hopefully this storm has been overrated, really want to get the last class in for the semester. looking forward to one last V.O.R session.
i must say it has been a blast for this old dog. i was very against going back to school for many reasons. i am glad that my return consisted of this class, instructor and classmates, as it has remove some of my cynical attitude towards school. i now look forward to future classes and challenges. just hope that they will be as rewarding as this class was.
looking forward to tomorrows last session. let's hope Horace shines some light on us. V.O.R wants one last crack at a few things, but i told him he is just invited for the snacks, he wont speak with his mouth full.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Friday, December 14, 2007
14DEC07 / 23:25 / WORK
ahhhhh, there is nothing better than cold leftover italian catering food from an office party to soothe the savage supervisor. that extra solid penne in vodka sauce topped off with the last piece of sausage from the sausage and peppers really make for a gourmet meal.
so as you can see i am at work on one of those nights again. i will spare you the details, but just vent about people dropping the ball. this has inspired me to create a new game, "i dropped the ball". the rules are if you drop the ball at work, you get dropped yourself. the twist is you make the choice on how you get dropped, from the roof, from the ceiling, or from the job. i am trying to secure a deal with spike tv to broadcast the pilot. no sorry, you cant sign up , as i have more than enough contestants here at work.
right now, the only thing that is keeping me going is that i know i do not have to get up at 06:00 for a math class. this take a weight off my back and allows me to prepare my ripping emails. if only i could get college credits for the emails, then i would be able to get a associates in 2 weeks!
so as you can see i am at work on one of those nights again. i will spare you the details, but just vent about people dropping the ball. this has inspired me to create a new game, "i dropped the ball". the rules are if you drop the ball at work, you get dropped yourself. the twist is you make the choice on how you get dropped, from the roof, from the ceiling, or from the job. i am trying to secure a deal with spike tv to broadcast the pilot. no sorry, you cant sign up , as i have more than enough contestants here at work.
right now, the only thing that is keeping me going is that i know i do not have to get up at 06:00 for a math class. this take a weight off my back and allows me to prepare my ripping emails. if only i could get college credits for the emails, then i would be able to get a associates in 2 weeks!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
13DEC07 / 22:50 / WORK
yet another monday folks. well for me it is, you all get to enjoy it as thursday.
didn't get an entry in yesterday. it was a special day as my wife and i both had off. we were assistants in my daughter pre-k class, which was lots of fun. it is amazing how kids display so many adult characteristics at times, but then the switch kicks in and they all become four year olds again. we had our own table during activity time where we played a game we brought from home. i got to read the story at the end of class, i had a blast with that one.
we continued family day with picking up of the christmas tree, or as V.O.R. likes to call it, Odin's Tree. I have never had it so easy before, the Knights of Columbus(didn't know he had any or that he was a king)hall across the street from our house was selling trees and such this year. the guy asked where my car was so he could tie down the tree onto the roof. he got a kick when i put the tree over my shoulder and said, "it's OK , i gonna walk home." my wife told him how far that was.
the rest of the day we enjoyed ourselves and had pizza with some friends, with whom we were finally able to lock down on a date.
soooo. this morning i set up the tree in the stand and fill that sucka with some H2O. Hopefully by Sunday the tree will be all decked out. just hope that fat guy in the red suit doesn't knock it over when he puts the gifts underneath.
didn't get an entry in yesterday. it was a special day as my wife and i both had off. we were assistants in my daughter pre-k class, which was lots of fun. it is amazing how kids display so many adult characteristics at times, but then the switch kicks in and they all become four year olds again. we had our own table during activity time where we played a game we brought from home. i got to read the story at the end of class, i had a blast with that one.
we continued family day with picking up of the christmas tree, or as V.O.R. likes to call it, Odin's Tree. I have never had it so easy before, the Knights of Columbus(didn't know he had any or that he was a king)hall across the street from our house was selling trees and such this year. the guy asked where my car was so he could tie down the tree onto the roof. he got a kick when i put the tree over my shoulder and said, "it's OK , i gonna walk home." my wife told him how far that was.
the rest of the day we enjoyed ourselves and had pizza with some friends, with whom we were finally able to lock down on a date.
soooo. this morning i set up the tree in the stand and fill that sucka with some H2O. Hopefully by Sunday the tree will be all decked out. just hope that fat guy in the red suit doesn't knock it over when he puts the gifts underneath.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
11DEC07 / 00:20 / WORK
well, still at work folks. waiting on our colleagues overseas to finish up their work and send us messages so that we can then finish our work. so much for getting out early on my friday. could have really used some wings and pints at Croaxley's tonight.
i have shared the zeitgeist with some friends at work. you can watch the entire movie on youtube. it still fascinates me, the fact there are people out there that had issue with some of the 9/11 WTC collapse, enough so that they investigated as much as they did. i mean, think about it, big planes full of fuel hit buildings, and after a while they collapse. i was satisfied with the information, but the people in the movie were not, and it bothered them enough to use their expertise in their own fields to research deeper.
for this i am thankful. though i am afraid of what we may find out, for if it was truly done in the manner in which they describe, how will we react and how will we recover. if it is true, then maybe the 2012 theory isn't such a bad thing after all.
i have shared the zeitgeist with some friends at work. you can watch the entire movie on youtube. it still fascinates me, the fact there are people out there that had issue with some of the 9/11 WTC collapse, enough so that they investigated as much as they did. i mean, think about it, big planes full of fuel hit buildings, and after a while they collapse. i was satisfied with the information, but the people in the movie were not, and it bothered them enough to use their expertise in their own fields to research deeper.
for this i am thankful. though i am afraid of what we may find out, for if it was truly done in the manner in which they describe, how will we react and how will we recover. if it is true, then maybe the 2012 theory isn't such a bad thing after all.
Sunday, December 09, 2007
10DEC07 / 00:00 / WORK
i really enjoyed the movie this morning. i really had to hold back V.O. R. because he wanted to so badly take it all to the next and other level. if i would have let him run with it, we would still be there discussing all the topics.
the first part about the similarities of the messianic dogmas throughout the ages was well done. i especially enjoyed the part that paralleled them all with the movement of the earth and the stars. it all made sense, but then again , if you lay it out correctly, 13 x 7 = 28(from Abbott & Costello)
after viewing and considering all parts of the movie, when you sit down and think about it all, you only have the following choices:
1.) embrace it all and herald it as the truth
2.) accept it and feel your doomed
3.) figure it out and be slick enough to know how to work it to your advantage
4.) rebel for the sake of change, and try not to get caught
the bottom line to all of this is one thing; at the end of the day, you got to be able to look at yourself in the mirror and know that you did the best you could. it sounds easy, but we all know it isn't. you can feed a line to others, but you can't B.S. yourself when you are one on one in the mirror. if you can successfully accomplish this, then it doesn't matter what befalls you that day, as you will be right with the universe. that is something that no religious leader, politician, international banker, or terrorist can take from you.
the first part about the similarities of the messianic dogmas throughout the ages was well done. i especially enjoyed the part that paralleled them all with the movement of the earth and the stars. it all made sense, but then again , if you lay it out correctly, 13 x 7 = 28(from Abbott & Costello)
after viewing and considering all parts of the movie, when you sit down and think about it all, you only have the following choices:
1.) embrace it all and herald it as the truth
2.) accept it and feel your doomed
3.) figure it out and be slick enough to know how to work it to your advantage
4.) rebel for the sake of change, and try not to get caught
the bottom line to all of this is one thing; at the end of the day, you got to be able to look at yourself in the mirror and know that you did the best you could. it sounds easy, but we all know it isn't. you can feed a line to others, but you can't B.S. yourself when you are one on one in the mirror. if you can successfully accomplish this, then it doesn't matter what befalls you that day, as you will be right with the universe. that is something that no religious leader, politician, international banker, or terrorist can take from you.
09DEC07 / 00:00 / WORK
well i got past one hurdle today, my math test. did not score as high as i would have liked to but it was acceptable. even though it was just the NCC placement test , algebra portion, it was very critical for me to pass. if i didn't, i wd have to take a 12 hour refresher or MAT002 again, both were not options! so now it is onto Math 109, Algebra and Trig, i figure if i got the dragon by the tale might as well and go fro the throat and conquer the beast known as Algebra.
after this success, the rest of the day was uneventful, some few human errors by agents at work, but nothing that couldn't be fixed with some stern discussion.
looking forward to tomorrow's class. I am anxious about the final paper yet still confident that all will work out as it should. i will miss this sunday morning class, it helped me keep my sanity and get me back into going to school.
after this success, the rest of the day was uneventful, some few human errors by agents at work, but nothing that couldn't be fixed with some stern discussion.
looking forward to tomorrow's class. I am anxious about the final paper yet still confident that all will work out as it should. i will miss this sunday morning class, it helped me keep my sanity and get me back into going to school.
Friday, December 07, 2007
08DEC07 / 00:00 / WORK
i feel a bit guilty for the early entry yesterday, bu not enough to keep from doing it again today!!! seeing that there aren't too many left for the class it is not alot to ask of myself, though i do believe i will continue for the New Year, making it a real journal and less of assignment.
we should all be keeping some type of a journal, be it paper or blog, as a way of recording history, that of our own personal lives and our individual reflection of the times we live in. too many times in days past have the conquerors recorded history to their liking, which has us losing out on the truth about so much of our past.
the only down fall of the advancement of historical recording of our present time is that we get data overload, too much, too soon, and all too fast. it numbs us of the feelings we should be having regarding the events we are witnessing. we fall into the trap that Don Henley sings about in his song "Dirty Laundry" where it doesn't matter what we see on the news, just that we see it, and see it all.
so we not only have an obligation to record our own little "histories", but to do so in a way that will keep it real so that 100 years down the line, it doesn't just become a part of someones data overload.
we should all be keeping some type of a journal, be it paper or blog, as a way of recording history, that of our own personal lives and our individual reflection of the times we live in. too many times in days past have the conquerors recorded history to their liking, which has us losing out on the truth about so much of our past.
the only down fall of the advancement of historical recording of our present time is that we get data overload, too much, too soon, and all too fast. it numbs us of the feelings we should be having regarding the events we are witnessing. we fall into the trap that Don Henley sings about in his song "Dirty Laundry" where it doesn't matter what we see on the news, just that we see it, and see it all.
so we not only have an obligation to record our own little "histories", but to do so in a way that will keep it real so that 100 years down the line, it doesn't just become a part of someones data overload.
07DEC07 / 00:10 / LAPTOP
i figured i would play it safe and get in 07DEC's blog while i am still at the computer. lord knows if i would get to it during the day never mind at work, now that we have so much mail to move on the flights.
i have been finding it fascinating how now, through our own intelligence reports, we find that Iran is not on the verge of killing us with nuclear missiles. i wonder how "W" feels about this. was it something he and the "Tin Man" planned this way, sort of like being nice guys to calm things down and get the Annapolis meetings approved by the Iranians? or is it really something he was not aware of prior to it's release and now he has to do a bit of back pedaling? either way their approach is not productive.
i have former colleagues from a previous airline who are are iranian. i meet them at a training course in germany, where we spent four weeks together, learning, studying, dining, hiking, shopping, and being human beings together. one colleague was working full time and caring for his ailing father who was suffering from cancer. the other was recently engaged and missing his fiance' very much during the four weeks. we came to understand that we were all in the same boat, working to make ends meet while trying to set up our lives for the future of our families.
what gets me is that during this four week period in 2003, iran had a moderate leader, khatami, and peaceful overtures were being made by both the US and Iran. so what i want to know is what happened? yes the got a hardliner into their administration, just like we did. but does that mean we have to go through this crap of my guns are bigger than yours?
here is the solution. "W" needs to publicly state he wants a real face to face with Ahmadinajaket. two guys sitting down getting to business. he makes it very clear that we both need to start over and get past all the b.s. and find solutions together to the problems in the region. at the same time he lets Amadinajaket know that he can do what he wants in his sovereign state with his nuclear facilities, BUT with the understanding that what he will have as weapons in 5 years time, we have 100,000 times more. then sit back, enjoy some Texas BBQ with some Persian sweets and faludeh, and let the boys get their s*&t together.
if not, we are all going to pay as we have been, and i really don't want to have to always look over my shoulder at home or abroad. as i am sure the iranians dont want to watch the skies for incoming.
NUFF SAID !
i have been finding it fascinating how now, through our own intelligence reports, we find that Iran is not on the verge of killing us with nuclear missiles. i wonder how "W" feels about this. was it something he and the "Tin Man" planned this way, sort of like being nice guys to calm things down and get the Annapolis meetings approved by the Iranians? or is it really something he was not aware of prior to it's release and now he has to do a bit of back pedaling? either way their approach is not productive.
i have former colleagues from a previous airline who are are iranian. i meet them at a training course in germany, where we spent four weeks together, learning, studying, dining, hiking, shopping, and being human beings together. one colleague was working full time and caring for his ailing father who was suffering from cancer. the other was recently engaged and missing his fiance' very much during the four weeks. we came to understand that we were all in the same boat, working to make ends meet while trying to set up our lives for the future of our families.
what gets me is that during this four week period in 2003, iran had a moderate leader, khatami, and peaceful overtures were being made by both the US and Iran. so what i want to know is what happened? yes the got a hardliner into their administration, just like we did. but does that mean we have to go through this crap of my guns are bigger than yours?
here is the solution. "W" needs to publicly state he wants a real face to face with Ahmadinajaket. two guys sitting down getting to business. he makes it very clear that we both need to start over and get past all the b.s. and find solutions together to the problems in the region. at the same time he lets Amadinajaket know that he can do what he wants in his sovereign state with his nuclear facilities, BUT with the understanding that what he will have as weapons in 5 years time, we have 100,000 times more. then sit back, enjoy some Texas BBQ with some Persian sweets and faludeh, and let the boys get their s*&t together.
if not, we are all going to pay as we have been, and i really don't want to have to always look over my shoulder at home or abroad. as i am sure the iranians dont want to watch the skies for incoming.
NUFF SAID !
