Reflections of the Frederick Running Festival 2013

Frederick Starting Line at 0700

Sunday, I enjoyed an early morning run, vicariously, through the efforts of Mike and Jeremy as they ran the Frederick Half Marathon as part of the Frederick Running Festival.

It was a beautiful March morning, oh yes it was really May morning. So in terms of beauty it was definitely a nice day, but cold! But, it was clear. We met at the house at 0515--yup, 0515 on a Sunday morning to drive off to Frederick, which is about 40 or so minutes away.

Walking from Parking to the Start Line in the Early Morning

The drive was easy, because there are only a few crazy's on the roads at that hour.

Arriving in Frederick, though, it was clear that this was the big event. Traffic backed out onto Route 70 and we worried that perhaps we had not allotted enough time for parking and getting to the starting line. But, the plan was well thought out and once we made it into the town we parked easily and walked the half-mile or so to the Festival.

Jeremy and Mike before the Half Marathon

I was intrigued that we walked past a working horse barn on our way to the starting line. I don't know why, but maybe there is still some farmer deep in my veins.

Being an amateur photographer, I enjoyed the lighting conditions during the just after dawn period before the race began. The hot air balloon which took off was great fun to watch rising into the morning sky. I could not get free form the lines and my other best shot included a row of port-a-potties, which just don't work in a picture.

We walked to the starting line with 4,000 of our new, best friends. Runners are truly like a close fraternity. Everyone had their places for the start, and despite the campy and too loud music being blared over the speakers, it was fun. After the National Anthem and then a rendition of Neil Diamond's Sweet Caroline to be in solidarity with Boston after the bombing, it was time for the start.

Mike and Jeremy in the final 100 yards

Once the race started, I had two hours of alone time. And it was really alone. The place became a ghost town. My only negative for the whole day is the lack of spectator support during the period from the start until about an hour and a half later as the runners began crossing the finish line. There was no where to even get a cup of coffee!

Thankfully, although it was cold, it was a beautiful morning and I enjoyed watching the dawn and also watching the Frederick Fair Race Track Infield come alive in advance of the runner's return.

I was able to track Jeremy and Mike via a runners tracking system provided by the race organizers, but even better through the Friends feature on my iPhone. I knew they were planning on finishing in about two hours and so they did. 1 hour 59 minutes and 2 seconds for a 9m6s pace over 13.1 miles!

Mike and Jeremy Closing in on the Finish

Awesome job!

I, luckily, spotted them as the ran towards the finish line. I was awed that after 13 plus miles they still ran together and looked as if they could run on for more miles.

Good training! I admit, I am not a runner. I can't get my head into it, but seeing them finish together made me very happy for both of them.

Sadly, while the iPhone is an adequate camera, it has some flaws and so I missed them actually crossing the finish line. Jeremy says they sprinted and I think that messed up my timing.

Nonetheless, they finished the race. We met up and enjoyed some of the celebration in the infield area before heading home. We arrived home about 10:30 and still had the rest of the day.

It was a great morning and I was proud of both of them. They set a goal and achieved it!

I also enjoyed the Frederick Running Festival.

Great morning. Great time. Do it again?

Sure.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Monday Musings - May 6, 2013

1. A dual holiday weekend has passed into the history books: May the 4th Be With You (Saturday, get it?) was the first and Cinco de Mayo (Sunday) was the second holiday celebrated..

2. Sunday was a crazy day--I was in Frederick for the Running Festival by 6:20 AM, working on the pool by noon, in a theater watching Iron Man 3 by 2:30 and then off to Wegman's for groceries.

3. Now that the pool is open, when can I go swimming.

4. The weather for the week ahead looks to be cold and rainy, again!

5. The weekend was good for my sports teams: The Orioles win two and the Pens win one. The Orioles finished an 11 game road trip  with 7 wins against 4 losses!

6. I am in sports purgatory today--none of my teams is playing.

7. On this date in 1626, what is Manhattan Island was bought by the Dutch from the Indians for a few trinkets. What a difference 400 years makes.

8. This summer promises to be a big movie summer. There are too many movies coming out to be able to see them and still enjoy summer.

9. I took Cat, my car, in for an oil change the other day and they asked me if I was getting any streaking from the windshield wipers when it rains. I told them, I don't know, I don't drive it in the rain. They decided the windshield wipers were fine.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Just Add Summer

Yesterday's pool opening was a success--the pool is open, although not yet swimmable. I expect the pool to be balances, clear, and ready for swimming in a couple of days.

The only thing missing is summer. Or at least temperatures in the 80's.

I proved that I still have it--able to push 80 or so pounds of pool cover over my head, up a rickety attic ladder system and into the storage area in above the pool house.  For the last time! Next year I am going to rig a pulley system. I nearly fell off the ladder twice, drew blood on my shin, and had there been an OSHA inspector in the vicinity, I would have been shut down.

It is good to have the back yard view of water in anticipation of fun rather than the pool cover which signals that the fun has expired.

It was a good day to do this activity--just warm enough to wear shorts and get a sunburn, but not so hot that I was sweating.

Still--after opening the pool part of me wants to jump in the 50 something degree water.

Time is coming--all we need is sun, summer, and high temperatures.

Bring it on!

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Pool Opening Saturday

It has finally arrived. The day which officially marks the beginning of the summer side of springtime--pool opening Saturday.

By the end of the day the cover will be off and the pool will be open, although not swimmable.

Already, beneath the cover which shimmers in the morning light casting across it, the pump has been reconnected and water is already circulating to begin bringing the chemical mix up to the proper balance. What really remains is the hard part--removing and storing the cover and cleaning the pool of the debris accumulated in the seven months since the pool was last used.

The chemicals are in place and ready--the call of summer is present with me. Just a few more hours of work. I'm glad I got the piping and pump reconnected yesterday--that will make today a bit easier.

All we need now are warmer temperatures--bring on the sunshine!

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

And Coming to the Plate is . . .

