The storms last night left a path of destruction in the wake. I spent the better part of the day cleaning up and getting things back together.
Downed limbs, leaves everywhere and a pool mess of incredible proportions.
They say that more storms are due tonight.
At least we can clean up after these storms and do not have to rebuild like so many others are doing after the fires.
We are the lucky ones after all because by mid-afternoon we were swimming in the pool to escape from the heat.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Friday, June 29, 2012
Remind me Again, It's a Celebration, right?
I have been reminded this week that change, in the form of retirement, is just as scary for those left behind as it is for those who are retiring.
Sure, it is a lot more traumatic for the retiree--but to those who have to go back to work Monday morning and face the empty office, it can be a lot like having attended a funeral rather than a celebration. And I believe that funerals are celebrations, too.
There is a lot of joy for the person who successfully made it to the ed of a stellar career and gets to enjoy the next best part of life without having to get up at Oh-dark-thirty, before the birds even wake up, to ply the choked highways and make their rush hour impeded way to the job site. I am really happy that someday, too, I will be able to stay home instead of forcing my ever dragging self out of bed.
But the grief of the loss of a great leader or a good friend, left unchecked, could turn the celebration of a successful career into a morose funeral.
Yesterday, I attended the celebration of a career.
Speeches were given, mementos were presented, and pictures were taken to permanently record the moment.
And it was a celebration. It was exciting to attend and hear so many anecdotes about someone that I have worked closely with for the past three years as he coasts into the last day of his career. I even had the opportunity to add a story to the festivities.
But--Monday morning, the office across the hall will be empty and it will soon be filled by someone new.
Change is hard.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sure, it is a lot more traumatic for the retiree--but to those who have to go back to work Monday morning and face the empty office, it can be a lot like having attended a funeral rather than a celebration. And I believe that funerals are celebrations, too.
There is a lot of joy for the person who successfully made it to the ed of a stellar career and gets to enjoy the next best part of life without having to get up at Oh-dark-thirty, before the birds even wake up, to ply the choked highways and make their rush hour impeded way to the job site. I am really happy that someday, too, I will be able to stay home instead of forcing my ever dragging self out of bed.
But the grief of the loss of a great leader or a good friend, left unchecked, could turn the celebration of a successful career into a morose funeral.
Yesterday, I attended the celebration of a career.
Speeches were given, mementos were presented, and pictures were taken to permanently record the moment.
And it was a celebration. It was exciting to attend and hear so many anecdotes about someone that I have worked closely with for the past three years as he coasts into the last day of his career. I even had the opportunity to add a story to the festivities.
But--Monday morning, the office across the hall will be empty and it will soon be filled by someone new.
Change is hard.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Prayers for Today - June 28, 2012
1. For my nephew who is courageous in the face of a cancer enemy that is trying in every to defeat him in mind and body--that he will finally, this time, be victorious. Happy Birthday, although you are not at your home, may this be the last time you celebrate a birthday in the hospital.
2. For my brother in law and his family, and all of the people in the paths of the wildfires raging across the country--that their homes may be spared and that they may be safe.
3. For those who are in the middle of life changing decisions--like retirement, that as you look back on your years of service to the country, the school district, or whatever you are retiring from that you remember the joy that kept you motivated and the lives you changed for the better every day along the way.
4. For our military men and women deployed across the globe exposed to the chaos and hatred of the enemy in other lands, that they would be protected and brought safely home at the successful end of their deployments.
5. That I would be reminded of the blessings that I have been given in everything associated with my life and stop seeking more but would be more effective at using what I have.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
2. For my brother in law and his family, and all of the people in the paths of the wildfires raging across the country--that their homes may be spared and that they may be safe.
3. For those who are in the middle of life changing decisions--like retirement, that as you look back on your years of service to the country, the school district, or whatever you are retiring from that you remember the joy that kept you motivated and the lives you changed for the better every day along the way.
4. For our military men and women deployed across the globe exposed to the chaos and hatred of the enemy in other lands, that they would be protected and brought safely home at the successful end of their deployments.
5. That I would be reminded of the blessings that I have been given in everything associated with my life and stop seeking more but would be more effective at using what I have.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Freedom Wins a Victory
The Supreme Court in striking down three of the controversial Arizona immigration law provisions has helped ensure civil liberties and protection against unreasonable search and seizure remains the law of the land.
The assault on our personal freedoms continues unabated by well meaning legislators who just do not understand the ramifications of the "do gooding" laws that they are enacting. Controlling illegal immigration is one thing, but using unreasonable techniques--such as stopping people because they look different, are clearly not allowed.
While many of the laws seem to make sense on the surface or when they are proposed, by the time they are enacted they can serve as a springboard for abuse and severely limiting personal freedoms and protection.
I continue to be amazed at how we are willing to let our rights and Constitutional protections be limited by legislators who are looking for more ways to control us.
I think the special interest groups are out of control.
Thank goodness there still is a Supreme Court to make decisions about these things.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
The assault on our personal freedoms continues unabated by well meaning legislators who just do not understand the ramifications of the "do gooding" laws that they are enacting. Controlling illegal immigration is one thing, but using unreasonable techniques--such as stopping people because they look different, are clearly not allowed.
While many of the laws seem to make sense on the surface or when they are proposed, by the time they are enacted they can serve as a springboard for abuse and severely limiting personal freedoms and protection.
I continue to be amazed at how we are willing to let our rights and Constitutional protections be limited by legislators who are looking for more ways to control us.
I think the special interest groups are out of control.
Thank goodness there still is a Supreme Court to make decisions about these things.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Who Turned Off Summer?
I remember writing last week about the heat and summer temperatures which had finally arrived in the region.