Thursday, December 06, 2007
06DEC07 / 23:45 / LAPTOP
the old timer has finally arrived into the modern age. i am now wireless....BIIIIIIIGGGGG Deal.
the benefits is now i can watch my 4 yr old do her kamikaze tumbling as opposed to just getting the audio. now i can say, "hey ! don't even think about it!" as opposed to "Hey! what are you doing ?!"
it is also warmer and more ergonomic at the dinning room table, though the desk i built is an awesome piece of furniture!
this morning was st.nicholas day, and my daughter rushed to see if her boots were filled with goodies or coal. to her joy she found a chocolate santa, wish she was able to start this evening.
she also opened another day on her advent calendar. morning chocolate is the best!
after i dropped her off in school, i activated our new cell phones with verizon. now we are totally connected through verizon, fios and wireless. we even get a discount on the bill because of this. i am still working on that free 19" hdtv. pinky dinky doo will be so much more intense now !
i took today off from work, as i still had time carried from 2006, and i wanted to keep on working on my research paper. i may have gotten a bit too involved and collected more reference data than i planned. damn brainstorming, just cant get a calm tropical day in the membrane.
slowly but surely i feel the christmas, or yule tide, sensation getting into me. not that i am any longer big on the religious aspect of it, as i so delicately stated in class, but more into the feel of the weather and family, especially at night. the clear crisp air, the light touch of snow outside highlights the warmth of the home scented with the pine and cinnamon. i cant wait till we make our first batch of Gleuwein, a warm german mulled spice wine consisting of red wine, austrian rum, cloves, cinnamon, and sugar. we also get a nice bottle of homemade egg nog from a family friend, great taste, high octane. al the right things to warm you up and get that cheer into you!
well that's it for me tonight. you all stay warm and "keeeeep smiling". oops, that one belongs to easter time, then "unga bunga binga bunga,bunga binga unga bunga!"
the benefits is now i can watch my 4 yr old do her kamikaze tumbling as opposed to just getting the audio. now i can say, "hey ! don't even think about it!" as opposed to "Hey! what are you doing ?!"
it is also warmer and more ergonomic at the dinning room table, though the desk i built is an awesome piece of furniture!
this morning was st.nicholas day, and my daughter rushed to see if her boots were filled with goodies or coal. to her joy she found a chocolate santa, wish she was able to start this evening.
she also opened another day on her advent calendar. morning chocolate is the best!
after i dropped her off in school, i activated our new cell phones with verizon. now we are totally connected through verizon, fios and wireless. we even get a discount on the bill because of this. i am still working on that free 19" hdtv. pinky dinky doo will be so much more intense now !
i took today off from work, as i still had time carried from 2006, and i wanted to keep on working on my research paper. i may have gotten a bit too involved and collected more reference data than i planned. damn brainstorming, just cant get a calm tropical day in the membrane.
slowly but surely i feel the christmas, or yule tide, sensation getting into me. not that i am any longer big on the religious aspect of it, as i so delicately stated in class, but more into the feel of the weather and family, especially at night. the clear crisp air, the light touch of snow outside highlights the warmth of the home scented with the pine and cinnamon. i cant wait till we make our first batch of Gleuwein, a warm german mulled spice wine consisting of red wine, austrian rum, cloves, cinnamon, and sugar. we also get a nice bottle of homemade egg nog from a family friend, great taste, high octane. al the right things to warm you up and get that cheer into you!
well that's it for me tonight. you all stay warm and "keeeeep smiling". oops, that one belongs to easter time, then "unga bunga binga bunga,bunga binga unga bunga!"
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
05DEC07 / 23:45 / LAPTOP
This will serve as the blog for 03-05DEC07
well, been out of action on the blog for the past two days due to lack of sleep.
03DEC07 MON - 04DEC07 TUE
i was up at 06:00 DEC 3 until 04:30 DEC 4, 22 1/2 hours straight, 12 of which were at work. So, needless to say that when i had to get up DEC 4 at 07:30, i was in limbo, physically and mentally.
i managed to get up, showered and dressed by 08:00 so i could take my 4 yr old to school, which is, thankfully, only across the street. but with the way i felt it could have been a mile that i had to walk. i am glad that she loves pre-k, she just gave me a peck on the cheek and off she went.
once i got back home, i set the alarms, yes all of them, for 10:30, so i could at least get 2 hours of sleep before i had to pick her up from pre-k. the 2 hours never went by so fast, it felt like i had just closed my eyes. when i got to the school the kids came out right away, normally we have to wait. this was good as my daughter had a 11:30 doctors appointment for an annual check up. the ever popular question was raised " papa, am i getting a shot ? ", to which i replied with the ever cautious, " i'm not sure, but don't worry, it will be OK no matter what".
we waited until 12:30 for our 11:30 appointment, always wondered why they even bother giving you a set time when they know it never works that way. during the wait i must have had about 10 two minute power naps, always catching myself just before i really went off to ZZZ land.
as usual, my daughter hides from the doctor. too bad because my wife and i really like him, but my daughter is shy around men and probably only associates him with shots. the women doctors she has seen have been for sick visit and there are no shots involved with those times.
while the shot is being prepared, the doctor and i play our "spelling" game, where we both agreed it would only last till first grade and then we cant play it anymore. the shot as usual brings the tears before, during, and after, which always take thirty minutes to subside, even with the lollipop. after we get an excellent bill of health and after paying the bill, we are out and into the cold.
as a soothing gesture, i suggest pizza at Cirros, which is across the street from the doctors office. this bring the smile i am looking for, so off we go ! i have never seen my kid eat a whole slice and half a sicilian slice so quietly and quickly before, the trauma must have kick started the hunger!
after pizza we go back home for an hour before it is off to pick up my 14 yr old for the Tues Glenwood Landing to Floral Park to Garden City to Floral Park to Glenwood Landing shuffle. my 4yr old always passes out in the car during afternoon drives, so i have a little quiet time. we get to my 14yr olds high school early, so i too get to pass out for 15 minutes, i think i am now up to 5 hrs and 45 minutes of sleep for being up for 27 hours, not bad.
my 14 yr old arrives knocking on the window. she gets in and tells me of all the school work and classroom drama. i try to be cool, fortunately my tiredness keeps me from preaching to much and limits my replies to " i hear ya". we practice some German together for her upcoming test in a few hours, she has nothing to worry about !! before we get home, we hit the store for a pre-cooked chicken, i made sweet potatoes and broccoli for the bird. we all sit down to eat, and then its off again, to Garden City.
when we get back home, my wife comes home shortly, i leave soon thereafter to p/u my 14yr old, but mainly to get to the parking lot for some extra ZZZZ time. once my daughter comes out, we hit best buy for a wireless USB for this laptop. actually really nice people in best buy. then off to Glenwood Landing, a quick turn around and back home to pass out.
05DEC07 WED
today was more mellow. i caught on some sleep and had a great start in the morning. had a quick nap before i picked up my daughter and we had a fun lunch at home together. i got to some laundry and lots of reviewing for my math test this saturday, hope i don't blow it.
in the after noon took my daughter to her dance class while getting all excited by the snow. we got there just before the crowd. once she was in the studio i was heading back to the house. wrapped up some studying, got dinner ready and off i went to p/u the tiny dancer. we hustled to the bakery to get some bread for the sauce, and some sauce at the liquor store for papa ! Mama had a business dinner so she couldn't join us, so we got to more bread than usual !
we watch 2 classic christmas movies, the first christmas and santa claus is coming to town, both just as i remembered them when i was 4 yrs old. after the movies offto brush our teeth and into bed. during the second story, we were surprised when my wife snuck in on us. that also ended my daughter's winding down, as she was so excited to see mama.
i left the two of them to fall asleep together, and i wrapped up some more math. after that, i am now here playing catch up on the blogs and hope to install the wireless USB set up.
keep yr fingers crossed for me !
well, been out of action on the blog for the past two days due to lack of sleep.
03DEC07 MON - 04DEC07 TUE
i was up at 06:00 DEC 3 until 04:30 DEC 4, 22 1/2 hours straight, 12 of which were at work. So, needless to say that when i had to get up DEC 4 at 07:30, i was in limbo, physically and mentally.
i managed to get up, showered and dressed by 08:00 so i could take my 4 yr old to school, which is, thankfully, only across the street. but with the way i felt it could have been a mile that i had to walk. i am glad that she loves pre-k, she just gave me a peck on the cheek and off she went.
once i got back home, i set the alarms, yes all of them, for 10:30, so i could at least get 2 hours of sleep before i had to pick her up from pre-k. the 2 hours never went by so fast, it felt like i had just closed my eyes. when i got to the school the kids came out right away, normally we have to wait. this was good as my daughter had a 11:30 doctors appointment for an annual check up. the ever popular question was raised " papa, am i getting a shot ? ", to which i replied with the ever cautious, " i'm not sure, but don't worry, it will be OK no matter what".
we waited until 12:30 for our 11:30 appointment, always wondered why they even bother giving you a set time when they know it never works that way. during the wait i must have had about 10 two minute power naps, always catching myself just before i really went off to ZZZ land.
as usual, my daughter hides from the doctor. too bad because my wife and i really like him, but my daughter is shy around men and probably only associates him with shots. the women doctors she has seen have been for sick visit and there are no shots involved with those times.
while the shot is being prepared, the doctor and i play our "spelling" game, where we both agreed it would only last till first grade and then we cant play it anymore. the shot as usual brings the tears before, during, and after, which always take thirty minutes to subside, even with the lollipop. after we get an excellent bill of health and after paying the bill, we are out and into the cold.
as a soothing gesture, i suggest pizza at Cirros, which is across the street from the doctors office. this bring the smile i am looking for, so off we go ! i have never seen my kid eat a whole slice and half a sicilian slice so quietly and quickly before, the trauma must have kick started the hunger!
after pizza we go back home for an hour before it is off to pick up my 14 yr old for the Tues Glenwood Landing to Floral Park to Garden City to Floral Park to Glenwood Landing shuffle. my 4yr old always passes out in the car during afternoon drives, so i have a little quiet time. we get to my 14yr olds high school early, so i too get to pass out for 15 minutes, i think i am now up to 5 hrs and 45 minutes of sleep for being up for 27 hours, not bad.
my 14 yr old arrives knocking on the window. she gets in and tells me of all the school work and classroom drama. i try to be cool, fortunately my tiredness keeps me from preaching to much and limits my replies to " i hear ya". we practice some German together for her upcoming test in a few hours, she has nothing to worry about !! before we get home, we hit the store for a pre-cooked chicken, i made sweet potatoes and broccoli for the bird. we all sit down to eat, and then its off again, to Garden City.
when we get back home, my wife comes home shortly, i leave soon thereafter to p/u my 14yr old, but mainly to get to the parking lot for some extra ZZZZ time. once my daughter comes out, we hit best buy for a wireless USB for this laptop. actually really nice people in best buy. then off to Glenwood Landing, a quick turn around and back home to pass out.
05DEC07 WED
today was more mellow. i caught on some sleep and had a great start in the morning. had a quick nap before i picked up my daughter and we had a fun lunch at home together. i got to some laundry and lots of reviewing for my math test this saturday, hope i don't blow it.
in the after noon took my daughter to her dance class while getting all excited by the snow. we got there just before the crowd. once she was in the studio i was heading back to the house. wrapped up some studying, got dinner ready and off i went to p/u the tiny dancer. we hustled to the bakery to get some bread for the sauce, and some sauce at the liquor store for papa ! Mama had a business dinner so she couldn't join us, so we got to more bread than usual !
we watch 2 classic christmas movies, the first christmas and santa claus is coming to town, both just as i remembered them when i was 4 yrs old. after the movies offto brush our teeth and into bed. during the second story, we were surprised when my wife snuck in on us. that also ended my daughter's winding down, as she was so excited to see mama.
i left the two of them to fall asleep together, and i wrapped up some more math. after that, i am now here playing catch up on the blogs and hope to install the wireless USB set up.
keep yr fingers crossed for me !
Sunday, December 02, 2007
02DEC07 / 23:40 / WORK
OK, so i was wrong about the snow. but i cd have meant 2008 and not the end of 2007.
i was fighting with the alarm clock this morning, but i finally managed to get my ass out of bed and ready to go by 0800. almost half way to NCC i was going to call Prof. K to tell her i was running late, when i noticed a text message alert. she sent a broadcast to advise class was cancelled on account of the snow. this was a drag because: a) i was almost half way there. b) i look forward to the class. c) after class dining is one of my sunday highlights. i keep the phone on mute when i get home, so as not to be disturbed by work calls. i take the mute off once i am up for the day.
at any rate, i went back home, stopping to p/u some bread from the bakery. made a nice little snack and proceeded to watch stupid movies until i passed out. woke up at 1430, slowly got ready for work and Presto! here i still am. it will be another late one due to the weather. it started raining at JFK and not sure if the planes need de- icing. hopefully the roads wont be to icy on the way home, not driving a 76 Buick any more, then i wouldn't have to worry.
i was fighting with the alarm clock this morning, but i finally managed to get my ass out of bed and ready to go by 0800. almost half way to NCC i was going to call Prof. K to tell her i was running late, when i noticed a text message alert. she sent a broadcast to advise class was cancelled on account of the snow. this was a drag because: a) i was almost half way there. b) i look forward to the class. c) after class dining is one of my sunday highlights. i keep the phone on mute when i get home, so as not to be disturbed by work calls. i take the mute off once i am up for the day.
at any rate, i went back home, stopping to p/u some bread from the bakery. made a nice little snack and proceeded to watch stupid movies until i passed out. woke up at 1430, slowly got ready for work and Presto! here i still am. it will be another late one due to the weather. it started raining at JFK and not sure if the planes need de- icing. hopefully the roads wont be to icy on the way home, not driving a 76 Buick any more, then i wouldn't have to worry.
02DEC07 / 01:40 / WORK
i am going to count this blog for 01-02DEC , since i am late for 01, really early for 02.
it is starting to look alot like christmas at work. the mail has been picking up like crazy, mostly military mail for our troops overseas, god bless ' em. the weather as even taken a turn for the better of the season. i think this winter will be one of the coldest we've seen in a while, but i don't think we are going to get hit with the snow as much this season, just a gut feeling.
it is amazing how many stores went from halloween to christmas by end of october. i get a kick out of people who are already buying their live christmas (ODIN) trees. don't they realize they are not going to keep that long?
my wife wanted to put up the christmas lights outside the house last week. i firmly said we have to wait until at least december 1. she was planning to do this today, i will find out when i get home at 0300. she did do a great job on the dinning/living room area.
well, i am toast, in bed at 0300, up at 0600, in at 0300, and up at 0600 again, i shd start playing these numbers.
see you all in a few. hoped you slept well.
it is starting to look alot like christmas at work. the mail has been picking up like crazy, mostly military mail for our troops overseas, god bless ' em. the weather as even taken a turn for the better of the season. i think this winter will be one of the coldest we've seen in a while, but i don't think we are going to get hit with the snow as much this season, just a gut feeling.
it is amazing how many stores went from halloween to christmas by end of october. i get a kick out of people who are already buying their live christmas (ODIN) trees. don't they realize they are not going to keep that long?
my wife wanted to put up the christmas lights outside the house last week. i firmly said we have to wait until at least december 1. she was planning to do this today, i will find out when i get home at 0300. she did do a great job on the dinning/living room area.
well, i am toast, in bed at 0300, up at 0600, in at 0300, and up at 0600 again, i shd start playing these numbers.
see you all in a few. hoped you slept well.
