Last night was my first official function as master of Walden Lodge. We had our annual officer's call at the Steak and Ale. With one exception (he and his family were out of town) all of my officer's were in attendance, along with the head of the charity committee. All in all there were 18 people. I was quite pleased with the turnout.

I gave them a quick overview of how I would like things to go next year and where I would like us to end up. We had a good meal, and some fine fellowship. I think we will have a very good year in 2006.

Merry Christmas!

Luke 2:6-12
...While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, ⁷and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. ...And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. ⁹An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. ¹⁰But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. ¹¹Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ^[a] the Lord.

And so begins the greatest story ever told.

I wish you and yours a Merry Christmas, and a joyous new year. God bless you all.

Yet another incredibly busy week has come and gone.

I am having Christmas sneak up on me this year. Normally I do my Christmas shopping and am finished before the week of Christmas. I am not one of those who is done before Thanksgiving, but I like getting it done and over with before Christmas Eve.

I have gotten the majority of my Christmas cards in the mail. Thanks to Christine, I am sending out some great ones this year!

I have scheduled out a busy week ahead. I will have to make some time for shopping in there somewhere as well.

More and more of the town is recovering from the ice storm and returning to normal. However, still quite a few homes and businesses are without power. I have seen several power trucks out and restoring power to neighborhoods, and am lucky that we didn't lose power.

This has been a very busy week.

I have had lots of work to do during the day, and then more to do at night, so time to update my blog was not really available.

Today has been busy as well. I met Jack and Scott (from Canada) at the office at 9:00 am and we went to Paris mountain to run a new trail there. Jack had run the trail before and was raving about it. I hate being cold and it was very cold this morning. We met at the office and it was 35 degrees. Luckily there wasn't much of a breeze blowing, so it was manageable.

The trail took us down to the lake and around it and Jack was right. The view was great. I did fine of the run down, but ran out of gas coming back up the hill. We came back up to a trailhead and started down the mountain for the last easy stretch of the run and made it down to the road. Jack told us that once we crossed the road, the trip back up the hill was the tough part.

His words couldn't have been more prophetic. We hadn't made it more than 10 yards into the woods when he went down hard. He had stepped on a rock and twisted his ankle. I could tell that he was in a tremendous amount of pain, and went to get the car and bring it back down.

I ran and walked up the mountain until a car came by and gave me a lift to the parking area, and drove back down to pick up Jack and Scott. We took Jack back to Greenville and left him in the care of the doctors. I'll call him later today to see what they had to say.

I have a very busy week ahead of me and had a busy weekend behind me.

I traveled to Columbia and Camden, SC on Saturday attending various Masonic meetings. I had a great time and met a number of very good people.

Sunday morning after church I put up my Christmas tree. I had intended to put up the outside lights as well, but it was pouring rain. Once I had the tree up and assembled, I realize that I didn't have any hangers for the bulbs. Not to worry, a "quick" trip to Wal-Mart would solve that problem. However, there is no such thing as a "quick" trip to Wal-Mart this time of year.

We had our annual Christmas party this year at the lodge with 20 or so children enjoying the refreshments and Santa made an appearance. I had the bright idea to video the event, but the battery on my cam corder was exhausted, so I doubt anything came out. I'll check to see, but I'm not holding out much hope.

Tonight is the annual Christmas party for our Toastmasters club. I'll have to leave it and head directly over to the lodge to see my last two officers installed.

This is going to be an incredibly busy week!

I have a full schedule and things are still coming in that need my attention. I'm doing better at telling folks no, and sticking with it, but some of these things are mine to do.

I will try to keep this site updated, but I wouldn't expect a lot of meaningful content for a while.

Sorry 'bout that.

The fun part of a long weekend: getting the small, annoying tasks done! One of which was starting on a new speech for Toastmasters.

The bad part of a long weekend: one of those tasks is cleaning the house. *sigh

That was most of what I did yesterday, clean. Clean, clean, and clean some more. But I did take a few breaks in there for other things, like getting some dog training done. Now that may sound like it was no fun, but then you've never had my dog. He was doing so good yesterday, I was truly impressed.

I've already had a busy morning today. I've taken Shadow on his usual walk at 6:30 (he let me sleep in, it is Sunday after all.) I've also gotten dinner started. I was in the grocery store yesterday evening, and decided to make some more spaghetti sauce. So I've started it in the slow cooker, since I won't be around to watch it on the stove. I'll be heading to church shortly, and then to the golf course immediately afterwards.

I still have numerous tasks to be done today, but they are all smaller items that shouldn't take too much time.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

I've just returned from Thanksgiving dinner with friends and had a great time. I had turkey, ham and all the trimmings. While I might pay for it later, it sure was good.

A short list of my reasons for thanks today:

Friends
Family
All of our men and women in uniform, whether it be a military uniform, law enforcement, or fire fighters. You make it possible by your service for me to enjoy this day.

God bless you all!

Yesterday was a very busy day at work. A number of customers didn't pay attention to the calendar and are going to be hard pressed to get their product in time this week. Most of the trucking companies are not running on Friday after Thanksgiving. A number of opportunities for new business called in yesterday. The industry as a whole is going through a tumultuous time. 2005 (and I believe 2006) will be long remembered in the industry, if not by the paintball players themselves.

We received some much needed rain yesterday, and the heaviest came last night. But since it rained all day, we got a good soaking. It has been weeks since we have had any meaningful rain.

A Dreary Sunday

I have had a very dreary Sunday. The weather has been very much typical of fall.

I have, however, managed to not only get my newsletter off, but I also finished the article for the Foothills Golden Retriever Rescue. The article may come back to me with some editing to do, but I got it off before my deadline of 21st.

I have those accomplishments to the good, and a loss by my Panthers to the bad. The team looked flat against Chicago, and deserved to lose. Hopefully they will take the lesson to heart and come out firing on all cylinders next week against Buffalo, before returning home to face Atlanta, who also lost.

The Microwave Generation

The weekend is here and it is going to be a busy one.

I have a meeting of the York Rite College at noon today, and I have to run the Inscriber system at church tomorrow, and that will last until noon. So it will feel like I really haven't had a weekend at all.

The more I read on the net, and see on tv, the more I'm convinced that we have become the microwave generation.

By that, I mean we want it NOW! We are not satisfied with waiting for lunch, it has to be now. We aren't happy with the speed of the internet, it must be faster. We want instant gratification is all phases of our life. This translates across everything that touches our lives, no matter how trivial, or how monumental.

Take Iraq for instance. In just a short span of time (in the eyes of history) we have achieved domination over a foe. We have removed the previous government and have squashed the armed forces of the country. Regardless of how you feel about our foray into Iraq, we are there. Now we have to fix what we've broken. But what are we already hearing? It's time to pull the troops out and go home. That is the wrong answer. Removing the troops before the government of Iraq has achieved stability is a recipe for revolution and civil war.

That doesn't take a PhD to understand and see coming. Yet people who should know better are still clamoring for the removal of the troops. Why? What motivates them? I feel that part of the answer is found in the microwave. We've become more and more used to having it our way, right now. Not a minute from now. Not an hour from now. Heaven forbid it be a year from now. No, it must be right now.

After reading this take a look around you. How many things do you use everyday that satisfies that need for instant gratification? Cell phones, e-mail, overnight delivery all are tools of the microwave generation. Try spending a week without those. Instead of calling someone on their
cell phone, visit with them. Before typing out an email, write them a letter. I'll be willing to bet you can't do it.

Today was a day eaten up by a 3 hour sales meeting first thing in the morning. That was preceded by having to clean up after the dog (vomit) at 4 am. *sigh. Great way to start the day and go into a sales meeting.

The Nanny State strikes again!

I was pointed to this article by Dr. Jerry Pournelle.

