Happy New Year

Wishing my friends a Happy New Year!

I will be gone for a few days enjoying some much needed relaxation. There is plenty of archive material to read here and if that bores you, there's plenty o' links to fulfill your reading needs.

Happy New Year!

"Every man should be born again on the first day of January. Start with a fresh page. Take up one hole more in the buckle if necessary, or let down one, according to circumstances; but on the first of January let every man gird himself once more, with his face to the front, and take no interest in the things that were and are past." ~Henry Ward Beecher

A Year in Review

There are many traditions and history surrounding the celebration of New Years Day. Food seems to be the popular choice for many as its believed that certain foods bring you luck. These certain foods involve cabbage, beans, black-eyed peas or simply a pot of homemade vegetable soup. Whatever your "luckiest" food tends to be, make sure to indulge a plenty New Years Day. Why indulge you ask? Simple, so you can honor your resolution to lose weight.

New Years eve can be considered the greatest party of the year. Naturally because its the last party of the year but more importantly, it brings forth a new year. Whether you stay at home and watch the festivities on Times Square or venture into the frenzy of festivities at your local bar of preference, a good time is awaiting. I find it amazing that no matter where I am, I'm always in the company of friends.

And singing...Oh my goodness. Nothing like a chorus of drunks singing Auld Lang Syne. The song, "Auld Lang Syne," playing in the background, is sung at the stroke of midnight in almost every English-speaking country in the world to bring in the new year. At least partially written by Robert Burns in the 1700's, it was first published in 1796 after Burns' death. Early variations of the song were sung prior to 1700 and inspired Burns to produce the modern rendition. An old Scotch tune, "Auld Lang Syne" literally means "old long ago," or simply, "the good old days."

This years resolution is quite simple. I decided since my list was rather long and somewhat boring(and trivial to most people), I am making a general resolution. My resolution this year is to live a better life. That resolution seems to cover all the topics of resolutions and keeps it simple.

I also take time each year to review the things I'm thankful for. Years past has been materialistic things and family along with friends. This years I've trimmed the list to just family and friends. As the old saying goes, "There's only two things in life you are required to do; Pay taxes and die." As many of you know, I almost completed the circle of requirements this past September. I realized my own mortality is real and at any moment can be delivered without just cause or warning. I also found that its not always materialistic things that make our lives more comfortable. Its the people you surround yourself with that really determines how comfortable your life can be. While my life hasn't been all rainbows and butterflies, its been my family and friends that help me navigate through my tribulations. And its been my family and friends that have carried me on their shoulders these past few months. Whether they've not realized it or I've not told them, its being said now.

I am thankful for being allowed a second chance to see my son grow into a fine young man someday. I know I whine and rant about his behavior sometimes, but I'd not trade one second for immortality. Many have told me he is the likeness through and through of his Dad. I wish I could see that but I'm not going to debate the subject. His love is never-ending and his compassion for those who are less fortunate, whether by financial or health, is immense.

I'm also thankful for having the second chance to see that my wife receives the love she deserves. And thats all I have to say about that...

Folks...someone asked me recently what I meant when I stated, "I see things in a different perspective now". I've always had the ability to look from the outside in, even relating to my own scenarios. So I'm not surprised that this person found the statement a little bewildering. I can remove myself and analyse the situation and state what others cannot see. Sometimes my statements compound the problem because I forget that open minds don't jive well with closed minds. I've struggled for many weeks trying to compose an effective explanation. I've since relinquished all hopes of ever composing such an explanation. However, I recall a scene from a TV Sitcom that brings to light this newfound perspective. The Mary Tyler Moore Show episode where Ted Baxter, played by Emmy Award Winner Ted Knight, suffered a severe heart attack. Upon his return to the News Station, he was wandering about when he comes screaming into the newsroom proclaiming the video newsreel of the century was right outside the window. As everyone scrambled to view the scene, he proclaimed that everyone should look at the sunset...he'd never seen one quite as beautiful as before.

I look at things from a simplistic viewpoint now. I try to cherish the simpler things life has to offer.

This is Ted Baxter reporting from the Newsroom of WDZD...Goodnight and Good News!

Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated. ~Confucius

Woohoo...4 Day Weekend!

Wheeeew! What a 4 day weekend! I looked forward to work today just so I could rest. Last Saturday was spent shopping and folks, I set a new record. I was done a day BEFORE Christmas Eve. Yes...I know its tough to believe but its true. And truthfully, the shopping crowd wasn't all the bad. I think the longest check-out line wait was 15 minutes. We even found a few bargains that a couple of weeks ago would've been expensive.

Christmas Eve we spent at my parents. And we had our traditional Christmas Eve dinner. This tradition started back when I was a kid and has continued on even after the passing of Grandma. Every year we have chili. Yes....you read that correctly, we have chili. Easy to make, everyone likes and hardly a drop is left from the pot. Dessert consists of homemade fruit salad and homemade cookies. And of course my favorite cookie of all, no-bake cookies. Ok, a Google search of no-bake cookies has enlightened me of the many varities. Hmmm...chocolate oatmeal drop cookies might be a better explanation. I left the table after my hunger was satisfied and my sweet-tooth appeased. Stoked with plenty of sugar energy, it was time to open presents. It's amazing how we left with more then we brought yet nobody had to ride atop the vehicle. We wouldn't want any of the presents to get ruined, now would we?

Do you have a family tradition for Christmas dinner?

Merry Christmas to my Blog Friends

Wishing you and yours a Christmas full of Love and Happiness.
May your wishes come truth this Holiday Season.
May God bless and keep you always.
May the Joy and Peace of Christmas
Be with you now and through the New Year.

Help

engtech

Ok folks...I've found a new link, the above link, and I'm puzzled. No no no...I'm not puzzled by the site. I'm puzzled where it fits into my grand scheme of link sections. Obviously it's not a Military or Cooking site, so that counts those out. It sort of fits the Blogging Helpful Hints section and I don't think it really fits the Link Compilation.

So I am asking my daily readers(the 1 or 2 of you)to submit your ideas on exactly how I should display this link on my site.

And please visit the site in question...it's worth the "techie" reading.

Thursday Meme

Shamelessly stolen from DNR by Dragon and MrsJ so I borrowed it. That makes me an accessory not the actually participant, right? Receiving stolen goods...

Tagging anyone who actually reads all my bolded items. Tag your it!

Rules – copy the list and bold face the items you’ve done. Wait for some comments then answer the questions.


01. Bought everyone in the bar a drink
02. Swam with wild dolphins
03. Climbed a mountain
04. Driven anything over 100 MPH
05. Been inside the Great Pyramid
06. Held a tarantula
07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
08. Said “I love you” and meant it
09. Hugged a tree
10. Bungee jumped
11. Visited Paris
12. Watched a lightning storm at sea
13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise
14. Seen the Northern Lights
15. Gone to a huge sports game
16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa
17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
18. Touched an iceberg
19. Slept under the stars
20. Changed a baby’s diaper
21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon
22. Watched a meteor shower
23. Gotten drunk on champagne
24. Given more than you can afford to charity
25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
27. Had a food fight
28. Bet on a winning horse
29. Asked out a stranger
30. Had a snowball fight
31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
32. Held a lamb
33. Seen a total eclipse of the moon.
34. Ridden a roller coaster
35. Hit a home run
36. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking
37. Adopted an accent for an entire day
38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment
39. Had two hard drives for your computer
40. Visited all 50 states
41. Taken care of someone who was drunk
42. Have amazing friends
43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country
44. Watched wild whales
45. Stolen a sign
46. Backpacked in Europe
47. Taken a road-trip
48. Gone rock climbing
49. Midnight walk on the beach
50. Gone sky diving
51. Visited Ireland
52. Been heartbroken longer than you were actually in love
53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger’s table and had a meal with them
54. Visited Japan
55. Milked a cow
56. Alphabetized your CDs
57. Pretended to be a superhero
58. Sung karaoke
59. Lounged around in bed all day
60. Played touch football
61. Gone scuba diving
62. Kissed in the rain
63. Played in the mud
64. Played in the rain
65. Gone to a drive-in theater
66. Visited the Great Wall of China
67. Started a business
68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken
69. Toured ancient sites
70. Taken a martial arts class
71. Played D&D for more than 6 hours straight
72. Gotten married
73. Been in a movie
74. Crashed a party
75. Gotten divorced
76. Gone without food for 5 days
77. Made cookies from scratch
78. Won first prize in a costume contest
79. Ridden a gondola in Venice
80. Gotten a tattoo
81. Rafted the Snake River
82. Been on television news programs as an “expert”
83. Got flowers for no reason
84. Performed on stage
85. Been to Las Vegas
86. Recorded music
87. Eaten shark
88. Kissed on the first date
89. Gone to Thailand
90. Bought a house
91. Been in a combat zone
92. Buried one/both of your parents
93. Been on a cruise ship
94. Spoken more than one language fluently
95. Performed in Rocky Horror
96. Raised children
97. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour
99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country
100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
102. Sang loudly in the car, and didn’t stop when you knew someone was looking
103. Had plastic surgery
104. Survived an accident that you shouldn’t have survived
105. Wrote articles for a large publication
106. Lost over 100 pounds
107. Held someone while they were having a flashback
108. Piloted an airplane
109. Touched a stingray
110. Broken someone’s heart
111. Helped an animal give birth
112. Won money on a T.V. game show
113. Broken a bone
114. Gone on an African photo safari
115. Had a facial part pierced other than your ears
116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol
117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild
118. Ridden a horse
119. Had major surgery
120. Had a snake as a pet
121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
122. Slept for more than 30 hours over the course of 48 hours - Good Drugs
123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. states
124. Visited all 7 continents
125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
126. Eaten kangaroo meat
127. Eaten sushi
128. Had your picture in the newspaper
129. Changed someone’s mind about something you care deeply about
130. Gone back to school
131. Parasailed
132. Touched a cockroach
133. Eaten fried green tomatoes
134. Read The Iliad - and the Odyssey
135. Selected one “important” author who you missed in school, and read
136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
137. Skipped all your school reunions
138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
139. Been elected to public office
140. Written your own computer language
141. Thought to yourself that you’re living your dream
142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
143. Built your own PC from parts
144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn’t know you
145. Had a booth at a street fair
146. Dyed your hair
147. Been a DJ
148. Shaved your head
149. Caused a car accident
150. Saved someone’s life