Friday, November 30, 2007
30NOV07 / 23:50 / WORK
don't you love it when you get up before everyone else in the house, fall back asleep, and then when they get up later, they call you a sleepy head. little do they know that you were up an hour before them, and were kind enough not to wake them up at 0500. no, you just watched the news quietly, then slowly nodded out at 0630. you could have made the breakfast you were craving for , but chose not to. then when they wake up, they make all sorts of noises, because the feel you shouldn't be sleeping anymore so why should they move around quietly.
this is what happens when i don't get my cup of tea until 11:30, i carry the grumpiness with me all day. at least i was told that today. i sternly questioned an office employee tonight as to why they we rent doing things according to the agreed procedures. i guess the got a bit emotional and called their boss to complain that i hurt their feelings. little do they realize that their boss always comes to me for updates on the progress of those in the warehouse and office. since i have always told him things pint blank, he knows the deal from the get go. so this agent will get a visit from their boss tomorrow, not for consoling, but to find out why they weren't doing their job as they shd be.
lessen of the day: be careful if your going to be a tattle-tale.
this is what happens when i don't get my cup of tea until 11:30, i carry the grumpiness with me all day. at least i was told that today. i sternly questioned an office employee tonight as to why they we rent doing things according to the agreed procedures. i guess the got a bit emotional and called their boss to complain that i hurt their feelings. little do they realize that their boss always comes to me for updates on the progress of those in the warehouse and office. since i have always told him things pint blank, he knows the deal from the get go. so this agent will get a visit from their boss tomorrow, not for consoling, but to find out why they weren't doing their job as they shd be.
lessen of the day: be careful if your going to be a tattle-tale.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
29NOV07 / 23:45 / WORK
arghhhh, back at work. just cdnt get into things today. have been feeling tired for quite some time. not like i am coming down with something, just tired. having a hard time shaking it.
had a good start of the day. got a lot done while my daughter was in school. many things i shd have taken care of since monday, but i have been procrastinating lately, do not like that at all.
i hope to get some time set aside so i can wrap up the research paper. i have really been thinking up some good subject matter, just have to finalize and put all to official paper status.
i really need to kick start myself. i definitely to not like this lack of drive that i have been feeling these past few weeks. seems the only place i can get started is in sundays class.
sorry, wish i had something better for y'all today. fell as if i have let the blog down tonight.
had a good start of the day. got a lot done while my daughter was in school. many things i shd have taken care of since monday, but i have been procrastinating lately, do not like that at all.
i hope to get some time set aside so i can wrap up the research paper. i have really been thinking up some good subject matter, just have to finalize and put all to official paper status.
i really need to kick start myself. i definitely to not like this lack of drive that i have been feeling these past few weeks. seems the only place i can get started is in sundays class.
sorry, wish i had something better for y'all today. fell as if i have let the blog down tonight.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
28NOV07 / 23:20 / LAPTOP
some ironic television tonight. after my daughter fell asleep, i began watching the last hour of the republican debate on cnn. they were being asked youtube questions, mostly by young idealistic college age kids. the reason i state it as such, is because none of there questions got to the nitty gritty. sure they asked some heavy questions about iraq, abortion, gay/lesbian issues, but none really reached out for the middle class, the questions you and i want answers to.
questions like when are you going to s&*t or get off the pot regarding iraq. yeah not all of us agree about the invasions validity, but know we are in it and it has to dealt with and fast. you either go in guns a blazing and level the place and put the fear of god into the region, or you just say, that is it, enough of this tit for tat, and leave. those are the two choices.
no one asked, why is it that there are less local merchants staying in business, and less consumer goods manufactured in the USA for our purchasing. why is it that all goods we wear or use are made in in china, pakistan, or bangladesh, and that the only retailers showing a profit are the wal-marts??? where did our choices go ????
who cares if one is a mormon, one has been married three times, one is pro-life, one is pro-choice, and one is a character actor. i think cnn cheated the public by only presenting these sensationalized general questions by the "youth" of america. next time use the questioned submitted by those who have to support those kids.
now the irony.
when the first commercial break came on , i surfed and found the movie "kingdom of heaven" which is about the crusaders and saracens fight over jerusalem. the crusaders had there internal treachery and disputes, the saracens, a united force under saladin.
guess the time they aint "a changing". sorry bob.
questions like when are you going to s&*t or get off the pot regarding iraq. yeah not all of us agree about the invasions validity, but know we are in it and it has to dealt with and fast. you either go in guns a blazing and level the place and put the fear of god into the region, or you just say, that is it, enough of this tit for tat, and leave. those are the two choices.
no one asked, why is it that there are less local merchants staying in business, and less consumer goods manufactured in the USA for our purchasing. why is it that all goods we wear or use are made in in china, pakistan, or bangladesh, and that the only retailers showing a profit are the wal-marts??? where did our choices go ????
who cares if one is a mormon, one has been married three times, one is pro-life, one is pro-choice, and one is a character actor. i think cnn cheated the public by only presenting these sensationalized general questions by the "youth" of america. next time use the questioned submitted by those who have to support those kids.
now the irony.
when the first commercial break came on , i surfed and found the movie "kingdom of heaven" which is about the crusaders and saracens fight over jerusalem. the crusaders had there internal treachery and disputes, the saracens, a united force under saladin.
guess the time they aint "a changing". sorry bob.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
27NOV07 / 23:50 / LAPTOP
yesterday i had the rare occasion of being off from work. it felt so strange and was weird being out of my "friday" routine. it worked out well as i didnt need to dive my daughter to my in-laws in that down poor. got caught up in the day so i didn't blog. sorry about that.
in the evening i just need to phase out after my daughter finally fell asleep. i watched two cool shows. first was on the fox soccer channel, called Premier LG Fan Zone. this is a program where two fans , one for each of the opposing teams, do the commentary. the two English "blokes" they had on were a pisser. it was felt as if i was listening to the dialogue of "lock, stock, and two smoking barrels" while watching a soccer game. Brilliant !!!
the second was a repeat of "get ready to boogie-when T Rex ruled the world" a documentary on the guitarist Marc Bolan and his band T Rex. it was actually about the making of a movie of one of his concerts filmed/produced by Ringo Starr. it is amazing to see so much footage of this incredible musician and artist. you come away realizing how much he influenced rock music as we know it today. a must for anyone who cares about real music and talent. check it out, you WILL thank me !!!
today was the tuesday daddy shuffle. got a good 5 mile walk in before i had to p/u my youngest from school. i hope to be able to do the same tomorrow. but i think i may have some plumbing to fix in the house so the walk may not happen, but i will try.
i was able to have dinner with my to girls, and we had a blast in the car telling jokes. four year olds have the best belly laugh, so sincere and cute at the same time. tonight was easy to get my youngest to sleep, only two stories and off she went to lala land. no i got my second wind, and will be the night owl again, up till at least 0200. will need real caffeine in the morning, will hit the italian bakery for real espresso, and at a real price too, $1.50. and thats after my "cuppa" tea !!!
in the evening i just need to phase out after my daughter finally fell asleep. i watched two cool shows. first was on the fox soccer channel, called Premier LG Fan Zone. this is a program where two fans , one for each of the opposing teams, do the commentary. the two English "blokes" they had on were a pisser. it was felt as if i was listening to the dialogue of "lock, stock, and two smoking barrels" while watching a soccer game. Brilliant !!!
the second was a repeat of "get ready to boogie-when T Rex ruled the world" a documentary on the guitarist Marc Bolan and his band T Rex. it was actually about the making of a movie of one of his concerts filmed/produced by Ringo Starr. it is amazing to see so much footage of this incredible musician and artist. you come away realizing how much he influenced rock music as we know it today. a must for anyone who cares about real music and talent. check it out, you WILL thank me !!!
today was the tuesday daddy shuffle. got a good 5 mile walk in before i had to p/u my youngest from school. i hope to be able to do the same tomorrow. but i think i may have some plumbing to fix in the house so the walk may not happen, but i will try.
i was able to have dinner with my to girls, and we had a blast in the car telling jokes. four year olds have the best belly laugh, so sincere and cute at the same time. tonight was easy to get my youngest to sleep, only two stories and off she went to lala land. no i got my second wind, and will be the night owl again, up till at least 0200. will need real caffeine in the morning, will hit the italian bakery for real espresso, and at a real price too, $1.50. and thats after my "cuppa" tea !!!
Sunday, November 25, 2007
25NOV / 23:50 / WORK
so far so good today. got to sleep in until 09:30. first time in a long time that i got six hours of sleep. it sure does make a difference.
work went well so not much to say about it. just wish i could get out on time for a change. at least it is getting better, so it doesnt feel as chaotic anymore.
while drive from the new office to here, i was listening to Little Steven's Underground Garage radio show. he plays really cool music and always has some cool stories. tonight he discussed how the song "Hang On Sloopy" became the state rock song for Ohio. wont go into detail but it was pretty cool. hopefully i get out in time to catch the rest of the show.
work went well so not much to say about it. just wish i could get out on time for a change. at least it is getting better, so it doesnt feel as chaotic anymore.
while drive from the new office to here, i was listening to Little Steven's Underground Garage radio show. he plays really cool music and always has some cool stories. tonight he discussed how the song "Hang On Sloopy" became the state rock song for Ohio. wont go into detail but it was pretty cool. hopefully i get out in time to catch the rest of the show.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
24NOV07 / 23:50 / WORK
the wife and kids headed out east this afternoon, so i am solo for tonight and tomorrow morning. it is amazing how this opportunity arises and i got nothing to do but work. i think i will misbehave and venture to Bayside for some White Castles and get a really violent pay per view that i can watch with the volume all the way up! I could also put one one of my many concert dvds and run it through the sound system at "Peteymetal" volume, which is even louder than "11" !!
but, we all know what will really happen. i will go straight home. get comfortable on the couch in front of the tv and pass out. i will sleep till about 09:00. then i will knock out my math work, and continue on the research paper. and if the weather is bearable, head out for a long and fast walk.
man, times have changed!! wouldn't trade it for the world!!!
but, we all know what will really happen. i will go straight home. get comfortable on the couch in front of the tv and pass out. i will sleep till about 09:00. then i will knock out my math work, and continue on the research paper. and if the weather is bearable, head out for a long and fast walk.
man, times have changed!! wouldn't trade it for the world!!!
Friday, November 23, 2007
23NOV07 / 23:55 / WORK
today was another good day. got to sleep in until 0900. my wife got out early to do battle with the rest of the shopping world, and didn't get back in until 13:30. so me and the girls had a pancake breakfast, lounged a bit, and then cleaned up the house. i tortured them and made them listen to my music for a couple of hours. hey, a little headbanging music never hurt anyone!
we all and a nice lunch together, my fathers recipe for fried potatoes "brat kartoffeln" and some franks from the butcher. my wife and i finally got a chance to have a beer together. it was a pleasant feeling have all my immediate family together under one roof and at the same table sharing a meal together. it doesn't happen too often.
work went well. got some things straightened out with our handling agents management. i think they are getting the message.
these are the times when reflection on a day's events is important. it put everything in perspective, and helps you get through it all. it makes you realize it ain't sooo bad after all.
too bad it will all be over Dec 2012.
we all and a nice lunch together, my fathers recipe for fried potatoes "brat kartoffeln" and some franks from the butcher. my wife and i finally got a chance to have a beer together. it was a pleasant feeling have all my immediate family together under one roof and at the same table sharing a meal together. it doesn't happen too often.
work went well. got some things straightened out with our handling agents management. i think they are getting the message.
these are the times when reflection on a day's events is important. it put everything in perspective, and helps you get through it all. it makes you realize it ain't sooo bad after all.
too bad it will all be over Dec 2012.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
22NOV07 / 23:10 / WORK
Hu - F*&#in - ray, finally a night where things have a semblance of normalcy!!! it has been way too long since i have been able to blog before midnight, not to mention on time.
the day started well. got about 4 hours of sound sleep. had my 4 yr old wake me up with some singing of Missing Persons "Words". got myself together in time to p/u my 14yr old as she is with me this weekend. all this w/o any caffeine !!!
we made it to glendale on time for our early turkey dinner, held early so i could enjoy it before going to work. i got to see my sister in law and my adorable niece, missed them both very much, so it was great to see them again.
work went very well. i think they got tired of my ranting liked a crazed banshee from hell, as things were done early and correctly. i made sure to acknowledge this will all involved, and told them this is the example the should follow.
now, i just have to wait for the birds to be airborne, do my post departure paperwork, and i may even be out of here on time myself.
hope you all enjoyed yourselves and your families today.
the day started well. got about 4 hours of sound sleep. had my 4 yr old wake me up with some singing of Missing Persons "Words". got myself together in time to p/u my 14yr old as she is with me this weekend. all this w/o any caffeine !!!
we made it to glendale on time for our early turkey dinner, held early so i could enjoy it before going to work. i got to see my sister in law and my adorable niece, missed them both very much, so it was great to see them again.
work went very well. i think they got tired of my ranting liked a crazed banshee from hell, as things were done early and correctly. i made sure to acknowledge this will all involved, and told them this is the example the should follow.
now, i just have to wait for the birds to be airborne, do my post departure paperwork, and i may even be out of here on time myself.
hope you all enjoyed yourselves and your families today.
19-21NOV07 / 01:05 22NOV / WORK
i haven't been blogging since Sunday, 18NOV, because i have allowed work to get the better of me.
on Mon the 19th, i was up from 07:00 until 05:00 20NOV. i then had to get up at 07:30 20NOV, so after 2 hours of sleep, i had to ready for the usual busy tuesday. i took my youngest to school at 08:30 and tried to follow my wife's direction and get a little sleep before i had to p/u my daughter @ 11:00. this proved impossible as i kept waking up every 10 - 15 minutes in fear of oversleeping and no being there to p/u my daughter.
after lunch, i tried to catch a few minutes of sleep. got about 45 minutes before it was time to go to glenwood landing to p/u my oldest daughter for german school. we got back to our house and ran a few errands before heading out to the pizzeria. those were some of the best slices i had in a while, and the red wine went down too easy. my wife meet us at 18:00 and the oldest an i head off to garden city for german school. got stuck at all railroad crossings so we were 5 minutes late.
i stayed at the school and parked in a nice and quiet area to sleep for a bit. all in all i got about 1 hour of solid sleep. at 20:15 class was over and the ride began back to glenwwod landing. on the way back i stopped at starbucks for some coffee, go figure.
when i got home everyone was already in bed, so i grabbed a book and head for the couch. passed out and next thing i knew it was 06:30 on WED 21 NOV. i had alot to due before i went in to work, on my day off. once i got all those things out of the way, it was time to p/u the little one from school and get lunch ready. a few hours in between to catch up on some more paperwork and bills and off it was to tap class @ 15:45. my wife got home at about 17:00 and off i went to get here where i will be until at least 03:00 22NOV, turkey day. i get to come back at 16:00 for more fun, after turkey dinner @ 13:00, for which i will have to get up at 08:00 to p/u my oldest and get ready for the day.
hope you have a great thanksgiving and enjoy your naps on the couch !!!!
on Mon the 19th, i was up from 07:00 until 05:00 20NOV. i then had to get up at 07:30 20NOV, so after 2 hours of sleep, i had to ready for the usual busy tuesday. i took my youngest to school at 08:30 and tried to follow my wife's direction and get a little sleep before i had to p/u my daughter @ 11:00. this proved impossible as i kept waking up every 10 - 15 minutes in fear of oversleeping and no being there to p/u my daughter.
after lunch, i tried to catch a few minutes of sleep. got about 45 minutes before it was time to go to glenwood landing to p/u my oldest daughter for german school. we got back to our house and ran a few errands before heading out to the pizzeria. those were some of the best slices i had in a while, and the red wine went down too easy. my wife meet us at 18:00 and the oldest an i head off to garden city for german school. got stuck at all railroad crossings so we were 5 minutes late.
i stayed at the school and parked in a nice and quiet area to sleep for a bit. all in all i got about 1 hour of solid sleep. at 20:15 class was over and the ride began back to glenwwod landing. on the way back i stopped at starbucks for some coffee, go figure.
when i got home everyone was already in bed, so i grabbed a book and head for the couch. passed out and next thing i knew it was 06:30 on WED 21 NOV. i had alot to due before i went in to work, on my day off. once i got all those things out of the way, it was time to p/u the little one from school and get lunch ready. a few hours in between to catch up on some more paperwork and bills and off it was to tap class @ 15:45. my wife got home at about 17:00 and off i went to get here where i will be until at least 03:00 22NOV, turkey day. i get to come back at 16:00 for more fun, after turkey dinner @ 13:00, for which i will have to get up at 08:00 to p/u my oldest and get ready for the day.
hope you have a great thanksgiving and enjoy your naps on the couch !!!!