California once again leads the way in nannyism. They have enacted a law that on the surface, appears benevolent. Yet underneath that thin veneer lies corruption and abuse. The care of our elderly (with their numbers growing) is not one to be abdicated to the State. This is a matter that was (once) handled by the family and in their absence, neighbors and the local churches. Why do we think that the state can do a better job? This is the same bureaucratic nightmare that birthed the child welfare system and how well does that work?

The farther that we stray from communities the worse off we become. When we turn local matters over to the state, and state matters over to the Feds, we are on a slippery slope.

It's Official!

I'm impressed! The Greenville Track Club has already gotten the times posted from yesterday's race.

The official time is now 44:55. Now if that was a road race I wouldn't be as happy with that. But as my first trail race, I'm not too unhappy.

Woo Hoo! Go me!

Ok, I had a great Saturday morning! I let myself be talked into running the Paris Mountain trail run today (short loop) and finished strong. My unofficial time was 45:06 on a 3.96 mile cross country run. The time was good enough to take 4th in my age group. I guess it does pay to outlive other folks, huh?

I'll be interested in seeing what the official time. I feel good about my run, regardless of anything else. After running on Thursday night, and having a terrible run, I was pretty depressed about it. I needed to have a good run to pick my spirits up about running.

Thank you Veterans

The above title links to a copy of the poem "In Flanders Fields".

There is a whole generation who do not know the poem, nor the significance of the poppy. I did speak to a friend and colleague in Canada today. They are wearing their poppies, and at 11:00 a.m. ceased work and observed a moment of silence.

I would not be surprised to find just a few of the employees with whom I work even knew it was Veteran's day, let alone know what the poppy signified. Now to be honest, I didn't wear one today, and haven't in quite some time. And in case you didn't know, I am a veteran, and am proud to have served.

Ok, it's been cold. We've had frost. That's enough winter. Let's go back to summer, please.
I do not do cold very well. Not even a little bit. Cold is defined here at the Bar Tab Ranch as anything below 50.

Last night after work I went for a quick run. It's been a week since my last run and I could tell. I really need to be running more. But with the time change and the days getting shorter (not to mention colder) it is getting tough to find the time to run.

I have made it back safe and sound from my quick trip to Texas.

I had to fly down to a client in Ft Worth for a one hour meeting. Four hours plus of flight time total, and a day wasted for a one hour meeting that could have been accomplished via teleconference or a web conference. I understand that there are times for a face to face meeting but I am not sure this one qualifies.

I also somehow managed to get myself talked into doing the 4 mile trail run on Paris mountain on Saturday. I think I should update my last will and testament prior to the weekend.

A great weekend!

I had a good day yesterday, and finished off the weekend in style. I went and played golf today after church, and then went running this afternoon. While I did run two miles my time stunk. But I'm not going to be too down. I got out and had fun.

Shadow also had a good time today. We have gone on two walks and played with the Frisbee and with the ball.

Now I just have to get ready for the week ahead with travel and lots to do.

The day started early - especially for a weekend.

I was out of the door before 7:15 a.m. and on the road. I went to a different lodge this morning for a degree.

I came home for lunch around 1:30 and am currently doing laundry. *sigh. I hate doing that.

Awards Night at the Lodge

At last night's lodge meeting we had the annual awards night. Last night we gave out the 25 year pins, and 40 year life memberships.

We also had one 60 year member present. To give some perspective, you had to be 21 years old to join before that was changed two years ago. Walden Lodge was less than 40 years old when he joined. During his time in masonry, men landed on the moon. The LASER was invented (by a Greenville native no less). One king died, and one King had a dream. The television became the center piece of the family living room, replacing the radio. The front porch became smaller and neighborhoods less neighborly. McDonald's replaced the corner diner and the birth of the Burger King. Wars have happened, both hot and Cold. Tragedies and triumphs.

If I make it to 60 years old, that would be a triumph. 60 years as a mason? Nothing shy of a miracle.

I will write in my blog everyday. I will write in my blog every day. I will....

Ok, I've been pretty lazy about updating this lately. I'll go write 100 times on the chalkboard "I'll update my blog everyday." Do they even still have chalk boards in schools anymore, and do the teachers make the students write on them? Or would that hurt their self-esteem?

It was very chilly out this morning when I went to walk Shadow. I under dressed and regretted it! But we made it back to the house and played fetch in the pre-dawn light. Shadow was happy and it was really beautiful.

There is a blood drive at the lodge today, and I'd love to be able to go. However, we are short handed and I'll have to donate later.

I have been very lax about running this week. I have had appointments or meetings every night this week. My first real opportunity to run won't come until tomorrow, and I hate that. I need to get back out there and run, but there just hasn't been the time in the day to get it done. Maybe I really needed to break up the routine and start fresh? We'll see I suppose. I do miss the run though.

Halloween!

Well, I thought I would come home and go running.

OOPS! I forgot that it's Halloween and I have TONS of trick or treeters coming tonight! Shadow is going crazy and I'm giving out enough candy to keep the local dentists going until next year!

Loads of fun, and it's making me enjoy having the house that much more!

The Panthers Win

Well today was a great day!

I got to sleep in thanks to the government. I made it to church and then off to play golf.

I had a very good day on the course today and came home to watch my Carolina Panthers really play well against the Minnesota Vikings.

To top it all off, I believe God has answered my prayers today. I've had some issues hanging over my head and today He answered my prayers.

Spinx 5k Run

I've finally had time to slow down today.

This morning started with my usual morning walk with Shadow. Just slightly over a mile and it was in the 30's!

After getting him settled, I changed clothes and headed downtown to run in the Run Fest downtown. This was my second 5k run, and it was a very brisk morning. I was a little worried about my performance, but I did just fine. However, I did have to come back to the house to pick up my runners number. In my haste to leave, I forgot it on the kitchen counter.

My unofficial time was 29:05. I am hoping that it was a little better than that, although I can't be too disappointed. My goal was 30 minutes and I managed to shave 2 full minutes off of my first 5k time. My work is starting to pay off!

While I was getting ready for the run, I found this passage and while it is out of context, it fit.
Hebrews 12:1 ...run with perseverance the race marked before us. (NIV)

I also took the time to take Shadow up to the Foothills Golden Retriever Rescue's reunion in Paris Mountain State Park. There were a ton of dogs there and he had a blast. He was properly scolded for running away, and then loved on for being such a good dog. He was in heaven!

A New Week Dawns

Ok, it doesn't quite dawn just yet, but it's not that far off.

Concerning the riots in Toledo and the Neo-nutsies.

The constitution acknowledges our right to free speech and freedom of association. Because that is so valuable a right, we must occasionally suffer through the silly utterances of fools. No matter how hateful that speech might be, no matter how foolish the ideas espoused, it is still their right to speak.

Those who bear the brunt of the neo-nutsies hate have every right to rebut their foolishness. By doing so however, you give legitimacy to the hate. The better play may have been to completely ignore them. The sum total of those spewing the filth was less than 30 (24 was the number I saw most). If that is the best that they can do, turning a deaf ear and blind eye to them would hasten their retreat into the dark and dusty corner of history where they belong. That is the hard road. That is the road less traveled.

The road that was traveled by some of the protesters puts a black eye on the whole sorry episode. Riots, looting and mayhem do not do their cause any good. Pelting ambulances with stones is not the path upon which they should have gone. More harm came to that community through the actions of a foolish few than from the hate filled speech of a tiny group of white supremacist.

Two entries, and both on the run.

I really didn't intend for this to be blog on running, but both of these posts are on running.

The circuit I run is 2 miles in length, with 3 good hills for variety. Tonight, rather than follow the program, I decided to break it up and just run the full 2 miles. My time wasn't exactly stellar (20 min), but with the difficulty of the hills I'm not really displeased.

