Saturday evening was spent at the Baltimore Symphony reliving the music of the 60s and enjoying old memories.
After a day of shopping, work, and sports what could be better?
And the Baltimore Symphony does it best. They put on a great show that truly spanned the decade. Although they almost forgot the Beach Boys, they did get them in.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Friday, May 18, 2012
Taxes and Lack of Representation
The governor of Maryland, Martin O'Malley, who has presidential aspirations, has succeeded in firmly placing Maryland into the top five states with the highest personal tax rates this week.
Did he do this himself? Well, essentially yes he did!
How, you might ask?
By creating a no fault situation in which no one needs to accept responsibility for raising taxes. The legislature will blame the governor for calling the special session and having no other alternative. The governor can correctly point out that it was the legislature which actually passed the bills raising the taxes.
But in my mind--they are both at fault for not managing the budget and the state better to have to resort to such oppressive tactics.
Here is the kicker--now Maryland will be going back to employers and having them begin withholding taxes at the new higher rate retroactive to the beginning of the year! The year is almost half completed.
I am amazed that so many elected officials can be oblivious to the consequences. This, after all, is an election year and as of right now my vote goes to anyone who voted against the tax increase.
The day of uneven and increasing tax rates must come to an end. It is simple--which taxpayers are fueling the economic recovery? I am becoming an advocate for a flat tax with no exemptions!
It is only May, and I know many people have short memories--but we have to remember the tax increases when we vote in November.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Did he do this himself? Well, essentially yes he did!
How, you might ask?
By creating a no fault situation in which no one needs to accept responsibility for raising taxes. The legislature will blame the governor for calling the special session and having no other alternative. The governor can correctly point out that it was the legislature which actually passed the bills raising the taxes.
But in my mind--they are both at fault for not managing the budget and the state better to have to resort to such oppressive tactics.
Here is the kicker--now Maryland will be going back to employers and having them begin withholding taxes at the new higher rate retroactive to the beginning of the year! The year is almost half completed.
I am amazed that so many elected officials can be oblivious to the consequences. This, after all, is an election year and as of right now my vote goes to anyone who voted against the tax increase.
The day of uneven and increasing tax rates must come to an end. It is simple--which taxpayers are fueling the economic recovery? I am becoming an advocate for a flat tax with no exemptions!
It is only May, and I know many people have short memories--but we have to remember the tax increases when we vote in November.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Oil and North Dakota
An article in the Wall Street Journal yesterday really intrigued me. North Dakota passed Alaska to become the number 2 oil producing state.
I guess I thought that Alaska had been the number one state all along. Turns out that Texas is the number 1 oil producing state.
It all goes to show how much oil the shale in North Dakota is capable of producing. And there may be even more in Ohio.
Contrary to what we have been led to believe, the U.S. is beginning to increase oil production. Can we meet our needs? Probably not.
But it is an interesting thought.
As the Wall Street Journal reports: North Dakota is likely to hold onto the No. 2 spot, as Alaska's output has steadily declined over the past decade. Six years ago, Alaska produced about eight times more oil than North Dakota.
Wow--we can continue to pollute our planet and deplete its resources for a few more decades.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I guess I thought that Alaska had been the number one state all along. Turns out that Texas is the number 1 oil producing state.
It all goes to show how much oil the shale in North Dakota is capable of producing. And there may be even more in Ohio.
Contrary to what we have been led to believe, the U.S. is beginning to increase oil production. Can we meet our needs? Probably not.
But it is an interesting thought.
As the Wall Street Journal reports: North Dakota is likely to hold onto the No. 2 spot, as Alaska's output has steadily declined over the past decade. Six years ago, Alaska produced about eight times more oil than North Dakota.
Wow--we can continue to pollute our planet and deplete its resources for a few more decades.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Frustration on the Court
My racquetball has been awful lately. And I mean totally miserable. It is following the problems going on in my life with my shoulder and now my cubital tunnel syndrome.
But worse, I am not moving and seeing the ball--it is like I am playing in slow motion.
Last night I got smoked like I wasn't even on the court.
I am frustrated. To say that I definitely do not have the "eye of the tiger" right now would be a understatement.
Playing so miserably really takes the fun out of the game. I hate losing--don't get me wrong, but losing when I am playing well is a lot more palatable than just acting like road kill on the court.
I am like road kill.
But I keep playing because I figure there is no way to get out of a funk unless I keep trying. Every day is a new day. Maybe it is just like an extended hitting slump that some baseball players go through.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
But worse, I am not moving and seeing the ball--it is like I am playing in slow motion.
Last night I got smoked like I wasn't even on the court.
I am frustrated. To say that I definitely do not have the "eye of the tiger" right now would be a understatement.
Playing so miserably really takes the fun out of the game. I hate losing--don't get me wrong, but losing when I am playing well is a lot more palatable than just acting like road kill on the court.
I am like road kill.
But I keep playing because I figure there is no way to get out of a funk unless I keep trying. Every day is a new day. Maybe it is just like an extended hitting slump that some baseball players go through.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Rain, rain, and did I say more rain?
Yesterday was one of those days that we actually need every so often. Rain to replenish the earth and continue the springtime growth.
My lawn is growing out of control--I am not looking forward to trying to get it back under control. If only I had a lawn mower--mine is still in the shop. But the lawn is too wet to mow right now, anyway.
Rain is necessary to keep the growth and green going.
It is still raining this morning and promises to be a wet and dreary day. Not that that matters as I work under the cold, uncaring glow of fluorescent lighting.
Makayla hates the rain. She won't go out in the yard to do her business and it almost comical to watch her try to find a dry place under the bushes to pause for her morning constitutional.
The drive to work should be especially trying--the roads tend to clog when it rains and the impatient drivers push the tolerance of the rest of us by trying to creat speed where none should exist.
Uncaring, the rain will continue to fall.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
My lawn is growing out of control--I am not looking forward to trying to get it back under control. If only I had a lawn mower--mine is still in the shop. But the lawn is too wet to mow right now, anyway.
Rain is necessary to keep the growth and green going.
It is still raining this morning and promises to be a wet and dreary day. Not that that matters as I work under the cold, uncaring glow of fluorescent lighting.
Makayla hates the rain. She won't go out in the yard to do her business and it almost comical to watch her try to find a dry place under the bushes to pause for her morning constitutional.
The drive to work should be especially trying--the roads tend to clog when it rains and the impatient drivers push the tolerance of the rest of us by trying to creat speed where none should exist.
Uncaring, the rain will continue to fall.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, May 14, 2012
Monday Musings - May 14, 2012
1. It is not just about grapes, but it is about wine.
2. Mother's Day is a celebration of life and love.
3. Cats and dogs living together.
4. Monday's come too soon and weekends are too short.
5. Why does it seem that for every new technology deployment we take one step forward and a half step backwards?
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
2. Mother's Day is a celebration of life and love.
3. Cats and dogs living together.
4. Monday's come too soon and weekends are too short.
5. Why does it seem that for every new technology deployment we take one step forward and a half step backwards?
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, May 13, 2012
A Day in the Vineyard
I spent a couple off hours yesterday wandering through the vineyards at Keswick in Virginia with the winemaker, Stephen, and the owner, Al.
We did a two hour walking tour that covered almost every aspect imaginable of vine growing and more importantly--wine making. My take away: It all begins in the vineyard.
Along the way we discussed soils, pests, sunlight and the hot and cool side of the vines. There was a fabulous discussion about pruning the vines and even how many vines are planted in an acre (900). We even had the opportunity to discuss the process of changing over the grapes grown by the winery and discovered that Keswick is no longer growing malbec, replanting that block with merlot and experimenting with vine density.
Along with the discussion of the vines and growing, of course, was sampling the end product. Along the walk, strategically placed coolers of wine and barrel samples were positioned to help remind us of what the end product--wine, is all about.
It is not about growing grapes, it is about making wine. I heard that somewhere.
-- Bob Doan, Charlottesville, VA
We did a two hour walking tour that covered almost every aspect imaginable of vine growing and more importantly--wine making. My take away: It all begins in the vineyard.
Along the way we discussed soils, pests, sunlight and the hot and cool side of the vines. There was a fabulous discussion about pruning the vines and even how many vines are planted in an acre (900). We even had the opportunity to discuss the process of changing over the grapes grown by the winery and discovered that Keswick is no longer growing malbec, replanting that block with merlot and experimenting with vine density.
Along with the discussion of the vines and growing, of course, was sampling the end product. Along the walk, strategically placed coolers of wine and barrel samples were positioned to help remind us of what the end product--wine, is all about.
It is not about growing grapes, it is about making wine. I heard that somewhere.
-- Bob Doan, Charlottesville, VA
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Ordinary but not Boring
I believe I live an ordinary life. It is not filled with the trials of being superstar or a heroic political leader (are there any out there anymore?) I blend into the background fabric of life and existence.
Yet, my life is not boring. No, in fact each day is filed with people who are fun and exciting to talk to and spend time with . My daily activities, while at times seemingly mundane, allow me to express my inner self and make a contribution which I believe is important.
Life can be ordinary--but it certainly does not need to be boring.
Would I really want a life that is not ordinary? I think not.
I do not long to live a life where my time is managed, my appearances monitored, and every word dissected for its true or double meaning.
I enjoy my life where early on a Saturday morning I can drink coffee, have my dog at my feet, and tap a few sentences on my iPad to help my make sense of what happened yesterday or what will be going on today. And not really worry if anyone else even that I am awake. A life where stopping to smell the flowers--or even notice them, does not make me late for some over inflated appointment.
Ordinary does not mean without purpose. Life has purpose, even more so when ordinary.
As I reflect on life and the meaning of the word ordinary--I believe that I strive to be ordinary.
Because hidden in the meaning of ordinary is the word normal and that is reassuring.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Yet, my life is not boring. No, in fact each day is filed with people who are fun and exciting to talk to and spend time with . My daily activities, while at times seemingly mundane, allow me to express my inner self and make a contribution which I believe is important.
