1. Two successive days of blue skies and 60 degree temperatures make spring a reality.
2. Team USA amazingly moved on in the World Baseball Classic thanks to the player of the game--Adam Jones from the Orioles.
3. Working outside around the house is therapeutic and a great way to break out of the winter doldrums.
4. Sequestration continues with no end in sight--next up, funding the government, budget, continuing resolution, or shut down?
5. Check out the comet that is now visible in the Northern Hemisphere. Just barely.
6. What can be better than sitting around a fire as evening falls, watching the stars come out, sipping wine and being with the one you love? Two nights in a row?
7. On this date in 1847, John Chapman 'Johnny Appleseed' died in Allen County, Indiana. This day became known as Johnny Appleseed Day.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, March 11, 2013
Sunday, March 10, 2013
First Flower of Spring
 |
| First Springtime Flower |
It is a small Tête-à-Tête Daffodil which was growing in front of a door in a small garden.
Already blooming to celebrate the rebirth of life as the daylight lengthens and the temperatures moderate.
Given the time I spend outside yesterday, it was nice to see the small flower. My own gardens are not far behind, with lots of buds on the daffodils. I noted that the squirrels have decimated all of my tulips--there are none left to enjoy this year. But the patched of daffodils and crocus should be beautiful when they bloom in a few short days.
I also found buds on the plum trees--they are the first bloomers of springtime and I always enjoy their while, lightly fragrant flowers.
Springtime is here! Bring it on.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, March 9, 2013
Welcome 60 Degrees
Chris and I had been working around outside all morning and had already shed our overcoats for just our heavy shirts.
The blue sky, the sunshine, and the work on the house and gardens had begun. The grasses around the pool have been cut, the leaves removed from the gardens and reestablishing the pool area has begun!
It was great to feel the sun on my face. I may have gotten a bit of a sunburn!!
Awesome!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Blue Skies and Sunshine
 |
| The Leaves are Coming |
Saturday dawned with blue skies and sunshine.
It is awesome to look out at the now desolate trees and imagine them covered in green leaves, soon.
It is a pleasant thought. They are bare now, but with the passing of the last storm and the warmer temperatures expected for the week ahead, I believe that buds will form followed by the green of leaves to clothe the trees for the coming summer. Within the next short weeks.
The official beginning of Spring is only eleven short days away on Wednesday, March 20th. Although there is still the chance for cold and even snow, the likelihood is reduced with every passing day. On the 17th, we should cross over and have 12 or more hours of sunlight per day.
But for now, the blue sky is stunning. And while it is still cold outside, it warms me to see the sun and the sky and to imagine the seasons ahead.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Friday, March 8, 2013
Daylight Savings Excitement
Daylight savings time arrives this weekend for its 2013 run.
I'm not sure how I actually can save time. If only I could bank it and withdraw the daylight during the dark days of winter, I know I would feel a lot better.
But at least the sunset which has been happening shortly after 6pm this week, will "magically" occur after 7pm next week all due to the magic of saving daylight! Even the daily temperature highs seem to be affected by daylight savings--as I looked this morning every day next week is expected to have highs in the 50's or even 60's. Of course, this is always subject to change.
Yesterday I drove to work with the sun in my eyes. I enjoyed the sun and the brightening dawn knowing that it will disappear again next week until about May.
Sunday will be the beginning of the springtime daylight extension and the revival of outdoor life. I have a lot of post winter clean-up work to do and I also look forward to sitting outside sipping wine and watching the evening come.
The dark days have passed.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I'm not sure how I actually can save time. If only I could bank it and withdraw the daylight during the dark days of winter, I know I would feel a lot better.
But at least the sunset which has been happening shortly after 6pm this week, will "magically" occur after 7pm next week all due to the magic of saving daylight! Even the daily temperature highs seem to be affected by daylight savings--as I looked this morning every day next week is expected to have highs in the 50's or even 60's. Of course, this is always subject to change.
Yesterday I drove to work with the sun in my eyes. I enjoyed the sun and the brightening dawn knowing that it will disappear again next week until about May.
Sunday will be the beginning of the springtime daylight extension and the revival of outdoor life. I have a lot of post winter clean-up work to do and I also look forward to sitting outside sipping wine and watching the evening come.
The dark days have passed.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Weather, Life, and Forecasts
The weather affects many facets of my life. The predicted snows of yesterday changed my plans for the day which created opportunities from the schedule change.
A number of small, annoying projects around the house were completed--or continued. Something which typically would not happen on a normal Wednesday.
Perhaps this same type of scenario played out many times in the region as thousands of other people realigned their normal work-day into a day off to relax and energize other areas of life.
Thank you weather forecasters for getting the storm so wrong! I was lucky in that although I was expecting to struggle for hours with a snow shovel in my hands, I was spared the opportunity. And I had a day off to reflect and create as well.
I listened to the explanations last evening about why the storm did not materialize as the forecasters predicted--European models. needs for a new super computer, but in the end, for this area, I'm glad it played out the way it did.
I did not have to shovel mountains of wet, heavy snow from my driveway.
I was able to head out shopping to nearly deserted stores.
I worked on projects around the house.
I watched two movies with Chris and even enjoyed one of them.
I recreated, by not having a dozen preplanned things to fill my day.
And Makayla still got her shots--the only preplanned event that happened as planned!
Life is what happens to us while we are busy making other plans! - Allen Saunders
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
A number of small, annoying projects around the house were completed--or continued. Something which typically would not happen on a normal Wednesday.
Perhaps this same type of scenario played out many times in the region as thousands of other people realigned their normal work-day into a day off to relax and energize other areas of life.
Thank you weather forecasters for getting the storm so wrong! I was lucky in that although I was expecting to struggle for hours with a snow shovel in my hands, I was spared the opportunity. And I had a day off to reflect and create as well.
I listened to the explanations last evening about why the storm did not materialize as the forecasters predicted--European models. needs for a new super computer, but in the end, for this area, I'm glad it played out the way it did.
I did not have to shovel mountains of wet, heavy snow from my driveway.
I was able to head out shopping to nearly deserted stores.
I worked on projects around the house.
I watched two movies with Chris and even enjoyed one of them.
I recreated, by not having a dozen preplanned things to fill my day.
And Makayla still got her shots--the only preplanned event that happened as planned!
Life is what happens to us while we are busy making other plans! - Allen Saunders
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Snow Event Fizzles
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| 6PM after a Day of Snow |
It definitely did not rival the blizzard of 1962 which produced 10 inches of wet snow in Baltimore.
The image is of my pool area at 6PM after a day of storm.
Lot's of wet and no snow.
I am not complaining--I at least got a day off from work.
And I saw the weather forecast for next week--60's on Monday!!!!!
Spring is on the near horizon. I may have a case of Spring Fever on Monday! And the benefit is, I don't have to wait for the snow to melt before I enjoy the Springtime.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Still Waiting for Snow-quester
They say the snow is coming.
Where?
I see it on TV nearby, but here, we have rain and nothing significant.
I will continue to monitor, but so far, this is a yawner.
At least I am watching it from the comfort of my arm chair in my own house and on my own computer.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
 |
| Waiting for the Snow Event |
Where?
I see it on TV nearby, but here, we have rain and nothing significant.
I will continue to monitor, but so far, this is a yawner.
At least I am watching it from the comfort of my arm chair in my own house and on my own computer.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Waiting for the Storm
I'm sitting here, watching the local news which is all about the coming storm, wondering why it is that I am so fascinated with watching the television news report the very same thing that I can watch out of my window?
The storm even has a name: Snow-quester!
When I woke this morning the snow was only beginning to coat the grass and trees. Thankfully, I don't have to sojourn to work only to figure out later how to get home again. I remember the old days--long ago, at Griffiss AFB near Rome, NY. One day I drove the 10 miles to work in about 4 inches of snow only to be released about noon and then had to drive home in 10 inches of snow. It took over and hour, but I made it.
Ugh. I'm glad that sadistic kind of work environment has become kinder and gentler. But then, we were fighting the Cold War on a daily basis back then.
Left to my own devices, I would head off to work. It isn't that bad--yet! Maybe that is why the news fascinates me, the 5-10 inches of snow (according to WBAL TV at 6 AM) they are predicting will shut this area down, possibly for two days! The region is just not prepared to operate during heavy snow conditions.
I am conflicted about the area being paralyzed by snow. Philosophically, the region should be able to operate, but do I really want to pay the extra taxes to maintain the equipment and personnel to allow ensure operations when snow in this quantity is a once or twice a season event?
No I don't. There are enough other things upon which to waste my tax dollars.
Knowing that this weather was coming made me appreciate the exceptionally nice day yesterday even more. It was hard to believe that such a nice day was preceding the storm. The sky was clear, the sun shone, temperatures were in the high 40's. I saw many people celebrating by not wearing coats.
Yet today, the snow comes. A new day brings new challenges.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
The storm even has a name: Snow-quester!
When I woke this morning the snow was only beginning to coat the grass and trees. Thankfully, I don't have to sojourn to work only to figure out later how to get home again. I remember the old days--long ago, at Griffiss AFB near Rome, NY. One day I drove the 10 miles to work in about 4 inches of snow only to be released about noon and then had to drive home in 10 inches of snow. It took over and hour, but I made it.
Ugh. I'm glad that sadistic kind of work environment has become kinder and gentler. But then, we were fighting the Cold War on a daily basis back then.
Left to my own devices, I would head off to work. It isn't that bad--yet! Maybe that is why the news fascinates me, the 5-10 inches of snow (according to WBAL TV at 6 AM) they are predicting will shut this area down, possibly for two days! The region is just not prepared to operate during heavy snow conditions.
I am conflicted about the area being paralyzed by snow. Philosophically, the region should be able to operate, but do I really want to pay the extra taxes to maintain the equipment and personnel to allow ensure operations when snow in this quantity is a once or twice a season event?
No I don't. There are enough other things upon which to waste my tax dollars.
Knowing that this weather was coming made me appreciate the exceptionally nice day yesterday even more. It was hard to believe that such a nice day was preceding the storm. The sky was clear, the sun shone, temperatures were in the high 40's. I saw many people celebrating by not wearing coats.
Yet today, the snow comes. A new day brings new challenges.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Two Scenarios -- No Winners, More Winter
With the arrival of March, I had thought the threat of snow and winter had essentially passed.
Turns out not.
They call it Winter Storm Saturn. I call it winter, ugh! Winter is the season that starts too early and ends too late.
Will we get many inches of rain or six plus inches of snow during the course of the next two days? Inquiring minds want to know but there seem to be no absolutes.