I have had such a bad time this week with time. I was quite sure that the 5k run was this Saturday, but it is the 29th. Then for some unknown reason, I was convinced that today was Thursday. I'm really not sure where that came from either.

I have some thoughts on the riots in Toledo, OH. I will try to get them organized and up by tomorrow. The quick down and dirty is this however. Why, rather than give the Neo-idiots their due and just ignore them, were they confronted? By confronting them, you give them and their foolish ideas credence.

Yippee!

Do you remember that feeling as a kid when you got up early on Christmas morning, and peeked into the living room at the presents? You knew you couldn't open them yet, but you were too excited to go back to sleep? You saw that Santa had brought the new bike, and you were dying to go take it out and feel the wind flying in your hair?

Well, I had that feeling tonight. I am starting week seven of my run program. I was just about done, and could feel my body take over and go on automatic. I could feel my legs just piston up and down and my arms pump back and forth. My breathing was on auto-pilot, and my heart rate was up but as steady as a metronome. I know I'm not quite where I want to be yet, but I can see and feel the progress.

I finished my run and then took Shadow on his mile and a half walk. That made my total time just over 90 minutes of exercise, and I feel good. I will probably feel this tomorrow, but for now I am going to enjoy it.

Things are retaining to normal

Things in the household are finally returning to a normal routine. Shadow and I went out for our morning walk this morning. It was a bit cooler today than it has been, but that felt good.

We also got to play in the yard with his ball, and then do some training in the house. Now I'm in the middle of a laundry cycle. Normalcy and boring tasks never felt so good.

The Prodigal Pup

What was lost has been found! The prodigal pup has returned!

I had just left the Greenville Humane society and was headed to the lodge when I got the call. A family that lives on the street behind me had found Shadow. He had gotten tangled up between two trees with his leash and was waiting on me to come to the rescue.

Because he was found less than 10 yards from the families dog pen, and his good condition, I would suspect that he had been there less than 12 hours.

To all of you who supported me with your prayers and thoughts, my (and Shadow's) thanks somehow just seem to fall short. I have missed my four footed poop monster very much, and am overjoyed at his safe return.

Thank you , thank you, thank you one and all!

Shadow the Prodigal Son

Well, it's day 5, and still no Shadow. However, I've sent out a number of emails, and there are some very wonderful people out there who have heard my call and are helping in numerous ways. I feel truly blessed to have their help.

This does remind me though of the parable of the prodigal son, and his return. I guess when Shadow comes back, I'll have to serve up the fatted cat for him.

Still no Shadow

I took more time this weekend to search for Shadow and no luck. Friends came by to help with the search and they like wise had no luck.

I had to take some time yesterday for myself and get away from the house. I went to church and then to play golf. I felt so guilty afterwards that it almost wasn't worth it. I know I shouldn't feel that way, but I did. I just feel that if I'm not out looking for him 24/7, I'm letting him down. I've gone a quit on him. But I just don't know where else to turn. I've looked, posted flyers (still more to do) and brought in extra pairs of eyes. There still has been no luck in finding him. I just need to keep faith that he will come home safe and sound.

The Sun has Gone and Stolen my Shadow

Late last night I was letting Shadow outside so he could do his business. His leash (20' trainer) became entangled around the grill and dumped it. This panicked him and he took off. I searched in the rain last night for an hour and a half, and spent another hour and a half first thing this morning looking to no avail.

With the assistance of 4 wonderful people we searched for over 3 and a half hours for him, and still no success. With all the rain, I suspect that he has gone to ground. I have put out flyers and even the Fountain Inn police are on the lookout.

A quick word to that. While searching today, I stopped a passing patrolman. I gave him the flyer with Shadow's description, my phone number and Shadow's picture. He called before changing shifts, and asked if Shadow had been found. When I told him no, he told me he would be sure to pass along the flyer to the oncoming shift. I know that they have lots of things on their plate, but the kindness shown will not be forgotten. Promises made, are promises kept.

I can not properly express my thanks to ALL those who have helped me search for my best friend. From the folks at FHGRR, to the mailman, and the local UPS driver, all have expressed their sympathy, and support. This is an incredibly trying time, but the burden is much easier to bear with the help of all of you. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

It's Hump Day!

It's hump day and I'm on a back-slide to the weekend!

I've had a productive week thus far and business looks like it is starting to increase.

In case you've missed it, my second article for the Foot Hills Golden Retriever Rescue group is online now. It turned out rather well, if I do say so myself.

Now I have to concentrate on getting my monthly newsletter together and writing an article for the November issue of the lodge's newsletter. It's not due until the 12th, but that is just around the corner.

This weekend will be spent getting my speech ready for Tuesday's Toastmaster's meeting. I have it outlined and the opening written. Now I just have to get my timing down and give it some polish.

If You're Going to Florida, Be Nice!

The Gun Grabbers are at it again, this time in Florida. They are disseminating their fear tracts to put the pressure on Florida's lawmakers. If they can't make their argument against the personal ownership of firearms, they will try to scare them into capitulation of their rights. I'm surprised not to find references to global warming, social security, and health care in there as well. All three are the stock in trade for them.

While I am not an expert in the law, I found nothing in there that gives anyone the indiscriminate right to blaze away without fear of prosecution. It does say you may stand your ground if you are threatened with bodily harm. It says, that you own the patch of ground you're standing on, and retreat is not necessary.

That's a good thing, and here's why. Turning your back on danger is never a good idea (unless you are a Pierson's Puppeteer, of course). Once someone has escalated a situation where a reasonable person would fear for his life, self defense is justifiable.

Hopefully the lawmakers in Florida will stand their ground as well. I suspect they will.

I Finished!

Ok, I'm back and cleaned up from my first 5k race. The race was here in Fountain Inn, SC and was to benefit the Laurens Hope foundation. While the world record is safely intact, I did manage to finish in a respectable 31:15. That's rather unofficial, and a little long, as I didn't stop my watch until I was far past the finish line, but that's ok too. I'll be looking for my time on the site later, as I had a timing chip on my shoe.

Now I have a time to beat at the end of the month at the Greenville 5k. My goal for this one was simple: sub-36 minutes, and I was happy. I turned the first mile in 9 minutes flat, and the second at 19:00. However, right after the 2 mile mark was a HUGE and very long uphill run, and that about killed me.

Well, I'm off for now to take care of some things for the house. More later.

48 Hours and Counting!

I have two days left until the first 5k run. It seems really weird on my off run days to have some time before I have to get ready for work. On my run days, I finish with just enough time to shove some breakfast down my neck and get ready for work. Of course, that includes taking Shadow for his morning walk before I begin my run.

I am watching the series Lost on ABC. I became truly hooked by the series last season, and have not been disappointed by it this season. I recorded Invasion, and plan to watch it tonight. The first episode looked pretty good, so I'll give it a try. I don't watch that much TV, but I am very happy with Charter's DVR system. If you have it available in your area, it is worth the extra few dollars. Being able to record the shows I want to see, and watch them at my leisure, without having to worry about VCR tapes, etc. is very nice.

I am also looking forward to the opening weekend of Serenity. It is a movie based on a TV show that Fox cancelled called Firefly. SCI-FI channel has been running the series, and it's one of the better ones, in my opinion. Too bad it didn't make it for Fox.

Training Continues.

The training for the 5k on Saturday continues. Yesterday's run went very well.

Today I have gotten a touch closer to getting the house re-financed. I've gotten the paperwork done and had the house appraised. Now it's just a waiting game. If I get this done and the closing happens next week, it should save me quite a bit of cash, and take one more thing off of my plate.

It's the end of the weekend.

It's the end of my weekend and a very busy week coming up for me. I've managed to get some things done here at the house, but not all I needed to do.

My Panthers managed to lose to the Dolphins, but I did manage to get in 27 holes of golf today. At least I managed to get some exercise in, so I don't feel like a huge slug.

