Big Jim's Blog

Back to blogging.

2009-11-30T07:54:00.000-08:00

Well, we are back from our trip to Peg & Steve's for Thanksgiving. They are such wonderful hosts. We were joined by Tom, Tonya and family for a great traditional Thanksgiving meal of turkey, stuffing and all the trimmings. We ate in great abundance and loved it.
Peg took time out of her preparations to take the whole gang 'Geo caching'. We were very successful in finding all the hidden treasures. The children seemed to get a kick out of the search. I know I did.
The weather was great, but cold, and the deck was the place to be on the night before Thanksgiving.
Our ride up there and back were, thankfully, uneventful. We had a wonderful time and it was so nice to spend time with Tom and his family. I am looking forward to the Christmas holiday.
Love to all.

Oh What a Wonderful Weekend

2009-10-05T10:07:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure how to express this blog because I'm sure I can't include all that was part of my desire. As we celebrated my wife's 75th birthday, it could not have gone any better. The two desires I had was that it would be an event she long remember and cherish. Second I wanted it to be a complete surprise. I think we accomplished bot goals.
It was originally my idea, but I knew I needed a whole lot of help, and boy I got it. It is so wonderful to have such an amazing family that showed so much love in their efforts to pull this stunt off. I can't express my thanks for all the family who took charge and worked so hard for Nancy. When it all came together it was perfect. The hall, the food, the cake, the decorations, the music, the planning and most especially all the wonderful family and friends who came from all over to help us celebrate.
Today, when I returned from taking our Yankee guests to the airport, I said, "And how was your weekend, Mrs. Towhey?" Her response was, Absolutely wonderful, just not long enough." I agree with her.
I want to thank all of you who were a part of this event.
Thanks
Love.

First to report

2009-09-28T14:29:00.000-07:00

Well, I guess I'll be the first to report on the wonderful weekend in the mountains. Bill drove us up to Pigeon Forge without using interstate highways and it was a lovely ride. We came through Gatlinburg and made a few stops including lunch. When we got to Pigeon Forge, we had some time to kill and stopped at an Atlanta Bread Company for a snack and Wi-Fi. It turned out to be the meeting place and we met the rest of our family before going to the cabin.
Now that cabin was something else. It sat on the side of the mountain and provided really great views. The cabin was absolutely beautiful. It was a genuine log cabin done in classy rustic. More classy than rustic. With 8 bedrooms and a ton of sleeper sofas Washington could have housed the Revolutionary army and had room left over. The interior was beautiful knotty pine down to the tables. There was so much to do in the game room that I didn't even mind being house bound due to rain on Saturday. I did, however, mind getting beaten 3 straight time on the Air Hockey table and then 3 straight games of 8 Ball on the pool table by my daughter in law Deb. I gracefully declined a request to play 'Foosball'. (I'm so embarrassed)
The Williams family packed us all with great food all weekend long. I had to abandon my diet for the stay, but the food was wonderful.
Nan & I had a really great time, and it was good to spend some time with the Williams clan. We were happy that Kelly & Josh were there, we don't get to see enough of them. Bryan & Katie were there with Miss Maddy who just charmed everyone. April's brother had their baby there, Emma, who is just 6 months older than Maddy and was busy making friends with everybody.
The drive home was quiet and thankfully uneventful because the weather had cleared. I know I just hit some of the high sopts, but all in all it was a great weekend.

Good read

2009-09-01T12:48:00.000-07:00

First off, I'm very happy to be writing this blog and not having a surgeon snipping at my insides. Thank you all those great folks who remembered me in their prayers. I'm still doing a whole bunch of medical stuff to satisfy all the requirements of all the doctors that I have been working with.
The real reason for this blog is to let you in on a great read I just finished. It is a book Peg & Steve gave me called "soul Survivor". It is a true story about a little boy who had 'previous life recall. night mares. The story really gets going good when the Mom & Dad start to research the fragments of information the boy reveals. I saw the family on 'Good Morning America' and was fascinated by them. The Dad is a real stickler for proving it to be bunk and winds up paying honor and homage to some very brave WWII vets that prove the veracity of the child's nightmares. I highly recommend this book as a good read.
Love.

What a great weekend!!

2009-08-17T07:12:00.000-07:00

The much traveled military family arrived on Friday afternoon. Katie, Bryan and little Maddy found their way to Stone mountain and were warmly received
I couldn't believe how much Maddy had grown. She cooed and babbled her way into our hearts in the first three minutes sh was here. She was crawling and climbing all over the house. I'm sure she was happy to out of the restraints of the car seat. we had dinner at a local restaurant and she was good as gold.
On Saturday we went to the Georgia Aquarium where she delighted in talking to the fish and trying to grab them. She was such a well behaved little 10 month old. Of course I had a great time on two counts, watching this little child enjoy the sights of such a variety of colors and the fact that the Aquarium is one of my favorite places to visit.
As much fun as Saturday was, Sunday was even better. After charming everyone at Holy Cross, Maddy met so many more of her family. Four of the boys and their families came to visit. (We missed Peg & Tom very much.) It is always such a great time when the family gathers. I like to just sit back and watch them enjoy each other and the little charmer. And charm she did.
Thanks to the family for a great weekend. There was a little talk about my upcoming surgery, but I'm g;ad it was not the topic of discussion. It's going to happen and we are going to make the most of it.
Love.

A Book I read

2009-08-06T17:12:00.000-07:00

I just finished a really good book. The title is "Good Day, The Paul Harvey Story". It is a very well written biography of the famous voice Paul Harvey. It looks at all the various phases of his life and his character
It is very well researched, documented and presented. I, like so many millions of others, have always liked to listen to Paul Harvey and this book tells me why. He and his wife were such radio pioneers and did so much to form news and comment shows so early in the history of radio.
This is a book that I very much recommend. If you like biographies, you will love this book. Thank you Sue for the gift.
Love.

What the heck you been doing?

2009-08-02T10:25:00.000-07:00

As everyone says, it's been a while since I blogged. For the most part, I have been trying this old brain of mine to focus on some dialog for a few short skits. I have been honored to be asked to participate in a fund raiser for the Sclerderma Foundation. My very talented daughter in law and her family wanted to put a fund raiser on to honor their sister Kathleen Basile. It was a day long event on Friday July 31st. In the afternoon there was a golf tournament (I was not asked to play for very obvious reasons). In the evening there was a dinner and entertainment with entertainment, auctions, door prizes, and a grant prize raffle.
I along with some very talented friends from Holly Cross theater ministry, put on some of the evenings entertainment. It was so much fun to be performing with these wonderful people who all have the attitude that they will do what ever is asked from them to help with the cause. we did several numbers from some of the Broadway show that Holy Cross had put on. Gale Goodman Played accompaniment for the singers and her hubby, Bruce took care of the sound requirements. Dennis Nelson did "If I Were a Rich Man". Sarah Mason did "Hello Harry(Dolly)" along with a group of male backup singers. Christina Kravits and a group of female backup singers did "I' Going To Wash That Man Right Out Of My Hair". Jim Walsh and the male singers did "You Gotta Have Heart" to round out the show. Jim Basile was the Master of Ceremonies while portrayed the "Oldest Living Bus Boy in Captivity" and introduced the numbers.
Their goal for the days events was $15,000, and the last number I heard was in excess of $20,000 and the money was still coming in. It was a great success for a great cause. The Basile handled the whole thing and did an outstanding job.
Now, I know the question is coming to your mind, "What were you doing all that time?" This old mind of mine takes forever to memorize just a few simple lines. I am the first to admit that age is taking it's roll on my memory capacities. Remembering lines are hard for me, but the rewards of working with such wonderful people more that compensates for the memory loss.
I hope the people that attended to events had as good a time as I had participating.

Wonderful weekend!