Jackson Hamming for the Camera

T-ball is a fascinating variation of baseball. The object of the game is to teach youngsters the rules of the game and to hook them on the excitement of watching their heroes play--which is a bit easier when living in a town which actually has a major league baseball team like Baltimore does.

Jackson gets a Hit

Wearing the gear, stepping to the plate, making the run to first--I remember all of those things, mostly fondly. I admit, though, that I had forgotten how much progress the players make from day to day. Out team has transitioned from hitting only off the "T" into hitting pitched tossed by the coach.

Last evening was our first game where they hit pitches coming from the coach. And they did great. Every one of them had at least two innings where they made it to base by hitting from the coach and not off the T.

But the game went long! An hour and a half.

But the thrill when they hit a fair ball was evident in all of them. Problem was, they wanted to stand at the plate and watch it.

Not the approved approach to the game, but given the raggedy fielding it really didn't matter. Although, our team made three outs during one inning! All of them unassisted to our first baseman!

Ah, but what a hit it was! I can almost imagine some Orioles of old admiring their game winning shot in the bottom of the ninth!

Baseball! I am reminded of a statement that Yogi Berra made about Little League baseball, and while this isn't Little League, you'll get the idea:

Little League baseball is a very good thing because it keeps the parents off the streets.

And in my case, grandparents, too.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Hockey, Playoffs, and the Next Season

The hockey season that almost wasn't has transitioned into its second half--the playoffs. Believe it or not, after 48 regular season games we now get to work through two months of playoffs until Lord Stanley's Cup is finally hoisted by the winners of it all.

Yes, I am a Pittsburgh Penguins fan. I have been for a very long time. I am hopeful that I will get the chance to attend a Washington Capitals game late in the playoffs if the Pens survive.

Last evening was the Pens first playoff game and the started off with a 5-0 win. It is a sure sign that Spring is here when the NHL gets into the playoffs.

I was asked recently, why I don't follow the local hockey team.  That was an easy answer--Baltimore does not have a hockey team. If Baltimore had a hockey team, I probably would eventually become a fan as I would attend games and it is easier to root for the home team than constantly against them. Although, I have no problems rooting against the Capitals when I go to those games, although, usually there are almost as many Penguins fans in attendance as Capitals fans.

Bring on the playoffs!

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Springtime and Gardens

Something there is that doesn't love a wall, 
That sends the frozen-ground-swell under it, 
And spills the upper boulders in the sun, 
And makes gaps even two can pass abreast. 
-- from Mending Wall by Robert Frost

In my case--it is water flowing off the driveway that doesn't like my lawn. During the past year in one area the grass has been washed away and a small ditch has been cut by the rushing water. 

What to do? Plant more grass, try to divert the water and hope for the best. Sadly, it is a very shady spot and growing grass is probably not an option.  The spot is along a fence next to the driveway and had always been a problem. So this year the answer is to plant a garden and provide a rocky channel to reduce the force of the run off and stem the erosion.

This garden is adorned with ugly utility boxes--just to add to the ambiance.  And shade--lot's of shade. Most plants being sold right now require 6 or more hours of full sun per day. This garden gets one or two.

I must be getting old. I am beginning to appreciate gardens more and more. It seems that the older people get the more they talk about and consider their gardens and dream of retirement. I'm not sure that gardens and retirement are in any way linked except interest in both increases as we get older.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Legends, Memories, and Life Well Lived

A month or so ago, I wrote in a blog titled Zillbilly Losing Battle to Cancer,  that the usher who had created a unique persona at Orioles games to entertain the fans, was afflicted with stage four lung cancer.

Charlie Zill, that man who served the fans as an usher at Orioles games for 17 years, died over the weekend as reported by the Baltimore Sun. I also received a personal note from a family member as a comment to my blog about Charlie to let me know the news.

I was honored to have witnessed Charlie's rendition of Zillbilly. If you remember, the Orioles suffered through some 14 losing seasons and so often, his antics during the seventh inning stretch were the only thing to enjoy during some of those long losses that mounted against the Orioles during those years.

I remember looking over to section 244 from wherever I was in the stadium to see Charlie bring Zillbilly to life. I always smiled at his enthusiasm and creativity.

I was fortunate to be at Charlie's last game last week when the Orioles honored him. I remembered that he had wanted to see one more game and I enjoyed the seventh inning during John Denver's Country Boy when he reprised Zillbilly for the last time. Many in the stadium did not fully understand the legend of the man being honored that evening--but I did. And I was happy for him to be able to attend one last Orioles game.

Charlie--thanks for the memories.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Monday Musings - April 29, 2013

1. April is almost over and springtime still is not assured.

2. Death and taxes are the only things we are assured of. Too bad we cannot reduce taxes.

3. Weather is changeable. The best weather forecast I've ever found is to look out the window to see what's happening outside.

4. When it rains it pours.

5. On this day in 1429, Joan of Arc lead Orleans of France to victory over the English.

6. Sunny days allow for more fun than rainy weather.

7. Wine is the elixir of life. Drink and be merry.

8. Baseball, lacrosse, and afternoons enjoying family. What could be better?

9. Sundays spent with family. That is what it is about, right?

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

"No New Taxes!" -- The dream and the reality

I remember those words uttered by then President George Bush (the first) which came back to haunt him when he actually had to raise taxes.

What I don't understand is that cry had changed for of our governmental bodies. Now I am hearing at every level of government our elected officials crying for "Let's find new taxes!".

Truly, I have heard about special taxes for certain sizes of soda, on square footage of billboards, and even now a new tax on rain, yes a Rain Tax--to name just a few. In addition to new taxes, I am being confronted with increased taxes on gasoline and even internet purchases and nearly every other of category in which I am taxed. Maryland already has a wine tax which is 3 percent higher than the sales tax.

Everywhere I look--taxes are increasing. And there are taxes on taxes, too.

What isn't increasing? My income.

At some point taxes are going to outstrip the ability to pay them. And the problem is that new taxes are everywhere and on everything.