Week Three is Done!

I've finished my run this morning and that brings to close week three. I'm fighting and clawing, but I'm getting it done.

If I can get on track today, I will still have a ton of things that must be done today. Included in that list of things is to come home for lunch today. I won't be home until late tonight because of the York Rite degree work, so I need to make it home for lunch.

I'm going to keep this one short but look for more this weekend.

Remember to keep the Texas and Louisiana folks in your prayers today.

Lost

Well last night was the premiere of the new season of Lost. I really got to like this show last year, and have been looking forward to it for some time. The show did not disappoint. They picked right up where they left off last year and kept the story line flowing.

I also recorded the first episode of Invasion, which follows Lost. I'll get a chance to see it tonight I hope. I was just too wiped out to stay up too late last night.

I see Rita is now a category 5 hurricane and bearing down of the Houston area. We have a warehouse there and they are getting it ready to evacuate. They should be gone by today, and be out of harms way. Now we'll see if Houston residents learned anything from the New Orleans refugees among them and don't stick around, but heed the warnings and leave. I truly feel sorry for those New Orleans refugees that are in the Houston area. They just can't seem to catch a break.

Fall is here!

Well it's the first day of fall, and I have just gotten back from my morning run. It is a little cooler out there this morning but still feels more like summer than fall.

I committed yesterday to running a 5k race on Oct 1st here in Fountain Inn. This will be my first test to see how far along I am in my program. I will have been running for a month. I don't expect to finish in first, but I do expect to finish. It will also give me a benchmark to evaluate my performance at the 5k race at the end of the month.

I'm really hoping to dig myself out from under the mountain of mail and "stuff" that has accumulated during my absence. I'm not sure which will come first, the end of the stuff, or the end of the week. Somehow I think it will be the end of the week.

A story that bears watching

I have just seen this (it may be old news to some) but it is a story that bears watching closely.

I Beat the Monster!

Well, in a manner of speaking.

I went for my run tonight and pushed through the doubts and pain and finished. That's the "Monster" that creeps up on you when you're running. It whispers in your ear how hard it is, how you can't make it, how long you've run, etc. Well tonight I was beset by him and managed to push him away and finish my run! It's a minor victory in the grand scheme of things, but it's got me stoked!

I also have another monkey off of my back. I went to jury duty today and did not get selected. Since they only had a couple of cases that would go to trial this week, I was released. That means I have the rest of the week to get to work and get out from under the mountain that is there waiting on me. That's a whole 'nother monster!

But on the bright side, I have my dog home with me and he's lying in his usual place on the floor of the living room. It's really nice to have him home. Once again, thank you to Jeannie and Norm for keeping him for me!

Home Sweet Home!

I finally made it home last night around midnight, after driving back from Charlotte.

Now I'm off to go pick up my car, drop off the rental, and get some breakfast before reporting for jury duty. With any luck at all, I'll be released by noon and I'll take off for North Carolina to pick up Shadow.

I promise to try to get in my run this evening (I was just too worn out this morning), and catch up more on here as well. I have a couple of photos of the booth and such, if I can get them posted.

Last Day in Reno

Well today is my last day in Reno. I have a 2:00 pm flight to Dallas and then a connecting flight to Greenville. I should be home tonight if all goes well.

The trade show ended yesterday, and although there weren't a ton of orders, I made a number of good contacts.

I have lots to do, but will try to update this later, as time permits.

Reno and home sweet home

I am in the Reno/Sparks Convention Center writing this during a lull in the World Wide Distribution Trade show. There are several wireless networks around but the all seem to be peer to peer and none I can use to get to the net with. *sigh.

I completed day two of week two this morning on my run program. It was (for me) a very cold morning with the temperatures down in the mid to low forties. That’s the coldest I have been in quite some time. But at least I wasn’t sweating too much during my run.

I have a lot of homework to get to tonight from the show, and that will keep me busy for some time. I’ve already made some good contacts, although the orders are slow in coming. I’m putting together the notes from both shows so I can write them up when I get home.

Reno NV or bust

Well I managed to make it to Reno, NV without too much drama. The only hiccup came at the baggage claim station. Apparently Reno is short on baggage handlers and it took an eternity to get my bags. All that, and I'm still fighting my sinuses. What's a poor boy to do?

Oh well, I can hope that the dry air here will help settle them down. I won't say much for La Quinta hotels however. They advertise high speed internet, but only in the first floor rooms. So to get it I had to move to a smoking room. I suppose that's the price I'll have to pay this time, but I suspect that this will be the last time I book a hotel with them.

Day one at the NBS trade show

Well two things ended today: week one in my running program and day one at the trade show.

The run along the Trinity River is really nice. Now if I can just remember that as the run times increase!

Day one of the trade show is in the bag as well. It was a short day in the booth, but seemed to go on forever. Tomorrow will be longer, but should pass quickly.

Ft Worth Here I Come!

Well, I’ve made it through the TSA gauntlet and am sitting in the terminal waiting for my flight. There is no wireless access here in Greenville, so I will have to wait until I get to the hotel to actually post this. I’m expecting a smooth flight and easy trip to Dallas.

I see that the mayor of New Orleans has finally decided that forced evacuations are a good idea. Too bad he didn’t implement that before the hurricane. I’m sure that some folks would not have wanted to leave no matter what. But he could easily have packed up the metro and school busses with those who wanted to leave and have that many fewer evacuees to contend with now. I also see that calling them refugees has become politically incorrect. Now I know that the term now reflects those fleeing a war, but its’ deeper meaning is to those seeking refuge, or a safe haven, and does that not fit in this case? I certainly wouldn’t care what term you used to describe me were I in that situation. The relief from it would be far more important than any label used.

On a purely personal note, I took Shadow to North Carolina last night to spend the ten days or so that I’m gone with his former foster family. He fit right back into the environment, and look very happy to be there. That is one less thing that I will have to worry about now, and I’m very glad that they agreed to “foster” him again. Norm and Jeannie, you’re wonderful!

Well, I made it safe and sound to the hotel. I’ll unpack and get settled in before meeting Bill Jones for dinner and a quick strategy session.

Short and Sweet.

Tonight's my last full night with Shadow before leaving on my trip, so I'll be spending some quality time with my four footed poop monster. Tonight will be short and sweet.

I know it's been a stressful time in New Orleans, but has anyone listened to the mayor speak? I'm amazed that he was elected to that position. I'd love to have seen his campaign.

An Open Letter to President Bush

I've read and re-read the open letter to President Bush posted on Michael Moore's website.

If I found the man amusing before, I find his latest diatribe nauseating. He sits on his throne built on lies and spews forth his venom. I am glad that he has the freedom to post worthless dribble such as this but his manner of doing so leaves a lot to be desired.

Here are some excerpts from the letter:

"I especially like how, the day after the hurricane, instead of flying to Louisiana..."
What exactly does Mr Moore expect the president to be able to do in Louisiana that he couldn't do better and more efficiently elsewhere? Especially anywhere else that has power? Would his presence on the ground (along with the security incumbent with the office) have helped matters in the opening hours of the crisis? I hardly think so, and surely Mr Moore isn't dumb enough to think so either. He just wants his readers to be dumb enough to think that that is the case. Shame on you Mr Moore!

"And don't listen to those who, in the coming days, will reveal how you specifically reduced the Army Corps of Engineers' budget for New Orleans this summer for the third year in a row. You just tell them that even if you hadn't cut the money to fix those levees..."

Now it's also this President's fault that the levees were not high enough? I think I've addressed that issue earlier, but just for the record: at least 8 previous administrations, Republican and Democrat, had similar opportunities in my lifetime.

