I had an interesting experience this past weekend. I got tangled-up in "Line of Sight Shopping!"
There we were--walking into Costco, for food.
But as we know, Costco is full of other distractions--clothing, books, CD, auto supplies.
So there we were in this target rich shopping environment--needing some meat and veggies.
And where did we go first?--to look at books for Jackson. Really? And then coats.
Line of sight shopping. if it is there, whether it is on the list or not, we need to shop it. Not necessarily buy it, but shop it. The object goes from not being on the list to suddenly becoming a decision point as to which book should we buy. Why?
Because, like the mountain in front of the mountain climber, it is there.
While it is a great way to support the economic recovery--it doesn't do much for the family budget.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Can You Go Back?
Sometimes I dream of going back.
Back to the way things were--the way relationships were.
In my mind I want to recapture the good things about the past and the people I was with.
There are places now, that sometimes I wish I could return to--but I know I cannot. I have changed and the people there have changed, too.
I think about summers growing up in Upstate New York. Running through the fields and riding my bike along the two-lane road that passed in front of my house. If only I knew then what I know now. I would hold fast to those hot, summer days and not wish I were anywhere else other than right there with the smells of the fields and the summer grasses and fruits and pines on the air.
While I wish it could be better than it was, I am sure it would be a catastrophe.
Last night, I was able to go back, briefly, as the member of a choir gathering to practice for a memorial service for a departed friend and the former Choir Director of the church I used to attend. It was good to see all of the other people who had left the church as well as those who still remain. I was nervous at the thought of returning because of the unresolved issues and broken relationships that contributed to my departure. But despite my concerns, the gathering was blessed, I could tell. There was a joyousness entwined within the sadness and grief of loss. We caught up with each others lives, and we smiled and we joked and we made music as a choir again all in memory of our friend. If only it could be now how it used to be . . .
And that really is the fallacy of trying to go back.
Nothing is ever the same--as much as we would like it to be perfect in our minds, it never really was perfect at that time and it is less so now that we know more.
So there is no going back! We move forward or not at all. But I am blessed with a warm memory rekindled by a reunion of sorts.
Back to the way things were--the way relationships were.
In my mind I want to recapture the good things about the past and the people I was with.
There are places now, that sometimes I wish I could return to--but I know I cannot. I have changed and the people there have changed, too.
I think about summers growing up in Upstate New York. Running through the fields and riding my bike along the two-lane road that passed in front of my house. If only I knew then what I know now. I would hold fast to those hot, summer days and not wish I were anywhere else other than right there with the smells of the fields and the summer grasses and fruits and pines on the air.
While I wish it could be better than it was, I am sure it would be a catastrophe.
Last night, I was able to go back, briefly, as the member of a choir gathering to practice for a memorial service for a departed friend and the former Choir Director of the church I used to attend. It was good to see all of the other people who had left the church as well as those who still remain. I was nervous at the thought of returning because of the unresolved issues and broken relationships that contributed to my departure. But despite my concerns, the gathering was blessed, I could tell. There was a joyousness entwined within the sadness and grief of loss. We caught up with each others lives, and we smiled and we joked and we made music as a choir again all in memory of our friend. If only it could be now how it used to be . . .
And that really is the fallacy of trying to go back.
Nothing is ever the same--as much as we would like it to be perfect in our minds, it never really was perfect at that time and it is less so now that we know more.
So there is no going back! We move forward or not at all. But I am blessed with a warm memory rekindled by a reunion of sorts.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Veteran's Day
Do you get the day off today for Veteran's Day?
Did you even know today was a holiday--a very special celebration? Or has Veteran's Day become another of the forgotten remembrances of our past with no place in our entitled future?
This is a day remembered around the Western World. The remembrance of the armistice which ended WWI--although the formal treaty would not be signed until later. A day to remember the sacrifices of the men and women of our armed forces to secure and protect the freedoms we enjoy and often take for granted.
We are losing touch with our heritage and our history. As we become a people of the moment--we lose depth and a sense of purpose and history. We lose sight of the mission of America in the world. A noble calling for which many of our Veteran's have served and sacrificed.
I am a Cold War warrior. A real threat and a capable adversary. Fortunately, we did not actually employ many of the terrible weapons that were developed during that period--but, it was a war nonetheless. Two strong, determined adversaries staring at each other over a long stretch of Europe. Ready at a moments notice to obliterate mankind from the planet.
We won the Cold War.
Veterans of the U.S. helped win WWI and WWII, and served in many other conflicts (Korea, Vietnam, Haiti, Bosnia, Afghanistan, Iraq 2X)--some remembered and others which have slipped into the fog of a hazy past.
Veteran's are our instruments of peace in this world. Of the four elements of national power (political, economic, psychological, and military)--it is the military which rides upon the dedication of the citizen soldiers of our nation to go to the front lines and be that force upon which all of us depend.
Remember the Veteran's today and God bless the USA!
Did you even know today was a holiday--a very special celebration? Or has Veteran's Day become another of the forgotten remembrances of our past with no place in our entitled future?
This is a day remembered around the Western World. The remembrance of the armistice which ended WWI--although the formal treaty would not be signed until later. A day to remember the sacrifices of the men and women of our armed forces to secure and protect the freedoms we enjoy and often take for granted.
We are losing touch with our heritage and our history. As we become a people of the moment--we lose depth and a sense of purpose and history. We lose sight of the mission of America in the world. A noble calling for which many of our Veteran's have served and sacrificed.
I am a Cold War warrior. A real threat and a capable adversary. Fortunately, we did not actually employ many of the terrible weapons that were developed during that period--but, it was a war nonetheless. Two strong, determined adversaries staring at each other over a long stretch of Europe. Ready at a moments notice to obliterate mankind from the planet.
We won the Cold War.
Veterans of the U.S. helped win WWI and WWII, and served in many other conflicts (Korea, Vietnam, Haiti, Bosnia, Afghanistan, Iraq 2X)--some remembered and others which have slipped into the fog of a hazy past.
Veteran's are our instruments of peace in this world. Of the four elements of national power (political, economic, psychological, and military)--it is the military which rides upon the dedication of the citizen soldiers of our nation to go to the front lines and be that force upon which all of us depend.
Remember the Veteran's today and God bless the USA!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Another Missing Holiday - Thanksgiving
I went into a Hallmark store over the weekend to try and find some Thanksgiving related decorations.
I have a fondness for animated seasonal toys--and I realized that I have many for Christmas and Halloween, and Valentines Day. But none, for what is one of my favorite holidays--Thanksgiving.
I was thinking of animated turkey which sings "Turkey in the Straw" or some equally folksy theme.
Do you know what I found?
Christmas!
The store was Christmas-heavy with only one small shelf unit adorned with some very weak Thanksgiving items.
We have allowed the retailers to take control. We are losing contact with our past and with a holiday which should unite all Americans--from a purely American perspective devoid of religion--although the holiday was based upon religious precepts. Thanksgiving provides a time where we can gather to give thanks for what we have and what has been provided to us as a result of those who have gone on before.
But, as a society, I worry we have lost our sense of history--and our recognition of the struggles and victories of our forefathers, their hard earned victories are now seen as our entitlements--something we no longer really think about. We don't give thanks because we do not recognize how we became such an entitled people.
It has already happened to other holidays--Columbus Day and Veteran's Day to name two. Days when even the schools--which are government institutions fail to take time to teach the students, who are our future, to remember our past (good and bad) and the sacrifices of those deserving to be remembered. It is our past which brings us to where we are today and serves as the springboard for the future.
Happy Thanksgiving! It is coming. And while you are at it, don't forget Veteran's Day--it is tomorrow.
I have a fondness for animated seasonal toys--and I realized that I have many for Christmas and Halloween, and Valentines Day. But none, for what is one of my favorite holidays--Thanksgiving.
I was thinking of animated turkey which sings "Turkey in the Straw" or some equally folksy theme.
Do you know what I found?
Christmas!
The store was Christmas-heavy with only one small shelf unit adorned with some very weak Thanksgiving items.
We have allowed the retailers to take control. We are losing contact with our past and with a holiday which should unite all Americans--from a purely American perspective devoid of religion--although the holiday was based upon religious precepts. Thanksgiving provides a time where we can gather to give thanks for what we have and what has been provided to us as a result of those who have gone on before.
But, as a society, I worry we have lost our sense of history--and our recognition of the struggles and victories of our forefathers, their hard earned victories are now seen as our entitlements--something we no longer really think about. We don't give thanks because we do not recognize how we became such an entitled people.
It has already happened to other holidays--Columbus Day and Veteran's Day to name two. Days when even the schools--which are government institutions fail to take time to teach the students, who are our future, to remember our past (good and bad) and the sacrifices of those deserving to be remembered. It is our past which brings us to where we are today and serves as the springboard for the future.
Happy Thanksgiving! It is coming. And while you are at it, don't forget Veteran's Day--it is tomorrow.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Monday Musings - November 9, 2009
1. The headlines (newspaper and electronic) this week were really downers. Tragedy everywhere, it seemed. Why can't we behave as adults in our world and help others out? Here is a sample from Friday:
- U.S. unemployment rate hits 10.2 percent in October, the highest rate since April, 1983. Job losses total 190,000.
- 12 die in Army rampage (now 13)
- Waiting to learn who pays Dixon's legal bills. (Baltimore City Mayor)
- Health battle nears fever pitch (we know what happened here!)
- At least eight people have been shot in an Orlando, Florida, high-rise office building, CNN affiliates report.
2. Another football weekend is over--I did pretty bad--again. All of my teams were in the losing column: Maryland, Syracuse, and the Baltimore Ravens. Remind me why I watch football again? Oh yeah--because baseball season is over.
3. God provided a stunning weekend weather-wise. I am glad that I could enjoy it and be outside in the sun. It was great--the sun was so bright that I could not read the Sunday paper while sitting outdoors. So, at Chris' suggestion, I took off my shirt and just sat there enjoying the warm rays. Was it really November?
4. What is the primary rule of computers? Back-up, back-up, back-up.
5. There are about 27 million people around the world living as slaves! If you are interested in learning more--follow the link to the International Justice Mission. I was shocked to learn this. We think we live in a kinder gentler world--but reality is anything but kind and gentle.
6. Sunny Sunday autumn mornings, crisp and clear bring cheer to dreary, weather challenged souls.
7. Looking forward to the week ahead, I have strategically positioned a day off on Thursday to have new windows installed at the house. It does two important things--improves the house while qualifying for a tax credit AND gives me essentially a mid-week weekend since I have Wednesday off to celebrate Veteran's Day.
8. So the first stew of the season is history--yes--it is the time of the year for heavy, hot, stews. Chris made a fabulous one for Sunday, only, fortunately, the weather did not cooperate and it was warm and nice--definitely not stew weather. Can you spell leftovers???
9. We drove Kitty to church Sunday. It was good to have her out on the road for a bit. I've started calling her the "old lady" and Chris rankles at that. Maybe she want me to call her "my old lady?" Probably not.
- U.S. unemployment rate hits 10.2 percent in October, the highest rate since April, 1983. Job losses total 190,000.
- 12 die in Army rampage (now 13)
- Waiting to learn who pays Dixon's legal bills. (Baltimore City Mayor)
- Health battle nears fever pitch (we know what happened here!)
- At least eight people have been shot in an Orlando, Florida, high-rise office building, CNN affiliates report.
2. Another football weekend is over--I did pretty bad--again. All of my teams were in the losing column: Maryland, Syracuse, and the Baltimore Ravens. Remind me why I watch football again? Oh yeah--because baseball season is over.
3. God provided a stunning weekend weather-wise. I am glad that I could enjoy it and be outside in the sun. It was great--the sun was so bright that I could not read the Sunday paper while sitting outdoors. So, at Chris' suggestion, I took off my shirt and just sat there enjoying the warm rays. Was it really November?
4. What is the primary rule of computers? Back-up, back-up, back-up.
5. There are about 27 million people around the world living as slaves! If you are interested in learning more--follow the link to the International Justice Mission. I was shocked to learn this. We think we live in a kinder gentler world--but reality is anything but kind and gentle.
6. Sunny Sunday autumn mornings, crisp and clear bring cheer to dreary, weather challenged souls.
7. Looking forward to the week ahead, I have strategically positioned a day off on Thursday to have new windows installed at the house. It does two important things--improves the house while qualifying for a tax credit AND gives me essentially a mid-week weekend since I have Wednesday off to celebrate Veteran's Day.
8. So the first stew of the season is history--yes--it is the time of the year for heavy, hot, stews. Chris made a fabulous one for Sunday, only, fortunately, the weather did not cooperate and it was warm and nice--definitely not stew weather. Can you spell leftovers???