My pool was warming to a nice 85 degrees due to solar heating.
The night time temperatures were a warm 70 plus degrees.
And then this morning--my thermometer reads 55 degrees. And that is Fahrenheit not celsius!
Who turned off summer?
I'm not sure I can drive to work with Cat's top down. At a minimum I'll need to have the heat on! And a jacket.
What a weird weather pattern. The high today is supposed to be 79 degrees. That is only abut 15 degrees below normal. The beginning of the dog days are exactly a week away and we are having highs in the 70's. Something is definitely wrong.
I certainly hope summer returns before the weekend.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
My pool was warming to a nice 85 degrees due to solar heating.
The night time temperatures were a warm 70 plus degrees.
And then this morning--my thermometer reads 55 degrees. And that is Fahrenheit not celsius!
Who turned off summer?
I'm not sure I can drive to work with Cat's top down. At a minimum I'll need to have the heat on! And a jacket.
What a weird weather pattern. The high today is supposed to be 79 degrees. That is only abut 15 degrees below normal. The beginning of the dog days are exactly a week away and we are having highs in the 70's. Something is definitely wrong.
I certainly hope summer returns before the weekend.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, June 25, 2012
Monday Musings - June 25, 2012
1. I don't know ow they did it, but the Orioles scored a total of 5 runs during three games this weekend and managed to win two of them. Conversely, their opponents the Washington Nationals also scored only 5 runs over the same three games--but lost two of them..
2. The thought of vacation being less than two weeks away is exciting.
3. The fires in Colorado are much more personal as they are affecting people that we know. No loner are the fires happening over there, but they are far more real and we are watching their progress very carefully.
4. There is a beach somewhere with a chair waiting for me.
5. I read an interesting article about 10 brands that will disappear this year. American Airlines topped the list. Talbots and Pacific Sun Wear were also on the list. So was Avon.
6. The weather was fantastic this weekend.
7. I learned about imperatives and indicatives in church yesterday. Who knew we were gong to have a lesson in grammar while studying Colossians?
8. This is the last week of June--its passing is coming all too soon.
9. When the cats gather on the floor next to me it means only one thing--they are out of food!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
2. The thought of vacation being less than two weeks away is exciting.
3. The fires in Colorado are much more personal as they are affecting people that we know. No loner are the fires happening over there, but they are far more real and we are watching their progress very carefully.
4. There is a beach somewhere with a chair waiting for me.
5. I read an interesting article about 10 brands that will disappear this year. American Airlines topped the list. Talbots and Pacific Sun Wear were also on the list. So was Avon.
6. The weather was fantastic this weekend.
7. I learned about imperatives and indicatives in church yesterday. Who knew we were gong to have a lesson in grammar while studying Colossians?
8. This is the last week of June--its passing is coming all too soon.
9. When the cats gather on the floor next to me it means only one thing--they are out of food!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Summer Flowers
It is summer time. Even the calendar finally agrees that the best season of the year is finally and officially here.
This morning I noticed the bees working in the bee balm and honey suckle.
It was a sight as three or four bumblebees were working together gathering pollen. They were flying around with purpose--and best of all mostly ignoring me.
I enjoy the flowers. The bees also enjoy the flowers.
This year, since the flowers have been in place now for two full years, they are really taking off and filling in the area along the fence. I love the way they are growing together to create a bright spot filled with color.
l really enjoy summer mornings.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
This morning I noticed the bees working in the bee balm and honey suckle.
It was a sight as three or four bumblebees were working together gathering pollen. They were flying around with purpose--and best of all mostly ignoring me.
I enjoy the flowers. The bees also enjoy the flowers.
This year, since the flowers have been in place now for two full years, they are really taking off and filling in the area along the fence. I love the way they are growing together to create a bright spot filled with color.
l really enjoy summer mornings.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, June 23, 2012
On the Swing
Why is it that kids love to be pushed on a swing?
I stood behind the swing this morning pushing Lucas, and he really enjoyed the relaxed pendulum motion that it made.
I remember, I think, when I was small and I used to love being pushed on a swing.
And see-saws.
I was the biggest so I usually had to have two other smaller kids off set my weight--but I remember the up and down motion as being tranquilizing.
I could swing or play on the see-saw for hours it seems--although I know that it was only minutes.
Although little is said--there is interaction. People working together for enjoyment and relaxation.
Not like today when we play games in solitary life on computers never seeing, or possibly even knowing our opponent.
The swing--I'm too big now to enjoy them like I did when I was small. But I now know that all of life's problems melt away on the swing or see-saw.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I stood behind the swing this morning pushing Lucas, and he really enjoyed the relaxed pendulum motion that it made.
I remember, I think, when I was small and I used to love being pushed on a swing.
And see-saws.
I was the biggest so I usually had to have two other smaller kids off set my weight--but I remember the up and down motion as being tranquilizing.
I could swing or play on the see-saw for hours it seems--although I know that it was only minutes.
Although little is said--there is interaction. People working together for enjoyment and relaxation.
Not like today when we play games in solitary life on computers never seeing, or possibly even knowing our opponent.
The swing--I'm too big now to enjoy them like I did when I was small. But I now know that all of life's problems melt away on the swing or see-saw.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Friday, June 22, 2012
Nail in the Drive
There is the proverb of the horseshoe nail and how its loss change the course of the battle.
For want of a nail the shoe was lost.
For want of a shoe the horse was lost.
For want of a horse the rider was lost.
For want of a rider the message was lost.
For want of a message the battle was lost.
For want of a battle the kingdom was lost.
And all for the want of a horseshoe nail.