2009-07-06T15:15:00.000-07:00

I am sorry that I was not first to blog about our July 4th weekend in South Carolina. Peg's blog did a great job in describing the activities, I c an only add that I can't remember a better weekend anywhere.The food was abundant and tasted great. When I got on the scale at home it said "One of you will have to get off." Steve cooked his heart out and we could not stop eating. We gabbed and talked ate and drank and just about wore the house out.
It was so much fun to be relaxed with so many of the family. I don't think anyone stopped smiling until it was time to go. The steaks were great, the ribs were just right and even the potato salad was wonderful. The fireworks show was so much better that the sparklers and helicopters I used to provide my family.
The deck was out of this world. The weather was wonderful and I could have lived on that deck all the time. Steve did a marvelous job. It's big and shady and very comfortable.
I can't thank Steve & Peg for their most generous hospitality. It truly was a wonderful long weekend.
Love

An Addendum and More

2009-06-27T07:29:00.000-07:00

My last blog was about our trip to Helen and to 'Babyland General'. I was reminded by Peg that I had forgotten a very unusual sight. While we were shopping at the Ingle's Supermarket in Cleveland, in the produce department I spotted a lady in a wheel chair who was evidently blind because she had a 'seeing eye' pony. The pony had a harness just like a seeing eye dog with a handle and all. She was holding on to the handle and being led by the pony. Now that is something you don't see everyday. But wait..... there is more! While we were in a shop that sold beautiful 'Dresden China', I noticed that the lady running the shop spoke with a German accent. Not being bashful, I asked if she was in fact from Germany. She confirmed that she was. I asked what part of Germany she was from, because I was stationed in a little town called Goeppingen. Her eyes widened and said that is the town she had lived in. Small world isn't it? I was there in 1951 & 1952, She left there in 1954. She had married a G. I.. I forgot to ask her who she married. It might well have been somebody I knew because ours has the only unit in that little town.
And now on to the present. My Father's Day was a big success. I either heard from or saw all of my children. I even had the pleasure of dinner with Jim & Sue on Monday evening.
Then came my Birthday. Another round of calls and visits from the children. I once again had the pleasure of a lovely dinner with Mike, Michelle & the girls at one of my favorite restaurants.
All in all, this summer, so far has been nothing but a real good time. So now I'll stop writing because my mind is going soft again. I know I forgot a lot and will hear from my Children. Love.

A little late!

2009-06-20T10:33:00.000-07:00

It's been a week since we returned from our trip to Helen, so I thought I better blog and fill you all in on the trip. I picked the ladies (Betty & Elanor) at the airport and we set out straight away for Helen. Thanks to the GPS, we made it there with no problem. We were a little disappointed that there were two flight of steps to get to our unit. This rural location in the mountains should have tipped me off, but the catalog never mentioned steps.Always the gentleman, I told the ladies to I would bring the four suitcases up. I made it in two trips, but was completely winded. It was at this point while I was sitting and trying o catch my breath, When Bill called. He seemed concerned that I was having a heart attack, he was close. The unit was comfortable, was not a luxury operation we have been getting at other resorts. There were several wall switches that did nothing. I'm pretty sure they originally did something. The living area seemed a little crowded so we decided to rearrange the furniture. This stuff was too big and too heavy to move. I mean even the coffee table wouldn't budge.
Helen has a General Store, but not a supermarket. We were sure that the General Store Was just a for show, tourist place. We drove into Cleveland, the next little town and stocked up on groceries. We also had to go to church In Cleveland.
We spent the week seeing the sights. Peg called to let us know that she would like to visit, of course we welcomed her with open arms. She spent one night with us on the sofa (we couldn't move the coffee table to open the sleeper sofa). We did some of the little town with her the next day and 'Baby Land General' to marvel at the birth of a Cabbage Patch Baby. Her visit was a very welcome interlude.
One of the days we visited the General Store and were pleasantly surprised to find it was really a very nice little market with fresh meat and produce. The prices were very much in line with the supermarket. They even made fresh sandwiches at the deli counter. We tried them for lunch one day and they were very good.
During the week, we visited several local wineries for some wine tasting I think the ladies really enjoyed that. Of course we had to buy some of the product.
All in all, it was a very good week and very restful for El. The Friday to Friday thing is what we like, but this was a tough year to find a spot.
Hope I don't take so long to blog next time.
Love.

Happy Memorial Day

2009-05-26T05:36:00.000-07:00

I'm not going to apologize for not blogging, I'm just a dull old man. Nothing noteworthy seem to happen in my life.
Yesterday was the exception. Most of the day was dull or partially sunny until Nancy & I started to leave the house around 4:30 PM. We were headed to the new Gwinnett Stadium for a G-Braves game. The tickets were a Mother's Day gift from Dennis & Doreen. By the time we got there the rain had ceased. The handicap parking put us about 50 feet from the stadium entrance. As we approached, a young lady asked if we wanted a wheel chair. Much to my surprise Nancy agreed. She was wheeled right to the top of the aisle. Every one we encountered told us to enjoy ourselves. Even the usher who showed us to our seats said "Enjoy the game." I commented that I guess I better enjoy it since everyone told me to. He said. "It's mandatory sir."
The young lady with the wheelchair came by and took our names and told us any time we were ready to leave, to tell the usher and she would be back to get us.
The sun was bright and the breeze warm for most of the game, unfortunately the Indians were beating the G-Braves. I got a call from Tom that Jessa and Ben were also at the park. the stopped by to see us. Our seats were really great, we were right at the "on deck circle on the 3rd base side.
Unfortunately about the bottom of the 6th inning the clouds got dark and the wind picked up. The young wheel chair lady stopped by to tell us some severe weather was coming our way and anytime we wished to leave, she would come and get us. Mid 7th inning we decided to leave. The usher call for the wheel chair and out we went. She took us right to our car. as soon as we started out of the parking lot the rain started.
Just to sum it all up, we could not have had a more pleasant experience. It is a beautiful facility and the staff could not have been more gracious.
Until something else happens, that's it for now.

Time rolls on.

2009-04-18T17:28:00.000-07:00

As everyone says, not much new here. Just wanted to blog since it has been a while. I have enjoyed reading others blog very much. I am really having a good time on 'Facebook', even I don't understand what is happening.
Last week, while the children were on spring break, Tom's family and I went to the High Museum to see the exhibit " The First Emperor's Terracotta Army". What a great exhibit, very impressive. While we were there, for less money than it would have cost for all of our admissions, we became members of the museum. This means we can go to all the exhibits free and bring guests. Pretty cool.
I did have a mower adventure this weekend. Even though we are still decorating the rooms we had painted, the weather was good on Friday and the grass was getting out of control. I got the front yard cut and shut the mower off while I attended to some other chores. When I got back on the mower, not only would it not start, but it sounded like the battery was completely dead. I tried to jump start it, but it did no good. I removed the battery and took it to the shop that services mowers. They charge it and tested and said it was 'good to go'. I put the battery in and it acted just the same. I felt the battery cable and it was really hot. I was sure I had a dead short in the electrical system. Dennis came over on Saturday morning with a trailer and we went back to the shop. As I explained the problem to the mechanic, He asked to look at the mower himself. Dennis was ready to get the thing off the trailer. The man raised the hood and shook the fly wheel back and forth. He said it's fixed. Seems the starter was hung up on the fly wheel. We brought the tractor home and, much to my consternation, I had to cut the back yard.

Happy Easter everyon.

2009-04-11T06:58:00.000-07:00

I have really been enjoying all the blogs on this net. I know it has been some time since I blogged so, since tomorrow being Easter I thought I would take this media to wish all of you a very happy and blessed Easter.
And I thought I would share some memories of Easter in my youth. I know this tale will strike some of you as really odd, but trust me this is the way it was.
Of course when we awoke on Easter morning, my brother and I ( My sister was not born yet)would hunt down all the hidden dyed eggs in our house. Believe me it was always a spirited competition. We were never allowed to eat any of the eggs before church. We lived, at that time in a two story row house on Arizona Street.
After church we changed clothes and too some of our Easter Eggs out side and participated in an annual ritual. We would stand in the middle of the street an holler "Epper". This was the challenge call for a one on one battle of the eggs. If someone responded to the call we would square off. The person that answered the call would hold one of his dyed eggs tightly in his fist with just the end showing. The challenger would then take one of his eggs and crack it down on the held egg. One of the egg shells would crack, this was the looser. He had to forfeit his egg to the winner. There were all types of theories as the how to grasp the egg to ensure victory. Of course none of these meant a darn thing. It all had to do with the hardness of the shell. There were always guys that found ways of cheating so you had to check the other guys egg. One kid had a China egg and he suffered a severe trouncing when we caught him. There was always the wise guy that brought out a raw egg that would cover your hand and your egg with yoke when he came down on your egg and hand.
These thoughts came flooding back to me today as I thought of writing a blog for Easter. I hope you enjoyed my trip down memory lane.
Love.