9. We drove Kitty to church Sunday. It was good to have her out on the road for a bit. I've started calling her the "old lady" and Chris rankles at that. Maybe she want me to call her "my old lady?" Probably not.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Jobs
I received this news alert from CNN--
"U.S. unemployment rate hits 10.2 percent in October, the highest rate since April, 1983. Job losses total 190,000."
I thought the government just said that we saved over 265,000 jobs?
Don't the 190,000 people who lost their jobs know that their jobs were really saved? If we save 265,000 but lose 190,000 jobs does that mean we really saved 75,000 jobs--or does it mean we really lost 455,000 jobs?
I'm so confused!
Does Congress have any idea that we are talking about real people and families here and not monthly numbers on a spreadsheet report?
Each job has a face--and possibly many faces attached to it.
The Congress is talking about a health care reform package which we cannot afford while the people who need it the most are losing their jobs and won't be able to get health care in any form.
2010 is an election year!
Right now my vote is for anyone but the incumbent! We need to restore accountability to Congress.
Question:
And who is the Congress accountable to? "We, the People . . ."
"U.S. unemployment rate hits 10.2 percent in October, the highest rate since April, 1983. Job losses total 190,000."
I thought the government just said that we saved over 265,000 jobs?
Don't the 190,000 people who lost their jobs know that their jobs were really saved? If we save 265,000 but lose 190,000 jobs does that mean we really saved 75,000 jobs--or does it mean we really lost 455,000 jobs?
I'm so confused!
Does Congress have any idea that we are talking about real people and families here and not monthly numbers on a spreadsheet report?
Each job has a face--and possibly many faces attached to it.
The Congress is talking about a health care reform package which we cannot afford while the people who need it the most are losing their jobs and won't be able to get health care in any form.
2010 is an election year!
Right now my vote is for anyone but the incumbent! We need to restore accountability to Congress.
Question:
And who is the Congress accountable to? "We, the People . . ."
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Anakena Carmenere 2008 Rapel Valley - Review
I looked forward to uncorking and tasting this usually great, moderately priced wine. Previous vintages have been a favorite to serve to friends and family.
I was disappointed. This is a very young wine and it failed to meet my expectations.
The bouquet was bland --it did not provide the enticing odors to get the palatte ready for the wine.
The wine was very peppery with hints of tobacco, lacking the usual deep fruitiness of the South American varietals of this wine. There were dark berry hints in the flavor, but the peppery spicy flavors over powered them. And I like peppery, spicy wine--but this just didn't come together for me.
The color, however, was magnificient. Deep purple and enticing.
Recommendation: Even at less than $10 per bottle, I have to give an AVOID to this wine. There are better examples of carmenere out there--Concha Y Toro being one.
I was disappointed. This is a very young wine and it failed to meet my expectations.
The bouquet was bland --it did not provide the enticing odors to get the palatte ready for the wine.
The wine was very peppery with hints of tobacco, lacking the usual deep fruitiness of the South American varietals of this wine. There were dark berry hints in the flavor, but the peppery spicy flavors over powered them. And I like peppery, spicy wine--but this just didn't come together for me.
The color, however, was magnificient. Deep purple and enticing.
Recommendation: Even at less than $10 per bottle, I have to give an AVOID to this wine. There are better examples of carmenere out there--Concha Y Toro being one.
Friday, November 6, 2009
People You Pass Along the Way
Sadly, I learned the other day that I may have been blocked on Facebook by former friend--with whom I have never actually been a friend with on Facebook.
It hurt a bit to think that we can be so small minded.
I thought it was a social interaction site anyway. Kinda hard to interact when you're blocked and it wasn't like I was spamming. We never even had contact on Facebook--so it was a preemptive strike.
Sure, there were unresolved issues--but, hey--I'm available to discuss them and get over them. Have been for a while now. My previous attempts to rebuild the burned bridges were rebuffed.
I don't know why I care that I've been blocked. It isn't like we have had any contact. I guess it is just the idea that the communication pathways have been torn down. I've been declared PNG before--but I really earned it. And it was mutual. But this was different. I always hoped that cooler heads would prevail--after time healed a few wounds--and I am healing. This episode however reminded me that I am not healed. I still hurt.
Hey--it's a jungle out here--we need to take better care of our relationships.
It hurt a bit to think that we can be so small minded.
I thought it was a social interaction site anyway. Kinda hard to interact when you're blocked and it wasn't like I was spamming. We never even had contact on Facebook--so it was a preemptive strike.
Sure, there were unresolved issues--but, hey--I'm available to discuss them and get over them. Have been for a while now. My previous attempts to rebuild the burned bridges were rebuffed.
I don't know why I care that I've been blocked. It isn't like we have had any contact. I guess it is just the idea that the communication pathways have been torn down. I've been declared PNG before--but I really earned it. And it was mutual. But this was different. I always hoped that cooler heads would prevail--after time healed a few wounds--and I am healing. This episode however reminded me that I am not healed. I still hurt.
Hey--it's a jungle out here--we need to take better care of our relationships.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
World Serious Thoughts
And so it was decided Wednesday night.
The Yankees resume their presumed throne atop Major League Baseball as the champions of the world by winning the World Series in six games. Or at least champions of North America, well except for maybe Cuba.
They just seem to be a lot of highly paid mercenaries, who don't play the game for the "Love of the game" but for the fame and fortune it brings.
I guess I'm just being difficult because the distance between the 28th best team in baseball, the Orioles, and the best team, the Yankees, seems so great a chasm.
I love baseball, but I just could not bring myself to watch the game after it became apparent when the score inched up to 5-1 that the Yankees were going to win. I reached a decision point: go to bed or stay up and watch the Yankees consume the Phillies. Go to bed won.
Don't get me wrong--the Yankees have some great players. Some that should have been Orioles! But in my mind they represent the worst that baseball has to offer--except of course for winning a championship.
And so now, I am without baseball--another summertime friend has packed it in for the winter. I get to watch the Orioles as they struggle for respectability during the off-season--and maybe next year even sport a winning record--82-80 would be a huge improvement.
Sigh. Baseball, when there are no games being played is statistics and dreams. I have lots of dreams but lack the statistics to bring them to reality. But--February is coming. And when catchers and pitchers report--it is a sure sign that no matter what the groundhog says--Spring is here and summer is not far behind.
So for the next year--we will have to suffer through the words--"and now the World Series Champion New York Yankees"--attached to everything baseball. But the winds of change are moving in the American League East--and the dreamer in me says--watch out Yankees--there are a bunch of Orioles from Baltimore that are looking to replace you!
The Yankees resume their presumed throne atop Major League Baseball as the champions of the world by winning the World Series in six games. Or at least champions of North America, well except for maybe Cuba.
They just seem to be a lot of highly paid mercenaries, who don't play the game for the "Love of the game" but for the fame and fortune it brings.
I guess I'm just being difficult because the distance between the 28th best team in baseball, the Orioles, and the best team, the Yankees, seems so great a chasm.
I love baseball, but I just could not bring myself to watch the game after it became apparent when the score inched up to 5-1 that the Yankees were going to win. I reached a decision point: go to bed or stay up and watch the Yankees consume the Phillies. Go to bed won.
Don't get me wrong--the Yankees have some great players. Some that should have been Orioles! But in my mind they represent the worst that baseball has to offer--except of course for winning a championship.
And so now, I am without baseball--another summertime friend has packed it in for the winter. I get to watch the Orioles as they struggle for respectability during the off-season--and maybe next year even sport a winning record--82-80 would be a huge improvement.
Sigh. Baseball, when there are no games being played is statistics and dreams. I have lots of dreams but lack the statistics to bring them to reality. But--February is coming. And when catchers and pitchers report--it is a sure sign that no matter what the groundhog says--Spring is here and summer is not far behind.
So for the next year--we will have to suffer through the words--"and now the World Series Champion New York Yankees"--attached to everything baseball. But the winds of change are moving in the American League East--and the dreamer in me says--watch out Yankees--there are a bunch of Orioles from Baltimore that are looking to replace you!
November Frost
The frost kissed pumpkins on the lawn confirmed it.
Yeah--winter really is closer than I want to believe
The trees are losing their majestically colored robes
which now lay strewn in ever growing piles on the ground
waiting for me to move them off the grass that I enjoy mowing
a reminder of the summer past
when they were green still on the trees and doing their job
of providing shade for parties and play
The truck started without problem
I remember olden times when I had a car which would not start in the cold
Kinda like me--I have trouble getting going in the cold, too
I would spend the whole charge on a battery trying to get that 1970 Ford to start
Only to need a jump from a friend or relative
I'll probably need a jump start soon, too
So there it was in plain sight
No doubts at all
The frost on the windshield, the house tops, the trees
The hint of snow flurries by the weather forecaster
And the cold reality that I probably should have worn a coat
According to the calendar
November is wholly part of the Autumn season
But that is only a cruel joke
November is really is the foot soldier of Winter
The harbinger of the snow and ice and months of darkness
We need to light warm fires in the fireplaces of our hearts
To remind us that April is only five months away!
Yeah--winter really is closer than I want to believe
We had moved the plants inside in anticipation of the frost
They, like me, don't like the cold either
Hibiscus and Palm trees--
Imagine warm weather plants
trying to survive in the frosty northlands
Probably not going to happen without intervention
The heat kicked on in the house
as we dipped below the 62 degree bottom threshold we set.
So it was warm when I got out of bed
But the thought of sending more money to the BGE made my head spin
They charge too much for electricity
which now lay strewn in ever growing piles on the ground
waiting for me to move them off the grass that I enjoy mowing
a reminder of the summer past
when they were green still on the trees and doing their job
of providing shade for parties and play
The truck started without problem
I remember olden times when I had a car which would not start in the cold
Kinda like me--I have trouble getting going in the cold, too
I would spend the whole charge on a battery trying to get that 1970 Ford to start
Only to need a jump from a friend or relative
I'll probably need a jump start soon, too
So there it was in plain sight
No doubts at all
The frost on the windshield, the house tops, the trees
The hint of snow flurries by the weather forecaster
And the cold reality that I probably should have worn a coat
According to the calendar
November is wholly part of the Autumn season
But that is only a cruel joke
November is really is the foot soldier of Winter
The harbinger of the snow and ice and months of darkness
We need to light warm fires in the fireplaces of our hearts
To remind us that April is only five months away!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
2008 Norton - Wine Review
The 2008 Norton from Keswick Vineyards is a pleasure to drink. I especially enjoy the strong tannins of this young wine--but truly wish I had bought more so I could enjoy it as it ages. This is a Virginia wine and if you thought only really good wines come from places other than Virginia (as I did once) then you need to spend some time visiting wineries in Virginia. These winemakers know how to make wines which are spectacular for the region.
I opened a bottle the other night and remembered why I bought this wine.
It has magnificent color--a rich, dark, full purple which makes the mouth water even before bringing the glass to the nose to enjoy the fragrant bouquet. Understand--this is not a light wine--but a full body wine for people who like a wine that can stand on its own.
The bouquet is inviting especially with the eucalyptus which draws you deeper into the wine. The taste has hints of raspberry and coffee and spices--but the wines youth, right now, is really in the tannins which will really improve the wines complexity as it ages.
I am going to take one of the other bottles I bought and put a note on it--do not uncork until 2014! I loved it the other evening--I can only imagine what it will be in a few years.
Recommendation: Buy this wine, cellar it and enjoy now and enjoy it more in a few years. At $21 per bottle it has the makings of a great wine for the future!
I opened a bottle the other night and remembered why I bought this wine.
It has magnificent color--a rich, dark, full purple which makes the mouth water even before bringing the glass to the nose to enjoy the fragrant bouquet. Understand--this is not a light wine--but a full body wine for people who like a wine that can stand on its own.
The bouquet is inviting especially with the eucalyptus which draws you deeper into the wine. The taste has hints of raspberry and coffee and spices--but the wines youth, right now, is really in the tannins which will really improve the wines complexity as it ages.
I am going to take one of the other bottles I bought and put a note on it--do not uncork until 2014! I loved it the other evening--I can only imagine what it will be in a few years.
Recommendation: Buy this wine, cellar it and enjoy now and enjoy it more in a few years. At $21 per bottle it has the makings of a great wine for the future!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Makayla the Wonder Pup Turns One
Unbelievable. My hot dog.
It is happy birthday to Makayla! She turned one this morning and it truly is an amazing feat.
From the tiny furry pup that was barking for me under last year's Christmas Tree, to today she has brought a complete change in life for Chris and I while reminding us how much we love dogs.