Life can be ordinary--but it certainly does not need to be boring.
Would I really want a life that is not ordinary? I think not.
I do not long to live a life where my time is managed, my appearances monitored, and every word dissected for its true or double meaning.
I enjoy my life where early on a Saturday morning I can drink coffee, have my dog at my feet, and tap a few sentences on my iPad to help my make sense of what happened yesterday or what will be going on today. And not really worry if anyone else even that I am awake. A life where stopping to smell the flowers--or even notice them, does not make me late for some over inflated appointment.
Ordinary does not mean without purpose. Life has purpose, even more so when ordinary.
As I reflect on life and the meaning of the word ordinary--I believe that I strive to be ordinary.
Because hidden in the meaning of ordinary is the word normal and that is reassuring.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Friday, May 11, 2012
Sound of Silence
Although I often long for silence and serenity, there are times when silence is not the desired end state and actually signifies a problem.
Such a situation occurred last evening. The peace associated with my weekly experience aboard my lawn tractor communing with my lawn was broken as the tractor sputtered and died.
Silence.
Frustration.
An evening lost in trying to unsuccessfully troubleshoot the problem which has the tractor laying in many parts throughout my garage.
I know what is not working--but I can't get into it. Sounds like a new engine is needed. Ugh!
And the grass keeps growing.
Well is it Springtime. Maybe I'll buy a hay baler.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Such a situation occurred last evening. The peace associated with my weekly experience aboard my lawn tractor communing with my lawn was broken as the tractor sputtered and died.
Silence.
Frustration.
An evening lost in trying to unsuccessfully troubleshoot the problem which has the tractor laying in many parts throughout my garage.
I know what is not working--but I can't get into it. Sounds like a new engine is needed. Ugh!
And the grass keeps growing.
Well is it Springtime. Maybe I'll buy a hay baler.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Pool Joy in the Springtime
The pool has been open for almost two weeks already--and other than putting my feet into it, I have yet to enjoy except to look at it. I have spent time cleaning it and putting the chemicals into it to make the water perfect. Pools are really demanding when they are first opened--and mine is no exception.
But even tough I have not yet jumped into it, there is something peaceful about looking at a swimming pool waiting for the fun to begin.
Last evening I spent more time getting the pool ready, I used the blower to get the recently fallen leaves off the deck before the wind blew them into the water. I also confirmed that the chemicals are balanced--it wasn't as bad as I had been worried once I used a test strip that gave accurate results.
Aside from terrifying the cat, totally accidentally, while using the gas powered blower--it was a great afternoon. So far, by my unscientific count, I have spent about 9 hours working on the pool to get it ready and 0 hours in the pool swimming.
But I still enjoy just sitting outside, by the pool, thinking of 90 degrees and mid-summer refreshment.
Soon? I hope?
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
But even tough I have not yet jumped into it, there is something peaceful about looking at a swimming pool waiting for the fun to begin.
Last evening I spent more time getting the pool ready, I used the blower to get the recently fallen leaves off the deck before the wind blew them into the water. I also confirmed that the chemicals are balanced--it wasn't as bad as I had been worried once I used a test strip that gave accurate results.
Aside from terrifying the cat, totally accidentally, while using the gas powered blower--it was a great afternoon. So far, by my unscientific count, I have spent about 9 hours working on the pool to get it ready and 0 hours in the pool swimming.
But I still enjoy just sitting outside, by the pool, thinking of 90 degrees and mid-summer refreshment.
Soon? I hope?
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Cats and Dogs Get Jealous, Too
My cat, Riordin, and dog, Makayla, are extremely jealous of each other.
The more attention one of them gets, the more the other tries to get into the situation. It causes hilarious moments as the 35 pound dog attempts to become a lap dog and the cat tries to beg like a dog for things he doesn't even like.
It gets a bit over the top when the cat tries to sit on my keyboard while the dog is getting her head scratched. It gets even more humorous when Riordin is on my lap on the couch and Makayla jumps up and tries to get her head between my hand and Riordin. I know they like each other because there are no claws or screeching (as cats sometimes do) when this happens.
Well, at least life is mostly harmonious. The competition is friendly, or so it seems. They even play together at times--well Riordin takes a friendly swat at Makayla (with his claws retracted). Makayla has been known to give Riordin a friendly lick--although I think cats really hate that.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
The more attention one of them gets, the more the other tries to get into the situation. It causes hilarious moments as the 35 pound dog attempts to become a lap dog and the cat tries to beg like a dog for things he doesn't even like.
It gets a bit over the top when the cat tries to sit on my keyboard while the dog is getting her head scratched. It gets even more humorous when Riordin is on my lap on the couch and Makayla jumps up and tries to get her head between my hand and Riordin. I know they like each other because there are no claws or screeching (as cats sometimes do) when this happens.
Well, at least life is mostly harmonious. The competition is friendly, or so it seems. They even play together at times--well Riordin takes a friendly swat at Makayla (with his claws retracted). Makayla has been known to give Riordin a friendly lick--although I think cats really hate that.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Cemeteries and Memories
Standing in the family cemetery yesterday morning with so many of my extended family brought back memories of having been there before. Too recently, I had stood in nearly the same spot thinking about the fragility of life and the end that I will someday face.
The minister's words of comfort and of the assurance of hope were almost overcome by the grief of the moment. I believe those words and I know they are true--I just wish I didn't have to experience these times in order to really deal with my hope in the future. I can't understand why we have to experience such soul wrenching sorrow in order to be convinced of the promise of eternity.
After the reason for which we had gathered, I was privileged to walk with my Mom around that cemetery to revisit the final resting places of many relatives. I remembered happy days and parties and celebrations. I thought about a trip to the old, now gone truck factory with an uncle. I remembered visits to great-grandma's house when I was a young boy. One visit was during the Cuban Missile Crisis and I remember being scared by the discussion about missiles and the "bomb" that the adults were having.
Cemeteries are peaceful, by design. And our walk was satisfying and unhurried. The monuments all have a story about a life that they represent. Walking next to my Mom, I reconnected with my family and my history. As we walked, I also learned about many of her teachers and friends who have already passed.I heard stories about how they were related and how they had interacted. So many people and so many memories still alive in her mind and now mine. I have never been afraid of cemeteries and have always been in awe of the histories of the many lives that can be uncovered.
While often called the final resting places, I know that our loved ones are not there, they have moved on across the bridge into eternity. As a result, I prefer to think of cemeteries as a place to pause and find the stories waiting to be rediscovered and memories to be rekindled.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
The minister's words of comfort and of the assurance of hope were almost overcome by the grief of the moment. I believe those words and I know they are true--I just wish I didn't have to experience these times in order to really deal with my hope in the future. I can't understand why we have to experience such soul wrenching sorrow in order to be convinced of the promise of eternity.
After the reason for which we had gathered, I was privileged to walk with my Mom around that cemetery to revisit the final resting places of many relatives. I remembered happy days and parties and celebrations. I thought about a trip to the old, now gone truck factory with an uncle. I remembered visits to great-grandma's house when I was a young boy. One visit was during the Cuban Missile Crisis and I remember being scared by the discussion about missiles and the "bomb" that the adults were having.
Cemeteries are peaceful, by design. And our walk was satisfying and unhurried. The monuments all have a story about a life that they represent. Walking next to my Mom, I reconnected with my family and my history. As we walked, I also learned about many of her teachers and friends who have already passed.I heard stories about how they were related and how they had interacted. So many people and so many memories still alive in her mind and now mine. I have never been afraid of cemeteries and have always been in awe of the histories of the many lives that can be uncovered.
While often called the final resting places, I know that our loved ones are not there, they have moved on across the bridge into eternity. As a result, I prefer to think of cemeteries as a place to pause and find the stories waiting to be rediscovered and memories to be rekindled.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, May 7, 2012
Monday Musings - May 7, 2012
1. Extended family gatherings are a blessing and they happen too infrequently.
2. I went into a time warp driving north from Maryland. The trees are only just beginning to leaf.
3. Is it funny or scary when Makayla decides she needs to sit on my lap while I'm driving?
4. Don't look now, but the team from Baltimore has the best record in baseball and they just swept Boston in Fenway Park for the first time since 1994.
5. Why is it that the British royals still garner so much news in the U.S.?
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
2. I went into a time warp driving north from Maryland. The trees are only just beginning to leaf.
3. Is it funny or scary when Makayla decides she needs to sit on my lap while I'm driving?
4. Don't look now, but the team from Baltimore has the best record in baseball and they just swept Boston in Fenway Park for the first time since 1994.
5. Why is it that the British royals still garner so much news in the U.S.?
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Boys at Play
Saturday is a day for sports it seems. Soccer and lacrosse and baseball are the big sports in our area right now.
Yesterday morning, Jax had a soccer game and during the game Ethan and Lucas found entertainment on the local play ground. I did miss most of the game watching the boys play--but the day was warm and the sun bright so it wasn't all bad.
I am a bit sad that somehow we missed going to E's lacrosse game during the afternoon where he tallied two goals.
But we did get to spend the morning together and enjoy a nice lunch.
Then it was off t the house to work in the yards and around the pool. Why is it thought that there is always more work to do around the house on a nice day than there is time and energy to get it all done?
At least the morning was enjoyable.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Yesterday morning, Jax had a soccer game and during the game Ethan and Lucas found entertainment on the local play ground. I did miss most of the game watching the boys play--but the day was warm and the sun bright so it wasn't all bad.
I am a bit sad that somehow we missed going to E's lacrosse game during the afternoon where he tallied two goals.
But we did get to spend the morning together and enjoy a nice lunch.
Then it was off t the house to work in the yards and around the pool. Why is it thought that there is always more work to do around the house on a nice day than there is time and energy to get it all done?