Military Monday

Back on Novemeber 1st, I posted about LCPL Joshua Ryan Bleill. LCPL Bleill is making tremendous progress and his sprits and attitude are high. Stop by and check on his progress.

As a member of the Patriot Guard, I'm constantly on the lookout for posts concerning missions. Just so happens that two of my daily reads posted about their experiences. Please visit Chromed Curses as she describes her first mission. And go visit DNR who portrays his 21st and 22nd mission. You'll see the similarities between the newcomer and the veteran.

And as always, I try and find interesting reading material that captivates the audience. In following the Military Monday theme today, I invite you to read This is Your War II. Sunday's post gives a unique perspective and I found it intriguing as I related in a non-military sort of way. I distinctly remember catching this moment during my first viewing. That moment gave me a miniscule understanding of the sacrifice.

The Holidays are upon us and I hope everyone has their shopping done. In typical male fashion, I've yet to start. I may start a day early this year since December 23rd is Saturday.

Public Service Announcement

Here are some notes I've created that I want to share with everyone. These notes are an overview of what it takes to survive the aftermath of a crisis situation, in my respect, surviving a heart attack. I wrote this as a guide for anyone enduring a crisis situation, whether its heart attack, cancer or muscular dystrophy, its still a crisis situation.

Be Patient:
This is good advice for any family member, but it’s hard not to expect someone to switch to healthy choices or lifestyle adjustments overnight. Still, they will do what they will do. The best way to influence them is to tell them and to remind them that their choices affect others lives. If they still choose unhealthy dieting or lifestyle, that’s a chance that you’ll take with dire consequences.

Dietary Needs:
Their diet is a personal decision not worth sacrificing your relationship or marriage. Your spouse, after all, will eat what they want one way or another. Find some cool restaurants that cook within their dietary needs. This will allow for some much needed, and desired, time outside the homestead. Also gives the person a goal to work towards. If your spouse is interested in surviving and thus motivated to eat healthfully, they will be a godsend and make for a relaxing date night.

Find cookbooks with foods they enjoy that pertain to their dietary needs. There’s no reason a person should relinquish their favorite foods. Yes, it obviously won’t taste exactly the same but at least you’ll be enjoying your food.

Sex life:
Have low expectations and consider anything regarding this as a bonus. Sex will be different in some aspects.

Medication:
I currently take 7 tablets every morning and one at night. Talk about a nightmare keeping track of them. So if your spouse takes an abundant amount of medication a pill box is a necessity. There are many different types available so chose the one that works best for them.

Education:
This condition happened to you both. Learn what you can independently and accept that both of you will have a totally different lifestyle. Read not only about the condition but the medications. Medication can sometimes cause side effects and it’s very important to realize the signs so they’re not mistaken for symptoms. Be prepared for mood swings, even if they didn’t have them before. That’s normal. This was/is a life altering event and possibly dredges thoughts of ones mortality. They may be in denial about their physical abilities, the number of medications they need to take, their physical appearances, embarrassment of their condition, etc. It’s not easy. No excuses…it’s just not easy. Be patient.

Medical Care:
Don’t settle for less in this area. Try and surround yourself with excellent health care practitioners. Make sure they know one another professionally and not just a “Yes I’ve heard of him but never met him”. If you’re fortunate, you’ll have a great doctor who understands the role of preventative medicine through diet and exercise, not just surgery and medicine. If she/he doesn’t, find a new doctor. Specialists won’t do much good if your regular doctor isn’t familiar with their practices.

Make sure you have adequate health insurance now. Pre-existing conditions won’t necessarily be covered and could cause a denial of coverage on future medical issues. Be prepared for the bills! This won’t be cheap and can leave a financial devastation.

Trust your instincts with their condition. Whether you’re right or wrong, it’s a decision you may regret later on. If you don’t trust the answer or diagnosis, find a second opinion.

Your Emotions:
They have their own issues to deal with regarding their condition, and how their life will altered. You will have endured many changes and possibly more in the future. It takes a special spouse enduring these changes who will be strong enough emotionally to support you too. Otherwise, that’s what your God, friends, supportive family and professionals are for.

Close family and Friends:
The children will have their own reactions as well as other family members. Make sure you discuss most everything with your children PRIOR to any changes. Regardless if they’re children, teens or adults it’s critical everyone stays well informed. This applies to close family as well. Real friends are there in a crisis. This condition, whether short term or long term, will be a sorting through period for both of you. You’ll be closer to your real friends afterwards, your wannabe friends will either fade away or become background shadows.

Professional, Social, and Family Commitments:
They have a great excuse now and can relinquish those commitments that are either stressing, trivial and only keep those that are really important. You can use this excuse as well, as your spouse needs more attention to work their way through their condition. So many times we overstress and overextend ourselves with activities outside the homestead that we inadvertently cause our condition to ferment into a crisis. Last thing you both need is another condition developing with you!

If your spouse still works, they need allot of rest and downtime after returning. You need to realize the person went from 100 mph to 10 mph overnight. And now it’ll take time to get back to even 50 mph.

Be in good shape:
You will need to be able to do the physical things they aren’t strong enough to do. Including, perhaps, being able to mow the yard, help them in and out of the car and up and down the stairs, etc. Also any of the house chores they normally did you’ll have to assist in picking up their portion. Prepare for this daily with your own exercise routine. Even if its just briskly walking for the mail or around the block. This gives you “Me” time and will help relieve any anxiety or tension.

Holiday Philanthropy

Jay over at Kill the Goat has a very heart felt post. Go read it here first and come back.

Tissues anyone?

Thats one thing I truly love about my missus family. No one at Christmas time ever goes without. Regardless if its a meal or presents all-around, no one goes without. You call and inform us they'll be extra people attending, you're promptly asked names and ages. Then the word goes out for Christmas presents and extra food. One year, in ancient history, the missus and I both gave up all of our presents just so the adults wouldn't go without receiving presents that day. I know what you're thinking, "Oh boy all of your presents...selfish bastard". But honestly, when you limit you're exchange presents to "X amount of dollars" it becomes significant. Now I'm not talking spending obscene amounts of cash on one another. Modest amount and its not on frivilous crap.

And the children...well they got gifts that day as well. It sure warms your heart when a childs face brightens from receiving gifts at Christmas. What could be better then that? Well let me tell you...Christmas shopping the day after spending whatever money you had leftover. Making sure groceries were plentiful, making sure clothing needs were met, making sure everyone all around got something they needed and most of all receiving hugs and handshakes from the recipients. Why did they deserve this VIP treatment? Fire...2 days before Christmas. Didn't even know the family but they were friends of a family member.

And not just because its Christmas. Since I've been apart of this family for over 15 years now, I've participated in this unselfish act more times then I can count on my fingers. There's only three rules that apply to this act of kindness:
1. It only happens once
2. You need to be making an effort
3. Pay it forward
We will all need help once in our lifetime. You're living in a fantasy world behind rose colored glasses if you believe anything different.

So did you venture over and read the other article yet?

Holiday Cheer

What do you get when you cross a reindeer and a pickle?

A Dill Doe!

Thank you. I'll be here all week. Two shows on Saturday. Try the veal; tip your waiters.