Can I just say that next to the bicycle I got when I was a kid--she is probably the best Christmas present ever!
Not just a gift--but a companion and friend who truly loves to be with us.
She jumps up on the couch (shhh!, don't tell Chris) and plays with me while I am watching TV. She wants to go places with me--no matter where. And she is just around.
She also forces me to get out for long-ish walks to enjoy the outdoors--even though it is along a
street.She is also probably the reason we didn't go bike riding this year--because we couldn't take her along--but I think we may try to get her to run alongside the bikes next year.
Oh yeah--she it too smart for her own good.
And some in the family think she is too high octane--her secret nickname is "animal" from the Muppet's!
She is becoming a first class watchdog--anything that moves withing a hundred yards of the house is alerted on! And that is not a bad thing.
Thanks to all who participated in the let's get Dad a dog for Christmas secret pact. And thanks for letting me choose the gender--even though I had no idea at the time that I was doing that.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Monday Musings - November 2, 2009
1. November already. Where did the year go already. It seems as if we were just celebrating New Years, only yesterday!
2. The World Series has devolved into a Yankee love-fest! Ugh! Since I cheer for a team which occupies the cellar in the American League East--I get more than enough Yankee-love every season. Let's hope the Phillies can get the horses running and turn the series around!
3. I hurt my back on Columbus Day-- and I can't seem to get over it. I rested yesterday and it seems a bit better--but in reading on line today--they say that continued activity and stretching is the best thing for strengthening and overcoming lower back pain. So no pain, no gain is a reality I guess!
4. Football weekends are much sweeter when the teams you are cheering for win! (or don't play)
5. Halloween, at least among small children, seems to bring out a lot of fun. Too bad the day is also associated with so much negative activity.
6. I continue to be amazed by people who believe that creating more laws and regulations will make life better. I remember the person who won a huge lawsuit for being burned on McDonald's coffee. I kind of like the way the Australians do stuff. If someone does something stupid and gets hurt or killed and then a law suit is filed for damages--they take the approach: don't do stupid things. people need to be responsible for their actions and the consequences thereof. Case dismissed. It certainly helps keeps costs down. We are all still paying for the damages awarded in that lawsuit.
7. My dog was a hotdog for Halloween. Makes me smile! Next year she is going to be Superdog!
8. It was a rainy autumn weekend this past weekend. Yet, we found lots to keep us busy. Putting energy into improving the quality of our living area keeps us in a state of constant urban renewal, but also keeps our interest in updating our lives.
9. We were advised of an upcoming celebration of life for an old friend this past week that we have been invited to attend. He was a member of the church we left almost two years ago and I have been thinking a lot about him and I am hopeful that the memorial service may heal some of the rifts that have developed in some of my relationships over our decision to leave that church. I have been reminded of many unresolved issues over that decision. They just kind of hang there like the "elephant in the room" waiting for resolution.
2. The World Series has devolved into a Yankee love-fest! Ugh! Since I cheer for a team which occupies the cellar in the American League East--I get more than enough Yankee-love every season. Let's hope the Phillies can get the horses running and turn the series around!
3. I hurt my back on Columbus Day-- and I can't seem to get over it. I rested yesterday and it seems a bit better--but in reading on line today--they say that continued activity and stretching is the best thing for strengthening and overcoming lower back pain. So no pain, no gain is a reality I guess!
4. Football weekends are much sweeter when the teams you are cheering for win! (or don't play)
5. Halloween, at least among small children, seems to bring out a lot of fun. Too bad the day is also associated with so much negative activity.
6. I continue to be amazed by people who believe that creating more laws and regulations will make life better. I remember the person who won a huge lawsuit for being burned on McDonald's coffee. I kind of like the way the Australians do stuff. If someone does something stupid and gets hurt or killed and then a law suit is filed for damages--they take the approach: don't do stupid things. people need to be responsible for their actions and the consequences thereof. Case dismissed. It certainly helps keeps costs down. We are all still paying for the damages awarded in that lawsuit.
7. My dog was a hotdog for Halloween. Makes me smile! Next year she is going to be Superdog!
8. It was a rainy autumn weekend this past weekend. Yet, we found lots to keep us busy. Putting energy into improving the quality of our living area keeps us in a state of constant urban renewal, but also keeps our interest in updating our lives.
9. We were advised of an upcoming celebration of life for an old friend this past week that we have been invited to attend. He was a member of the church we left almost two years ago and I have been thinking a lot about him and I am hopeful that the memorial service may heal some of the rifts that have developed in some of my relationships over our decision to leave that church. I have been reminded of many unresolved issues over that decision. They just kind of hang there like the "elephant in the room" waiting for resolution.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Friday's Freedom leads to Saturday
So, I was talking with some fellow workers the other day and I asked--what is your favorite day of the week?
And of course the response was--Friday!
Really? I asked?
Yeah, sure they emphatically stated. What's your favorite day of the week?
Saturday, I replied.
And they looked at me! Of course it is their favorite day, too. I was just a wee bit outside the box they had made for themselves.
We can argue about favorite days of the week--but in my mind I'd rather be enjoying the day than planning to enjoy the day. People who love Fridays love it because the feel a sense of relief about coming to the end of another work week.
But we need to be in the moment! Be happy where we are because we have a lot of important things to do right where we are.
Enjoy the day!
Not constantly be thinking we'd rather be somewhere else.
Right--like the Dry Tortugas? Snorkeling?
Easier said than done.
Still, all things being what they are--my favorite day is still Saturday--even when the dog wakes me up at 4:30AM. That means I just get to enjoy more of my favorite day!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Counting on God - Song
I've been listening to a song lately that really gets me excited. It gets my mind and blood moving as I drive to and from work.
It is Counting on God by Jared Anderson© 2007 Vertical Worship Songs. Or watch and listen to Counting on God on You Tube.
The Bridge in the song is as follows:
It is the bridge that pulls the entirety of the song together as it describes the miracle and the mystery that sets us free--
Free from what? You ask?
From the law of sin and death.
I have seen what I call mixed up Christianity lately. It is populated by those who do not understand the concept of not being under the law. They continue to hold onto parts and preach openly about performing duties under parts of the Law--but do not understand that you cannot hold onto only parts of the Law--you have to take it all or none. And if you hold onto the Law then you can only be justified by the Law and that is by definition: impossible! Except for Jesus who fulfilled the Law.
Galatians 2:16 says it best:
yet we know that no one is justified by the works of the law but by the faithfulness of Jesus Christ. And we have come to believe in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by the faithfulness of Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified. - NET Bible
Hence the mixed up Christianity. It is good to be knowledgeable of the Law--in order to appreciate how Christ has set us free through grace. But--we cannot continue to hold onto parts of the Law because they are convenient. There is a lot of the Law which is not convenient.
So if the Law is designed to convict us and make us come to grips with our guilt--why do we insist on not recognizing the miracle which freed us from the grip of the Law?
We are a mixed up people. I think partly because we have a hard time accepting that the mystery of freedom is that it is free! We can't do anything and we are a people of doers. We have to do something to take ownership and make it feel like we deserve whatever it is we worked for.
But that's it--isn't it? We don't deserve it! No one is good enough or has done enough.
It is Counting on God by Jared Anderson© 2007 Vertical Worship Songs. Or watch and listen to Counting on God on You Tube.
The Bridge in the song is as follows:
The miracle of Christ in me
Is the mystery that sets me free
I'm nothing like I used to be
Open up your eyes you'll see
It is the bridge that pulls the entirety of the song together as it describes the miracle and the mystery that sets us free--
Free from what? You ask?
From the law of sin and death.
I have seen what I call mixed up Christianity lately. It is populated by those who do not understand the concept of not being under the law. They continue to hold onto parts and preach openly about performing duties under parts of the Law--but do not understand that you cannot hold onto only parts of the Law--you have to take it all or none. And if you hold onto the Law then you can only be justified by the Law and that is by definition: impossible! Except for Jesus who fulfilled the Law.
Galatians 2:16 says it best:
yet we know that no one is justified by the works of the law but by the faithfulness of Jesus Christ. And we have come to believe in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by the faithfulness of Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified. - NET Bible
Hence the mixed up Christianity. It is good to be knowledgeable of the Law--in order to appreciate how Christ has set us free through grace. But--we cannot continue to hold onto parts of the Law because they are convenient. There is a lot of the Law which is not convenient.
So if the Law is designed to convict us and make us come to grips with our guilt--why do we insist on not recognizing the miracle which freed us from the grip of the Law?
We are a mixed up people. I think partly because we have a hard time accepting that the mystery of freedom is that it is free! We can't do anything and we are a people of doers. We have to do something to take ownership and make it feel like we deserve whatever it is we worked for.
But that's it--isn't it? We don't deserve it! No one is good enough or has done enough.
And the Chorus of the song is the kicker!
Joy unspeakable that won't go away
And just enough strength
To live for today
So I never have to worry
What tomorrow will bring
'Cause my faith is on solid rock
I am counting on God
I'm counting on God!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Autumn Colors
Two weekends ago as we were in Niagara Falls, I was surprised that the autumn colors were only beginning to be on display in the trees.This picture was taken along the Niagara River of trees in colorful foliage--but no where near maximum color.
I had expected to see fully colored trees--robed in the colors of Autumn.
But not.
That has since occurred here in Maryland and the leaves are falling from the trees with increasing ferocity.
That coupled with the rain really lets me know--the dark times of winter are upon us.
But it is nice to enjoy the colors of the trees while they last because their beauty will sustain us though the gray and white season.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Leaves, Grass, and Autumn Lawn Mowing
I mowed the lawn last evening after work. While this doesn't in itself seem to be of any great consequence--it was an experience. We have a bagger for the mower to help keep the grass clippings off the lawn because, well, the track into the house and make a mess.
Yesterday, because the fallen leaves of autumn were all around on the ground, the bagger wasn't even making it once around the yard. It significantly increased the amount of time necessary to complete the relatively simple task of mowing. At one point I was very frustrated with the leaves and the expense of time. It was getting cool in the evening air as I was mowing and I really wanted to finish.
It is amazing how the lawns seem to change with the seasons. We change the height of the mower to accommodate the differences in the grass. And I really have to enjoy mowing in the autumn, because I never really know when the last mow of the season will occur. Usually, here in Maryland it is sometime in November.
But you never know--it is weather dependent.
Somehow, I think the snow is coming!
Brrrrr!
Yesterday, because the fallen leaves of autumn were all around on the ground, the bagger wasn't even making it once around the yard. It significantly increased the amount of time necessary to complete the relatively simple task of mowing. At one point I was very frustrated with the leaves and the expense of time. It was getting cool in the evening air as I was mowing and I really wanted to finish.
It is amazing how the lawns seem to change with the seasons. We change the height of the mower to accommodate the differences in the grass. And I really have to enjoy mowing in the autumn, because I never really know when the last mow of the season will occur. Usually, here in Maryland it is sometime in November.
But you never know--it is weather dependent.
Somehow, I think the snow is coming!
Brrrrr!
Monday, October 26, 2009
Monday Musings - October 26, 2009
1. The autumn leaves were magnificent this weekend, in full color and also falling to the ground to blanket the yard with their beauty. There is something about a clear blue sky and golden and red colored trees that makes the heart sing--even though it is a harbinger of the winter ahead.
2. Celebrations! Baby showers, anniversaries, birthdays--we continue in so many different ways to celebrate life and new life and lives together. Congrats Nicole and Jeremy on your anniversary and also for the expectations of the new life, Lucas, that you are bringing into the world.
3. Why does Makayla get up early on Saturdays, but not want to get up on on Mondays? She needs a Friday night play date with a furry friend!
4. Family, football, friends and food! Would you really want a Sunday without them?
5. Conference planning is hard work! It doesn't matter if there are 50 or 180 people in attendance--the planning to make a conference successful is really trying. And when it is over--they is a long sigh of relief.
6. I heard a funny pronunciation of the H1N1 moniker this week-- hiney! If you look at it as HiNi--it kinda works.
7. An adjunct to conference planning--hosting a party for 20 people in the house is harder work than planning for a conference. At least fro the conference I can use a caterer AND, I don't need to clean up afterwards! Way to go Chris and Jodie--you guys rock!
8. What is the equivalent to an NFL quarterback throwing a 80 yard touchdown pass with time expiring to win the game? Sending Bob out in his truck into Baltimore an hour-and-a-half before a baby shower to retrieve a critical gift! Oh yeah--better be back before it starts!
9. Pop quiz--how do you make a sore back disappear? Play three games of racquetball in the morning!
2. Celebrations! Baby showers, anniversaries, birthdays--we continue in so many different ways to celebrate life and new life and lives together. Congrats Nicole and Jeremy on your anniversary and also for the expectations of the new life, Lucas, that you are bringing into the world.