At least the morning was enjoyable.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, May 5, 2012
From Disney to Danby
It is not just the miles--it is an entire lifetime and state of mind.
From Fantasyland and the carefree joys of childhood punctuated by happy stories and scary monsters, and into the reality of life and living.
A small town boy living in the big metropolitan area cheering for an "I think I can" baseball team who this year keep finding ways to win rather than discovering new and more painful ways to lose.
I know life can be simpler--but can it be better?
Family and friends make it all work day after day.
And the escape back to Fantasyland, whether Disney or the beach, provide the much needed pause in the middle of the frenetic pace of life.
Tomorrow I am off again to Danby and family. The counterpoint to Disney yet the same pause in the frenetic pace of life. There is no fantasy in Danby--just a rugged reality.
Maybe in their extreme difference they are almost the same, Disney and Danby.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
From Fantasyland and the carefree joys of childhood punctuated by happy stories and scary monsters, and into the reality of life and living.
A small town boy living in the big metropolitan area cheering for an "I think I can" baseball team who this year keep finding ways to win rather than discovering new and more painful ways to lose.
I know life can be simpler--but can it be better?
Family and friends make it all work day after day.
And the escape back to Fantasyland, whether Disney or the beach, provide the much needed pause in the middle of the frenetic pace of life.
Tomorrow I am off again to Danby and family. The counterpoint to Disney yet the same pause in the frenetic pace of life. There is no fantasy in Danby--just a rugged reality.
Maybe in their extreme difference they are almost the same, Disney and Danby.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Friday, May 4, 2012
Mowing the Lawn
Sometimes, it seems, mowing the lawn can be an important interlude in the cycle of the day's activities. Although technically work, there is so much more to mowing my lawn. It is a time to grasp how things are growing and developing.
Last evening, as I was mowing, I noticed the plums developing on my trees. They are growing bigger and I dream of harvesting them and enjoying their sweet taste. Truth is, the squirrels get to them before I do and I get to enjoy precious few of them. But I enjoy my plum trees--they are the first trees to blossom in the Spring and the first to fruit in the mid-summer.
I also noticed how the grasses around the pool are rapidly growing to achieve their full height and provide the privacy screen that I so enjoy.
Life has a way of getting out of control and the time spent mowing the lawn gives me the opportunity to review the activities of my life and get them back into their proper order.
To say that I look forward to mowing the lawn is not entirely correct, but I do appreciate the time to pause and reflect away from my phone and iPad. My mind is always turning while I am mowing--and when the task is completed and the mower is back into its spot in the garage, my life always seems to be a more organized.
No--I will not mow your lawn, too! One lawn a week is enough!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Last evening, as I was mowing, I noticed the plums developing on my trees. They are growing bigger and I dream of harvesting them and enjoying their sweet taste. Truth is, the squirrels get to them before I do and I get to enjoy precious few of them. But I enjoy my plum trees--they are the first trees to blossom in the Spring and the first to fruit in the mid-summer.
I also noticed how the grasses around the pool are rapidly growing to achieve their full height and provide the privacy screen that I so enjoy.
Life has a way of getting out of control and the time spent mowing the lawn gives me the opportunity to review the activities of my life and get them back into their proper order.
To say that I look forward to mowing the lawn is not entirely correct, but I do appreciate the time to pause and reflect away from my phone and iPad. My mind is always turning while I am mowing--and when the task is completed and the mower is back into its spot in the garage, my life always seems to be a more organized.
No--I will not mow your lawn, too! One lawn a week is enough!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Across the Bridge and Into Eternity
It is with a great deal of sadness that I report the passing of my Aunt Janice yesterday morning, after a short, incredibly sudden accident. Se was a faithful reader of my blog (one of my few) and the last surviving sibling of my Mom.
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to gather with the family around her bed on Monday night and to reminisce of our childhood and the closeness that we all used to share. I realized that I have become a bit distant--and we need to tighten up the bond that we call family.
I always looked for and enjoyed Aunt Janice's comments on my blog posts--she usually had something interesting to write. I enjoyed seeing her reaction to the items I wrote.
I have many fond memories of growing up and knowing her and all of my cousins--we never understood back then in the safe 60's (yup, I wrote it) how our lives would develop and how fragmented we would become as adults.
I read an awesome book a few months ago titled: Heaven is for Real. I highly recommend it. It made me cry for joy. Some of what was written within its pages comforts me now.
When standing on the edge of eternity, it is easy to wonder if it is all real. Yeah, it is.
A pastor once told me that death is a lot like moving and changing your address. You are still alive, you just don't live at the old house anymore. Although cell phones don't reach into heaven, yet.
To all my family--may God fill you with the peace of assurance and help to turn your mourning into gladness. (Jeremiah 31:13)
For me? I'll always remember her riding in my car last summer and how much she enjoyed it and remarked that it reminded her of when she was a teenager.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to gather with the family around her bed on Monday night and to reminisce of our childhood and the closeness that we all used to share. I realized that I have become a bit distant--and we need to tighten up the bond that we call family.
I always looked for and enjoyed Aunt Janice's comments on my blog posts--she usually had something interesting to write. I enjoyed seeing her reaction to the items I wrote.
I have many fond memories of growing up and knowing her and all of my cousins--we never understood back then in the safe 60's (yup, I wrote it) how our lives would develop and how fragmented we would become as adults.
I read an awesome book a few months ago titled: Heaven is for Real. I highly recommend it. It made me cry for joy. Some of what was written within its pages comforts me now.
When standing on the edge of eternity, it is easy to wonder if it is all real. Yeah, it is.
A pastor once told me that death is a lot like moving and changing your address. You are still alive, you just don't live at the old house anymore. Although cell phones don't reach into heaven, yet.
To all my family--may God fill you with the peace of assurance and help to turn your mourning into gladness. (Jeremiah 31:13)
For me? I'll always remember her riding in my car last summer and how much she enjoyed it and remarked that it reminded her of when she was a teenager.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Trees and Green Again
The bats were flying last evening as Chris and I sat out on in our outdoor living room to enjoy one of the first, nice evenings of Spring.
The trees have filled in the voids nicely and we again have our our own private piece of the world.
We reflected upon the events of the past couple of days and counted the blessings that we have been given for no good reason other than God loves us. I reflected upon the message in church on Sunday which reinforced the concept that God owns everything and gives me the use some things for my enjoyment and his pleasure.
What a perspective changer.
I enjoy the backyard that he has seen fit to surround with a leafy canopy of green.
I leaned forward to smell the honey locust blossoms on the breeze.
And smiled remembering the gardenias I found in Disney just over a week ago.
A world to enjoy, if only I would slow down.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
The trees have filled in the voids nicely and we again have our our own private piece of the world.
We reflected upon the events of the past couple of days and counted the blessings that we have been given for no good reason other than God loves us. I reflected upon the message in church on Sunday which reinforced the concept that God owns everything and gives me the use some things for my enjoyment and his pleasure.
What a perspective changer.
I enjoy the backyard that he has seen fit to surround with a leafy canopy of green.
I leaned forward to smell the honey locust blossoms on the breeze.
And smiled remembering the gardenias I found in Disney just over a week ago.
A world to enjoy, if only I would slow down.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Family in Action
What is family?
The people who stand with you during a crisis.
They also rejoice when good things happen. And very often they help make good things happen.
I was reminded of a bible verse, Job 2:13,where Jobs friends join him after calamity takes away his family and possessions. They sat with him for seven days and said nothing. That is hard to do. But they were there.
Presence--is more important than words. Being there is the best form of comfort.
Sometimes the best thing to say, is nothing at all.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
The people who stand with you during a crisis.
They also rejoice when good things happen. And very often they help make good things happen.
I was reminded of a bible verse, Job 2:13,where Jobs friends join him after calamity takes away his family and possessions. They sat with him for seven days and said nothing. That is hard to do. But they were there.
Presence--is more important than words. Being there is the best form of comfort.
Sometimes the best thing to say, is nothing at all.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, April 30, 2012
Monday Musings - April 30, 2012
1. April is over, already? It seems as if it only just arrived. And here comes May, wow!
2. The pool is open, bring on the 80 degree temperatures.
3. If I lived in Florida or south Texas, I wouldn't have to spend a whole day opening my pool. Anyone want to offer me a fairly good paying job in South Florida?
4. Families with members in very different places in their lives create natural tension.
5. Cats are wild cards. They do what they want.
6. The O's are in a tie for first place in the AL East with Tampa--and the best part is that they have a 1.5 game lead over the Yankees who they play tonight. O's fans may finally have a team to believe in.
7. Chili is a fun food and chili competitions bring out the best in cooks.
8. Vacation planning is constant it seems. I just returned from one and am already planning my next.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
2. The pool is open, bring on the 80 degree temperatures.
3. If I lived in Florida or south Texas, I wouldn't have to spend a whole day opening my pool. Anyone want to offer me a fairly good paying job in South Florida?
4. Families with members in very different places in their lives create natural tension.
5. Cats are wild cards. They do what they want.
6. The O's are in a tie for first place in the AL East with Tampa--and the best part is that they have a 1.5 game lead over the Yankees who they play tonight. O's fans may finally have a team to believe in.
7. Chili is a fun food and chili competitions bring out the best in cooks.
8. Vacation planning is constant it seems. I just returned from one and am already planning my next.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Thank-you Shout Outs
In reflecting on the logistics of my recent vacation, I realized that in there were a couple of people who, behind the scenes, worked really hard to make the experience a success--and they didn't even get to enjoy the "land the mouse built" in person.
So P&T -- thanks for getting up at 4:30 AM to drag us to the airport and watching the animals while we were away. I know Makayla appreciated the mini-vacation. And thank-you too for being there when we finally wandered back into the airport and dragging us home.
I know sometimes that I especially forget to thank the behind the scenes people who work hard and make things successful.