"No, Mr. Bush, you just stay the course. It's not your fault that 30 percent of New Orleans lives in poverty or that tens of thousands had no transportation to get out of town. C'mon, they're black! I mean, it's not like this happened to Kennebunkport. Can you imagine leaving white people on their roofs for five days? Don't make me laugh! Race has nothing -- NOTHING -- to do with this!"

But the most viscous and low of all was his playing the race card at the end. Despite his veiled attempt at sarcasm, he wants us to think that race is the issue here. Michael Moore, that reaches a new low, even for you. So please, stay in south Florida, but don't try to paint this presidency with the tar of racism. That is beneath you sir.

Vacation's Over

A friend of mine sent me the open letter to President Bush on Miichael Moore's website. I am going to re-read the letter and put my comment up later today. It is worth reading and thinking about. Now I'm not agreeing with what he says, but it does bear reading.

Happy Labor Day!

It's the final day of the long weekend, and I have a short week at the office in front of me.

So far the weekend has sped along at a rapid clip. Saturday was spent at Earth Fare with Foothills Golden retriever Rescue. There were a number of goldens there and several were adopted.
Sunday I played a round of golf and then went to take Mark his birthday present. He turned the ripe old age of 7, and loved the Hot Wheels car I got him. We had a wonderful time and it's always good to see her and her family. They've become a part of my family and I enjoy spending time with them.

Today's a busy day for me. Lots of housekeeping items that need to get accomplished and small things that need doing before I leave for my two city, two trade show Odyssey. Luckily for me, Shadows foster parents are excited about keeping him while I'm gone. That is so great of them, and takes a load off of my mind.

Everyone's Just Fine!

I've just gotten off of the phone with my familiy in Mississippi. They are fine, and weathering the storm as well as can be expected. There is some physical damage to barns and what not, but no damage to the people and that's what matters. We can replace things, but folks are harder to come by.

To those of you who had them in your prayers, my thanks. Please continue to keep praying for them for while they are fine now, this is not quite over yet.

It's a sad state of affairs

I've had to turn on the word verification feature for comments to my blog. I am sorry for the inconvenience, however it has become necessary. Already I've had one offer for a weight loss drug (and truly not needed) and another that appeared to be for computer repair. Although the second one I'm not as sure about. If it was a legitimate comment, then I am sorry to have deleted it, however the link you added appeared dead or otherwise not working.

The Nation

I posted this yesterday. I've got some time now to comment of this article, in some depth.

First off this is nothing more than a poor attempt at "gotcha" politics. This is the first article I've read by David Corn, so I can't comment on him, only this one article. However it is truly "gotcha politics". Now to be fair both sides engage in it, and both are equally wrong.

New Orleans has been below the water table for a heck of a lot longer than the Bush presidency (either one). To accuse him or his administration of being asleep at the switch is sheer folly. Numerous administrations, federal and state, have had the opportunity and means to heighten the walls of the levies. All have for one reason or another, chosen not to do so. Mostly, I suspect, they were gambling that the big one wouldn't hit, or bring as big a punch as it has. Very similar to the same way that folks are gambling that a large earthquake centered on the San Andreas fault line in California won't happen, and for much the same reasons. Economics. It is cheaper to do nothing than prepare for a one in a million shot. It is unfortunate, but none the less true. There are some things (Acts of God) that you just can not plan for, nor anticipate it's severity. You can game plan until you're blue in the face, but once the worst happens you do the best you can with what you have at the time.

I suspect that Mr. Corn has never been through a hurricane, nor seen first hand what it leaves in its passing. Roads are blocked, power lines down, streets flooded and general chaos. These I've seen first hand. Those that await the government to help them will wait. Those that help themselves and neighbors will fare far better. By helping themselves, I do not advocate (as Mr Corn does) looting the shops of your neighbors. That is abhorrent. To advocate such is nothing less than despicable.

Aid is coming into the region as fast as it is able. However, the wheels of the federal government grind slow.

Mr Corn's accusations are neither welcome nor timely. His tone is shrill and his message poor. The one thing I will say for him is that his call to give is indeed true. Please donate to the Red Cross as they are the best hope to get relief to those who need it quickest and best. There are other relief agencies out there. Visit FEMA for a list of organizations and please dig deep.

God Bless the United States, and may His mercy fall on those in need.

Pot shots

I don't have the time to properly comment on this but please take a moment to read this .

Now the game of "gotcha" has truly begun.

News from Home

I have posted the link above to the newspaper for the town just south of where I lived as a child. The stories there are some that make me proud. The story of the men banding together and clearing the roadways of trees and meeting the power companies coming the other way are what make me proud to say I'm from Mississippi. Not tales of waiting on someone else to help them. They got out and did the job themselves. That is what we as a society need to see on a daily basis. The government can help, but things will go quicker if we help ourselves.

Hurray to my fellow Mississippians. I am truly proud to be one of you! God Bless and keep you safe one and all.

Looting

Listening to the reports coming out of New Orleans, and Biloxi, I wonder how long it will be before we hear reports of looters shot on sight.

The National Guard and police forces are stretched thin, and will be tasked with even more over the coming days. If a complete evacuation of the city is indeed ordered as seems likely, what to do with the scum of humanity who stay behind? Looters are nothing more than that. They prey upon those already visited with tragedy. I would not be surprised to hear of a young National Guard troop (or police officer) shooting looters who later turned out to be unarmed.

Yet there are reports now of looters in New Orleans firing upon the police. That is a very bad idea on their part. Once the National Guard's role switches from rescue to restoring order, the looters will find out just how bad an idea that really is indeed. I don't have the numbers in front of me now, but I'm pretty sure that among the National Guard are a large number of combat veteran troops from service in Iraq and Afghanistan who will have little pity on them. Shooting at a cop is one thing, but shooting at a combat hardened trooper is quite another.

This is indeed an epic moment in our nation's history. As we witness the events unfolding now, I wonder how the younger generation views this? Do they grasp the importance of what is happening? I must confess I am watching and taking it all in, but do not yet have a complete grasp of the whole thing yet. That type of reflection is best done after the thing, not during.

Katrina has come and now it's time to pick up the pieces.

Camille part 2 is appearing to be an understatement. To the best of my knowledge, a city the size of New Orleans has never been evacuated in our short history.

I still am hearing the same thing from people who don't understand the problem. Yes, President Bush has released some of the oil from our strategic reserves. That's a wonderful gesture, but still nothing more than that. The oil still needs to be refined and it's the refineries that were at the heart of the bottleneck before Katrina. OPEC could triple production, and line up tankers 25 deep at our ports, but without the refining capability, it won't have any real effect on supply.

Until more money is put into refining capabilities, we will see this issue time and time again. The problem is that it is not economically feasible to bring more refineries online now. Until the government makes it easier to build them, the oil companies will keep things as they are now. One of President Bush's initiatives was to take some of the military bases that are being closed and put refineries on them. That to me sounds like a workable idea.

Bill Gates 3 Me 0

Well, I'm still having issues with Outlook. I spent some time yesterday in three different live chat sessions with Franklin Covey technicians. I have to say that they were very helpful. They've given me some things to try and we'll have to see if that will solve the problems. Hopefully it will do the trick

Camille Part 2?

I'm listening to the news and it's sounding more and more like the hardest hit areas are once again the Biloxi/Gulfport area. This was the same area that was hammered in 1969 by Camille. To give some perspective on that (and why everyone compares the two), you could still see scaring from Camille in 1984.

Now, I have to say I'm not going to shed a tear at the loss of the casinos. Out of all the places in the United States to have gambling, Mississippi was the last place I would have expected to see it. I know that there is some history with the riverboat gambling. It still had me scratching my head at it's appearance there however. I will not stand on a soap box and preach the evils of gambling. I think that if you want to gamble away your life, be my guest. I was surprised to see it in my home state.