3. Why does Makayla get up early on Saturdays, but not want to get up on on Mondays? She needs a Friday night play date with a furry friend!
4. Family, football, friends and food! Would you really want a Sunday without them?
5. Conference planning is hard work! It doesn't matter if there are 50 or 180 people in attendance--the planning to make a conference successful is really trying. And when it is over--they is a long sigh of relief.
6. I heard a funny pronunciation of the H1N1 moniker this week-- hiney! If you look at it as HiNi--it kinda works.
7. An adjunct to conference planning--hosting a party for 20 people in the house is harder work than planning for a conference. At least fro the conference I can use a caterer AND, I don't need to clean up afterwards! Way to go Chris and Jodie--you guys rock!
8. What is the equivalent to an NFL quarterback throwing a 80 yard touchdown pass with time expiring to win the game? Sending Bob out in his truck into Baltimore an hour-and-a-half before a baby shower to retrieve a critical gift! Oh yeah--better be back before it starts!
9. Pop quiz--how do you make a sore back disappear? Play three games of racquetball in the morning!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Conference Week
This is the week I am hosting the annual conference at work. We had over 170 people sign up and that is a huge logistical effort trying to keep the agenda moving and ensure the support for all of the attendees.
Tomorrow--Friday is the last day. Yay.
I have had a lot of help again this year and I really understand how much teamwork is necessary to pull a three-day conference off.
The agenda was pretty well constructed--but as always--there are last minute changes and adjustments.
I dread conference week every year. It is a lot of work and planning and the execution requires a lot of team work. But mostly it is a lot of work and a lot to keep straight and make sure it looks effortless even though it is a lot of effort.
It is good to reconnect with old friends though.
I guess I should embrace the opportunity to plan and execute the conference--but all I see is the mountain of work--which is now almost over!
YaY!
Tomorrow--Friday is the last day. Yay.
I have had a lot of help again this year and I really understand how much teamwork is necessary to pull a three-day conference off.
The agenda was pretty well constructed--but as always--there are last minute changes and adjustments.
I dread conference week every year. It is a lot of work and planning and the execution requires a lot of team work. But mostly it is a lot of work and a lot to keep straight and make sure it looks effortless even though it is a lot of effort.
It is good to reconnect with old friends though.
I guess I should embrace the opportunity to plan and execute the conference--but all I see is the mountain of work--which is now almost over!
YaY!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Weddings and Stuff - Mature Subject Matter
Weddings!
Wow! They are really an event.
I have been to a few, including my own, over time. This past weekend I was honored to be able to attend the wedding of my niece Andrea to a seemingly nice man, Brian. I never really met Brian, nor did I get to know Brian. Chris and I had a good time though, reconnecting with family and friends--mostly family. We remembered how much fun we all have when we get together.
Weddings are a celebration. A really important celebration in the lives of not only those getting married, but those witnesses assembled as well. It is all about the future and the life that two people will forge together.
But I know something about Brian and Andrea that, in retrospect, I really don't need to know nor do I or did I care to know. But it was everywhere at the wedding. I had never thought about it before--although I guess it is at every wedding. But I think our myopic focus on it really misses the importance of the wedding day as it forges forward into the married life.
From statements made about the color of the wedding gown by the pastor to some of the statements made about the couple--it seems everything hinges on (shhh!) sex! Really! I mean, some people were really preoccupied with it.
It dawns on me the level of focus on the the activity of the wedding night is misplaced. I mean--are we celebrating an orgy or the union of two individuals into a new being? Are we all frustrated adults longing for the longings of our youth? Or are we genuinely concerned about the ability of two people we love and care about to succeed as a married couple in a world where the cards are stacked against them.
When does a marriage begin? At the moment of "I do?" Or did it begin when words were spoken and accepted asking to get married? The foundations of a strong marriage are laid well before the walk down the aisle. Already, by the wedding day, the couple has had to learn to deal with stress, and nerves, and things not going right as well as the joys and highs of life. From these beginnings, marriages are forged.
I guess I never really thought about it before, but we are concerned about the wrong things.
It would have been better to focus on their compatibility and willingness to work together in the future as a couple, the process of becoming one; rather than on activities which did or did not occur in the past! Did I really need to know that they couldn't sit closer together that the width of a bible? (It's not that thick standing on edge!) Come on--I hug a lot of people, but I don't marry them. I sit closer than that to perfect strangers when I am sandwiched into an airplane seat.
As long as we continue to be solely focused on the peripheral trappings we will continue to miss the bigger picture: how do we help ensure marriages are full of long-term happiness and team work. Today's world requires married couples to be a team. To be willing to pick up the slack for one of the couple when times are tough and to be able to celebrate victories--beginning with the small ones, when they happen. To focus on the joy of life and not the shortcomings of material possessions.
Congratulations Brian and Andrea. To quote a line from an old science fiction TV show: "Live long and prosper!"
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Niagara Falls Day Trip
The majesty and magnificence of some of the natural wonders of the world continue to awe me-
-even though I've seen them and enjoyed them before.
Who cannot be awed by the sheer volume of water rushing over the falls of Niagara?
Although I experienced the falls from the base aboard the Maid of the Mist on other occasions, it never ceases to remind me of how insignificant I am when compared to the grandeur of the planet and its natural raw power. And beauty. And trust me--I'm no beauty!
The day, however, was idyllic. The sky was generally clear and while cool--it was not cold. We were able to enjoy the first hints of autumn colors on the leaves along the falls with the other visitors.
-even though I've seen them and enjoyed them before.Who cannot be awed by the sheer volume of water rushing over the falls of Niagara?
Although I experienced the falls from the base aboard the Maid of the Mist on other occasions, it never ceases to remind me of how insignificant I am when compared to the grandeur of the planet and its natural raw power. And beauty. And trust me--I'm no beauty!
The day, however, was idyllic. The sky was generally clear and while cool--it was not cold. We were able to enjoy the first hints of autumn colors on the leaves along the falls with the other visitors.
And consider for a moment the Maid of the Mist--the boats that take visitors close to the base of
the falls to enjoy the sheer power and magnitude of the rushing water. Standing on the deck of these small ships in the middle of the falls. It can only be imagined. Although the whole trip lasts only about 20 minutes--start to finish, it seems much longer when you are actually at the falls admiring them.
the falls to enjoy the sheer power and magnitude of the rushing water. Standing on the deck of these small ships in the middle of the falls. It can only be imagined. Although the whole trip lasts only about 20 minutes--start to finish, it seems much longer when you are actually at the falls admiring them.So take time--admire the beauty around you--in your own backyard or where ever you travel. Get off the beaten path (a/k/a interstate) and checkout the sights. There is a lot to see and to enjoy.
I was struck by our conversation in the car--which went something like:
"I cant believe we are going so slow"
"Don't they drive faster?"
"Don't they drive faster?"
"Aren't these old stately homes beautiful?"
"Are we there yet?"
"Does it matter how fast we drive--we are just going to get to the airport and wait!"
We have all become victims of the hurry up and get there philosophy. So what if a 90 mile trip took over two hours with no stops?
The sights along the way were well worth the price of admission.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Monday Musings - October 19, 2009
1. What a season of celebration this is. Birthdays and weddings and anniversaries. Happy Birthday today to Jeremy.
2. Eight hour drive vs one hour flight--you do the math. Who knew that Rochester, NY was so close? Even so, why was I so tired when I got home? All I did was ride in the back like a the self-loading cargo that I am.
3. When traveling, make sure to take time to see the area--and we did yesterday doing a return trip to Niagara Falls, NY. It was a beautiful day.
4. Weddings are one way that families reconnect. It allows everyone to get back together for a while and remember how much we used to see everyone and how busy and separate our lives are now.
5. One more time--why are weekends only two days long? I usually need three or more days to get it all in.
6. Thanks to Patrick and Tina for driving us to and from the airport and retrieving Makayla for us.
7. Two lane roads in Upstate NY are pretty to drive along on a sunny autumn Sunday--but don't plan on getting anywhere in a hurry! The proportion of police to miles traveled is higher in NY than anywhere else I have been in a while. I also noticed a huge driving philosophical difference--in Maryland, drivers drive the speed limit plus five (or ten) MPH. In Upstate NY--they drive the speed limit minus five, UGH!
8. And for my political comment of the week: I meet a lot of people who think the President enacts laws--actually it is the Congress. If we are unhappy about what's happening in Washington--let's change Congress--they pass the laws, raise taxes, and develop flawed health care proposals. BTW--2010 is an election year. Just remember who had control of the Congress (both Houses) when the economic decline started and decided to do nothing to ensure that a Democrat would get elected President! Now they blame the other guys for their intentional lack of action.
2. Eight hour drive vs one hour flight--you do the math. Who knew that Rochester, NY was so close? Even so, why was I so tired when I got home? All I did was ride in the back like a the self-loading cargo that I am.
3. When traveling, make sure to take time to see the area--and we did yesterday doing a return trip to Niagara Falls, NY. It was a beautiful day.
4. Weddings are one way that families reconnect. It allows everyone to get back together for a while and remember how much we used to see everyone and how busy and separate our lives are now.
5. One more time--why are weekends only two days long? I usually need three or more days to get it all in.
6. Thanks to Patrick and Tina for driving us to and from the airport and retrieving Makayla for us.
7. Two lane roads in Upstate NY are pretty to drive along on a sunny autumn Sunday--but don't plan on getting anywhere in a hurry! The proportion of police to miles traveled is higher in NY than anywhere else I have been in a while. I also noticed a huge driving philosophical difference--in Maryland, drivers drive the speed limit plus five (or ten) MPH. In Upstate NY--they drive the speed limit minus five, UGH!
8. And for my political comment of the week: I meet a lot of people who think the President enacts laws--actually it is the Congress. If we are unhappy about what's happening in Washington--let's change Congress--they pass the laws, raise taxes, and develop flawed health care proposals. BTW--2010 is an election year. Just remember who had control of the Congress (both Houses) when the economic decline started and decided to do nothing to ensure that a Democrat would get elected President! Now they blame the other guys for their intentional lack of action.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Maryland Driving: Stories From the Rain Swept Highway
I wonder why Maryland drivers cannot drive in the rain.
It seems that as the little drops of precipitation fall from the sky, the skills of Maryland drivers drops to a negative number.
Examples:
1. Ignore the wet road and continue to drive aggressively to facilitate redecorating your car with an oak tree hood ornament. The flowers in the headlights add a nice touch as well.
2. Become paralyzed with fear and slow to 15 MPH to allow traffic to congregate around you as other, more rational drivers contemplate how to get by with or without causing an accident. Many are contemplating how to force you off the road.
3. Tailgate so that when the driver in front taps their brakes you have no choice but to veer off the roadway into the manicured median strip.
4. While driving a pick-up truck, attempt to rapidly accelerate while going up a clover leaf onto I-95 to facilitate doing a 360 degree turn in the roadway and hoping not to involve any other unsuspecting driver(s) in the ensuing situation as you careen off the road surface--backwards. Is that what they call putting the cart before the horse?
5. While attempting to merge onto the controlled access highway in the rain during rush hour, come to a complete stop at the end of the on ramp to wait for a gap in traffic sufficient to allow entry from a standing start. Wait for a really large gap because the road is wet and you don't want to spin your tires as you accelerate. Wonder why there are so many cars in line behind you. Look confused when other drivers give you animated gestures as they pass you.
It seems that as the little drops of precipitation fall from the sky, the skills of Maryland drivers drops to a negative number.
Examples:
1. Ignore the wet road and continue to drive aggressively to facilitate redecorating your car with an oak tree hood ornament. The flowers in the headlights add a nice touch as well.
2. Become paralyzed with fear and slow to 15 MPH to allow traffic to congregate around you as other, more rational drivers contemplate how to get by with or without causing an accident. Many are contemplating how to force you off the road.
3. Tailgate so that when the driver in front taps their brakes you have no choice but to veer off the roadway into the manicured median strip.
4. While driving a pick-up truck, attempt to rapidly accelerate while going up a clover leaf onto I-95 to facilitate doing a 360 degree turn in the roadway and hoping not to involve any other unsuspecting driver(s) in the ensuing situation as you careen off the road surface--backwards. Is that what they call putting the cart before the horse?
5. While attempting to merge onto the controlled access highway in the rain during rush hour, come to a complete stop at the end of the on ramp to wait for a gap in traffic sufficient to allow entry from a standing start. Wait for a really large gap because the road is wet and you don't want to spin your tires as you accelerate. Wonder why there are so many cars in line behind you. Look confused when other drivers give you animated gestures as they pass you.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
The World is Watching-- World Cup Qualifying
I had a really new experience last evening.