In usual Maryland style, the weather is the central topic of discussion for most people. I'm not sure if it is the prospect of a day off or just an inbred dysfunctional love of bad weather.
I took the image at the right this weekend while in Central NY. Looking out the window was like looking at total desolation. White, gray, and cold.
It is coming, I can read the weather reports.
I was looking for the scenario where the storm misses us. It isn't there. At least I have a new roof and don't have to worry about the winter weather.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Turns out not.
They call it Winter Storm Saturn. I call it winter, ugh! Winter is the season that starts too early and ends too late.
Will we get many inches of rain or six plus inches of snow during the course of the next two days? Inquiring minds want to know but there seem to be no absolutes.
In usual Maryland style, the weather is the central topic of discussion for most people. I'm not sure if it is the prospect of a day off or just an inbred dysfunctional love of bad weather.
I took the image at the right this weekend while in Central NY. Looking out the window was like looking at total desolation. White, gray, and cold.
It is coming, I can read the weather reports.
I was looking for the scenario where the storm misses us. It isn't there. At least I have a new roof and don't have to worry about the winter weather.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, March 4, 2013
Monday Musings - March 4, 2013
1. I expect McDonald's to be fast. That is why they call it fast food! I Waited over 10 minutes for coffee at the McDonald's in Whitney Point, NY, yesterday. Really. Waiting for a cup of coffee and then it was terrible.
2. I forgot how bright new fallen snow is even on an overcast day. Break out the sunglasses.
3. The new 10 cent word: sequestration. (BTW, did you notice the old "cent" symbol is no longer on the keyboard?)
4. Does anyone know why gas prices have risen? It isn't even summertime yet.
5. I am amazed at how quickly time flies when I am researching on my computer at home. It doesn't seem to pass at the same rate when I am doing research at work!
6. Maryland is panicked--a storm is approaching. I am very happy to have a new roof. It doesn't seem to be a snowpocalypse repeat though.
7. There is nothing worse than being away on a trip and having a brake pad decide that it needs to be replaced. I got to spend my first couple hours back at home replacing brakes and rotors on Chris' car. Apparently the pad sensor was improperly set or got knocked off alignment.
8. I have determined that with the exception of sporting events, there is nothing much worth watching on television. The era of reality TV is a failure for people searching for meaningful entertainment.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, March 3, 2013
Sunday Snow in Central New York
Apparently it snowed all night. I woke this morning expecting to load the car and head south to milder temperatures only to find more snow and a delay.
I listened to the local weather forecast and heard one common theme: "chance of snow 30 percent." For the next four days! I am reminded why I live further south.
I actually heard someone exclaim that they were at the point where they did not appreciate the snow and cold anymore. I wholeheartedly concur. Waking up and hearing the current weather being reported as "20 degrees and light snow" is just not conducive to getting outside and being active.
Sadly, I did notice that temperatures were in the 40's this morning in Tampa. So the cold is fairly pervasive throughout the eastern part of the US.
Yesterday it snowed all day and Chris and I found ourselves along the west shore of Cayuga Lake. Chris wanted to take some pictures of geese on the lake and I took a picture of her coming across the road back to the car. The lake is in the background. It looks cold. Too cold.
Who would have thought that I would think that today's expected 42 degree high in Baltimore warm?
Where are the palm trees?
-- Bob Doan, Writing from Ithaca, NY
I listened to the local weather forecast and heard one common theme: "chance of snow 30 percent." For the next four days! I am reminded why I live further south.
I actually heard someone exclaim that they were at the point where they did not appreciate the snow and cold anymore. I wholeheartedly concur. Waking up and hearing the current weather being reported as "20 degrees and light snow" is just not conducive to getting outside and being active.
Sadly, I did notice that temperatures were in the 40's this morning in Tampa. So the cold is fairly pervasive throughout the eastern part of the US.
Yesterday it snowed all day and Chris and I found ourselves along the west shore of Cayuga Lake. Chris wanted to take some pictures of geese on the lake and I took a picture of her coming across the road back to the car. The lake is in the background. It looks cold. Too cold.
Who would have thought that I would think that today's expected 42 degree high in Baltimore warm?
Where are the palm trees?
-- Bob Doan, Writing from Ithaca, NY
Saturday, March 2, 2013
From Warm to Cold
Leaving Maryland yesterday, the weather was cool, but better than it had been a week or so ago. Along the route we watched the temperature drop degree by degree. We left Maryland with temperatures in the 40's and arrived in Ithaca with the temperature at 27.
Ugh!
We had to take our winter coats out of the back of the car and wear them.
And it was snowing. I despise snow.
This morning the evidence was clear on the car--snow.
On the trip though, the weather was good, even though snow lightly fell from the sky during most of the trip. The sad part was hat this trip marked the end of Mom and Dad's two-month vacation. Even though all good things end, it is still sad when thy do. But we are left with the memories and the promise of future visits.
For now though, the task at hand is surviving the arctic weather of upstate New York.
Brrrrr!
-- Bob Doan, writing from Ithaca, NY
Ugh!
We had to take our winter coats out of the back of the car and wear them.
And it was snowing. I despise snow.
This morning the evidence was clear on the car--snow.
On the trip though, the weather was good, even though snow lightly fell from the sky during most of the trip. The sad part was hat this trip marked the end of Mom and Dad's two-month vacation. Even though all good things end, it is still sad when thy do. But we are left with the memories and the promise of future visits.
For now though, the task at hand is surviving the arctic weather of upstate New York.
Brrrrr!
-- Bob Doan, writing from Ithaca, NY
Friday, March 1, 2013
March Arrives
As the government wallows in the self-created sequester crisis, February has ended and March has arrived.
Pool opening day is a mere 58 days away. Hopefully surviving March will be a breeze despite the best efforts of Congress to crash the economy and send us all back into the dark ages of economic disaster.
Or not.
There remains time to fix the budget and the economy.
But it is March and while I find it hard to believe that 2013 is already one sixth complete, I am looking forward to the resumption of daylight savings time in a short 10 days followed by springtime shortly thereafter. That means that green will return as the color of the day. And maybe blue skies will become more the rule rather than the exception as March turns into April and then into May.
Next up--daffodils and crocus.
Bring it on.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Pool opening day is a mere 58 days away. Hopefully surviving March will be a breeze despite the best efforts of Congress to crash the economy and send us all back into the dark ages of economic disaster.
Or not.
There remains time to fix the budget and the economy.
But it is March and while I find it hard to believe that 2013 is already one sixth complete, I am looking forward to the resumption of daylight savings time in a short 10 days followed by springtime shortly thereafter. That means that green will return as the color of the day. And maybe blue skies will become more the rule rather than the exception as March turns into April and then into May.
Next up--daffodils and crocus.
Bring it on.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Roof Day -- Success
The new roof day was a great success.
I am not worried about the next hurricane. My new roof will be able to withstand winds of 130 mph.
There was damage--rot. Ugh! Extra costs, but they are repaired now. Although the roof looked good before they started--there was rot. Areas where the rood system had failed. Left unattended, more serious problems and expense would have resulted.
What a beautiful day. The sun even shone for most of the operation.
No rain. No crummy weather.
I was worried whether the weather would hold, but it did.
And now it is done.
Yay.
I do not expect to be on the roof during hurricanes or worrying about leaks
Roofs are just one of those things that I shouldn't have to worry about. And now I don't.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
 |
| Putting the Roofing Shingles into position |
I am not worried about the next hurricane. My new roof will be able to withstand winds of 130 mph.
There was damage--rot. Ugh! Extra costs, but they are repaired now. Although the roof looked good before they started--there was rot. Areas where the rood system had failed. Left unattended, more serious problems and expense would have resulted.
 |
| Repairing Storm Damage |
No rain. No crummy weather.
I was worried whether the weather would hold, but it did.
And now it is done.
Yay.
I do not expect to be on the roof during hurricanes or worrying about leaks
Roofs are just one of those things that I shouldn't have to worry about. And now I don't.
 |
| The New Roof |
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
New Roof Day
It is hard not to be excited about getting a new roof. It is new, after all. It is something that the house has needed for a couple years now--I have been keeping the current roof in service through extra care.
It really became a crisis during Hurricane Sandy, a/k/a/ Frankenstorm, when I was on the roof, accompanied at various times by Chris, Patrick, and Corey working to stem the leaking--successfully, I might add, during the worst part of the storm.
I had the unique experience of driving when the roads were closed to secure roof patch at Home Depot and then climbing up the ladder to try to figure out where the water was coming inside form. Leaks never are where they appear! It is one of those facts of life. I was, however, successful in stemming the flow.
And now, some four months hence and before the summer begins, the roof is being replaced. It is time to reset and restart the timer on my roof. The 22 year-old builders 20-year roof is at the end of its life. I have known this day was coming for some time as there are many new roofs in the neighborhood. I wish that I could take the rook money and do a nice vacation somewhere--but no, it will be reinvested into a roof.
I do not believe new roofs increase the value of a home--they are one of those foundational requirements--roof? Yes. Does it leak? No. Nuff said!
I'm not planning on being here when it expires the next time. I'm getting a lifetime roof--although I'm not sure whether that is my lifetime or the house. In either case, I should not be bothered by roof issues ever again.
I will say, the process of getting quotes for this job was interesting. The variance between the low and high quotes was incredible. The last of the four company's didn't bother leaving a quote because they were going to be $2,000 above the lowest for lesser quality materials. I appreciated getting about an hour of my life back. Note to self--definitely get multiple quotes for big jobs!
They should be arriving soon. I hope the weather holds. At least I'm taking a day off from work to watch/monitor the progress.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
It really became a crisis during Hurricane Sandy, a/k/a/ Frankenstorm, when I was on the roof, accompanied at various times by Chris, Patrick, and Corey working to stem the leaking--successfully, I might add, during the worst part of the storm.
I had the unique experience of driving when the roads were closed to secure roof patch at Home Depot and then climbing up the ladder to try to figure out where the water was coming inside form. Leaks never are where they appear! It is one of those facts of life. I was, however, successful in stemming the flow.
And now, some four months hence and before the summer begins, the roof is being replaced. It is time to reset and restart the timer on my roof. The 22 year-old builders 20-year roof is at the end of its life. I have known this day was coming for some time as there are many new roofs in the neighborhood. I wish that I could take the rook money and do a nice vacation somewhere--but no, it will be reinvested into a roof.
I do not believe new roofs increase the value of a home--they are one of those foundational requirements--roof? Yes. Does it leak? No. Nuff said!