I don't think trying to call my friends and family in Jones County will do any good, as I doubt that there are phone lines, nor power available. I will keep them in my prayers, and try to contact them tomorrow.

Irony, thy name is Rap

I just can't let this one go! The irony of this is just beyond belief.
Let's see how this goes. A Rap mogul (whatever that's supposed to mean) is shot at an MTV awards party.

Katrina is Coming!

It's hurricane season and a storm that appears to dwarf Camille of 69 is bearing down on the Gulf coast. My prayers are with my family. While most of my family is inland from the coast, they will still feel the fury of Katrina. Being in a rural environment, you learn to be somewhat self-sufficient, but it is still not an easy thing to endure.

Batten down the hatches folks, and God Speed.

A weekend to Relax.

It's a wonderful Sunday morning. It's remained cool in the mornings and that makes my morning walk with Shadow that much more enjoyable.

Yesterday was a rather busy day, but not super productive. I enjoyed some relaxing, and played a little golf. I will have to get some things done here today, but those are all minor things that won't take up too much time. They are mostly small projects that have been shuffled to the bottom of the stack for a while now. It seems that there are an endless line of them, all clamoring for my attention.

I have several things I need to write about here, not the least of which is the Able Danger story. I see a lot of Monday Morning Quarterbacking going on by people who should know better. I'll try to gather my thoughts together and put something up on that later today.

Meanwhile, it's back to the coffee pot, and see if I can find some breakfast here.

TGIF!!!

It's been a long and challenging week here at the Bar Tab Ranch. For those of you unfamiliar with that, that is the name I've given my house (a ranch style house...get it?). That's also the title of my monthly newsletter that I send to friends and family.

While it has been challenging, it has also been productive. I've managed to turn some true problems into wonderful opportunities, and (hopefully if I did it right) add more business. Of course I will also have to sacrifice some much needed r&r to land some of it, but that is the price that will have to be paid. *sigh

One of my goals for the weekend is to (hopefully) put the Outlook problem to rest. The task folder within Outlook is not operating correctly and it's driving me up the wall. If the weather is going to be as bad as it looks, that will give me the opportunity to work on fixing it. Just the way I really wanted to spend my weekend.

It's a backslide to the weekend!

It's Wednesday, and I'm backsliding to the weekend!

The question of the day is: Should the government be able to take your land through eminent domain for a shopping mall? How about a condo complex?

My answer is a resounding NO! If the government pays a fair price for land that is then used for a roadway, or public infrastructure, that's all well and good. However, to abuse it's powers to turn that property over to developers smells to high heaven. I can think of no rational explanation for allowing this to happen, and how the court system can justify this greed is beyond me.

UGH!

Well, I am still battling Outlook for supremacy, and it is winning the battle. Add to that a sinus flare-up, and a jury summons, and you have the makings of a great day.


I was having problems with Outlook doubling tasks when I synchronized my Palm Pilot. I have since settled that issue, but now I am having troubles with the task folder itself. I am battling hard, but Bill Gates is a tough opponent.

A Pooped Poop Monster

I didn't think I'd get a chance to post tonight, with the thunderstorms in the area. However, it seems like they are splitting up and going to the east and west of me. I can still hear the thunder but it is much more distant now.

I have my four-footed poop monster back! Of course, as soon as I went to pick him up, it started to rain. It couldn't have waited just 10 more minutes. sigh.

One of the things I brought back from Canada were two road hockey balls. Shadow loves the thing. He chased the ball until he was pooped, and he's now napping in the living room. Thanks Christine for the tip, and thanks to Scott for picking them up for me!

Oh Canada!

Well the trip to and from Canada is almost over. Now all I have to do is get some house cleaning done on the notes from the meeting yesterday. Since my plane doesn't leave until 2:00 p.m. that shouldn't be a problem.

While there is high speed wireless access here in the hotel lobby and they advertise high speed in the rooms I couldn't find it. Anyway, I came in very late both Thursday and Friday nights, and just didn't feel up to trekking down to the lobby to check emails and update this thing.

It was a very productive meeting, but I'm still not convinced we couldn't do the whole thing over a web conference. The bonus was I got a chance to see the plant and the operations side of the house and the new product coming off of the machines looks really good. We should be able to gain some in roads to new customers with it, and that's the name of the game.

I have to see if I can find a post card for Christina. I didn't find one yesterday while I was in Canada (no time to look), so I'll see if I can find one today and send it out.

The flights from Greenville to Dulles and Dulles to Detroit were uneventful, and Independence Air was a good choice of airlines. The only downside was the terminal in dulles. It was not up to the usual standards I would expect at Dulles. I'm not sure why but it in terrible shape.
The bus driver for Avis was another bright spot. He was very courteous and helpful and that is worth writing Avis about. Signing on for the Avis preferred membership was probably one of the best travel decisions I've made. I have been a member for a number of years now, and being able to bypass the counter and go straight to my vehicle (or in this case have the bus drop me off in front of it) sure makes the process smoother.

'twas the night before Canada

I'm getting things ready to leave for Canada tomorrow. As usual, I'm sure I'll be overpacking for the trip. I'm not sure I have it in me to pack lightly. I tend to pack for too many different scenarios.

You would think that I would have it down to a science. In a way I do, but since I'm taking my golf clubs, it makes no difference now. I'm going to have to check a bag anyway, so there's nothing to be gained by packing any more lightly.

Mondays and Mall Hell

Monday's come and Monday's go, but today seemed like it would never end. I managed to accomplish a number of things at the office but even so, it just seemed to drag on and on.

I ventured into the mall tonight for new dress shoes. There were so many new stores and stores that had changed I almost didn't recognize the place. I don't visit the mall that often anymore and when I do, it's get in and out as quickly as I can. I guess shopping just isn't my thing. But I did manage to get the shoes I was looking for, so mission accomplished.

The scores have been posted!

Well I've sent out my monthly newsletter tonight. It wasn't as long nor as involved as it usually is, mainly because I keep this so well up to date. I might think about discontinuing the newsletter for this, but haven't decided that's the way I'd like to go yet.

I went to the par-3 golf course today after lunch and before the meeting at church to work on my irons and short game. I couldn't believe how hot it was out there. I must have sweated out a gallon of water on the course. But I managed to accomplish what I had set out as my goal, so I can't complain too much I suppose.

The meeting at the church went well. Pastor Perry Duggar explained the problems the church had been facing and the steps that they were taking to correct them. While I still have a few questions, I will save them for the leadership committee.

I will be traveling on Thursday of this week to Canada on business. I should be home by Saturday evening, so it's just a quick up and back event. I will get a chance to view the plant and see the operations, something I've been very anxious to do.

Yo-yo

Yesterday was a day of both ups and downs, like a yo-yo.

It started with a great day of golf at Furman University. I played in the Keller-Williams tournament there. After my horrible outing at Southern Oaks at the end of July, I considered taking the rest of the tournament season off. But through perseverance and the help of some friends (and a good practice round at Carolina Springs on Thursday) I decided to play. While I didn't win, I played up to my potential. Except for one stumble coming home I would have had a shot at winning.

Then came the low. I knew I would have a tough time making it home by the start of the fantasy draft anyway, but with a rain delay during the tournament I didn't leave the course until almost 7:00 p.m. When I got home the draft was already well underway and cruising. Then I started having internet troubles as well. The end result was I managed to draft one player out of 14 and the computer chose the other 13. And to tell the truth, I didn't really want to draft the one player I did. Well, now it will be up to trades and good management of the team and see who's available to acquire off of waivers.

I suppose of that's the worst thing that happens to me this weekend, I really shouldn't complain. It was disappointing but it certainly isn't fatal. I'll just have to manage the pants off of the team I have.

Tight Schedules

The weekend has arrived!

Normally I will send out my newsletter on the 12th of the month. But as I have a busy weekend coming up, I will wait until Sunday night.