Jeremy and I traveled to RFK Stadium in D.C. (and it was a travel--the usual 30 min trip took over 2 hours because of traffic!) to watch the U.S. Soccer Team play against Costa Rica in the final World Cup qualifying match. I had never watched a U.S. team play in international competition before.
Good news--the U.S. already clinched a World Cup berth by beating Honduras in Honduras on Saturday. So we didn't even need a win to get to South Africa.
Ok--here is the fun part. How many times have you watched a U.S. Team or individual play or participate in a sport on television and heard the chant U-S-A, U-S-A, U-S-A?
I know I have a whole lot.
Better than watching on TV, is to be in the crowd doing the chanting and believing that the louder the crowd chants, the better the U.S. team plays.
Down at field level was Sam's Army decked out in red-white, and blue cheering and when goals were scored celebrating enthusiastically with the best of all banners--the U.S. Flag! How can you not love being there.
And it seemed true last night as the U.S. Soccer Team overcame a two goal deficit to tie Costa Rica 2-2 in the final. The last goal being scored with just about 30 seconds of playing time left and the U.S. Team down a man due to a late injury and no substitutions left. It is the stuff movies are made of.
The rain was falling, the lights burned bright into the night and on the stage rabid supporters of two countries cheered their teams. Sam's Army was a sight to behold. After the game, the members of the U.S. team came over and celebrated with Sam's Army and that was another of the coolest things--they thanked the fans for their support, right on the field after the game.
It was fun! And somehow, we never doubted that the U.S. team would not lose! And they did not lose even when down by a man and with a lot less to play for than the Costa Ricans who needed a win to advance to the World Cup next year in South Africa! The Costa Ricans (a/k/a Ticos) are now playing a two-game playoff (or play-in) against Uruguay for the last spot.
So if you get a chance--go someplace with a lot of other Americans yelling
U-S-A, U-S-A, U-S-A
Enjoy yourself. It surely doesn't happen enough.
Jeremy and I traveled to RFK Stadium in D.C. (and it was a travel--the usual 30 min trip took over 2 hours because of traffic!) to watch the U.S. Soccer Team play against Costa Rica in the final World Cup qualifying match. I had never watched a U.S. team play in international competition before.
Good news--the U.S. already clinched a World Cup berth by beating Honduras in Honduras on Saturday. So we didn't even need a win to get to South Africa.
Ok--here is the fun part. How many times have you watched a U.S. Team or individual play or participate in a sport on television and heard the chant U-S-A, U-S-A, U-S-A?
I know I have a whole lot.
Better than watching on TV, is to be in the crowd doing the chanting and believing that the louder the crowd chants, the better the U.S. team plays.
Down at field level was Sam's Army decked out in red-white, and blue cheering and when goals were scored celebrating enthusiastically with the best of all banners--the U.S. Flag! How can you not love being there.
And it seemed true last night as the U.S. Soccer Team overcame a two goal deficit to tie Costa Rica 2-2 in the final. The last goal being scored with just about 30 seconds of playing time left and the U.S. Team down a man due to a late injury and no substitutions left. It is the stuff movies are made of.
The rain was falling, the lights burned bright into the night and on the stage rabid supporters of two countries cheered their teams. Sam's Army was a sight to behold. After the game, the members of the U.S. team came over and celebrated with Sam's Army and that was another of the coolest things--they thanked the fans for their support, right on the field after the game.
It was fun! And somehow, we never doubted that the U.S. team would not lose! And they did not lose even when down by a man and with a lot less to play for than the Costa Ricans who needed a win to advance to the World Cup next year in South Africa! The Costa Ricans (a/k/a Ticos) are now playing a two-game playoff (or play-in) against Uruguay for the last spot.
So if you get a chance--go someplace with a lot of other Americans yelling
U-S-A, U-S-A, U-S-A
Enjoy yourself. It surely doesn't happen enough.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Talking the Walk
Sunday in church, a real interesting statement was made:
Talk without action is heresy
Action without talk is mystery
I wrote it down so I could remember it.
It goes with some well known phrases:
"Talk is cheap!"
“If you’re going to talk the talk, you’ve got to walk the walk”
"Actions speak louder than words"
“Practice what you preach”
"Walk it like you talk it”
"Put your money where your mouth is"
"Don't let your mouth write checks your body can't cash"
Of course it is a twist on a couple of Bible verses from James:
But would you like evidence, you empty fellow, that faith without works is useless? - James 2:20 (NET Bible)
For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead. - James 2:26 (NET Bible)
But it was the second part of the memory jogger that really hit me--"action without talk is mystery!" Interesting!
So you do something really cool for someone and don't do the second part--we need to tell them why! If we don't tell them why, they are left with a big thank-you but you've missed a valuable opportunity to do something even cooler--tell them who your are working for!
You don't have to puff yourself up with it all, be humble--the likelihood is that they were put in your path for a reason: so you could give them a piece of good news!
We seem to get wrapped up in our society with telling and directing and postulating good ideas--but we are pretty sloppy on the follow through! But when follow through happens, it is OK to make sure the beneficiary of the action knows the why for the action. Don't leave it a mystery! They need to know.
Anonymous deeds are great--if you are doing them for self-aggrandizement reasons. But if you are in the service of someone else (like God?)--humbly talk about it! Give the credit that is due. How else will someone understand the love that is waiting for them? Someone has to tell them!
Talk without action is heresy
Action without talk is mystery
I wrote it down so I could remember it.
It goes with some well known phrases:
"Talk is cheap!"
“If you’re going to talk the talk, you’ve got to walk the walk”
"Actions speak louder than words"
“Practice what you preach”
"Walk it like you talk it”
"Put your money where your mouth is"
"Don't let your mouth write checks your body can't cash"
Of course it is a twist on a couple of Bible verses from James:
But would you like evidence, you empty fellow, that faith without works is useless? - James 2:20 (NET Bible)
For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead. - James 2:26 (NET Bible)
But it was the second part of the memory jogger that really hit me--"action without talk is mystery!" Interesting!
So you do something really cool for someone and don't do the second part--we need to tell them why! If we don't tell them why, they are left with a big thank-you but you've missed a valuable opportunity to do something even cooler--tell them who your are working for!
You don't have to puff yourself up with it all, be humble--the likelihood is that they were put in your path for a reason: so you could give them a piece of good news!
We seem to get wrapped up in our society with telling and directing and postulating good ideas--but we are pretty sloppy on the follow through! But when follow through happens, it is OK to make sure the beneficiary of the action knows the why for the action. Don't leave it a mystery! They need to know.
Anonymous deeds are great--if you are doing them for self-aggrandizement reasons. But if you are in the service of someone else (like God?)--humbly talk about it! Give the credit that is due. How else will someone understand the love that is waiting for them? Someone has to tell them!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
In the Vineyard
One of the highlights of the weekend to Charlottesville was going out into one of the vineyards with the wine maker and discussing the grapes. They were black, and ripe, and oh so sweet. It was Keswick Vineyards.
Anyone who knows me, knows I love wine. We visit a lot of wineries, but few--like almost none, allow you to stroll the vineyards and especially not with the winemaker. It was awesome--and we were so impressed that we joined the wine club so that we have to go back a couple times per year!!
It was really interesting to have him show me how he knows--in addition to all the scientific stuff, when the grapes are really ready to pick. And how to tell when the wines are going to be great. We were talking about the rain and the weather in relation to picking the grapes--they like it a bit dry. I even learned how to tell what color the wine will be by the skin on the grapes.
The wines they make though are oh so good. Chris and I even fancied for a bit about retiring and opening a vineyard! Yeah--me a farmer? I'd rather be scuba diving. LOL.
Oh, but the day was so fun and the weather so good and I really developed an appreciation for Virginia wines.
Grapes are picked and selected by hand! just like in "olden" times. Even Chris got into the harvesting act. The vineyards were just beginning to have their leaves turn and so we got some really cool pictures of the grapes and the leaves and the sky and the sun!
The funniest thing was when we stopped on our way to the tasting center to get some pictures and a pair of dogs came charging at Chris as she was snapping the picture of the red leaved grapes. She got a little panicked because there was a "No Trespassing" sign right where she was standing.
But even so, with a steady hand and a beating heart, like the photographer she is--she got her shot before the dogs devoured her. OK--we later found out that they probably would have licked her to death because they are really nice dogs.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Monday Musings - October 12, 2009
1. I do not understand why schools do not celebrate Federal Holidays! Our schools get Yom Kippur and Rosh Hosanna off, but not Columbus Day or Veterans Day. I think this is a problem.
2. Explain this to me--why do parents of special needs children believe they are entitled to services which rob other children of basic educational needs? I mean--some special needs children seem to get incredible amounts of support, yet the normal children are essentially paying for these services and resources by having to make do with less.
3. My wife really created the perfect birthday present for me with the weekend escape to Charlottesville. Thanks Chris--and good job. I only hope I can be a creative with your birthday.
4. Why do I seem to work harder on holidays than non-holidays? With the help of Patrick and Tina the wood pile is now split firewood, stacked and ready to burn! BTW--I also played a racquetball match today and my back is a mess from everything I did.
5. Nicole and Mike returned from France tonight. Wow. I am so happy for them getting to get a weekend in Paris! I hope you had fun--and I am sure you did.
6. Passport? We don't need no stinking passports. OK--I'm going to get one. Really! 'Cause I want to travel. Look out Bonaire--here I come.
7. What a great month October is--baseball playoffs, football is in full swing, hockey is rolling! Wow.
8. Think about this---the World Series with Los Angeles Dodgers vs the New York Yankees! Joe Torre does NY!!! It could happen unless the Angels save us from another Yankee coronation.
9. Wow it was cold today! Can I move someplace warmer?
10. Holidays. Enjoy them! The seasons seem to move faster and faster--they are a blur. If only we could stop for a minute and hold onto the memories and the relationships we have adn expand them on each holiday.
11. Priorities. Think about it. So many of us have them really messed up. We don;t seem to recognize the importance of family--and family seems to drop lower and lower because they are always there. Strangers even begin to move higher in our priorities than our family. What is wrong with this picture?
2. Explain this to me--why do parents of special needs children believe they are entitled to services which rob other children of basic educational needs? I mean--some special needs children seem to get incredible amounts of support, yet the normal children are essentially paying for these services and resources by having to make do with less.
3. My wife really created the perfect birthday present for me with the weekend escape to Charlottesville. Thanks Chris--and good job. I only hope I can be a creative with your birthday.
4. Why do I seem to work harder on holidays than non-holidays? With the help of Patrick and Tina the wood pile is now split firewood, stacked and ready to burn! BTW--I also played a racquetball match today and my back is a mess from everything I did.
5. Nicole and Mike returned from France tonight. Wow. I am so happy for them getting to get a weekend in Paris! I hope you had fun--and I am sure you did.
6. Passport? We don't need no stinking passports. OK--I'm going to get one. Really! 'Cause I want to travel. Look out Bonaire--here I come.
7. What a great month October is--baseball playoffs, football is in full swing, hockey is rolling! Wow.
8. Think about this---the World Series with Los Angeles Dodgers vs the New York Yankees! Joe Torre does NY!!! It could happen unless the Angels save us from another Yankee coronation.
9. Wow it was cold today! Can I move someplace warmer?
10. Holidays. Enjoy them! The seasons seem to move faster and faster--they are a blur. If only we could stop for a minute and hold onto the memories and the relationships we have adn expand them on each holiday.
11. Priorities. Think about it. So many of us have them really messed up. We don;t seem to recognize the importance of family--and family seems to drop lower and lower because they are always there. Strangers even begin to move higher in our priorities than our family. What is wrong with this picture?
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Jeremy, Goals, and The Baltimore Marathon
A new experience yesterday--actually attending a running event of world class proportions: The Baltimore Marathon.
Wow! I was amazed at the number of people--20,000 runners and over 70,000 spectators all over Baltimore! And it was a sight to behold--all of the people and runners.
And of course our own--Jeremy who ran in the Half Marathin. That would be 13.1 miles for those of you who are trying to figure the distance out..
We went with Nicole and had a great time at the running festival. We watched the start, enjoyed the crowds and Inner Harbor while he ran, and then watched him finish with panache!
Jeremy was the winner--he set a tough goal, trained for it, and completed it! We should all be able to set goals and then have the intensity and mettle to achieve them!
Way to go Jer!
Friday, October 9, 2009
Monroe and Ash Lawn-Highland
So the answer to the question about the 5th President is of course James Monroe.