The only good thing about new and increasing taxes?

I can't think of any thing good about increased taxes except they may be tax deductible--but by then the damage is done.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

It Will Be Better--I Promise

Geraniums out my Window on the Back Deck

Some promises seem empty.

Everyone who reads my blog knows how much I look forward to Springtime and rebirth and the world coming alive after the dark days of Winter.

And now, effectively, I am a prisoner I my house and cannot enjoy outdoors activities.

Why?

Allergies! I am in the middle of the worst allergy attack of my life. I am so miserable that I don't even want to be around myself let alone other people having to listen to me sneeze and cough, and sniffle. Yuck! To all of you who have put up with me thus far--I'm sorry. You have my admiration for not sending me off away from you.

My allergist promised this season would be better. It's not, it's the the worst. I'm totally demoralized. I have been getting shots at least weekly since June of last year.

We are going to have a short conversation during my newly scheduled Monday appointment--I'm going to say it's not working. I am miserable. I need the good stuff--if there is any good stuff? Claritin, Benadryl, and some nose spray are just not getting the job done.

Ugh!

Maybe it will rain and cleanse the air of all of the bad stuff.

But I like the sunshine!

I'm so conflicted right now. Looking out of my window, I want to be outside and not worry aobut the consequences.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Some of My Friends are Birds

I have to chuckle each time I see the Orioles Bird in some location not at the stadium. The other night, it was outside my favorite pre-game watering hole, Pickles, that I ran across my new best friend.

The Orioles Bird always seems to be smiling. When he is waving the Orioles flag at the games after a win, he seems to be more than happy--almost jubilant.

But he never speaks.

He wears his emotion on his sleeve.

His expressions are in his actions.

He is my favorite team mascot, well maybe I appreciate the Syracuse Orange a bit more. Nope--it is really the bird.

I enjoy watching him at the games as he incites the crowds to cheer and motivate the Orioles.

Some birds are just good, but

the Orioles Bird is the best!

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

As the Weeping Cherry Blooms

April 10, 2013 - The Buds Begin to Open

This springtime I documented the progression of Spring through the blossoming of the Weeping Cherry tree in my yard.

April 11, 2013 - Getting Fuller

As I reviewed the images, taken over a 12 day period, I noticed how not only did the blooms open on the tree, but how the leaves on the trees behind the Weeping Cherry began to fill in.

I guess the four images represent the 13 days of Weeping Cherry--or something corny like that.

April 13, 2013 - Full Bloom

It is fascinating to see the changes. I also noted how the lawn greened up during that two week period as well.

Springtime and rebirth are good for the soul. It reminds me that even though everything seems to be dead, life is contained within. 

The resurgence of the blooms and the green are a sign that the dark season is over.

I just wish the temperatures would start to climb, although yesterday it hit 77 degrees.

April 23, 2013 - Still Blooming but Fading Fast

Although the blossoms are fading fast, the tree is still a marvel to look at and admire. Why? Because I really have nothing to do with its beauty. God did that.

I just get to enjoy and appreciate it. 

Every day now for two weeks. And during the summer as I mow around the tree the image of its springtime beauty remains clear--until next year's image replaces it. Best yet, my Dad and Mom were here this year to enjoy the blossoming with me--and that is a memory I will never forget.

Maybe. despite Winter's best efforts Spring is really here.

What is next?

I only need to look and be ready to enjoy.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Springtime Fizzles

It has been unseasonably cold the past couple weeks. Spring's arrival was supposed to shake the world free from the grasp of Winter. It has not been a clean break. Blizzards and mounting snows in the mid section of the country continue on what seems like an almost daily basis. Cold temperatures continue to rock the East. Even freezing temperatures continue in my personal mecca of Florida.

I have attending baseball games wearing winter coats trying to stave off frostbite and it has been too cold to even drink beer. I think the vendors would do better offering hot chocolate and coffee as the walk through the crowd.

Summertime is on deck. Literally. The geraniums have been planted in the planers, the pool is calling to me that it is time to be open. I mowed the lawn for the first time last weekend. This is the first year I that I can recall not mowing at least once during March and then continuing weekly mowings through April. The pool deck area has been prepared for relaxation--if only the temperatures would cooperate.

I hear even the cicadas are on deck waiting for warmer weather to emerge. Although, the cold has kept the mosquitos in check--and that is a good thing.

So, in my estimation, Springtime has fizzled. I got excited yesterday morning when the pre-dawn temperature was 45 degrees. It was ten degrees warmer than the previous two days and 25 degrees colder than it should be, in my mind. This morning, however, ground was lost as the predawn temperature was only 41 degrees.

I am waiting for the warm-up to begin so that outdoor activities can get into full swing. Today's high is expected to be 75 degrees.

Waiting.

Still waiting.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Talking it Out

I had a talk with Makayla, my dog, last evening.

The house was quiet and I unloaded some of the cares of my day onto her. Why? Because she just loves being near me and I love looking into her big, brown eyes and seeing the trust and respect she has for me.

Confession is good for the soul. She never judges me--she just looks at me with anticipation and at just the right time, she licked my nose and made me laugh.

Of course the conversation was pretty one-sided. But, some conversations are meant to be one-sided. One party needs to talk and the other's job is to listen. She is a pretty good listener. Sometimes she even comes when I call for her.

Did I solve the great mysteries of the universe? No. Did I tease out some things which have been nagging at me? Yes.

Did she have to say a word?

Nope.

That's why dogs are man's best friend, they are short on words, long on comfort, and they are still there even after the cats have moved on to find a warmer spot in the bed.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Monday Musings - April 22, 2013

1. What a week. Form the Boston Marathon bombings to West, Texas fertilizer plant explain and difficult weather in the mid-west.

2. Chris and I have done a lot of plantings in the gardens. I hope we continue to dodge the freezing temperatures--even by a couple of degrees.