Obscure Objects with Names

AGLET - The plain or ornamental covering on the end of a shoelace.
ARMSAYE - The armhole in clothing.
CHANKING - Spat-out food, such as rinds or pits.
COLUMELLA NASI - The bottom part of the nose between the nostrils.
DRAGÉES - Small beadlike pieces of candy, usually silver-coloured, used for decorating cookies, cakes and sundaes.
FEAT - A dangling curl of hair.
FERRULE - The metal band on a pencil that holds the eraser in place.
HARP - The small metal hoop that supports a lampshade.
HEMIDEMISEMIQUAVER - A 64th note. (A 32nd is a demisemiquaver, and a 16th note is a semiquaver.)
JARNS,
NITTLES,
GRAWLIX,
and QUIMP - Various squiggles used to denote cussing in comic books.
KEEPER - The loop on a belt that keeps the end in place after it has passed through the buckle.
KICK or PUNT - The indentation at the bottom of some wine bottles. It gives added strength to the bottle but lessens its holding capacity.
LIRIPIPE - The long tail on a graduate's academic hood.
MINIMUS - The little finger or toe.
NEF - An ornamental stand in the shape of a ship.
OBDORMITION - The numbness caused by pressure on a nerve; when a limb is `asleep'.
OCTOTHORPE - The symbol `#' on a telephone handset. Bell Labs' engineer Don Macpherson created the word in the 1960s by combining octo-, as in eight, with the name of one of his favourite athletes, 1912 Olympic decathlon champion Jim Thorpe.
OPHRYON - The space between the eyebrows on a line with the top of the eye sockets.
PEEN - The end of a hammer head opposite the striking face.
PHOSPHENES - The lights you see when you close your eyes hard. Technically the luminous impressions are due to the excitation of the retina caused by pressure on the eyeball.
PURLICUE - The space between the thumb and extended forefinger.
RASCETA - Creases on the inside of the wrist.
ROWEL - The revolving star on the back of a cowboy's spurs.
SADDLE - The rounded part on the top of a matchbook.
SCROOP - The rustle of silk.
SNORKEL BOX - A mailbox with a protruding receiver to allow people to deposit mail without leaving their cars.
SPRAINTS - Otter dung.
TANG - The projecting prong on a tool or instrument.
WAMBLE - Stomach rumbling.
ZARF - A holder for a handleless coffee cup.

Lurkers Anonymous

Harvey has a great post On Lurking and their respective definitions. While we all agree there are obviously lurkers within the blogging community, Harvey had the courage to speak up and bring into the spotlight this unique syndrome.

The New Age media resource has created this syndrome. Other medias prior to this have all had their resources of viewer/reader methods of popularity. Television has its Nielsen Ratings and the advertisers willingness to dish out huge amounts of cash. Printed media such as newspapers and magazines have their subscriptions to base their reader base. And also, once again, the advertisers willingness to dish out the cash. I'm not exactly sure how radio achieves its rating of listener base but maybe Disgruntled Truck Driver can provide that information.

I rate my own site by two methods. Method number 1 reflects on how I think my wrting and posting are progressing or regressing. Did the post make me laugh, cry or move me(or other faculties best not noted here)in any way, shape or form? Yes, selfishly its all about ME ME ME. I write my blog for me and spend little effort worrying about what others think. We're all entitled an opinion and who am I to say your opinion sucks? As far as I am concerned, if ya don't like my blog don't return. Easy enough... Method number 2 is even simpler...how many hits per day I achieve from readers.

Now what I find interesting is this article on Blogging and Economics and the comments left by readers. And while I'm typing this and your reading this on a Friday afternoon...shame, shame, shame.

And yes I'm a Lurker...and proud of it! In fact, I'm also President of Lurkers Anonymous. Altho I'm not sure how many members belong since we really don't let each other be known to one another. But let me tell you, if I started applying membership fees of $1 a year, I'd be a billionaire.

So if you're a fellow Lurker Anonymous member, please comment and that way I'll know you're still around.

Also...how do you rate your blog site?

Weird...

Warts & All and The Coffee Table have both tagged me with the same meme.

"Here are the rules: Each player of this game starts with the "6 Weird Things about You." People who get tagged need to write a blog of their own 6 weird things as well as state this rule clearly. In the end, you need to choose 6 people to be tagged and list their names. Don't forget to leave a comment that says 'you are tagged' in their comments and tell them to read your blog!"


1. When I eat a meal, I eat one thing till its gone then move on to the next item. Example: I'll eat all my chicken, then eat all my veggie that nite, then eat all my salad.
2. I cannot go to sleep at home until everyone else is in bed. Unless I'm sick or exhausted and pass out.
3. I still enjoy eating black licorice and washing it all down with a glass of milk.
4. I cannot comb my hair until after I've put my shirt on.
5. No one except me is allowed to touch my toes.
6. I've been told "You know things most normal people don't."

And following the rules, here are my six tags:
KeesKennis
Cool Single Mom
Walrilla
Lemonade Stand
Getting to Maybe
Crazy Uncle

Great Christmas Stocking Stuffer

I have toiled many hours searching high and low, browsing the Internets far and wide and spent many sleepless nights worrying if I'd ever create a suitable list for my daily readers. This collection of books happens to hold the record for the shortest written publication known to mankind. And what better time to share this list then Christmas time. Have that someone who always skimps on your present, for let's say the last 10 years, when you always go out of your budget for them? Or maybe you just wanna fill your bathroom with quick reading material so no one loiters? Well here is my collection of great short stories that would make the perfect gift!

French War heroes - Jacques Chirac
How I Served My Country - Jane Fonda
My Beauty Secrets - Janet Reno
How to Build Your Own Airplane - John Denver
My Super Bowl Highlights - Dan Marino
Things I Love About Bill - Hillary Clinton
Things I Cannot Afford - Bill Gates
Things I Would Not Do For Money - Dennis Rodman
My Wild Years - Al Gore
Amelia Earhart's Guide to the Pacific
America's Most Popular Lawyers
Detroit: A Travel Guide
A Collection of Motivational Speeches - Dr. J. Kervorkian
All the Men I Have Loved Before - Ellen de Generes
Guide to Dating Etiquette - Mike Tyson
Spotted Owl Receipes - EPA
The Amish Phone Directory
My Plan to Find The Real Killers - O.J. Simpson
Establishing a Lifetime Friendship - Judas
Skiing for Beginners - Sonny Bono

Have you found any great short story titles? Leave a comment...

Parts are Parts

Ever had your car serviced and find out something interesting?

Today after I dropped my son off at school, I stopped for some gas and coffee. As I was exiting the station I noticed my brakes felt funny. Funny how? Funny as in it made me laugh? No...funny as in I wasn't stopping! I had no brakes, none, nada, zilch. Lucky for me there wasn't anyone coming and I wasn't too far from home. Emergency brakes are a life saver if used correctly in times of emergency. I checked the brake fluid and while it was a tad bit low it shouldn't have caused the brakes to fail. In fact, while applying the brakes the brakes resisted any movement. Not consistent with being low on brake fluid.

I was able to drive to the mechanic without much difficulty although the brakes were touchy. Upon inspection of the brakes, nothing could be found that caused my brake failure. They inspected, cleaned and adjusted the entire braking system so I'm confident its not mechanical related. Maybe its computer related...cars these days are chocked full of electronic gadgets that makes my head spin. What happened to the days when a simple person could work on their vehicle. I remember my '68 Mustang and rebuilding everything excpet the engine. Simple and with allot of hard work anything on that car could be replaced.

Anyway...what I found out interesting? I found out that my rear suspension springs are both broke. And here I thought all this time I needed new struts. The back springs snapped at the base and its been that way for quite awhile, so I'm told. I inspected them and yes they're broke. Cost to repair? Outside my budget at this time but the car has performed for how ever long with broken springs. Whats a few more months?

And here I was joyous of getting my heater repaired just in time for the cold snap.

Saturdays Thought

It sure was cold this morning here at Dazd Central. A chilly 19 degrees with light wind. What a preface to the winter coming. The neighborhood was quiet and a heavy frost covered the ground. This scenic wonder brought back some fond memories, some of which I'll try and share today.

Growing up in a rural community offered many chances to enjoy nature. Winter will always be my favorite season. I grew up sledding down the hills on a runner sled. We later progressed to a plastic roll-out sled. And when money allowed, we had a huge round sled. We always used wax paper and waxed the bottoms for maximum glide across the snow. Our second house we grew up in sat atop a hill. It was a pretty steep slope of about 30 degrees and man could we get those sleds moving. Although it was a short run of 50-75 yards, at the young age of 10 this was daring enough. The next door neighbor lived further up the hill and had a run of 150+ yards and a gentle slope of 20 degress before bottoming out on flat land. Only obstacle was the wooden fence that kept the horses in. But, when the snow was just right a person could scoot underneath this fence as long as you sprawled out on a plastic roll-out. One time we weren't too sure if we could fit since there was more snow. So we convinced my brother, who was 3 years younger, to go first. So after a good running start he headed down the hill and realized 10 feet from the fence he wasn't gonna make it. He tried desperately to stop but to no avail. Thump! And the sled slid out from underneath him and continued its journey downhill. He got up, never said a word and walked home. Mom and dad took him to the hospital to check for a concussion. He had a headache for a few days but was fine other then the cyclops like bruise on his forehead. After that accident, the neighbor put up a fence in that area so us boys could sled and not kill or maim one another.