Thanks
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
So P&T -- thanks for getting up at 4:30 AM to drag us to the airport and watching the animals while we were away. I know Makayla appreciated the mini-vacation. And thank-you too for being there when we finally wandered back into the airport and dragging us home.
I know sometimes that I especially forget to thank the behind the scenes people who work hard and make things successful.
Thanks
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Green
The color of Spring. The color of life.
I really noticed how the leaves have filled out on the trees the other day as I was driving home from work and it seemed that the highway was nothing more than a trail leading into the forest.
Green is peaceful and provides the perfect counterpoint to the color of the sky. It also provides a great background for flowers. Like this gardenia I happened across while in Orlando last week.
I look out my window now and see full green trees and bushes. I live in seclusion now--apart from the world, protected by the screening of the leaves of green.
Bring on the green and let the outdoor living begin.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I really noticed how the leaves have filled out on the trees the other day as I was driving home from work and it seemed that the highway was nothing more than a trail leading into the forest.
Green is peaceful and provides the perfect counterpoint to the color of the sky. It also provides a great background for flowers. Like this gardenia I happened across while in Orlando last week.
I look out my window now and see full green trees and bushes. I live in seclusion now--apart from the world, protected by the screening of the leaves of green.
Bring on the green and let the outdoor living begin.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Friday, April 27, 2012
Fourth Amendment Alert
In Maryland police take DNA from accused suspects--who are not convicted without probable cause--and do not see that as wrong. The article Maryland Law Enforcement Agencies Still Taking DNA Samples, as reported in the Baltimore Sun, details the latest insidious assault upon our Fourth Amendment right to protection from unreasonable searchand seizure.
I have copied the Fourth Amendment here: The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.
The court told them to stop--and they haven't. I read an editorial, Court of Appeals vs CSI which thinks the practice is a justified expedient because they are solving other crimes by violating Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable search and seizure. Although the end (convicting perpetrators of crimes) seems to justify the means, it is still a violation of our rights.
The author writes, For starters, the majority opinion conflates the presumption of innocence afforded to a defendant prior to conviction with his expectation of privacy. Judges Mary Ellen Barbera and Alan M. Wilner correctly note in their dissent that arrestees' expectations of privacy are diminished in far more intrusive ways than the collection of DNA by means of a cotton swab rubbed for a few seconds inside their cheeks. They are subject to thorough searches of their bodies and possessions (including strip searches, an intrusion the Supreme Court recently blessed), and are observed in states of undress by police and fellow detainees while in jail.
But collection of DNA is an intrusion and a means to collect evidence without probable cause to be used against people--to convict them. The line between authorized intrusion for safety and security and intrusion with the intent to collect evidence may be a fine one--but it is a line that must be protected.
Sure it means the police have to work harder to develop probable cause--but hey, that is a good thing. The down side is that the erosion of Fourth Amendment protections will become so complete that ultimately our personal freedoms will be just a memory of what past generations used to have.
We must protect our rights and freedoms and be aware of the forces in our society and government which seem to want to protect us from ourselves.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Random Things
Today, some random things.
1. The neatest T-shirt phrase I've seen in a while: "Careful or you'll end up in my novel."
2. I walked about 122,846 steps in 8 days (according to Chris's pedometer). At 2200 steps to the mile, that is almost 56 miles in 8 days.
3. Disney employs 65,000 people--and they all smile (mostly).
4. I think Makayla was upset at me when I got home after my vacation--she walked by me and straight to Patrick. I felt very unloved.
5. Yesterday there were four teams tied for the MLB AL East lead; today only two and the Orioles are one of them! The Yankees aren't.
6. I saw the sign "Find of the Day," and thought it was good advice. Find something new, unique, or memorable about every day.
7. I am very dependent upon a good internet connection.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
1. The neatest T-shirt phrase I've seen in a while: "Careful or you'll end up in my novel."
2. I walked about 122,846 steps in 8 days (according to Chris's pedometer). At 2200 steps to the mile, that is almost 56 miles in 8 days.
3. Disney employs 65,000 people--and they all smile (mostly).
4. I think Makayla was upset at me when I got home after my vacation--she walked by me and straight to Patrick. I felt very unloved.
5. Yesterday there were four teams tied for the MLB AL East lead; today only two and the Orioles are one of them! The Yankees aren't.
6. I saw the sign "Find of the Day," and thought it was good advice. Find something new, unique, or memorable about every day.
7. I am very dependent upon a good internet connection.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
There's No Place Like Home
"There's no place like home," so the line from the Wizard of Oz goes as Dorothy is reunited with her family after her adventure.
I, like Dorothy feel much the same--even though I traveled with some of my family--it still feels good to return home with hundreds of photos and many memories of the past 8 days. It was a long vacation--but it still passed too quickly as all vacations seem to do.
It would be grand if I could stay on vacation and not return--but then I would miss the small whines that Makayla makes as she sits next to me in the morning reminding me that the last corner of the toast is hers. And then too, I would miss pool opening Saturday--which, coincidently is Saturday! And I would miss so many other things in my life that are as I have made them o allowed them to be.
The great thing about getting away is returning to rediscover how much I missed the routine and seemingly mundane things in my life. Ii is a rediscover because I seem to appreciate being home more after each trip I make--even to places so close to my vision of paradise.
It will take me the rest of the week to catch up.
But the time away was worth it. And so was all of the planning that made the trip a huge success--thank you to Nicole and Chris, you pulled it off!
OK--shake off the cob webs and get back to work!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I, like Dorothy feel much the same--even though I traveled with some of my family--it still feels good to return home with hundreds of photos and many memories of the past 8 days. It was a long vacation--but it still passed too quickly as all vacations seem to do.
It would be grand if I could stay on vacation and not return--but then I would miss the small whines that Makayla makes as she sits next to me in the morning reminding me that the last corner of the toast is hers. And then too, I would miss pool opening Saturday--which, coincidently is Saturday! And I would miss so many other things in my life that are as I have made them o allowed them to be.
The great thing about getting away is returning to rediscover how much I missed the routine and seemingly mundane things in my life. Ii is a rediscover because I seem to appreciate being home more after each trip I make--even to places so close to my vision of paradise.
It will take me the rest of the week to catch up.
But the time away was worth it. And so was all of the planning that made the trip a huge success--thank you to Nicole and Chris, you pulled it off!
OK--shake off the cob webs and get back to work!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Down Day, the End is Near - Day 7
Day 7 was a day to relax by the pool and enjoy the warmth of the sun of Florida. It was made all the better by reading the reports of cod and snow in the north.
I may have gotten a sunburn. Yay! I know that is almost heresy, but I did sit in the sun for a couple of hours.
I sat by the hot tub and enjoyed the bright blue sky and the sun bathing the pool area with its warmth.
It was awesome for the next to last day of a long trip.
Dinner at the Grand Floridian was awesome--what a resort. I want to stay there next time.
During our time in the evening, I had the chance to watch the Disney Train depart a station.It was interesting to watch the steam engine prepare to depart. And nostalgic.
We closed out the day at the Magic Kingdom. The sky was clear blue and the setting sun made the castle seem as magical as some think it is.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I may have gotten a sunburn. Yay! I know that is almost heresy, but I did sit in the sun for a couple of hours.
I sat by the hot tub and enjoyed the bright blue sky and the sun bathing the pool area with its warmth.
It was awesome for the next to last day of a long trip.
Dinner at the Grand Floridian was awesome--what a resort. I want to stay there next time.
During our time in the evening, I had the chance to watch the Disney Train depart a station.It was interesting to watch the steam engine prepare to depart. And nostalgic.
We closed out the day at the Magic Kingdom. The sky was clear blue and the setting sun made the castle seem as magical as some think it is.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, April 23, 2012
Monday Musings - April 23, 2012
Disney/Universal Studios thoughts this week
1. Bring your own wine. Disney's selections are mediocre at best.
2. Talk to the attendants--they usually have a pretty funny and somewhat sarcastic sense of humor.
3. Can you imagine having to deal with tourists like yourself every day?
4. Find fun in the long lines.
5. Is there really any reason to run from one attraction to the next? I thought this was supposed to be a vacation.
6. Pray for rain. Then everything slows down.
7. Plan time to sleep in (past 7 AM).
8. Funniest thing I heard: The attendant had just completed her spiel about how rare it was for something to happen, we should feel very lucky. I said something like--until the next group arrives. She laughed and said "Every three minutes all day and who has to listen to it over and over again? I do!"
9. If the internet is free (which it is) then the connection is going to be a problem.
10. If you have to run, you probably won't make it anyway.
11. Sometimes the funniest things, weren't meant that way.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
1. Bring your own wine. Disney's selections are mediocre at best.
2. Talk to the attendants--they usually have a pretty funny and somewhat sarcastic sense of humor.
3. Can you imagine having to deal with tourists like yourself every day?
4. Find fun in the long lines.
5. Is there really any reason to run from one attraction to the next? I thought this was supposed to be a vacation.
6. Pray for rain. Then everything slows down.
7. Plan time to sleep in (past 7 AM).
8. Funniest thing I heard: The attendant had just completed her spiel about how rare it was for something to happen, we should feel very lucky. I said something like--until the next group arrives. She laughed and said "Every three minutes all day and who has to listen to it over and over again? I do!"
9. If the internet is free (which it is) then the connection is going to be a problem.
10. If you have to run, you probably won't make it anyway.
11. Sometimes the funniest things, weren't meant that way.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Observations of Tomorrowland - Day 5
Our return to the Magic Kingdom was mostly devoted to exploring and becoming reacquainted with Tomorrowland.
Tomorrowland remains a 1970's vision of life in the future. It has become tarnished and is in need of a total make over. The marquee ride remains Space Mountain--which while nostalgic, is a far cry from the spectacular roller coasters deployed in the 40 years since it first hit the rails.