Happy April Fools day!!!

2009-04-01T05:46:00.000-07:00

Today is a very favorite one to me. As a youth I was prone to participate in some sort of foolishness on this special day. It has always been a fun day for me. It's not that I haven't had jokes played on me, on the contrary, I have been the but of some good pranks.
The greatest Aprils Fools prank was perpetrated by my son Tom. He knew that it was my habit to read the newspaper while I ate breakfast, even though the paper was delivered in the afternoon. I would ignore it so that I might enjoy it with breakfast. He had saved the paper for a whole year and on April 1st he replaced the real paper with the year old edition. I never caught on and read it from front to back. I really got angry that the Braves were still paying a lousy pitcher that we had dumped a long time before.
I even mentioned to Nancy that a new store was opening up in our area. She argued that that store had been there for a long time. This sort of thing went along for several days, and Tom thought I was angry with him because I never mentioned about the prank. Nancy finally showed me that I had read a year old paper. What a classic gag. You gotta love it.
This year I don't think there will be any high jinks on this day, but one never knows.
Later this afternoon I will will be participating in a fund raiser at the Gwinnett Senior center. It's called "Sit For A While". It is to raise money to fight hyperactivity in seniors. It really looks like it will be a lot of fun if we can keep all the participants awake.
That's about it for now.
Love.

Taaa Daaa!

2009-03-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

Well yesterday I spent running around in semi-circles. While on the phone with Tom, I found the kitchen phone was cutting out. I had to stand in one spot to continue the conversation. It seems that the cord was bad right at the handset. A real quick looh made me thing the cord was molded into the handset. This made sense to me because it was a cheap phone. So, I went to Best Buys and got the shock of my life. They don't carry phones with a cord anymore. So, I bought a cordless phone that could be wall mounted. Now this seems like a reasonable solution, but the problem was that this type of phone requires an electrical supply. We have one nearby, but the cord looks messy going around a corner and across the wall. I re-examined the old phone and found that I had made a mistake and the cord to the handset was a standard cord and could be easily replaced. I walked around to the store, but had to settle for a white cord to put on the black phone. The old phone is now back where it belongs.
We decided that the new phone could replace the phone in the den. I am now programing all the frequently called numbers into it. It is a little complex. The difficult part will come when I have to show Nancy how to use this feature. (Now that will be complex.)
But the really big Taaa Daaa moment came when my car radio arrived, I put it in and it plays like a brand new one. Taaa Daaa! I am, however having some problem getting it snapped in place. I need someone with a little more strength than I posses.
Thats about it for now.
Love.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-17T09:50:00.000-07:00

Well here it is St. Patrick's Day and the sun is shining, who could ask for anything more. Well, I could for one. I just called about my car radio and another one is on the way. The new tracking #, for those of you who like following these things, is 1z0y58740368056419. It has gotten as far as Atlanta and should be here tomorrow or the next day.
As you know, I have gotten on Facebook. It is very interesting and I am able to hear from so many people I don't get to talk to on a regular basis. I'm having fun just stumbling around and finding things. There are still a lot of things that I don't understand and when I try them, I never know what has happened. Things like the 'Pink Ribbon' thing and the shot challenge.
Nancy & I were scheduled to visit the Aurora Theater last Sunday, but after church, she didn't feel good. I called the box office to see if we could change our date. I got the sales managers voice mail and left a message requesting the change. I didn't get a call back and on Monday, I got my usual E-Mail thanking us for attending. Of course I sent a curt reply expressing my displeasure in hearing form them. Today they called and we are scheduled to go next Sunday. All things have worked out.
I guess that's it for now.

The Sage Continues!!!

2009-03-09T15:47:00.000-07:00

Eureka!!! The UPS truck arrived this afternoon and brought my car radio. Boy was I happy. This thing has been on a national tour with UPS. I pulled my old radio out and slapped that sucker right in the car. You guessed it, at first it worked, then when I tried to change the station I got nothing. Nada! Naught! The CD player wouldn’t even take a disk. I was not happy. The thing sounded like there was no antenna attached. I double checked all the connections but no luck.
I called the supplier and they asked me if I had the ‘code’. Of course I didn’t. She said she would check and call me back. In a little while she called back and gave me a V I N number. She says to call any Mercury dealer, give them the V I N number and they would give me the ‘code’ for that radio. I called and they passed me from the Parts department to the service department. The man there said that Mercury radios don’t need a ‘code’, they are all plug & play, only some foreign cars require a ‘code’. He said I could come in and “talk” to their radio man face to face.
I called the supplier back and told them this information and that I was not happy. They said to send the radio back and they would send me another one.
Soooo. Here I am back to square one but with some money invested in a cat and mouse game of chicken,
On a different topic, Tom went to the job bid for Captains this morning and got a firehouse that he thought would be gone by the time he got to bid. He is one happy fireman right now. Look for a blog from him, I know he will want to share the news.
I have somehow lost Tom on my Google Reader list and don’t how to get him back. Help someone.
Love.

Frustratung!!!

2009-03-07T08:34:00.000-08:00

This is my fourth try at posting this blog. for some unknown reason, this site refuses to let me post photos pertaining to the content. So I'll just go ahead and rattle on.
First off, we went to the groundbreaking at St. John Newman's new church. It was a real good affair and we were all proud of young Jim who helped out by manning (or is it boying) a shovel along side the Bishop. To add to the grandeur, there were a whole flock of Knights there, Dennis included. There was singing, praying and sprinkling all over the place. I have some really nice pictures to show you, but this site won't let me. Sorry.
We then joined the younger Towhey family For salad and pizza in Tucker. Boy was that good stuff. Many of the family were there and a whole lot of laughs.
Then on Thursday, we went to the Capri Restaurant to celebrate Sue's birthday. I had one of the evening specials "Chicken followed by a long Italian word" that included sausage, peppers and onions. It was so good.
Thursday was also the day my radio for my car was to arrive. You guessed it, it didn't show. Friday morning I went onto the UPS web site to track it. It had traveled from Oregon to Arkansas and left there for Nashville. If you want to have some fun, Go to the UPS web site and track this # 1z7165300350277106. This is a very well traveled package.
Today we are getting ready to celebrate Dennis' birthday with dinner to include Mike, Michelle and the children.
I guess that will do it for this blog.
Love.

Every body says it... but really mean it!!!!

2009-03-03T11:46:00.000-08:00

I know it’s been a long time since I blogged. (See I told you) I really have no excuse, other than laziness. It’s not like things haven’t been happening in my life, but every time I think about writing and that’s as far as I ever seem to get, I get the feeling that you all already know about the incident.

Like the great food at the Killian Hall breakfast brunch. I’m sure I have bored enough of you in person to then turn around and bore you on a blog.

Or, the loss of Kathleen Basile, which you all were a part of. That is one that I would have had a hard time writing about. Then Peg did such a great job on her blog that I don’t feel I could compare adequately.

Or my slip and fall on some ice when I got a cut over my left eye. That seemed like the shot heard around the world. I think everybody knew about it before I got my bloody head up off the sidewalk. As you all know, my wound has healed nicely and I am back to my old sassy self. It was really quite minor even though It bled rather profusely.