I'm hoping we get some snow this year. I sure would like to take Lil Dazd sledding this year. Now to find somewhere...

New Links

That's right...I've added new links over there on the right. I figured since I was having a brain fart with composing coherent reading material I'd at least give my readers some new sites to review. And as always, I don't add them unless I think you will like them. Well, that and so I won't lose the links but that's between us, k?

So stop on by and tell them Dazd sent you...although as usual they'll have no idea who I am.

On another note...Old Man Winter is coming to Indiana! Brrrrrrrr...time to officially get the winter apparel out. I'm telling you folks, it sucks being on blood thinners. I'm usually wearing a windbreaker in this weather but this year its all gonna change.

Blank

It's too cold for crickets to be chirping...what would be a wintry equivalent of this?

I've got nothing today.

Monday Thought

I always enjoy the holiday vacations spending time with family. I also enjoy getting back to work and a regular routine. I guess I’m strange in that respect, I always complain about not wanting to work yet when the time comes to return I’m thrilled. This week I’m a little more thrilled to return since I spent 5 weeks off work a bit more then 3 weeks ago.

The company I work for is scheduled to be shut down the week of Christmas. Which would be all fine and dandy if not for one little complication. It’s not a paid shutdown so you have to use vacation time if you want paid. Hence lies the issue…I have no vacation time left. So I’ve told them weekly I’ll work that week, all except Christmas Day, answering the phones, receiving any shipments, etc… All on top of my regular duties. I guess there are always an upside and a downside to every holiday.

How does your employer handle company shutdowns?

Oyster Dressing Award

I trust everyone had a wonderful and fulfilling Thanksgiving. Our day was busy and filled with lots of food. We started our day with my mom and dad. Mom always has great food with allot of it still made from scratch. The one tradition I remember from my younger days is Grandma's homemade oyster dressing with sage. All homemade and always made to perfection. If there was any leftover, I usually was awarded the honor of taking the remaining dressing home. Now my mom has taken control of making sure the oyster dressing is provided on Thanksgiving. Dear grandma passed away many years ago and its with each holiday I celebrate my time with her rather then grieving her passing.

Mom created quite the feast this year. A wonderful smoke flavored turkey took center stage. Not a large bird since there was only 7 this year for dinner. It was succulent and the smoke flavor added a distinct taste. Next came the oyster dressing, homemade noodles, green bean cassarole, sweet potatoes, beets, relish tray and rolls. For dessert, mom made her delicious cranberry salad, homemade fruit salad, pumpkin pie (the missus baked) and pecan pie. There wasn't much leftover this year but I'll dare to say no one left the table hungry.

The dressing still remains a vital aspect of our family tradition. I am still awarded with the leftovers as in the past. That was until my cousin came along...who now covets every last crumb of oyster dressing as much as I do. Although I'm ten years older then him, he still insists the last of the crumbs be awarded to him. However this year was different. There was no civil debate, arm wrestling, game of chess or some other manly competition to decide who had the honor. In fact, the fanfare of me taking the last of the crumbs home went unheralded. You see, he is proudly serving his country over in Iraq. Today I am thankful for him sacrificing his Oyster Dressing Award to allow me and my family to continue to live with freedom and liberty.

And so this day I shall enjoy my leftover oyster dressing while quietly my mind reminisces the competitions of the coveted annual Oyster Dressing Award.

More Turkey Humor

Wishing all of you a Happy Thanksgiving!

Turkey Humor

Who said turkey's weren't intelligent?

Monday Morning Funny

Twenty easy steps to cooking a Thanksgiving turkey!

Step 1: Go buy a turkey

Step 2: Take a drink of whiskey (scotch)

Step 3: Put turkey in the oven

Step 4: Take another 2 drinks of whiskey

Step 5: Set the degree at 375 ovens

Step 6: Take 3 more whiskeys of drink

Step 7: Turn oven the on

Step 8: Take 4 whisks of drinky

Step 9: Turk the bastey

Step 10: Whiskey another bottle of get

Step 11: Stick a turkey in the thermometer

Step 12: Glass yourself a pour of whiskey

Step 13: Bake the whiskey for 4 hours

Step 14: Take the oven out of the turkey

Step 15: Take the oven out of the turkey

Step 16: Floor the turkey up off of the pick

Step 17: Turk the carvey

Step 18: Get yourself another scottle of botch

Step 19: Tet the sable and pour yourself a glass of turkey

Step 20: Bless the saying, pass and eat out

History Project Update...and More Random Thoughts

Results from the Project Fair are in...and Lil Dazd received a First Place Ribbon and an Achievement Ribbon! There's still no word on the report aspect and we are assuming next week we'll find out that grade. You can see his marvelous Parthenon here.

First Place!!!

Yes, I'm proud. Lil Dazd was beaming from ear to ear when I got home. He was running so hard he darn near knocked me over...ribbons in hand. We will proudly display them in his room. Now to find a storage place for the Parthenon.

And for those returning for another post of Disturbed Thursday...I'm fresh out. It was sick and twisted...funnier then all-get-out that the low-life SOB got caught not once but twice! And this Disturbed Thursday won't become a regular posting event...I think.

I heard on todays radio news that the Playstation 3 is set to be released in stores at midnight. And yes, the stories of the diehards from geekdom waiting in lines for hours on end are surfacing. A local store here, which will remain nameless, is telling people in lines they only have 2 Playstation 3's. And there's 4 people in line. Must be some new mathematics I'm not aware of...

Oh wonderful...I went to link another story I found interesting and looky what happens...Blogger and Blog*Spot are unavailable.Blogger and Blog*Spot are unavailable right now. We apologize for this interruption in service.
Details. Blogger is undergoing a scheduled maintenance. It will return within 10 minutes. I'll lose this damn post now...

Ok...I've lost my linky goodness. I'll post more later.

Disturbed Thursday

I have been described as disturbed before...even told "You're not right in the head". But I found this news article not only funny but very disturbing.

DULUTH -- Prosecution of a case involving alleged sexual contact with a dead deer may hinge on the legal definition of the word "animal.''

Hathaway, of Superior, Wis., faces a misdemeanor charge of sexual gratification with an animal. He is accused of having sex with a dead deer he saw beside a road on Oct. 11.

Go read more about this ummm sick and twisted lawyer defense here.

Anyone else find the Assistant District Attorney's name disturbing while attached to the case? Maybe I'm not pronouncing the name correctly...just like I saw this name and chuckled again for the hundredth time: Congressman John Boehner.

Am I correct in these pronunciations or am I phonetically challenged?

"Lawyer Provides Stiff Defense in Deer Assault Case"

Random Thoughts

I suppose I should update my daily readers. I had an echogram a week ago Tuesday and saw the cardiologist yesterday. He claims that there is minimal damage from my heart attack. He said between the 3 echograms I've had he cannot find any signs of damage. He believes I can make a full recovery, or damn near it anyways.

But here's the kicker...I've been having palpatations (sp) and some chest discomfort. And my lower jaw and teeth have been aching...not as bad as the night of the heart attack but still aching. We discussed things for awhile and I finally said, "I want to know everything cos I'm 41 and not ready to give up just yet." After he pondered this statement for what seemed like an eternity, he's decided on further testing.

This Friday I'll have a myoview stress test performed. Here's a link with info. Read this link cos it's pretty self-explanatory. Radiation pumping thru my cardio system...glow-in-the-dark. I'm a little apprehensive having this done. Why you ask? You all heard of the Incredible Hulk and Spiderman haven't you? heh

Then Monday I'll have a heart monitor that I'll wear for 48 hours. I'm not too concerned about this except one thing...do I get to shower with this thingy on or what? If not, not only will I smell awful but I'll be grumpy on top of that!

Also Friday I'm trying to schedule a family doctors appointment. It's my follow up for cholesterol levels and this damn cold is trying to be a sinus infection. Yes I still have the sniffles and stuffiness. Plus I've not seen the family doctor sense this all began with my heart. Mom tells me he's asked her twice now during her appointments.

No word yet on the History Project grade. Hopefully we'll hear something today or tomorrow. If we are allowed another History Project this year...The Roman Colosseum maybe?

All you blogspotters out there...have any of you clicked on the "Your new layout is here" link thingy yet? Does haloscan and bloggroll transfer over? I'm scared to click "ok" for fear of losing things. And just how does one "back-up" their blog anyways? Yea, I have a wordpress site I've created a back-up on. But haloscan didn't transfer either nor did all my pics in my posts. And I never figured out how to add bloggroll either. Email the dazed and confuzed one with any help you can provide. Please???