His home is also near Charlottesville, VA and is very close to Jefferson's Monticello. The home is called Ash Lawn-Highland. James and Elizabeth lived there although due to fire and subsequent rebuilding only part of the original structure survives. The surviving part, interestingly enough, is painted white and you can see that part in the pictures. The not so original part is yellow.
In addition to the Monroe Doctrine, James is credited with saving the originals
of the Constitution and Declaration of Independence when the British fooled the military and attacked Washington instead of Baltimore.By comparison to both Monticello and Montpelier, Ash Lawn-Highland is modest, but still well above the standard for a normal Virginia family of the time.
Many of the furnishings are authentic Monroe or period pieces--but the curator has made some significant deviations which if you are a purist could detract from the historical sense of the visit.
An interesting tidbit--the first White House wedding (although during the period it was known as the President's House) was for Monroe's daughter Maria Hester Monroe Gouverneur (1803–1850) who married her second cousin Samuel L. Gouverneur on March 8, 1820.
Ash Lawn-Highland is owned and administered by The college of William and Mary.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Madison and Montpelier
Continuing in my Charlottesville, VA vacation series. On to President number 4, James Madison.
Chris and I visited the Madison plantation at Montpelier Station, VA and had a very enjoyable afternoon.
I learned two very important things during my visit with the Madisons.
First, how to spell Montpelier! Yeah--that was a toughie for me because obviously I have been mispronouncing the place all these years.
Second, that the correct spelling of James' wife's name is Dolley! (Check it out!)
And adjunct item we learned was that James was reported to be a short as 5'2" tall. Although most historians give his height as 5'4". I did read that his height is listed between 5'2" and 5'6" and that the more a person liked him, the taller his height was recorded.
I was honored to be able to pose with the former President and First Lady. Due to his vertically challenged stature, James is almost always shown seated in the presence of Dolley.
The plantation is a great place to visit. I recommend early in the day--but any really nice day will do. I did enjoy early October. The house has been fully restored but is sparsely furnished. Try not to compare Montpelier to Monticello--it will not work. They are light years apart in terms of historical recreation. But, Montpelier is coming along fast.
You can see the genius of Madison in the construction of the house. Jefferson reportedly called Madison the best farmer he had ever known. And it seems true.
A tour of the house is fascinating, but like so many other places--no pictures! Ugh! There are many outside areas and archaeological places to visit. Additionally, the influence of the Dupont's (subsequent owners of the property to the Madisons) can be seen and the foundation is attempting to account for these changes and in many cases recreate the originals as closely as possible.
The discussion of the enslaved people working for the Madisons and of course Madison's authoring of the Constitution generates some interesting comments during the tours. I find it interesting that we continue to impose a revisionist view of history on things past without truly understanding the times and situation. We need to adopt the idea--that that is he way it was and we cannot fully understand it using our 20th and 21st century reasoning.
Would we do things differently? Don't say yes too quickly without really getting into the period and recognizing what the alternatives were.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Trapped
That's it. It hit me last evening as I was out shopping with Chris. She dragged me out against my will and we were in Macy's where her cover story was that she wanted to return a pair of shoes. But in fact, she wanted to buy me some new shirts because she was tired of looking at me wearing the same t-shirt around the house. Actually, one of about 4 t-shirts that I like.
There I was--in the men's clothing area when I had an epiphany. Not only do I HATE shopping for clothes, but I realized why:
I'm a twenty-something trapped in a fifty-something's body!
I want to wear the hot, young fashions--but I would look ridiculous. You've seen them around--the near fifty-somethings wearing the teenager style shirts and jeans. It is not pretty!
I think my daughter calls it: age appropriate attire or something like that.
While in Charlottesville last weekend we saw a couple adorned in earrings and youthful clothes trying to hide their years of experience. It wasn't an enjoyable sight to behold.
So I should dress my age?
Really?
And just after having a birthday too--no wonder this is still on my mind.
So as I sit here this morning, screaming out at the world because I'm older I take stock of the situation. It is pretty dismal!
I'm actually here at my computer this morning and not playing racquetball because my elbow is sore and I don't know why. I decided, in a moment of incredible rational thought, to give it a rest after my league match was canceled last night. What a concept. I never had elbow problems as a twenty-something and I played racquetball five times per week!
I'm wearing glasses so I can see the computer screen! I have 20/15 vision for anything farther away than eight feet! Used to be able to see up close, too.
I have a sore muscle in my right leg, too! Don't know where that came from!
I was in bed by 10pm last night--not the 1 am of my youth!
Hmmm--then it is true--I am definitely trapped!
I wonder if there is a way out?
Anyone? Ideas?
Yeah, I know--get over it. It happens to us all. Embrace it.
Really? I don't have many options, so I guess I need to embrace where I am and play smarter, not harder. And live smarter, not harder.
There I was--in the men's clothing area when I had an epiphany. Not only do I HATE shopping for clothes, but I realized why:
I'm a twenty-something trapped in a fifty-something's body!
I want to wear the hot, young fashions--but I would look ridiculous. You've seen them around--the near fifty-somethings wearing the teenager style shirts and jeans. It is not pretty!
I think my daughter calls it: age appropriate attire or something like that.
While in Charlottesville last weekend we saw a couple adorned in earrings and youthful clothes trying to hide their years of experience. It wasn't an enjoyable sight to behold.
So I should dress my age?
Really?
And just after having a birthday too--no wonder this is still on my mind.
So as I sit here this morning, screaming out at the world because I'm older I take stock of the situation. It is pretty dismal!
I'm actually here at my computer this morning and not playing racquetball because my elbow is sore and I don't know why. I decided, in a moment of incredible rational thought, to give it a rest after my league match was canceled last night. What a concept. I never had elbow problems as a twenty-something and I played racquetball five times per week!
I'm wearing glasses so I can see the computer screen! I have 20/15 vision for anything farther away than eight feet! Used to be able to see up close, too.
I have a sore muscle in my right leg, too! Don't know where that came from!
I was in bed by 10pm last night--not the 1 am of my youth!
Hmmm--then it is true--I am definitely trapped!
I wonder if there is a way out?
Anyone? Ideas?
Yeah, I know--get over it. It happens to us all. Embrace it.
Really? I don't have many options, so I guess I need to embrace where I am and play smarter, not harder. And live smarter, not harder.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Jefferson and Monticello
Well, I finally got to visit Charlottesville, VA and Monticello. It was well worth the visit and there is so much to do there.
This picture is my favorite--it is of course the famous nickle view (which is the back of the house) but I shot it through some flowers to frame it a bit.
The house is well furnished and really is a testament to Jefferson and the enlightened person he was--as a scientist and a political figure.
The front of the house is very different. Most people don't realize it. As with most places they did not allow pictures inside-which is too bad because there is a lot of neat stuff in there.
The gardens and paths are absolutely beautiful. We thoroughly enjoyed walking around the grounds and looking around at the fascinating things. Of the five historical sites we visited--this one is by far the best and most complete. It is also the most expensive, but well worth the
money.
money.Along the paths, Chris was able to capture this hummingbird doing its routine. The bird stayed in place for quite some time.
I definitely recommend a visit to Monticello--as part of a day or weekend in Charlottesville. Allow at least four hours to fully enjoy the place.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Monday Musings - October 5, 2009
1. It is amazing how quickly a week can go by when you are busy and how long it takes to go by when you want it to be next week.
2. Charlottesville, VA is a rocking town. We had a great time there this past weekend. Wine and history, what could be better.
3. Why it is that when you are having fun, but you need to be somewhere else the time spent doing fun is gone so quickly.
4. The reward for a great weekend in Virginia is really rotten traffic on the way home.
5. Hot air balloons are really neat.
6. Monticello is awesome and so is Montpelier. I can't believe I've lived here so long and only just this weekend got to these historic places.
7. Pop quiz--and the 5th President of the U.S. was? And he is from where? I saw his house and plantation too.
8. Why does a two-and-a-half hour drive today seem as long as a six hour drive a couple years
ago?
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Leaves and Autumn
I just could not believe the number of leaves which fell from the trees and made their way into my pool over the weekend.
It reminded me of the last time we had a major thunderstorm--except--this time no storm.
I began the shut down process last evening and I was reminded this morning as I was taking the pool cleaner out of the pool in 50 degree weather that the days of swimming and lounging on a floatie are over for 2009!
It is time to secure summer and pack it away for the 2010 edition.
It's really rotten though when you think of it, here it is almost October and the pool is closed not to be enjoyed again until May. That is like 7 months away! The agony of it all. The thought of living somewhere the pool can be open year round really appeals to me.
The falling leaves just remind me that I am already behind the power curve on the pool.
On our abbreviated walk with Makayla last evening , Chris and I saw a tree already devoid of leaves. I remarked that they were all in my pool!
But--we are off to Charlottesville this weekend for an Autumn three-day weekend of wine and fun! That should be nice. Except I'll be further behind in my pool closing. Ugh! So much to do, so little time.
Well, I remind myself when I am behind in racquetball that I only need to win the next point. Similarly, I only need to get done today what needs to get done today; looking at the mountain ahead of me will only make me----
a. scared
b. depressed
c. want to run away
d. quit
e. go read a book
f. some or all of the above!
It reminded me of the last time we had a major thunderstorm--except--this time no storm.
I began the shut down process last evening and I was reminded this morning as I was taking the pool cleaner out of the pool in 50 degree weather that the days of swimming and lounging on a floatie are over for 2009!
It is time to secure summer and pack it away for the 2010 edition.
It's really rotten though when you think of it, here it is almost October and the pool is closed not to be enjoyed again until May. That is like 7 months away! The agony of it all. The thought of living somewhere the pool can be open year round really appeals to me.
The falling leaves just remind me that I am already behind the power curve on the pool.
On our abbreviated walk with Makayla last evening , Chris and I saw a tree already devoid of leaves. I remarked that they were all in my pool!
But--we are off to Charlottesville this weekend for an Autumn three-day weekend of wine and fun! That should be nice. Except I'll be further behind in my pool closing. Ugh! So much to do, so little time.
Well, I remind myself when I am behind in racquetball that I only need to win the next point. Similarly, I only need to get done today what needs to get done today; looking at the mountain ahead of me will only make me----
a. scared
b. depressed
c. want to run away
d. quit
e. go read a book
f. some or all of the above!
Monday, September 28, 2009
Monday Musings - September 28, 2009
1. Birthday celebrations which span multiple days are a lot of fun! Especially when they are mostly close friend and family affairs.
2. Football, steaks, grilling, and Sunday afternoons with family--what could be better?
3. The annual pool closing event is at hand! I cannot believe it and I can't even procrastinate! The leaves will overwhelm me if I do!
4. An amazing thing happened on Friday and Saturday--Chris got me into a grocery store on three separate occasions! That never happens! I must be slipping!
5. I am becoming a huge fan of house concerts and getting up close to the performers. They are a lot of fun and the ultra-small venue really allows for a good exchange between the performers and the crowd. And it is a great night/day out with friends.
6. Just to lay it down--yes, I know the Orioles are are attempting to lost 100 games this year--with seven to go they need three wind to only lose 99. Does it really matter? I think they have sewed up being the 28th best team in Major League Baseball for the 2009 season. Although being the 29th best team is within their reach!
7. Futility! It's frustrating!
8. I finished the new Dan Brown book--The Lost Symbol. I recommend it--especially if you liked The Da Vinci Code and Angels and Demons.
9. I noticed the sunrise this morning as I left the club after my racquetball match. It is getting later and later every day.
10. What to know what is funny? Makayla, my dog. Last night she was so tired after playing with Ben (Jeremy's dog) all day that when I went to put her out for the last time before going to bed, she just went up the stairs instead of going outside. I put her on the bed and she didn't move all night and didn't even get up when I left this morning. Why can't she do that on weekends instead of getting up three or four times a night when I want to sleep and then sleep in?
2. Football, steaks, grilling, and Sunday afternoons with family--what could be better?
3. The annual pool closing event is at hand! I cannot believe it and I can't even procrastinate! The leaves will overwhelm me if I do!
4. An amazing thing happened on Friday and Saturday--Chris got me into a grocery store on three separate occasions! That never happens! I must be slipping!
5. I am becoming a huge fan of house concerts and getting up close to the performers. They are a lot of fun and the ultra-small venue really allows for a good exchange between the performers and the crowd. And it is a great night/day out with friends.
6. Just to lay it down--yes, I know the Orioles are are attempting to lost 100 games this year--with seven to go they need three wind to only lose 99. Does it really matter? I think they have sewed up being the 28th best team in Major League Baseball for the 2009 season. Although being the 29th best team is within their reach!