Monday, November 19, 2007
18NOV07 / 00:45 +1 / WORK
when i got home from class today my daughter was waiting for me by hiding in a big cardboard box. she is always trying to surprise me or sneak up on me, as i do to her. this time she really got me as i passed the box. we all had a good laugh and lots of hugs. sure was a good way to start the transition from a stimulating morning to going to work tonight.
another late night at the old warehouse, but tonight was alot better and smoother. so i really cant complain, and i did point out the difference between last night and tonight to the staff. i told them what they did tonight was a vast improvement fro, last night and that these steps should be followed for every flight.
in the middle of the shift my colleague shouts across the warehouse. i run over to see whats up, and he tells me his wife's water broke. with that i grab his paper work and chase him out of the building so he can rush home to NJ. hope all the best for the them.
this probably means i will be working a few extra hours and possibly days to cover his absence. if you think about it it isn't such a bad thing, the OT will be much appreciated this time year.
another late night at the old warehouse, but tonight was alot better and smoother. so i really cant complain, and i did point out the difference between last night and tonight to the staff. i told them what they did tonight was a vast improvement fro, last night and that these steps should be followed for every flight.
in the middle of the shift my colleague shouts across the warehouse. i run over to see whats up, and he tells me his wife's water broke. with that i grab his paper work and chase him out of the building so he can rush home to NJ. hope all the best for the them.
this probably means i will be working a few extra hours and possibly days to cover his absence. if you think about it it isn't such a bad thing, the OT will be much appreciated this time year.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
17NOV07 / 02:00+1 / WORK
OK, still at work @ 2am 18NOV, so this cd count as 18NOV blog, but i will count it for the 17th.
I had all intentions to get here before midnite, but alas, my plot was foiled by the Stupid Ones again, damn them. Little do they know that the have awoken the hibernating spirit of the Evil Pete, the crazed banshee from hell. Ohh have pity on there silly mortal souls tomorrow after 16:00 EST.
and no for something completely different.......
on the way from the new place to the old place i was able to catch the end of the Ghostie Show on WFDU 89.1 FM, and again some cool stuff. this time it was vintage Elvis Costello, when he still looked like Poindexter from Felix the Cat. The savage beast's soothing continued when i fired up the pandora radio site and cranked up the peteymetal tunes. nothing like a cup of java and Black Sabbath at 02:00 in the morning. breakfast, or in this case a nite time snack, of champions!!
.... and champions are mushrooms in french....and you thought i cdnt get any sillier...pish-posh
I had all intentions to get here before midnite, but alas, my plot was foiled by the Stupid Ones again, damn them. Little do they know that the have awoken the hibernating spirit of the Evil Pete, the crazed banshee from hell. Ohh have pity on there silly mortal souls tomorrow after 16:00 EST.
and no for something completely different.......
on the way from the new place to the old place i was able to catch the end of the Ghostie Show on WFDU 89.1 FM, and again some cool stuff. this time it was vintage Elvis Costello, when he still looked like Poindexter from Felix the Cat. The savage beast's soothing continued when i fired up the pandora radio site and cranked up the peteymetal tunes. nothing like a cup of java and Black Sabbath at 02:00 in the morning. breakfast, or in this case a nite time snack, of champions!!
.... and champions are mushrooms in french....and you thought i cdnt get any sillier...pish-posh
Friday, November 16, 2007
16NOV07 / 00:05 / WORK
OK, I know. i just finished the last blog and now i am entering the next days just a few minutes into the next day. yes, i feel a bit guilty, normally i wouldn't do this, BUT, i know that if i don't do it now, i wont get it done tomorrow, just got that strange feeling, you know how it goes.
speaking of strange feelings, i think, not sure, but i think i saw an orb in my living room last early this morning. it was another one of those nights where we all passed out in front of the TV. at about 23:30, i got my wife and daughter into bed, and i stayed up to watch the BBC news. about an hour into the news, i started to doze off, even though i tried very hard to fight it and stay awake.
after what seemed only a few seconds, i felt as if someone called my name, but i could not confirm the voice, just that i knew it was familiar. as i opened my eyes and started to sit up, in the far north corner of the living room just below the ceiling i could make out a distinct round light. it looked just like a christmas ornaments, silver and sparkling, and it was in the exact area of the house where we put up the christmas tree.
my V. O . R. said to me, that it was just the effects of getting up too fast from a prone position, and the result of a minor head rush. but in this particular instance i choose to believe otherwise. for whatever reason, the voice and orb fit together, not in any eerie manner, but more in a soothing, leading way.
i got up and went into the bedroom, to find wife and child sound asleep. maybe it was them willing me to come to bed, with a little help from some "friends".
speaking of strange feelings, i think, not sure, but i think i saw an orb in my living room last early this morning. it was another one of those nights where we all passed out in front of the TV. at about 23:30, i got my wife and daughter into bed, and i stayed up to watch the BBC news. about an hour into the news, i started to doze off, even though i tried very hard to fight it and stay awake.
after what seemed only a few seconds, i felt as if someone called my name, but i could not confirm the voice, just that i knew it was familiar. as i opened my eyes and started to sit up, in the far north corner of the living room just below the ceiling i could make out a distinct round light. it looked just like a christmas ornaments, silver and sparkling, and it was in the exact area of the house where we put up the christmas tree.
my V. O . R. said to me, that it was just the effects of getting up too fast from a prone position, and the result of a minor head rush. but in this particular instance i choose to believe otherwise. for whatever reason, the voice and orb fit together, not in any eerie manner, but more in a soothing, leading way.
i got up and went into the bedroom, to find wife and child sound asleep. maybe it was them willing me to come to bed, with a little help from some "friends".
Thursday, November 15, 2007
15NOV07 / 23:55 / WORK
well it is monday again for me. started off a bit too lazy for my taste, but that is my own fault. feel a bit sluggish lately, no drive. i have got to get up early and stay up, go out for a walk and get some mileage in, i truly believe my lack of exercise is the root of this slump.
what is interesting is that when i get to work, some switch kicks in and it is all action all the time for me. i am all over the place, checking on this, watching that, and always looking at my watch. this is probably why when i am home or not at work that i drop down so many gears.
otherwise things are good. my daughter is getting over her congestion. my father in law is looking good after being in the hospital for a week. thanksgiving is around the corner, so we are all getting into the transition to christmas mood. cant wait to go get the tree! it always looks nice and straight after a few cups of homemade egg nog !!!
what is interesting is that when i get to work, some switch kicks in and it is all action all the time for me. i am all over the place, checking on this, watching that, and always looking at my watch. this is probably why when i am home or not at work that i drop down so many gears.
otherwise things are good. my daughter is getting over her congestion. my father in law is looking good after being in the hospital for a week. thanksgiving is around the corner, so we are all getting into the transition to christmas mood. cant wait to go get the tree! it always looks nice and straight after a few cups of homemade egg nog !!!
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
13-14NOV07 / 19:55 / LAPTOP
today is a two for one entry.
13NOV: the day started off promisingly, but the cough that my daughter still had was getting me concerned. we opted to keep her out of school and take her to the doctor. after a brief exam, we were told she had some chest congestion and the start of an ear infection. so with a scirpt for zithromax off we went to the CVS. they told us to come back in thirty minutes, so we went home, dropped off the car, and took out the jogging stroller. i got her wrapped up in a blanket and off we went to knock out some errands. not long after we started, she was knocked out, sound asleep.\we got to the CVS, picked up the medicine, and started back for home. all in all we were outside for an hour, with her sound asleep for most of the time.
the rest of the day went as usual for a Tuesday. took care of my math homework, the house, and kept my daughter occupied. we made dinner together for my wife, and after dinner we had some homemade spicy popcorn to enjoy while we watched videos. at about 02:00 i woke up to find the two of them passed out on the couch and me in the chair. after a bit of back and forth i got all of us into bed by 02:30. a day off can really knock you out.
14NOV: we decided to keep my daughter out of school again , just to play it safe. i don't want her to get worse, and i don't want other kids to catch her cold.
we had a lazy day together after my wife left for work, watching TV, eating breakfast, and playing around. i am glad i haven't grown up yet.
we had good all chicken soup for lunch, and then i set her up for her power nap. I got things done around the house. my colleague from Hamburg called, he was in Florida, heading back home via NYC. i told him i would meet him at JFK and hang with him till his flight left.
my daughter and i went on a quick shopping spree for dinner, chicken brats and potatoes, our favorite. everything came out perfect and just in time as my wife walked into the house. we all sat down together and enjoyed our meal. the dessert was strawberries and whipped cream.
so now i must go to the airport, hopefully we can get into the first class lounge while we wait for the flight. it is so much nice waiting with a "beverage" and snacks while sitting in a lounger.
13NOV: the day started off promisingly, but the cough that my daughter still had was getting me concerned. we opted to keep her out of school and take her to the doctor. after a brief exam, we were told she had some chest congestion and the start of an ear infection. so with a scirpt for zithromax off we went to the CVS. they told us to come back in thirty minutes, so we went home, dropped off the car, and took out the jogging stroller. i got her wrapped up in a blanket and off we went to knock out some errands. not long after we started, she was knocked out, sound asleep.\we got to the CVS, picked up the medicine, and started back for home. all in all we were outside for an hour, with her sound asleep for most of the time.
the rest of the day went as usual for a Tuesday. took care of my math homework, the house, and kept my daughter occupied. we made dinner together for my wife, and after dinner we had some homemade spicy popcorn to enjoy while we watched videos. at about 02:00 i woke up to find the two of them passed out on the couch and me in the chair. after a bit of back and forth i got all of us into bed by 02:30. a day off can really knock you out.
14NOV: we decided to keep my daughter out of school again , just to play it safe. i don't want her to get worse, and i don't want other kids to catch her cold.
we had a lazy day together after my wife left for work, watching TV, eating breakfast, and playing around. i am glad i haven't grown up yet.
we had good all chicken soup for lunch, and then i set her up for her power nap. I got things done around the house. my colleague from Hamburg called, he was in Florida, heading back home via NYC. i told him i would meet him at JFK and hang with him till his flight left.
my daughter and i went on a quick shopping spree for dinner, chicken brats and potatoes, our favorite. everything came out perfect and just in time as my wife walked into the house. we all sat down together and enjoyed our meal. the dessert was strawberries and whipped cream.
so now i must go to the airport, hopefully we can get into the first class lounge while we wait for the flight. it is so much nice waiting with a "beverage" and snacks while sitting in a lounger.
Monday, November 12, 2007
12NOV07 / 23:50 / WORK
today started off slow and remained a mellow day. i got up at 0800, my daughter was playing nicely all morning with her toys allowing me to relax a bit. we had lunch together and then she went off for a nap. my wife came home early so i didnt need to drive to my daughter to my inlaws.
i got to work with time to spare. i was finally able to secure a desk, now that one of our team left for Houston, not bad after 2 years of waiting. now i have a place to put up some family pix and iron maiden goodies!
the flights went well. we had a daschund fly out, he belonged to one of our first officers. this gave me a reason to drive out to the planes, a part of the job i really miss. once i got the dog secured i came back to the office, wrapped thing up for tonight, set things up for tomorrow, and now sit here blogging.
it feels a bit surreal right now, no stress or hassles. is this how life should feel all the time? i would like to hope so. all i need to make the night complete is to hear some deep purple " speed king " on the ride home. if there was a white castle along the way, it would really be paradise!
i got to work with time to spare. i was finally able to secure a desk, now that one of our team left for Houston, not bad after 2 years of waiting. now i have a place to put up some family pix and iron maiden goodies!
the flights went well. we had a daschund fly out, he belonged to one of our first officers. this gave me a reason to drive out to the planes, a part of the job i really miss. once i got the dog secured i came back to the office, wrapped thing up for tonight, set things up for tomorrow, and now sit here blogging.
it feels a bit surreal right now, no stress or hassles. is this how life should feel all the time? i would like to hope so. all i need to make the night complete is to hear some deep purple " speed king " on the ride home. if there was a white castle along the way, it would really be paradise!
Sunday, November 11, 2007
11NOV07 / 12:00 / LAPTOP
i thought i would be able to catch some down time when i got home at 02:30, but this was not to be the case. when i pulled into the driveway, i noticed that the TV was still on in the living room. i found my wife on the couch with our 4 year old, who she told me was all congested again. she probably caught from a classmate, some of whom have been out sick this week. so we all stayed in the living room, they on the couch, me on the floor. good thing for late lat shows and AMC.
i did manage to get about 5 hours of sleep since there wasn't any class today. it would have been a rough day otherwise. the glazed donut monster was up and about yelling at me to get up. you could never tell, except for her little red nose and stuff voice, that she was so congested. my oldest was able to stay for the weekend, so the two of them are playing catch up on missed time.
ahhh, i hear it now from downstairs, the MELTDOWN. a congested 4 year old operating on 4 hours of sleep does not a happy camper make!!! time to hit the shower and get to work early. to quote Monty Python.....RUN AWAY, RUN AWAY!!!!!
i did manage to get about 5 hours of sleep since there wasn't any class today. it would have been a rough day otherwise. the glazed donut monster was up and about yelling at me to get up. you could never tell, except for her little red nose and stuff voice, that she was so congested. my oldest was able to stay for the weekend, so the two of them are playing catch up on missed time.
ahhh, i hear it now from downstairs, the MELTDOWN. a congested 4 year old operating on 4 hours of sleep does not a happy camper make!!! time to hit the shower and get to work early. to quote Monty Python.....RUN AWAY, RUN AWAY!!!!!
10NOV07 / 24:00 / WORK
this one is a bit late but will count as 10NOV entry. just got back from the warehouse in the other building. this evening started out a bit bumpy but seemed to have ended smooth. still have a lot of fine tuning to complete, but the effort is there, which is 90% of the battle.
it was a cold day today, even in math class. seems the heat was off on campus. the only place that had any real heat was the coffee shop by the B building. that hot nacho sauce really puts out some btus.
i met the "ghost escort" in the parking lot on the way to my car. we discussed the potential of another run at mt. misery/sweet hollow roads, and i think it may happen. we just hope the sexy irishman can make it this time. he can use him cell phone jammer on the spirits. just hope it doesn't become the next spaghetti incident.
it was a cold day today, even in math class. seems the heat was off on campus. the only place that had any real heat was the coffee shop by the B building. that hot nacho sauce really puts out some btus.
i met the "ghost escort" in the parking lot on the way to my car. we discussed the potential of another run at mt. misery/sweet hollow roads, and i think it may happen. we just hope the sexy irishman can make it this time. he can use him cell phone jammer on the spirits. just hope it doesn't become the next spaghetti incident.