Ok...gotta scoot...the elevator to the salt mines is leaving!

What I did this Weekend

What took the Greek Empire decades to build, we accomplished in 3 days. Gotta love the world of technology.

My son has finished a History Project for the annual Project Fair. He decided this year to write a report and accompanying scaled model of the Parthenon. We worked tediously this weekend and accomplished our goal. The Project Fair is this coming Tuesday. I'll keep you all posted on the results.

How was your weekend?

Remembering Our Veterans

Before You Go Home Follow this link for a worthy tribute honoring those that served our country with honor and dignity.

What is a Veteran?

On Veterans Day, November 11th, we pause to remember and to honor the men and women who selflessly and bravely served in America’s armed forces to keep our nation strong and our freedoms secure.

Veterans Day traditionally is a day of celebration when communities large and small demonstrate their respect and appreciation for the soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines who have sacrificed so much for the cherished causes of liberty and peace.

This Veterans Day, however, will be a more somber occasion as we pay tribute to not only those who served in past wars, but honor America’s sons and daughters on active duty in Iraq and in the war against terrorism being waged around the world.

Observance of Veterans Day – or Armistice Day as it was known then -- began 84-years ago, in 1919, when Americans gathered to celebrate the first anniversary of the peace agreement that ended the first world war – the war to end all wars.

Today, many wars and conflicts later, we continue this tradition of paying tribute to those who have worn the uniforms of our armed forces. Our servicemen and women have freely given of themselves throughout our history to preserve the precious liberties and freedoms enjoyed today by Americans and people worldwide. We are the fortunate beneficiaries of their vigilance and determination.

The courage of America’s veterans has been passed down from generation to generation. Our veterans have proudly and bravely battled tyranny and oppression in the world wars, Korea, Vietnam, and the Middle East.

And, today, our men and women in uniform once again are at war, bringing freedom to the people of Iraq and standing vigilant against brutal and ruthless terrorists who kill innocent people in their blind hatred of America and our special way of life.

Through their service, today’s veterans have joined a long line of patriots willing to risk all to preserve our freedom and the American way of life.

To the families of others who have made the supreme sacrifice – we extend our heartfelt gratitude, acknowledging we cannot measure the value of the freedoms secured by their supreme sacrifice. Their losses, however, will not be in vain, as our nation will emerge victorious in these wars and the world will be a better and safer place.

We are a nation blessed with an abundance of citizens willing to take up arms to secure, defend and maintain the principles put forth by our forefathers. Since the founding of our nation, nearly 50 million men and women have served America in uniform.

Half of them – some 25 million – are living today. They are our grandparents, parents, sons and daughters, co-workers, friends and neighbors – ordinary citizens who have served in extraordinary ways to preserve the greatness of America.

It is our duty as citizens of this great nation to remember the service of our veterans, their sacrifices and their commitment to America and its citizens. We should do so, not just on Veterans Day, but every day of the year.

That is the least we can do in recognition of the inestimable debt we owe for what they have done for us, and continue to do to make a better and safer tomorrow for generations of Americans, who will enjoy the promise of freedom and happiness as the legacy of the selfless service of countless patriots.

A few years after the end of World War I, President Calvin Coolidge cautioned Americans that “The nation which forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten.” The admonition is as timely today as it was then.

On Veterans Day 2006 let us join together in remembering our veterans and giving thanks for all they have done for us and our great nation. And, let us pray for the safety and well being of our men and women in uniform, and wish them success as they fight for the cause of freedom and peace.

Two little words that mean a lot, "THANK YOU." Remember November 11th is Veterans Day.

"It is the soldier, not the reporter,
Who has given us freedom of the press.
It is the soldier, not the poet,
Who has given us freedom of speech.
It is the soldier, not the campus organizer,
Who has given us the freedom to demonstrate.

It is the soldier,
Who salutes the flag,
Who serves beneath the flag,
and whose coffin is draped by the flag,
Who allows the protester to burn the flag."

Father Denis Edward O'Brien, USMC

What's in a Name?

MrsJ sure does have a way of distracting people while they sling salt from deep within the bowels of the Earth...

Now here is my screen name analysis results:

Although the name Dazed creates the urge to be reliable and responsible, we emphasize that it limits your versatility and scope, tuning you to technical details.

This name, when combined with the last name, can frustrate happiness, contentment, and success, as well as cause health weaknesses in the elimination system, and through worry and mental tension.

Your first name of Dazed has given you a practical, logical, analytical approach to life and a great deal of patience.

You enjoy working at anything of a mechanical or technical nature, and believe that what is worth doing is worth doing well.

When you are interested in a project, you concentrate all your thoughts on it and do not appreciate being interrupted.

This name creates a deliberate and methodical way of thinking and speaking; it takes you time to learn but, once you have mastered a subject, you do not forget it.

Now here is my real first name analysis results:

The name "Thats Me" creates the urge to be creative and original, but we point out that it limits your versatility and scope, tuning you to technical details.

This name, when combined with the last name, can frustrate happiness, contentment, and success, as well as cause health weaknesses centring in the head, and in the stomach and intestinal organs.

Your first name of "Thats Me" has given you a very practical, hard-working, systematic nature.

Your interests are focused on technical, mechanical, and scientific things, rather than interests of an artistic, musical, or social nature.

You have a rather skeptical outlook on life and rather materialistic standards.

In reaching your goals, you are very independent and resourceful, patient and determined.

You can be so very positive and definite in your own ideas and opinions that others sense a lack of tact and friendliness in your manner of expression.

Go check it out for yourself HERE.

Now what I find amazing is how analyzing my real name and my screen name actually produced results that have similarities. And how each name analysis also produced different results that still personify Dazed and yet coincide with my real person. So now I'm wondering if my screen name, which was originally created from humor and suffering, was really created from an unnoticeable presence that directs our decisions. Or is this just some random name analysis that has a few hundred answers randomly selected based upon a lifelong, or centuries long, study of human nature and its reaction to stereotypical surveys.

Regardless, this was an exciting survey for me...to actually see both names generating a synopsis of who I really am.

I must step away from the computer now before someone, namely me, gets hurt.

What Accent Quiz

What American accent do you have? Your Result: The Midland   "You have a Midland accent" is just another way of saying "you don't have an accent." You probably are from the Midland (Pennsylvania, southern Ohio, southern Indiana, southern Illinois, and Missouri) but then for all we know you could be from Florida or Charleston or one of those big southern cities like Atlanta or Dallas. You have a good voice for TV and radio.
The Inland North
The South
The West
North Central
The Northeast
Philadelphia
Boston
What American accent do you have? Take More Quizzes

 

Borrowed from Mrs. J.

Public Service Announcement

I bet my readers didn't know that I'm quite the gourmet cook, did ya? Let it be known I don't normally follow receipes for one simple reason, I lose things constantly especially my memory. I mix a little of this, a little of that and BAM, you've got a Dazed Gourmet Special! So why this Public Service Announcement? Simple yet again, I've got a cold and what better time of year then to provide Dazed's Cold Remedy receipes.

Dazed's receipe for a Vitamin fortified shake snack: Fresh fruits and veggies give the richest source of Vitamin C and there are lots of juices that combine fruit and vegetable juice with high levels of it. Some of the highest Vitamin C amounts can be found in sources like Rose hip, Wolfberry, Blackcurrant, Red pepper, Parsley, Guava, Kiwifruit, Broccoli, Redcurrant, Persimmon, Papaya, Strawberry, Orange, Lemon, Melon, Cauliflower, Grapefruit, Raspberry, Tangerine, Passion fruit and Spinach. Mix this all ina blender and trust me, you'll forget you've got a cold. (Cauliflower, broccoli and spinach turned me off)

Dazed's receipe for Chicken Soup: A few cans of store bought chicken soup, of your preferred brand, can be enhanced for the "kill all" remedy. Toss some Garlic in there too. As an immunity booster, garlic has a natural antibiotic called Allicin. Though Garlic is most effective when you drink fresh juice or take garlic capsules. Onions share some of the same antiviral effects as garlic and used together in cooking will give a large boost. Remember that vegetables retain their vitamin and mineral content best when eaten raw or lightly cooked, so don’t fry or boil them to oblivion.  Make sure to have allot of crackers handy...helps kill the 
garlic/onion after taste.

Dazed's homemade lonzenges: Hell, stick a peeled Garlic clove in your mouth, hold it like candy and bite down lightly to release the juices. Just like a lozenge..talk about a rush. And this remedy helps keep your family and co-workers healthy as well. Who wants to be around garlic breath more then absolutely necessary? And another benefit is no vampires!

Dazed's homemade tea: What to wash this all down with? Simple...Fresh ginger root tea is another favorite. With about an ounce of freshly grated ginger root put into a pint of water and simmer for up to 10 minutes, add a little honey, cayenne pepper and lemon makes for a lovely afternoon treat. Lemon has high levels of Vitamin C to boot and honey also does its part to help the immune system.  The cayenne pepper adds a little ZING
to your afternoon tea.