7. Futility! It's frustrating!
8. I finished the new Dan Brown book--The Lost Symbol. I recommend it--especially if you liked The Da Vinci Code and Angels and Demons.
9. I noticed the sunrise this morning as I left the club after my racquetball match. It is getting later and later every day.
10. What to know what is funny? Makayla, my dog. Last night she was so tired after playing with Ben (Jeremy's dog) all day that when I went to put her out for the last time before going to bed, she just went up the stairs instead of going outside. I put her on the bed and she didn't move all night and didn't even get up when I left this morning. Why can't she do that on weekends instead of getting up three or four times a night when I want to sleep and then sleep in?
Sunday, September 27, 2009
My Birthday--2009
Thanks to all who contacted me to wish me a happy birthday--it was great.
Here are some of the highlights of the day:
1:30am - dog wakes up and needs to go out
4:00am - dog can't sleep wakes me up, I move the dog and myself downstairs to the couch to let Chris sleep
6:00am - I hear the grandfather clock chime
6:15am - I hear the chimes again
6:30am - Dog unhappy again, give her more water and food
7:00am - Chris hears me and calls me back to bed, she takes the shift with the dog
9:20am - wake up after sleeping hard and stumble downstairs and talk to Mom on the phone
10:00am - boat concert canceled due to rotten weather (something about small craft advisory on the bay and of course--the rain!)--plan B at a friends house
11:30am - head out shopping to get food for Sunday
1:00pm - nap (yay)
2:45pm - head off to the house concert (former boat concert)
3:10pm - house concert, wine club, fun afternoon/evening with friends
8:30pm - home from the concert
9:30pm - the old people turn in for the night because the restless-dog night before is getting to us
So a sedate, but interesting day.
The band at the house concert was ilyaimy They are very good with a country/folk/modern/new grass sound. I was impressed with their tight harmonies. We had a really good time and we also drank some great wine and ate some awesome food at the concert.
A great birthday! I won't detail gifts because, well, that's a bit conceited. But thanks to all who also gave me very nice gifts.
I will write, though, that I won a prize at the wine club--a book: How to Satisfy a Woman Every Time: and have her beg for more! And on top of that, I learned what a riddler is! (nope--not Batman's nemesis!)
Here are some of the highlights of the day:
1:30am - dog wakes up and needs to go out
4:00am - dog can't sleep wakes me up, I move the dog and myself downstairs to the couch to let Chris sleep
6:00am - I hear the grandfather clock chime
6:15am - I hear the chimes again
6:30am - Dog unhappy again, give her more water and food
7:00am - Chris hears me and calls me back to bed, she takes the shift with the dog
9:20am - wake up after sleeping hard and stumble downstairs and talk to Mom on the phone
10:00am - boat concert canceled due to rotten weather (something about small craft advisory on the bay and of course--the rain!)--plan B at a friends house
11:30am - head out shopping to get food for Sunday
1:00pm - nap (yay)
2:45pm - head off to the house concert (former boat concert)
3:10pm - house concert, wine club, fun afternoon/evening with friends
8:30pm - home from the concert
9:30pm - the old people turn in for the night because the restless-dog night before is getting to us
So a sedate, but interesting day.
The band at the house concert was ilyaimy They are very good with a country/folk/modern/new grass sound. I was impressed with their tight harmonies. We had a really good time and we also drank some great wine and ate some awesome food at the concert.
A great birthday! I won't detail gifts because, well, that's a bit conceited. But thanks to all who also gave me very nice gifts.
I will write, though, that I won a prize at the wine club--a book: How to Satisfy a Woman Every Time: and have her beg for more! And on top of that, I learned what a riddler is! (nope--not Batman's nemesis!)
Friday, September 25, 2009
The Joy of Life
This past Sunday, the message at our church included an interesting thought about life.
Jesus understood the need for joy in our lives. And for the things which bring us joy.
I ran across this anonymous quote about joy:
The great teachings unanimously emphasize that all the peace, wisdom, and joy in the universe are already within us; we don't have to gain, develop, or attain them. We're like a child standing in a beautiful park with his eyes shut tight. We don't need to imagine trees, flowers, deer, birds, and sky; we merely need to open our eyes and realize what is already here, who we really are -- as soon as we quit pretending we're small or unholy.
I distill this all down--joy is our own responsibility. It is the way we individually live and view life and what is around us. Do we see life as a blessing or a curse?
Jesus had a way of taking situations and transforming them. At a wedding he once attended, He saved the reception by providing wine and also helping to ensure the joy of those attending.
Now on the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and his disciples were also invited to the wedding. When the wine ran out, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no wine left.” Jesus replied, “Woman, why are you saying this to me? My time has not yet come.” His mother told the servants, “Whatever he tells you, do it.” Now there were six stone water jars there for Jewish ceremonial washing, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. Jesus told the servants, “Fill the water jars with water.” So they filled them up to the very top. Then he told them, “Now draw some out and take it to the head steward,” and they did. When the head steward tasted the water that had been turned to wine, not knowing where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), he called the bridegroom and said to him, “Everyone serves the good wine first, and then the cheaper wine when the guests are drunk. You have kept the good wine until now!” Jesus did this as the first of his miraculous signs, in Cana of Galilee. In this way he revealed his glory, and his disciples believed in him. John 2:1-11 - NET Bible
While we are each responsible for our joy and our view of the world--sometimes in dire circumstances when we notice that someone outside of the circumstance cares--it does help to reaffirm the joy which is resident within us. Here at a wedding--Jesus did just that for the party afterwards. And no, this wasn't grape juice either--people do not get drunk on grape juice. Jesus was contributing to the celebration and merriment. He was an instrument of joy by protecting the bridegroom from ridicule.
Jesus wants us happy and joyful.
We each need to work to find the joy in life. Chris will tell you that sometimes I have a problem with joy. I am so caught up in what I want to do next or what I think I should be doing that I forget to find joy in what I am doing.
Be joyful! In all things find the joy.
Jesus understood the need for joy in our lives. And for the things which bring us joy.
I ran across this anonymous quote about joy:
The great teachings unanimously emphasize that all the peace, wisdom, and joy in the universe are already within us; we don't have to gain, develop, or attain them. We're like a child standing in a beautiful park with his eyes shut tight. We don't need to imagine trees, flowers, deer, birds, and sky; we merely need to open our eyes and realize what is already here, who we really are -- as soon as we quit pretending we're small or unholy.
I distill this all down--joy is our own responsibility. It is the way we individually live and view life and what is around us. Do we see life as a blessing or a curse?
Jesus had a way of taking situations and transforming them. At a wedding he once attended, He saved the reception by providing wine and also helping to ensure the joy of those attending.
Now on the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and his disciples were also invited to the wedding. When the wine ran out, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no wine left.” Jesus replied, “Woman, why are you saying this to me? My time has not yet come.” His mother told the servants, “Whatever he tells you, do it.” Now there were six stone water jars there for Jewish ceremonial washing, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. Jesus told the servants, “Fill the water jars with water.” So they filled them up to the very top. Then he told them, “Now draw some out and take it to the head steward,” and they did. When the head steward tasted the water that had been turned to wine, not knowing where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), he called the bridegroom and said to him, “Everyone serves the good wine first, and then the cheaper wine when the guests are drunk. You have kept the good wine until now!” Jesus did this as the first of his miraculous signs, in Cana of Galilee. In this way he revealed his glory, and his disciples believed in him. John 2:1-11 - NET Bible
While we are each responsible for our joy and our view of the world--sometimes in dire circumstances when we notice that someone outside of the circumstance cares--it does help to reaffirm the joy which is resident within us. Here at a wedding--Jesus did just that for the party afterwards. And no, this wasn't grape juice either--people do not get drunk on grape juice. Jesus was contributing to the celebration and merriment. He was an instrument of joy by protecting the bridegroom from ridicule.
Jesus wants us happy and joyful.
We each need to work to find the joy in life. Chris will tell you that sometimes I have a problem with joy. I am so caught up in what I want to do next or what I think I should be doing that I forget to find joy in what I am doing.
Be joyful! In all things find the joy.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Napa Cellars Zinfandel 2006 - Review
Let me start by saying this is a great middle of the road Zinfandel!
I was looking for a fruity and spicy wine which was versatile and I believe this wine is it. The wine was the hit of our wine group last Friday evening. Everyone raved about it and we really enjoyed this wine a lot.
Here is what actually makes this wine: it is 86% Zinfandel and 14% petit sirah.
The tasting notes for the wine are:
The wine is dark purple and opaque in the glass. The nose is luscious and reveals intense, ripe berries, candied strawberry preserves and cinnamon spice. The palate follows with juicy, rounded fruit flavors that mingle with layers of warm, supple tannins leading to a long, plush finish.
Great on its own and perfect with barbeque, try pairing the wine with Baby Back Ribs or Gourmet Pulled-Pork Sandwiches garnished with sweet and spicy coleslaw.
RECOMMENDATION: Get this wine. At about $22 a bottle it is not inexpensive, but it is well worth the price.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
The Passing of Summer: A Day of Mourning
Yesterday was the official start of Autumn--the Autumnal Equinox (at least here in the Northern Hemisphere--Oh to be in Australia right now!)
Yes on Sept 22, 2009 at 5:18 P.M. EDT the sun appeared to cross the equator from north into the south! Of course the sun really didn't move, it all has to do with the earth and rotation and inclination and all kinds of space-related stuff. It was the equinox though. Day and night were of near equal length across the globe.
I had already noticed that darkness has arrived to greet me in the morning as I set off to work! Now the calendar agrees with my perception of the changing seasons.
In honor of the passing of Summer yesterday, I wore black! I was in mourning. It gave my co-workers something to chuckle about.
I took part of the day to reflect on the Summer which had just passed and I felt it was an active, exciting, joyful summer of fun. I will definitely hold on to the memories of parties around the pool, vacationing in Florida and especially diving the Vandenberg, relaxing around the house, weeding the garden, mowing the lawn--which really looked good this year, training Makayla (she needs a lot more), celebrating anniversaries, and dining/partying/drinking/vacationing with friends.
Next summer will be awesome, too. If only it were longer so we could do more.
Now we are in birthday season, it kicked off yesterday as Mike changed decades. We have numerous birthdays between now and April which will keep us busy celebrating life as we progress through the season of darkness.
I guess it works out kinda nice that we celebrate the lives of each of our family members as we transition through Autumn to Winter and finally back to Spring. If keeps us thinking of life rather than dwelling on the darkness.
So it is off with the black and on with the orange and red--the colors of the leaves as they don their party costumes and prepare the world for one last celebration before the cold and snow arrives signalling the season of sleep.
(When am I going to close the pool??? Ugh--I hope the leaves hold off their partying a couple weeks. Who can I speak to about that?)
Yes on Sept 22, 2009 at 5:18 P.M. EDT the sun appeared to cross the equator from north into the south! Of course the sun really didn't move, it all has to do with the earth and rotation and inclination and all kinds of space-related stuff. It was the equinox though. Day and night were of near equal length across the globe.
I had already noticed that darkness has arrived to greet me in the morning as I set off to work! Now the calendar agrees with my perception of the changing seasons.
In honor of the passing of Summer yesterday, I wore black! I was in mourning. It gave my co-workers something to chuckle about.
I took part of the day to reflect on the Summer which had just passed and I felt it was an active, exciting, joyful summer of fun. I will definitely hold on to the memories of parties around the pool, vacationing in Florida and especially diving the Vandenberg, relaxing around the house, weeding the garden, mowing the lawn--which really looked good this year, training Makayla (she needs a lot more), celebrating anniversaries, and dining/partying/drinking/vacationing with friends.
Next summer will be awesome, too. If only it were longer so we could do more.
Now we are in birthday season, it kicked off yesterday as Mike changed decades. We have numerous birthdays between now and April which will keep us busy celebrating life as we progress through the season of darkness.
I guess it works out kinda nice that we celebrate the lives of each of our family members as we transition through Autumn to Winter and finally back to Spring. If keeps us thinking of life rather than dwelling on the darkness.
So it is off with the black and on with the orange and red--the colors of the leaves as they don their party costumes and prepare the world for one last celebration before the cold and snow arrives signalling the season of sleep.
(When am I going to close the pool??? Ugh--I hope the leaves hold off their partying a couple weeks. Who can I speak to about that?)
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Grace: Your Grace is Enough, Because it Makes Life not Fair
Over the course of the past week, I have been hit with the idea of grace a number of times.