But what about just a common nail lying in the drive? As part of our reconstruction of the deck we have been carefully scanning the driveway for nails.
But what could a single nail alone in the drive way d?
I imagine it lying there, looking for a tire to pierce.
It is really that important?
Because of the nail in the driveway, the tire was flat
Because the tire was flat, the car couldn't drive
Because the car couldn't drive the driver was late to work
Because the driver was late to work, the meeting was missed
Because the meeting was missed, the driver was fired
All because of the nail in the driveway.
Maybe I'm making too much of this.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
For want of a nail the shoe was lost.
For want of a shoe the horse was lost.
For want of a horse the rider was lost.
For want of a rider the message was lost.
For want of a message the battle was lost.
For want of a battle the kingdom was lost.
And all for the want of a horseshoe nail.
But what about just a common nail lying in the drive? As part of our reconstruction of the deck we have been carefully scanning the driveway for nails.
But what could a single nail alone in the drive way d?
I imagine it lying there, looking for a tire to pierce.
It is really that important?
Because of the nail in the driveway, the tire was flat
Because the tire was flat, the car couldn't drive
Because the car couldn't drive the driver was late to work
Because the driver was late to work, the meeting was missed
Because the meeting was missed, the driver was fired
All because of the nail in the driveway.
Maybe I'm making too much of this.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Flags and Ships
I was awed over the weekend by the flags which fluttered in the wind while we visited the tall ships in Baltimore's Inner Harbor.
The sky was clear blue. And the flag that represented our young nation, fifteen stars and fifteen stripes, flew everywhere in Baltimore.
The day was perfect. It was a day to be outside doing something very different. And our flag was joined by the flags of other nations--celebrating the 200 years since the beginning f the war which finally secured our independence.
The crowds were crushing. So many other people wanted to be part of the celebration. I believe that a lot of people made the short trip from Philadelphia to spend the day. What a great history spot Philadelphia is. The place where our founding fathers made the decision to pledge their lives and fortunes to the idea of this great nation.
But the flags flew unhindered above everyone who came--those from near and far.
But these are only a few of those flags--of the nations represented in the Inner Harbor on that magical day.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Bring on the Heat
The pool is ready, the lawn is mowed. The floatie is inflated and ready to go. I test drove it in the pool yesterday.
Today and Thursday the temperatures are supposed to be in the high 90's. If only I didn't have to work. I see myself baking in the sun in my pool.
But alas--the reality of life is that I do not get to enjoy the first sultry days of summer. I must wait for the magical convergence of weather and the weekend.
But it is coming. I can feel it.
And so too, is the weekend.
Two weeks from tomorrow, I leave for vacation.
The beach is calling to me already.
And the heat brings relaxation, waves, sun, and time away for reflection and renewal.
How can that be bad?
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Today and Thursday the temperatures are supposed to be in the high 90's. If only I didn't have to work. I see myself baking in the sun in my pool.
But alas--the reality of life is that I do not get to enjoy the first sultry days of summer. I must wait for the magical convergence of weather and the weekend.
But it is coming. I can feel it.
And so too, is the weekend.
Two weeks from tomorrow, I leave for vacation.
The beach is calling to me already.
And the heat brings relaxation, waves, sun, and time away for reflection and renewal.
How can that be bad?
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Elbow Tales
Consider your elbow.
Kind of a weird thought isn't it?
I have been considering my elbow for a while now. And since my surgery two weeks ago, I have been thinking about it a lot more.
Let's begin with the problem: cubital tunnel syndrome. The referenced article provides a good overview.
Who knew? We have all heard of carpal tunnel syndrome--but now a new tunnel to worry about. And I don't mean the Lincoln Tunnel, either.
Well, I had the nerve damage part--so surgery was the best option.
The surgery went well and the recovery is going well, too--just slower than I would like. I had thought I would be playing racquetball again in three weeks--but the doctor wants me to wait six weeks because, fundamentally, racquetball and the stress it puts on my elbow significantly contributed to the problem.
So I wait. I do not want to be that "guy" and mess up the great work done in my elbow.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Kind of a weird thought isn't it?
I have been considering my elbow for a while now. And since my surgery two weeks ago, I have been thinking about it a lot more.
Let's begin with the problem: cubital tunnel syndrome. The referenced article provides a good overview.
Who knew? We have all heard of carpal tunnel syndrome--but now a new tunnel to worry about. And I don't mean the Lincoln Tunnel, either.
Well, I had the nerve damage part--so surgery was the best option.
The surgery went well and the recovery is going well, too--just slower than I would like. I had thought I would be playing racquetball again in three weeks--but the doctor wants me to wait six weeks because, fundamentally, racquetball and the stress it puts on my elbow significantly contributed to the problem.
So I wait. I do not want to be that "guy" and mess up the great work done in my elbow.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, June 18, 2012
Monday Musings - June 18, 2012
1. Father's Day 2012 is history--next up, Independence Day.
2. Family wine and cheese tastings are a lot of fun.
3. With the opening of the long-awaited Wegman's, the area finally has a grocery store which is as diverse as the people who live in the county.
4. Sunny afternoons with cooler temperatures and low humidity--can it get any better than this?
5. There is something exciting about seeing the Blue Angels streaking across the bay and around the area during their air shows.
6. Summer, by the way, officially begins this week. Stand by for the solstice and the longest day of the year.
7. Are you aware of the leap second on June 30th?
8. I ran across a revealing article about the 12 worst supermarkets in America. Too many of them are close to home. Who knew that Wegman's was the largest grocer in the nation with 22 percent of the market share?
9. Tall ships, fast jets, and a clear sky; can it get any better?
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
2. Family wine and cheese tastings are a lot of fun.
3. With the opening of the long-awaited Wegman's, the area finally has a grocery store which is as diverse as the people who live in the county.
4. Sunny afternoons with cooler temperatures and low humidity--can it get any better than this?
5. There is something exciting about seeing the Blue Angels streaking across the bay and around the area during their air shows.
6. Summer, by the way, officially begins this week. Stand by for the solstice and the longest day of the year.
7. Are you aware of the leap second on June 30th?
8. I ran across a revealing article about the 12 worst supermarkets in America. Too many of them are close to home. Who knew that Wegman's was the largest grocer in the nation with 22 percent of the market share?
9. Tall ships, fast jets, and a clear sky; can it get any better?
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, June 17, 2012
I Survived the Wegman's Opening
Sailabration - Baltimore
Baltimore is in the midst of celebrating the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and the Star Spangled Banner. The two year commemoration is kicking off with the Sailabration this weekend aroound the Baltimore Inner Harbor.
I had fun attending the Sailabration yesterday and enjoying the tall ships and the crowds and the air show.
The celebration brought tall ships from around the world into the harbor for viewing--and the crowds yesterday were there to view them along with us.
The ship from Mexico was a beautiful sight sitting along side the inner harbor from a distance. We actually visited a ship from Indonesia.
But I was fascinated by the flags and the people I met. During the course of the day I stod n line next to Tim Tooten, a TV personality from Channel 11 who we watch all the time. He was visiting with his wife just enjoying the day.
Wandering around the inner harbor, amazingly and without a huge entourage, was the governor--Martin O'Malley, and I got to shake his hand and say "hi" to him. I did not ask him why he can't manage the state better, though.
In addition to the ships, there was an air show and fireworks later in the evening. We did not stay for the fireworks, but did see some of the air show.
We actually had a god spot t see some of the airshow and I was nice to see the aviators flying their machines demonstrating their proficiency and seemingly defying gravity.
It was a fabulous day in Baltimore. The Sailabration is well worth the time aand effort to attend as the weather has been nothing short of awesome.
Oops, I did forget the sunscreen, so I got a bit over cooked.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I had fun attending the Sailabration yesterday and enjoying the tall ships and the crowds and the air show.
The celebration brought tall ships from around the world into the harbor for viewing--and the crowds yesterday were there to view them along with us.
The ship from Mexico was a beautiful sight sitting along side the inner harbor from a distance. We actually visited a ship from Indonesia.
But I was fascinated by the flags and the people I met. During the course of the day I stod n line next to Tim Tooten, a TV personality from Channel 11 who we watch all the time. He was visiting with his wife just enjoying the day.
Wandering around the inner harbor, amazingly and without a huge entourage, was the governor--Martin O'Malley, and I got to shake his hand and say "hi" to him. I did not ask him why he can't manage the state better, though.
In addition to the ships, there was an air show and fireworks later in the evening. We did not stay for the fireworks, but did see some of the air show.
We actually had a god spot t see some of the airshow and I was nice to see the aviators flying their machines demonstrating their proficiency and seemingly defying gravity.
It was a fabulous day in Baltimore. The Sailabration is well worth the time aand effort to attend as the weather has been nothing short of awesome.
Oops, I did forget the sunscreen, so I got a bit over cooked.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, June 16, 2012
The Overnight
Three grandsons and an overnight. From 5:30 pm we were the effective parents of three boys under age 8.
It brings back fond memories of times gone by watching three excitable boys.
Really? No.
Thank goodness for a pool to keep them amused and to tire them out. Followed by pizza and a movie--then thankfully, bed! I did get to reprise my role as surfboard pop-pop while we were in the pool.
I should have known that morning would come early though. I think it was before 6 am when the first one rose with the brightening rays of the sun. By 7 am--they were all up and getting back to the business of the day--eating, watching movies, and playing.
Such a great life. Donuts, movies, and doting grandparents.
How do I sign up for that?
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
It brings back fond memories of times gone by watching three excitable boys.
Really? No.
Thank goodness for a pool to keep them amused and to tire them out. Followed by pizza and a movie--then thankfully, bed! I did get to reprise my role as surfboard pop-pop while we were in the pool.
I should have known that morning would come early though. I think it was before 6 am when the first one rose with the brightening rays of the sun. By 7 am--they were all up and getting back to the business of the day--eating, watching movies, and playing.
Such a great life. Donuts, movies, and doting grandparents.
How do I sign up for that?
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Friday, June 15, 2012
Decks, Pools, and Summer
The deck project started on a whim two weeks ago has reached a milestone. The actual deck is complete thanks to the hard work of friends and family. I especially appreciate the way everyone continued on even after my elbow surgery effectively took me out of the game.
We did a little redesign work on the deck--so it looks at the same time different and better. It, at least, is ready for another 20 years of partying and enjoyment.
The only part of the project remaining is to reconstruct the stairs--and that is on hold until I am cleared by my very conservative doctor to resume swinging a hammer and playing racquetball.
It is all good though.
The deck still needs a coat of protective stain--but that is going to wait until the wood drys out and will actually allow the stain to soak into it.
The improved view of the pol area that the redesigned deck rails provides is very nice. We have the perfect backyard--deck and pool. There is no better way to experience and enjoy the summertime.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
We did a little redesign work on the deck--so it looks at the same time different and better. It, at least, is ready for another 20 years of partying and enjoyment.
The only part of the project remaining is to reconstruct the stairs--and that is on hold until I am cleared by my very conservative doctor to resume swinging a hammer and playing racquetball.
It is all good though.
The deck still needs a coat of protective stain--but that is going to wait until the wood drys out and will actually allow the stain to soak into it.
The improved view of the pol area that the redesigned deck rails provides is very nice. We have the perfect backyard--deck and pool. There is no better way to experience and enjoy the summertime.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Old Times Remembered--Omaha
It was November 1983, Chris and I and the two (at that time) kids, Jeremy and Nicole, arrived to a cold and almost frozen Offutt AFB, near Omaha, Nebraska.
It was a different time. We had traveled from Shreveport, Louisiana, where I had just completed a the three year assignment to 8th Air Force at Barksdale AFB. I was an Air Force Captain and we were living pay check to pay check while raising a family and fulfilling my dream to be a vagabond Air Force officer. We were fortunate to move into base housing just before Thanksgiving and the arrival of snow and sub-zero temperatures. Two weeks later and the move in process would have been markedly different.
Although I was assigned to Offutt for two years, I spent only about 7 months actually living there. Te rest of the time was on the "road" seeing the world and living the dream.
I was reminded of all of this during the past few days as I revisited Offutt and was reminded of how things used to be. They say that you can never go back and, frankly, I'm glad that I never tried.
Omaha is a wholesome city. It is clean and surprisingly there is a lot to do and get involved with. The traffic at rush hour is non-existent--especially compared to the Baltimore-Washington corridor. But it is in the middle of the country and I am truly a coastal person. I love ocean beaches and it is a long way to the ocean from Nebraska.
Our family grew while did our two years in the Omaha area. Our cornhusker, Patrick, was born--so all things considered this short adventure on the road of life was a good one.
It is good to revisit and remember--but trying to go back usually ends in frustration and disappointment. It is hard to recreate the magic that resides in the mind when confronted with the realities of day-to-day life.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
It was a different time. We had traveled from Shreveport, Louisiana, where I had just completed a the three year assignment to 8th Air Force at Barksdale AFB. I was an Air Force Captain and we were living pay check to pay check while raising a family and fulfilling my dream to be a vagabond Air Force officer. We were fortunate to move into base housing just before Thanksgiving and the arrival of snow and sub-zero temperatures. Two weeks later and the move in process would have been markedly different.
Although I was assigned to Offutt for two years, I spent only about 7 months actually living there. Te rest of the time was on the "road" seeing the world and living the dream.
I was reminded of all of this during the past few days as I revisited Offutt and was reminded of how things used to be. They say that you can never go back and, frankly, I'm glad that I never tried.
Omaha is a wholesome city. It is clean and surprisingly there is a lot to do and get involved with. The traffic at rush hour is non-existent--especially compared to the Baltimore-Washington corridor. But it is in the middle of the country and I am truly a coastal person. I love ocean beaches and it is a long way to the ocean from Nebraska.
Our family grew while did our two years in the Omaha area. Our cornhusker, Patrick, was born--so all things considered this short adventure on the road of life was a good one.
It is good to revisit and remember--but trying to go back usually ends in frustration and disappointment. It is hard to recreate the magic that resides in the mind when confronted with the realities of day-to-day life.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
People in the Airport -- Chicago O'Hare
It was fun stoping over for an hour the yesterday in Chicago. I was able to watch a Lufthansa 747 board for departure to Frankfurt while waiting for my own flight. I also spent some time watching ramp operations and the apparent chaos that somehow seems orchestrated to ensure bad things do not happen.
People were everywhere, I had forgotten how many people a 747 carries.
Children clinging to parents. People from foreign lands. A cross section of humanity.
One little boy was very brave, walking away from his parents for a few minutes. But there was no panic. He was a cute two years old and not afraid of anything. The onlookers were more concerned about his welfare. But there was nothing to worry about as his mother was always within sight of the adventurous lad.
I enjoy passing through Chicago. It is alive and there is always something happening.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
People were everywhere, I had forgotten how many people a 747 carries.
Children clinging to parents. People from foreign lands. A cross section of humanity.
One little boy was very brave, walking away from his parents for a few minutes. But there was no panic. He was a cute two years old and not afraid of anything. The onlookers were more concerned about his welfare. But there was nothing to worry about as his mother was always within sight of the adventurous lad.
I enjoy passing through Chicago. It is alive and there is always something happening.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Out the Hotel Window - Omaha, NE
I was treated to an explosive evening my first night in Omaha. The sky was alive with a massive thunder storm which seemed to never end.
The rain swept through the city and created a scene like an impressionist painting outside my window.
The lights were blurred like a scene from a French painting. Although I did not make it to the Old Market due to the rain--but it was a fun scene to watch with the lightening illuminating the rain swept streets at irregular intervals.
And all of it was just outside my hotel window.
-- Bob Doan, Omaha, NE
The rain swept through the city and created a scene like an impressionist painting outside my window.
The lights were blurred like a scene from a French painting. Although I did not make it to the Old Market due to the rain--but it was a fun scene to watch with the lightening illuminating the rain swept streets at irregular intervals.
And all of it was just outside my hotel window.
-- Bob Doan, Omaha, NE
Monday, June 11, 2012
Monday Musings - June 11, 2012
1. A beautiful, hot weekend and lots of fun near the pool because I couldn't actually get into it yet.
2. Traveling for business on a Sunday is no fun. Especially during the mid-day. Note to self for the future.
3. I am amazed how resilient the human body is, I looked at my arm after the wrappings were removed and was shocked at what I saw--but it worked. I was able to pour a bottle of wine with my left hand already! And that's how I noticed there was a problem to begin with.
4. The deck project is at a halt due to my recovery--but I expect it to be done by weekend.
5. Changes are hard. This is the month that my boss retires and I, with the thought of that, already miss him.
6. July is coming and so is my trek to Florida for relaxation. Bring on the sun and the heat--it's summer!
7. As I was flying yesterday, I was amazed again at the vastness of this fantastic land.
8. I wonder if there are any vineyards in Omaha.
9. Have any one else noticed that the airlines are leaving the seatbelt lights on more than they used too? They were on for the entire duration of both of my flights yesterday.
-- Bob Doan, Omaha, NE
2. Traveling for business on a Sunday is no fun. Especially during the mid-day. Note to self for the future.
3. I am amazed how resilient the human body is, I looked at my arm after the wrappings were removed and was shocked at what I saw--but it worked. I was able to pour a bottle of wine with my left hand already! And that's how I noticed there was a problem to begin with.
4. The deck project is at a halt due to my recovery--but I expect it to be done by weekend.
5. Changes are hard. This is the month that my boss retires and I, with the thought of that, already miss him.
6. July is coming and so is my trek to Florida for relaxation. Bring on the sun and the heat--it's summer!
7. As I was flying yesterday, I was amazed again at the vastness of this fantastic land.
8. I wonder if there are any vineyards in Omaha.
9. Have any one else noticed that the airlines are leaving the seatbelt lights on more than they used too? They were on for the entire duration of both of my flights yesterday.
-- Bob Doan, Omaha, NE
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Civil Rights Alert: Going Way Too Far -- Soda and NYC
I know it has been in the news for a while, but I am in shock that the goody goody forces in our society are about to legislate to protect us from another evil--sugar containing soft drinks larger that 16 ounces. The article I've hyperlinked here explains it all.
To think that banning large sugary drinks will reduce obesity is unbelievable. That would mean that large sugary drinks cause obesity. They don't--by themselves. Obesity is either a medical condition or a life style choice.
The goody goodies are putting efforts in all of the wrong places. Will banning large sugary sodas reduce obesity? No. But it is an infringement on our rights to purchase products. How can they outlaw the sale of large sugary drinks but not tobacco products? The inconsistency screams for an answer.
The real problem is education, helping people make the correct choices, and providing alternatives for people to encourage healthy choices.
I do not think that the majority of society should have their rights further restricted because of the life choices of a minority. I also believe we are headed down a slippery slope by enacting oppressive legislation designed to protect a segment of the population from itself. I further found it interesting that NYC is going to be reducing arrests for possessing small amounts of marijuana. So it is possible, theoretically, to get arrested for having a large sugary drink but not a joint all while smoking a cigarette known to cause cancer. Hmmmm.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
To think that banning large sugary drinks will reduce obesity is unbelievable. That would mean that large sugary drinks cause obesity. They don't--by themselves. Obesity is either a medical condition or a life style choice.
The goody goodies are putting efforts in all of the wrong places. Will banning large sugary sodas reduce obesity? No. But it is an infringement on our rights to purchase products. How can they outlaw the sale of large sugary drinks but not tobacco products? The inconsistency screams for an answer.
The real problem is education, helping people make the correct choices, and providing alternatives for people to encourage healthy choices.
I do not think that the majority of society should have their rights further restricted because of the life choices of a minority. I also believe we are headed down a slippery slope by enacting oppressive legislation designed to protect a segment of the population from itself. I further found it interesting that NYC is going to be reducing arrests for possessing small amounts of marijuana. So it is possible, theoretically, to get arrested for having a large sugary drink but not a joint all while smoking a cigarette known to cause cancer. Hmmmm.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Sundown Annapolis
Yesterday ended in a manner I never expected. We were sitting on a sail boat in Annapolis harbor with friends drinking wine and eating brownies after having shared a scrumptious meal at a restaurant in town.
The harbor was calm and the wind was light and refreshing as we watched the pastel colors of the sunset appear over the city and slowly fade into darkness wit stars punctuating the night sky.
Wait, it wasn't supposed to be that way. We had planned dinner at our house with thoughts of drinking wine and watching the sun set from our own pool and backyard.
My how things can sometime change for the better, if we just can be flexible.
And enjoy the schedule changes that life tosses at us.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
The harbor was calm and the wind was light and refreshing as we watched the pastel colors of the sunset appear over the city and slowly fade into darkness wit stars punctuating the night sky.
Wait, it wasn't supposed to be that way. We had planned dinner at our house with thoughts of drinking wine and watching the sun set from our own pool and backyard.
My how things can sometime change for the better, if we just can be flexible.
And enjoy the schedule changes that life tosses at us.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Friday, June 8, 2012
Politics and Phone Calls
It happened again yesterday afternoon. The phone rang and when I answered it and confessed to being the person the caller was looking for, the presidential campaign support bite was applied to my wallet.
Money--and being advised that there are only 152 days left to the election. I suppose that means 152 more campaign calls.
My problem is that I don't know who I am going to vote for. My problem with the leading candidates is that the are running on platforms that seem to be nothing more than: beat the other guy because we don't want him to be president.
Where is the vision for the country? Where is the strategy? Where is the way ahead and how we are going to transform the system into a beneficial bi-partisan working government?
It isn't there and, therefore at least so far, neither is my vote.
The phone call ended fairly abruptly when I indicated that I might be voting for Mickey Mouse.
Good.
When the candidates give me something to support then my vote and my wallet will follow.
Until then, I think a cartoon character can do a better job.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Money--and being advised that there are only 152 days left to the election. I suppose that means 152 more campaign calls.
My problem is that I don't know who I am going to vote for. My problem with the leading candidates is that the are running on platforms that seem to be nothing more than: beat the other guy because we don't want him to be president.
Where is the vision for the country? Where is the strategy? Where is the way ahead and how we are going to transform the system into a beneficial bi-partisan working government?
It isn't there and, therefore at least so far, neither is my vote.
The phone call ended fairly abruptly when I indicated that I might be voting for Mickey Mouse.
Good.
When the candidates give me something to support then my vote and my wallet will follow.
Until then, I think a cartoon character can do a better job.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Learning New Tricks
I have been rediscovering the joy/frustration of learning old tasks over again as a result of my elbow surgery.
For instance--have you recently brushed your teeth with your non-dominant hand in control of the toothbrush? I have. It is amazing how differently my mouth felt.
Another fun task is buttering my toast without the assistance of my trusty dominant hand. Ugh. I cheated on this one after making an incredible mess.
Sadly, I have been taking my non-dominant arm and hand for granted, I realized. All of the important work was being accomplished by the experienced and coordinated dominant (left) hand.
I did enjoy my first razor shave delivered by someone else--my daughter-in-law.
For all of the new experiences though, I cannot wait until I can fall back into my comfortable rut of completing simple tasks without thinking about them. And I long to have my right arm and hand returned into the comfortable role of non-dominant yet capable second.
Sooner would be better.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
For instance--have you recently brushed your teeth with your non-dominant hand in control of the toothbrush? I have. It is amazing how differently my mouth felt.
Another fun task is buttering my toast without the assistance of my trusty dominant hand. Ugh. I cheated on this one after making an incredible mess.
Sadly, I have been taking my non-dominant arm and hand for granted, I realized. All of the important work was being accomplished by the experienced and coordinated dominant (left) hand.
I did enjoy my first razor shave delivered by someone else--my daughter-in-law.
For all of the new experiences though, I cannot wait until I can fall back into my comfortable rut of completing simple tasks without thinking about them. And I long to have my right arm and hand returned into the comfortable role of non-dominant yet capable second.
Sooner would be better.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Pill Bottles--A Sadistic Puzzle
I had an experience the other evening. I attempted to open the pills that the pharmacy put my pain pills in.
I couldn't.
It was that simple. After my elbow surgery there was no way for me to get though the child proof caps to obtain one of the pills I needed after my surgery.
It was kind of weird.
The surgery was successful, but the pain meds were being kept from me.
Who comes up with these ideas.
Thank goodness Chris foresaw this problem and we developed a work around before I was left alone to access the pill bottles with a hammer.
We are being victimized by too much packaging.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I couldn't.
It was that simple. After my elbow surgery there was no way for me to get though the child proof caps to obtain one of the pills I needed after my surgery.
It was kind of weird.
The surgery was successful, but the pain meds were being kept from me.
Who comes up with these ideas.
Thank goodness Chris foresaw this problem and we developed a work around before I was left alone to access the pill bottles with a hammer.
We are being victimized by too much packaging.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Clean your Bathroom
I read an interesting news article yesterday which really made me shake my head. The article is titled Jesus Found in Texas Bathroom Mold. The article has an image of the mold included in it.
To say that I was shocked by the title of the article is an understatement. Really? Jesus of the bathroom mold?
Some of the article reads as follows:
SPLENDORA, Texas, May 31 (UPI) -- A Texas family says they are getting strength from an image of Jesus they found in the mold growing inside the shower of their home.
Chyanna Richards, who lives in the home, told KTRK-TV, Houston, she doesn't know if it's mold or mildew in the bathroom but said the appearance of Jesus' image has meaning.
"Maybe it means something. Maybe look into yourself and see if you need to change something in your life," she said.
The mold began growing in the bathroom at the Splendora home a couple months ago when Thomas George, who lives in the home, was in prison.
"He's just watching over us to make sure nothing wrong happens or I get in trouble and go back," George said. "It gives me inspiration just to do better."
Here's a thought--clean your bathroom and go to church. Really, who should have enough mold in their bathroom to see images in it? And then they must think everyone has large quantities of mold.
By some strong bathroom cleaner and seek the living Jesus where he may be found--and not the one in the mold.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
To say that I was shocked by the title of the article is an understatement. Really? Jesus of the bathroom mold?
Some of the article reads as follows:
SPLENDORA, Texas, May 31 (UPI) -- A Texas family says they are getting strength from an image of Jesus they found in the mold growing inside the shower of their home.
Chyanna Richards, who lives in the home, told KTRK-TV, Houston, she doesn't know if it's mold or mildew in the bathroom but said the appearance of Jesus' image has meaning.
"Maybe it means something. Maybe look into yourself and see if you need to change something in your life," she said.
The mold began growing in the bathroom at the Splendora home a couple months ago when Thomas George, who lives in the home, was in prison.
"He's just watching over us to make sure nothing wrong happens or I get in trouble and go back," George said. "It gives me inspiration just to do better."
Here's a thought--clean your bathroom and go to church. Really, who should have enough mold in their bathroom to see images in it? And then they must think everyone has large quantities of mold.
By some strong bathroom cleaner and seek the living Jesus where he may be found--and not the one in the mold.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, June 4, 2012
Monday Musings - June 4, 2012
1. A beautiful weekend spent outside working on the deck. We got a lot accomplished. There is still a lot to do.
2. The Orioles are beginning their mid-season slide.
3. Good friends, hard work, something accomplished is the sign of a good weekend.
4. I had this idea that if we had part time legislators then we would have fewer nuisance laws being passed--but then I recalled the latest session of the Maryland Legislature when they failed to address the big item, the budget, and had to be called back for a special session to raise taxes to fix the budget.
5. Deconstruction and construction projects create a lot of mess. Here is the first load ready to head off to the landfill.