Talk about a full course vitamin meal all-in-one! I sure hope this helps you dear readers. I provide these Public Service Announcements because I want my readers to return daily, while encouraging healthy bodies and spirits.

*Disclaimer: DACFH is not responsible for any of the following: Projectile Vomiting, Vitamin Overdose, Allergic Reactions and/or any medical conditions and incurred medical expenses derived from actually following these so-called receipes.

Bits and Pieces

Just a few days left to meet the overall goal of $180,000. Collectively we are half-way there. C'mon folks...this is for a very worthy cause. Otherwise I would not be posting this. Project Valour IT Go visit and donate to your favorite Military Branch. Its a friendly competition and the monies all end up in the same coffer.

In other news...my cold came back with a vengeance. It hit me hard yesterday afternoon and hasn't let up since. Today I have an echogram and this will be interesting. Sneezing, coughing and blowing my nose while trying to get accurate readings.

Reality

Cardio-rehab is getting tougher each week. It's to be expected but damn, it already feels like I'm training for a triathalon. Hell, maybe I'll be able to run a triathalon next summer. 8 weeks of rehab isn't all that bad. It could be worse...12 weeks or longer. The people there are really nice and I'm starting to relax and be myself. I really enjoy the treadmill as I like to walk. I am looking into gyms to frequent while the weather is cold and miserable. The choices are limited but I've narrowed down to just two.

I'm supposed to be exercising at home...supposed to be. I'm exhausted when I get home from work each night. I have to lay down for 30 minutes each night. I think I've done well only having cat-napped once at work. And this weekend, I'm trying not to let this cold get any worse. I had planned on a flu shot but they advised against it while I have this cold.

That's all for now...more to follow. Stay tuned and have a great weekend!

A Search with One Result

 One result search

And no it wasn't me!  

Domain Name (Unknown)
IP Address 63.173.52.# (Sprint)
ISP Sprint
Location Continent : North America
Country : United States (Facts)
State : Virginia
City : Reston
Lat/Long : 38.8318, -77.2888 (Map)

Language English (United States)
en-us
Operating System Microsoft Windows Server 2003
Browser Internet Explorer 6.0
Mozilla/4.0 (compatible; MSIE 6.0; Windows NT 5.2; SV1; .NET CLR 1.1.4322; .NET CLR 1.0.3705)
Javascript version 1.3
Monitor Resolution : 1280 x 1024
Color Depth : 16 bits

Time of Visit Oct 31 2006 1:46:26 pm
Last Page View Oct 31 2006 1:46:26 pm
Visit Length 0 seconds
Page Views 1
Referring URL http://www.google.co...e that problem%2E%22
Search Engine google.com
Search Words "some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have ever made a difference in the world, but the soldiers don't have that problem."
Visit Entry Page http://dacfh.blogspo...1_dacfh_archive.html
Visit Exit Page http://dacfh.blogspo...1_dacfh_archive.html
Out Click
Time Zone UTC-6:00
Visitor's Time Oct 31 2006 12:46:26 pm
Visit Number 3,173

Does this mean I'm all alone in my world?

And the most obscure search!
Rather odd...don't you think?

And yes...I like some good good reading. Which reminds me...there are new links over there for your reading enjoyment. Go check them out and tell'em Dazd sent you. Not that they have any idea who I am...but it sounds good right?

My blog is worth $15,807.12.
How much is your blog worth?

Previously posted HERE. I'm financially expanding this blog...yea yea, I've heard it all before..."Checks in the mail"...WTFever!

Valour IT

Project Valour-IT, in memory of SFC William V. Ziegenfuss (Captain Chuck Ziegenfuss' father), provides voice-controlled software and laptop computers to wounded Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines recovering from hand and arm injuries or amputations at major military medical centers. Operating laptops by speaking into a microphone, our wounded heroes are able to send and receive messages from friends and loved ones, surf the 'Net, and communicate with buddies still in the field without having to press a key or move a mouse.

Every cent raised for Project Valour-IT goes directly to the purchase and shipment of voice-activated laptops for wounded servicemembers. As of October 2006, Valour-IT has distributed nearly 600 laptops to severely wounded Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines across the country.

During its initial phase, Valour-IT created "libraries" of laptops equipped with voice-controlled software for the severely wounded staying at major military medical centers. In many cases a laptop was provided to a wounded hero for permanent use.

Valour-IT is continuing to accept donations of any amount to supply the "libraries" of laptops at major medical centers and gifts to individuals, but has also added the option of an individual or organization directly sponsoring a wounded soldier by completely funding the cost of a laptop and continuing to provide him or her with personal support and encouragement throughout recovery. This has proved to be an excellent project for churches, groups of coworkers or friends, and members of community organizations such Boy Scouts.

Most recently thanks to the efforts of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Valour-IT is now able to reach personnel in VA hospitals who would benefit from a Valour-IT laptop.

Wounded military personnel can request a laptop through the sign-up form if they are recovering at home or in military hospitals, or through the Valour-IT/Soldiers' Angels representatives if they are patients at the following medical centers:

Balboa Naval Hospital
Brooke Army Medical Center
Madigan Regional Medical Center
National Naval Medical Center (Bethesda Naval Hospital)
Naval Hospital, Camp Pendleton
Robert E. Bush Naval Hospital (29 Palms)
Walter Reed Army Medical Center

It's a tax-deductible donation and eligible for matching funds from companies who do that sort of thing (see: http://soldiersangels.org/valour/irsinfo.html for proof for the cautious).

The snail mail address for those who'd rather donate that way (be sure to put Air Force in big letters on the check):
Soldiers' Angels
1150 N Loop 1604 W, Suite 108-493
San Antonio, TX 78248

Let's be a part of something big.

"At that time I had no use of either hand. I know how humbling it is, how humiliating it feels. And I know how much better I felt, how amazingly more functional I felt, after Soldiers' Angels provided me with a laptop and a loyal reader provided me with the software. I can't wait to do the same, to give that feeling to another soldier at Walter Reed. "
--CPT Chuck Ziegenfuss, on the inspiration for Valour-IT

Project Valour IT

BMS

I never posted something this emotional before. Yes, there have been a few about me lately but aside from that I rarely venture outside my own world. I've mentioned my cousin who is deployed currently and my nephew I lost back in February. And it's when I run across sites like the one in this post, I always seem to get the BMS. I'm sure most of you have experienced this whilst reading your monitor. Yes, us guys have only experienced once...Ok Ok, maybe twice, but thats all! *cough*

My blog buddy DNR posted about LCPL Joshua Ryan Bleill on his new site back sometime ago. If you remember DNR, he's the one who graciously updated you all during my tours in the hospital. Go check out his site...Grasshopper has done well.

So without much more fanfare, please go read about LCPL Joshua Ryan Bleill. Read it from beginning to end. It's worth the reading, otherwise I'd not post about it here. And make sure that you tell John Kerry "Kiss my Ass" next time he comes across the television screen. And here's a pic I shamelessly stole originally from Outside the Beltway but just realized Goldbloom's Padded Cell has it too!



And in case you haven't figured out what BMS is yet....Blurry Monitor Syndrome.

One of Indiana's Own

When the Frost is on the Punkin

When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock,
And you hear the kyouck and gobble of the struttin' turkey-cock,
And the clackin' of the guineys, and the cluckin' of the hens,
And the rooster's hallylooyer as he tiptoes on the fence;
O, it's then's the times a feller is a-feelin' at his best,
With the risin' sun to greet him from a night of peaceful rest,
As he leaves the house, bareheaded, and goes to feed the stock,
When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock.

They's something kindo' harty-like about the atmusfere
When the heat of summer's over and the coolin' fall is here --
Of course we miss the flowers, and the blossums on the trees,
And the mumble of the hummin'-birds and buzzin' of the bees;
But the air's so appetizin'; and the landscape through the haze
Of a crisp and sunny morning of the airly autumn days
Is a pictur' that no painter has the colorin' to mock --
When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock.

The husky, rusty russel of the tossels of the corn,
And the raspin' of the tangled leaves, as golden as the morn;
The stubble in the furries -- kindo' lonesome-like, but still
A-preachin' sermons to us of the barns they growed to fill;
The strawsack in the medder, and the reaper in the shed;
The hosses in theyr stalls below -- the clover overhead! --
O, it sets my hart a-clickin' like the tickin' of a clock,
When the frost is on the punkin, and the fodder's in the shock!

Then your apples all is gethered, and the ones a feller keeps
Is poured around the celler-floor in red and yeller heaps;
And your cider-makin's over, and your wimmern-folks is through
With their mince and apple-butter, and theyr souse and saussage, too!
I don't know how to tell it -- but ef sich a thing could be
As the Angles wantin' boardin', and they'd call around on me --
I'd want to 'commodate 'em -- all the whole-indurin' flock --
When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock!