I first visited Tomorrowland during 1973, two years after the park opened, and it was a magical place expanding the mind and thoughts of the future. Now, it is dated and old. Gone is Alien Encounter replaced by Stitch's Great Escape--no difference just a different character.
I note, as we walked around the larger Magic Kingdom, that Fantasyland is under going a major reconstruction. I only hope that Tomorrowland is next.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tomorrowland remains a 1970's vision of life in the future. It has become tarnished and is in need of a total make over. The marquee ride remains Space Mountain--which while nostalgic, is a far cry from the spectacular roller coasters deployed in the 40 years since it first hit the rails.
I first visited Tomorrowland during 1973, two years after the park opened, and it was a magical place expanding the mind and thoughts of the future. Now, it is dated and old. Gone is Alien Encounter replaced by Stitch's Great Escape--no difference just a different character.
I note, as we walked around the larger Magic Kingdom, that Fantasyland is under going a major reconstruction. I only hope that Tomorrowland is next.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, April 21, 2012
The Noise on the Bus
It took an eternity to get from our resort to the place we had reserved for dinner. One leg, on a Disney bus, was done amid the most noise of screaming children and adults talking I've the screams that I have ever experienced in my life. It was awful. And the the arrival announcement came on and added to the din. I have been near jet engines which were quieter. It is better now though. We are waiting for dinner and enjoying some evening libations. It could be worse, it could be better but it isn't.
Star Wars meets Phineas and Ferb - Day 4
What a crazy day. Hot sunny skies punctuated by thunderstorms while working across the entertainment spectrum from cartoons to
wookies.
One of the highlights of the day was meeting Darth Vader along with two Storm Troopers. That happened because of the thunderstorms. The best fun of the day was at Toy Story Arcade.
Hollywood Studios has really improved since my last visit. The Tower of Terror, which I did twice, is really pretty lame. The Rock 'n Rollercoaster is exciting and fun, but too short.
I have to confess, this park is not a visually stimulating as Universal Studios, but it is fun nonetheless. Where else can I stand in the middle of one street and take a picture of San Francisco AND turn 90 degrees and take a shot of NYC?
The restaurant we ate lunch in was probably the best of the trip--it was Italian fare.
Note to all who like wine--I mean decent wine. There isn't any in Disney. Ugh!
The wine is mediocre at best and the selection is very pedestrian. They need to stop buying in bulk and begin to specialize in better wines.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
wookies.
One of the highlights of the day was meeting Darth Vader along with two Storm Troopers. That happened because of the thunderstorms. The best fun of the day was at Toy Story Arcade.
Hollywood Studios has really improved since my last visit. The Tower of Terror, which I did twice, is really pretty lame. The Rock 'n Rollercoaster is exciting and fun, but too short.
I have to confess, this park is not a visually stimulating as Universal Studios, but it is fun nonetheless. Where else can I stand in the middle of one street and take a picture of San Francisco AND turn 90 degrees and take a shot of NYC?
The restaurant we ate lunch in was probably the best of the trip--it was Italian fare.
Note to all who like wine--I mean decent wine. There isn't any in Disney. Ugh!
The wine is mediocre at best and the selection is very pedestrian. They need to stop buying in bulk and begin to specialize in better wines.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Friday, April 20, 2012
Universal Studios Islands of Adventure - Day 3
Universal Studios Islands of Adventure was the day 3 destination. Can you imagine the crush of people who want to visit Hogwarts and the Harry Potter section of the park? Why?
Because it is worth it.
And I am not a huge Harry Potter fan, but this section of the park makes the books come to life in a believable way. The place is magical as are the other sections of the park which include Jurassic Park, Super Hero's Island, Dr. Seuss, and Sunday Comics Land.
This day was devoted to adventure and riding rides. Chris and I rode one roller coaster four times during the first hour while watching Jax during the period when the rest of the party was off doing the marquee ride in the Harry Potter section.
We also had a great meeting with Captain America! Who was very engaging. I personally think he was happy to meet some boys who at least spoke English. There were a lot of languages being spoken at the park--not English.
I did get to experience three different wide where the signs said something like: "You may get wet." I can assure you, the signs understated the probability. Indeed, the ride designers apparently took the opportunity to ensure that those who dared to pass the signs got soaked. I also got to experience a "people dryer." And it felt good on a cool day.
It was a busy day. A fun day. A wet day, A day devoted to fancy and imagination.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Because it is worth it.
And I am not a huge Harry Potter fan, but this section of the park makes the books come to life in a believable way. The place is magical as are the other sections of the park which include Jurassic Park, Super Hero's Island, Dr. Seuss, and Sunday Comics Land.
This day was devoted to adventure and riding rides. Chris and I rode one roller coaster four times during the first hour while watching Jax during the period when the rest of the party was off doing the marquee ride in the Harry Potter section.
We also had a great meeting with Captain America! Who was very engaging. I personally think he was happy to meet some boys who at least spoke English. There were a lot of languages being spoken at the park--not English.
I did get to experience three different wide where the signs said something like: "You may get wet." I can assure you, the signs understated the probability. Indeed, the ride designers apparently took the opportunity to ensure that those who dared to pass the signs got soaked. I also got to experience a "people dryer." And it felt good on a cool day.
It was a busy day. A fun day. A wet day, A day devoted to fancy and imagination.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Wire to Wire in the Magic Kingdom - Day 2
From the Character Breakfast at 7 AM in the Contemporary Hotel, to the welcome performance in front of the train station entrance to Main Street USA, to the 10 PM fireworks to close out the day, in the words of someone: "we did it all," well mostly.
The boys were fried by the end of it all even though we did return to the resort for a middle of the day respite (read nap). But we also experienced a very active pool area as well.
My take on the day--the Disney magic is beginning to fray around the edges. We had trouble with out lunch reservations and then our dinner reservations and saw behind the Disney magic a bit to the side where people are over worked and not really happy to help. We also decided that the busses do not run frequently enough from our resort, although we did get out of the park at the end of the day in fairly efficient fashion.
That written, the Fast Pass system works well. Having a plan for the day works great too. Nicole's plan to start the day saw us on five attractions within two hours. Fabulous. Well, almost, running at full tilt at 9 AM to get on an attraction is a bit excessive--but it worked.
The boys were great--mostly. But of course the heat and constant activity took its toll.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
The boys were fried by the end of it all even though we did return to the resort for a middle of the day respite (read nap). But we also experienced a very active pool area as well.
My take on the day--the Disney magic is beginning to fray around the edges. We had trouble with out lunch reservations and then our dinner reservations and saw behind the Disney magic a bit to the side where people are over worked and not really happy to help. We also decided that the busses do not run frequently enough from our resort, although we did get out of the park at the end of the day in fairly efficient fashion.
That written, the Fast Pass system works well. Having a plan for the day works great too. Nicole's plan to start the day saw us on five attractions within two hours. Fabulous. Well, almost, running at full tilt at 9 AM to get on an attraction is a bit excessive--but it worked.
The boys were great--mostly. But of course the heat and constant activity took its toll.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Disney World Arrival and Day 1
Logistically, the day went well.
The alarm went off at 3:40 AM and we were on our way to the BWI by 4:40AM after having said good-bye to Makayla and the cats.
It has been a long time since I have been in an airport before 5AM. It is very quiet. Add to that, there were only about 30 people on our flight to Orlando--and the whole process of getting from home to Disney went incredibly smoothly.
We had some issues checking in and getting the right rooms--but after most of the day this too was corrected.
The day was an Epcot day--and we were in the park just before 11AM.
The best, by far, ride in Epcot is Soarin'. We did a fast pass for this first thing and we able to snag tickets for 4:45 PM. This ride continues to be a first rate experience and one that the kids enjoy too.
We ate at the Coral Reef Restaurant--and it was our big meal of the day. The experience was truly worthwhile, eating in essentially a huge aquarium.
We also did the usual Epcot stuff and had a great time and a long day. I was able to enjoy the international area around the lake.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
The alarm went off at 3:40 AM and we were on our way to the BWI by 4:40AM after having said good-bye to Makayla and the cats.
It has been a long time since I have been in an airport before 5AM. It is very quiet. Add to that, there were only about 30 people on our flight to Orlando--and the whole process of getting from home to Disney went incredibly smoothly.
We had some issues checking in and getting the right rooms--but after most of the day this too was corrected.
The day was an Epcot day--and we were in the park just before 11AM.
The best, by far, ride in Epcot is Soarin'. We did a fast pass for this first thing and we able to snag tickets for 4:45 PM. This ride continues to be a first rate experience and one that the kids enjoy too.
We ate at the Coral Reef Restaurant--and it was our big meal of the day. The experience was truly worthwhile, eating in essentially a huge aquarium.
We also did the usual Epcot stuff and had a great time and a long day. I was able to enjoy the international area around the lake.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Disney begins
At the airport on the way to Orlando and a week of fun with Mickey!
Vacations are supposed to be relaxing, right?
Yeah.
Epcot today to get started. Soaring is on the agenda.
But first to survive BWI and get to the land that the mouse built.
Our party of 7 will never be the same.
Five adults and two children but all young at heart.
- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, April 16, 2012
Monday Musings - April 16, 2012
1. Tax Day is upon us! Today is Tax Day for the State of Maryland; tomorrow is Tax Day for the Federal Government. If you have not filed your taxes yet, you are probably going to be late.
2. Last evening, after a day of over 80 degree temperatures, I saw the first fireflies of the year. I was truly astonished as I do not recall ever seeing them so early. I was so amazed that I made sure to get independent verification from Chris that there were in fact fireflies in the trees.
3. I made an interesting observation in the major league baseball standings yesterday morning: both the Nationals and the Orioles were in sole possession of first place in their respective divisions. I do not believe that has ever happened before. Of course the Orioles lost yesterday and now share the division lead--but it was interesting for one day at least.