6. Here is the pile still waiting to be loaded for transport.
7. We have a catbird that had adopted our backyard as his play area. Although this seems nice, who knew that catbird's were so noisy?
8. I enjoy the sounds of the morning. Birds singing in the trees broken only by the sounds of planes overhead and cars revving their engines along with the occasional siren headed off to an emergency somewhere are a symphony of life.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
2. The Orioles are beginning their mid-season slide.
3. Good friends, hard work, something accomplished is the sign of a good weekend.
4. I had this idea that if we had part time legislators then we would have fewer nuisance laws being passed--but then I recalled the latest session of the Maryland Legislature when they failed to address the big item, the budget, and had to be called back for a special session to raise taxes to fix the budget.
5. Deconstruction and construction projects create a lot of mess. Here is the first load ready to head off to the landfill.
6. Here is the pile still waiting to be loaded for transport.
7. We have a catbird that had adopted our backyard as his play area. Although this seems nice, who knew that catbird's were so noisy?
8. I enjoy the sounds of the morning. Birds singing in the trees broken only by the sounds of planes overhead and cars revving their engines along with the occasional siren headed off to an emergency somewhere are a symphony of life.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Little Project gone Huge
It happened yesterday. What started as a smallish, spur of the moment while standing in Lowe's project to replace some old deck boards became a major deconstruction and construction project. It doesn't look as bad as it really is.
Fortunately, I have help--but when a project goes from a two day project and grows into a weeks or more project it can be demoralizing.
Originally, it was just some bad boards. Then it was all of the deck boards. The it was the stairs and railings too.
To top it all off, the first board took over an hour just to get away from the house--it was heavily glued. Persistence won out. Most of the other boards are coming out in pieces--that is how badly they have deteriorated.
Along the way we stumbled into a major ant civilization that had adopted a portion of the deck as their planet. Sadly (for them), they have been eliminated.
Day 2 is at hand! After buying more materials.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Fortunately, I have help--but when a project goes from a two day project and grows into a weeks or more project it can be demoralizing.
Originally, it was just some bad boards. Then it was all of the deck boards. The it was the stairs and railings too.
To top it all off, the first board took over an hour just to get away from the house--it was heavily glued. Persistence won out. Most of the other boards are coming out in pieces--that is how badly they have deteriorated.
Along the way we stumbled into a major ant civilization that had adopted a portion of the deck as their planet. Sadly (for them), they have been eliminated.
Day 2 is at hand! After buying more materials.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, June 2, 2012
People and Medical Issues
I have been talking to people a lot about medical issues and procedures lately. The ailments range from damaged shoulders (mine included), to elbows (surgery on Monday), and bladders and prostrates (not mine). I have also talked to people about cancer and heart issues (also not mine), joint replacements (not mine) and visited an allergist who proclaimed that I am a very allergic person. I personally have seen more doctors during the past few months than I probably have during the past 10 years.
What does it all mean? I and my friends and family are getting old.
That is my conclusion. Old people talk about their next medical issue or appointment. Ugh!
There has to be more to life than growing old and going from one doctor to another with a steady and growing stream of medical and health issues.
And I know that there are other things to talk about. This week for instance--I enjoyed some racquetball matches where I am slowly becoming competitive again, I did a lot of work around the house--it seems that there is always more to do, and I had a busy and productive week at work. I also enjoyed time on the beach and some fabulous wines.
But what do I seem to want to talk about? My upcoming medical procedure!
Ugh!
Old!
I'm going to try to do better today and tonight with my friends. I resolve that are going to talk about something else--like the taboo topics of politics and religion?
Maybe not, we'll see.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
What does it all mean? I and my friends and family are getting old.
That is my conclusion. Old people talk about their next medical issue or appointment. Ugh!
There has to be more to life than growing old and going from one doctor to another with a steady and growing stream of medical and health issues.
And I know that there are other things to talk about. This week for instance--I enjoyed some racquetball matches where I am slowly becoming competitive again, I did a lot of work around the house--it seems that there is always more to do, and I had a busy and productive week at work. I also enjoyed time on the beach and some fabulous wines.
But what do I seem to want to talk about? My upcoming medical procedure!
Ugh!
Old!
I'm going to try to do better today and tonight with my friends. I resolve that are going to talk about something else--like the taboo topics of politics and religion?
Maybe not, we'll see.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Friday, June 1, 2012
Welcome June
Summer is upon us.
Finally!
After the starts and stops during April and May, the heat has arrived, the beaches and pools are open, and the mosquitos are dive bombing at me for dinner.
May was an incredibly busy month. June promises more of the same.
June is rapidly becoming one of my favorite months of the year--it is when Summer officially arrives although everyone knows it has been summer in my head since Baseball Opening Day. June is when schools close for the summer and the beaches become crowded--except in Florida.
My pool is ready to face the challenges of another summer season--I know that I am going to give it quite a workout.
So as I shake the last grains of May dust off my feet, I look forward to a June filled with warmth, pool/water activities, friends, and vacations. And I wonder what twill be the special memory from this summer.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Finally!
After the starts and stops during April and May, the heat has arrived, the beaches and pools are open, and the mosquitos are dive bombing at me for dinner.
May was an incredibly busy month. June promises more of the same.
June is rapidly becoming one of my favorite months of the year--it is when Summer officially arrives although everyone knows it has been summer in my head since Baseball Opening Day. June is when schools close for the summer and the beaches become crowded--except in Florida.
My pool is ready to face the challenges of another summer season--I know that I am going to give it quite a workout.
So as I shake the last grains of May dust off my feet, I look forward to a June filled with warmth, pool/water activities, friends, and vacations. And I wonder what twill be the special memory from this summer.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
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