~James Whitcomb Riley

For the non-Hoosier:
“Punkin” is a colloquial version of “pumpkin”.
“Fodder” is livestock feed, as in dried corn, and a “shock” is a heap in the field.
“Guineys” are Guinea fowl, small birds raised for their meat.
“Hallylooyer” is hallelujah.
“Tossels” are corn tassels, the flax-like ends of corn ears.
“Furries” is furrows, “meader” is meadow, and “wimmern-folks” is “women-folks”.
“Mince” refers to mincemeat pie, and “souse” refers to pickled foods.
“Boardin’” a meal, as in the “board” part of “room and board”.

Happy Halloween-Jokes

Why did the vampire go to the orthodontist?
To improve his bite...

What do you get when you cross a vampire and a snowman?
Frostbite...

Why do witches use brooms to fly on?
Because vacuum cleaners are too heavy...

How do witches keep their hair in place while flying?
With scare spray...

What do you get when you cross a werewolf and a vampire?
A fur coat that fangs around your neck...

Do zombies eat popcorn with their fingers?
No, they eat the fingers separately...

Why don't skeletons ever go out on the town?
Because they don't have any body to go out with...

What do ghosts add to their morning cereal?
Booberries...

What is a vampire's favorite sport?
Casketball...

What is a vampire's favorite holiday?
Fangsgiving...

What would a monster's psychiatrist be called?
Shrinkenstein...

What did one ghost say to the other ghost?
"Do you believe in people?"

What do you call someone who puts poison in a person's corn flakes?
A cereal killer...

Why do mummies have trouble keeping friends?
They're so wrapped up in themselves...

What kind of streets do zombies like the best?
Dead ends...

What does the papa ghost say to his family when driving?
Fasten your sheet belts...

What is a vampire's favorite mode of transportation?
A blood vessel...

What is a ghost's favorite mode of transportation?
A scareplane...

What type of dog do vampire's like the best?
Bloodhounds...

What is a ghoul's favorite flavor?
Lemon-slime...

What does a vampire never order at a restaurant?
A stake sandwich...

What is a skeleton's favorite musical instrument?
A trombone...

What do birds give out on Halloween night?
Tweets...

Why do vampires need mouthwash?
They have bat breath...

What's a vampire's favorite fast food?
A guy with very high blood pressure...

Why did the Vampire subscribe to the Wall Street Journal?
He heard it had great circulation...

 

Delayed First Day Back-to-Work Post

Friday I was slinging salt once again from deep within the mine. Nothing like working in a tunnel 8 hours a day to cure claustrophobia. I have drawn a conclusion that this mine is similar to a mushroom growing operation…keeps me in the dark and fed allot of schit.

First day back wasn’t all that bad considering. Considering I had to: 1. Get used to others in the bathroom again, 2. Couldn’t eat when I wanted, 3. Damn phone ringing all the time, 4. Damn noisy people when I coulda used a nap for Pete’s sake. The work day dragged on for what seemed like 6 hours. I had Cardio-rehab that morning and the Drill Instructors had increased my workload. Woulda been nice if they’d informed me on Wednesday, but I’m guessing its all part of their twisted hedonistic plan. Yes, that’s right…I said it…their hedonistic plan. Their plan to enjoy my pain and suffering at their every instruction.

I’m back to a semi-regular daily schedule…35 hours a week maybe more if I feel so compelled to supplement my paycheck with an actual 40 hour work week. Cardio-rehab 3 times a week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the next ummm 6 weeks I think. Lucky for me I sit on my rump all day designing things and reading blogs. (I don’t actually work ina mine, but sounded cool huh)

Back to a regular blog schedule? Maybe, my senses are now overloaded with stimuli from a seemingly new environment. Yes, I realize it’s the same workplace and daily commute. 4 weeks away from something and it really does seem new, ya know? Oh I liked being at home, but there is something to be said about a regular daily schedule to lighten the soul.

Delayed thanks to issues on blogger this weekend.

 

Saturday Chuckle

A Nebraska farmer got in his pickup and drove to a neighboring farm and knocked at the farmhouse door. A young boy about 9 opened the door.

"Is yer Dad home?" the farmer asked.

"No sir, he ain't," the boy replied "He went into town."

"Well," said the farmer, "is yer Mom here?"

"No, sir, she ain't here neither. She went into town with Dad."

"How about your brother, Howard? Is he here?"

"He went with Mom and Dad."

The farmer stood there for a few minutes, shifting from one foot to the other and mumbling to himself.

"Is there anything I can do fer ya?" the boy asked politely. "I knows where all the tools are, if you want to borry one. Or maybe I could take a message fer Dad."

"Well," said the farmer uncomfortably, "I really wanted to talk to yer Dad. It's about your brother Howard getting my daughter, Pearly Mae, pregnant."

The boy considered for a moment "You would have to talk to Pa about that," he finally conceded. "If it helps you any, I know that Pa charges $50 for the bull and $25 for the hog, but, I really don't know how much he gets fer Howard."

 

Thursday Morning

 Tomorrow is the big day!  I return to the wonderful world of employment.  I'm a little apprehensive.  I've enjoyed the relaxing time I've had but I'm ready to return to a regular routine.  There's only so much daytime TV a person can stomach.

I have a few errands to complete today.  That's all I have for now.

Today's Riddles-UPDATED

1. I move very slowly at an imperceptible rate, although I take my time, I am never late. I accompany life, and survive past demise, I am viewed with esteem in many women's eyes.

What am I?  Hair

2.  I have two rings. I move by request.
If the mixture is not right, I just sit at rest.

What am I? Piston

3.  About the size of a squash,
He robs the whole village.
 
What am I?  Rat

Late Night/Early Morning

I’ve pondered for many days…

The words do not flow, they reside deep within the abyss of my mind. The words are seemingly light yet carry a heavy tone. They tease my senses with an impending release only to have them retreat yet again. When the words are forced, there is a sense of humor yet intermingled is an underlying seriousness. I feel like a mime attempting pontification…

I truly believe one moment defines a person’s life. I’ve had such a definition and I regrettably cannot find the words for adequate expression. So I will use an example…the simplest example I can find.

Right now…turn your monitor off, count to 5 and turn it back on.



No words from your return to inspire or release the emotional energy. Only a nod of acknowledgement…



 

Friday

Good morning readers!  

I apologize for not posting this past week.  I took a week off to 
relax and mend. Sometimes a person just needs their space to help cope with the curves life throws you.  

I start my cardio-rehab program this morning.  I met with them Wednesday and went thru a mini-stress test to see where I start in the program.  Looks like I'll be attending 3 sessions a week for the next 8 weeks.

I am also attempting to return to work next Friday, October 27th.  I can finally sit for long periods of time without pain in my leg.  And I've cut down on naps during the day.  So maybe, just maybe, the boss won't mind one nap during my day.  Of course with rehab sessions at 8 a.m. three days a week, I'll be on reduced hours for now.

Hopefully I can get my groove back on posting.   I still have so many things to post...

I'm Baaaaaack!!!

 Good afternoon readers...I survived my procedure!  Definitely not as scary as September 25th after surviving a heart attack but definitely not worth sneezing at.  I am tired and sore but will be enjoying the weekend relaxing.  No exciting stories of gorgeous nursing staff administering sponge baths worthy of a "Dear Penthouse" letter.  I guess my insurance coverage isn't that great after all.

Thanks to DNR for posting an update.  You've done well Grasshopper.  I'll post more ina couple of days.

The Dazd Update Network

DazdnConfzd is gonna be OK!!! (applause, cheers, the crowd goes crazy, definitely no crickets here, definitely)

Hey Everyone!!

The message I get from the Dazed one is;
Everything went well. He is in his room enjoying the hospital food and recovering. He should be home posting for us Friday some time.

Respectfully submitted by DNR – DazdnConfzd Disciple in Training

Wednesday Morning

Good morning!

As promised Monday, here are a few pictures of the view at the lake get-away.  I had planned on taking pictures of the place itself but my CRS was in full gear.  Why the picture of fungus?  Lil Dazd thought it was cool and asked I take a picture.





As you can see, there's allot of trees and although we have neighbors they aren't real close.  This place makes for a relaxing get-away and there's plenty of activities to keep me outta trouble, errrr occupied.

The last of the stents will be interred within my circumflex artery tomorrow morning.  I'm nervous and excited at the same time.  I'm not looking forward to another hospital stay but I am eager to see the procedure from a different perspective.  Hopefully I'll be awake.  I think I was awake last time...I don't recall any anesthesia.  I'm sure some form on local anesthesia was given and possibly a sedative.  With all those IV's its difficult to know.  And I'm sure I drifted off to la la land.  

I will return to post a report soon.  Until then, watch the comments cos I'm sure to get hospital boredom and login.  The hospital system is a nice benefit but its sure could use more flexibility.  I'll be there overnight and barring any complications, I'll be home Friday.