But now, I am in the middle of the big car radio fiasco. My car radio has been acting up for some time now and I decided to see about getting it fixed. I stopped at a local shop that claims to be a mobile audio repair shop and they said they said they only sell new equipment. They said the radio was a dealer only item (you know how I hate car dealers). They said if I had replacement they would install it for $45. Tom found a junk yard out his way that carried a large stock of radios. I went out there and picked up one for $100. I joked that I wondered if they installed them. The guy tells me that they don’t but they are a snap to swap out. He showed my the 4 holes in the front panel and said I should get “radio pins” at an auto parts store. On the way home I stopped and got a set of “radio pins” and you can’t believe how easy it is to get the old radio out. You insert these pins in the holes and move them outward and the radio slips right out. I got my old radio out, unplugged the 3 connectors and the antenna. The new (to me) radio, however had only 1 socket on the back. So, I returned the radio and tried several other junk yards, with the same results, no proper match. I got on the internet and found a site that is associate with junk yards all over the country and put in a request for my radio. I only got 1 response, so I ordered it. It cost a bit more, but the would ship it UPS. I have not, as yet received my radio, so I called to inquire. They claim there was “an event” with my address and gave me the tracking number. I went on line and found that it was shipped to Oregon, due to “an event” in the address. I sent them an E-Mail and just today got a response that it is scheduled for delivery on Thursday. We’ll see.

Last Friday Kelly and I visited a friend who runs a commercial sound recording studio and lab. Jeff was really nice in explaining sound and how he controls and captures it. He showed us a commercial for a local TV station he just finished. The trip was a real success.

Well that’s about all that I can recall you how bad my mind is) since my last blog, so I’ll just say I promise to blog more often and keep you up to date On the radio situation.

Love.

Festavus Day

2008-12-23T05:57:00.000-08:00

It's Tuesday and Tom called early to wish me Happy Festavus Day. This is an important day for Seinfeld fans. (Life imitates art). Thanks Tom.
The temperature is all the way up to 32 deg. Yesterday it was 18 deg. when I went out for the newspaper. I stubbed my toe on the steps. Wow, did that hurt. Today it is a little swollen and all purple.
I'm still basking in the afterglow of Sunday. What a wonderful day to have all the family together. I am well aware that it took some serious effort for some of you to travel so far to be here and Nancy and thank you all for your effort. Sorry Bryan could not be here, but we were all thinking of him. There were so many great moments that day that really showed the real spirit of Christmas that some of them left me with tears of joy in my eyes. (Sorry Debbie, you were not the only one) There was so much love and camaraderie (thank you spell check) in the house, you could just feel it everywhere. I got one of my wishes, a picture of the four generations together. I can't wait to see it posted on a blog.
We were glad to hear that everyone made it back home safe and sound. The day really was, as Heather says, a Christmas extravaganza.
Love & Merry Christmas to all.

Dialoge in the Dark!

2008-12-17T04:42:00.000-08:00

WOW!!!!! This is my initial reaction to my experience last night. Let me explain. There is an exhibit presently running in Atlanta called "Dialoge in the Dark". It is currently running in an area called Atlantic Station. When I first heard of it I thought it was something I would enjoying seeing. Last month Dennis and I were talking about it and he said he had free tickets if I wanted to go. Of coursse I said yes. I won't go into all the problems we had getting reservations for a time when all those going (Dennis, Kelly, her friend Josh, Tom and I ) could all make it. Last night was it. WOW!!!!
The exhibit takes into the world of a blind person. They give you a cane and some rudimentary instruction on how to use it, then take you, with a guide who is a blind person, in everyday places. places like a backyard, a park, several city streets and even a boat ride. You can't believe how lost you can be without sight. We had to tell the guide the different things we found on our journey. I never did find the house that Dennis found. He even found the address. While spending time in the park, only a few of the group found the great big tree. I never did, but Tom told me I was within inches of it. I was, however the first to fund a car parked in the street.
The last place was a cafe where we could buy refreshments and sit in a booth to talk with the blind guide about being blind.
It was it was an awesome and very humbling experience. I would love to see the exhibit with lights on to see just how much I missed.
Great night and good company.
Love.

The Challange

2008-12-13T05:22:00.000-08:00

Ok. Ive been putting off writing a blog that has been forming in my limited brain for quite a while. This challange gives me a chance to blog without bringing the errant blog to frution. I just love procrastination.
The Book I am currently reading is called Transfer Of Power by Vince Flynn. Page 56 starts out with.......
"The tan well-kept man was shown into the oak paneled office of the chairman of the Democratic National Committee. The rotund and jovial Russ Piper stood from behind his desk and walked over to greet his wealthy visitor. Extending his hand, Piper said, "Prince Kalhil, it is a pleasure to finally meet you."
The book is a novel about Islamic terrorists taking over the White House. It is a good plot and well written novel.
Thanks for the challange.
Love.

And life goes on!

2008-12-01T15:36:00.000-08:00

The weekend has ended and we are all facing the next week in our lives. I read Pegs blog and Mikes blog and will try to incorporate Pegs challenge in my blog.
Thanksgiving at Mikes home was really wonderful. Great people, great food and so much fun. There was so much to eat that some of us missed a dish.
Friday we celebrated Tom & Bens birthdays. Bryan (Toms person) was not there and Peg was, we opened up the invitation to everyone who could make it. We really had a houseful. Kelly even brought her friend Josh with her. Jim was there, but not Sue. All in all, we had something like 24 people at tables. we were all sitting around gabbing and remembering things when I looked at Nancy & said, "great day" and she replied, "really great day."
Now to comment on Peg's challange, I have to agree with Mike. Family and friends are what I am most thankful for. I will never be able to understand families that don't not only get along, but have the time of their lif with and want to be with them all the time.
Love.

To Tybee and back!

2008-11-22T16:16:00.000-08:00

I know it's been a while since I blogged, but we have been away from home for the past week. Last Saturday we took off for Tybee Island (our home away from home). It was the time for our timeshare there. I retrieved the blogs from the computer at the library. My time was limnited and I know I didn't comment on some of the blogs and didn't blog about our activities but I was pressed for time. We had MaryJo and Carolyn with us. I was joking all week that I was driving a car full of Mother-in-laws. The trip down was cloudy and chilly. No real rain, just an occasional sprinkle. Sunday dawned really bright and beautiful. We didn't really do much except a little walking around. We went to River Street on Monday. Carolyn and I wanted to have some shrimp & grits at Huey's. As it turns out there was a tall shil docked on River Street and it was open for tours. The ship was built in 1989 in Brazil. It had been left to decay after a few years. The group called the 11 Nations bought it have done a great job in restoring it. We rally enjoyed it. It was a nice day for all of us.
The rest of the week, each got colder and colder. We stuck pretty close to home, but did the obligatory visit to Chu's and walks on the beach and pier.
All week week wherever we went we were looking for a nice, reasonable restaurant to eat at on Thursday night. We found a new place where we had never been to before. They claimed no entries over $20.00. The sample of dishes in their ad looked really good. We took a trip earlier in the day to look it over. The had a big banner on their outside sign that they had 'Early Bird Specials from $9.99 to $11.99 from 5:00 till 6:30 PM. Usually they don't open till 6:00 PM. That settled it, that was the place for us. The place is called Charly's and is located in a little 3 bedroom house on Cambell Ave. right behind the Post Office. We got there about six O'clock and found it quite charming. They had real cloth table covers and was decorated with art pieces for sale on the walls. The service was good and the food was excellent. I ordered from the reguler menu and ordered Linguine with shrimp and scallops. It was really good. I recomend the place highly.
MaryJo had to come home on Friday to be with Cathleen who was having some tests done in the hospital. I took her into the visitors center in Savannah where I turned her over to two of her grandchildren who were going home from college.
Later on Friday the three of us went to a craft show on Hutchison Island at the trade and convention center. It is the largest craft show in the south.
The trip home was rather unevetful and here I am catching up on theing.
Love.

I am honored Really!!!