3. Sunday's are for family--and yesterday was especially a family day. Thanks to everyone.

4. I am still waiting for the summertime temperatures. It is very chilly. I have slipped pool opening day by a week to the first weekend in May as a result of the low temperatures.

5. Candles, dinner, a nice glass of wine coupled with good conversation as evening falls. What could be better?

6. Night falls quiet after a busy day. Monday calls to start another week. Oh, how I long for Saturday again.

7. Why do weeks always seem busier on Monday morning than they do on Friday afternoon?

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Baseball the Purest Form of Society

Yesterday reminded me of how baseball should can be representative of a perfect society. It had been many years since I coached youth baseball and T-ball, specifically, is where the emphasis is on developing skills, learning the game, and celebrating success--for both teams.

On a cold Saturday morning, the Tigers collected with hundreds of other children and adults to march through the neighborhood and open the springs sports season. During the parade I saw a lot of resemblance between our team and the Bad News Bears. It was funny (frustrating?) to watch 4-6 year olds try to carry a large banner along the parade route and stay in line and together. But we got them all to the parade's end without incident. Later, during the early evening was the opening day game for the Tigers.

The game was exciting and perfect because everyone cheered every good play--on both sides. The game was focused on helping the kids learn the game and have fun. I thought it was especially great when the other team made a good out at first--the only one of the day, and everyone cheered. It was a good play.

The only thing that would have made the game more perfect is if Jax could have been there rather than off to Texas for his uncle's wedding. But, I 'm sure he had a lot more fun in Texas--where everything is bigger.

In this iteration of T'Ball we do not keep score and I was asked by one of our players after the game-- "Who won?" I replied to him, "everyone did." It took his six-year mind only a few seconds to say: "So it was a tie?" Which made him happy.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Opening Day #3 - The Excitement Continues

Yes, it is opening day, again. April, it seems, is full of new beginnings and I am about to celebrate my third opening day of the young baseball season today.

Third?

Yup.

My first was when the Orioles opened the MLB season on April 2nd in Tampa.

My second was April 5th, when the Orioles opened the season at home in Orioles Park at Camden Yards.

My third is today, when the GORC Tigers, the T-ball Team for which I am an assistant coach open their season this afternoon. The day will be full of parades and fun and I even get to imitate the coach since he is out of town. I wonder if I can keep 10 rambunctious 4-6 year olds focused upon baseball for an hour? Time will tell.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

The Frustrating NFL--let it go!

It is still the first month of the major league baseball season and football will not go away. Even before the pennant races begin to take shape, I have to hear about the upcoming football season.

Do I really care, at this point, whether the Raven are the first Super Bowl winners to start the season on the road? No. It will be there when we get there. Football is not an everyday sport--it is an 18 week sprint that becomes all consuming. The schedule is out! There is a sense of drama for the thrill seekers in life.

If baseball players made the same money per game that league minimum rookie football players make, then the lowest paid baseball player would make $3.78 million! That is based upon the NFL leaguer rookie minimum of $420,000.

All this and football will not go away. Let baseball hold center stage fro a bit to enjoy some of the spotlight. I can actually afford to go to a few baseball games. One football game would cost more to attend than my season tickets to the Orioles!

I like football--but baseball is an everyday sport. Once a baseball game is over we spend a few hours analyzing it and then it is on to the next game. Football seemingly spends a week going over the game just played and then at the last minute turning attention to the game ahead.

There is a reason that Baseball is America's pastime!

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Fly Away Day

I love that I am an early riser and usually get to greet the morning before the dawn. I love watching the world wake.

There are advantages to being an early riser and among them is that when family has an early morning flight to some exotic destination, like Texas, I get asked to shuttle them to the airport. I love driving in the early morning, before the traffic becomes crazy. And we are lucky in that we all live fairly close to the airport--so it is only a 15 or so minute drive.

So thins morning, I got to see some of my family and give them a send off in front of the terminal. Part of me always wished that I were flying with them to enjoy the adventure--but I know that someone has to stay behind.

And even after driving to retrieve them, and to the airport--now I am home for a moment, before beginning the crazed activities that have become my daily routine.

And they--are preparing to fly off on adventure along with my thoughts and prayers for a safe and fun trip.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Along the Roadside

Sometimes, as I am driving along almost mindlessly controlling the car and dreaming about things that I want to do or reflecting upon things I should have done, I get shocked back to reality about the circle of life.

No, it wasn't a particularly gruesome accident, like the one I passed last night just a mile from home in the middle of US 1.

I like birds--most of them anyway. Some of them are appointed to do jobs in nature that I would rather not think about. That is the scene I happened upon while rounding a clover leaf coming off a busy highway. Two, large, they are all large it seems, turkey vultures were alongside the off ramp, on the blind part of the curve, feasting upon the remains of some poor creature that was not able to safely cross the road.

It is a part of nature. Something needs to be there to clean up the remains of the unlucky. But to see the birds so close to the car--and they were fairly uncaring about the traffic as they tended to their job, was a sight that I don't usually witness. I see them soaring on the breeze or hanging out in a tree, but rarely if ever see them doing their jobs.

Can I fault them for doing what they were created to do? No. At least they know their jobs and they do them. They have a purpose--and they do it. Their survival depends upon being the clean-up crew of nature. Perhaps, I imagine, they even embrace their jobs.

If only people were so lucky to know their purpose and embrace their calling, no matter how it might appear to others.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

After Tax Day Blues

Thankfully, it is over for another year. The season of taxes has come and passed. I did not have to file for an extension, although I know some people who did.

I don't like paying taxes--although as my civic duty I recognize that I must pay taxes and settle up with the governments by every April 15th.

But I am always struck by the inequity of taxes and tax season. I woke this morning and read an article published in the NY Times titled A Tax System Stacked Against the 99 Percent. I actually do not know anyone who is not in the 99 percent.

After reflecting upon the tax season I realized that tax refunds are a way that the governments (in this case the U.S. and Maryland) make paying taxes seem less painful, by collecting too much and then giving it back to the taxpayer like some great gift at the end of the tax year.