4. I am still in shock about how quickly machinery can reduce a small forest into a 10 acre patch of bare land.
5. With Ethan's birthday behind us, the family birthday season has ended. We begin celebrating family birthdays in September and conclude in April. In between, there are 11 birthdays--more if extended family is counted. I guess it gives us something to do while the pool is closed.
6. And in the pool department--I ordered the chemicals for the coming year. I always feel like a mad scientist or something after I order the pool supplies.
7. Yesterday, George Washington was selected as Britain's greatest enemy, or most formidable foe since the 17th Century. The article makes an interesting read--but essentially, Washington is the greatest enemy commander to face the British Empire! One of the rules of the competition was that the commander had to lead troops in actual combat--hence, political leaders (like Hitler) were excluded.
8. I am about to head off to the land of Mickey Mouse! The good news is that it is in Florida. The bad news is that it is no where near the beach.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
2. Last evening, after a day of over 80 degree temperatures, I saw the first fireflies of the year. I was truly astonished as I do not recall ever seeing them so early. I was so amazed that I made sure to get independent verification from Chris that there were in fact fireflies in the trees.
3. I made an interesting observation in the major league baseball standings yesterday morning: both the Nationals and the Orioles were in sole possession of first place in their respective divisions. I do not believe that has ever happened before. Of course the Orioles lost yesterday and now share the division lead--but it was interesting for one day at least.
4. I am still in shock about how quickly machinery can reduce a small forest into a 10 acre patch of bare land.
5. With Ethan's birthday behind us, the family birthday season has ended. We begin celebrating family birthdays in September and conclude in April. In between, there are 11 birthdays--more if extended family is counted. I guess it gives us something to do while the pool is closed.
6. And in the pool department--I ordered the chemicals for the coming year. I always feel like a mad scientist or something after I order the pool supplies.
7. Yesterday, George Washington was selected as Britain's greatest enemy, or most formidable foe since the 17th Century. The article makes an interesting read--but essentially, Washington is the greatest enemy commander to face the British Empire! One of the rules of the competition was that the commander had to lead troops in actual combat--hence, political leaders (like Hitler) were excluded.
8. I am about to head off to the land of Mickey Mouse! The good news is that it is in Florida. The bad news is that it is no where near the beach.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Cat Clipping Day's
By 8:30 AM, the semiannual clipping of Louis had been completed yesterday. Louis is a 14 pound rag-doll cat with very long fur which matts pretty badly, especially during the summer. In an effort to keep him more comfortable we have him clipped.
This is the after picture and he is sporting what is called the "lion cut." I know it seems pretty radical, but I believe he really appreciates the short cut. There is a bit of self preservation involved as well--the hair ball count goes down dramatically after he gets trimmed. Every cat owner knows that there is nothing worse than getting up in the morning and stepping into a cold and slimy fur ball with their bare foot.
The process to trim Louis is not without some danger though. He does not tolerate it too well and must be drugged. Even so, it is two person process and I caught a claw helping the groomer shave the cat.
Apparently, Riordin was unhappy that he did not get invited out for the trip. He checked out the carrier after we returned home. Little did he know where that carrier had taken his best friend.
Louis recovered nicely from the drugs--they barely affected him anyway--just taking the edge off a bit, and the day went on.
Another checklist completed on the highway to summertime!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
This is the after picture and he is sporting what is called the "lion cut." I know it seems pretty radical, but I believe he really appreciates the short cut. There is a bit of self preservation involved as well--the hair ball count goes down dramatically after he gets trimmed. Every cat owner knows that there is nothing worse than getting up in the morning and stepping into a cold and slimy fur ball with their bare foot.
The process to trim Louis is not without some danger though. He does not tolerate it too well and must be drugged. Even so, it is two person process and I caught a claw helping the groomer shave the cat.
Apparently, Riordin was unhappy that he did not get invited out for the trip. He checked out the carrier after we returned home. Little did he know where that carrier had taken his best friend.
Louis recovered nicely from the drugs--they barely affected him anyway--just taking the edge off a bit, and the day went on.
Another checklist completed on the highway to summertime!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, April 14, 2012
A Day in Elementary School
I spent a day as a volunteer Dad at Ethan's school on Friday. I was part of a program they call Watch D.O.G.S.. Who knew that I was a hero of the hallways.
I learned a lot about education in America today as I saw first hand the over crowded and dirty classrooms that are part to public education. That learning can occur is really a testament to the dedicated teachers who struggle in these less than ideal conditions.
I noticed a few things during the day that show how much life has changed since I was in elementary school not just a few decades ago.
Lunch boxes have really changed. I remember metal lunch boxes in the shape of school busses or with the some Disney characters on them. The boxes are now canvass and probably work a lot better. They are adorned with current heroes and movies. The most popular among the boys is Clone Wars--I saw five boys sitting together all with Clone Wars lunch boxes.
The noise is deafening. Everywhere it seems the noise is at levels equal to that of jet engines.
Security is serious. One of my jobs was to ensure every door in the school was locked. I was amazed how many outside doors there are in a school. And I found an insecure door which I immediately secured.
I found the pace of the day slow--and that is not bad. I was able to stroll outside in the sun for a couple of hours during the beautiful day--something that I never would have been able to do at my regular job. So yeah, I enjoyed it.
As a trained Watch D.O.G.S., I expect to volunteer again. It was nice to get to know the administration and the teachers at the school.
It was a great day.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I learned a lot about education in America today as I saw first hand the over crowded and dirty classrooms that are part to public education. That learning can occur is really a testament to the dedicated teachers who struggle in these less than ideal conditions.
I noticed a few things during the day that show how much life has changed since I was in elementary school not just a few decades ago.
Lunch boxes have really changed. I remember metal lunch boxes in the shape of school busses or with the some Disney characters on them. The boxes are now canvass and probably work a lot better. They are adorned with current heroes and movies. The most popular among the boys is Clone Wars--I saw five boys sitting together all with Clone Wars lunch boxes.
The noise is deafening. Everywhere it seems the noise is at levels equal to that of jet engines.
Security is serious. One of my jobs was to ensure every door in the school was locked. I was amazed how many outside doors there are in a school. And I found an insecure door which I immediately secured.
I found the pace of the day slow--and that is not bad. I was able to stroll outside in the sun for a couple of hours during the beautiful day--something that I never would have been able to do at my regular job. So yeah, I enjoyed it.
As a trained Watch D.O.G.S., I expect to volunteer again. It was nice to get to know the administration and the teachers at the school.
It was a great day.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Friday, April 13, 2012
Off on the Zoo Path
Although I did not get to go to the zoo last week, Chris did, twice, and took some great images of the animals who live at the Baltimore Zoo.
The zoo is really very nice, but a bit off the beaten path.
The animals were very active; providing the opportunity for some great shots.
I was reminded of an old Paul Simon song about the New York Zoo from her stories about the activity of the animals and spectators.
She was most proud of her images of the bats taken from within the darkness of the bat room.
I can see why--close up and personal with the bats.
OK--maybe that part is kinda creepy.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
The zoo is really very nice, but a bit off the beaten path.
The animals were very active; providing the opportunity for some great shots.
I was reminded of an old Paul Simon song about the New York Zoo from her stories about the activity of the animals and spectators.
She was most proud of her images of the bats taken from within the darkness of the bat room.
I can see why--close up and personal with the bats.
OK--maybe that part is kinda creepy.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Thursday, April 12, 2012
The Forest is Lost
The forest that I wrote about a couple of weeks ago in the article Forest's Final Spring has ceased to exist.
A broken 10 acre plot of ground, devoid of life and trees, now sits where the thriving woodland community formerly stood.
It is sad and permanent. I have watched the trees be removed during the past two weeks as the plot was cleared. The heavy equipment was ruthless--no living thing remained standing. It was like a scene from Fern Gully or Avatar.
What is even sadder was the realization that in a month or so, the new empty space will seem normal to me. I won't remember the trees and the life which abounded there in advance of the construction project now underway.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
A broken 10 acre plot of ground, devoid of life and trees, now sits where the thriving woodland community formerly stood.
It is sad and permanent. I have watched the trees be removed during the past two weeks as the plot was cleared. The heavy equipment was ruthless--no living thing remained standing. It was like a scene from Fern Gully or Avatar.
What is even sadder was the realization that in a month or so, the new empty space will seem normal to me. I won't remember the trees and the life which abounded there in advance of the construction project now underway.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Too Cold in the Stands
I went to see the Orioles play last evening. I was hoping to see them win again.
I learned that watching a summertime sport as temperatures approach the mid-40's is not a lot of fun. Frankly, I was freezing and wishing with every pitch for summertime and 80 degrees.
I thought I had dressed for the game--two shirts and a coat. But it was so cold, I didn't even want to finish my beer--because it was making me colder with every sip.
The only thing keeping me there was that the Orioles were winning.
When the lead evaporated during the sixth inning and the game was dragging, I began to think about turning the heater on in my truck and warming up.
So I left--purely for self-preservation.
On the drive home, I finally warmed up. I bet it was over 90 degrees in my truck when I pulled into the driveway of my home.
If I had known it was going to be a winter game,I would have dressed even warmer. As it was the Orioles lost in 12 innings. So I probably made a mature decision.
At least I got warm again.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I learned that watching a summertime sport as temperatures approach the mid-40's is not a lot of fun. Frankly, I was freezing and wishing with every pitch for summertime and 80 degrees.
I thought I had dressed for the game--two shirts and a coat. But it was so cold, I didn't even want to finish my beer--because it was making me colder with every sip.
The only thing keeping me there was that the Orioles were winning.
When the lead evaporated during the sixth inning and the game was dragging, I began to think about turning the heater on in my truck and warming up.
So I left--purely for self-preservation.
On the drive home, I finally warmed up. I bet it was over 90 degrees in my truck when I pulled into the driveway of my home.
If I had known it was going to be a winter game,I would have dressed even warmer. As it was the Orioles lost in 12 innings. So I probably made a mature decision.
At least I got warm again.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Empty Gas Tank
I hopped into my truck yesterday morning, after the weekend, ready to drive off for a 5:30 AM racquetball match and start the week with some activity. I was shocked when I looked at the fuel indicator and it read: "E." "E" as we all know does not stand for "enough!"
Empty, I didn't recall leaving the truck with no gas the last time I drove it. And I was running late as I had spent an extra minute or so with Makayla. Unfortunately, the gas station is out of the way when I am running behind.
Thankfully, I have other vehicles to choose from, so I moved all of my stuff--no small task when considering my overstuffed racquetball bag to one of my other waiting steads.
There was no way I could risk heading out as I had three stops to make and tight timelines to keep. As I drove out of the drive, I realized it would be 14 hours until I returned. Ad no time for a trip to the gas station to get gored by the unreasonably high prices there.
Why, I pondered was the truck empty? I did not see or smell a leak. I don't leave my vehicles on empty because I hate getting gas on my way to anywhere. I much prefer filling up at the end of trips.
And then I remembered.
I had loaned my truck out. And my generosity was rewarded with an empty gas tank and inconvenience. I admit, there was probably only a quarter of a tank in the truck anyway--and it wasn't that the gas wasn't replaced that really bothered me--it was that it was returned empty and no one told me.
Empty is really a slap.
Yesterday was busy enough that the truck is still empty, so I have to leave earlier today to refill the tank and get over it.
But it still bugs me--just a bit.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Empty, I didn't recall leaving the truck with no gas the last time I drove it. And I was running late as I had spent an extra minute or so with Makayla. Unfortunately, the gas station is out of the way when I am running behind.
Thankfully, I have other vehicles to choose from, so I moved all of my stuff--no small task when considering my overstuffed racquetball bag to one of my other waiting steads.
There was no way I could risk heading out as I had three stops to make and tight timelines to keep. As I drove out of the drive, I realized it would be 14 hours until I returned. Ad no time for a trip to the gas station to get gored by the unreasonably high prices there.
Why, I pondered was the truck empty? I did not see or smell a leak. I don't leave my vehicles on empty because I hate getting gas on my way to anywhere. I much prefer filling up at the end of trips.
And then I remembered.
I had loaned my truck out. And my generosity was rewarded with an empty gas tank and inconvenience. I admit, there was probably only a quarter of a tank in the truck anyway--and it wasn't that the gas wasn't replaced that really bothered me--it was that it was returned empty and no one told me.
Empty is really a slap.
Yesterday was busy enough that the truck is still empty, so I have to leave earlier today to refill the tank and get over it.
But it still bugs me--just a bit.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, April 9, 2012
Monday Musings - April 9, 2012
1. Have you filed your taxes yet? I prepared them but haven't sent them yet. Oops! No refund for me!
2. Easter allows us to live like, "Don't worry, be Happy!"
3. I just recently realized that autumn is springtime in reverse. In the spring the trees start with bare branches, then don many colors and finally turn green. During the autumn, they start out green and wind up robed in many colors before returning to bare branches until springtime comes round again.
4. Blue skies, sunny days, singing birds, and budding flowers--nice!
5. In the deepest darkest depths of despair, hope lives.
6. The hardest thing that I do is to ask for help. I seem to need more help now than ever before. And the funny thing is, people don't mind helping, they just need to be invited.
7. Five bottles of wine--equals Easter dinner for the family.
8. Nerf wars in the house and yard are great for burning off the excess energy associated with holiday activities.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
2. Easter allows us to live like, "Don't worry, be Happy!"
3. I just recently realized that autumn is springtime in reverse. In the spring the trees start with bare branches, then don many colors and finally turn green. During the autumn, they start out green and wind up robed in many colors before returning to bare branches until springtime comes round again.
4. Blue skies, sunny days, singing birds, and budding flowers--nice!
5. In the deepest darkest depths of despair, hope lives.
6. The hardest thing that I do is to ask for help. I seem to need more help now than ever before. And the funny thing is, people don't mind helping, they just need to be invited.
7. Five bottles of wine--equals Easter dinner for the family.
8. Nerf wars in the house and yard are great for burning off the excess energy associated with holiday activities.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Happy Easter 2012
I woke up before dawn, or more precisely as dawn was just beginning to break on this Easter morning.
I read an article yesterday about how the young people in America are becoming disenfranchised with Christianity.
Andrew Sullivan made the following observation: "Appearing on "CBS This Morning: Saturday," Sullivan said the crisis facing Christianity was especially bad today for one reason: "When I go and see young people, their image of Christianity these days is one of judgment, intolerance and to some extent bigotry and politics," Sullivan said. "They associate it with one political party in this country, because of the fusion of evangelical and ultra-orthodox Catholics with the Republican Party. They don't see it as the message of Jesus, they don't see it any more as a message of love and forgiveness. They see it as a bunch of people trying to control their lives through political mechanisms."
I see this. I had a conversation with a younger adult the other day that was precisely about this.
The message if Easter has become lost and strangled in political strife and religious wars across the globe.
The whole idea of Christians greeting each other in love and with the excited statement of so long ago: Christ is risen, He is risen indeed, has become muted and lost as Christ followers try to remake the world.
Maybe we have lost our vision. We almost certainly have lost sight of His vision.
Has Christ's message become confused with our own desires? As we are trying to reshape the world have we substituted our vision for that of Jesus'?
Jesus loved sinners and gave them hope. We should know--we are sinners too. We need to love sinners, too.
I am reminded, on this dawning Easter morning as I replay the events of the first Easter in my head, of the empty tomb, the confusion, the despair, the fear that those who were gathered felt as the miracle began to become clearer to them.
And I am reminded of the words of Titus 3:5: he saved us not by works of righteousness that we have done but on the basis of his mercy, through the washing of the new birth and the renewing of the Holy Spirit,
As your Easter dawns today amid the celebration of family and friends or whatever form your remembrance of this greatest day in the history of God's relationship with man takes, pause to think about how we are being perceived by those we are most desperately trying to reach. Are we inviting and forgiving, or are we hard and judging by trying to push a political agenda onto people who don't understand it?
Happy Easter.
Christ has risen.
He has risen, indeed!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I read an article yesterday about how the young people in America are becoming disenfranchised with Christianity.
Andrew Sullivan made the following observation: "Appearing on "CBS This Morning: Saturday," Sullivan said the crisis facing Christianity was especially bad today for one reason: "When I go and see young people, their image of Christianity these days is one of judgment, intolerance and to some extent bigotry and politics," Sullivan said. "They associate it with one political party in this country, because of the fusion of evangelical and ultra-orthodox Catholics with the Republican Party. They don't see it as the message of Jesus, they don't see it any more as a message of love and forgiveness. They see it as a bunch of people trying to control their lives through political mechanisms."
I see this. I had a conversation with a younger adult the other day that was precisely about this.
The message if Easter has become lost and strangled in political strife and religious wars across the globe.
The whole idea of Christians greeting each other in love and with the excited statement of so long ago: Christ is risen, He is risen indeed, has become muted and lost as Christ followers try to remake the world.
Maybe we have lost our vision. We almost certainly have lost sight of His vision.
Has Christ's message become confused with our own desires? As we are trying to reshape the world have we substituted our vision for that of Jesus'?
Jesus loved sinners and gave them hope. We should know--we are sinners too. We need to love sinners, too.
I am reminded, on this dawning Easter morning as I replay the events of the first Easter in my head, of the empty tomb, the confusion, the despair, the fear that those who were gathered felt as the miracle began to become clearer to them.
And I am reminded of the words of Titus 3:5: he saved us not by works of righteousness that we have done but on the basis of his mercy, through the washing of the new birth and the renewing of the Holy Spirit,
As your Easter dawns today amid the celebration of family and friends or whatever form your remembrance of this greatest day in the history of God's relationship with man takes, pause to think about how we are being perceived by those we are most desperately trying to reach. Are we inviting and forgiving, or are we hard and judging by trying to push a political agenda onto people who don't understand it?
Happy Easter.
Christ has risen.
He has risen, indeed!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Reflections of Orioles Opening Day 2012
It was truly a holiday--and the crowds were crushing. I haven't see so many people at Camden Yards in a long time. It was impossible to move at the pre-game party across the street from the stadium. And as it was, that party continued throughout the entire game.
I had been in that crowd only minutes before but decided it wasn't a lot of fun and headed off to the stadium to find my seat for the game.
The day was cool--especially in the shade. The sky was clear. It was Opening Day for the Orioles and expectations for the 2012 campaign were high.
The stadium was ready to begin the 20th Anniversary celebration. And it did not disappoint.
Neither did the Orioles. The game was a gem, with the starting pitcher, Jake Arrieta, going seven innings and giving up two hits and no runs. The relief corps didn't do so well, but the O's still chalked up a win on opening day. With one game down and 161 to go, they are tied for first in the American League East.
As Patrick and I were chatting in our seats, we were trying to determine how many Opening Days I have attended--and I believe it is 10. I had thought they were 10 straight, but I did miss one year when we went to Napa for Spring Break. I guess that was a good trade.
Baseball is back! Next up, the pool!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I had been in that crowd only minutes before but decided it wasn't a lot of fun and headed off to the stadium to find my seat for the game.
The day was cool--especially in the shade. The sky was clear. It was Opening Day for the Orioles and expectations for the 2012 campaign were high.
The stadium was ready to begin the 20th Anniversary celebration. And it did not disappoint.
Neither did the Orioles. The game was a gem, with the starting pitcher, Jake Arrieta, going seven innings and giving up two hits and no runs. The relief corps didn't do so well, but the O's still chalked up a win on opening day. With one game down and 161 to go, they are tied for first in the American League East.