2008-11-11T14:56:00.000-08:00

The other day Jimmy calles and asked if I would like to attend the Veterans Da y event at his school. Of course I said I would be there. He then asked if I would wear my uniform. Of course that couldn't happen, mear fabric just can't last that long. I really think I could have fit into it, if it were still around.
We showed up and were ushered into the gym where chairs had been set up for the spectators and risers set up for the third grade students. They had programs made up and the classes were lined up so that one group wore red shirts, one group wore whit shirts and the last group had blue shirts.
They sang patriotic and military songs. Some of the students gave talks on the history of the flag and of Veterans day. We pledged allegiance to the flag. The ceremony was then topped off with each veteran there being called up and their student relative presented them with a lovely medal on a beautiful ribbon. The program ended wit the singing of 'God Bless America"
It was just a beautiful ceremony and I really felt honored. There were Veterans form WWII, Korea, Viet Nam as well some still on active duty.Most of them were in uniform.
What wonderful day and what a wonderful way for the third grade to show it's patriotism by honoring those who have served their country.
Love.

We did early voting

2008-10-29T07:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had some shopping to do in Snelville and a new early voting place just opened there. So we went to vote first. When we got there we found it mobbed. We would have gone in anyway because of our age, but there was nowhere to park. It was a library and the parking lot was full, the driveway was full and there were cars parked all along the roadway for a mile in every direction.
We decided to do the shopping first and come back. We figured the crowd would thin out. No such luck. As we approached the polling place we saw that there were still cars everywhere. Then luck struck. Just as we came abreast of the building we noticed several spot were open on the apposite side of the road. I did a U-turn and parked on the shoulder of the road right next to the library. It was then a short walk across the lawn. We noticed that the line stretched around three sides of the building. As we approached the building, a worker opened the door and said just follow me. Nancy joked ( a rare occurrence for her as you all know) are you saying we are old? The worker retorted, I'm just saying, follow me. They led us into a room with about 30 chairs an about 26 people waiting. We filled some forms and just waited. As people were taken in to vote the line played musical chairs and moved around the room. We were seated at 12:00 and it was just about 1:30 when we got to vote. The couple ahead of yus had arrived at 8:45 that morning (15 minuets before the polls opened) and waited in line till they were ready to enter the building when a poll worked saw them and brought them inside. It will sure be interesting to see what the lines at the polls look like at on Nov. 4th.
I saw this article and thought it was just too funny not to pass along.

Later we went to a local Taco Bell and got our free buritto. The one from the World Series. Turns out thet seniors also get a free drink. What a country!
Love.

No story here!

2008-10-09T15:44:00.000-07:00

As all of you know, we now have a cell phone with a camera. Like most people with this little wonder, I have been taking pictures. Now the problem comes of what to do with them. Everybody I asked told me the didn't know how to get them off the to use them elsewhere. Well, I went to my local phone store and bought a memory card for the phone. They told me I could put the pictures on the card and then download them. I tried to do this several times and could make it happen. Today, I had nothing pressing to do (I'm retired you know) so worked hard at it and was finally successful.

I thought you might like to see some of the pictures I had stored in limbo.

This is the very first picture I took after I got the phone. I thought it came out good

A trip to the aquarium produced this beauty.Oh Kelly you really do justice to to the Penguin world.

Carolyn acquired a new friend at Tybee Island Crab Shack.

The latest picture did not come out as well as most, but it tells about Heather's passion for entertaining. She is front row center.

As I am doing this blog, I find I need a better way to post pictures. They all appear at the top, and I have to move them down. Does anybody know a better way to post pictures?
Love.

Happy - Happy!!!!

2008-10-08T13:14:00.000-07:00

First off let me wish Dennis and Doreen a very happy 25th anniversary!!!(and they said it would never last) Hope you have many, many more and that the are just as joyful.
Next I would like to wish a very very happy birthday to Maddy Williams, my brand new great grand daughter. I know she will have many more of these, and she will probably remember them more than this one. All our best to Katie and Bryan
Who could ask for a better day than this a celebration of a life together and a life yet to live.
I still have another story to tell, but it will wait for another day.
Love.

Another blast from my past!

2008-10-07T05:59:00.000-07:00

I have been giving Peg's challenge about childhood memories quite some thought. For this seion I think I will stay with my childhood rather than that of my children.
When I was in the second grade, my father went to Panama City Florida to work in a hosiery mill that my uncle Harry was apart owner. After my brother and I finished school for the year the rest of the family joined him. We were all members of the only Catholic Church in town. Since my aunt Marie was not Catholic, it fell upon uncle Harry to get his son 'Little Harry' to church every week. Now you must understand that my cousin Harry would do anything that would annoy people. In fact he had a nickname 'Itchy Britches'.
One Sunday at church, to keep Little Harry busy while the rest of us went to communion, uncle Harry gave him a rosary to examine. Things seemed to be going along as planned until we were coming back up the aisle. There was 'Itchy Britches standing in the pew with his hand in the air, twirling the rosary on one finger and shouting, "Hold on Jesus, Your going for a ride."
Uncle Harry left the church immediately with Little Harry on tow. We didn't see either of them the rest of the day, but I'll bet he got his hide tanned big time.
When we got home, my Mom cautioned us to never mention this event anyone. I have never forgotten the look of anger and frustration on Uncle Harry's face that day.
My next story will also be about my Uncle Harry, but that is for another rime.
Love.

Well, here goes

2008-09-25T14:50:00.000-07:00

I've been mulling over Peg's idea of childhood memories. I am torn between my childhood and yours. I have so very many memories of your childhood that it would be difficult to single out one over another. I have shared six great childhoods that so full of memories.
Of course, I had a pretty great childhood myself. None of you were part of it though and can't relate to the impression it made on me. maybe the best thing is to start with my childhood and then balance it with some of yours. That being said, here is a vivid memory from my childhood.
First of all it was so long ago that I don't remember my exact age, but I was probably 9 or10 years old, or maybe a little older. My uncle Bill (Yes even I had one of those) took my brother and I to the old Philadelphia Arena at 45th and Market street. (It has long since been torn down.) We went to see "The Roy Rodgers Rodeo & Wild West Show". For those of you who don't remember the name, Roy Rodgers was a singing cowboy and the hero of all kids my age. The rodeo portion was just some roping, bronc riding and barrel racing . The biggest part of the show was a lot of horse pageantry and Roy himself showing of his horse Trigger and singing some cowboy songs. Of course he was joined by Dale Evans. During some of the pageantry portion of the show I had to use the rest room (Some thing never change) and as I was going across the aisle, there standing in the entrance was my hero, Roy himself!!!! Luckily I had my show program with me. Roy first waved to me, then shook my hand and then signed my program.
I was in awe! When I got back to my seat, I couldn't wait o show off my autograph. I was on cloud nine. Later in the show when he came into the arena (He was the final act). I had such a smile on my face I thought I would burst. I kept that program well into adulthood, but I have no idea where it ever got to.
For a little kid like me to meet and greet his hero in person was the dream of a lifetime and I can still picture Roy standing there checking on the progress of the show.
Perhaps in the future I'll give you a memory of your childhood.
Love

Home again, home again!!!

2008-09-18T13:11:00.000-07:00

Well, here it is Thursday afternoon and we have arived safely home from Tybee. Tuesday night we went to the low country boil at the resort. The lady that runs this event collects thosezip top tabs. The Scherers and us each had a baggy full of them. I used it to bribe her into letting our table go first in line.
Last night we went to a restaurant we had never been to before. Peg had a friend that recommended it. All I will say is I'm not sure that person really is a friend. It was a rundown bar & restaurant near a boat ramp on a river. The menu was sparse, They had shrimp& crab. Of course for the non-seafood eaters, they di offer hot dogs. We had a good time there and the food was well done, but was a typical fish camp atmosphere. We got some rain on the way home. It was much needed.
Of course I walked the beach this morning, but it was a very disappointing sun rise due to the lingering clouds. In fact none of the sunrises this week were less than great. After the walk & shower, we ate at the "world Famous Breakfast Club". What great food. (eat your heart out).
That's it for now.
Love.

Leading the good life!!!

2008-09-16T08:23:00.000-07:00

It's tuesday and we have been here at Tybee since Saturday. The weather has been great and the good times just keep going. Last night we ate at the 'Crab Shack' (eat your hearts out) and I had Deveiled Crab. I have been walking every morning and watching the sun come up. That is the highlight of my day. It has to be a good day when you can hear the ocean, walk along the beach and watch the sun come up to start the day.
We will be home on Thursday evening.
Love.

9/11 Post

2008-09-11T07:29:00.000-07:00

I have been reading all the blogs from the family and am proud that you all feel so strongly about this date. It is the 7th anniversary of the terrorist attack on our great nation. I am sitting here writing with a very sad heart and a tear in my eye for all those souls lost on this day. It also makes me so proud of Bryan and all the service men and women who are putting it all on the line to keep this country safe and preserve our precious freedom.
Now that I've said that let me speak of more happy things. Yesterday was Jason's birthday, so we would like to wish him a happy birthday and many more.
Saturday we celebrated Kelly s birthday with a lovely gathering of some of the family. A good time was had by all. Nancy even had bread with the lovely meal. Kelly moved into her own apartment on Sunday, Good luck on the new experience.
Now some preaching!!! This is an election year to elect the next president of these great United States. I won't presume to tell you how to vote, but I will implore you to vote. Please study the issues, listen to the various candidates and vote your conscience. Whatever you do Please vote.
Nancy & I are off again next week. We will be going to Tybee Island (eat your hearts out) on Saturday and coming back on Thursday afternoon. Winnie & Gene have invited us to share their week at Tybrisa with them and we were delighted to accept. So if you call the house and get our house and get the answering machine, call our cell.
Thats about it for now. I will be reading the blogs from the library at Tybee.
Love.

Home again, Home again...You know that stuff!!!

2008-08-28T14:45:00.000-07:00

Well we made it home today from Peg's. The weather was great and the traffic was very light. We come home the way Steve makes the trip.
We checked our MPG for the trip home. The first day it was 28 Mpg, yesterday it was 27 MPG and today it was 26.7 MPG. I think the reason todays was lower is all the stops and starts and little towns with lower speed limits and lights.
It has been a great trip and we had such a good time and were able to party with so many wonderful people.
I have no idea when I will be blogging again cause we going back to our everyday boring routine.
Has anyone heard from Heather??? I haven't seen any !!!!!!! in quite a while.
Love.

At Peg's

2008-08-27T13:07:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let everyone know we arrived at Peg & Steves OK. today was the first rain we have seen since we started our trip. The rain was not constant, but it was hard some of the time.
Last knight I checked my gas milage for the day doing 65 MPH or less. It came out to 28 MPG. This was from Re's to Harrisonburg, VA. I was a little disappointed, sine I checked when I first got this car and it was 27 MPG. I really thought it would much more. Maybe I'm expecting too much from my car.
I have been looking for Heather's weekly blog. Could it be that she is not blogging every Saturday like she promised? Ihope everything is all right with her. I really miss the !!!!!!!!!!!.
Love.

In VA!!!

2008-08-26T14:20:00.000-07:00

Left Re's this morning and made it to Harrisonburg, VA. the weather so far on this trip has been fantastic. For August, it is even somewhat cool. The traffic was fairly light. My experiment with traveling 65 MPH or less is still on going. After I get off this computer, I'll check my MPG.
Looking forward to seeing Peg & Steve tomorrow. We are a little over 5 hours away, so we should be arriving early afternoon.
I hope Peg is able to get home. I saw on the news this afternoon, after we checked in, that there was a computer glitch with the FAA and it was affecting all flights all over the country.
Will be home sometime on Thursday.
Love.

The Jersey joint!!!

2008-08-25T14:55:00.000-07:00

We ar at Re's house for the night (Monday). Just had a late lunch with Re & Dot. It was a nice mean.
Yesterday was a really great day. Kate & Joe had a gathering at their house and there were a lot of the family. We got a chance to talk with so many relations and the food was outstanding. Kate's house is so well laid out for large gatherings. Everyon there sends their greeting to our whole family.
I am on Re's computer and although I read all the outstanding blogs, (Peg, Katie & Jim) I am not able to comment on them.
Tomorrow we will be off to Harrisonburgh VA for the night. Wednesday we go to Peg & Steve's. I'm really looking forward to a visit with them ( I hope Peg gets home before we get there.
Love.

Back from th"Dead Fred"

2008-08-24T08:58:00.000-07:00

Here it is, Sunday morning (late) and we are back at Kate's house. There will be a gathering of some of the clan later today. Nan is busy making a 'Tomato Pie' for later and El is busy in the kitchen along with Kate.
Last night was "Dead Fred's " party and it was a great time for all It was good to be with so many old friends and meet some new ones. There aere 3 young people there from the modern Battalion, and 2 of them sat at our table. One is already retired and the other is a current member. The unit is being activated for deployment in Iraq. They leave on September 19 for Camp Shelby Mississippi. I gave the young Leiutenant my E-Mail address and he promised he would keep in touch, I hope he does.
This morning we had breakfast with my friend Robbie and his significant other before Mass.
So now we are getting ready to meet the other relations and enjoy each other.
Tomorrow we will motor (I hate that phrase) to NJ to visit my sister and my sister in law. I should be able to blog from there.
I just finished the book "The Last Lecture" and it is spectacular. Thanks Sue. This is a book for all ages and as soon as Nan finishes it, it will be up for grabs. It is wonderful reading.
Love.

In Philly

2008-08-22T17:19:00.000-07:00

Today was another calm and quiet day on the road. The traffic was not bad and the weather was great.
I am writting from Castle Kraher tonight. Kath and her mother send their love to all.
I'm not sure I will get a chance to write tomorrow because of the party, but I will definatly write on Sunday.
Love.

Still going

2008-08-21T15:22:00.000-07:00

Well the first day was a good one. We are safe and sound in Roanoke VA. We just had dinner in a lovely Mexican restaurant on the premises. The traffic and weather were both very good today. The only delays were getting out of Gwinnett County. There were school busses and rail road crossing and of course the traffic.
Just wanted to let you all know that things are well with us. (Thanks for the check call Bill.)
Love.

Here we go again!!

2008-08-20T18:22:00.000-07:00

As usual, I'll try to catch everybody up. It was good to hear from Mike again. I knew he was still around because I saw him at church.
Last Sunday afternoon, we went to the Aurora Theater to see "Dam Yankees". It was a well done, good performance. A bunch of us then gathered at the "Sweet Tomatoes" restaurant to make the day just perfect.
Tonight we went to Smoke rise Baptist Church (it is Wednesday after all) to watch our neighbor's children in a show. It was "Willie Wonka Junior" with all kids. It was well done and very enjoyable.
Tomorrow we will be leaving on our trip north. We will be in Roanoke tomorrow night, then at Katherine's Friday night. Saturday night is 'Dead Fred's Party' so we will be in Holiday Inn, then it's back to Katherine's for Sunday night.
Monday we will go to Jersey to visit Re & Dot. We will leave Re's on Tuesday morning and spend the night in Harrisonburg VA.
Wednesday we will drive to Peg's and spend the night with her. Then it is home on Thursday and back in our own bed.
I'm putting all this in writing so all you kids know our schedule and don't call our friends looking for us.
Love.

Seems I'm always catching up.