Friday, November 09, 2007
09NOV07 / 13:10 / LAPTOP
i am not used to making entries during the day, but i have to in order to make sure it gets done. with the way things are set up now at work, we are in two places during the day, a new warehouse and offices in the previous building. they are still not yet finished with our new offices, so we have to shuttle back and forth, which is a real drag. so, i do this now at home, as i am concerned i may not get it done on time for each day if i try to blog at work. tonight will be my first solo night with the new handling company, should prove to be entertaining to say the least.
i went for a walk this morning, about 4 miles, took about 45 minutes. it felt good to get some exercise again, got to lose some weight and fast. it cant be healthy when the waist on your pants is greater than their length. i don't like the way the fine food and beer belly has grown on me. i would also like to be around for a while so i need to get the weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol numbers down to healthier levels. no crazy diets or extreme exercise regimes, just "good old fashion get off my ass walking, push ups, and sit ups." i have to start off slowly, but i do have to start. also gives me a way to listen to the 4000 plus songs on the ipod!
i went for a walk this morning, about 4 miles, took about 45 minutes. it felt good to get some exercise again, got to lose some weight and fast. it cant be healthy when the waist on your pants is greater than their length. i don't like the way the fine food and beer belly has grown on me. i would also like to be around for a while so i need to get the weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol numbers down to healthier levels. no crazy diets or extreme exercise regimes, just "good old fashion get off my ass walking, push ups, and sit ups." i have to start off slowly, but i do have to start. also gives me a way to listen to the 4000 plus songs on the ipod!
Thursday, November 08, 2007
08NOV07 / 12:20 / LAPTOP
last night we did wind up going to the rodeo bar and 3rd & 27th. this was not just because of my suggestion, but our visitors from Brussels wanted to go to a cool and casual place for a beer and some food. this leaves no other option BUT the rodeo bar.
i have been going there for about 18 yrs now. it started by following a local band, simon and the bar sinisters, with simon chardier on guitar, one of the best in NYC. after that first visit i was hooked. it is a true honky tonk bar with live music every night, ranging from country & western to swing bands to rockabillypunksurf rock, you will never be disappointed with the music at the rodeo.
the food is also another reason to go, with some of the best tex-mex and smoked BBQ i have ever tasted. the bar offers 20 different tequilas and 15 different bourbons. it also carries real American beers like lone star and shiner bock from Texas, as variety of Mexican beers. both food and drink are very reasonable, and the service genuine. and there is never a cover charge or drink minimum for the live music.
last nights band was "the jug addicts", a local jug band from Brooklyn. the band consisted of a guitarist, harmonica player, stand up bassist, two fiddlers, 1 tub bassist, and two wash board players. now come on, where else in NYC are you going to find this type of variety? only one place, the rodeo! not only was everyone in the band an accomplished musician, but all could sing very well. i recommend that you check them out on MYSPACE.
our friends enjoyed it all, especially the music. the said that they did expect to find this kind of "Americana" in Manhattan, but then realized, if it is out there, NYC has got it.
at about 23:00 we left after the first set, as our friend had been out all day, and expecting their first child !! so we dropped them off at the W hotel where they were staying, and looked forward to seeing them in June in Brussels. we plan on getting the baby it's first washboard !!!
i have been going there for about 18 yrs now. it started by following a local band, simon and the bar sinisters, with simon chardier on guitar, one of the best in NYC. after that first visit i was hooked. it is a true honky tonk bar with live music every night, ranging from country & western to swing bands to rockabillypunksurf rock, you will never be disappointed with the music at the rodeo.
the food is also another reason to go, with some of the best tex-mex and smoked BBQ i have ever tasted. the bar offers 20 different tequilas and 15 different bourbons. it also carries real American beers like lone star and shiner bock from Texas, as variety of Mexican beers. both food and drink are very reasonable, and the service genuine. and there is never a cover charge or drink minimum for the live music.
last nights band was "the jug addicts", a local jug band from Brooklyn. the band consisted of a guitarist, harmonica player, stand up bassist, two fiddlers, 1 tub bassist, and two wash board players. now come on, where else in NYC are you going to find this type of variety? only one place, the rodeo! not only was everyone in the band an accomplished musician, but all could sing very well. i recommend that you check them out on MYSPACE.
our friends enjoyed it all, especially the music. the said that they did expect to find this kind of "Americana" in Manhattan, but then realized, if it is out there, NYC has got it.
at about 23:00 we left after the first set, as our friend had been out all day, and expecting their first child !! so we dropped them off at the W hotel where they were staying, and looked forward to seeing them in June in Brussels. we plan on getting the baby it's first washboard !!!
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
07NOV07 / 10:10 / LAPTOP
Tuesdays are my Saturdays, so i took a day off from blogging. had a lot of things to do and running around, that by the time i got home i just passed out.
want to thank the paranormal man for the pix he sent of his dirty windshield, this will really help add some chills to the ghost blog i put in last week !!! :P the other pix are quite good, they help express what we all felt that night. still waiting on the pix from prof. k. !!!!
had a good lunch yesterday with the "sexy irishman" ,we got a lot done regarding the set up of our research papers. i think we are off to a good start. slow and steady wins the race.
i was listening to the NCC college station on Monday afternoon while driving to work. they aired a program about technology, and the topic was the first mass media coverage of a sinking at sea in the early 50's. it is covered in a book titled " simple courage". the topic is how a ship's captain handled the tragedy, but remained humble through it all and afterwards as well. the guy was given the largest ticker tape parade in US history, but strongly refused to accept the title of hero. i am going to the local library to see if they have it available, sounds like a good read.
tonight, me and my main squeeze are going out, dinner in NYC, but still not sure where to go. we have friends visiting from Brussels, so we want to take them some place entertaining. i say the rodeo bar and grill for some Tex-Mex and great music, but we shall see. carmine's is also on the list, but i can do without italian food for a while. i am sure we will find something, worse comes to worse, there is always white castle ;}
want to thank the paranormal man for the pix he sent of his dirty windshield, this will really help add some chills to the ghost blog i put in last week !!! :P the other pix are quite good, they help express what we all felt that night. still waiting on the pix from prof. k. !!!!
had a good lunch yesterday with the "sexy irishman" ,we got a lot done regarding the set up of our research papers. i think we are off to a good start. slow and steady wins the race.
i was listening to the NCC college station on Monday afternoon while driving to work. they aired a program about technology, and the topic was the first mass media coverage of a sinking at sea in the early 50's. it is covered in a book titled " simple courage". the topic is how a ship's captain handled the tragedy, but remained humble through it all and afterwards as well. the guy was given the largest ticker tape parade in US history, but strongly refused to accept the title of hero. i am going to the local library to see if they have it available, sounds like a good read.
tonight, me and my main squeeze are going out, dinner in NYC, but still not sure where to go. we have friends visiting from Brussels, so we want to take them some place entertaining. i say the rodeo bar and grill for some Tex-Mex and great music, but we shall see. carmine's is also on the list, but i can do without italian food for a while. i am sure we will find something, worse comes to worse, there is always white castle ;}
Monday, November 05, 2007
05NOV07 / 23:10 / WORK
i am experiencing a mellow moment. it is my friday, things went well today, and i may just make it out of here in time for wings and a pint at croxley's. eve if i don't go to croxley's i can relax at home. no school for my youngest tomorrow, so no need to get up early.
we have been getting spoiled by my mom being up in NY from SC. she has been taking care of not only our daughter, but the house as well, and don't get me started on the food !!! seeing her and my 4 year old together, reminds me of the bond i had with my grandmother.
tomorrow is dedicated to math home work and some brainstorming with a crazy Irishman regarding research papers. i better leave my cell phone on vibrate :}
we have been getting spoiled by my mom being up in NY from SC. she has been taking care of not only our daughter, but the house as well, and don't get me started on the food !!! seeing her and my 4 year old together, reminds me of the bond i had with my grandmother.
tomorrow is dedicated to math home work and some brainstorming with a crazy Irishman regarding research papers. i better leave my cell phone on vibrate :}
Sunday, November 04, 2007
04NOV07 / 23:05 / WORK
starting to feel the effects of sleep deprivation now. even that extra hour from setting the clock back didn't help. fortunately work was better today. one thing that did help was the walk to the library after class today. we even saw a hawk by the G building, a beautiful bird.
cant wait to get out of here tonight, i have a massive craving for White Castle, but i will have to settle for Wendy's. goo thing the one on Hempstead in Elmont is open till 2 am.
tomorrow i hope to be able to sleep in until 11am. But i think my daughter will have a different plan for me !
cant wait to get out of here tonight, i have a massive craving for White Castle, but i will have to settle for Wendy's. goo thing the one on Hempstead in Elmont is open till 2 am.
tomorrow i hope to be able to sleep in until 11am. But i think my daughter will have a different plan for me !
Saturday, November 03, 2007
03NOV07 / 12:40 / LAPTOP
the second day in the new facility wasn't as bad. this allowed me to notice the other weak areas. i can already see where we are going to have to do some "weeding out". now that it is strictly our show, there will be no compromising of standards and service.
cant believe this wind today. if Noel was a tropical storm, where are the tropical temps? they sure wd help make the wind more bearable. got to keep the kids inside today. hopefully the flights aren't affected too much this evening.
i think our "adopted" cat Spencer, has scared off the squirrels that were living in the roof over our porch. got to get him some fish for that bit of work.
that is all for now, must go off to make the donuts.
cant believe this wind today. if Noel was a tropical storm, where are the tropical temps? they sure wd help make the wind more bearable. got to keep the kids inside today. hopefully the flights aren't affected too much this evening.
i think our "adopted" cat Spencer, has scared off the squirrels that were living in the roof over our porch. got to get him some fish for that bit of work.
that is all for now, must go off to make the donuts.
Friday, November 02, 2007
02NOV07 / 13:20 / LAPTOP
i was right about yesterday. worked from 14:00 01NOV until 04:00 02NOV, 14 hours of which 12 were on my feet in the warehouse. it was a rough start, but it was also the first day in a facility with no true infrastructure in place yet. hope today will be better, and earlier!
my daughter woke me up at 11:00 this morning, tickling me. she was also showing off her painted nails with the daisies. my mom always takes her to h get her nails painted when she visits us, it's their "girl thing".
there really isn't much else to write about at the moment. i have to hustle a bit as i start at 14:00.
get off the roads people, speed king is on the way!!!!!!!!!
my daughter woke me up at 11:00 this morning, tickling me. she was also showing off her painted nails with the daisies. my mom always takes her to h get her nails painted when she visits us, it's their "girl thing".
there really isn't much else to write about at the moment. i have to hustle a bit as i start at 14:00.
get off the roads people, speed king is on the way!!!!!!!!!
Thursday, November 01, 2007
01NOV07 / 10:20 / LAPTOP
i am doing my entry early today, because i have this bad feeling that tonight will be very hectic at work. it is our first full day in the new facility with the new handling agent. i have already spoken with my boss and a fellow supervisor, by the sounds of their voices it has been an interesting morning to say the least. so i doubt that i would have any time tonight to make my entry. i will probably be working an eighteen hour day if not longer.
other than that the day is off to a good start. the "adopted" cat Spencer greeted us this morning as we left the house for school. i know that when i go to pick up my daughter the first thing she will ask me is " is Spencer still at our house?". i hope to have the answer she is looking for, but that is all up to Spencer.
other than that the day is off to a good start. the "adopted" cat Spencer greeted us this morning as we left the house for school. i know that when i go to pick up my daughter the first thing she will ask me is " is Spencer still at our house?". i hope to have the answer she is looking for, but that is all up to Spencer.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
31OCT07 / 23:05 / LAPTOP
today was a great family day. even though i was up until to the wee hours downloading music, i still got up with my wife and daughter at 07:30. we all had breakfast together and i was able to take my daughter to school. the Halloween feel was definitely in the air.
i picked up my daughter and we had lunch, PB&Js with some Cape Cod chips, the ultimate school lunch! i did some cleaning and organizing so the placed looked decent as my mom was coming up as a surprise for my daughter.
my wife got home early and we all got into "costume" . My daughter as a Barbie princess & my wife in an awesome witch outfit. i went as the 40 year old rocker, wearing an Iron Maiden soccer jersey, a Scorpions bandanna, jeans and sneakers. we made out like bandits!! my wife scored some serious Jax packs. We went for pizza and stayed longer than usual to allow time for my mom to get into the house so she could surprise my daughter.
we trick or treated for another half hour after dinner and then worked our way home. our neighbors and their kids were just leaving their house, so got everyone together for pictures. this was a good distraction, because just then a cab pulled up to the house, it was mom. when we pointed this out to my daughter she went running to her cheering "OMI" at the top of her four year old lungs.
yes, today was a great day. hope you all had a good one has well !
i picked up my daughter and we had lunch, PB&Js with some Cape Cod chips, the ultimate school lunch! i did some cleaning and organizing so the placed looked decent as my mom was coming up as a surprise for my daughter.
my wife got home early and we all got into "costume" . My daughter as a Barbie princess & my wife in an awesome witch outfit. i went as the 40 year old rocker, wearing an Iron Maiden soccer jersey, a Scorpions bandanna, jeans and sneakers. we made out like bandits!! my wife scored some serious Jax packs. We went for pizza and stayed longer than usual to allow time for my mom to get into the house so she could surprise my daughter.
we trick or treated for another half hour after dinner and then worked our way home. our neighbors and their kids were just leaving their house, so got everyone together for pictures. this was a good distraction, because just then a cab pulled up to the house, it was mom. when we pointed this out to my daughter she went running to her cheering "OMI" at the top of her four year old lungs.
yes, today was a great day. hope you all had a good one has well !
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
30OCT07 / 23:36 / LAPTOP
Caffeine Chills
The weather played an important role in the night’s adventure. The rain was tapering off and visibility was very good. The cloud cover also made it a bit brighter by reflecting the street light of the area around Route 110. It also helped the sound as the air was clear and dense.
We all meet up at the Dunkin Donuts at the intersection of Route 110 and Chi Chester Street. After we knew the last of the party would be on arriving in about thirty minutes, we finished off our java and headed out. We checked all our flashlights got into the car and plotted our course for Mt. Misery Road.
Driving to our destination progressed perfectly with what we were hoping for, as the closer we got to Mt. Misery Road, the streets became darker and darker. When we got to the intersection of Mt. Misery and Chi Chester we made a left heading south. As we continued, the feeling was getting more eerie, but not scary. One of us commented “imagine if the road just ended?” and thirty seconds later it did with a tree lying across the road. On the other side of the tree a small woods waiting for whoever was brave, or fool, enough to enter alone. This is when I experience one of the quickest three point turns in an SUV.
The haste in which we left the area did not stop us from finding a new set of chills as we drove down a street through what was a day camp. At night this place was a perfect setting for any slasher movie, which is probably why we enjoyed it, at 20 miles per hour with the doors locked and the windows up. When we got to the end of this road we were on Round Swamp Road, followed that to Old Country Road, and came to the south en of Mt. Misery Road. Here we thought for sure, we would come across something sinister, but we were let down by all the huge mansions and new developments. It was time to go back to headquarters for more caffeine and re-group with our back up.
Our back up arrived with his back up studying in the car. After a brief discussion we headed out again retracing our first run to the woods on Mt. Misery Road. Flashes from a camera were emitting from our back-up’s SUV, which should now be called our “escort” as he was leading the trip. When we got to the tree in the road we parked side by side and step out of the cars, flashlights and hi beams at full power. Our brave escort decided to venture into he woods, and with flashlight and camera in hand off he went down the trail. This is when we decided to have a little fun and shut off all the lights on him, but I think it scared us more than him as he was so into his adventure. Nothing really happened to any of us here, no sightings or sensations, just the normal fear of the dark in a strange area. Time to look for trouble somewhere else, and Sweet Hollow Road was the destination.
Sweet Hollow Road is said to be the location of a few urban legends, three of which we eager to experience. The first two revolved around the Northern State overpass. One is that your car would roll backwards up hill; the other is that there have been sightings of ghosts of teen that hung themselves on the overpass. The firs one we knew right away was a myth as we saw the slight incline of the road, highlighted by the rain, as we approached the over pass. We parked on the side of the road and walked through the overpass, with at least three flashlights at full power. One of us was very startled by their own shadow. No sightings except for a grey and white cat staring back at me from the woods. We continued on in search of the third, Mary’s grave, and hopefully ghost.
Approximately a quarter mile south of the overpass we came across a cemetery and of course we stopped in front of it. The cemetery itself was normal looking, but it was the woods across the street that held or fascination, this is where Mary’s grave was supposed to be located. The brave escort was not brave enough to venture into these woods, nor was anyone willing to be his back-up. We took some pictures and off we went, back up Sweet Hollow Road, through the scary at night day camp, to the safety of the street light of Route 110 and Caffeine Central.
After a short mission debriefing we went on our ways back home, I to the comfort of my home, the others to Daniel Road in Massapequa, to the witches’ house. I have not seen or heard from them since.
The weather played an important role in the night’s adventure. The rain was tapering off and visibility was very good. The cloud cover also made it a bit brighter by reflecting the street light of the area around Route 110. It also helped the sound as the air was clear and dense.
We all meet up at the Dunkin Donuts at the intersection of Route 110 and Chi Chester Street. After we knew the last of the party would be on arriving in about thirty minutes, we finished off our java and headed out. We checked all our flashlights got into the car and plotted our course for Mt. Misery Road.
Driving to our destination progressed perfectly with what we were hoping for, as the closer we got to Mt. Misery Road, the streets became darker and darker. When we got to the intersection of Mt. Misery and Chi Chester we made a left heading south. As we continued, the feeling was getting more eerie, but not scary. One of us commented “imagine if the road just ended?” and thirty seconds later it did with a tree lying across the road. On the other side of the tree a small woods waiting for whoever was brave, or fool, enough to enter alone. This is when I experience one of the quickest three point turns in an SUV.
The haste in which we left the area did not stop us from finding a new set of chills as we drove down a street through what was a day camp. At night this place was a perfect setting for any slasher movie, which is probably why we enjoyed it, at 20 miles per hour with the doors locked and the windows up. When we got to the end of this road we were on Round Swamp Road, followed that to Old Country Road, and came to the south en of Mt. Misery Road. Here we thought for sure, we would come across something sinister, but we were let down by all the huge mansions and new developments. It was time to go back to headquarters for more caffeine and re-group with our back up.
Our back up arrived with his back up studying in the car. After a brief discussion we headed out again retracing our first run to the woods on Mt. Misery Road. Flashes from a camera were emitting from our back-up’s SUV, which should now be called our “escort” as he was leading the trip. When we got to the tree in the road we parked side by side and step out of the cars, flashlights and hi beams at full power. Our brave escort decided to venture into he woods, and with flashlight and camera in hand off he went down the trail. This is when we decided to have a little fun and shut off all the lights on him, but I think it scared us more than him as he was so into his adventure. Nothing really happened to any of us here, no sightings or sensations, just the normal fear of the dark in a strange area. Time to look for trouble somewhere else, and Sweet Hollow Road was the destination.
Sweet Hollow Road is said to be the location of a few urban legends, three of which we eager to experience. The first two revolved around the Northern State overpass. One is that your car would roll backwards up hill; the other is that there have been sightings of ghosts of teen that hung themselves on the overpass. The firs one we knew right away was a myth as we saw the slight incline of the road, highlighted by the rain, as we approached the over pass. We parked on the side of the road and walked through the overpass, with at least three flashlights at full power. One of us was very startled by their own shadow. No sightings except for a grey and white cat staring back at me from the woods. We continued on in search of the third, Mary’s grave, and hopefully ghost.
Approximately a quarter mile south of the overpass we came across a cemetery and of course we stopped in front of it. The cemetery itself was normal looking, but it was the woods across the street that held or fascination, this is where Mary’s grave was supposed to be located. The brave escort was not brave enough to venture into these woods, nor was anyone willing to be his back-up. We took some pictures and off we went, back up Sweet Hollow Road, through the scary at night day camp, to the safety of the street light of Route 110 and Caffeine Central.
After a short mission debriefing we went on our ways back home, I to the comfort of my home, the others to Daniel Road in Massapequa, to the witches’ house. I have not seen or heard from them since.
Monday, October 29, 2007
29OCT07 / 23:00 / WORK
ahhhh, it is my friday again, and, it will be my last time working with this handling agent!! i am sure it will be difficult staring over again in a new facility with a new company, but it may be a change for the better. at least i have two days off before i have to get involved with the madness.
i am looking forward to tomorrow afternoon. my oldest daughter's field hockey season is over, so i can now pick her up earlier, giving my youngest and me more time with her. i am planning on making jack o lanterns, hopefully they come out well. we will top it off with pizza before i have to take my oldest to german school.
my youngest has told me that i am not allowed to dress up for Halloween, i was planning on being a pirate for her. she said i should just wear jean and my "scary Eddie" shirt, which is my Iron Maiden soccer jersey with their mascot Eddie on the front. now all i have to do is try to fit into my motorcycle jacket from 1987 and i can really play the part. if i could squeeze into the MC it would be a real magic trick for Halloween !!!!
i am looking forward to tomorrow afternoon. my oldest daughter's field hockey season is over, so i can now pick her up earlier, giving my youngest and me more time with her. i am planning on making jack o lanterns, hopefully they come out well. we will top it off with pizza before i have to take my oldest to german school.
my youngest has told me that i am not allowed to dress up for Halloween, i was planning on being a pirate for her. she said i should just wear jean and my "scary Eddie" shirt, which is my Iron Maiden soccer jersey with their mascot Eddie on the front. now all i have to do is try to fit into my motorcycle jacket from 1987 and i can really play the part. if i could squeeze into the MC it would be a real magic trick for Halloween !!!!
Sunday, October 28, 2007
28OCT07 / 23:25 / WORK
i get a kick out of people who try to be slick. sometimes there a characters here, that will never acknowledge or own up to a mistake. they just keep coming up with excuses and never solutions.
we all know what the problem is, no need to repeat it or assign blame, just fix it! then when the dust settles they approach you as if nothing happened and ask if they can have a cup of coffee from your office.
well enough about that. had a good time after class, good food, even better company. i really dont mind operating on 3 hours of sleep after being up 20 hours on Sundays. I find it a good and mellow way to start another 20 hour day.
i think there will be another visit to Mt Misey / Sweet Hollow roads soon, but someone is going to have to leave their security blanket at home. i think this time we may see something, maybe a giant leprachan.
we all know what the problem is, no need to repeat it or assign blame, just fix it! then when the dust settles they approach you as if nothing happened and ask if they can have a cup of coffee from your office.
well enough about that. had a good time after class, good food, even better company. i really dont mind operating on 3 hours of sleep after being up 20 hours on Sundays. I find it a good and mellow way to start another 20 hour day.
i think there will be another visit to Mt Misey / Sweet Hollow roads soon, but someone is going to have to leave their security blanket at home. i think this time we may see something, maybe a giant leprachan.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
27OCT07 / 23:35 / WORK
i am in for another late one to night. we thought we were going to get tagged for a delay because our handling agent was late with building up our cargo for the two passenger flights, but we lucked out. so now the the delayed paper work begins.
I am glad it is starting to clear up, will make the late night ride home safer. last night every other driver was either thinking they were Knightrider or they were so afraid the would go over 40. Both cases are the one who usually cause the accident but are never involved. wish i still had my 76 Buick Le Sabre, 2 tons of real car that fear neither man, machine, or tree!
see y'all in the a.m. , got to wrap up things up here before the Life of Riley comes on !! ;}
I am glad it is starting to clear up, will make the late night ride home safer. last night every other driver was either thinking they were Knightrider or they were so afraid the would go over 40. Both cases are the one who usually cause the accident but are never involved. wish i still had my 76 Buick Le Sabre, 2 tons of real car that fear neither man, machine, or tree!
see y'all in the a.m. , got to wrap up things up here before the Life of Riley comes on !! ;}
Friday, October 26, 2007
26OCT07 / 23:50 / WORK
I found a great music website, pandora.com, it is basically a free ipod over your pc. just enter your favorite artist, song, etc, and you can set up "radio stations" based on what you pick. the site automatically pick artists/songs in the same vain as you entered and mixes it up. i have entered about 75 bands so far and created radio stations for each band. they have a station mixer, select a few or all stations in yr profile and it will randomly pick and play from those selected.
Still got plenty of work tonight, weather is slowing departures a bit. didn't have to get crazy on anyone tonight for screwing up. good thing, because with the amount of caffeine and sugar circulating through my system now it would not have been a pretty site. hopefully this wears off on the ride home, got that lovely 07:50 math class in a few hours. ohhhhhh joy. hail Simpson J. Cat !!!
Still got plenty of work tonight, weather is slowing departures a bit. didn't have to get crazy on anyone tonight for screwing up. good thing, because with the amount of caffeine and sugar circulating through my system now it would not have been a pretty site. hopefully this wears off on the ride home, got that lovely 07:50 math class in a few hours. ohhhhhh joy. hail Simpson J. Cat !!!
Thursday, October 25, 2007
25OCT07 / 21:15 / WORK
So far so good today. got up early with the rest of the family and managed to stay awake and coherent enough to get a hair cut and a shave without falling asleep in the chair. i was going good, all the way to now, and i can feel i am fading fast. i really need to get an espresso machine in here, i will definitely put it on the wish list for our new office.
All the passenger colleagues are buzzing about the SUPER JUMBO A 380 today. it flew from Singapore to Sydney with 450 passengers, even though it is configured to hold 850! i am sure glad i moved to the cargo side of the business, i want nothing to due with a cancelled flight on one of those birds. one full flight being cancelled would use up ALL the hotel rooms here at JFK.
i am looking forward to tomorrow as my daughter does not have to go to school, so we can hang out together in the morning. that is my stress relief and really lets me know what life is truly about. she is going to be upset, now that i cut my hair short she wont be able to braid it.
All the passenger colleagues are buzzing about the SUPER JUMBO A 380 today. it flew from Singapore to Sydney with 450 passengers, even though it is configured to hold 850! i am sure glad i moved to the cargo side of the business, i want nothing to due with a cancelled flight on one of those birds. one full flight being cancelled would use up ALL the hotel rooms here at JFK.
i am looking forward to tomorrow as my daughter does not have to go to school, so we can hang out together in the morning. that is my stress relief and really lets me know what life is truly about. she is going to be upset, now that i cut my hair short she wont be able to braid it.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
24OCT07 / 23:59 / LAPTOP
OK, yesterday i just plain forgot to blog. Between the driving of the kids and catching up on housework and bills, i let the day get the better of me. When 21:00 came around i was wiped out, surprised i even made it that far into Tues with my eyes open.
Today's blog it late as i wanted to wait until the completion of the ghost expedition to Mt. Misery was completed. I must say that even though no events or sightings occurred, the area does have a sense of "activity" to it. I don't want to go into too much detail as i wish to use the topic for a report for class, but i would recommend a trip out there to all of you. You must go at night when it is dark and not with more than four to five people. When you do this for yourself you will understand.
On a lighter note, we got to see our "adopted" cat Spencer again this afternoon. I love the way my daughters face just lights up when she sees this cat and even more so when the cat comes running to greet her. know i will give in soon and get her a cat, even though i am a true blue dog person. As long as it lights up her eyes and brings out a smile like when she sees Spencer, then that is all that matters to me.
Today's blog it late as i wanted to wait until the completion of the ghost expedition to Mt. Misery was completed. I must say that even though no events or sightings occurred, the area does have a sense of "activity" to it. I don't want to go into too much detail as i wish to use the topic for a report for class, but i would recommend a trip out there to all of you. You must go at night when it is dark and not with more than four to five people. When you do this for yourself you will understand.
On a lighter note, we got to see our "adopted" cat Spencer again this afternoon. I love the way my daughters face just lights up when she sees this cat and even more so when the cat comes running to greet her. know i will give in soon and get her a cat, even though i am a true blue dog person. As long as it lights up her eyes and brings out a smile like when she sees Spencer, then that is all that matters to me.
Monday, October 22, 2007
23OCT07 / 20:30 / WORK
Ahhh, at last it's Friday, at least for me it is any. I may even go out with the boys after work tonight and shoot some pool. More than likely i will just lose one game and commence the enjoying of the Guinness(es). Either way it is win/win for me.
On the other hand, I may just wind up going home and crashing in front of the TV, hoping to catch the 01:00 repeat of Anthony Bourdain's show on the Travel Channel. I will probably be joined by a glass of Shiraz and whatever leftovers can be consumed cold. Again, a win/win for me.
I am hoping that tomorrow i will awake all happy go lucky and get some things done while my daughter is in Pre K. That is all contingent on if i wake up bright eyed and bushy tailed and not bushy eyed and bright tailed!
On the other hand, I may just wind up going home and crashing in front of the TV, hoping to catch the 01:00 repeat of Anthony Bourdain's show on the Travel Channel. I will probably be joined by a glass of Shiraz and whatever leftovers can be consumed cold. Again, a win/win for me.
I am hoping that tomorrow i will awake all happy go lucky and get some things done while my daughter is in Pre K. That is all contingent on if i wake up bright eyed and bushy tailed and not bushy eyed and bright tailed!
Sunday, October 21, 2007
21OCT / 21:50 / WORK
I would like to apologize, again, to any classmates who may have been offended by my Halloween essay, it was the intention. Just me getting in my shots against the double standards in life.
Today just whizzed by, my eyes are still burning from lack of sleep. Tried to catch some zzz after class, but i guess i was not using the right bait. I think tonight i will switch to either Pilsner, Shiraz, or Cognac as bait.
I hope i catch the end of the Ghostie Show on 89.1FM for the ride home, it is such a cool program and helps me wind down from a 20 hour day running on 3 hours of sleep. I highly recommend you try to listen to it as well, around 23:00.
Well, that's all i got for you today folks, i am fading with 2 hours left on my shift. Hope you all are sleeping by then, if not, it's your own fault !
Today just whizzed by, my eyes are still burning from lack of sleep. Tried to catch some zzz after class, but i guess i was not using the right bait. I think tonight i will switch to either Pilsner, Shiraz, or Cognac as bait.
I hope i catch the end of the Ghostie Show on 89.1FM for the ride home, it is such a cool program and helps me wind down from a 20 hour day running on 3 hours of sleep. I highly recommend you try to listen to it as well, around 23:00.
Well, that's all i got for you today folks, i am fading with 2 hours left on my shift. Hope you all are sleeping by then, if not, it's your own fault !