I'm not planning on being here when it expires the next time. I'm getting a lifetime roof--although I'm not sure whether that is my lifetime or the house. In either case, I should not be bothered by roof issues ever again.
I will say, the process of getting quotes for this job was interesting. The variance between the low and high quotes was incredible. The last of the four company's didn't bother leaving a quote because they were going to be $2,000 above the lowest for lesser quality materials. I appreciated getting about an hour of my life back. Note to self--definitely get multiple quotes for big jobs!
They should be arriving soon. I hope the weather holds. At least I'm taking a day off from work to watch/monitor the progress.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Come into the Sunlight
It happened yesterday morning for the first time this year.
I had to put my sunglasses on while driving to work--the sun was out and bright!
I have been watching the sunrises for a number of weeks now, but finally, yesterday, the skies were clear and the sun was in my eyes. It was wonderful!
Sadly, it is only temporary. Daylight savings time will soon return my morning commute to darkness until May when again I will be bathed in the glow of morning's dawn for a few months as I make my way to work.
Maybe I should go into work later in order to enjoy the sunlit morning commute. But no, then I would get to enjoy less of the afternoon and evening which can be so productive and enjoyable.
I already imagine sitting around the pool enjoying the warm evenings, swatting at the hordes of mosquitoes which desire to use me for their evening meal, enjoying the gathering golden light of the sunset only to dream of another dawn.
And another day.
The sunlight was a big change from the dreary darkness of last week. It makes the entire week seem full of promise and excitement.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I had to put my sunglasses on while driving to work--the sun was out and bright!
I have been watching the sunrises for a number of weeks now, but finally, yesterday, the skies were clear and the sun was in my eyes. It was wonderful!
Sadly, it is only temporary. Daylight savings time will soon return my morning commute to darkness until May when again I will be bathed in the glow of morning's dawn for a few months as I make my way to work.
Maybe I should go into work later in order to enjoy the sunlit morning commute. But no, then I would get to enjoy less of the afternoon and evening which can be so productive and enjoyable.
I already imagine sitting around the pool enjoying the warm evenings, swatting at the hordes of mosquitoes which desire to use me for their evening meal, enjoying the gathering golden light of the sunset only to dream of another dawn.
And another day.
The sunlight was a big change from the dreary darkness of last week. It makes the entire week seem full of promise and excitement.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, February 25, 2013
Monday Musings - February 25, 2013
1. Oscars! Now we know that Argo is the big winner.
2. It is amazing how warm 50 degrees seems after suffering through so many days in a row with highs in the 30's.
3. The Orioles have won their first two Spring Training games. Hope springs anew for another season!
4. How cool is it that the science community has found a missing continent. I wonder who misplaced it?
5. What is a Unicorn Apocalypse? "I want them to look like real unicorns. The way they look in real life." That, friends, is a television commercial.
6. I know that Springtime is near--the Daytona 500 was run yesterday.
7. I listened to a Spring Training baseball game on the radio! Sadly, by the seventh inning I didn't recognize many of the players.
8. By this time next week, the U.S. could be in its worst economic and budgetary crisis ever!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
2. It is amazing how warm 50 degrees seems after suffering through so many days in a row with highs in the 30's.
3. The Orioles have won their first two Spring Training games. Hope springs anew for another season!
4. How cool is it that the science community has found a missing continent. I wonder who misplaced it?
5. What is a Unicorn Apocalypse? "I want them to look like real unicorns. The way they look in real life." That, friends, is a television commercial.
6. I know that Springtime is near--the Daytona 500 was run yesterday.
7. I listened to a Spring Training baseball game on the radio! Sadly, by the seventh inning I didn't recognize many of the players.
8. By this time next week, the U.S. could be in its worst economic and budgetary crisis ever!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Here it Comes!
Chris exclaimed this morning, "Stop, everyone, look outside. The sun is shining!"
And so it was, or more correctly, is. The sky has a bluish hue to it and the bright orb that has taken its leave from us lately has returned.
Amazingly, as I surveyed the yard I found that the daffodils are springing up in anticipation of warmer weather. They are really up and I expect to see some flowers during the course of the next few weeks.
Even the cats are headed outside more. The temperature is above freezing and headed for near 50 today. I was joking that on Wednesday is the temperatures get above 50 degrees I may put the top down and drive Cat around--just because.
With the sun shining, though, I know it is going to be a great day. Even more, because we will be celebrating Jax's fifth birthday.
Here comes the sun!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
And so it was, or more correctly, is. The sky has a bluish hue to it and the bright orb that has taken its leave from us lately has returned.
Amazingly, as I surveyed the yard I found that the daffodils are springing up in anticipation of warmer weather. They are really up and I expect to see some flowers during the course of the next few weeks.
Even the cats are headed outside more. The temperature is above freezing and headed for near 50 today. I was joking that on Wednesday is the temperatures get above 50 degrees I may put the top down and drive Cat around--just because.
With the sun shining, though, I know it is going to be a great day. Even more, because we will be celebrating Jax's fifth birthday.
Here comes the sun!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, February 23, 2013
Whether the Weather
I am amazed how much the weather affects me. And, it seems, so are many people around me.
This week was a good example. The weather was gray, and cold, and generally miserable. By the end of the week, so was I. Today is no better. Cold, overcast, and rainy.
As this week wore on, tempers became short, skin became thin, and emotions began to run high. I came home from work last evening with a banging headache and feeling totally drained. I think everyone I know is ready for blue skies, sunshine, and mid-70's (or higher) temperatures.
On the positive side, the Orioles are playing their first Spring Training game today! Summer cannot be far off. I looked at the forecast for Sarasota, Florida (where the Orioles hold Spring Training) and saw sunshine and 80 degree temperatures. I wish I was there. Right now!
But, I am not. I have to take Makayla to get her nails done and accomplish a number of other tasks around the house today. All the while, looking at the cold, gray dampness which has descended upon everything.
I did enjoy Ethan's last basketball game of the season already this morning. At least that means that youth baseball season is about to begin!
The weather is a fact of life. It is just amazing how much it affects the quality of life.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
This week was a good example. The weather was gray, and cold, and generally miserable. By the end of the week, so was I. Today is no better. Cold, overcast, and rainy.
As this week wore on, tempers became short, skin became thin, and emotions began to run high. I came home from work last evening with a banging headache and feeling totally drained. I think everyone I know is ready for blue skies, sunshine, and mid-70's (or higher) temperatures.
On the positive side, the Orioles are playing their first Spring Training game today! Summer cannot be far off. I looked at the forecast for Sarasota, Florida (where the Orioles hold Spring Training) and saw sunshine and 80 degree temperatures. I wish I was there. Right now!
But, I am not. I have to take Makayla to get her nails done and accomplish a number of other tasks around the house today. All the while, looking at the cold, gray dampness which has descended upon everything.
I did enjoy Ethan's last basketball game of the season already this morning. At least that means that youth baseball season is about to begin!
The weather is a fact of life. It is just amazing how much it affects the quality of life.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Friday, February 22, 2013
Sequestration and Playing Chicken
Does it matter that the Democrats want to break the back of the Republican Party, or that the Republicans want to embarrass the President?
All Americans will suffer if our leaders cannot agree to govern and stop acting like spoiled children in the sand box. There are no parents to save the day and make the kids play nice.
What happens if the meltdown is allowed to occur next Friday?
- Our country will move from a bad reality TV show into disaster.
- Our currency is devalued raising the costs of imports increasing the pain on consumers.
- The price of gas sky rockets.
- The prestige and honor of our great republic is forever tarnished.
While these battles are not unlike those waged between Jefferson and Adams, at least our founding fathers retained the perspective that the country must survive.
I am not so sure about our current leaders. It seems they are content to play a dangerous game of chicken.
By the way--even if we dodge the sequestration bullet, the country still does not have a budget.
It is a mess--no matter what rock we look under.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
All Americans will suffer if our leaders cannot agree to govern and stop acting like spoiled children in the sand box. There are no parents to save the day and make the kids play nice.
What happens if the meltdown is allowed to occur next Friday?
- Our country will move from a bad reality TV show into disaster.
- Our currency is devalued raising the costs of imports increasing the pain on consumers.
- The price of gas sky rockets.
- The prestige and honor of our great republic is forever tarnished.
While these battles are not unlike those waged between Jefferson and Adams, at least our founding fathers retained the perspective that the country must survive.
I am not so sure about our current leaders. It seems they are content to play a dangerous game of chicken.
By the way--even if we dodge the sequestration bullet, the country still does not have a budget.
It is a mess--no matter what rock we look under.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Thursday, February 21, 2013
I Don't Want to Know How to Spell That Word
It is coming.
The economic gains of the past two years are about to be lost because our dysfunctional government cannot agree on a budgetary way forward.
The word is sequestration. It means the demise of the U.S. economy, defense, and livelihood for all. While to some it may sound like a good way to reduce the debt and the size of government--I will be a disaster because of the senseless cookie cutter approach that it will apply.
If we think our government is bad now--just wait, we haven't seen anything yet. Most people have no idea how much they depend on the Federal Government for the livelihood they enjoy. And I do not mean just federal workers, who are the lowest of pawns in this embarrassing display of ineptitude.
The U.S. is acting like a has-been third world nation.
Both sides are playing brinkmanship politics with results that could cost far more than will ever be saved.
No one is going to win in the end. So to quote a line from a movie: "The only winning move is not to play."
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
The economic gains of the past two years are about to be lost because our dysfunctional government cannot agree on a budgetary way forward.
The word is sequestration. It means the demise of the U.S. economy, defense, and livelihood for all. While to some it may sound like a good way to reduce the debt and the size of government--I will be a disaster because of the senseless cookie cutter approach that it will apply.
If we think our government is bad now--just wait, we haven't seen anything yet. Most people have no idea how much they depend on the Federal Government for the livelihood they enjoy. And I do not mean just federal workers, who are the lowest of pawns in this embarrassing display of ineptitude.
The U.S. is acting like a has-been third world nation.
Both sides are playing brinkmanship politics with results that could cost far more than will ever be saved.
No one is going to win in the end. So to quote a line from a movie: "The only winning move is not to play."
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Knowing Who is Standing with Me is What Matters
I've been in a low spot. It could be the lack of sunshine, the continuing too cold weather, the pace at work, or my crummy racquetball outings--but nonetheless, I've been in a low spot. I played a racquetball match last evening and even though I had a lead late in both games, I knew I'd blow it, and I did. It was a self fulfilling prophecy.
That written, I have come across a powerful song released last year by one of my favorite artists, Chris Tomlin. The song is Whom Shall I Fear? As I have been struggling against the cold darkness of the season and self-doubt, this song had lifted my spirit.