In church, Sunday, we sang a song which I really get into and which has the phrase--"Your grace is enough for me"
Chris Tomlin sings the song, but it is written by Matthew Maher. Some of the lyrics and the refrain are as follows:
Here's the thing. Do we really believe this? Do we understand that grace really is enough?
Ephesians 2:8 from the Amplified Bible lays down the explanation this way:
For it is by free grace (God's unmerited favor) that you are saved (delivered from judgment {and} made partakers of Christ's salvation) through [your] faith. And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [of your own doing, it came not through your own striving], but it is the gift of God;
I mean I was really struck by the idea of Grace--God's grace--not the stylized prayer we repeat at the beginning of a meal. But true God's grace.
What was so weird was that flying back from Denver last week, I was listening to another song on my Ipod with grace in it.
"Be My Escape" performed by Relient K--
And that's really it isn't it? Grace makes life not fair!
We deserve death! But through grace, God provides us with life.
Some people work their whole lives and miss this important point--you cannot buy or work your way into heaven. It is through God's grace that He provides a place for you. We don't deserve it, we can't pay for it--yet it is ours.
We are free through God's grace, yet we still live as if we are in chains and are prisoners.
Be joyful--because grace makes us free and is more than enough. We can't earn it, because if we could earn it, we would cheapen it. It is God's gift to each of us--all we need do is accept it.
In church, Sunday, we sang a song which I really get into and which has the phrase--"Your grace is enough for me"
Chris Tomlin sings the song, but it is written by Matthew Maher. Some of the lyrics and the refrain are as follows:
Great is Your faithfulness oh God
You wrestle with the sinner's heart
You lead us by still waters and to mercy
And nothing can keep us apart
So remember Your people
Remember Your children
Remember Your promise Oh God
Your grace is enough
Your grace is enough
Your grace is enough for me
Here's the thing. Do we really believe this? Do we understand that grace really is enough?
Ephesians 2:8 from the Amplified Bible lays down the explanation this way:
For it is by free grace (God's unmerited favor) that you are saved (delivered from judgment {and} made partakers of Christ's salvation) through [your] faith. And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [of your own doing, it came not through your own striving], but it is the gift of God;
I mean I was really struck by the idea of Grace--God's grace--not the stylized prayer we repeat at the beginning of a meal. But true God's grace.
What was so weird was that flying back from Denver last week, I was listening to another song on my Ipod with grace in it.
"Be My Escape" performed by Relient K--
I’m giving up on doing this alone now
Cause I’ve failed and I’m ready to be shown how
He’s told me the way and I’m trying to get there
And this life sentence that I’m serving
I admit that I’m every bit deserving
But the beauty of grace is that it makes life not fair
And that's really it isn't it? Grace makes life not fair!
We deserve death! But through grace, God provides us with life.
Some people work their whole lives and miss this important point--you cannot buy or work your way into heaven. It is through God's grace that He provides a place for you. We don't deserve it, we can't pay for it--yet it is ours.
We are free through God's grace, yet we still live as if we are in chains and are prisoners.
Be joyful--because grace makes us free and is more than enough. We can't earn it, because if we could earn it, we would cheapen it. It is God's gift to each of us--all we need do is accept it.
Your grace is enough because the beauty of grace is that it makes life not fair!
Monday, September 21, 2009
Monday Musings - September 21, 2009
1. Sunny and cool weekends portend Autumn's arrival even before the calendar officially says it is here. Sad isn't it.
2. I looked up into the pre-dawn sky the other morning and was shocked to see the constellation Orion--a winter constellation. While Orion is one of my favorite constellations, I really look more forward to not seeing it in the Springtime rather that its inaugural appearance during the late summer.
3. Saturday morning, 9AM --- on the soccer field with Ethan. Smiling at Jax, and talking to Mike and Nicole. If it gets much better than that, I'm not sure what it could be.
4. Do you know what it is when there are two keeshonden staying at the house? A pair-o-kees!
5. So answer me this--If I am such a crazed fool for summer, why did I attend a pre-season NHL hockey game while I was in Denver last week? I can't even skate!
6. Sports is tougher on the fans than the players I am convinced. Chris was a wreck because Dallas couldn't beat NY last night. Me, I'm used to cheering for a loser--just look at the O's who are still trying to avoid a 100 loss season (they still need 3 wins of 13 remaining games) and got swept by the Red Sox this weekend. At least the Ravens won!
7. I am still undecided about travel returning from a conference, when the conference is over late. Should I fly back the same night and get back home sometime after 1AM, or spend the night and fly home leisurely on the next day? I don't like either option. What is choice C?
2. I looked up into the pre-dawn sky the other morning and was shocked to see the constellation Orion--a winter constellation. While Orion is one of my favorite constellations, I really look more forward to not seeing it in the Springtime rather that its inaugural appearance during the late summer.
3. Saturday morning, 9AM --- on the soccer field with Ethan. Smiling at Jax, and talking to Mike and Nicole. If it gets much better than that, I'm not sure what it could be.
4. Do you know what it is when there are two keeshonden staying at the house? A pair-o-kees!
5. So answer me this--If I am such a crazed fool for summer, why did I attend a pre-season NHL hockey game while I was in Denver last week? I can't even skate!
6. Sports is tougher on the fans than the players I am convinced. Chris was a wreck because Dallas couldn't beat NY last night. Me, I'm used to cheering for a loser--just look at the O's who are still trying to avoid a 100 loss season (they still need 3 wins of 13 remaining games) and got swept by the Red Sox this weekend. At least the Ravens won!
7. I am still undecided about travel returning from a conference, when the conference is over late. Should I fly back the same night and get back home sometime after 1AM, or spend the night and fly home leisurely on the next day? I don't like either option. What is choice C?
Friday, September 18, 2009
People you meet along the way
I've been at a conference this week in Denver. I was reminded, as I reestablished ties with some friends and many acquaintances that each person we meet and interacts with leaves a part of themselves with you.
Likewise, we leave a part of ourselves with each person we meet.
Sometimes we leave a good part. Something witty or intelligent. But I also know that I have left some pretty scathing parts of myself with those unfortunate enough to have crossed my path in a negative way.
I'm not proud of that. It just happens sometimes and I have to work hard not to allow my emotions to boil over.
OK maybe I got a bit exercised at one point during the conference. But fortunately I stopped short of delivering a scathing fire-breathing monologue. (Yes I have been known to do that on occasion)
I asked myself: is it worth it and will I achieve my intended result. When the answer to both was no, I dismounted my stallion of "righteous intent" and began to work more calmly within the system to make my point.
I think I left those in attendance with a better, rather than worse piece of myself.
Bob Doan
Elkridge, MD
Sent from My Blackberry
Likewise, we leave a part of ourselves with each person we meet.
Sometimes we leave a good part. Something witty or intelligent. But I also know that I have left some pretty scathing parts of myself with those unfortunate enough to have crossed my path in a negative way.
I'm not proud of that. It just happens sometimes and I have to work hard not to allow my emotions to boil over.
OK maybe I got a bit exercised at one point during the conference. But fortunately I stopped short of delivering a scathing fire-breathing monologue. (Yes I have been known to do that on occasion)
I asked myself: is it worth it and will I achieve my intended result. When the answer to both was no, I dismounted my stallion of "righteous intent" and began to work more calmly within the system to make my point.
I think I left those in attendance with a better, rather than worse piece of myself.
Bob Doan
Elkridge, MD
Sent from My Blackberry
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Monday Musings on Thursday - September, 17, 2009
Today, since I missed Monday--some musings about traveling
1. Traveling is at the same time fun, boring, exhausting, and hard. It all depends on where you are in the trip.
2. Being there is a lot better than getting there.
3. If the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, how long will it take me to get to the last step?
4. Some say it's not the destination, it is the journey. Yeah, just think about it, racing to the airport--to wait. Charging down the jet ramp to get to your seat--to wait. Getting to your destination and taking the bus to the car rental counter--to wait. Heading off in the rental car to the hotel and getting stuck in rush hour traffic--to wait. Maybe it's not a journey at all but an exercise in waiting.
5. Traveling alone is the pits. Turns out, I don't like eating out alone.
6. I miss my _____________ (fill in the blank with any of the following)
a. wife
b. dog
c. morning cup of coffee
d. newspaper
e. evening wine and cheese with the wife on the back deck
f. O's game because the sling box isn't set up right on my computer
g. speed-zone pace of life
h. 0530 racquetball game
7. I'm in Denver and the mountains are pretty--but they are a long way away.
8. Why do they always have conferences when the major league baseball teams are out of town?
9. Are the Avalanche playing tonight? Turns out they are! Maybe I'll do a hockey pre-season game. Yes--it is Hockey season almost! Who needs the NFL!!!!! With their uber-expensive tickets and poor fan support and TV time-outs?
1. Traveling is at the same time fun, boring, exhausting, and hard. It all depends on where you are in the trip.
2. Being there is a lot better than getting there.
3. If the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, how long will it take me to get to the last step?
4. Some say it's not the destination, it is the journey. Yeah, just think about it, racing to the airport--to wait. Charging down the jet ramp to get to your seat--to wait. Getting to your destination and taking the bus to the car rental counter--to wait. Heading off in the rental car to the hotel and getting stuck in rush hour traffic--to wait. Maybe it's not a journey at all but an exercise in waiting.
5. Traveling alone is the pits. Turns out, I don't like eating out alone.
6. I miss my _____________ (fill in the blank with any of the following)
a. wife
b. dog
c. morning cup of coffee
d. newspaper
e. evening wine and cheese with the wife on the back deck
f. O's game because the sling box isn't set up right on my computer
g. speed-zone pace of life
h. 0530 racquetball game
7. I'm in Denver and the mountains are pretty--but they are a long way away.
8. Why do they always have conferences when the major league baseball teams are out of town?
9. Are the Avalanche playing tonight? Turns out they are! Maybe I'll do a hockey pre-season game. Yes--it is Hockey season almost! Who needs the NFL!!!!! With their uber-expensive tickets and poor fan support and TV time-outs?
Monday, September 14, 2009
I saw an Eagle
I had never before seen a Bald Eagle, our national symbol, in the wild. I wish I had been fast enough to get a picture of it.
Yet--during our vacation to Florida driving from the Merritt's Island National Wildlife Preserve I saw one perched proudly upon a tall pole.
It was big! And I was surprised at seeing the bird--even though I knew they lived in the area.
I almost didn't believe it and for some reason I was really excited.
It is really amazing what we can begin to see when we actually open our eyes and notice the world around us. I am one of the worst at blindly walking though life--and I know I miss a lot going on around me. Call it self-absorbed or something, but essentially I just block out the part of the world I am not, at that moment interested in.
I need to be more aware of what is going on around me.
Not to zone out. Maybe life will become more interesting.
Yet--during our vacation to Florida driving from the Merritt's Island National Wildlife Preserve I saw one perched proudly upon a tall pole.
It was big! And I was surprised at seeing the bird--even though I knew they lived in the area.
I almost didn't believe it and for some reason I was really excited.
It is really amazing what we can begin to see when we actually open our eyes and notice the world around us. I am one of the worst at blindly walking though life--and I know I miss a lot going on around me. Call it self-absorbed or something, but essentially I just block out the part of the world I am not, at that moment interested in.
I need to be more aware of what is going on around me.
Not to zone out. Maybe life will become more interesting.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Another Rainy Day? No, not Really!
I was surprised as I woke up this morning.
It was raining. It was raining hard--and constant.
I was wholly unprepared for the rain and what it meant for the traffic and the day.
I'm still suffering over the end of summer--and I came to the realization yesterday that I probably would not be spending any more time in the pool before I closed it for the winter since the temperatures had dropped so low.
So many people hate rain. But as i was discussing with Chris on the way to work this morning--I love rain and being rained on. I guess it comes from the sense of renewal that goes with the rain.
Even the Bible speaks of rain in this way--
“I will send rain for your land in its season, the autumn and the spring rains, so that you may gather in your grain, new wine, and olive oil. I will provide pasture for your livestock and you will eat your fill.” (Deut 11:14-15 - NET Bible)
And we definitely are having the autumn rains right now.
Today, though, I also had a different and separate view of the rain. I saw it as tears falling upon our land. Tears of the martyrs of September 11th, 2001. Tears, reminding us that the fight against tyranny and chaos, and the forces of darkness is not complete, nor probably will it ever 
be complete.
be complete.We must constantly be on guard and against those forces that would drag us into darkness--and the rain, the tears of those who perished remind us, the ones who remain, that there is so much more to do until we can really live in peace.
So today wasn't just another rainy day. But a somber day of remembrance where we can rekindle the flames of patriotism and passion which so often become dim in our souls as we fight amongst ourselves about things like health care and the economy.
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