2008-07-29T07:22:00.000-07:00

Last Monday was very uneventful and seemed normal (so to speak) Tuesday, after my walk I decided ti clean up the yard from leaves and limbs that a local storm deposited. In hind site, this was not a good decision. It was very hot and the job was bigger than I had anticipated. By the time I finished I was really exhausted and hurt all over.
I seemed to bounce back on Wednesday when I joined Dennis, Kelly, Jimmy, Michelle, Hannah & Heather for a trip to the Planitarim and the Fernbank Science Center. It was a good time and I have missed seeing these 2 places for many years.
Just as an aside, many years ago I had taken Mike, Tom & Dennis there of an evening when my sister called. When Nancy told her I took the boys to Fernback, She thought Nancy said "Sperm bank" and almost choked. Nancy was still laghing when we got home.
Thursday evening I was feeling poorly and went to bed early. I wound up with a sore throat that only got worse on Friday. So, first thing Saturday morning I went to the doctor and got some dedication. I have been taking it easy since then and getting better each day. The Doctor said I had used all my energy cleaning up the yard and couldn't fight off the cold bug.
Right now I am getting all my ducks in row for our trip to 'Dead Fred's' party on August 23rd. Sorry I won't get to visit with Peg on the trip up, but should see her on the return trip. We will leave here on Thursday the 21st and stopover in Roanoke that night. Visit Katherine on the 22nd. We will be at the party site the23rd then back to Katherine's on Sunday the 24th. Visit mt Sister on Monday the25, then start back on Tuesday the 26th with a stop in Harrisonburg that night and hopefully get to Peg's house on Wednesday the 27th. (If peg beats us home from Texas.)
I will be catching up again soon.
Love.

just to catch up some.

2008-07-15T13:20:00.000-07:00

This past week has had it's ups and downs. Last Wednesday my computer caught a worm. This is not a good thing to happen. I was alerted while on line that I was under attack. So I ran my AVG software. It caught, and put in a vault, 3 worms. I was very happy. The software told me everything was good and I was fully protected. Then something started to open 'Internet Explorer' pages faster than I could close them. I ran the AVG software again. This time it over 6 hours to complete. Thursday morning I took the old desk top into the shop. The technician was quite familiar with the problem and said it would take all day to clean it up. About 2 o'clock Friday afternoon they called and said it was ready. It is now up and running just fine.
Sunday started ot good and got better. We went to Mass at Holy Cross for the first time in several weeks. It really felt good to get back with so many of our friends. It was breakfast Sunday and of course I over ate. I don't know why they always come around to me with seconds. Maybe because I never refuse them. Later in the day we got a call from the bulging Katie. She and Bryan were stuck at the Atlanta airport for the night. I won't go into the details, she will probably do that, they were on their way to Florida for a vacation with Bryan's family, but she needed someplace to stay. We called Mike and he was more than willing to pick them up at the North end of the MARTA line. They were both worn out from their ordeal. (Only 3 hours sleep the night before.) We had a reral nice visit with them and got caught up on what was going on in their lives. Monday morning I took them to the airport to continue their adventure.
Today was Primary day here and I did my civic duty. One of the questions on the ballot was about bring MARTA rail into the county. I'm all for that. I think of the uture when I can no longer drive and would like to get places on public transportation. I got to vote for John Linder who is sponsoring the "Fair Tax" bill in Congress. I also voted for the Republican party to press for the passage of that same "Fair Tax" bill.
Tomorrow is Aquarium day and I am looking forward to another day of fun.
Love.

Jim fights the mower and wins!!!

2008-07-01T09:13:00.000-07:00

First off, let me say that I can now access the Google Reader. It seems that you cannot have both 'Internet Explorer' and 'Mozilla' trying to access the same files. I was using Internet Explorer without success. I am now on Mozilla and it works fine.(Boy am I confused.)
Now, about the mower! As I related in a previous blog, I wanted to cut my grass (read that as green weeds) before going on vacation. I got the front lawn done and when I went to the back yard, I hit a tree root and bent a blade.
At first I tried to figure out how to jack the mower up to get at the blades. This proved futile, so was resigned to remove the mower deck. This required laying on the hard garage floor and work at arms length under the mower. Each time I thought I had the deck loose, there was another connection I had to find and overcome. After finally freeing the deck I found that the blades were on real tight. Using chains to hold the blades fixed and a pipe to give more leverage, I got both blades off.
I replaced the blades and reassembled the deck to the tractor. All seemed in order until I went to cut the grass late in the afternoon. The drive belt for the blades just wouldn't stay on. I made an inspection and found that the pulley that tensions the belt was evidently damaged and needed replacing. Now that I was aching all over and completely frustrated, I decided that it would have to wait till I got back.
So yesterday I went at that mower nice and early. Since I already knew what coupled the deck to the tractor, it only took me about 15 minuets to get the deck free. The bolt holding the damaged pulley came loose real easy. I got a new one and had the machine assembled in no time. I was able to get the grass cut, all before noon.
I really feel good that I met the challange and came out on top.
Till next time.
Love.

I have trouble!

2008-06-30T18:39:00.000-07:00

Ia anybody having a problem with accessing the Google Reader? I have not been able to read any blogs through the reader site. It give me a message,"Done with errors", but would not go there. I am still able to get to each individual blog, but I have to print them in a narrow format which uses an awful lot of paper and takes going to each blog. This takes a bunch of time.
I am still reveling in my vacation of last week. I forgot to mention that Mike too me to breakfast at the "Breakfast Club". I had a full serving of " Helen's Solidarity" AKA "The grill cleaners special". It was fabulous! The weather was terrific all week long and Tybee was Tybee.
I'll talk later.
Love.

The end of another vacation.

2008-06-28T14:09:00.000-07:00

Well here it is, Saturday afternoon and we have just returned from Tybee Island. It was a great week with lots going on.
Of course there was my phone fiasco. On Sunday, after my morning walk, I could not find my cell phone. Everyon searched the house and I searched my car, but to no avail. we tried calling the phone, but no one answered. We finally went into Savannah to the phone stoer. The same one I got that phone 3 years earlier after my first phone fiasco. We had to renew our contract for another 2 years, but we got the phone cheap. We have concludded that the phone was probably still set to silent mode from Mass on Saturday night. This new phone has a lot more features and is much more complex than the old one and I am strugeling with it. My wonder wife gave me a 'Blue Tooth' earpiece to go with the new phone. Fortunatly Jennell Foy was familiar with these things and got me started properly on that. The worst part is that I have to enter all those phone numbers again.
We did the beach on Sunday. Surf, sand and sea and fun. We did River street on Monday (and the phone store of course). We had shrimp & grits at Huey's. I spent the evening trying to understand the new phone. After pushing a lot of buttons, I noticed there was a big blue 'E' on my screen. try as I may I could not get rid of it or even find out what I did to get it there.
The new earpiece had a broken hook that goes around the ear. So, back to the phone store we went on Tuesday. They replaced the hook on the earpiece. Then they explained that the 'E' was the network I connected to and can't be removed.
Each day of the week the gang had something going on. Ther was the dolphin tour, the beach and the store visits (including ice cream stores).
My best time came every afternoon after the sun left the deck. There was always a great breeze and a great view of the ocean. That was also the time for a nice glass of Merlot. (Oh the joy of vacation)
the week ende on Friday night when the proll family joined us at the 'Crab Shack'. Good food added to a good view makes life a wonderful thing.
Sorry I have no pictures to add to this blog. So I'll say Love.

Another vacation/

2008-06-21T05:23:00.000-07:00

Here it is, Saturday morning and we are getting ready to leave for Tybee Island. I thought I would get in a quick blog before we left.
This past week has had it's ups and downs.
Last Sunday was Father's Day and I got to see most of the boys and their families. It is always a good day when the family come to visit. All in all it was a great day. We also celebrated Mike's Birthday. More family fun.
Not much happened till Wednesday when I went to cut the lawn (read this as green weeds). After getting the front done I went to the back yard and hit something big and bent one of the blades. To get to the blades I had to remove the mowing deck from the tractor. This is a rather strenous activity, but I got it done. I got some new blades and put them on. Re-attaching the deck was another tough task, but I got 'er done. I went on to cut the back 40 and the darn belt kept comming off. After several attempts and failures I looked under the tractor and saw that the tension pully was damaged. I didn't have the time or willpower to drop that deck again so it will be waiting for me when I return.
But, this is Saturday and I am going to Tybee for the week and I will lay back and relax.
Hope everyone has a good week.
Love.

Just Because!

2008-06-14T07:02:00.000-07:00

I feel obliged to blog today on several different levels.

First I have a fantastic week. We got a surprised and welcomed visit from Peg. Since she live out of state, we don't see as much of her as we would like. She arrived on Monday and we had our personal time with her. On Tuesday four of her brothers came by for a real good visit and some food.