It is a very uplifting song and I highly recommend it. Click on the link to YouTube above to see the words and hear the song.
The refrain lyrics are:
Perspective! That's what matters when I get too focused on the crummy seasonal weather, losing racquetball matches, being wrong more than I am right, or when I begin to doubt myself and my ability.
I saw the sunrise yesterday grace the sky on my way to work. It was fabulous. The promise of the new day stretched out in front of me dragged me into the dawn of an exciting new day full of possibilities. I've got a lot of stuff to do every day and I need to take more enjoyment from the tasks completed than perseverating over the tasks remaining.
That written, I have come across a powerful song released last year by one of my favorite artists, Chris Tomlin. The song is Whom Shall I Fear? As I have been struggling against the cold darkness of the season and self-doubt, this song had lifted my spirit.
It is a very uplifting song and I highly recommend it. Click on the link to YouTube above to see the words and hear the song.
The refrain lyrics are:
I know who goes before me
I know who stands behind me
The God of angel armies
Is always by my side
The one who reigns forever
He is a friend of mine
The God of angel armies
Is always by my side
Perspective! That's what matters when I get too focused on the crummy seasonal weather, losing racquetball matches, being wrong more than I am right, or when I begin to doubt myself and my ability.
I saw the sunrise yesterday grace the sky on my way to work. It was fabulous. The promise of the new day stretched out in front of me dragged me into the dawn of an exciting new day full of possibilities. I've got a lot of stuff to do every day and I need to take more enjoyment from the tasks completed than perseverating over the tasks remaining.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Perceptions: They Matter
Caution: This entry may be unsuitable until after the first cup of coffee in the morning.
I ran across an interesting pie chart the other day which all to clearly highlights the image problems that Christians have today in America. I found it on Facebook originally and then this liberal site: Democratic Underground. Doing a Google search, I found it on many sites.
I was shocked to see something so simple lay out a serious public perception problem so clearly.
Christians in America today, and this is a broad generalization, are missing the boat on the truly important issues that they are uniquely gifted to undertake. While there is likely little science behind this chart, and I an pretty sure the entire thing was fabricated--Christians need to take note that the report card is not good.
Reading the comments on the referenced site are very interesting and help to demonstrate that although it is important to be politically active and work to change the world, the way we are supposed to change the world is by one heart at a time. I was shocked that no measurable posts were devoted to helping the sick and needy.
I was reminded of Romans 13:1: "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except by God’s appointment, and the authorities that exist have been instituted by God." -- NET Bible
While I too believe that political activism is important, Christians need to be seen as more than just the radical side of the Republican Party--or Tea Party, or whatever. They need an identity separate from politics. It is clear that the current wave of political activism is overshadowing the important good that christians in America are doing every day. Christians are under attack--and many of them are painting big red bullseye targets on their backs to give the opposition more places to aim.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I ran across an interesting pie chart the other day which all to clearly highlights the image problems that Christians have today in America. I found it on Facebook originally and then this liberal site: Democratic Underground. Doing a Google search, I found it on many sites.
I was shocked to see something so simple lay out a serious public perception problem so clearly.
Christians in America today, and this is a broad generalization, are missing the boat on the truly important issues that they are uniquely gifted to undertake. While there is likely little science behind this chart, and I an pretty sure the entire thing was fabricated--Christians need to take note that the report card is not good.
Reading the comments on the referenced site are very interesting and help to demonstrate that although it is important to be politically active and work to change the world, the way we are supposed to change the world is by one heart at a time. I was shocked that no measurable posts were devoted to helping the sick and needy.
I was reminded of Romans 13:1: "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except by God’s appointment, and the authorities that exist have been instituted by God." -- NET Bible
While I too believe that political activism is important, Christians need to be seen as more than just the radical side of the Republican Party--or Tea Party, or whatever. They need an identity separate from politics. It is clear that the current wave of political activism is overshadowing the important good that christians in America are doing every day. Christians are under attack--and many of them are painting big red bullseye targets on their backs to give the opposition more places to aim.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, February 18, 2013
Monday Musings - February 18, 2013
1. Happy President's Day.
2. Maybe because I played hooky form church yesterday, but I was reflecting upon the meteors which fell in Russia and other places across the planet late last week and I ran through Matthew 24:29 in my head where it was written "the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of heaven will be shaken." Just wondering.
3. Yesterday was the second successive week without football, but the hockey felt great with the Penguins winning a close game against the Sabers. Baseball is coming.
4. I was amused by the newspaper article about two brothers who won $75,000 in the lottery and then accidentally blew-up their house during the drug induced celebration. Certainly there has to be a better way to celebrate.
5. I saw the movie Escape from Planet Earth over the weekend. It is OK for kids.
6. I was shocked that the temperature outside my window was 19 degrees this morning. I thought I would be seeing warmer temperatures.
7. I bought a pasta maker last summer and I used it for the first time yesterday. It was fun and the pasta was grey--although there certainly was a lot of it. I am amazed that it took almost eight months before I took it out of the box and used the pasta maker.
8. I think I finally received my the last statements necessary to accomplish preparing my taxes on Saturday. Now I have to decide what week I want to be totally depressed about how much I am paying for the dysfunctional government that I am receiving.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
2. Maybe because I played hooky form church yesterday, but I was reflecting upon the meteors which fell in Russia and other places across the planet late last week and I ran through Matthew 24:29 in my head where it was written "the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of heaven will be shaken." Just wondering.
3. Yesterday was the second successive week without football, but the hockey felt great with the Penguins winning a close game against the Sabers. Baseball is coming.
4. I was amused by the newspaper article about two brothers who won $75,000 in the lottery and then accidentally blew-up their house during the drug induced celebration. Certainly there has to be a better way to celebrate.
5. I saw the movie Escape from Planet Earth over the weekend. It is OK for kids.
6. I was shocked that the temperature outside my window was 19 degrees this morning. I thought I would be seeing warmer temperatures.
7. I bought a pasta maker last summer and I used it for the first time yesterday. It was fun and the pasta was grey--although there certainly was a lot of it. I am amazed that it took almost eight months before I took it out of the box and used the pasta maker.
8. I think I finally received my the last statements necessary to accomplish preparing my taxes on Saturday. Now I have to decide what week I want to be totally depressed about how much I am paying for the dysfunctional government that I am receiving.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Two Apologies Don't Make a Right
Caution: This is a religiously oriented entry suitable for Sunday reading.
A couple of weeks ago I read about how the president of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS) had requested and received and apology from the LCMS pastor who jointly participated in the interfaith memorial service held in the aftermath of the tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut.
I used to be a member of the LCMS--that does not make me an expert, but this episode does confirm some of the reasons that I chose to leave the fiercely conservative, almost to a fault, reclusive branch of Protestantism.
I was amazed that the president of the synod has now apologized for asking for the apology. A New York Times article details the situation:
The problem is that the LCMS prohibits their pastors from participating in multi-faith public expressions of religion. They do not want to give the impression that there are many paths to salvation. Yet--while they may grasp a tactical situation, they miss the strategic--if no one is there to represent the path to salvation (and don't misunderstand, I'm not saying that the LCMS way is the one true way) then how are people supposed to hear the good news?
The New York Times article goes on to write about it this way from the words of the President of the LCMS:
We get dirty doing work. The type of shenanigans represented by the LCMS in this case makes all Christians look petty.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
A couple of weeks ago I read about how the president of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS) had requested and received and apology from the LCMS pastor who jointly participated in the interfaith memorial service held in the aftermath of the tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut.
I used to be a member of the LCMS--that does not make me an expert, but this episode does confirm some of the reasons that I chose to leave the fiercely conservative, almost to a fault, reclusive branch of Protestantism.
I was amazed that the president of the synod has now apologized for asking for the apology. A New York Times article details the situation:
"The Rev. Matthew C. Harrison, president of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, had sought, and received, an apology from the Newtown pastor, the Rev. Rob Morris, for violating the denomination’s prohibition against joint worship with people of other faiths. But in the face of intense criticism, Mr. Harrison this week apologized himself.
“I naïvely thought an apology for offense in the church would allow us to move quickly beyond internal controversy and toward a less emotional process of working through our differences, well out of the public spotlight,” Mr. Harrison wrote on the church’s Web site. “That plan failed miserably.”
The problem is that the LCMS prohibits their pastors from participating in multi-faith public expressions of religion. They do not want to give the impression that there are many paths to salvation. Yet--while they may grasp a tactical situation, they miss the strategic--if no one is there to represent the path to salvation (and don't misunderstand, I'm not saying that the LCMS way is the one true way) then how are people supposed to hear the good news?
The New York Times article goes on to write about it this way from the words of the President of the LCMS:
“One view is that by standing side-by-side with non-Christian clergy in public religious events, we give the impression that Christ is just one path among many,” he wrote. “Others view participation as an opportunity to share Christ and to truly love a hurting community, which may not happen if we are not participating. We struggle with the tension between these two views.”My view? If Christians are withdrawing from the hurt and pain of the world when people need them most because we are worried about how it is going to look, then what good are we? Standing in the darkest places of life providing hope and encouragement to people filled with grief and sadness can never be wrong, can it? In my view, it is the difference between being on the front lines of the battle or hiding away in seclusion and advising others on what they are doing wrong.
We get dirty doing work. The type of shenanigans represented by the LCMS in this case makes all Christians look petty.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Springtime is Getting Close Because . . .
- The Orioles have started training in Sarasota and this year, unlike many other springtimes, there is a real sense of excitement about the prospects for this team based upon their success last year.
- Football season has ended.
- We were supposed to get two snow storms this week which produced rain with only a smattering of snow.
- The crocus and daffodils are showing in the gardens
- I feel a need to open the pool, even though my designated date is still 70 days away.
- I am watching the sunrise on my way to work
- It is not dark when I arrive home, in fact I'm beginning to think about starting yard work
- I've been looking at the pool supply catalog and planning the assault on my credit card to have everything in place for opening day.
- We enjoyed two 50 degree days this past week.
- I have my tickets to Orioles Opening Day.
- Ash Wednesday is behind me and Easter in ahead.
- The reservations have been made for summer vacation.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
- Football season has ended.
- We were supposed to get two snow storms this week which produced rain with only a smattering of snow.
- The crocus and daffodils are showing in the gardens
- I feel a need to open the pool, even though my designated date is still 70 days away.
- I am watching the sunrise on my way to work
- It is not dark when I arrive home, in fact I'm beginning to think about starting yard work
- I've been looking at the pool supply catalog and planning the assault on my credit card to have everything in place for opening day.