I will have a very tight schedule tomorrow. I have to be at the tournament by 12:00 or so, and then back here at the house no later than 7:00 p.m. if not before. The fantasy draft begins at seven, so the quicker I can get home the better.

I have been very lax this week updating this, but hopefully can do better on the weekend.

Two down, and one to go

Well the article for the FHGRR newsletter is off with the additional paragraphs. You should be able to see it here shortly.

I have also finished the Plumb Line article. I will post that link when I'm sure that the link is functional again.

That's two down, and one to go. Tonight I'll finish up my newsletter, and get it out to everyone.

Now for a nice relaxing weekend. If only my weekend would be relaxing this time. I have several things to do and more that really need to get done. Someone need to sell a weekend stretcher!

Short Shrift

I'm afraid this post will have to be short and succinct. We have the pesky thunderstorms hanging about again, and this time of year they are quick, violent and quite electrifying.

I've started working on my next speech for Toastmasters, and hope to have a good rough outline done tonight. I have the opening written and now need to flesh out the body and conclusion.

I have also been asked to add a paragraph or two to my article for the FHGRR newsletter. I will have to put my thinking cap back on, and see if I can bang out another couple tonight.

Somewhere in here I also have to update my newsletter to friends and family, write an article for the Plumb Line and get some practice in for this weekends golf tournament. There is no rest for the righteous I suppose.

Frustration

Frustration has begun to set in with me. I am having troubles synchronizing my hand held these days. It seems to be taking forever, and it's becoming annoying. I'm going to have to look into it deeper, but there just doesn't seem to be enough time. *sigh.

I see the NCAA has decided to weigh in on what a university can and can not name it's sports mascot. While I agree with groups who feel that they are offended by the name to protest and get a university to change it's wicked ways, what does the NCAA have to do with it? They have far more pressing issues that should come under their care. Gambling on sports, underage drinking, alumni shenanigans, these are all grist for the mill. But the FSU Seminoles? That's just a little too much of a stretch for me.

Big Corporate Culture

You have to love big corporate culture. Today I was saddled with a consultant who looked over my shoulder all day while I worked. Now I will withhold judgment until I hear his report, but why would you send a consultant to look over sales who doesn't have a sales background? It surely doesn't make a lot of sense to me. But I'm willing to give it the benefit of the doubt.

But on a brighter note, I'm listening to the pre-season, pre-game shows! It's not for real yet, but at least I can say the Panther's are undefeated!

This has been a very busy weekend for me. I went yesterday to the movies, and did some shopping. Now shopping isn't my favorite thing to do, but it must be done. As it was also a tax-free weekend that made it an even better time to get some necessary shopping done.

I went with a friend to see Tim Burton's new take on an older tale. Charlie and the Chocolate factory was on, and we decided to give it a go. Now, I have to say I enjoyed myself, but what is it with Tim Burton and skeletons? They appear either subtly or overtly in all of his movies. The movie is recommended to you.

I have also written my article for inclusion in the Foothills Golden Retriever Rescue's bi-monthly newsletter. You can see the previous one here. This article is not quite as long as my first, but hopefully it will be as well received. Now that I have completed that task, I can turn my attention to my monthly newsletter, and an article for inclusion in the Plumb Line both of which are due this week.

Hurray for the weekend!

It's the weekend, and it couldn't have come sooner.


So the democratic bulldog (and some say hatchetman) James Carvelle got the better of Robert Novak. That's really unfortunate. I've watched James Carvelle in action on a number of occasions, He is a very intelligent man, who uses his knowlege of his opponent's weaknesses to his advantage better than most. The only person who can top him on a regular basis is his wife. Those two are fun to watch go at it.

I am headed to a fund raiser this morning with Shadow. Foothills Golden Retriever Rescue does this the first Saturday of every month. We went to our first one last month, and Shadow had a great time with all the people and dogs around, so we're going again. He's such a ham! He never misses a chance to be petted and fawned over.

Last night I had an old friend come into town for dinner. I haven't seen her in a couple of years, so it was a great chance to catch up on each other's lives. Dinner was good and the company was great!

Dinner, a late night and an AWOL post

I typed out a quick post this morning, and it has somehow gone AWOL. But the short and sweet of it was that I made it back last night from dinner with friends too late to post. Oh well.

Today was a very busy day today at the office. While sales weren't through the roof, I had more than enough to keep me occupied. Tomorrow I'm going to have to either take a longer lunch break or leave a little early to pick up some food for the poor ol' pooch. He is almost out.

It's MY BIRTHDAY !!!!

Yep, it's now official. I am a year older. Yay. Hoorah. Therefore I am going to make this post short and sweet. I took the day off and went to the Panther's training camp, and had a blast. Then went to Bonnie Brae and walked 18 holes of golf. It's rather hot for that, and I'm now suffering for it. Oh well. At least it's good exercise.

It's a Great Time to be Alive

Why is it a great time to be alive? Why it's FOOTBALL SEASON OF COURSE!
Tomorrow is my birthday, so to celebrate, I'm taking the day off and going to see the Panthers at their training camp in Spartanburg, SC. I have been almost every year, and it's time to make my trip up.

In case you didn't know, I'm a huge Panthers fan! The team and I both came to the Carolina's at the same time, so it just seemed like a great fit. Even through the 1 and 15 season, I was a fan. Granted, a disappointed one, but a fan none the less. I'll be taking my camera, and hope to get some shots for the site, and my newsletter.

Speaking of my newsletter, I suppose it's getting time to start drafting this month's addition. I'll be adding a few new things to it, and might try a different format (if I can get it working in time). My goal is to get it out to everyone on or about the 12th of the month. I know that's an odd date, but it's also the same deadline for another newsletter for Walden Lodge.

I have done some more reading and was pointed to a great article. If you're interested in the Plame case, this is a great article with the words coming right from the source of the leak himself. The most telling part is found in the final paragraph. Take a couple of minutes and enjoy. I was pointed to the article by Dr. Jerry Pournelle's website. This is a site I visit daily and enjoy reading his views and the mail sent in by his readers (including some from me).

The weekend is done. *sigh

I missed posting yesterday. I was completely wiped out after playing golf. I played a tournament at the Southern Oaks golf club, and just couldn't do anything right. I started out well, but it quickly went down hill from there. I will have to rethink playing in the next event at Furman University.

Since I had played golf so poorly yesterday I decided to go again today. After going to church services this morning I went to Willow Creek Country Club. This is the course that I played my first round of golf on exactly 6 years ago. It was a very good decision as I got 18 holes in before the heavy rain came, and I played very well. It's amazing how much better I played today in comparison to yesterday. I played 17 strokes better today than yesterday. Quite a swing in scores.

Out of the fire, into the water

Well the weather has finally changed from ultra hot, to ultra wet! While I won't swear I saw animals lining up two by two, it wouldn't have surprised me at all. The heavy thunderstorms of last night continued throughout today.

That will make tomorrow's golf tournament doubly tough. The course is long enough, and not getting any roll out of the fairway will make it that much longer. As long as I can keep to my game plan, I feel I'll at least give myself a shot.

I have been remiss on keeping a closer eye on the nomination of Judge Roberts. While nothing official has taken place yet (Congressional vacations, don't ya know), there is still plenty happening "off the record". Just a quick glance over the top stories, and it's obvious that the Democrats are starting to get their people in line and on the same page. It does see to be shaping up to be quite some fight.

I will keep this entry short, and get some things done here at the Bar Tab Ranch.

Crash! Bang! Boom!

I decided not to tempt fate last night and try to get online. We had severe thunderstorms last night. So violent that the thunder literally rattled the windows and doors. The flash of the lightening was so bright, it lit up the room! Now I have a surge protector, but tempting fate that way just didn't seem like a good idea at the time.

More later this evening.