Wednesday Peg & I visited Tom at the firehouse. That was an eye-opener. A local company has taken on the task of rehabilitating to living area of the firehouse. What a great job they are doing. They have install a new kitchen and day room with really great stuff, including a wide screen TV.

When we came back, Bill was here to visit with Peg. We had several other visitors on Wednesday. Their names will remain unspoken because of the circumstances.

Peg left on Thursday and life resumed. We hope she finds time in the future to visit again. We really enjoyed the time together.

The next reason I wanted to blog is that I have been working on this blog site. I have been unhappy with the look I was achieving. It just didn't look as neat as all you other guys. I'm not there yet but I am improving. Hope you like the new look.

I put this photo in here just to show, A) I can do it and B) To show how awesome the National Botanical Gardens can be.

Yesterday we attended another funeral of a close friend, Jack Early. Jack was a man with a multitude of physical problems who absolutely loved children and showed that love every time he saw a child.

Today we are attending the birthday party for another friend, Jim Kelly. He is 100 years old and is considered a parish treasure. I know that there will be a mob at the party.

I guess that's it for now. Let me know if you have any suggestions for my page.

Love.

Seems there is a slowdown!

2008-06-04T08:35:00.000-07:00

After the rush of blogs, there seems to be a slowdown, so I thought I would blog just for the fun of it.

A quote for today: "Build a man a fire and he will be warm for one day. Set a man on fire and he will be warm the rest of his life."

One of the nice things about getting old is that you like to reflect on some of the good times in your life. Our recent vacation is just such a time. We were four happy old folks doing what we wanted to do and enjoying each other. The picture above is of the Marine Corps Memorial in Washington. We spent a day visiting some of the highlights of that wonderful city. It really made me want to return and see it at my leisure.

This picture is of the changing of the guard at the Tomb Of The Unknown in Arlington National Cemetery. Only Betty & I had enough breath to make it on time to see this. This is after we all visited the grave of President Kennedy.

Nothing much has been happening around here after we got settled back at home. Today Nancy is off with her friends for 'Games Day' This happens the first Wednesday of every month, and it is a time for all the girls to get together and have a lot of laughs.

Until later, Love to all of you.

Home again, home again, jiggity jig!!!

2008-05-29T15:35:00.000-07:00

We drove home from Peg's house today and brought to a close the wonderful vacation we have been on for 2 weeks.

Now I told you that Peg helped me with my blog page and as you can see I am able to add photos as well as just words. I can check all the other blogs from my page. Pretty nifty.

The picture you see is of all of us as we came out of Luray Caverns. We had just been some 250 feet below the ground level. This is a natural wonder that everyone needs to see It is awsome!

When we left here we drove to the Skyline Drive. There we reached and altitude of around 5000 feet. What a dramatic change.

This picture is of "See no evil, Speak no evil and Hear no evil" Also known as Elanore, Betty & Nancy. The picture was taken at one of the lookout points on the Skyline Drive. The drive is a long and winding road that is just filled with beautiful senic vistas. I know Bill and Peg have driven this route before, but some of the views can take your breath away. Even the 3 evils agreed that it was worth the ride.
I'll blog again real soon to show some of the other wonderful sights we saw during our vacation.
Glad to see Kenny has joined us. What a funny blogger he is.

You know I need help because......

2008-05-29T04:33:00.000-07:00

As I said before (even if you didn't read it) We are at Peg's. Last night she was assisting me in adding elements to my blog page. Look at it now and you will see some vital changes. I can now find all my wonderful friend's blogs from my very own page (whoo Hoo). This has not been an easy process for some one who doesn't understand what the hell I am doing.
Today we will be heading home at last. We will nit be traveling for several weeks. Then it's on to Tybee (Whoo hoo).

Still going south

2008-05-28T17:56:00.000-07:00

Well here are still going South. We are not home yet, but we are visiting Peg & Steve's house. We left Harisonburgh VA for a nice pleasant drive to Peg's house. then the weather hit. This weather was a little different from our last trip. This time the rain and the fog didn't all hit at once. The rain was rough and the fog was rough, but at least they came at different places along the road.
We were treated to a good visit, although we missed Katie. When we got here Peg was just comming home from dropping Katie off at the airport.
We had a great dinner and then Steve found the Braves on TV, Nancy is happy as a clam at high tide.

Headin South!!!

2008-05-27T15:15:00.000-07:00

We are back in Virginia headed to Peg's house. Tonoght we are in Harisonburgh, VA. I will write a longer blog when we get home.
Last night we stayed with my sisyer Marie. We all (Re, Joe & Dot) went out to dinner then back to Re's house to gap til late at night.
The weather has been good to us so far, no problems.
Talk later
Love.

Enjoying Kate's company

2008-05-25T07:23:00.000-07:00

Here it is, Sunday. We got to Kate's house yesterday and a lovely dinner of Spaghetti & meatballs after a quick trip to mass.
As usual, she is still updating her home. The latest addition is revamping the kitchen. It is lovely.
Everybody is up and about. we are getting ready to go to Pattyanne's for BBQ and meet and greet.
We have been looking at all the blogs and are so happy to be able to kep in touch and know what is happening in the family. Kate is starting her own blog page and hopefully will join us. It will probably help if we all give her our support.
Glad every one got back safe from the cruise.
Later this week (Wednesday) we will be spending an overnight with Peg & Steve. Sorry we won't get to see Katie.
I will blog again later this week.
Love.

High in the mountains

2008-05-22T10:04:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have not been blogging for a while, but I have to use the resort's computer and it is not always easy to get to.
We arrived Sunday at this really nice resort in the mountains. Driving the mountain roads is somewhat of a challange, especialy at night. Monday I went to an orientation that is really a sales pitch. I don't hasv time now to explain, but Aunt El went as my wife and her name was Betty.
Tuesday was a great wine tour. 2 wineries and mucho tasting.
Yesterday we were in DC on a tour. We left here at 6:00AM and got back at 10:00 PM. Long day but a good trip. I love DC. We will revisit it. Later we go up to a very high spot called (of all things) lookout point.
Tommorows schedule is Lauray Caverns.
Gotto go for now.
Love

Last blog for a while.

2008-05-15T18:26:00.000-07:00

Here it is Thursday night and we are getting ready to leave early in the morning for our vacation in the Shannondoah Valley. We will be in Richmond VA tommorrow night, the at Mike & Julie's on Saturday for Taylors graduation Party. Saturday night we will stay in Annapolis MD then on to the Shannondoah Valley for a week (Sunday to Sunday).
We will go back to Philly to drop off El & Betty. Then we will visit Pattyanne & Steve for a family get together.
We will spend an overnight with my sister RE then head home.
I am still trying to get used to this new blog system. Tom has shown me a neat way to read all of the blogs as they show up, but I can't comment unless I go to the individual blog site. Chris mentioned something about Google reader, but I can't find it, maybe you can refresh me on this feature.
I'm hopeing that Jim will stop over sometime after we get home and help me make a pretty page with all the neat stuff he has on his page. I would like to share some of the oictures from our vacation.
I will try to get on a computer sometime while we are on our trip, but don't count on it. I know I can use Katherine's when we get that far, but that is quite a distance from now.
I've blathered enough for now.
Love.

On the blog again!

2008-05-14T06:42:00.000-07:00

Ok! So I'm blogging on this new site. I do need some help though. I don't know how to lonk with others of our family.
Last weekend was quite full. Saturday we went to the Scherer's anniversary celebration. It was a good time and we were happy to see all of the Scherer kids and grandkids there. It has been a long time since we saw some of them.
Sunday we went to the Aurora theater to see "Noises Off". That is one funny darn show. We were joined by Sue and another friend, Louise. Of course we went to "The Sweet Tomato" after the show.
Today Nancey has some appointments for Mamogram and stuff.
Love.

First blog

2008-05-11T18:31:00.000-07:00

Well, here I am at the new blog site and I just hope it is working.

Love to all