- We enjoyed two 50 degree days this past week.
- I have my tickets to Orioles Opening Day.
- Ash Wednesday is behind me and Easter in ahead.
- The reservations have been made for summer vacation.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Friday, February 15, 2013
Rocket Powered Wagon
While in Huntsville the other day, I was able to take a few moments out of my much too busy day to expand my mind by making my first ever visit to the Marshall Space Flight Center Space and Rocket Museum. I highly recommend a visit there for anyone fascinated by space flight and rockets.
There is a revealing and interesting exhibit at the museum devoted to the Von Braun who really became the driving force behind the US space program in the years following his escape from the crumbling Nazi Germany at the end of World War II. Had he not made the decision to surrender to the American, he and many of his associates would have become Soviet scientists helping their space program.
One of the items in the museum which caught my fancy was a rocket powered wagon that Von Braun experimented with as a child.
It is a simple wagon equipped with six strap on rockets. The story goes that,
"At the age of 12 he tried his first practical rocket experiment. He strapped six rockets to a small wagon, and lit them up. The wagon performed beyond his wildest dreams and careened about crazily, trailing a tail of fire like a comet. When the rockets finally burned out, ending their sparkling performance with a magnificent thunderclap, the wagon rolled majestically to a halt. The police, who arrived late for the beginning of his experiment, but in time for the grand finale, were unappreciative. They took young Wernher into custody. Fortunately, no one was injured and he was released to the Minister of Agriculture, his father. So began a career in rocketry that changed human history."
I had to smile at the thought of the unmanned wagon wildly careening down the street powered by rockets. And then, I realized, that in today's America such a raw display of genius and creativity would be met with jail time and law suits. How different our society has become. ALthough I recognize that we no longer need to have children "kick the tires and light the fires" of their wagons to better understand how rockets work, I wonder where we a stifling that raw creativity with our stodgy, incredibly law oriented society.
I will treasure the image of a boy watching his wagon shoot off down a street in early-20th century Germany powered by two home made rockets. Raw creativity and genius.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, Md
There is a revealing and interesting exhibit at the museum devoted to the Von Braun who really became the driving force behind the US space program in the years following his escape from the crumbling Nazi Germany at the end of World War II. Had he not made the decision to surrender to the American, he and many of his associates would have become Soviet scientists helping their space program.
 |
| Rocket Powered Wagon on Display at the Marshall Space Flight Center Museum |
One of the items in the museum which caught my fancy was a rocket powered wagon that Von Braun experimented with as a child.
It is a simple wagon equipped with six strap on rockets. The story goes that,
"At the age of 12 he tried his first practical rocket experiment. He strapped six rockets to a small wagon, and lit them up. The wagon performed beyond his wildest dreams and careened about crazily, trailing a tail of fire like a comet. When the rockets finally burned out, ending their sparkling performance with a magnificent thunderclap, the wagon rolled majestically to a halt. The police, who arrived late for the beginning of his experiment, but in time for the grand finale, were unappreciative. They took young Wernher into custody. Fortunately, no one was injured and he was released to the Minister of Agriculture, his father. So began a career in rocketry that changed human history."
I had to smile at the thought of the unmanned wagon wildly careening down the street powered by rockets. And then, I realized, that in today's America such a raw display of genius and creativity would be met with jail time and law suits. How different our society has become. ALthough I recognize that we no longer need to have children "kick the tires and light the fires" of their wagons to better understand how rockets work, I wonder where we a stifling that raw creativity with our stodgy, incredibly law oriented society.
I will treasure the image of a boy watching his wagon shoot off down a street in early-20th century Germany powered by two home made rockets. Raw creativity and genius.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, Md
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Valentine's Day
Happy Valentine's Day.
Ok, so it is a bit trite and a manufactured holiday which has been overtaken by the greeting card industry to turn a profit.
But like so many holidays, if we can get by the history and the homage to the saints of the catholic church named Valentine, there is a thread of good contained within as we remember, recognize, and honor those whom we love and admire.
It is good also to consider and remember the history of the day and the stories of those who caused the day to be named for them. In this sense, the day has a history much like that of President's Day--which we celebrate on Monday, but which is really the fusion of two former holidays--Washington's and Lincoln's birthdays into a single day to honor the pPresidents of these United States.
Give your love a kiss and say Happy Valentine's Day. It is good for the soul and probably the relationship. That the day has its roots commemorating a man who was martyred for marrying Christians is also nice to know.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Ok, so it is a bit trite and a manufactured holiday which has been overtaken by the greeting card industry to turn a profit.
But like so many holidays, if we can get by the history and the homage to the saints of the catholic church named Valentine, there is a thread of good contained within as we remember, recognize, and honor those whom we love and admire.
It is good also to consider and remember the history of the day and the stories of those who caused the day to be named for them. In this sense, the day has a history much like that of President's Day--which we celebrate on Monday, but which is really the fusion of two former holidays--Washington's and Lincoln's birthdays into a single day to honor the pPresidents of these United States.
Give your love a kiss and say Happy Valentine's Day. It is good for the soul and probably the relationship. That the day has its roots commemorating a man who was martyred for marrying Christians is also nice to know.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Turning Points of History
I had the opportunity to review three student projects for History Day at Chris's middle school. I was amazed at how the students were very focused upon war and battles as turning points in history to the exclusion of the geopolitical circumstances which caused the opposing sides to choose military action to resolve their disputes.
Two of the projects were about the U.S. Revolution--and were reports focused on the Battles of Lexington and Concord. The other project that I reviewed was about the Vietnam Draft. I was amazed at the lack of context that the projects displayed. Taken outside of the historical context of the time, the battles seem to be turning points and yet--they are just battles in wars. I longed for a sense of completeness which would portray the battles as an extension of the conflicts which were occurring in the economic and political spheres of the time.
Did the Intolerable Acts result the Battles of Lexington and Concord and are these battles truly turning points in history? Or, are the results of the conflict of the period to be found in our Bill of Rights? And also in our Constitution which became a template for many other similar constitutions around the world? Were these Battles turning points in history? I think not. They represented turning points of thought and helped to create a nation out of the Declaration of Independence.
How was the Vietnam Draft a turning point in history? I'm not sure. Conscription has been around for centuries in many countries. Yes, it was bad. I had a lottery number. But the draft was not the turning point of the period, the entire ill-advised war in Vietnam was the turning point--and if a battle can be a turning point, it was perhaps the Tet Offensive which galvanized U.S. public opinion against the war. Terminating the draft would not have changed public perceptions of the war.
I am a worried that our students are not being provided with a comprehensive, thought provoking history curriculum that stimulates thought and understanding by providing context and completeness.
That written, I enjoyed my experience and the opportunity to interact with the students. I found them to be inquisitive and engaging. I look forward to doing it again next year.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Two of the projects were about the U.S. Revolution--and were reports focused on the Battles of Lexington and Concord. The other project that I reviewed was about the Vietnam Draft. I was amazed at the lack of context that the projects displayed. Taken outside of the historical context of the time, the battles seem to be turning points and yet--they are just battles in wars. I longed for a sense of completeness which would portray the battles as an extension of the conflicts which were occurring in the economic and political spheres of the time.
Did the Intolerable Acts result the Battles of Lexington and Concord and are these battles truly turning points in history? Or, are the results of the conflict of the period to be found in our Bill of Rights? And also in our Constitution which became a template for many other similar constitutions around the world? Were these Battles turning points in history? I think not. They represented turning points of thought and helped to create a nation out of the Declaration of Independence.
How was the Vietnam Draft a turning point in history? I'm not sure. Conscription has been around for centuries in many countries. Yes, it was bad. I had a lottery number. But the draft was not the turning point of the period, the entire ill-advised war in Vietnam was the turning point--and if a battle can be a turning point, it was perhaps the Tet Offensive which galvanized U.S. public opinion against the war. Terminating the draft would not have changed public perceptions of the war.
I am a worried that our students are not being provided with a comprehensive, thought provoking history curriculum that stimulates thought and understanding by providing context and completeness.
That written, I enjoyed my experience and the opportunity to interact with the students. I found them to be inquisitive and engaging. I look forward to doing it again next year.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
In Between Sunday
Sunday was a unique day. I did not watch any sporting events, or even part of a sporting event on television.
There was no football--the Ravens won it all last week. I'm still in shock and awe over that outcome.
I chose not to watch the Penguins lose a second game in two days to the Devils. And I stayed away from the Syracuse basketball game. These were the only games in which I had any interest. But, I took a sports hiatus in preparation for the resumption of my favorite sport: baseball.
I actually got some of the small projects started and some others further along around the house. It was kind of surreal.
I did make a trip to Home Depot after church. It was my second trip in two days for the all important "stuff."And now there are a number of mid-winter projects underway.
It was an in between Sunday. No sports and all work.
I know that opening day for baseball is coming soon, I have my tickets in hand and am ready to go. Until then, I will dream of baseball, hot summer days, and a World Series ring.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
There was no football--the Ravens won it all last week. I'm still in shock and awe over that outcome.
I chose not to watch the Penguins lose a second game in two days to the Devils. And I stayed away from the Syracuse basketball game. These were the only games in which I had any interest. But, I took a sports hiatus in preparation for the resumption of my favorite sport: baseball.
I actually got some of the small projects started and some others further along around the house. It was kind of surreal.
I did make a trip to Home Depot after church. It was my second trip in two days for the all important "stuff."And now there are a number of mid-winter projects underway.
It was an in between Sunday. No sports and all work.
I know that opening day for baseball is coming soon, I have my tickets in hand and am ready to go. Until then, I will dream of baseball, hot summer days, and a World Series ring.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, February 11, 2013
Monday Musings - February 11, 2013
1. Using the restroom during my flight from Anchorage last Friday, I noticed something truly weird.. There was an ashtray built into the door. I know I remember hearing something about it being a violation of federal law to smoke on an airplane. Why build an ashtray into the door?
2. My latest "crisis" is that the wine refrigerator has decided not to work. It is amazing how dependent I have become upon an appliance that I rarely consider. New parts are on order based upon internet troubleshooting.
3. I was reading the comments attached to an article about Federal Worker's pay and was appalled at the lack of understanding that some with vociferous opinions display about subject.
4. Watching the northeast prepare for the blizzard, I was happy not to be included in the fun.
5. Cold weather is preferable to snowy weather. Palm trees on the beach are the best, though.
6. It is February. Baseball Spring Training gets underway this week. Yay, I can almost smell the scent of opening day.
7. I saw a flock of Robins yesterday who have returned. Spring is closer than we think!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
2. My latest "crisis" is that the wine refrigerator has decided not to work. It is amazing how dependent I have become upon an appliance that I rarely consider. New parts are on order based upon internet troubleshooting.