Saturday, October 20, 2007
20OCT07 / 23:30 / WORK
well today got off to a good start. after 3 hours of sleep, i got up at 06:00 for my 07:50 math class. got there 10 minutes early as we were supposed to have a substitute teacher as our regular instructor was in DFW for his son's wedding.
as usual, the late kids were late, and the ones i suspected of banging out did just that, as they knew we were going to have a sub. those who were there were all ready to get started.
we gave it until 08:40 and decided we had waited enough time for this sub. no one bothered to come to our class to advise of any delays or cancellations. we took our own attendance sheet and gave it to a prof. manoj in the math dept to forward accordingly.
it would have been nice to know if class was going to be cancelled as i could have used the extra sleep. i wonder if i get a prorated refund of can back this cancellation so i don't get penalized if i miss a class.
as usual, the late kids were late, and the ones i suspected of banging out did just that, as they knew we were going to have a sub. those who were there were all ready to get started.
we gave it until 08:40 and decided we had waited enough time for this sub. no one bothered to come to our class to advise of any delays or cancellations. we took our own attendance sheet and gave it to a prof. manoj in the math dept to forward accordingly.
it would have been nice to know if class was going to be cancelled as i could have used the extra sleep. i wonder if i get a prorated refund of can back this cancellation so i don't get penalized if i miss a class.
Friday, October 19, 2007
19OCT / 23:25 / WORK
sorry folks, but this is going to be a quickie. rough day at home, with a sickly 4 yr old, was breaking my heart all day. so couldn't really do much then.
work today has been a real problem, i will easily be here till 2 or even 3 am. so my 07:50am math class will be loads of fun.
see you all on Sunday, i hope
work today has been a real problem, i will easily be here till 2 or even 3 am. so my 07:50am math class will be loads of fun.
see you all on Sunday, i hope
Thursday, October 18, 2007
18OCT07 / 23:00 / WORK
you know the world is taking a turn for the worse when the SWISS start rioting! did the cheese not have enough holes? was the chocolate not chocolaty enough? was the stingy-ness of the fondue not to their liking? come on folks, what can they possibly be pissed off about, especially when you they do not get involved in anything and get to hold all that money in safe keeping.
OK, i was bit over the top with the opening, but as a German i can goof on the Swiss and the Austrians all i want.
now it is time to be serious. the reasons for their riots is quite ugly. when racism rears its ugly face in a country like Switzerland, things are not good. especially when you consider how much of the world business, military, and U.N. meetings are held in Geneva, you would think they are tolerant people. guess not.
Then there was that attack on Benazir Bhutto in Pakistan. She shows up to cheering masses, ready to help reform the country, and her convoy is attacked leaving 100 people dead. In a strange twist of the terrorism game, there were multiple parties claiming responsibility for the attack. that can be a good thing.
i think it is time i throw a little get together with the Swiss and Pakistanis at my place and serve up some Rosti Potatoes and Basmati Rice, and then have 'em all sing Kumbayah. Yeah, that's the ticket.
OK, i was bit over the top with the opening, but as a German i can goof on the Swiss and the Austrians all i want.
now it is time to be serious. the reasons for their riots is quite ugly. when racism rears its ugly face in a country like Switzerland, things are not good. especially when you consider how much of the world business, military, and U.N. meetings are held in Geneva, you would think they are tolerant people. guess not.
Then there was that attack on Benazir Bhutto in Pakistan. She shows up to cheering masses, ready to help reform the country, and her convoy is attacked leaving 100 people dead. In a strange twist of the terrorism game, there were multiple parties claiming responsibility for the attack. that can be a good thing.
i think it is time i throw a little get together with the Swiss and Pakistanis at my place and serve up some Rosti Potatoes and Basmati Rice, and then have 'em all sing Kumbayah. Yeah, that's the ticket.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
17OCT07 / 22:20 / LAPTOP
Today we learned something good that made us a little sad. "belle" the cat we met yesterday morning is really "Spencer" and belongs to the neighbor three houses down.
we made this discovery this afternoon just after i picked up my daughter from her tap/tumbling classes. as we were saying good-bye to a classmate and her father, we started to walk back home, just a few houses down the block from the dance school.
as we passed the first house after the school, we say a grey stripped cat, it was "belle" from yesterday morning! we knelt down as not to scare "her" off, and the cat came right up to us. it greeted us just as it did yesterday, it was even purring. my daughter was soooo happy.
just as we were getting ready to go home, a neighbor walked up and said hello. we asked if they knew who the cat belonged to and she said it was her cat "Spencer" . my daughter could not believe what she had just heard. not that the cat belonged to someone already, but that she was a he. this meant it could no longer be a girl, hence, no longer a "princess".
we told our neighbor of yesterdays event. she was very grateful of our care for her cat and told us that any time we wanted to say hello to "Spencer" we could come by anytime. when my daughter said she wished she could still call the cat "belle" our neighbor said that that would be just fine.
i guess as long as we don't call the cat late for dinner, we can call it whatever we like!
we made this discovery this afternoon just after i picked up my daughter from her tap/tumbling classes. as we were saying good-bye to a classmate and her father, we started to walk back home, just a few houses down the block from the dance school.
as we passed the first house after the school, we say a grey stripped cat, it was "belle" from yesterday morning! we knelt down as not to scare "her" off, and the cat came right up to us. it greeted us just as it did yesterday, it was even purring. my daughter was soooo happy.
just as we were getting ready to go home, a neighbor walked up and said hello. we asked if they knew who the cat belonged to and she said it was her cat "Spencer" . my daughter could not believe what she had just heard. not that the cat belonged to someone already, but that she was a he. this meant it could no longer be a girl, hence, no longer a "princess".
we told our neighbor of yesterdays event. she was very grateful of our care for her cat and told us that any time we wanted to say hello to "Spencer" we could come by anytime. when my daughter said she wished she could still call the cat "belle" our neighbor said that that would be just fine.
i guess as long as we don't call the cat late for dinner, we can call it whatever we like!
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
16OCT07 / 23:55 / LAPTOP
I woke up a bit late this morning. as i went into the kitchen to make a cup of tea, i heard the squirrel that has been living in the roof over the porch make a ruckus. i know that this i a mother squirrel with three young ones, so it was an alarm call, but for what?
when i looked out the back kitchen window, i saw a grey striped tabby cat in the back yard. it was a long cat of a good size. i decided to go down stairs and check things out while my wife and daughter were both still getting ready for the day.
as i walked out the back door, the cat stopped moving and hid behind a bush. when it sensed i meant it no harm, it slowly came over to me. once it was close enough, i pet it gently, and it started to weave in and our between my legs in a figure eight pattern, gently brushing up against me and then rolling on its back.
it was a female cat, looked a bit pregnant, and was wearing a new flea collar. she must belong to a neighbor but have never seen her, or any other cat for that matter, in our backyard. she followed me up the steps of the house. i sat down and she stayed right next to me. i decided to go up and get her some milk.
when i got upstairs, i told the girls what was going on, and they got all excited, especially my daughter, she love kittens. i told them i would be downstairs wit the cat, and that they should be careful opening the back door as not to spook the cat.
i went back down, and carefully opened the door, only to see a small squirrel on the porch banister. before i could shoosh it away, the cat was right after it, chasing it around the driveway, almost climbing up the gutter leader to get it. this cat was OK in my book ! for this deed a can of Bumble Bee is in order.
the girls came down and met my new weapon. they fell in love with her and she with them. my daughter was hoping she would still be here when she got out of school in a few hours. i told her i did as well. the girls went off to school and then my wife went to work. i decided to build a little home for the cat.
i went into the basement and looked for some scrap wood. found everything i needed and made a quick little shelter and put an old blanket in it. when i got back up stairs to the yard, the cat was gone. it was too bad, i would have liked to keep her, but she did look like she belonged to someone already.
i got cleaned up, finally had that cup of tea, and then went to pick up my daughter. as soon as she came out of class she asked about the cat. i told her what i built and that the cat was gone. my daughter was only slightly saddened, as she replied" i am going to name her Belle, and we should get some cat food for her because she will be hungry when she comes back." we went to the supermarket, and ten minutes later and two dollars shorter, we came back with a small bag of cat food and two big hearts full of hope.
when i looked out the back kitchen window, i saw a grey striped tabby cat in the back yard. it was a long cat of a good size. i decided to go down stairs and check things out while my wife and daughter were both still getting ready for the day.
as i walked out the back door, the cat stopped moving and hid behind a bush. when it sensed i meant it no harm, it slowly came over to me. once it was close enough, i pet it gently, and it started to weave in and our between my legs in a figure eight pattern, gently brushing up against me and then rolling on its back.
it was a female cat, looked a bit pregnant, and was wearing a new flea collar. she must belong to a neighbor but have never seen her, or any other cat for that matter, in our backyard. she followed me up the steps of the house. i sat down and she stayed right next to me. i decided to go up and get her some milk.
when i got upstairs, i told the girls what was going on, and they got all excited, especially my daughter, she love kittens. i told them i would be downstairs wit the cat, and that they should be careful opening the back door as not to spook the cat.
i went back down, and carefully opened the door, only to see a small squirrel on the porch banister. before i could shoosh it away, the cat was right after it, chasing it around the driveway, almost climbing up the gutter leader to get it. this cat was OK in my book ! for this deed a can of Bumble Bee is in order.
the girls came down and met my new weapon. they fell in love with her and she with them. my daughter was hoping she would still be here when she got out of school in a few hours. i told her i did as well. the girls went off to school and then my wife went to work. i decided to build a little home for the cat.
i went into the basement and looked for some scrap wood. found everything i needed and made a quick little shelter and put an old blanket in it. when i got back up stairs to the yard, the cat was gone. it was too bad, i would have liked to keep her, but she did look like she belonged to someone already.
i got cleaned up, finally had that cup of tea, and then went to pick up my daughter. as soon as she came out of class she asked about the cat. i told her what i built and that the cat was gone. my daughter was only slightly saddened, as she replied" i am going to name her Belle, and we should get some cat food for her because she will be hungry when she comes back." we went to the supermarket, and ten minutes later and two dollars shorter, we came back with a small bag of cat food and two big hearts full of hope.
Monday, October 15, 2007
15OCT / 22:15 / WORK
i must apologize in advance, but i will be venting a wee bit on this entry. it could have been such a simple and quick build up in the warehouse today. only 3000kgs to build, normally we have about 10,000kgs to build each flight, and it took the build up crew from 16:30 - 20:00 to build up 14 shipments. they just dragged it out. the mistake i made was let my work ethic get the better of me and i jumped in and did some of the work myself to get it done, and done right. needless to say, the builders just kicked back even more. there i am done.
i saw an interesting program this afternoon about UFOs and area 51. i find it interesting how it just goes back and forth between UFO to military advanced aircraft to UFO. each of the different camps able to counter the others point of view or data. i don't rule out other life forms in this great universe of ours, to do so would be narrow minded. it would also be quite scary if we humans were the top of the evolutionary chain because we have accomplished too many decent things lately. but i tend to more in the camp of the advanced technology theorists, as the information presented is more plausible. all major fighter aircraft are kept secret for at least two to five years before they become operational and are presented to the public. just take the Stealth Fighter and Bomber as examples.
as i see it, we gain from both sides of the argument. the UFO camp gives us entertaining topics of discussion and debate. the realists let us know how advanced the military is getting with their newest toys. i sure hope they are spending my tax dollars well on either one of the two !
i saw an interesting program this afternoon about UFOs and area 51. i find it interesting how it just goes back and forth between UFO to military advanced aircraft to UFO. each of the different camps able to counter the others point of view or data. i don't rule out other life forms in this great universe of ours, to do so would be narrow minded. it would also be quite scary if we humans were the top of the evolutionary chain because we have accomplished too many decent things lately. but i tend to more in the camp of the advanced technology theorists, as the information presented is more plausible. all major fighter aircraft are kept secret for at least two to five years before they become operational and are presented to the public. just take the Stealth Fighter and Bomber as examples.
as i see it, we gain from both sides of the argument. the UFO camp gives us entertaining topics of discussion and debate. the realists let us know how advanced the military is getting with their newest toys. i sure hope they are spending my tax dollars well on either one of the two !
Sunday, October 14, 2007
14OCT / 22:53 / WORK
on my ride home from work last night i was able to catch the last 15 minutes of "Ghosty's Radio Show" on WFDU 89.1FM. He plays mid to late 80's new-wave / indie music. last night he played the Trio song " DA DA DA" , which was used in a VW commercial once. It is a great tune, well representing that time in Euro-Indie tunes. Then next song he played was General Public's " Tenderness".
This song is a private joke between a friend and me. about 10 yrs ago we were walking to his car after work talking about music. the topic was heavy rock bands and the scene that went with it. as i get into his car i see a cassette, GENERAL PUBLIC. i bust his chops saying " so when no one is looking, you bop around to the song Tenderness???" . ever since then whenever it is played on a radio i call him and blast it over the cell phone, even onto his voicemail.
so, of course, this is what i did at 00:29 on the Cross Island on the way home after work. i think i will check with him today if he was alone or not at the time i called him.
i just hope he never catches me listening to Burt & Carly' Greatest Hits while i do dishes!
This song is a private joke between a friend and me. about 10 yrs ago we were walking to his car after work talking about music. the topic was heavy rock bands and the scene that went with it. as i get into his car i see a cassette, GENERAL PUBLIC. i bust his chops saying " so when no one is looking, you bop around to the song Tenderness???" . ever since then whenever it is played on a radio i call him and blast it over the cell phone, even onto his voicemail.
so, of course, this is what i did at 00:29 on the Cross Island on the way home after work. i think i will check with him today if he was alone or not at the time i called him.
i just hope he never catches me listening to Burt & Carly' Greatest Hits while i do dishes!
Saturday, October 13, 2007
13OCT07 / 23:47 / WORK
what a long day on limited sleep ! got to bed about 03:00 and then woke up at 06:00. went to a math class at 07:50 - 12:20 and then came straight to work by 13:00 and have been here since this afternoon.
will probably only get to sleep at 02:00 tonight and then get up at 07:00 for Sunday English class, which i am looking forward to. have met some good people in this class. i believe our "spooky" class project / trip will be an interesting event. i really got into doing the little bit of research i did for this project.
in addition to this somewhat "euphoric" state i am in due to sleep deprivation and MASSIVE amounts of caffeine and sugar, i am quite pleased with the way the weather has been the past two days. it is starting to get that "Halloween-ie" feel in the air. we all know what that means for me...
TIME TO CRANK THE SABBATH!!!! VOL IV ALL THE WAY!!!
now, where did the dove and the bat disappear to.....
will probably only get to sleep at 02:00 tonight and then get up at 07:00 for Sunday English class, which i am looking forward to. have met some good people in this class. i believe our "spooky" class project / trip will be an interesting event. i really got into doing the little bit of research i did for this project.
in addition to this somewhat "euphoric" state i am in due to sleep deprivation and MASSIVE amounts of caffeine and sugar, i am quite pleased with the way the weather has been the past two days. it is starting to get that "Halloween-ie" feel in the air. we all know what that means for me...
TIME TO CRANK THE SABBATH!!!! VOL IV ALL THE WAY!!!
now, where did the dove and the bat disappear to.....