A New Look

I tried to find a way to add links to the homepage of my older template, and just couldn't seem to get it done, so I changed templates. I will confess to liking the look of the old template, but this one is easy to read (at least to me) and adding links to the side will hopefully make it more friendly for the reader.

Hmmmm. I don't seem to be able to see this post for some odd reason. It says it's been published, and the number of posts has gone up, but I'm not seeing it on my home page.

One down, 9 to go

One down and nine to go.

I gave my Icebreaker speech today and it was well received. "Looking into life's rear view mirror" was it's title and got high marks form my fellow toastmasters.

One valuable lesson that was learned (more a re-learn) is that I knew what "perfect" was, but not my audience. While I recognized and passed over minor errors, mostly my audience never knew.

Another lesson learned (the hard way) was "Be Prepared". The Boy Scout motto came in handy today. I had scheduled one person for the job of Table Topics master, but as I hadn't heard from him, readied some on my own. When he didn't show, I was able to pass along the prepared topics for someone else to use, and make the transition that much smoother.

When a law is good enough for the people, surely it is good enough for their rulers?
Shouldn't that be the case? Buried in the middle of the article is a local example common practices on a national level. While a small business owner may not post advertising on public land, a politician may. While it is a minor point, it is a symptom of Washington writ small.

Just another quick note tonight as I get ready for my first speech tomorrow for Toastmasters.

I will do better to keep this up as the week continues.

UGH!

Today was a day wasted away due to sinus trouble. I'm not sure what triggered the episode, but I spent the day trapped inside. Shadow wasn't too disappointed with spending the day with me though. I took him outside and threw the ball for a while but even that didn't last too long. Not only did I have a problem with my sinuses, but it was just plain hot!

Lazy Day

Today was a day spent being anything but lazy. I worked on the house all morning, and after lunch went into town to run some errands.

While I was out, I stopped by the new HH Gregg store to see what the store was all about. They had a bare bones store inside without the usual frills you see in Circuit City or Best Buy. Their pricing appeared to be very good. I took advantage of a good buy on a dvd player for the bed room, and oddly enough a golf umbrella. While I already have a good golf umbrella, I couldn't pass up on one for less than three dollars. While it may not hold up long, for that small amount of money, it will be hard NOT to get my money's worth.

Toastmasters

Well, I am humbled, and very much red-faced. I am a (very new) member of Piedmont Executive Toastmasters, and was elected to serve as the Vice President of Education. This is a very important role, and one of great responsibility. My very first month on the job and I've already dropped the ball. I was supposed to have sent out the schedule for next week, but it never made it out. *sigh. Yet another SNAFU this week. Thank God for the president of the club's gentle nudge. I have sent out the schedule along with a humble apology. I am very much determined to better myself in this regard, and not allow this to happen in the future!

Regarding Judge Roberts. I see that there are already advertisements from the Republican party for the Senate to give him an up or down vote. I wonder how much this will cost the nation?

Goodbye Youth. Hello High Cholesterol.

*sigh. I had the second half of my (now) annual physical. It sucks to get old. When did this happen to me and how? I suppose getting old does beat the alternative. The verdict is: High Cholesterol. High cholesterol runs in the family. I am grateful that at least now there are ways to moderate it. But after reading the possible side affects, is the cure worse than the disease? I have to take a pill every night. I'm lucky to remember my name, now I'm supposed to remember to take a pill? Oh yeah, that's a great idea. Time to set a reminder on my PDA and see if that'll help.

For those of you who don't know my current habits, a little background. I have a terrible time with remembering dates and appointments. So I set about 7 or so years ago to use (more or less faithfully) a Day Timer. This worked very well for me for a number of years. The main problem was if I was away from the office (where I kept the archived months, and next month's booklet) and the month changed I was out of luck. So after a long weekend (Labor Day weekend as I recall), I added a PDA system and left the Day Timer at home. This made keeping current easier, and it interfaced well with Microsoft Outlook, synchronizing my calendar and contact list and allowing me to download small web pages and emails. However it had massive hole for me. I couldn't take quick notes on it, nor did it have the "feel" of a paper based system.

After a couple of years working with my PDA (a Handspring Visor), I upgraded to a Tungsten C with a wireless capability. It has a small thumb keyboard, and a color screen and works better than the Visor. It also allows me to take very small notes. It will also run spreadsheets, and word documents, but not very well.

So now I use a combination of Day Timer and PDA and it seems to work for me. It can be a little awkward, and redundant, but it's Good Enough. I'll try to post more on that later

I see that another attack has happened in London. This is one American who is behind our British friends 100%. You were there for us after 9/11, we are here for you now! My thoughts are with those hurt, and my sympathies to their families.

I am listening to "Terrorism Analyst" Steve Emerson on Fox News and he made a great point. Those that blame all the attacks on the U.S. and our allies on our presence in Iraq have missed the point. The 9/11 attacks were perpetrated prior to our foray into Afghanistan and Iraq. I'm not sure who he is, nor what if any, credentials he may have. But it is a valid point he makes, and one that deserves repeating here.

I'm back!

Well summer has settled in with a vengance here in South Carolina! The tempratures have soared to the middle-90's, and the humidity has followed like an obediant shadow. This has made for a run of miserable days and sticky nights. But this is to be expected this time of year. That still doesn't mean we have to like it, however.

After a quick survey of several web sites, it seems that the fight over President Bush's nomination for the Supreme Court is well underway. From early reports and quick research, he seems to be falling on the side against judicial activism, which is exactly what we need. However, time and a long Senatorial Inquisition will test his mettle. I expect from the early tones taken by the usual suspects from the left that this will not be a rubber stamp approval of Judge Roberts. I will take great delight in following his progress through the Senate hearings to come.

I was introduced today to a new site that I will be frequenting. SCHotline is an amalgamation of political news from across the state from a variety of sources. I have not done much with this site yet, but it is my intention to visit early and often.

I know I've mentioned many times that I do not keep a daily record, or blog if you will, as well as I should. One of my many resolutions for this year was to better my record. I know that the year is more than half-way through, but I'm trying!

Shadow and I

Weekend Update

It's late on Sunday night, and I had a great weekend. I accomplished a number of things around the house, and had a relaxing Sunday. I even managed to get in 18 holes of golf. Although my play was mediocre, the fact that it was so nice more than made up for it.

I made first use of the food dehydrator today. I cut up two apples and a banana, and fixed them. They taste very good. I plan on adding some of the bananas to my yogurt tomorrow morning, and see how that does. Too bad I didn't pick up cereal.

I still need to do some more with "Flat Stanley" that Cyndi's daughter Caitlyn sent. That will be my goal this week.

Tuesday's news.

Today I had a chance to attend my first meeting of the Toastmasters. For those of you who don't know, this is a group who's goal is to teach you how to be better at public speaking. I thoroughly enjoyed myself, and plan on joining, and starting my journey to better and more effective speaking.

I'd also like to start letting everyone know about the wine's I'm tasting. The current one is a Malbec from Argentina. It's from the Broquel winery, and it is wonderful! This particular vintage is from 2002, and was a reasonable $14.95 per bottle. If you're looking for a good sipping wine, that will go well with steak, this is a gem!

It's a Monday!

Well, it's really Monday again! Spring is here, and business is taking off! I have been very slack in keeping this up to date, and plan on rectifying that.

Well, first the house. I moved in back in October. It's a 3 BR 2 bath ranch, in Fountain Inn, SC. I have a ton of yard work to do, and a laundry list of things that need doing both inside and out. But, that won't change.

I have also gotten a dog! He is a 3 year old golden retriever/border collie cross who is just full of energy. We have gone through obedience training, and he's doing much better now. He was a rescue from Foothills Golden Retirever Rescue. www.fhgrr.com is their web site. Wonderful folks! I will post photos of him later.