3. I was reading the comments attached to an article about Federal Worker's pay and was appalled at the lack of understanding that some with vociferous opinions display about subject.
4. Watching the northeast prepare for the blizzard, I was happy not to be included in the fun.
5. Cold weather is preferable to snowy weather. Palm trees on the beach are the best, though.
6. It is February. Baseball Spring Training gets underway this week. Yay, I can almost smell the scent of opening day.
7. I saw a flock of Robins yesterday who have returned. Spring is closer than we think!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Signs of the Times
Occasionally, while shopping, I run across items that make me smile.
This sign caught my eye the other day and I can imagine many potential uses for it.
Think, for example, I could display this sign while waiting in a store and looking at display items to kill time instead of being accosted by the sales staff. Of course, it was a bit frustrating to be in Home Depot the other day and have three staff members ask me if I needed help--because I didn't. But it seems that when I need help, none are ever around.
Think about displaying this sign when a conversation begins to run long because the other participant begins to include too much detail that is only peripherally related to the problem. Seriously, what's the purpose?
I did not buy the sign--because it could be considered insulting or in poor taste if I posted it in a work area.
But, I still enjoy thinking about it potential uses.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
This sign caught my eye the other day and I can imagine many potential uses for it.
Think, for example, I could display this sign while waiting in a store and looking at display items to kill time instead of being accosted by the sales staff. Of course, it was a bit frustrating to be in Home Depot the other day and have three staff members ask me if I needed help--because I didn't. But it seems that when I need help, none are ever around.
Think about displaying this sign when a conversation begins to run long because the other participant begins to include too much detail that is only peripherally related to the problem. Seriously, what's the purpose?
I did not buy the sign--because it could be considered insulting or in poor taste if I posted it in a work area.
But, I still enjoy thinking about it potential uses.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Flying Home -- Children on the Airplane
Before boarding my flight to Minneapolis form Anchorage, I was concerned about the family with two small children in the waiting area. The children were screamers. Not just your average run of the mill unhappy children, but first class, top of their lungs screamers.
Their ability to create tension once on the plane was unsurpassed. The small children screamed so loud above the volume of the music in my earphones that often I could not hear the song. Who knew kids could scream with such intensity for so many hours. I was numb and trapped in the airplane at 39,000 feet.
Their ability to create tension once on the plane was unsurpassed. The small children screamed so loud above the volume of the music in my earphones that often I could not hear the song. Who knew kids could scream with such intensity for so many hours. I was numb and trapped in the airplane at 39,000 feet.
I don't know whether I felt worse for the parents or the other 200 plus passengers on the flight. And one kid was a toddler. It was a five hour flight. I actually was trying to determine how much hearing loss would occur if I turned up the Billy Joel music I was listening to in order to effectively mask the noise.
The only one relaxing on the flight was Sweetie, the golden lab working dog seated behind me. She didn't seem to mind the noise. I couldn't even read my book or think of anything other than getting off the plane and hoping that they were not heading to Baltimore. Which, thankfully, they were not.
I tried playing solitaire on my iPad, what a disaster, I couldn't even think about the cards.
Maybe if the airline had offered free alcohol I could have overcome the noise. Or shared it with the parents. Suffice it to say, it was the longest five hour flight I have ever taken and those kids set a record for the number of hours they agitated over 200 other people who were trapped in the aircraft with them.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Friday, February 8, 2013
Sweetie flies
And she was.
-- Bob Doan, writing from somewhere over America
Sightseeing in Alaska
It is amazing how quickly the time has passed.
Only one day, the first, was sunny and bright; at least for part of the day. And fortunately, I snapped a couple of images from the car just in case. Unfortunately, just in case came to pass and the remainder of my off time from work was snowy, too cold, and ofter dark.
Those conditions just do not make the best combination for sightseeing.
In fact, the most interesting thing that I believe I have seen are the heavy snow laden pine trees which approximate those in my Snow Village.
Today is another long travel day. Ugh.
Who knew that Alaska was so far away?
-- Bob Doan, writing from Anchorage, AK
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Out the Hotel Window - Anchorage in the Daylight
I have found some scenery here. Yesterday, for instance, I saw snow flakes falling from the sky. Lots of them. About three inches of accumulation which would have been enough to shut down everything in Maryland.
But no, what I saw was actually pretty amazing. Snow plows on the roads keeping the lanes clear. What a concept. And I saw drivers that were able to drive on the snow. From that perspective, it was encouraging to be reminded that snow does not have to create a regional shut down.
Was it pretty?
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. My eye was looking for palm trees and sandy beaches where I could hold a cold drink in my hand without getting frostbite. But, I did enjoy the way it clung to the pine trees making them appear like the trees I use in my annual Snow Village display.
-- Bob Doan, Writing from Anchorage, AK
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Richard III - Rediscovered
I have been fascinated with the discovery of the bones of the English King Richard III from the 1400's.
Bones of the King who died in 1485, before Columbus discovered America, have been resting safely beneath a parking lot north of London. Which is why the probably still survive.
The Washington Post article discusses the possible impacts of this discovery of the remains of the final monarch of the House of Planetagenet whose death ushered in the Tudors as monarchs of England.
That I am so fascinated with this relic of history is not amazing. But that I am so intrigued by a king of England who was a tyrant and a warrior and depicted by Shakespeare as an evil, deformed, child murdering monster is a bit disturbing. I am looking forward to a future History Channel program about the search and subsequent discovery of the bones.
The curved spine makes me cringe in pain every time I think about it--yet he was a King.
I think back to life during the 1400's when the world was clearly flat and survival was a daily battle for most people. What a time. And why was he buried 90 miles north of London? I can scarcely imagine life during those times of upheaval.
And like all despots and evil leaders--he died. Now his bones have been found and the stories can be confirmed or refuted. It reminds me of being in 11th grade history class and having to memorize all of the Kings and Queens of England--for no apparently good reason.
How cool is it that science can confirm that these are the bones of that man. Wow!
-- Bob Doan, writing from Anchorage, AK
 |
| Bones of Richard III |
Bones of the King who died in 1485, before Columbus discovered America, have been resting safely beneath a parking lot north of London. Which is why the probably still survive.
The Washington Post article discusses the possible impacts of this discovery of the remains of the final monarch of the House of Planetagenet whose death ushered in the Tudors as monarchs of England.
That I am so fascinated with this relic of history is not amazing. But that I am so intrigued by a king of England who was a tyrant and a warrior and depicted by Shakespeare as an evil, deformed, child murdering monster is a bit disturbing. I am looking forward to a future History Channel program about the search and subsequent discovery of the bones.
The curved spine makes me cringe in pain every time I think about it--yet he was a King.
I think back to life during the 1400's when the world was clearly flat and survival was a daily battle for most people. What a time. And why was he buried 90 miles north of London? I can scarcely imagine life during those times of upheaval.
And like all despots and evil leaders--he died. Now his bones have been found and the stories can be confirmed or refuted. It reminds me of being in 11th grade history class and having to memorize all of the Kings and Queens of England--for no apparently good reason.
How cool is it that science can confirm that these are the bones of that man. Wow!
-- Bob Doan, writing from Anchorage, AK
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Out the Hotel Window - Anchorage
Well, it is not much to see, yet, given the early hour. I admit though, it was warmer in Anchorage than it was yesterday in Baltimore and about 15 degrees warmer than Minneapolis.
It is still below freezing though, making it about 45 degrees to cold for my preference.
As it has been dark the entire time I've been here, I really do not have a good sense of the landscape. Sunrise is not until 9:08 this morning. So it will be much later in the day before I can really take in the landscape. I'm not changing the clock on my computer, so this post will show Eastern Time--subtract 4 hours to find the real time of my post (about 6AM).
The trip was long, but thankfully uneventful. I was lucky to have one of the two or three empty center seats next to me, so at least I did not get that sardine in a can feeling for the nearly six hour flight from Minneapolis to Anchorage.
What excitement awaits me in Anchorage? Time will tell. It has been cold though, the streets are snow covered.
In other news, the on/off switch on my bluetooth ear piece broke yesterday--so I have some shopping to do later today. Oh boy, new electronics!
I have enjoyed watching the continuing coverage of the Ravens Super Bowl victory. There are some strange stories coming out of New Orleans, but I wish that I were in Baltimore for the victory parade today. When the Orioles win the World Series later this year, I will not miss the victory parade!
-- Bob Doan, writing from Anchorage, AK
 |
| Anchorage, 5 Feb 2013 |
It is still below freezing though, making it about 45 degrees to cold for my preference.
As it has been dark the entire time I've been here, I really do not have a good sense of the landscape. Sunrise is not until 9:08 this morning. So it will be much later in the day before I can really take in the landscape. I'm not changing the clock on my computer, so this post will show Eastern Time--subtract 4 hours to find the real time of my post (about 6AM).
The trip was long, but thankfully uneventful. I was lucky to have one of the two or three empty center seats next to me, so at least I did not get that sardine in a can feeling for the nearly six hour flight from Minneapolis to Anchorage.
What excitement awaits me in Anchorage? Time will tell. It has been cold though, the streets are snow covered.
In other news, the on/off switch on my bluetooth ear piece broke yesterday--so I have some shopping to do later today. Oh boy, new electronics!
I have enjoyed watching the continuing coverage of the Ravens Super Bowl victory. There are some strange stories coming out of New Orleans, but I wish that I were in Baltimore for the victory parade today. When the Orioles win the World Series later this year, I will not miss the victory parade!
-- Bob Doan, writing from Anchorage, AK
Monday, February 4, 2013
Monday Musings - February 4, 2013
1. A football team from a working person's city, much to the chagrin of the NFL and all of the pundits, won one of the most exciting , nail-biting Super Bowl's that I have ever watched. The Ravens completed a dream season and played an exciting, sometimes ugly game in wining the Lombardi Trophy. Go Ravens!!
2. CBS's contract with the NFL should be immediately terminated until they get announcers who actually understand the game.
3. My vote for the best Super Bowl commercial goes to the Jeep ad. Second place goes to the Budweiser Clydesdale ad.
4. Wine tasting is the best way to spend an afternoon. Getting really into each wine and understanding the region and the grape to appreciate the color, the taste, the aromas, and the finish makes enjoying wine so much more than just drinking.
5. Super Bowls make for late nights. I didn't get to bed until almost midnight. And then I was up before 5 to play racquetball.
6. The power outage during the game is one of the most unique things that has ever happened during a Super Bowl. It changed the game significantly.