Friday, October 12, 2007
12OCT07 / 00:25 / WORK
still at work due to the long taxi times, there must still be some weather in the area or en route for most of the remaining flights waiting to take off. i will probably be here about one more hour or so.
i get a kick out of my daughter and her enthusiasm with Pre - K. she still has that little bit of apprehension when we walk to the school, even though it is only across the street from our house. the Pre-K classes enter through their doors which lead to the playground / school yard, this way you don't have to walk through the school to get to the classroom.
once we get to the school yard and she sees all the other kids, she starts to get excited about class. when the teacher opens the class door, i become chopped liver, as she is off, barely pausing to give a hug and a kiss.
i stay and watch for a few minutes as the rest of the class files into the room, just in case she has a change of mind. no, this will not be the case. she promptly marches to the back wall to hang up her backpack and jacket, and then sits down in the "good morning" circle with her classmates.
when they are infants, you look forward to them becoming toddlers. when the are toddlers you look forward to them becoming little kids. right now, i want her to stay like this, at the age of "enlightenment" for kids. i know it wont happen, but i will cherish this time in her and my life.
i get a kick out of my daughter and her enthusiasm with Pre - K. she still has that little bit of apprehension when we walk to the school, even though it is only across the street from our house. the Pre-K classes enter through their doors which lead to the playground / school yard, this way you don't have to walk through the school to get to the classroom.
once we get to the school yard and she sees all the other kids, she starts to get excited about class. when the teacher opens the class door, i become chopped liver, as she is off, barely pausing to give a hug and a kiss.
i stay and watch for a few minutes as the rest of the class files into the room, just in case she has a change of mind. no, this will not be the case. she promptly marches to the back wall to hang up her backpack and jacket, and then sits down in the "good morning" circle with her classmates.
when they are infants, you look forward to them becoming toddlers. when the are toddlers you look forward to them becoming little kids. right now, i want her to stay like this, at the age of "enlightenment" for kids. i know it wont happen, but i will cherish this time in her and my life.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
11OCT07 / 23:25 / WORK
well it's my Monday again. i will try again as the past two blogs to stay on the sunnier side of life and not vent about work.
i did miss a cool moment at work on Tuesday. we had a Rhodesian Ridgeback fly out on us. this dog is also know as an African Lion dog, used by the European to fend off lions. i really wish i could have had him travel out on one of my shifts.this is one of my favorite breed of dogs. they are a good size animal, so you can play around with them and have a good watch dog as well. they are very loyal and are pretty mellow for the most part, they just need to be run a bit.
i knew a guy who was a "Deadhead" and he had a Ridgeback named Reggie. they were a perfect match, both mellow and friendly. this guy was also an electrician, and when he could he would bring Reggie along on the job. all his clients would ask if Reggie was coming "to work" with him, that's how much the dog was liked by people.
you don't get to see them that often, but when you do you can't mistake them as the hair that runs down their spine stand up, hence the name. if you do see one, go up and meet the dog, and you will see why they are a favorite of mine.
i did miss a cool moment at work on Tuesday. we had a Rhodesian Ridgeback fly out on us. this dog is also know as an African Lion dog, used by the European to fend off lions. i really wish i could have had him travel out on one of my shifts.this is one of my favorite breed of dogs. they are a good size animal, so you can play around with them and have a good watch dog as well. they are very loyal and are pretty mellow for the most part, they just need to be run a bit.
i knew a guy who was a "Deadhead" and he had a Ridgeback named Reggie. they were a perfect match, both mellow and friendly. this guy was also an electrician, and when he could he would bring Reggie along on the job. all his clients would ask if Reggie was coming "to work" with him, that's how much the dog was liked by people.
you don't get to see them that often, but when you do you can't mistake them as the hair that runs down their spine stand up, hence the name. if you do see one, go up and meet the dog, and you will see why they are a favorite of mine.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
10OCT07 / 11:20 / LAPTOP
there is either a problem with the clock of the blogging site or i hit save again iso post for yesterdays blog.
what a pleasant change this gentle rain is compared to the summer weather we have been having these past few days. i especially enjoy this type of rain, sitting under a porch or covered area, looking over an open field or my yard with a few trees in it. even though the traffic on the streets hasn't lessened, the rain compresses the sound of the cars, and lets you hear the sound of the local nature more clearly. it is amazing how busy the birds and squirrels are when the is a light rain. guess all the little critters they like to eat come up out of the ground when it rains.
last night thunder storm was great. i do the counting thing after a lightning flash to figure out how close the storm is to me. one thunder crack felt like it was in my house the way the air compression felt when it went off.
lets hope the temperature stays like this, cant get that spooky groove thing going when it is 80 and sunny.
what a pleasant change this gentle rain is compared to the summer weather we have been having these past few days. i especially enjoy this type of rain, sitting under a porch or covered area, looking over an open field or my yard with a few trees in it. even though the traffic on the streets hasn't lessened, the rain compresses the sound of the cars, and lets you hear the sound of the local nature more clearly. it is amazing how busy the birds and squirrels are when the is a light rain. guess all the little critters they like to eat come up out of the ground when it rains.
last night thunder storm was great. i do the counting thing after a lightning flash to figure out how close the storm is to me. one thunder crack felt like it was in my house the way the air compression felt when it went off.
lets hope the temperature stays like this, cant get that spooky groove thing going when it is 80 and sunny.
09OCT07 / 21:15 / LAPTOP
today was my youngest daughter first day of Pre -K. she was so excited to go but still a bit apprehensive. it is a good thing they split the class into two 45 minute session on the first day. it made it easier on the kids, teacher as well as some of the parents.
i was pleasantly surprised by how well behaved the kids were in this formal setting. they all knew to raise there hands and were quite good at waiting their turn. of course no one was better than my daughter, you will never convince me otherwise!
when we got back home, she had here little snack and the next thing i knew she was out cold. i guess it will take a while getting used to waking up at 07:30am. it is especially hard when she wont go to sleep until 22:00 at night.
we had a busy day , picking up her older sister from field hockey practice and taking her to German school. we also had family pizza night,which we haven't had in some time.
it was a nice change to have a good day. especially one which finally had some October weather to end the day.
i was pleasantly surprised by how well behaved the kids were in this formal setting. they all knew to raise there hands and were quite good at waiting their turn. of course no one was better than my daughter, you will never convince me otherwise!
when we got back home, she had here little snack and the next thing i knew she was out cold. i guess it will take a while getting used to waking up at 07:30am. it is especially hard when she wont go to sleep until 22:00 at night.
we had a busy day , picking up her older sister from field hockey practice and taking her to German school. we also had family pizza night,which we haven't had in some time.
it was a nice change to have a good day. especially one which finally had some October weather to end the day.
Monday, October 08, 2007
08OCT07 / 21:50 / WORK
today i was a animal relocation agent. we have a squirrel problem, as they have nested in the roof over our back porch. we set traps, bait them with a high quality mix walnuts, almonds, peanuts, raisins, and dried cranberries. usually the squirrels are slick enough not to get trapped in the cage, but once in a while they are not.
today was one of those times where the squirrel was slower than the trap door. once inside they get a little crazy and run back and forth or try to dig their way out. today's detainee was a bit more mellow.
i took the cage, and as always, gently put in a large black extra strength garbage bag, which is ventilated. i put the whole package i the trunk of my car and drive to work. near the airport are nicely wooded areas, full of oak trees. there i let the little rascal go. man can they move. this squirrel took off so fast he was out of sight in ten seconds.
not sure where he went, maybe he got an upgrade into first class and is earning some miles.
today was one of those times where the squirrel was slower than the trap door. once inside they get a little crazy and run back and forth or try to dig their way out. today's detainee was a bit more mellow.
i took the cage, and as always, gently put in a large black extra strength garbage bag, which is ventilated. i put the whole package i the trunk of my car and drive to work. near the airport are nicely wooded areas, full of oak trees. there i let the little rascal go. man can they move. this squirrel took off so fast he was out of sight in ten seconds.
not sure where he went, maybe he got an upgrade into first class and is earning some miles.
Sunday, October 07, 2007
07OCT07 / 21:22 / WORK
tonight i wanted to steer away from making another "venting" entry in this blog. i have come to the conclusion that my work ethic is far different from those who i have to supervise. i do not think that position has anything to do with it, but that it is just the simple fact of self worth.
but alas, a minor miscalculation by someone else in another department has affected our end of the operation. and again, we must come up with the solution for those who do not even make an attempt to accept accountability for their errors.
what ever happened to the idea of teamwork and communication? i guess it went out the window in this area today. it is not that we want other to do more than their share, but we just would like them to do just that, their share. and maybe once in a while GET IT CORRECT!!
i apologize to those you who read this blog on a daily basis for another version of my rant page. i truly would have preferred to use this time to write about something enlightening and light hearted. But on a positive note, by doing this i have a constructive outlet for releasing this stress, as opposed to holding in and getting higher blood pressure, and it works as a tools in developing my writing skills. I just hope that the positive note has a few more octaves in it !
but alas, a minor miscalculation by someone else in another department has affected our end of the operation. and again, we must come up with the solution for those who do not even make an attempt to accept accountability for their errors.
what ever happened to the idea of teamwork and communication? i guess it went out the window in this area today. it is not that we want other to do more than their share, but we just would like them to do just that, their share. and maybe once in a while GET IT CORRECT!!
i apologize to those you who read this blog on a daily basis for another version of my rant page. i truly would have preferred to use this time to write about something enlightening and light hearted. But on a positive note, by doing this i have a constructive outlet for releasing this stress, as opposed to holding in and getting higher blood pressure, and it works as a tools in developing my writing skills. I just hope that the positive note has a few more octaves in it !
Saturday, October 06, 2007
06OCT07 / 23:52 / WORK
OK i guess today is payback for the good day i had at work yesterday. took forever to get things done. due to full passenger count , not all shipments made it onto the flights. so now we just get to add these shipments to tomorrow's full flights, OH JOY.
one good thing though. got to speak with a really cool colleague from Scotland during the whole process of offloading cargo from the flights. he is the load controller. he plans how the flight gets loaded so it flies nice and level, and that it isn't overloaded. we had a few laughs during the whole thing, so it took off some of the stress. i told him he owes me a bottle of McCallans 18yr old for what he cost me today. Hope the flight he sends it on isn't too full!
one good thing though. got to speak with a really cool colleague from Scotland during the whole process of offloading cargo from the flights. he is the load controller. he plans how the flight gets loaded so it flies nice and level, and that it isn't overloaded. we had a few laughs during the whole thing, so it took off some of the stress. i told him he owes me a bottle of McCallans 18yr old for what he cost me today. Hope the flight he sends it on isn't too full!
Friday, October 05, 2007
05OCT / 23:41 / WORK
this has probably been the least pain night at work in a long time. that is because our handling had the right people call in sick, requiring the better people to stay overtime.
wont mention any names, but there is one agent that is the excuse queen, she will never own up to any mistakes, and she is a supervisor. her calling in sick was a blessing in disguise. reason being is that the morning supervisor had to stay on overtime to work our flights. what i normally have chase after to get from the "queen", he had ready for us before we could even ask, talk about proactivity and service. not that this was an anomaly for him, he works likes this all the time.
i am so glad that we are leaving this facility and will begin exclusive handling in our own warehouse. another month of this place, and then it is our way or the highway.
maybe then i will be able to blog about the finer things in life more often. or then maybe... N O T.
remember, when the world hands you lemons....wing 'em right back at 'em..but harder. ;}
wont mention any names, but there is one agent that is the excuse queen, she will never own up to any mistakes, and she is a supervisor. her calling in sick was a blessing in disguise. reason being is that the morning supervisor had to stay on overtime to work our flights. what i normally have chase after to get from the "queen", he had ready for us before we could even ask, talk about proactivity and service. not that this was an anomaly for him, he works likes this all the time.
i am so glad that we are leaving this facility and will begin exclusive handling in our own warehouse. another month of this place, and then it is our way or the highway.
maybe then i will be able to blog about the finer things in life more often. or then maybe... N O T.
remember, when the world hands you lemons....wing 'em right back at 'em..but harder. ;}
Thursday, October 04, 2007
04OCT07 / 22:40 / WORK
well the work week has started again for me. so far so good, but it ain't over yet. it is amazing how much effort it takes to get people to do the simplest thing correctly. guess they love to repeat things. but enough about work.
what is up with this weather? i enjoy the summer just as much as the next person, but when October comes around i need the weather to fit the ghoulish time of year. you just cant listen to Black Sabbath Volume 4 in 80 degree weather, it just wont work. it has to be twilight by 5pm at the latest, and even earlier as we get closer to Halloween. looks we will be getting more of the same through the weekend. guess i will need to pull out the Beach Boys' 8 tracks out of the summer boxes. maybe George needs to talk with Al more often.
what is up with this weather? i enjoy the summer just as much as the next person, but when October comes around i need the weather to fit the ghoulish time of year. you just cant listen to Black Sabbath Volume 4 in 80 degree weather, it just wont work. it has to be twilight by 5pm at the latest, and even earlier as we get closer to Halloween. looks we will be getting more of the same through the weekend. guess i will need to pull out the Beach Boys' 8 tracks out of the summer boxes. maybe George needs to talk with Al more often.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
03OCT07 / 22:38 / LAPTOP
tonight was the orientation for the parents of the pre- k students at the local school. our four year old will begin pre-k next week. time does really fly by. when i think back to when she was an infant and all the work involved in the daily care, to the toddler age and the forever child proofing attempts, and to where we are today with an independent, princess-loving, pink wearing, mermaids ARE real four year old. that school doesn't have a clue as to what they are in for.
found some irony in the PTA presidents presentation. she was telling all of us how important the PTA is, which it is, and how much it is involved with the development and representation of students nation wide. but with all the build up she has the following statement in her address " we have our meetings Tuesday mornings at 10:00am; we also meet once a month at 7:00pm for the Dads so that they can get a chance to attend as well". what struck me interesting about this is that all the Dads i know work shifts, usually afternoon or later starts. we would all be available for the weekly morning meetings. why is assumed that it is just for the moms??? strikes me as an assumption that most women may be taken aback by, in that it comes across that all moms are stay at home and don't have a career, or more likely an economic responsibility and have to work. maybe i just take this neighborhood too seriously and give them too much credit.
at any rate, is was an excellent presentation with regards to the school and it's pre-k program. it has many dedicated teachers and administrators that were genuinely interested in any and all of our questions. our next door neighbors have their three children in the school since day one and they rave about it. their kids are wonderful, intelligent, and kind. guess the school has got to be doing something right.
i cant wait for the first Tuesday morning PTA meeting. I think I'll bake some tarts.
found some irony in the PTA presidents presentation. she was telling all of us how important the PTA is, which it is, and how much it is involved with the development and representation of students nation wide. but with all the build up she has the following statement in her address " we have our meetings Tuesday mornings at 10:00am; we also meet once a month at 7:00pm for the Dads so that they can get a chance to attend as well". what struck me interesting about this is that all the Dads i know work shifts, usually afternoon or later starts. we would all be available for the weekly morning meetings. why is assumed that it is just for the moms??? strikes me as an assumption that most women may be taken aback by, in that it comes across that all moms are stay at home and don't have a career, or more likely an economic responsibility and have to work. maybe i just take this neighborhood too seriously and give them too much credit.
at any rate, is was an excellent presentation with regards to the school and it's pre-k program. it has many dedicated teachers and administrators that were genuinely interested in any and all of our questions. our next door neighbors have their three children in the school since day one and they rave about it. their kids are wonderful, intelligent, and kind. guess the school has got to be doing something right.
i cant wait for the first Tuesday morning PTA meeting. I think I'll bake some tarts.
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