My buddy DNR will post a progress report tomorrow.  He'll be logging in as me...so be nice to him, k?  And if you encourage him he may even post his trial post.

Monday Morning

Good morning!

Yea Yea yea...I know it's Monday and Mondays suck. I was sitting here drinking Decaf coffee (ewww) and wondering what to post on a glorius Monday. Nothing really strikes a chord today so I thought I'd try something fun, well fun for me anyways. We all know what a Link Whore I am, and I figured I'd venture into another whoring arena. I call it the Search Whore. Search terms normal people type in and those that perverse people search for. We watched a movine this weekend called "Yours, Mine and Ours". Movie Titles The plot is similar to "Cheaper by the Dozen" and is definitely a family movie. One line in the movie made me chuckle..."I googled her all night". "I'm not sure what googling is but it sounds dirty. I cannot believe you googled another mans wife".

Now I get allot of hits for Dazed and Confuzed, even more for Dazed and Confused, a few still for Cows, not so many for Patriot Guard Riders and certainly none for pet monkey tricks. It also makes you wonder about dog tricks, cat tricks and horse tricks. Maybe Trick-or-Treat will be a big search hit, although I'm positive more prestigious sites have that covered already. I should stay clear of the perverse search terms, for my dear readers, but a few came to mind. Underwear and panties seem to be a big term used (so I've heard) and not necessarily in conjunction with pirates. Pirate panties?!?!?! Arrrrrghhh. Hooters seems to be a popular term also. Although I don't like their food...still a nice place to watch a ball game with friends. The Grand Tetons would be a nice park to visit. I wonder if Dolly Parton has ever been there?

My DASAINT post was a big hit with a RV forum. DASAINT Not sure how that person found the post but hats off to you if you are a continuing reader.

I hope everyone had a great weekend. I have a couple of pics to post later.

Friday Revelation

Good Morning! Such a beautiful day here at Dazed Central. Was a might bit chilly this morning as the thermostat read 43 degrees at 6:30 this morning. Frost warnings were issued for the northern portion of my state and the first sign that Winter is quickly approaching. The sun is shining, the overnight dew glistening, neighborhood awakening as if from a deep slumber and once again I meet the day empowered with renewed strength and perserverence.

I realized something last night, and it really struck a chord deep within. My own selfishness has generated an unintentional consequence. This consequence can be rectified but I fear a small portion will never mend. The bonds of trust and belief that a parent always has the best interest is somewhat tainted. The belief that reality is always a distant thought has evolved into a forethought. Dictating our every response, action and schedules. It not only effects my life but all those surrounding me. My own selfishness has become a demon...a demon I created and only I can destroy.

In all my joy to be alive, I neglected to fully educate my son. I told my story of that harrowing experience to anyone that asked and was prepared to listen. However, I neglected telling my son...the one who stands by me day and night, the one I felt it was my parental duty to shield him from this ordeal, but in this selfish process I created a demon that is dwelling within both of us. Only I can conquer this demon and banish it from our lives. I thank my maker daily for being given a second chance. I promised from day one not to squander it. And now I thank my maker for a wonderful son who, in all his wisdom of 10 years, never asked a single question. Sitting patiently waiting for his father to compassionately explain just how close to death he came and that he is also scared, just like his son. The son who is inquisitive and thirsts for understanding when medical issues effect the ones he loves and cares for.

This whole revelation surfaced last night when I heard muffled sobbing emanating from my his room. Upon providing comfort and understanding to his unknown issue, he simply asked, "Daddy, aren't you scared?" I quietly whispered yes, kissed him on the forehead and tucked him away into the safety and comfort of his bed. As I sat on his bedside, I comforted him with words chocked full of emotion. I promised I'd mend the fences and quietly told myself I'd banish this demon. He fell asleep with a lone tear gently cascading down his face.

I will be taking this weekend and traveling to our lakeside get-away. This will be my last opportunity of the season. I am spending this time to exorcise this demon and mend the holes created by my selfishness.

"As selfishness and complaint pervert the mind, so love with its joy clears and sharpens the vision."
Helen Keller

Thursday Morning

Good morning!

Just a short note to let my readers know I'm still alive and screaming, errrrr kicking. I've added a new feature here located on the right under all the links. I found it over at Harvey's Place and decided maybe I'd give it a whirl. I'm also trying to get back into a regular routine.

So here is today's Riddle:
You are walking through a field, and you find something to eat. It doesn't have bones, and it doesn't have meat. You pick it up and put it into your pocket. You take it home and put it on a shelf, but 3 days later it walks away. What is it?

And here's another:
I am slim and tall,
Many find me desirable and appealing.
They touch me and I give a false good feeling.
Once I shine in splendor,
But only once and then no more.
For many I am "to die for".
What am I?

Answers to follow soon!

Tuesdays Rambling

Good afternoon dear readers! And so another day has slipped by leaving a void. I must rest, I must not do anything strenuous, I must rest, I MUST BE GOING CRAZY!

Seriously, I am doing well all things considered. This downtime gives me ample opportunity to reflect on objects and circumstances I'd normally not consider. Take today for example, I drove to the bank about 10 minutes from here. As I was standing in a lengthy line, the gentleman, and I use that term loosely, started vocalizing his discontent. I let him rant off and on for around 5 minutes. Amusing really...but then I calmly turned around and stated, "I had a heart attack last Monday. I'm happy to be alive and standing in this line regardless of its length. You sir, need to be patient otherwise you might not survive like I did." Heh...I smiled and turned back around not hearing another sound. Whether I tuned him out or he took my comment to heart, is of no consequence to the peacefulness I felt. Was I rude or not...why do I care, I'm alive.

I have so many ideas for blogging I cannot organize them into a coherent topic. One day, I'll have them all organized and here for you to ponder the ramblings of the dazed and confuzed one.

Sunday Morning Decaf Coffee

I rested comfortably the last two nights. It was a pleasant experience to sleep in my own bed again. While I did enjoy the nurses and staff enacting my every request, nothing can compare to home. Saturday morning had a major event, I took my first shower in 6 days. Oh stop it...of course I washed and bathed during my hospital stay. Geesh you guys! But nothing like a shower first thing of a morning. Its my jumpstart and sets my mood for the day. And sad to say, my java jumpstart has been reduced to decaf. Allot of things have been reduced, but its all for the better.

Monday night I was doing mowing and running the weedwhacker. As I was 3/4 ways done, my neck and jaw became very tight. Then my teeth started hurting. I stopped and had figured I had pulled a muscle. I sat down to rest and hollered for the missus. She brought me a glass of water and said she'd sweep off the sidewalks for me. As I sat there, I became dizzy, short of breath and eventually nauseated. When the small amounts of pain started, thats when I told the missus we were going to the ER PRONTO!. Once I got there and in a room, things regressed. I had my heart attack in the ER, was transported to a cardiac unit at another hospital and had angioplasty performed on me. From time of ER admittance to cardiac recovery room admittance was 4 hours. They weren't messing around!

I had a blockage in two of my heart arteries. Most of this is for my medical type readers. lol The most severe blockage (100%) was in the junction of right coronary artery and the posterior descending artery. This required 2 stents to allow proper blood flow. The second artery is the circumflex artery. This is blocked approximately 70-90% and will be reopened on October 12th. Yes, I asked why not both at once? Plain and simple explanation, it woulda killed me. Who am I to question that answer?

The doc also told me that if I hadn't been in the ER when my heart attack started, I probably wouldn't be here today typing this post. There will be more posts of my experience of that night as energy and time allows. I just thought my readers deserved some form of explanation, although its a Readers Digest version.

I thank all of you for the posts, emails and comments wishing me the best. My Creator gave me a second chance, I will not squander this opportunity.

I'm Home

I'm home now. I'll post more as my energy returns and the cobwebs clear. Thank you to everyone for all the get well wishes, posts and emails. I look forward to catching up after 5 days absence.

I did have a heart attack and i'm recovering.

Bits-n-Pieces

Theater of the Soul has an interesting post about a mirror site. It seems it only effects those sites with RSS feeds. It also seems to effect Wordpress users and individual users. That's why I'm posting it here...I know a few of my daily reads are Wordpress sites and individual hosted sites. Here are two links TS found to help exterminate the issue.

Fix Suggestion #1

Fix Suggestion #2

Other Internet related news, The JAWA Report assisted in thwarting attempts of a questionable site feed. You can view the article here: The JAWA Report

KeesKeenis celebrates the 10,000 hits mark. Congrats! Go visit him and keep him progressing to the 20,000 mark.

Army Wife Toddler Mom attempts to hit the 100,000 mark. Let's see if we can get her there this week!

Yes, its Monday and I am exhausted. I usually don't provide a link fest here, but today I'll make an exception.

Note: I'm updating this as I find more sites with interesting tid-bits or site hit goals. It's tough catching up after 3 days of absence...all excused of course.