7. What else is there to talk about the day after your home city wins the Super Bowl? Well, the Orioles winning the World Series of course!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
2. CBS's contract with the NFL should be immediately terminated until they get announcers who actually understand the game.
3. My vote for the best Super Bowl commercial goes to the Jeep ad. Second place goes to the Budweiser Clydesdale ad.
4. Wine tasting is the best way to spend an afternoon. Getting really into each wine and understanding the region and the grape to appreciate the color, the taste, the aromas, and the finish makes enjoying wine so much more than just drinking.
5. Super Bowls make for late nights. I didn't get to bed until almost midnight. And then I was up before 5 to play racquetball.
6. The power outage during the game is one of the most unique things that has ever happened during a Super Bowl. It changed the game significantly.
7. What else is there to talk about the day after your home city wins the Super Bowl? Well, the Orioles winning the World Series of course!
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Game Day - Super Bowl
One game--winner takes all and the loser is all but forgotten. I hardly remember the loser of last year's game--oh wait, it was the Patriots!
The culmination of a season of hard work comes down to one game played on a huge stage where every defect and strength is on display.
It is a game larger than life and larger than the sport, it seems. Even the halftime show is beyond belief. It is the only game all season where the television fans at home get to see the halftime show because it truly is a spectacle.
The price for tickets is out of sight for the normal fan. This morning, I checked one site and the lowest ticket was $1194. Really? For a football game? And one that isn't usually up to the hype?
Yet I know people who are there. My neighbors, for instance.
I will watch the game--and as one might suspect I am all in for the Ravens, as I have been all season. I believe that although they may not be the better team on paper or in the computers, they have the intangibles! It is Ray Lewis' last ride. I suspect there will be a lot of purple in church this morning.
But this is the day we have been waiting for since before the season began, so I need to enjoy it. 32 teams began the season with their sights set upon being in today's game--only two are left. At the end of the day, there will be a champion and an also ran.
As the Ravens fight song goes:
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
The culmination of a season of hard work comes down to one game played on a huge stage where every defect and strength is on display.
It is a game larger than life and larger than the sport, it seems. Even the halftime show is beyond belief. It is the only game all season where the television fans at home get to see the halftime show because it truly is a spectacle.
The price for tickets is out of sight for the normal fan. This morning, I checked one site and the lowest ticket was $1194. Really? For a football game? And one that isn't usually up to the hype?
Yet I know people who are there. My neighbors, for instance.
I will watch the game--and as one might suspect I am all in for the Ravens, as I have been all season. I believe that although they may not be the better team on paper or in the computers, they have the intangibles! It is Ray Lewis' last ride. I suspect there will be a lot of purple in church this morning.
But this is the day we have been waiting for since before the season began, so I need to enjoy it. 32 teams began the season with their sights set upon being in today's game--only two are left. At the end of the day, there will be a champion and an also ran.
As the Ravens fight song goes:
Fight! Fight! Fight!
Ravens dark wings take to flight
Dive in and show them your might
For Baltimore and Maryland
You will fly on to victory
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Imaginary Controversy
I watched a news report a few minutes ago about how a famous youthful star had signed a major contract with a diet drink maker. Read about it in the Huffington Post article. Seemed cool to me.
Then the twist.
The protectors of society, my name not theirs, have arrived on the scene to create controversy where there should be none denouncing the endorsement deal as irresponsible because of all of the bad health consequences associated with soft drinks--especially sweetened ones.
Listening to the news report on the small minority of people who are on the front lines of this issue, I fear we are headed for a new prohibition era against soft drinks--which is really strange, where did I leave my glass of wine?
But really? It is a diet drink! People drink soda, just like people still smoke, drink alcohol, and heaven-forbid use gasoline to power automobiles.
I am more and more concerned that our society is becoming dominated by special interests which seek to impose their radical minority opinion upon the larger part of society often at the expense of reason and rational thought.
Outlawing soft drinks--or large soft drinks as some cities have done or attempted, seems to be an abuse of power. Where do these abuses stop? We already have more laws and ordnances than I can even begin to comprehend.
Condemning a star for inking a multi-million dollar deal to support a product which is legal and enjoyed by millions around the world seems extreme.
We need to let parents parent, and we need to let adults suffer natural consequences of their actions.
Let's stop creating controversy where there should be none and learn to live and respect others.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Then the twist.
The protectors of society, my name not theirs, have arrived on the scene to create controversy where there should be none denouncing the endorsement deal as irresponsible because of all of the bad health consequences associated with soft drinks--especially sweetened ones.
Listening to the news report on the small minority of people who are on the front lines of this issue, I fear we are headed for a new prohibition era against soft drinks--which is really strange, where did I leave my glass of wine?
But really? It is a diet drink! People drink soda, just like people still smoke, drink alcohol, and heaven-forbid use gasoline to power automobiles.
I am more and more concerned that our society is becoming dominated by special interests which seek to impose their radical minority opinion upon the larger part of society often at the expense of reason and rational thought.
Outlawing soft drinks--or large soft drinks as some cities have done or attempted, seems to be an abuse of power. Where do these abuses stop? We already have more laws and ordnances than I can even begin to comprehend.
Condemning a star for inking a multi-million dollar deal to support a product which is legal and enjoyed by millions around the world seems extreme.
We need to let parents parent, and we need to let adults suffer natural consequences of their actions.
Let's stop creating controversy where there should be none and learn to live and respect others.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Friday, February 1, 2013
The Corner of my Toast
I was sitting here, reading the morning news coming across the computer screen and mindlessly eating when I realized that two very deep, brown eyes were watching my moves closely as I came to the last corner of my breakfast toast.
The last corner--of course, I do not own the last corner of my toast. No, it is Makayla's, and she knows it.
It has become a morning ritual that I rarely notice, except when I am traveling or she is having an overnight in preparation for a trip upon which I have an early departure.
She is patient. She sits there until the last corner is clearly available. And then, she inches closer. Sometimes she puts her nose on my leg to remind me that her piece of toast is nearly ready.
I have to be careful with the jam though--too much and she gets is in her fur--and that causes other issues.
When I am ready to share, she is so gentle about taking the corner of the toast from my hand. I have had other dogs who gulp the piece down without even really enjoying it, but Makayla seems to know that this special shared breakfast is a morsel to be savored and enjoyed.
I think I enjoy giving it to her more than she enjoys eating it, but it does cement that special bond between us.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge. MD
 |
| Makayla at Breakfast |
The last corner--of course, I do not own the last corner of my toast. No, it is Makayla's, and she knows it.
It has become a morning ritual that I rarely notice, except when I am traveling or she is having an overnight in preparation for a trip upon which I have an early departure.
She is patient. She sits there until the last corner is clearly available. And then, she inches closer. Sometimes she puts her nose on my leg to remind me that her piece of toast is nearly ready.
I have to be careful with the jam though--too much and she gets is in her fur--and that causes other issues.
When I am ready to share, she is so gentle about taking the corner of the toast from my hand. I have had other dogs who gulp the piece down without even really enjoying it, but Makayla seems to know that this special shared breakfast is a morsel to be savored and enjoyed.
I think I enjoy giving it to her more than she enjoys eating it, but it does cement that special bond between us.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge. MD
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Awake Before the Day
It happened again.
I was awake, but the clock indicated that I still had time to sleep.
I wanted to sleep--but I could not. My mind was on. Preparing for the day ahead.
Guilt. I will be tired tonight before my usual time. I will probably fall asleep in the chair watching some mindless offering on TV, or worse, during the commercial of the mindless offering.
TV is a sleeping pill for me, it seems. When I travel, I turn the TV on to put me to sleep in the bed that is not my own, on the pillow I just met moments before, in a room that I just walked into, in a city away from home. The only familiar thing are the mindless programs on the television.
But this morning I paused. Listening to the sounds of the sleeping house. Feeling the cat under the covers with his back against mine sharing my warmth. The even breathing of Chris next to me was reassuring. Yet, I grew more frustrated and awake because the clock continued to tell my that I had 20 minutes more of sleep.
Failing sleep, I got up and started the day.
I wonder how it will go.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
I was awake, but the clock indicated that I still had time to sleep.
I wanted to sleep--but I could not. My mind was on. Preparing for the day ahead.
Guilt. I will be tired tonight before my usual time. I will probably fall asleep in the chair watching some mindless offering on TV, or worse, during the commercial of the mindless offering.
TV is a sleeping pill for me, it seems. When I travel, I turn the TV on to put me to sleep in the bed that is not my own, on the pillow I just met moments before, in a room that I just walked into, in a city away from home. The only familiar thing are the mindless programs on the television.
But this morning I paused. Listening to the sounds of the sleeping house. Feeling the cat under the covers with his back against mine sharing my warmth. The even breathing of Chris next to me was reassuring. Yet, I grew more frustrated and awake because the clock continued to tell my that I had 20 minutes more of sleep.
Failing sleep, I got up and started the day.
I wonder how it will go.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Mid-Winter Respite
The temperature achieved 60-something yesterday breaking a two week long cold snap.
It was actually nice to walk outside and believe that springtime is as close as the daffodils that are poking through the ground.
The warmer temperatures reminded me that we do not have to continue suffering through the incredible cold, but there are places where it is warmer.
I want to more there.
I thought about putting the top down on Cat and driving around, but, alas, as I am recovering from a nasty cough that probably wouldn't have been the best idea of the day. And, it was only 63 or so degrees. Cat has a heater, though, I probably would have been warm. It is hard to believe that I have had Cat for three years.
Warmer days after a cold snap make me begin to think of the coming warmth. Springtime and pool opening.
With today's forecast of 66 degrees and rain, can springtime be far off?
Tomorrow though, it is back into the 40's.
I will enjoy today--even the rain because it is warm and not snowing.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
It was actually nice to walk outside and believe that springtime is as close as the daffodils that are poking through the ground.
The warmer temperatures reminded me that we do not have to continue suffering through the incredible cold, but there are places where it is warmer.
I want to more there.
I thought about putting the top down on Cat and driving around, but, alas, as I am recovering from a nasty cough that probably wouldn't have been the best idea of the day. And, it was only 63 or so degrees. Cat has a heater, though, I probably would have been warm. It is hard to believe that I have had Cat for three years.
Warmer days after a cold snap make me begin to think of the coming warmth. Springtime and pool opening.
With today's forecast of 66 degrees and rain, can springtime be far off?
Tomorrow though, it is back into the 40's.
I will enjoy today--even the rain because it is warm and not snowing.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Blending a Winning Wine
One of the events that Chris and I look forward to participating in every year is the Consensus Blending sponsored by Keswick Vineyards in Virginia. This past weekend marked the fourth time that we have made the trek to the vineyard to participate.
The task is to create the best tasting wine from the young wines that the winemaker provides as raw material. The event was held over three weekends this year allowing for about 360 members of the wine club to participate. Divided into teams of six people each, which allows for about ten teams on each day of the weekend, the teams come up with their best wine and enter it into the judging to become the Consensus Wine which will be produced, bottled, and sold by the winery.
We went to the winery with a complete team, ready for the blending. Chris and I, and Mark and Peggy are veterans, while George and Sue were the rookies. But, we have gone in previous years on our own and just joined a table when we arrived. It is a pretty laid back start to the day.
This year, Stephen, the winemaker at Keswick, provided two different cabernet sauvignons, a norton, and a syrah as the raw material for blending. Seated in the always too cold barrel room and after a few opening remarks, the blending begins. Stephen says that we are doing in two hours wine blending that takes him six months.
But it is not just blindly blending wine. Or drinking wine for that matter. Each of the prospective wines in the blend must be evaluated for their strengths and weaknesses. Then the team decides upon a strategy to put the wines together to create a complete blends that had a nice aroma, good color, and a full flavor in the mouth. The hazards are many. Out table, for instance, appreciated wine that is dryer, while the most salable wines in America are fruitier and not as dry. The winners will create a wine that others will like and buy not necessarily one that we will like or buy.
Through seven different blends of the wines, we collectively decided upon the blend that we thought was the best of the wines provided. It, coincidently, was the third blend we created, but we had been unable to improve it through subsequent iterations.
Once all of the tables blend and submit their entrants, there is a break for lunch after which the judging begins. Each wine is judged by every table. A couple of ringers are added for control purposes and although there were only 8 tables on Sunday, we judged eleven wines--three of them were the same. It provided insight into how tough it really is to judge wine.
Did we win the day? No. We were a very close third--only four one hundredths of a point out of second place. The wine that won the day then entered the next stage of the competition against the other five day winning wines to become the 2012 Keswick Consensus Blend based upon average score.
In the end the real winner was everyone who participated. The wine craft learning and insight that I get every year is more that worth the trip. But more than that, it is just fun to be in the barrel room with the winemaker talking wine and blending and getting insight into how award winning wines are produced.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
 |
| Keswick Barrel Room Ready for Consensus Blending |
The task is to create the best tasting wine from the young wines that the winemaker provides as raw material. The event was held over three weekends this year allowing for about 360 members of the wine club to participate. Divided into teams of six people each, which allows for about ten teams on each day of the weekend, the teams come up with their best wine and enter it into the judging to become the Consensus Wine which will be produced, bottled, and sold by the winery.
 |
| Chris, Sue, George, Peggy, and Mark The Team |
We went to the winery with a complete team, ready for the blending. Chris and I, and Mark and Peggy are veterans, while George and Sue were the rookies. But, we have gone in previous years on our own and just joined a table when we arrived. It is a pretty laid back start to the day.
This year, Stephen, the winemaker at Keswick, provided two different cabernet sauvignons, a norton, and a syrah as the raw material for blending. Seated in the always too cold barrel room and after a few opening remarks, the blending begins. Stephen says that we are doing in two hours wine blending that takes him six months.
But it is not just blindly blending wine. Or drinking wine for that matter. Each of the prospective wines in the blend must be evaluated for their strengths and weaknesses. Then the team decides upon a strategy to put the wines together to create a complete blends that had a nice aroma, good color, and a full flavor in the mouth. The hazards are many. Out table, for instance, appreciated wine that is dryer, while the most salable wines in America are fruitier and not as dry. The winners will create a wine that others will like and buy not necessarily one that we will like or buy.
Through seven different blends of the wines, we collectively decided upon the blend that we thought was the best of the wines provided. It, coincidently, was the third blend we created, but we had been unable to improve it through subsequent iterations.
Once all of the tables blend and submit their entrants, there is a break for lunch after which the judging begins. Each wine is judged by every table. A couple of ringers are added for control purposes and although there were only 8 tables on Sunday, we judged eleven wines--three of them were the same. It provided insight into how tough it really is to judge wine.
Did we win the day? No. We were a very close third--only four one hundredths of a point out of second place. The wine that won the day then entered the next stage of the competition against the other five day winning wines to become the 2012 Keswick Consensus Blend based upon average score.
In the end the real winner was everyone who participated. The wine craft learning and insight that I get every year is more that worth the trip. But more than that, it is just fun to be in the barrel room with the winemaker talking wine and blending and getting insight into how award winning wines are produced.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Monday, January 28, 2013
Monday Musings - January 28, 2013
1. A measly half of a point separated the team I was on for the 2012 Consensus Blending at Keswick from the first place team. We finished four one hundredths of a point out of second.
2. Looking at a pastoral setting of fields, mountains, a dark sky and cows the remark was made that the cows were peppered across the landscape. Really? Peppered? Nice thought thought--on a plate.
3. The weekend was bookended by bad weather--off early Friday and in late Monday. I still prefer summer though.
4. It is amazing how different the same wine tastes during a blind tasting when it is inserted in three different places. I scored it differently every time.
5. A classic movie: Dr Strangelove premiered on this date in 1964.
6. I have determined that an ice storm serves no useful purpose. Well, maybe it is a good way to prune the weak branches off trees.
7. While enjoying some good Virginia wines this weekend I was struck by how empty the vineyards are after the vines have been trimmed and while they are waiting for the warmth of spring to get them growing again.
8. It is always reassuring when Makayla is excited about seeing me after I have been gone for the weekend.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
2. Looking at a pastoral setting of fields, mountains, a dark sky and cows the remark was made that the cows were peppered across the landscape. Really? Peppered? Nice thought thought--on a plate.
3. The weekend was bookended by bad weather--off early Friday and in late Monday. I still prefer summer though.
4. It is amazing how different the same wine tastes during a blind tasting when it is inserted in three different places. I scored it differently every time.
5. A classic movie: Dr Strangelove premiered on this date in 1964.
6. I have determined that an ice storm serves no useful purpose. Well, maybe it is a good way to prune the weak branches off trees.
7. While enjoying some good Virginia wines this weekend I was struck by how empty the vineyards are after the vines have been trimmed and while they are waiting for the warmth of spring to get them growing again.
8. It is always reassuring when Makayla is excited about seeing me after I have been gone for the weekend.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Sunday, January 27, 2013
So Many Vineyards
Awesome Saturday in Charlottesville. What more needs to be written?
The plan was to visit four or maybe five vineyards for a mid-winter respite.
We actually visited six and passed a seventh without stopping.
The day was beautiful and warmer--still not above freezing for most of the day, but warmer without the biting wind.
The vineyards?
King Family - I highly recommend a visit
White Hall - I highly recommend
Stinson - Limited selection but a nice in between stop
Veritas - Great tasting room, but I didn't really think the wines were drinking that well
Flying Fox - Nice stop--especially for reds. This was a a first time visit for me.
Trump - This was my first visit. The sparkling wines are good, the non-sparkling wines are average at best.
Today we are off to Keswick for the Consensus Blending to see if we can create a winning wine.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
The plan was to visit four or maybe five vineyards for a mid-winter respite.
We actually visited six and passed a seventh without stopping.
The day was beautiful and warmer--still not above freezing for most of the day, but warmer without the biting wind.
The vineyards?
King Family - I highly recommend a visit
White Hall - I highly recommend
Stinson - Limited selection but a nice in between stop
Veritas - Great tasting room, but I didn't really think the wines were drinking that well
Flying Fox - Nice stop--especially for reds. This was a a first time visit for me.
Trump - This was my first visit. The sparkling wines are good, the non-sparkling wines are average at best.
Today we are off to Keswick for the Consensus Blending to see if we can create a winning wine.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
So Many Vineyards
Awesome Saturday in Charlottesville. What more needs to be written?
The plan was to visit four or maybe five vineyards for a mid-winter respite.
We actually visited six and passed a seventh without stopping.
The day was beautiful and warmer--still not above freezing for most of the day, but warmer without the biting wind.
The vineyards?
King Family - I highly recommend a visit
White Hall - I highly recommend
Stinson - Limited selection but a nice in between stop
Veritas - Great tasting room, but I didn't really think the wines were drinking that well
Flying Fox - Nice stop--especially for reds. This was a a first time visit for me.
Trump - This was my first visit. The sparkling wines are good, the non-sparkling wines are average at best.
Today we are off to Keswick for the Consensus Blending to see if we can create a winning wine.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
The plan was to visit four or maybe five vineyards for a mid-winter respite.
We actually visited six and passed a seventh without stopping.
The day was beautiful and warmer--still not above freezing for most of the day, but warmer without the biting wind.
The vineyards?
King Family - I highly recommend a visit
White Hall - I highly recommend
Stinson - Limited selection but a nice in between stop
Veritas - Great tasting room, but I didn't really think the wines were drinking that well
Flying Fox - Nice stop--especially for reds. This was a a first time visit for me.
Trump - This was my first visit. The sparkling wines are good, the non-sparkling wines are average at best.
Today we are off to Keswick for the Consensus Blending to see if we can create a winning wine.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Long Awaited Weekend
Four day weeks--meaning, weeks which contain a holiday, often seem harder than the regular five-day work week. It is simple, really. Five days of activity is crammed into 20 percent less work hours. So, by the end of a four-day week, I am five-day exhausted.
And the weekend is here.
Finally.
This weekend, Charlottesville is in the plan and an attempt to recapture past glory as the Consensus Wine Blenders for Keswick Vineyards.
A great diversion and some real fun learning more about wine and blending and grapes and agriculture.
I think it is a great mid-winter diversion. Drinking and blending wine which is the product of the non-winter seasons.
It couldn't come at a better time--in between the NFL playoffs and the Super Bowl. I will miss nothing important--well the Pro Bowl gathering in Hawaii. Another placeI long to be during this spate of cold and snowy weather.
At least---it is the weekend.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
And the weekend is here.
Finally.
This weekend, Charlottesville is in the plan and an attempt to recapture past glory as the Consensus Wine Blenders for Keswick Vineyards.
A great diversion and some real fun learning more about wine and blending and grapes and agriculture.
I think it is a great mid-winter diversion. Drinking and blending wine which is the product of the non-winter seasons.
It couldn't come at a better time--in between the NFL playoffs and the Super Bowl. I will miss nothing important--well the Pro Bowl gathering in Hawaii. Another placeI long to be during this spate of cold and snowy weather.
At least---it is the weekend.
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD
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