The real problem with our tax system is that corporations do not pay their fair share of taxes. According to the article, General Electric has become the symbol for multinational corporations that have their headquarters in the United States but pay almost no taxes — its effective corporate-tax rate averaged less than 2 percent from 2002 to 2012.  Think about it, if a company earning billions of dollars per year paid its fair share of taxes then personal income taxes might be reduced for all of us.

The article continues to postulate that if a majority of the people believe that the tax system is unfair, then our sense of national solidarity and cohesion will be harmed. It also postulates:

We could have a tax system that encourages good things like hard work and thrift and discourages bad things, like rent-seeking, gambling, financial speculation and pollution. Such a tax system could raise far more money than the current one — we wouldn’t have to go through all the wrangling we’ve been going through with sequestration, fiscal cliffs and threats to end Medicare and Social Security as we know it. We would be in sound fiscal position, for at least the next quarter-century.

I think I'd like to give it a try. Life during a sequestered government is bad and only getting worse.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Monday Musings - April 15, 2013

1. It is tax day. I finally got mine done! Yay. Nothing like waiting until almost the last minute. I'll try to do better next year.

2. What a fabulous weekend. Although I didn't travel anywhere, a lot of productive work was done around the house and in the gardens.

3. It seems that every springtime I appreciate all over again how the green almost overnight fills in the bare spaces on the trees.

4. Sitting on the deck, sipping wine, talking to Chris and Mom and Dad as evening falls with a
roaring fire in the fire pit. What could be better?

5. Here is an interesting fact: on this date in 1964 the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel opened.

6. Lacrosse is becoming a very popular sport in our family. Not only does Ethan play, but my nephew Jake plays as well. I may need to buy a stick and learn the rules.

7. It is mid-April already and springtime is just getting started. I am going to need to pack a lot into the next six months.

8. Today is the 101st anniversary of the wreck of the Titanic.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

After the Party is Over

Yesterday marked the end of the family birthday season which began during late-September. We celebrate 11 birthdays during the seven month run--not to mention many more extended family and friend birthdays.

Tail end charlie, as we refer to him, is Ethan. We try to make his season ending birthday special and yesterday was no exception.

The day began on the ball fields--I was being an assistant coach for Jax's t-ball team, while Ethan was off to a lacrosse game. I was able to watch the second half of E's lacrosse and was very impressed. His team was playing on the main stadium field at Cardinal Spaulding--a long was from the back dirt lots of last year. Sadly, his team squandered a four goal lead and wound up scoring late to secure a tie. But he played well getting a few good stick checks and catching a ball on an attack. He is actually the player in the center, in green, mostly shadowed by the player in white. The sun was washing out my viewfinder so I didn't get a great shot.

Then, after a short break, the party convened--also wrapped around sports. The theme was Washington Redskins football and the family played a football game in which the birthday boy scored the winning touchdown during overtime to secure the victory.

The party has lots of food and munchies and was punctuated at the end with the Orioles defeating the Yankees!

It was a great sports and party day.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Dreaming Saturday

I ran across this image--and it just made me stop.

Despite the weather being so much better lately, there is something about palm trees, beaches, and a clear moonlit sky that just appeals to the beach bum in me.

I wish that I had taken this image--not so much because it is a great image, but rather because I would have liked to be on that beach at that time and I am sure I would have a great memory or a great story to go with it.

As it is, though, I have a great story about this image based totally upon my imagination of how it would be, if . . .

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

And it is Back to Friday

Weeping Cherry on April 11, 2013

My life continues to scroll through the cycle of the week.

It is hard to believe that last Friday I was attending the Orioles home opening day to close out a week away from work--and this Friday I am back to the grind again of turning over the days to seemingly get to the weekend.

Somewhere in there I forgot to get my allergy shot. Not a good move considering that Spring has arrived in force.

I decided to document the springtime arrival in the blossoms on my weeping cherry tree. Even though my Dad took a better image during the day, in the sunlight, I wanted one taken about the same time of the day from the same location. It will remind me that even though, sometimes, each day seems to be a dreary repeat of the one before that there are differences that need to be identified and appreciated.

During the past week, I have been incredibly busy with family and baseball, and shopping--but at least last evening I was able to settle up with the taxman. While I was on the losing end again despite making significant changes last year, I feel a bit better because the difference was smaller. I was astounded, though, that while my income was less--my taxes were more. I don't like that direction too much. My assessment is that Maryland is becoming too expensive a place to live given the weather and service provided.

But, now it is Friday and the weekend is upon me. Busy--but more "me" time, hopefully.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Flowery Explosion

Weeping Cherry Tree, April 10, 2013

Everywhere it seems, springtime flowers are bursting forth as if they had been at the ready line waiting for the command to bloom. Even the weeping cherry tree in my yard has gone from nothing to bloom in less than four or so days. While not in full bloom, peak as they call it, the blossoms are clearly visible as the tree dons its springtime colors for our enjoyment.

I looked at pictures of the tree on April 8 2012 and noted that it was in full and even past peak bloom.

Soon, I expect the wooded area around my house to break into full leaf and we will become, at least for the spring and summer, a secluded lot in the middle of suburbia.

It is astounding to see the world spring to life in color and blossom. The trees and bushes in bloom look like vanilla ice cream cones along the side of the roadway.

I have been enjoying my rides to and from work and the other places I happen to visit just because each new turn brings more of the flowery explosion into view.

I enjoy stopping, even if only for a moment, just to take it all in and etch the beauty into my mind.

You're only here for a short visit. Don't hurry. Don't worry. And be sure to smell the flowers along the way. -- Walter Hagen
-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Enjoying the Falling of Night

Sitting outside last evening after dinner was a pleasure. It was the warmest day of the year, so far, and I watched the evening fall, heard the peepers singing, saw the bats begin their acrobatics, and enjoyed the stars popping out in the sky. I was attired in a t-shirt and shorts for the first time of the year enjoying the still near 80 degree temperatures.