As Patrick and I were chatting in our seats, we were trying to determine how many Opening Days I have attended--and I believe it is 10. I had thought they were 10 straight, but I did miss one year when we went to Napa for Spring Break. I guess that was a good trade.
Baseball is back! Next up, the pool!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Friday, April 6, 2012
Opening Day
Today, summer begins, not officially but in spirit. It is opening day for the Orioles. Arguably, ok probably not, the 30th best team in baseball.
But they are my home team.
And they play the Yankees, a lot.
And the Red Sox, a lot
And the Tampa Bay Rays, a lot
And the Blue Jays, too much!
The Orioles are my home team and I will continue to root for them as I remember the glory days of the 60's, the 70's and the 80's when they were the best team in all of baseball.
I expect to be at the game later today--which coincidently is Good Friday. The game is a sell out--I haven't been to one of those since last year's opening day.
At least there is no way that I could ever be considered a fair weather fan. I have supported this team through 14 losing seasons--always looking for the silver lining in the dark storm cloud of reality.
I have not found it yet, except for the realization that there is always tomorrow and that baseball is a sport--a game, and not a life or death proposition. I can enjoy a game even when we are losing because it is baseball.
I love baseball. The park, the fans, the game, the snacks, the beer.
Summer has arrived.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
But they are my home team.
And they play the Yankees, a lot.
And the Red Sox, a lot
And the Tampa Bay Rays, a lot
And the Blue Jays, too much!
The Orioles are my home team and I will continue to root for them as I remember the glory days of the 60's, the 70's and the 80's when they were the best team in all of baseball.
I expect to be at the game later today--which coincidently is Good Friday. The game is a sell out--I haven't been to one of those since last year's opening day.
At least there is no way that I could ever be considered a fair weather fan. I have supported this team through 14 losing seasons--always looking for the silver lining in the dark storm cloud of reality.
I have not found it yet, except for the realization that there is always tomorrow and that baseball is a sport--a game, and not a life or death proposition. I can enjoy a game even when we are losing because it is baseball.
I love baseball. The park, the fans, the game, the snacks, the beer.
Summer has arrived.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Evening on the Deck
I love the evenings of the springtime.
Sitting outside, enjoying the beauty of the end of the day with a glass of wine and some dinner. I also enjoy looking at the the leaves as they begin to fill the trees.
The bats gracing the evening air and the sight of the nearly full moon make the setting perfect.
The only thing better would have been to be on a floatie in the pool--but that will not happen for almost a month.
I just sat there for a bit and enjoyed the ending of the day and the gathering darkness--even as the air began to get cool and the clock approached 8pm and there was still light in the sky.
It is time to get out of the house and begin to live.
I even took the top down on Cat this afternoon and enjoyed the relatively warm breeze in my hair as I was racing between doctors appointments. The sun and the sky were something to see and remember.
Friday is Orioles Opening Day and it can only get better from here!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sitting outside, enjoying the beauty of the end of the day with a glass of wine and some dinner. I also enjoy looking at the the leaves as they begin to fill the trees.
The bats gracing the evening air and the sight of the nearly full moon make the setting perfect.
The only thing better would have been to be on a floatie in the pool--but that will not happen for almost a month.
I just sat there for a bit and enjoyed the ending of the day and the gathering darkness--even as the air began to get cool and the clock approached 8pm and there was still light in the sky.
It is time to get out of the house and begin to live.
I even took the top down on Cat this afternoon and enjoyed the relatively warm breeze in my hair as I was racing between doctors appointments. The sun and the sky were something to see and remember.
Friday is Orioles Opening Day and it can only get better from here!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Springtime Blooms
The annual event in our yard is underway. The weeping cherry is in full bloom gracing our lawn with blooms like waterfalls.
It is sad how quickly the blooms pass and the tree becomes green, but for a about two short weeks it is absolutely beautiful.
It is a sight to behold and to ponder the beauty of the springtime.
The tree provides beauty as it transitions from the dormant branches of winter into the green leaves of summer.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
It is sad how quickly the blooms pass and the tree becomes green, but for a about two short weeks it is absolutely beautiful.
It is a sight to behold and to ponder the beauty of the springtime.
The tree provides beauty as it transitions from the dormant branches of winter into the green leaves of summer.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Primary Election Day for Maryland - 2012
It is an election day. I enjoy exercising my right--my responsibility as a citizen of this great Republic, to vote.
I believe too many of us have adopted the--"it doesn't matter anyway" approach to voting and ignore the opportunity to cast their vote and make their voice heard. And the voice is heard--even in the dissent or the concurrence.
Even though I am limited in my ability to publically demonstrate support for a particular political candiate by the limits of the archaic Hatch Act, I still retain my right and obligation to vote.
And so I will.
I am following a critical (non-partisian) Howard County School Board race this year in which a member of the board--who sadly is a retired Air Force officer, is seeking reelection but has become such an impediment and distraction to the board that he does not deserve reelection because the only constituents he is representing is himself. I am actually excited to support a 17-year old high school student, who will be 18 before he is seated and therefore is eligible to run. Maybe I see something in him that reminds me of the passion and fire I used to have.
I will be voting, today.
I urge everyone to get out and vote.
Call it an exercise of our rights--and then go do it!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I believe too many of us have adopted the--"it doesn't matter anyway" approach to voting and ignore the opportunity to cast their vote and make their voice heard. And the voice is heard--even in the dissent or the concurrence.
Even though I am limited in my ability to publically demonstrate support for a particular political candiate by the limits of the archaic Hatch Act, I still retain my right and obligation to vote.
And so I will.
I am following a critical (non-partisian) Howard County School Board race this year in which a member of the board--who sadly is a retired Air Force officer, is seeking reelection but has become such an impediment and distraction to the board that he does not deserve reelection because the only constituents he is representing is himself. I am actually excited to support a 17-year old high school student, who will be 18 before he is seated and therefore is eligible to run. Maybe I see something in him that reminds me of the passion and fire I used to have.
I will be voting, today.
I urge everyone to get out and vote.
Call it an exercise of our rights--and then go do it!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, April 2, 2012
Monday Musings - April 2, 2012
1. Happy April showers designed to bring May flowers.
2. I was definitely spoiled by the warm temperatures from a couple weeks go and my trip to Florida--bring on the heat.
3. I was home alone yesterday afternoon and I discovered what Makayla likes to do on nice quiet days. Sleep.
4. Yard work, in small doses, is therapeutic.
5. Physical therapy, hurts.
6. The O's and the Pens both managed to lose yesterday. Ugh. One is trying to end the season on a high and the other is trying to begin the season and not be the doormat of MLB.
7. There was an announcement of the TV the other day reminding gardeners that the only safe plant to begin planting are pansies. Don't waste you money, I was reminded.
8. An interesting situation occurred the other evening. Presented with two very different wines, a good one and a not so good one, I found that tasting them side-by-side made the good one seem better and the other even less appealing.
9. I have been reading Aesop's Fables, off and on, as time permits. I highly recommend getting in touch with these short proverbs about life.
10. Welcome to Holy Week. I read a book last year that provided convincing evidence and analysis that the Last Supper occurred on Wednesday, April 1, AD 33. The book is The Mysteries of the Last Supper, by Colin J. Humphreys.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
2. I was definitely spoiled by the warm temperatures from a couple weeks go and my trip to Florida--bring on the heat.
3. I was home alone yesterday afternoon and I discovered what Makayla likes to do on nice quiet days. Sleep.
4. Yard work, in small doses, is therapeutic.
5. Physical therapy, hurts.
6. The O's and the Pens both managed to lose yesterday. Ugh. One is trying to end the season on a high and the other is trying to begin the season and not be the doormat of MLB.
7. There was an announcement of the TV the other day reminding gardeners that the only safe plant to begin planting are pansies. Don't waste you money, I was reminded.
8. An interesting situation occurred the other evening. Presented with two very different wines, a good one and a not so good one, I found that tasting them side-by-side made the good one seem better and the other even less appealing.
9. I have been reading Aesop's Fables, off and on, as time permits. I highly recommend getting in touch with these short proverbs about life.
10. Welcome to Holy Week. I read a book last year that provided convincing evidence and analysis that the Last Supper occurred on Wednesday, April 1, AD 33. The book is The Mysteries of the Last Supper, by Colin J. Humphreys.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Forest's Final Spring
A small 10 acre forest near where I live is coming to life this springtime. The trees are filling out with new leaves and displaying stunning colors of reds and oranges which soon will become green, beautiful leaves. As I look into the woods, I see the dogwoods in bloom--with their flowers bringing joy to my heart while brightening up the the still coming to life forest.
Alas, though, this is the final springtime for this small wooded area. The county has decided to raze the forest and build an elementary school. The work will likely begin before the May flowers bloom.
I drive by this small wilderness, strategically placed in the middle of suburbia, every day. I never realized how much this small patch of trees and wild kept me in touch with my roots until the day I realized it would soon be gone. How sad--trees and brush teaming with wildlife soon to be replaced by brick, mortar, and mowed grass.
So I have been especially noticing the beauty of the trees this springtime as they burst forth in life, before the chain saws and heavy equipment arrive to forever change this small plot into a something tame and sterile.
I mourn the loss and I hope that I will not soon forget the vision of this small forest and the trees and life which it contained.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Alas, though, this is the final springtime for this small wooded area. The county has decided to raze the forest and build an elementary school. The work will likely begin before the May flowers bloom.
I drive by this small wilderness, strategically placed in the middle of suburbia, every day. I never realized how much this small patch of trees and wild kept me in touch with my roots until the day I realized it would soon be gone. How sad--trees and brush teaming with wildlife soon to be replaced by brick, mortar, and mowed grass.
So I have been especially noticing the beauty of the trees this springtime as they burst forth in life, before the chain saws and heavy equipment arrive to forever change this small plot into a something tame and sterile.
I mourn the loss and I hope that I will not soon forget the vision of this small forest and the trees and life which it contained.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
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