I had missed these evenings during the cold and dark days of autumn and winter.

A nice glass of wine was the exclamation point on the evening as the after dinner discussion continued around the table--while the darkness continued to fall, but I was not cold.

It almost seems as if the region has skipped over springtime and gone straight into summer. I'm not complaining, but it is almost as if I can see the blossoms bursting as I sit in the chair on the deck.

The pools remains shuttered, but I am beginning to plot its return to daily operation. The grass has greened up and the bleeding hearts are beginning to grow in the gardens.

I can smell the Spring. I can hear the Spring.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Stars and Peepers

Imagine, for a moment, walking in 70 degree temperatures under a clear sky full of stars with a chorus of peepers filling the springtime air.

That was last evening. Perhaps the first best evening of the year.

Springtime is here and I can almost see the flowers blossoming. The trees are full of flowers after only a couple of days without freezing temperatures. It is awesome how quickly it happens. It was a pleasure to walk outside this evening, after a long 11 hour day, and be greeted by warm breezes rather than the cold slap of just a week ago. I even drove Cat in expectation of riding home with the top down and my hair (what's left of it) flapping with the breeze.

And I did.

Except for the glass of dark red Fess Parker wine waiting for me when I got home, it was the best part of the first day back after a week off.

How I wish every day could end this way.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Monday Musings--April 8, 2013

1. Beautiful days are upon us. I'm seeing forecasted temperatures in the 70's.

Orioles Park at Camden Yards, April 7, 2013
Me, Mom, and Dad

2. Afternoon baseball on a sunny day with my parents and wife. What could be better? Winning.

3. I am amazed how quickly our news media drops stories.

4. The weekend was a wasteland for my sports teams. The Orioles lost two and Syracuse was eliminated from the NCAA tournament after making the final four.

5. Spring Break is over. Ugh! I have to go back to work and face the world again.

6. According to my tax return, my income declined this past year but my taxes, health insurance, and cost of living increased. What is wrong with this picture?

7. I notice that gas prices are falling exactly at the same time that Maryland is planning to raise the gas tax. What a nice way to say thank-you to all of the citizens who have been suffering through rough economic times.

8. Full airline flights and small seats make passengers grumpy--so a study has found. Really? Anyone who flies knows that is true.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Remember the Thresher

One of those sad memorials happened the other day--a remembrance for the 129 crew members of the USS Thresher (SSN-593) which sank during diving trials east of Cape Cod. It was 50 years ago on April 10, 1963, that the USS Thresher sank, taking the lives of all aboard. The crew is now on eternal patrol. I urge you to check out the links to learn more about the tragedy.

It was the Cold War. We knew the Soviets (note: not Russians) were hanging out just off the coast ready to obliterate the United States. Times were tense.

The Cuban Missile Crisis had been resolved only about six months earlier.

I would like to write about how times have changed and peace has blossomed everywhere, but I know that it is not true. During the 60's we had one great enemy. We knew who they were, where they lives, and how they fought. Today, the world has devolved into chaos where the enemy of peace-loving people is right around the next corner or behind the tree ahead.

In these times of sequestration, reducing budgets, increased threat it is important to remember these heroes from 50 years ago who gave their lives to secure peace for the democratic way of life.

From the memorial service:

Vice Adm. Michael J. Connor, the commander of the submarine force, said the Thresher was built with revolutionary capabilities to prevent the Soviet submarines that were operating off the coast of the United States from “doing their deadly mission.” 

“The Thresher helped change the world because she, and ships like her, and the descendents of her, made the Soviet Union realize they could never prevail,” he said. 

For the Thresher families, Connor said, “I know that is probably a small consolation.” But, he said, the sacrifice made by the crew and the civilian technicians on board “will be carried forward by the entire submarine force as we do the nation’s business and the Navy’s business around the world, under the sea.”

The doing the nation's business never stops for the men and women of the armed forces and the Department of Defense. No matter where, no matter when!

 -- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

A Day at the Ball Park

Orioles opening day was a huge success. The crowds for the pre-game festivities were crushing. We couldn't even get into Pickles--the wait to get in was longer than we had until game time.

We found a street party a few blocks away to celebrate before the game. When it was time we entered the ball park for the first time this year. The first time in the park every year is almost like coming home after being away for a long time. The last time I left, the Orioles had just defeated the hated team from up north in the Divisional Playoffs. That was during early October. It is now six months later and we are ready for another great ride.

The day could not have been more perfect. After a week of depressing weather forecasts for game time, the weather broke clear, cool, and magnificent. It was a glorious spring day in Baltimore when the birds return to their roost to hold court for the AL East.

Even in Camden Yards the crowds were crushing. The lines at the restrooms were almost non-stop and the lines for food and drink were even longer. All of Birdland, it seemed, showed up to celebrate the day and the team.

And the most impressive part of the day was the opening pitch. There wasn't one. The team chose to commemorate the late Earl Weaver with a silent opening pitch. Total class.

Opening Day 2013 Orioles Park at Camden Yards

The most exciting part of the day? Chris Davis' Grand Slam. How can you ever beat a Grand Slam to win the game?

BUCK-le Up!

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Spring Break STAY-cation

With the temperatures in the 20's to start the day most mornings this week and highs barely into the 50's some days and high 40's for others, my outdoors activities have been a bit limited. But today, the addition of some morning rain has helped the temperatures remain above freezing for the first time this week and looking at the forecast, I see, for the first time this year, a seven day period with no temperatures in below freezing and the first indication of 70's (Wednesday).

Because I did not head off to the land of warmer temperatures known as Florida, I did get a lot of projects done around the house to get ready for the warmer temperatures which are in the forecast. Yesterday, I even braved the cold and did a good deal of gardening including planting some grasses, two trees, and finishing the garden clean-up. Next up is the mulch! I'm thinking three yards this year.

It is good to take time off to do those projects for which there never seems to be enough time. Some nagging indoor projects were completed as well--for instance a broken shelf in one cabinet was repaired, the rope lights displaced by the winter storms were reattached,

I also assisted as a coach during Jax's first T-Ball practice. It was cold! Football weather not suitable for baseball, but the kids stuck it out like champs. Hopefully Saturday's practice is warmer and more Baseball-like.

Today, however, marks the end of the STAY-cation work and the beginning of the play portion. It is the home opener for the Orioles and that will consume most of my Friday. I hope to be in the crowd in the image by early afternoon. After a successful opening series, the Orioles return to Baltimore and I look forward to the greeting that they will receive.

Do I miss the thought of snorkeling or diving in Florida? Yes. But, that will wait for summer. Did I get everything done off my project list? No. I never rented either the chipper or log splitter--it was just too cold and the ground was too soft to have my truck and equipment driving around on it. More to do during the next couple of weeks.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

When the Field of Dreams becomes a Nightmare

New seasons are filled with hope of unqualified success. Starting off with a win only serves to heighten the expectations for the future. But with 162 games in the season, a loss is bound to happen in there somewhere. Like last evening.

A hotly contested game last evening in Tampa saw the Orioles take an early 4-0 lead which they relinquished during the 6th inning, subsequently falling behind by two runs entering the eighth inning.  After tying the game in the top of the ninth, a walk-off home run by the home team ended the contest.

What when wrong? Two things:

The bull pen had an uncharacteristic meltdown by allowing six runs. None of the relievers did their jobs. Each of the relievers had a job to do and they were not up to the task last evening.

I also fault the "shift" employed against left handed batters during the seventh inning. It seems Tampa's left handed batters are more capable of beating the shift than are the Orioles big guns.

What is the shift? It is a defensive posture where a portion of the field is left uncontested to move a defensive player into another area where a particular batter overwhelmingly hits the ball. In the case of the Orioles last evening, the third baseman moved to right short field in between the first and second baseman, leaving the area down the third base line uncontested.

During the decisive seventh inning, two Tampa lefties in a row beat the shift for singles and were on base when a home run scored them allowing the Rays to take a two run lead.

What went right?

The team battled back. After the initial three runs were scored via home run, the other four runs were scores with timely hitting in each of the 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th innings. Still, 4 for 11 with runners in scoring position is a bit low.

So after two games, the Orioles are 1-1. Let's see how resilient this team is.

The bottom line is grab the handle bar and BUCKle UP! The season is underway.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Picking Up Where They Left Off

My blog gets a little boring at this time of the year for people who are not Orioles fans. I'm not sorry, it is just a fact.

Wieters rounding Third after and Opening Day Two-run Homer

I wandered off to a local watering hole yesterday afternoon to watch the first Orioles game of the season. The excitement of the Spring Training and the unsatisfying loss to the team from up north to end the 2012 playoff run were etched in every Orioles fan's mind and we wonder and hope that, no--we are convinced, this season will be even better than the magical 2012 season when Baltimore became the king of baseball towns again.

And we were rewarded during the first inning with a double from team leader center fielder Adam Jones followed by two run shot off the bat of all star catcher Matt Wieters. And the season was on its way!

Scoring in the 7th on an Adam Jones Double

The opening day game in Tampa had it all. Homers, great plays in the field, and even coming from behind after the Orioles has surrendered their lead and were behind 3-2 at the end of 6 innings. A five run 7th, ignited by two teal leaders who finished the season on the disabled list, Brian Roberts and Nick Markakis, put the exclamation point on why the Orioles did not need to make a flashy and expensive move to acquire outside help to cement the lineup.

Another perfect ending from the bullpen, including a save for Jim Johnson last year's league leading closer,  and it was over with a win!

Was it perfect? No. In Orioles fashion they left too many runners on base at the end of innings, they failed to score any runs after loading the bases with one out during, and the designated hitter, didn't.

The end result though was:

One down and 161 to go.

BUCKle Up!

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Orioles Opening Day

Although they are on the road in Tampa, it is opening day for the resurgent Orioles who are expected to be a force to be reckoned with in baseball this year.

I am excited, my favorite player, Brian Roberts,  will be in the starting line up--although batting ninth he will be playing second base. I have to believe that the Orioles have one of the best infields in all of baseball. They also have three gold glove winners in the outfield.

It is time to rock the league. I am tired of hearing all about the teams from north of here (who will remain nameless) and their woes or successes during the off season.

I still remember the sound of the assembled masses on during the last home playoff game last season echoing off the buildings as the O's defeated the hated team from the north to even the playoff series.

I long for the excitement and enthusiasm to return. Although the pundits are projecting the O's to finish second in the division and earn one of the Wild Card sport, I am believing, as I do every Spring, that I am watching the next World Series Champion when they take the field.

It is time. Time for Boog's (a Baltimore thing), the national anthem, and the words that get the blood moving through my veins.

PLAY BALL!

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Monday Musings - April 1, 2013 Addendum

8. Oops!  I forgot. It is baseball season. Let the good times roll.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Monday Musings - April 1, 2013

1. Yup, it is that day. April Fools Day.

2. I made an interesting connection in the Easter Story yesterday in church. Jesus was placed in a tomb and Pilate had the tomb sealed and guarded. The seal on the tomb was only to be broken on the order of Pilate. I had to giggle at the image of the angel breaking the seal, rolling the stone away and then sitting on the stone--probably on Pilate's official seal. Matthew 28:2 Suddenly there was a severe earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descending from heaven came and rolled away the stone and sat on it. (NET Bible)

3. I have been wrestling with myself over this image, but it is so good, I just couldn't resist. I probably should have. I found it on Facebook. I love B-52's--there is nothing like the raw power of eight jet engines to make your day. When I was stationed a based with B-52's I used to remark that I loved the smell of jet fuel in the morning.

4. The Final Four is set--and Syracuse is still in the mix.

5. The 135th Annual Easter Egg Roll continues on the White House lawn today.

6. 152 eggs were hidden for our annual family Easter Egg Hunt. Held in misty and wet conditions the winner was . . . everyone who participated!

7. The clear skies and sun surprised me this morning. It was a nice surprise.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Happy Easter Morning

Easter 2013 Crocus

Dawn is breaking and I checked out the flowers in the garden this morning as I walked Makayla. The daffodils and crocus are in bloom. It is Easter.

Yesterday, desperate for color in the lawns and gardens we bought pansies and snapdragons. Some color is beginning to return and the clear blue skies and bright sun of yesterday hastened the rebirth of the lawn and gardens. I noticed that the bleeding hearts are pushing up reaching for the light along with many other early Springtime perennials.

I reviewed some pictures from last Easter and I was surprised by how more advanced the Springtime had progressed. Last year our weeping cherry was in full bloom--even considering that Easter was about a week later last year, the blossoms this year are way behind as are the temperatures.

As I prepare to head off to church and fully begin the celebration of the day, let me offer a short prayer that I found written by Max Lucado.

A Prayer of Thanks - an Easter Prayer

by Max Lucado

Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son to earth as a baby so many years ago. Thank you that He paid the punishment for my sins by dying on the cross. And thank you that He rose again to prove that death was truly defeated. I place my trust in You to be my Savior. Guide me through the dark times of my life and give me courage to live for You. Amen

Happy Easter!!

He is Risen--He is Risen indeed!

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Spring Break Again

Although I have not been in school in over a few decades, I continue to celebrate the idea of Spring Break by taking a much needed week off from work every year.

The idea of getting out for a week and either traveling or doing work around the house is appealing. I had hoped to head off to Florida this year--but, I decided not to travel over Spring Break because I need to work around the house and Opening Week of Baseball is this week.

Some things that I have learned about Spring Break:

-- The last work day before Spring Break is longer than Christmas Eve

-- The week seems longer on Monday than on Friday when I realize that I didn't get nearly as many things done as I wanted to get done.

-- I sometimes work (or play) harder on Spring Break than I do at work

-- I look forward to springtime flowers, like these dogwoods from last year. Spring is way behind this year and only beginning to wrest itself from the grip of winter.

-- Sometimes I get to use fun equipment over Spring Break. This year I will be renting a chipper and a log splitter.

-- Enjoy the idea of the week, because it ends too soon.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

They're Here--a Sure Sign of Spring

The FEDEX truck left a present for me the other day. Contained in the package delivered to my door was one of the sure signs of Spring.

My Orioles Season Tickets and parking passes.

No matter how cold it is outside, the arrival of these few tickets  is a harbinger of baseball, summer, and sunshine!

It is time to start planning for 90 degree days. They may not be here for a couple of months, but they are fun to plan for.

Bring on Spring and Summer.

Home Opening Day is just a week away.


-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

What Happened to Springtime?

A friend sent me this.

It says it all.

Phil is no longer my friend.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Delivering on Promises

I ran across an article in the NY Times yesterday about the first rabbi to enter Buchenwald concentration camp and proclaim freedom to the Jews held in captivity there. Herschel Schacter died last week at the age of 95.   It was especially powerful for me to read this article during this week when Passover and Holy Week are being celebrated simultaneously. 

I re-experienced Passover and the Exodus Monday evening at a friend's home for dinner--and I was reminded about how God, through Moses, led his people to freedom after  centuries in bondage. Passover reminded me that God delivers on His promises.

And it is Holy Week as well, a period during which the ultimate sacrifice by a man provided the ultimate freedom from the slavery of sin and death for all. A price was paid for my freedom and too often I forget the price. And I also often forget about how God delivers on his promises.

The article about the first Rabbi into Buchenwald who was able to proclaim freedom to the captive Jews there reminded me of the prophesy in Isaiah 61:1: The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners. (NIV)


But he did so much more, he took action. The story in the NY Times recounts the story of Schacter meeting a small boy in the Camp.  

As he passed a mound of corpses, Rabbi Schacter spied a flicker of movement. Drawing closer, he saw a small boy, Prisoner 17030, hiding in terror behind the mound.
“I was afraid of him,” the child would recall long afterward in an interview with The New York Times. “I knew all the uniforms of SS and Gestapo and Wehrmacht, and all of a sudden, a new kind of uniform. I thought, ‘A new kind of enemy.’ ”
With tears streaming down his face, Rabbi Schacter picked the boy up. “What’s your name, my child?” he asked in Yiddish.
“Lulek,” the child replied.
“How old are you?” the rabbi asked.
“What difference does it make?” Lulek, who was 7, said. “I’m older than you, anyway.”
“Why do you think you’re older?” Rabbi Schacter asked, smiling.
“Because you cry and laugh like a child,” Lulek replied. “I haven’t laughed in a long time, and I don’t even cry anymore. So which one of us is older?” 

Rabbi Schacter discovered nearly a thousand orphaned children in Buchenwald. He and a colleague, Rabbi Robert Marcus, helped arrange for their transport to France — a convoy that included Lulek and the teenage Elie Wiesel — as well as to Switzerland, a group personally conveyed by Rabbi Schacter, and to Palestine.

Isn't that really what it is all about? Being a representative for God to those around us and letting them know that He cares. It is about how we take this week of remembrance and move forward for the rest of the year in the confidence of knowing that God takes action and delivers on His promises.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Dishwashers and Disposers

In a modern kitchen there is a dishwasher under the counter and a disposer at the bottom of the sink.

What happens when they both break within days of each other?

Panic!

An easy thousand dollars of new appliances just waiting to be purchased.

Thankfully, with a bit of creativity and some insightful help from the internet I was able to return to service both of these critical modern appliances!  As I was adding up the dollar signs I saved through the two do-it-yourself repairs, I realized how much wine that money could buy. Or a new garage door, or some other equally as unimpressive object for the home.

But--at least I didn't have to buy a new dishwasher and a disposer.

I guess a penny (or dollar) saved is a penny available to spend elsewhere. Modern economics at work.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD