I abhor driving in traffic, but Sara Jean has family in Chicago so we used to spend the better part of a day to go there to visit. Shortly after 9-11 we made the trek to stay with one of her loved ones. That was a huge mistake.
Chicago is deep blue... a strong union town.
We were assaulted with BDS from the time we walked in the door. I'm actually quite patient when I have to be, so I absorbed the nearly constant barrage for three days. No amount of reasoning would convince our host that the problems GWB faced were inherited from the Clinton administration...
According to him, ALL the ills the country faced were Bush's fault... less than a year from assuming the office.
I found my limit... it's about three days.
There's a silver lining to every black cloud... I don't feel compelled to drive to Chicago any longer.
So now I have a yardstick to use, provided by my Chicago loved ones...
If all the country's ills are not resolved by October of 2009, that will be because "The One" has failed us, right?
RIIIIIIIGHT!
I'll make you a wager now-
Obama's "fixes" for the country will probably make most problems worse. Solutions that do work will take longer than A.D.D. suffering constituents will like.
But it will all be Bush's fault...
For four years.
Who wants to take my money?
24 November 2008
22 November 2008
Le Cafe
Coffee is good for you.
Coffee is bad for you.
What's the latest "Scientific" ruling this week?
I've written before what a huge coffee drinker my Old Man was...
He probably drank more than a half-gallon per day, yet slept like a baby.
I like coffee, but when I drink more than four or five cups you'd think I have palsy.
Sara Jean is an addictive personality. When I first met her she didn't drink coffee, but Dad changed that in one weekend. All he had to do was show her how to add cream and sugar, and she was nearly keeping pace with his consumption. And though Dad is now gone, his tradition of coffee drinking continues in his beloved Daughter-in-law. Our "Mr. Coffee" perks an "Army pot" at 6 A.M., and if I don't roll my lazy hindquarters out of bed by 8, I'll have to brew a new pot... she'll smile like the Cheshire Cat and shrug her shoulders, and be second in line for a cup when the next pot finishes.
I don't know how folks like Dad and Sara Jean do it. Obviously, others have the same thoughts:
Coffee is bad for you.
What's the latest "Scientific" ruling this week?
I've written before what a huge coffee drinker my Old Man was...
He probably drank more than a half-gallon per day, yet slept like a baby.
I like coffee, but when I drink more than four or five cups you'd think I have palsy.
Sara Jean is an addictive personality. When I first met her she didn't drink coffee, but Dad changed that in one weekend. All he had to do was show her how to add cream and sugar, and she was nearly keeping pace with his consumption. And though Dad is now gone, his tradition of coffee drinking continues in his beloved Daughter-in-law. Our "Mr. Coffee" perks an "Army pot" at 6 A.M., and if I don't roll my lazy hindquarters out of bed by 8, I'll have to brew a new pot... she'll smile like the Cheshire Cat and shrug her shoulders, and be second in line for a cup when the next pot finishes.
I don't know how folks like Dad and Sara Jean do it. Obviously, others have the same thoughts:
21 November 2008
20 November 2008
19 November 2008
Gadgets
First, a story:
One of the fondest memories of my life started off badly. I need to give you a little background so you'll better understand...
He barely made it into High School, but my Dad was one of the smartest people on earth.
Give him something that didn't work and he generally could figure out why it wouldn't function.
Most frequently, if it was fixable he could fix it.
But if you looked in the dictionary under MACHO, you'd see a picture of my Dad. There was nothing he hated worse than being embarrassed. He'd do ANYTHING to avoid being thrust into a situation where he might be embarrassed.
Dad flew airplanes, and was fascinated by helicopters. When the guy that was supposed to come home from California with me in an R22 canceled out, Dad jumped at my offer to fill the seat.
I was delighted with the idea of spending three days flying cross-country with my Old Man.
I borrowed a Garmin 296 GPS from a friend for the trip. To my Dad I said, "Getting out of the L.A. basin, unfamiliar with the area, with all that controlled airspace and all the student pilot traffic is always stressful. I need your help to stay out of trouble."
So I put the unit in "simulation mode" and handed it to him-
"You can't hurt it Dad. Play around with it until you're comfortable. Let me know if you have any questions." And I walked away figuring he'd be busy for an hour or so.
Fifteen minutes later I check on him and find the unit turned off, sitting next to him on the end table. I disguise the fact that I'm furious as I ask, "So, you know how that thing works now?"
"I'm afraid I'm gonna break it."
I know him well enough to know it's hopeless. I'm stuck with flying, navigating, communicating, and avoiding other traffic safely out of L.A. with a live bag of potatoes in the co-pilot seat.
And with the necessary planning I did fine. I had Dad hold the 296 where I could refer to it, and he watched as I pushed buttons to get the information I needed. He watched as the moving map on the unit unfolded. He shook his head in amazement as he'd look at the airplane on the 296 fly over a railroad track, then look below the helicopter to see we were EXACTLY over a railroad track.
When we got home he asked, "How much do these things cost?"
Then he went and bought a Garmin Streetpilot III.
It wasn't cheap. At the time, I think he paid $1,300 for the thing. For three years he enjoyed showing it off to all his friends and family. A few days before he died, he gave it to me, and five years later it still works great.
But time marches on, and I've been exposed to newer GPS units. You've probably seen them or seen them advertised...
These machines talk to you.
They prompt you to enter an address and then guide you to your destination.
Push the "home" button, and they will guide you home when you are hopelessly lost in a scary neighborhood.
Two weeks ago, Sara Jean bought this unit for me.
For a little over $200 we got the GPS and a bean-bag mount that sits securely on the dash to keep the unit in place. I'll be able to program it and be confident Sara Jean won't drive into that dangerous neighborhood. Many of you probably have a GPS already. Those of you that don't, for whatever reason, need to look into buying one. And cost shouldn't be an issue...
We've seen some good ones selling for as little as $100 on EBay. Big Bubba bought one and is more than satisfied with it.
More gadgets-
Pilots, have you ever used these?
Yeah, I know... Yikes! A thousand dollars?
We have two of them in the R22, and I think they're worth the cost. It's difficult to describe the amount of noise they cancel out. If you've never used them, find someone that has a set and have them demonstrate them to you. You'll be amazed.
In certain frequency ranges I'm nearly deaf. I believe a pilot starting her/his career today using an active-noise-canceling headset may not suffer my fate at career's end.
Here too, perfectly good substitutes are available for a lot less than $1,000.
There are several models of noise canceling headphones intended for use in non-aviation environments that are reasonably priced. I'll assume they're as effective as the aviation headsets at reducing noise levels, and I'd recommend buying one if your work exposes you to a lot of noise.
Sometimes gadgets seem like toys...
Until you start using them and get accustomed to 'em.
Then, (remember your first microwave oven?), you wonder "How did I ever get along without that?"
One of the fondest memories of my life started off badly. I need to give you a little background so you'll better understand...
He barely made it into High School, but my Dad was one of the smartest people on earth.
Give him something that didn't work and he generally could figure out why it wouldn't function.
Most frequently, if it was fixable he could fix it.
But if you looked in the dictionary under MACHO, you'd see a picture of my Dad. There was nothing he hated worse than being embarrassed. He'd do ANYTHING to avoid being thrust into a situation where he might be embarrassed.
Dad flew airplanes, and was fascinated by helicopters. When the guy that was supposed to come home from California with me in an R22 canceled out, Dad jumped at my offer to fill the seat.
I was delighted with the idea of spending three days flying cross-country with my Old Man.
I borrowed a Garmin 296 GPS from a friend for the trip. To my Dad I said, "Getting out of the L.A. basin, unfamiliar with the area, with all that controlled airspace and all the student pilot traffic is always stressful. I need your help to stay out of trouble."
So I put the unit in "simulation mode" and handed it to him-
"You can't hurt it Dad. Play around with it until you're comfortable. Let me know if you have any questions." And I walked away figuring he'd be busy for an hour or so.
Fifteen minutes later I check on him and find the unit turned off, sitting next to him on the end table. I disguise the fact that I'm furious as I ask, "So, you know how that thing works now?"
"I'm afraid I'm gonna break it."
I know him well enough to know it's hopeless. I'm stuck with flying, navigating, communicating, and avoiding other traffic safely out of L.A. with a live bag of potatoes in the co-pilot seat.
And with the necessary planning I did fine. I had Dad hold the 296 where I could refer to it, and he watched as I pushed buttons to get the information I needed. He watched as the moving map on the unit unfolded. He shook his head in amazement as he'd look at the airplane on the 296 fly over a railroad track, then look below the helicopter to see we were EXACTLY over a railroad track.
When we got home he asked, "How much do these things cost?"
Then he went and bought a Garmin Streetpilot III.
It wasn't cheap. At the time, I think he paid $1,300 for the thing. For three years he enjoyed showing it off to all his friends and family. A few days before he died, he gave it to me, and five years later it still works great.
But time marches on, and I've been exposed to newer GPS units. You've probably seen them or seen them advertised...
These machines talk to you.
They prompt you to enter an address and then guide you to your destination.
Push the "home" button, and they will guide you home when you are hopelessly lost in a scary neighborhood.
Two weeks ago, Sara Jean bought this unit for me.
For a little over $200 we got the GPS and a bean-bag mount that sits securely on the dash to keep the unit in place. I'll be able to program it and be confident Sara Jean won't drive into that dangerous neighborhood. Many of you probably have a GPS already. Those of you that don't, for whatever reason, need to look into buying one. And cost shouldn't be an issue...
We've seen some good ones selling for as little as $100 on EBay. Big Bubba bought one and is more than satisfied with it.
More gadgets-
Pilots, have you ever used these?
Yeah, I know... Yikes! A thousand dollars?
We have two of them in the R22, and I think they're worth the cost. It's difficult to describe the amount of noise they cancel out. If you've never used them, find someone that has a set and have them demonstrate them to you. You'll be amazed.
In certain frequency ranges I'm nearly deaf. I believe a pilot starting her/his career today using an active-noise-canceling headset may not suffer my fate at career's end.
Here too, perfectly good substitutes are available for a lot less than $1,000.
There are several models of noise canceling headphones intended for use in non-aviation environments that are reasonably priced. I'll assume they're as effective as the aviation headsets at reducing noise levels, and I'd recommend buying one if your work exposes you to a lot of noise.
Sometimes gadgets seem like toys...
Until you start using them and get accustomed to 'em.
Then, (remember your first microwave oven?), you wonder "How did I ever get along without that?"
18 November 2008
17 November 2008
Ghost Rider
When I heard about the movie Ghost Rider, I was disappointed to find it wasn't based on the antics of this
"Ghost Rider":
"Ghost Rider":
14 November 2008
Who Killed The Electric Car?
Here we go again.
Since I was a kid, Popular Mechanics magazine has done this to me-
"Amazing new process promises Golden-Egg laying goose in every household!" And inevitably the article comes with wonderful pictures to help you visualize the goose dropping the golden orb into its nest on your hearth. Life will be nearly perfect.
Riiiight.
I wish I had a nickel for every "build your own helicopter" article I've read. I'm disgusted enough with those that I quickly skip them... AFTER looking at the pictures.
Regular readers know I have a 32 mile drive to work. For this post, that's an important number. With present battery technology, 30-40 miles seems to be the max. range for most of the electric cars I've researched...
That's with NEW batteries and optimum weather conditions. And that leaves many questions unanswered:
-What if it's raining and I have to use windshield wipers for the entire drive?
-What effect will headlights have on nighttime range?
-What will cold temperatures do to battery performance?
-What about heat during Winter... A/C in the Summer?
I've had an ongoing conversation with a friend/former classmate about a movie she saw-
"Who Killed The Electric Car?"
It's another of those "Michael Moore" style movies that suggests there was some sort of Government/Big Oil conspiracy to keep electrics from gaining a foothold.
I'm really skeptical.
We've all used golf carts.
We have one at the airport that we use to run errands there. It's a wonderful tool and we use it a lot. But the batteries get weaker and weaker, shrinking the range of the cart until they have to be replaced. Then WOW... the cost of replacing the batteries is quite a shock!
Some time ago we discussed this same topic when Tesla issued the press release on their Roadster. Obviously it is gorgeous. It's also very quick, and Tesla claimed a range that would make it practical for me to use on my daily commute. But there was a six-figure problem: It comes with a $140,000 price tag. At $5 per gallon for gasoline, I could drive my present beater 700,000 miles with that money.
And then there's this.
Even with a six-figure price tag rich folks were lining up to buy the car, yet Tesla can't seem to get the cars to prospective buyers. Remember the DeLorean, folks? There's a reason we don't see new companies getting into the automobile business every day.
But with the present energy environment electrics are sexy. I've been watching this one for some time now. It's interesting because it will have "motorcycle" status in many states and will sneak underneath the safety requirements for cars, thereby lessening production costs. (Not to say it's not safe... check the link for details.)
Now, again thanks to Popular Mechanics magazine, I'm watching the new kid on the block. Sexy. An enthusiasts car, promising useful range. But there's still that $$$$ problem, isn't there?
At some point there will be a "Wilbur and Orville" moment in this industry, and it all revolves around some sort of battery revolution. We're not quite there yet.
But maybe tomorrow?
I'll keep reading Popular Mechanics and I'll update ya when something exciting happens.
Since I was a kid, Popular Mechanics magazine has done this to me-
"Amazing new process promises Golden-Egg laying goose in every household!" And inevitably the article comes with wonderful pictures to help you visualize the goose dropping the golden orb into its nest on your hearth. Life will be nearly perfect.
Riiiight.
I wish I had a nickel for every "build your own helicopter" article I've read. I'm disgusted enough with those that I quickly skip them... AFTER looking at the pictures.
Regular readers know I have a 32 mile drive to work. For this post, that's an important number. With present battery technology, 30-40 miles seems to be the max. range for most of the electric cars I've researched...
That's with NEW batteries and optimum weather conditions. And that leaves many questions unanswered:
-What if it's raining and I have to use windshield wipers for the entire drive?
-What effect will headlights have on nighttime range?
-What will cold temperatures do to battery performance?
-What about heat during Winter... A/C in the Summer?
I've had an ongoing conversation with a friend/former classmate about a movie she saw-
"Who Killed The Electric Car?"
It's another of those "Michael Moore" style movies that suggests there was some sort of Government/Big Oil conspiracy to keep electrics from gaining a foothold.
I'm really skeptical.
We've all used golf carts.
We have one at the airport that we use to run errands there. It's a wonderful tool and we use it a lot. But the batteries get weaker and weaker, shrinking the range of the cart until they have to be replaced. Then WOW... the cost of replacing the batteries is quite a shock!
Some time ago we discussed this same topic when Tesla issued the press release on their Roadster. Obviously it is gorgeous. It's also very quick, and Tesla claimed a range that would make it practical for me to use on my daily commute. But there was a six-figure problem: It comes with a $140,000 price tag. At $5 per gallon for gasoline, I could drive my present beater 700,000 miles with that money.
And then there's this.
Even with a six-figure price tag rich folks were lining up to buy the car, yet Tesla can't seem to get the cars to prospective buyers. Remember the DeLorean, folks? There's a reason we don't see new companies getting into the automobile business every day.
But with the present energy environment electrics are sexy. I've been watching this one for some time now. It's interesting because it will have "motorcycle" status in many states and will sneak underneath the safety requirements for cars, thereby lessening production costs. (Not to say it's not safe... check the link for details.)
Now, again thanks to Popular Mechanics magazine, I'm watching the new kid on the block. Sexy. An enthusiasts car, promising useful range. But there's still that $$$$ problem, isn't there?
At some point there will be a "Wilbur and Orville" moment in this industry, and it all revolves around some sort of battery revolution. We're not quite there yet.
But maybe tomorrow?
I'll keep reading Popular Mechanics and I'll update ya when something exciting happens.
13 November 2008
Irony
In '68-'69 I hugged my loved ones and was transported halfway around the world, got shot at and daily put myself into situations not conducive to longevity, trying to keep a group of perfect strangers from being subjected to a Socialist government.
Try to imagine how I feel today.
Try to imagine how I feel today.
11 November 2008
Some Gave All
There were seven Infantry troops aboard the Huey.
Add Pilot, Co-Pilot, Crew Chief and Gunner, and you come up with 11 "Souls on Board".
If we found something of military interest on our recons, we could insert our "Animals" to investigate more closely. But something out of the ordinary popped up-
The Huey pilot called the team leader,
"Lead, Slick has a problem."
"What's your problem, Slick?"
"My transmission oil pressure is reading zero... segment caution light is on too."
"Well, what d'ya think?"
The Slick was a long way from friendly forces. Making a precautionary landing would put the entire crew at risk on the ground, and would cause lots of complications.
"I think we'll press on. If the transmission oil temperature goes up, I'll know we truly have a problem."
...Fatal mistake.
The transmission oil temperature gauge sending unit receives its reading from a probe that must be in contact with the oil flow to work properly. In a situation where the oil is all gone, it has nothing to read and will not indicate a rise in temperature.
This transmission was dry.
The Slick flew on for several minutes while the gears in the transmission, lacking the lubrication and cooling afforded by its oil supply, got hotter and hotter. It eventually got so hot it seized solid and the rotor came to a complete stop. The slick and all aboard plummeted 2,500 feet to the ground...
Eleven dead because the Pilot and Co-Pilot didn't know how the transmission lubrication system worked.
This incident happened to my Viet Nam unit shortly after I returned home.
The Pilot, a guy I knew well, was a serious, quiet, thoughtful young man.
Along with many others, I think of him and all the rest on that aircraft on Veterans Day.
Our military is the tip of our spear.
All who wear the uniform are at risk. We cannot say it often enough...
Thank you Veterans.
10 November 2008
Be Careful What You Wish For-
When I've expressed my concerns before, they've been called "exaggerated" or "overblown", and I actually hoped I was wrong.
I wasn't wrong.
You know the old saying, "All it takes for evil to succeed is for good men to do nothing"?
Remember it.
Say it loud.
Say it again and again.
We are facing a very dangerous time in the country. Certain factions have bandied the terms "fascist" and "murderer" around so often and for so long, those words may have become meaningless to them, or they may have forgotten the true meaning of the words.
The same people that used them are now threatening and assaulting their fellow citizens.
Read this.
Read it carefully.
Click and read the links.
Then realize, we are about to be represented by a democrat House of Representatives, a democrat Senate, and a democrat President who will likely nominate at least two activist Supreme Court Justices during his term...
Justices who are SUPPOSED to protect the freedom of speech of ALL citizens.
Hope and Change?
We're certainly getting the change.
And the thugs that resorted early in the Bush administration to allusion and nasty name-calling are HOPING for more of this.
God help us ALL to see the light.
I wasn't wrong.
You know the old saying, "All it takes for evil to succeed is for good men to do nothing"?
Remember it.
Say it loud.
Say it again and again.
We are facing a very dangerous time in the country. Certain factions have bandied the terms "fascist" and "murderer" around so often and for so long, those words may have become meaningless to them, or they may have forgotten the true meaning of the words.
The same people that used them are now threatening and assaulting their fellow citizens.
Read this.
Read it carefully.
Click and read the links.
Then realize, we are about to be represented by a democrat House of Representatives, a democrat Senate, and a democrat President who will likely nominate at least two activist Supreme Court Justices during his term...
Justices who are SUPPOSED to protect the freedom of speech of ALL citizens.
Hope and Change?
We're certainly getting the change.
And the thugs that resorted early in the Bush administration to allusion and nasty name-calling are HOPING for more of this.
God help us ALL to see the light.
09 November 2008
No Fear, The Fun WILL Continue!
Our President-Elect holds his first press conference.
Those that have enjoyed GWB's malapropisms were concerned that the coming four years would be joyless. Imagine the rejoicing, hearing the treasure trove of "Bushisms" that issued forth:
"I have spoken to all of them (Presidents) that are living..."
Uhh, WHAT?
Rewind... rewatch.
Yep, he REALLY did say that!
Remind me... what is this guy's I.Q.?
Then, realizing what a foolish statement that was, he tried to make with the funny, and in doing so, made fun of an elderly widow. Bad form, mate.
At least he had the class to call and apologize to Nancy right away.
He's such an eloquent speaker, reading a prepared speech from a teleprompter. But when he "wings it" on his own, the sweat beads up on his forehead and he hems and haws and uhhhhs so much, he's really uncomfortable to watch. It's obvious he doesn't think quickly on his feet.
Regulars here know I view John McCain as "democrat lite", and had pretty much kissed this election off until he selected Sarah.
Liberal repubs are now attacking her with foolishness, fearful that another "Reagan Revolution" is about to take place.
Guess what sports fans...
Your fears are about to be realized.
The economy is a mess.
You can only "give the store away" for so long before the bills come due.
This economy was goin' into the pooper, no matter who was elected. Only question is, who would have the best ideas to bring us out of the malaise. Do we "bleed the patient" to rid it of toxins?
Recovery will be a long slog. No one is gonna be happy while we slog.
What happens to our military?
Will Obama support their mission, or will he follow through on his promise to an early withdrawal, thereby insuring Iraq will be another Viet Nam, as democrats have promised?
Will he cut the military budget so drastically we end up with another "Carter Era"?
And this Home Defense Corps he's planning...
What affect will that have on our fighting forces?
It'll be interesting to see how long it takes his adoring followers to realize he's just an ordinary man... a politician, brought up in the ways of Chicago politics.
Watching him stumble about in this press conference was a hoot.
And the malapropisms... What to call them?
My vote is for "Obama-Bushisms"!
Those that have enjoyed GWB's malapropisms were concerned that the coming four years would be joyless. Imagine the rejoicing, hearing the treasure trove of "Bushisms" that issued forth:
"I have spoken to all of them (Presidents) that are living..."
Uhh, WHAT?
Rewind... rewatch.
Yep, he REALLY did say that!
Remind me... what is this guy's I.Q.?
Then, realizing what a foolish statement that was, he tried to make with the funny, and in doing so, made fun of an elderly widow. Bad form, mate.
At least he had the class to call and apologize to Nancy right away.
He's such an eloquent speaker, reading a prepared speech from a teleprompter. But when he "wings it" on his own, the sweat beads up on his forehead and he hems and haws and uhhhhs so much, he's really uncomfortable to watch. It's obvious he doesn't think quickly on his feet.
Regulars here know I view John McCain as "democrat lite", and had pretty much kissed this election off until he selected Sarah.
Liberal repubs are now attacking her with foolishness, fearful that another "Reagan Revolution" is about to take place.
Guess what sports fans...
Your fears are about to be realized.
The economy is a mess.
You can only "give the store away" for so long before the bills come due.
This economy was goin' into the pooper, no matter who was elected. Only question is, who would have the best ideas to bring us out of the malaise. Do we "bleed the patient" to rid it of toxins?
Recovery will be a long slog. No one is gonna be happy while we slog.
What happens to our military?
Will Obama support their mission, or will he follow through on his promise to an early withdrawal, thereby insuring Iraq will be another Viet Nam, as democrats have promised?
Will he cut the military budget so drastically we end up with another "Carter Era"?
And this Home Defense Corps he's planning...
What affect will that have on our fighting forces?
It'll be interesting to see how long it takes his adoring followers to realize he's just an ordinary man... a politician, brought up in the ways of Chicago politics.
Watching him stumble about in this press conference was a hoot.
And the malapropisms... What to call them?
My vote is for "Obama-Bushisms"!
07 November 2008
"Goodbye House."
More and more of us are experiencing this pain.
Fair warning... tissues handy.
Thanks Cary for leading us there.
Fair warning... tissues handy.
Thanks Cary for leading us there.
I.B. The Decider
I've now been blogging 3-1/2 years.
When I started blogging, I knew I didn't want to blog solely about flying. Flying is neat, and I've had many wonderful, and not-so-wonderful experiences flying,
I suspect I'll be able to blog about flying until I retire, and after. But I'm a curious sort and I wanted to blog about just about anything I encounter that interests me. Therefore, "Musings about life...."
It's obvious I enjoy jousting about politics. And if you're smart, you know most of life is about politics in one way or another. Those that realize that up front have a bit of an advantage in life.
But talking politics can cause tempers to rise.
The last few elections have been interesting and emotional because the country is split nearly 50/50, and voters on both sides think the other side is crazy and trying to destroy the country.
That ain't gonna change any time soon.
I started moderating comments two years ago.
I will publish a comment that vehemently disagrees with me, so long as the commenter makes an intelligent point, doesn't just rehash what he/she has already said, and isn't vulgar, stupid, or profane. In the two years I have been moderating comments I have "gleefully rejected" three comments...
One for profanity, one because it was mean-spirited and added nothing to the discussion, and one because it was stupid AND a personal attack on me... "The Decider".
And please, try to imagine my grin when I truly do "gleefully" push the button that commits a crappy comment to the ethereal ashcan-
CLICK...
"That'll make 'em angry!"
-Big Greybeard grin.
Some of you come here often because like me, you love blogs.
I was knocked out by "Little Green Football's" revelation that Dan Rather and CBS were lying about George Bush being AWOL a couple years ago. Those of us that read blogs regularly are better informed than other citizens because we are free to choose what subject to pursue and how deeply to pursue it. Commenters add a great deal to that learning experience.
And commenters should be allowed to say what's on their mind if they disagree.
So please, add to the conversation.
Comment away.
Just don't be stupid, profane, or dull.
When I started blogging, I knew I didn't want to blog solely about flying. Flying is neat, and I've had many wonderful, and not-so-wonderful experiences flying,
I suspect I'll be able to blog about flying until I retire, and after. But I'm a curious sort and I wanted to blog about just about anything I encounter that interests me. Therefore, "Musings about life...."
It's obvious I enjoy jousting about politics. And if you're smart, you know most of life is about politics in one way or another. Those that realize that up front have a bit of an advantage in life.
But talking politics can cause tempers to rise.
The last few elections have been interesting and emotional because the country is split nearly 50/50, and voters on both sides think the other side is crazy and trying to destroy the country.
That ain't gonna change any time soon.
I started moderating comments two years ago.
I will publish a comment that vehemently disagrees with me, so long as the commenter makes an intelligent point, doesn't just rehash what he/she has already said, and isn't vulgar, stupid, or profane. In the two years I have been moderating comments I have "gleefully rejected" three comments...
One for profanity, one because it was mean-spirited and added nothing to the discussion, and one because it was stupid AND a personal attack on me... "The Decider".
And please, try to imagine my grin when I truly do "gleefully" push the button that commits a crappy comment to the ethereal ashcan-
CLICK...
"That'll make 'em angry!"
-Big Greybeard grin.
Some of you come here often because like me, you love blogs.
I was knocked out by "Little Green Football's" revelation that Dan Rather and CBS were lying about George Bush being AWOL a couple years ago. Those of us that read blogs regularly are better informed than other citizens because we are free to choose what subject to pursue and how deeply to pursue it. Commenters add a great deal to that learning experience.
And commenters should be allowed to say what's on their mind if they disagree.
So please, add to the conversation.
Comment away.
Just don't be stupid, profane, or dull.
06 November 2008
Post-Election Thoughts-
Just a couple quick thoughts to share:
-McCain campaign workers apparently were upset when greeted by a Bath towel (bathrobe?) clad Sarah Palin.
Please, Sarah, greet me that way!
-In a comment below, DDF reminds us it took Jimmah to usher in the Reagan era.
We cannot forget that with each setback comes opportunity:
I still think this administration is going to be a disaster.
The mid-term elections are less than two years away.
Get to work.
-McCain campaign workers apparently were upset when greeted by a Bath towel (bathrobe?) clad Sarah Palin.
Please, Sarah, greet me that way!
-In a comment below, DDF reminds us it took Jimmah to usher in the Reagan era.
We cannot forget that with each setback comes opportunity:
I still think this administration is going to be a disaster.
The mid-term elections are less than two years away.
Get to work.
05 November 2008
Quick Transition Thought-
I know, the Bush administration is much too adult to pull such a stunt.
But I had to snicker, thinking about the possibility they might remove all the zeros from all the keyboards in the White House.
But I had to snicker, thinking about the possibility they might remove all the zeros from all the keyboards in the White House.
Black Clouds, Silver Linings.
I expected to be up very late last night, watching election returns.
What a surprise...
What with Black Panthers with nightsticks and all the A.C.O.R.N. shenanigans, McCain had every right to pull an "AlGore" and muddy the waters for weeks to come. The fact he didn't says volumes, and illustrates the difference between class and classless.
Thank you Senator.
Some quick thoughts from my point of view:
Wonderful and horrible-
How wonderful that the U.S. showed a minority can accede to the highest office of the land!
Now that it is obvious minorities are truly equal, how long can affirmative action policies continue?
Are the days of thugs like Jesse Jackson coming to an end?
Will minorities in general, and blacks in particular now use Barack Obama as a role model, rather than Snoop Dogg?
We can hope.
But what a can of worms this man has been handed. And sadly... the methods he says he'll use to remedy the situation have been shown, historically, to make things worse.
I fear the next four years will be frustrating for him, and painful for us all.
And for Obama worshippers like Peggy Joseph, a huge disappointment is in store.
That's tough, and sad.
However...
From the ashes rises the Phoenix.
The republican party is down so far, the bottom looks like up.
I'm hopeful party leaders will study the lessons of this election...
Nominating a "rino" and trying to attract left-leaning moderates almost made this election a fiasco. McCain's selecting Sarah Palin for a running mate re-invigorated his campaign. In order to survive, it's obvious the tack the party must take.
So here we are, making history.
Enjoy it now.
From this point on it will get painful.
What a surprise...
What with Black Panthers with nightsticks and all the A.C.O.R.N. shenanigans, McCain had every right to pull an "AlGore" and muddy the waters for weeks to come. The fact he didn't says volumes, and illustrates the difference between class and classless.
Thank you Senator.
Some quick thoughts from my point of view:
Wonderful and horrible-
How wonderful that the U.S. showed a minority can accede to the highest office of the land!
Now that it is obvious minorities are truly equal, how long can affirmative action policies continue?
Are the days of thugs like Jesse Jackson coming to an end?
Will minorities in general, and blacks in particular now use Barack Obama as a role model, rather than Snoop Dogg?
We can hope.
But what a can of worms this man has been handed. And sadly... the methods he says he'll use to remedy the situation have been shown, historically, to make things worse.
I fear the next four years will be frustrating for him, and painful for us all.
And for Obama worshippers like Peggy Joseph, a huge disappointment is in store.
That's tough, and sad.
However...
From the ashes rises the Phoenix.
The republican party is down so far, the bottom looks like up.
I'm hopeful party leaders will study the lessons of this election...
Nominating a "rino" and trying to attract left-leaning moderates almost made this election a fiasco. McCain's selecting Sarah Palin for a running mate re-invigorated his campaign. In order to survive, it's obvious the tack the party must take.
So here we are, making history.
Enjoy it now.
From this point on it will get painful.
Distress
I just spent a few minutes watching Fox News with Megyn Kelly and Bill Hemmer.
They were showing video of the crowd celebrating Obama's victory outside the White House last night.
Carried by that happy crowd-
This flag, unnoticed by anyone but me, apparently.
Ten seconds later-
Video of a crowd somewhere in the Arab world, once again celebrating, carrying Old Glory like this.
Sigh.
UPDATE, 30 Minutes later.
Someone noticed and emailed.
Megyn focuses on the Hammer and Sickle.
They were showing video of the crowd celebrating Obama's victory outside the White House last night.
Carried by that happy crowd-
This flag, unnoticed by anyone but me, apparently.
Ten seconds later-
Video of a crowd somewhere in the Arab world, once again celebrating, carrying Old Glory like this.
Sigh.
UPDATE, 30 Minutes later.
Someone noticed and emailed.
Megyn focuses on the Hammer and Sickle.
The Misery Index
Well it's over.
Didn't turn out as I had hoped, but I take some degree of relief in the fact that, like any journey, you put one foot in front of the other until you get where you're goin'.
Things will get better, someday.
To those BHO supporters that stop by here- Congratulations.
Your candidate ran a smart campaign.
Now what?
Many of us lived through the Carter years. Many have predicted the coming years will be as bad or worse than those years.
God help us.
I'm glad I'm not looking for a job in a technical field.
For those that didn't live through the Carter years, a primer is necessary:
When Jimmy Carter ran against Gerald Ford, he introduced most of us to
"the misery index"...
A simple formula-
The rate of inflation, added to the unemployment rate.
During his campaign in 1976 he asked voters, "Are you better off now than you were four years ago?"
Most folks had to answer no.
In 1976 the misery index stood at 14%.
Carter was a nice man... Navy Veteran, Christian, peanut farmer.
Folks were ready for change, and handily elected him.
(I voted for Jimmah.)
He was a poor leader, an indecisive President.
At the end of his term, candidate Ronald Reagan made a fool of him by asking, as Carter did four years before:
"Are you better off now than you were four years ago?"
In 1980, the last year of Carter's administration, the misery index hit its highest mark in history- 22%.
As a public service to all my dear readers, I intend to start keeping track of the misery index.
As you can see at the link, it currently stands at 11%.
I suspect that will change quickly.
Care to take a shot at a prediction?
Didn't turn out as I had hoped, but I take some degree of relief in the fact that, like any journey, you put one foot in front of the other until you get where you're goin'.
Things will get better, someday.
To those BHO supporters that stop by here- Congratulations.
Your candidate ran a smart campaign.
Now what?
Many of us lived through the Carter years. Many have predicted the coming years will be as bad or worse than those years.
God help us.
I'm glad I'm not looking for a job in a technical field.
For those that didn't live through the Carter years, a primer is necessary:
When Jimmy Carter ran against Gerald Ford, he introduced most of us to
"the misery index"...
A simple formula-
The rate of inflation, added to the unemployment rate.
During his campaign in 1976 he asked voters, "Are you better off now than you were four years ago?"
Most folks had to answer no.
In 1976 the misery index stood at 14%.
Carter was a nice man... Navy Veteran, Christian, peanut farmer.
Folks were ready for change, and handily elected him.
(I voted for Jimmah.)
He was a poor leader, an indecisive President.
At the end of his term, candidate Ronald Reagan made a fool of him by asking, as Carter did four years before:
"Are you better off now than you were four years ago?"
In 1980, the last year of Carter's administration, the misery index hit its highest mark in history- 22%.
As a public service to all my dear readers, I intend to start keeping track of the misery index.
As you can see at the link, it currently stands at 11%.
I suspect that will change quickly.
Care to take a shot at a prediction?
03 November 2008
Sara Jean, On The Vanguard!
"When are you going to vote?"
"As I'm coming home from work, honey. Why?"
"Come by and pick me up. I want to go with you."
She's been registered to vote for years, but this will be her first time in the polling booth.
She knows how important this is.
"As I'm coming home from work, honey. Why?"
"Come by and pick me up. I want to go with you."
She's been registered to vote for years, but this will be her first time in the polling booth.
She knows how important this is.
02 November 2008
31 October 2008
The Halloween Deputy
Late Halloween night.
He collided with a train.
Trains win EVERY SINGLE TIME.
He wore a Deputy Sheriff's uniform, complete with (real) badge.
Returning from a party, he had a load of ethyl alcohol on board.
He was in trouble. If he truly was a Deputy, he was in a HEAP of trouble.
The ER had called the Sheriff's department for information. All they could do was affirm an officer by that name worked for them.
Both his femurs were broken. I've written before about the force required to do that...
Force so powerful it can burst or dislodge organs from their attachment points.
He definitely needed the helicopter.
Whether or not he was a Deputy had no effect on his medical care.
But somehow it did affect the stress level of all providing the care...
Were we dealing with someone who, like a soldier, regularly put his life on the line for others?
If so, what would cause him to be so intoxicated, even on a Halloween night?
This accident would be a life altering event, no matter what.
Would his job also be in jeopardy?
We loaded and transported him to the trauma center, still not knowing his official status.
Only later did we hear our patient's brother had loaned him his uniform for a family Halloween party.
And he survived.
He collided with a train.
Trains win EVERY SINGLE TIME.
He wore a Deputy Sheriff's uniform, complete with (real) badge.
Returning from a party, he had a load of ethyl alcohol on board.
He was in trouble. If he truly was a Deputy, he was in a HEAP of trouble.
The ER had called the Sheriff's department for information. All they could do was affirm an officer by that name worked for them.
Both his femurs were broken. I've written before about the force required to do that...
Force so powerful it can burst or dislodge organs from their attachment points.
He definitely needed the helicopter.
Whether or not he was a Deputy had no effect on his medical care.
But somehow it did affect the stress level of all providing the care...
Were we dealing with someone who, like a soldier, regularly put his life on the line for others?
If so, what would cause him to be so intoxicated, even on a Halloween night?
This accident would be a life altering event, no matter what.
Would his job also be in jeopardy?
We loaded and transported him to the trauma center, still not knowing his official status.
Only later did we hear our patient's brother had loaned him his uniform for a family Halloween party.
And he survived.
Compare and Contrast
Common sense isn't common.
This guy was brilliant.
Compare this video to the "no worry about my gas tank, no worry about my mortgage" video below.
Vote. Use your "un"common sense.
(Stolen at Fatale Abstraction.)
This Election's BIG Loser
The media.
And as a result, the news consuming public.
No matter the outcome, the winner of this election will be considered illegitimate, because our news organizations have failed us.
I don't think we yet realize how big a deal that is.
And as a result, the news consuming public.
No matter the outcome, the winner of this election will be considered illegitimate, because our news organizations have failed us.
I don't think we yet realize how big a deal that is.
Via Email From a Friend-
Dear Fellow Business Owner
As a Business owner who employs 30 people, I have resigned myself to the fact that Barack Obama will be our next President, and that my Taxes and Fees will go up in a BIG way.
To compensate for these increases, I figure that our customers will have to see an increase in my fees of about 8%. I will also have to lay off six of my employees. This really bothered me as I believe we are family here and didn't know how to choose who will have to go. So, this is what I did.
I strolled thru the parking lot and found eight Obama bumper stickers on my employees cars. I have decided these folks will be the first to be laid off.
I can't think of more fair way to approach this problem. If you have a better idea, let me know.
I am sending this letter to all business owners that I know.
Sincerely
Ward
Utopia Is Coming. Don't Worry, Be Happy!
Life is just gonna be swell:
Barry will bring us heaven, right here on earth!
Thanks again Instapundit
Barry will bring us heaven, right here on earth!
Thanks again Instapundit
30 October 2008
But Wait, There's More!
Did you watch Barry's infomercial?
Wouldn't it have been nice if he had held a 30 minute news conference instead?
Maybe then we'd know what we need to know about the man.
Wouldn't it have been nice if he had held a 30 minute news conference instead?
Maybe then we'd know what we need to know about the man.
Burning Questions-
We just returned from another enjoyable weekend spent with old H.S. classmates.
Saturday night, clear and chilly, was comfortably spent around a wonderful bonfire.
I made a comment that was as much a question as statement of fact, then promised myself I'd find the answer:
Wood doesn't burn.
Agree or disagree?
Look it up.
And another burning question-
I spend a great deal of time with Mr. Lycoming's product purring along behind me.
That purring is the result of some pretty violent stuff going on in that reciprocal, internal combustion engine.
Most of us have at least an idea of how that engine works, but...
When the spark plugs spark and ignite the fuel/air mixture, is that an explosion?
That fire obviously has to progress mighty quickly.
Your answer?
Saturday night, clear and chilly, was comfortably spent around a wonderful bonfire.
I made a comment that was as much a question as statement of fact, then promised myself I'd find the answer:
Wood doesn't burn.
Agree or disagree?
Look it up.
And another burning question-
I spend a great deal of time with Mr. Lycoming's product purring along behind me.
That purring is the result of some pretty violent stuff going on in that reciprocal, internal combustion engine.
Most of us have at least an idea of how that engine works, but...
When the spark plugs spark and ignite the fuel/air mixture, is that an explosion?
That fire obviously has to progress mighty quickly.
Your answer?
29 October 2008
Half And Half
Ha.
From a comment to a post at Epi's blog-
Him: "You know, he's half black and half white. Is it the black part you don't like or the white part?"
Me: "It's not the black or the white, it's the red."
My feelings exactly.
From a comment to a post at Epi's blog-
Him: "You know, he's half black and half white. Is it the black part you don't like or the white part?"
Me: "It's not the black or the white, it's the red."
My feelings exactly.
The "Talented Tenth"
...Been a while since I checked on Rattler Gator.
That's a mistake.
He always gives me hope for change.
That's a mistake.
He always gives me hope for change.
Pravda, Izvestia, et al...
If you are not afraid of this election, you must be clueless:
Read John's post,
Then read this satire(?)
My comment at John's blog:
"The only difference between us and the old Soviet Union now is that the government is not controlling the release of information...
liberal media outlets are.
Government control of information will start 4 November."
I asked before and I'll ask again-
Why would any Jew vote for this guy?
Now add to that-
Why would anyone?
Read John's post,
Then read this satire(?)
My comment at John's blog:
"The only difference between us and the old Soviet Union now is that the government is not controlling the release of information...
liberal media outlets are.
Government control of information will start 4 November."
I asked before and I'll ask again-
Why would any Jew vote for this guy?
Now add to that-
Why would anyone?
28 October 2008
Three Generations, From "Greatest" To "Gimme".
My Dad was a World War Two Veteran.
Awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star, at our dinner table he was a living history lesson.
Looking around at my contemporaries I find most of them also had live, talking examples of what it takes to preserve the freedoms granted to us in the Constitution sharing their homes.
Everyone calls them "The Greatest Generation".
Why?
When needed, they didn't shirk...
They answered the call.
The next generation, my generation, was different.
Many were like me...
Raised by a brave, unselfish man, there was no question what I had to do when I was called.
Running to Canada was out of the question.
Getting married to avoid duty was out of the question.
I served.
But many, for whatever reason, did not. I've heard all the explanations...
"Illegal", "Immoral", "Unnecessary".
If you agree with that line of thought, come talk to some of my Vietnamese friends.
Prepare to be embarrassed, or worse.
Now comes the "Gimme" generation.
Some of them come here and comment.
Intelligent and quite able to speak their minds, they have all the answers to life's problems because they were raised in an environment where self-esteem was all-important.
Many have never felt the sting of switch or belt against their buttocks as children...
That would hurt their egos. That would embarrass them.
Better to use logic with them, right?
Rationalize with a precocious 7 year old.
But what has that attitude gotten us?
Selfish, self-centered kids, raised in a poor teaching environment, they have almost no ability to discern what is best in the long-term for themselves, for their children.
They are young enough to have never seen the abject failure that Socialism has brought in EVERY country that has tried it.
(One misguided soul responded that Socialism was successful in Sweden.
She had no idea of the social unrest there, and also didn't know Sweden is slowly moving towards Capitalism to resolve problems. They're also considering joining NATO because they cannot afford to defend themselves against aggressors.)
So here we are, facing an important election with large numbers of these "me!" generation kids fainting to the sounds of the most unqualified, misguided man to ever run for the office of President of the United States.
No amount of logic seems to make a dent...
"Don't confuse me, I already have my mind made up."
In spite of millions and millions being spent... lots of talk with nothing being said... our only hope is that many of these kids have actually turned out pretty well... (take a look at our all-volunteer military.)
The poll numbers ARE tightening.
Is the "in the tank" big media in for a huge surprise?
Won't surprise me.
Awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star, at our dinner table he was a living history lesson.
Looking around at my contemporaries I find most of them also had live, talking examples of what it takes to preserve the freedoms granted to us in the Constitution sharing their homes.
Everyone calls them "The Greatest Generation".
Why?
When needed, they didn't shirk...
They answered the call.
The next generation, my generation, was different.
Many were like me...
Raised by a brave, unselfish man, there was no question what I had to do when I was called.
Running to Canada was out of the question.
Getting married to avoid duty was out of the question.
I served.
But many, for whatever reason, did not. I've heard all the explanations...
"Illegal", "Immoral", "Unnecessary".
If you agree with that line of thought, come talk to some of my Vietnamese friends.
Prepare to be embarrassed, or worse.
Now comes the "Gimme" generation.
Some of them come here and comment.
Intelligent and quite able to speak their minds, they have all the answers to life's problems because they were raised in an environment where self-esteem was all-important.
Many have never felt the sting of switch or belt against their buttocks as children...
That would hurt their egos. That would embarrass them.
Better to use logic with them, right?
Rationalize with a precocious 7 year old.
But what has that attitude gotten us?
Selfish, self-centered kids, raised in a poor teaching environment, they have almost no ability to discern what is best in the long-term for themselves, for their children.
They are young enough to have never seen the abject failure that Socialism has brought in EVERY country that has tried it.
(One misguided soul responded that Socialism was successful in Sweden.
She had no idea of the social unrest there, and also didn't know Sweden is slowly moving towards Capitalism to resolve problems. They're also considering joining NATO because they cannot afford to defend themselves against aggressors.)
So here we are, facing an important election with large numbers of these "me!" generation kids fainting to the sounds of the most unqualified, misguided man to ever run for the office of President of the United States.
No amount of logic seems to make a dent...
"Don't confuse me, I already have my mind made up."
In spite of millions and millions being spent... lots of talk with nothing being said... our only hope is that many of these kids have actually turned out pretty well... (take a look at our all-volunteer military.)
The poll numbers ARE tightening.
Is the "in the tank" big media in for a huge surprise?
Won't surprise me.
27 October 2008
Honoring Our Heroes-
Vote as they will vote.
(The comments are interesting.)
UPDATE:
Read this, and then the comments to the article.
(And my sense is that this is EXACTLY how the election will play out!
(The comments are interesting.)
UPDATE:
Read this, and then the comments to the article.
(And my sense is that this is EXACTLY how the election will play out!
26 October 2008
25 October 2008
Juno
I just finished watching Juno.
What a pleasant surprise.
Laughed.
Cried.
There are certain moments in movies when an actor can knock me out...
No lines to speak, the acting is all done with facial expression and body language.
In "Tootsie" Charles Durning amazed me with his expression in the bar scene when he comes to the realization that Tootsie is a man.
Ellen Page has a solo scene with no lines where you know she has made an important decision, and the young actress pulls it off.
Bravo Ellen!
Casting is great. Everyone is believable. I liked Jason Bateman, Jennifer Garner was excellent. Michael Cera, an actor I had never seen before, does a wonderful, understated job as Juno's best friend/paramour.
J.K. Simmons, playing Juno's Dad, steals every scene he's in.
Rent it.
I liked it enough that I will again, later.
What a pleasant surprise.
Laughed.
Cried.
There are certain moments in movies when an actor can knock me out...
No lines to speak, the acting is all done with facial expression and body language.
In "Tootsie" Charles Durning amazed me with his expression in the bar scene when he comes to the realization that Tootsie is a man.
Ellen Page has a solo scene with no lines where you know she has made an important decision, and the young actress pulls it off.
Bravo Ellen!
Casting is great. Everyone is believable. I liked Jason Bateman, Jennifer Garner was excellent. Michael Cera, an actor I had never seen before, does a wonderful, understated job as Juno's best friend/paramour.
J.K. Simmons, playing Juno's Dad, steals every scene he's in.
Rent it.
I liked it enough that I will again, later.
24 October 2008
VooDoo Economics
Lots of folks spouting Comrade Obama's line...
"Tax the rich. Spread that income around."
And you know what, on the surface that doesn't sound so bad...
Until you start using your brain a little.
I've blogged before about basic Sociology and Psychology.
No one refuted my comments then, they just ignored them and repeated the Socialist Party line...
"Stick it to the rich guy. He got that money through greed anyway."
As I see it, there are three problems with that thinking:
1. You are still rewarding poor behavior, and therefore will get more of it.
2. Obama's plan to soak the rich by increasing Capital Gains taxes, while eliciting a "go get those fat cats, Tiger", from the low-IQ crowd, will work negatively in another arena he hopes to improve- Job creation.
If I'm a "fat cat" and you increase my cost of doing business, I'm either gonna slash my costs, maybe by laying off employees, or pass those costs off to taxpayers and consumers as an expense-
the cost of doing business. Or alternatively I'll move my production facility offshore to avoid those costs altogether. Fat Cat won't pay them at all...
The consumer, and frequently the POOR consumer, will suffer most.
3. And back to Capital Gains tax increases-
Think this will only hurt the upper 5%?
Think because you aren't as rich as "Joe the Plumber" you don't pay Captital Gains taxes?
WRONG AGAIN BUNKY!
You own stocks, right?
Like me, you have stock in BIG OL' TERRIBLE OIL, right?
No?
Are you sure?
Got an IRA?
Got a 401k or 403b or any other retirement plan?
Own a mutual fund?
If you answered yes to any of those questions, you probably own oil stocks.
You also pay Capital Gains taxes, either personally or as an expense of the plan.
Barack Obama wants to give you a tax increase.
Where's he coming up with this "95% won't pay more in taxes" lie?
Why aren't the masses catching on to the impossibility of what he's promising?
"Tax the rich. Spread that income around."
And you know what, on the surface that doesn't sound so bad...
Until you start using your brain a little.
I've blogged before about basic Sociology and Psychology.
No one refuted my comments then, they just ignored them and repeated the Socialist Party line...
"Stick it to the rich guy. He got that money through greed anyway."
As I see it, there are three problems with that thinking:
1. You are still rewarding poor behavior, and therefore will get more of it.
2. Obama's plan to soak the rich by increasing Capital Gains taxes, while eliciting a "go get those fat cats, Tiger", from the low-IQ crowd, will work negatively in another arena he hopes to improve- Job creation.
If I'm a "fat cat" and you increase my cost of doing business, I'm either gonna slash my costs, maybe by laying off employees, or pass those costs off to taxpayers and consumers as an expense-
the cost of doing business. Or alternatively I'll move my production facility offshore to avoid those costs altogether. Fat Cat won't pay them at all...
The consumer, and frequently the POOR consumer, will suffer most.
3. And back to Capital Gains tax increases-
Think this will only hurt the upper 5%?
Think because you aren't as rich as "Joe the Plumber" you don't pay Captital Gains taxes?
WRONG AGAIN BUNKY!
You own stocks, right?
Like me, you have stock in BIG OL' TERRIBLE OIL, right?
No?
Are you sure?
Got an IRA?
Got a 401k or 403b or any other retirement plan?
Own a mutual fund?
If you answered yes to any of those questions, you probably own oil stocks.
You also pay Capital Gains taxes, either personally or as an expense of the plan.
Barack Obama wants to give you a tax increase.
Where's he coming up with this "95% won't pay more in taxes" lie?
Why aren't the masses catching on to the impossibility of what he's promising?
How's Your 401K/IRA Doin'?
"Blue Canoes" and Their Progeny
When I started flying for the ARMY we were forced to endure an hours' simulator time a week.
It was a mostly a waste of time.
We called them "Blue Canoes".
Modified WWII "Link" trainers, they were single pilot, the exterior painted royal blue, an almost coffin shaped box. I suppose to make us feel less ridiculous being encased in the thing, they had actually attached a set of stubby yellow wings to the "fuselage".
They started life as fixed wind simulators and had been modified with a collective on the left of the seat for power control, rather than a panel-mounted throttle. They could rotate freely around their yaw axis... their only (terrible) attempt at "motion freedom".
In their defense, they were a good IFR procedures trainer. But putting aviators in a cardboard box and having them respond with the proper language to radio calls over a headset would have been nearly as effective and a whole lot cheaper than the blue canoes.
Shortly after I got home from Viet Nam the ARMY bought and started training in full-motion simulators. What a change! The "box" you climbed into was the size of a small van.
Pilot AND Copilot... the view surrounding you was EXACTLY that of being in a Huey cockpit. The windshield was opaque, simulating actual IFR conditions. When flight simulation started, the box was lifted into the air via a 3-axis hydraulic system. Moving the controls resulted in VERY realistic movement of the hydraulics...
(Once, given a complete loss of tail rotor and gearbox on short final by the operator as a joke, I crashed hard enough to pop both doors of the simulator open!)
These simulators were expensive. As I recall, an operator actually rode herd on a pod of four of them at a time, so operating them also included her/his paycheck.
Still, they were less expensive than actually going out and lighting the fire in a Huey, and a pilot could be given a complete loss of tail rotor and gearbox on short final without fear of loss of aircraft and two pilots. They were worth the cost.
I have NO experience with simulators today, but like you, I've seen videos of them.
Full motion, complete with video surrounding your field of view... they are a quantum leap improvement over the full-motion simulator that was such an improvement over the "blue canoe".
Wonderful.
I think I have heard our military aviators now spend almost half their time in these simulators.
I'm sure aviators don't hate them the way we hated the canoe. It's time well spent, and cost effective too.
Darren or anyone else familiar with the new flight simulators...
Educate us please.
23 October 2008
For FlightFire-
In comments to a post below, FlightFire stated that voter registration shenanigans weren't a problem so long as the citizen only voted in one location.
This article should be a "gentle education".
No charge, FF.
You're welcome.
UPDATE:
More.
Think "Voter Fraud" WILL NOT be an issue on 5 November?
This article should be a "gentle education".
No charge, FF.
You're welcome.
UPDATE:
More.
Think "Voter Fraud" WILL NOT be an issue on 5 November?
The Coming Ice Age
"...a funny thing is happening to global temperatures -- they're going down, not up."
When it is painfully obvious they're wrong, will the "Global Warming" fanatics have the stones to admit it?
UPDATE:
I know, I know, it's a local situation, not global.
But if reading the first sentence of this article doesn't crack you up, you have no sense of humor!
When it is painfully obvious they're wrong, will the "Global Warming" fanatics have the stones to admit it?
UPDATE:
I know, I know, it's a local situation, not global.
But if reading the first sentence of this article doesn't crack you up, you have no sense of humor!
22 October 2008
21 October 2008
Three Cups... "C Cup" To "B Cup"?
I LOVE Boobs!
Size, shape, color... immaterial.
Boobs are wonderful... the initial nurturers.
But they can be such a health concern for women.
Like the title of my post, you may have been titillated to read because of boob size.
But I also found this Coffee/Cancer study interesting.
UPDATE:
Do you like BIG BOOBS?
Size, shape, color... immaterial.
Boobs are wonderful... the initial nurturers.
But they can be such a health concern for women.
Like the title of my post, you may have been titillated to read because of boob size.
But I also found this Coffee/Cancer study interesting.
UPDATE:
Do you like BIG BOOBS?
20 October 2008
Chief Executive Obama!
Yeah, Obama has Executive experience.
And how'd he do at it?
He was a total failure!
Hey Gang!
Let's make this guy the most important leader in the world!
And how'd he do at it?
He was a total failure!
Hey Gang!
Let's make this guy the most important leader in the world!
4 Dead In Illinois
2008 has been a terrible year for Helicopter Ambulances. I think I read there have been 9 fatal accidents involving EMS helicopters this year. There have also been several serious accidents that have not resulted in fatalities.
The latest happened in Aurora, Illinois.
It was a Bell 222, an aircraft I consider to be the most beautiful rotorcraft flying. Some of you may recognize the "triple deuce" as the aircraft used in the TV series "Airwolf".
We still don't know the "whys".
What we do know is that it was nighttime, the aircraft was on its way to Children's Hospital of Chicago with Pilot, Nurse, Paramedic, and the patient, a 13 month old little girl on board. Over Aurora they ran into the support cable for a tall antenna and crashed, killing all aboard.
News reports and comments from EMS bloggers bring many questions to mind:
1. Why did this pilot not see this obstruction? There are unconfirmed reports the tower did not have the required lighting.
2. This tower was 700+ feet tall. Why was he cruising at an altitude low enough to strike this tower, even if it was unlit?
3. (At my age I hate to approach this question.) This pilot was 69 years of age. Was his physical condition a factor in this accident?
4. This baby was a seizure patient. Was it medically necessary to fly her?
A radar track for the aircraft shows no anomalies, so there are no indications of mechanical failure. More questions will no doubt be asked as the investigation of this accident unfolds. But as an industry insider I am sure of one thing...
We fly far too many patients that could, and should be transported by ground.
I sincerely hope this accident is the impetus for discussion as to how we can safely and more efficiently use EMS helicopters.
More details than you could ever want to know on the subject here.
The latest happened in Aurora, Illinois.
It was a Bell 222, an aircraft I consider to be the most beautiful rotorcraft flying. Some of you may recognize the "triple deuce" as the aircraft used in the TV series "Airwolf".
We still don't know the "whys".
What we do know is that it was nighttime, the aircraft was on its way to Children's Hospital of Chicago with Pilot, Nurse, Paramedic, and the patient, a 13 month old little girl on board. Over Aurora they ran into the support cable for a tall antenna and crashed, killing all aboard.
News reports and comments from EMS bloggers bring many questions to mind:
1. Why did this pilot not see this obstruction? There are unconfirmed reports the tower did not have the required lighting.
2. This tower was 700+ feet tall. Why was he cruising at an altitude low enough to strike this tower, even if it was unlit?
3. (At my age I hate to approach this question.) This pilot was 69 years of age. Was his physical condition a factor in this accident?
4. This baby was a seizure patient. Was it medically necessary to fly her?
A radar track for the aircraft shows no anomalies, so there are no indications of mechanical failure. More questions will no doubt be asked as the investigation of this accident unfolds. But as an industry insider I am sure of one thing...
We fly far too many patients that could, and should be transported by ground.
I sincerely hope this accident is the impetus for discussion as to how we can safely and more efficiently use EMS helicopters.
More details than you could ever want to know on the subject here.
19 October 2008
Nurse William's Excellent Adventure
Road trip in a fast car, through the eyes of an experienced Trauma Nurse.
Short, interesting installments.
Like the sound of it?
If you have a little time, I think it's worth your while:
Read first.
Part One.
Part Two.
Part Three.
Part Four.
Leave him a note to let him know what ya think, and tell him Greybeard sent ya.
Short, interesting installments.
Like the sound of it?
If you have a little time, I think it's worth your while:
Read first.
Part One.
Part Two.
Part Three.
Part Four.
Leave him a note to let him know what ya think, and tell him Greybeard sent ya.
17 October 2008
Kill The American Dream?
I have a full-time job.
At that job I work 42 hours per week.
I own a personal business.
It's hard to put a finger on how many hours I devote there.
Some weeks it's a lot. Some weeks, depending on weather and other factors, I do almost nothing. Over a year I probably average 20 hours a week trying to keep this business in the black.
I work part-time as a flight instructor.
Again, this work is spotty, but looking back over the last year I estimate I average another 20 hours per week in flight and ground instructing.
I own a rental property...
There's another few hours per week devoted to keeping the bills paid and organizing the inevitable required tax information.
On top of all this, until recently I've found time to be on a couple Boards-of-Directors... presiding over one of them for a year.
Weekends?
Holidays?
You're kidding, right?!!
Don't get me wrong... I'm working over 80 hours per week not because I'm forced to, but because I want to. I enjoy the work.
I enjoy the people I associate with. I like the things I can afford because of the income my work brings me. It gives me pleasure to know that several others make a little extra cash because of my efforts.
I think I'm exactly like "Joe the Plumber"...
The guy Obama wants to tax so that he can "spread the wealth around" to others that aren't willing to work 80+ hours per week.
Want to "change" the world?
Do like the Soviet Union and so many other Socialist governments from the past have done...
Make it unpalatable for me and others like me to pursue this American Dream.
HOPE will go out the window, but you'll certainly see CHANGE.
Be very careful what you wish for.
At that job I work 42 hours per week.
I own a personal business.
It's hard to put a finger on how many hours I devote there.
Some weeks it's a lot. Some weeks, depending on weather and other factors, I do almost nothing. Over a year I probably average 20 hours a week trying to keep this business in the black.
I work part-time as a flight instructor.
Again, this work is spotty, but looking back over the last year I estimate I average another 20 hours per week in flight and ground instructing.
I own a rental property...
There's another few hours per week devoted to keeping the bills paid and organizing the inevitable required tax information.
On top of all this, until recently I've found time to be on a couple Boards-of-Directors... presiding over one of them for a year.
Weekends?
Holidays?
You're kidding, right?!!
Don't get me wrong... I'm working over 80 hours per week not because I'm forced to, but because I want to. I enjoy the work.
I enjoy the people I associate with. I like the things I can afford because of the income my work brings me. It gives me pleasure to know that several others make a little extra cash because of my efforts.
I think I'm exactly like "Joe the Plumber"...
The guy Obama wants to tax so that he can "spread the wealth around" to others that aren't willing to work 80+ hours per week.
Want to "change" the world?
Do like the Soviet Union and so many other Socialist governments from the past have done...
Make it unpalatable for me and others like me to pursue this American Dream.
HOPE will go out the window, but you'll certainly see CHANGE.
Be very careful what you wish for.
15 October 2008
Want Hope?
... Then DON'T listen to this audio:
Hat tip Fausta's Blog
UPDATE-
Upon hearing the audio my paramedic asks, "How many times have these folks registered to vote?"
Hat tip Fausta's Blog
UPDATE-
Upon hearing the audio my paramedic asks, "How many times have these folks registered to vote?"
Change We Need?
"The most important change would occur in the Middle East, where 'decades of putting Israel's interests first' would end."
Jesse (Hymietown) Jackson on the Obama Presidency.
Please...
Preferably in short sentences with small words, explain why any Jew would vote for this man.
Jesse (Hymietown) Jackson on the Obama Presidency.
Please...
Preferably in short sentences with small words, explain why any Jew would vote for this man.
Conscription
One of the things in the news today is Obama's statement that if we return to the draft to fill our military ranks, we should also conscript females.
McCain disagrees.
I agree with Obama... sorta.
I have always felt we should adopt a system similar to the Israelis'...
Everyone serves.
Now I'll admit I'm no expert on the Israeli system, other than the fact that men and women serve. I believe they still exclude women from certain combat positions. But by going through basic training, women are trained in infantry tactics, and are trained for and would be expected to jump into a foxhole with a rifle next to a man should their position be overrun.
For me, "equal rights" has always been the crux of the matter. When I was in Viet Nam, one of the first female helicopter pilots in the U.S. ARMY came to our battalion. She wore the same rank on her collar as me. Her paycheck had the same figure behind the dollar sign as mine. But she COULD NOT perform my job...
Restricted by regulation, she couldn't be exposed to combat.
Equal pay for equal work/responsibility? Hardly. So it was hard to swallow...
But it wasn't her fault.
Discussion about women filling combat positions goes 'way above my pay grade. But I have always wondered...
Why not draft EVERYONE?
Upon completion of High School or College, why not require two years military service from all citizens... men, women, homosexuals, able-bodied and wheelchair-bound.
Two years of service to the country would emphasize and illustrate many things. Two that quickly come to mind are:
It would instill the idea that there are more important things in life than "self".
Testing for aptitude, training someone for a job, then giving them nearly two years experience in that skill would give all conscripts a civilian-marketable job history. There are plenty of rear-area jobs that could be, (and in some cases are), filled by wheelchair-bound civilians already.
So to John McCain-
I would like for you to rethink your attitude toward this Obama idea and take it one step further.
So long as it is fair... so long as EVERYONE is expected to serve... a universal draft might not be such a bad idea.
Consider it.
McCain disagrees.
I agree with Obama... sorta.
I have always felt we should adopt a system similar to the Israelis'...
Everyone serves.
Now I'll admit I'm no expert on the Israeli system, other than the fact that men and women serve. I believe they still exclude women from certain combat positions. But by going through basic training, women are trained in infantry tactics, and are trained for and would be expected to jump into a foxhole with a rifle next to a man should their position be overrun.
For me, "equal rights" has always been the crux of the matter. When I was in Viet Nam, one of the first female helicopter pilots in the U.S. ARMY came to our battalion. She wore the same rank on her collar as me. Her paycheck had the same figure behind the dollar sign as mine. But she COULD NOT perform my job...
Restricted by regulation, she couldn't be exposed to combat.
Equal pay for equal work/responsibility? Hardly. So it was hard to swallow...
But it wasn't her fault.
Discussion about women filling combat positions goes 'way above my pay grade. But I have always wondered...
Why not draft EVERYONE?
Upon completion of High School or College, why not require two years military service from all citizens... men, women, homosexuals, able-bodied and wheelchair-bound.
Two years of service to the country would emphasize and illustrate many things. Two that quickly come to mind are:
It would instill the idea that there are more important things in life than "self".
Testing for aptitude, training someone for a job, then giving them nearly two years experience in that skill would give all conscripts a civilian-marketable job history. There are plenty of rear-area jobs that could be, (and in some cases are), filled by wheelchair-bound civilians already.
So to John McCain-
I would like for you to rethink your attitude toward this Obama idea and take it one step further.
So long as it is fair... so long as EVERYONE is expected to serve... a universal draft might not be such a bad idea.
Consider it.
14 October 2008
Personal Dynamics
We hear the car door slam.
Ten seconds... that's what it takes for her to gather up the things she'll use during her shift, walk to, then open the front door.
And the moment she crosses the threshold, we ALL know what sort of day we'll have.
We hope she's smiling. All too often she's not.
She has problems in her life. Her husband has health problems that required his early retirement from work. We hear her talking on the phone with her teenage daughter, and to say there is 'tension' in that relationship would be kind.
I don't know husband or daughter well, but I have worked with this woman a long, long time, and I know her moods.
I'm glad I only WORK with her.
She's a damned fine nurse.
If I regained consciousness in the rear of the helicopter looking squarely at her face, I'd know that I was getting first-class medical care.
But when I drive to work and see her car in the parking lot, I know my shift will be difficult.
Sure, all of us work with a few folks like this. But this job attracts people with big egos... it's almost a requirement to survive here. Add big egos to difficult personal relationships and you have a recipe for interesting times. Our company has sponsored several classes on making interpersonal relationships better... I think that's commendable, but I think it has little or no long-term effect on behavior. At your core, you're either a happy person or you're not.
In this gal's case, you can see it in her face when she steps through that door.
I feel bad for the rest of us.
I feel worse for her.
Ten seconds... that's what it takes for her to gather up the things she'll use during her shift, walk to, then open the front door.
And the moment she crosses the threshold, we ALL know what sort of day we'll have.
We hope she's smiling. All too often she's not.
She has problems in her life. Her husband has health problems that required his early retirement from work. We hear her talking on the phone with her teenage daughter, and to say there is 'tension' in that relationship would be kind.
I don't know husband or daughter well, but I have worked with this woman a long, long time, and I know her moods.
I'm glad I only WORK with her.
She's a damned fine nurse.
If I regained consciousness in the rear of the helicopter looking squarely at her face, I'd know that I was getting first-class medical care.
But when I drive to work and see her car in the parking lot, I know my shift will be difficult.
Sure, all of us work with a few folks like this. But this job attracts people with big egos... it's almost a requirement to survive here. Add big egos to difficult personal relationships and you have a recipe for interesting times. Our company has sponsored several classes on making interpersonal relationships better... I think that's commendable, but I think it has little or no long-term effect on behavior. At your core, you're either a happy person or you're not.
In this gal's case, you can see it in her face when she steps through that door.
I feel bad for the rest of us.
I feel worse for her.
11 October 2008
Silence
The most serious fuel crisis of my life...The annual inflation rate at nearly 20%...
Mortgage rates so high, no one could contemplate buying a home...
Hostages being held in Iran, and a failed military rescue attempt...
U.S. morale so low, the bottom looked like up!
You sir, are an idiot, and would do well to shut your pie hole.
10 October 2008
From The Ground Up!
Well, it's a mess.
We can all agree on that, certainly. What we'll argue about is how we got here...
And that will break on this John Edward's "Two Americas" class warfare argument.
Greedy fat cats caused the problem, right?
Yeah, I can see that Senator Chris Dodd and Congressman Barney Frank contributed greatly. As a matter of fact I think they both ought to be in jail. Problem is, these "fat cats" will possibly be part of the democrat majority in Congress starting next January.
Think this single-digit popularity Congress is horrible? Just wait until we have a democrat President in place to go along with their every whim. And an even worse nightmare? The next Senate may have enough democrats to be filibuster proof... republicans may be totally impotent!
On more than one occasion I've heard Obama proclaim he's gonna "grow the economy from the ground up!"
(The crowd goes wild with applause, cheering!)
Huh?
How's that work?
Humor me now, 'cause I'm gettin' old and my synapses don't work the way they use'ta:
You and me, we just started working at McDonald's because we just got out of High School or we lost our jobs as editors at the New York Times. While I flip burgers and you drop the fries in the trans-fat-free oil, we get to talking about Obama and his "ground up" theory.
You say, "I know! Let's make electric cars!"
What a great idea! With an energy efficient electric car we could save a ton of money driving to McDonald's to work! There have to be MILLIONS of others like us... all needing an energy efficient way to get to our minimum-wage jobs.
So we get together with our other McDonald's employees... to start this venture we'll certainly need a good business plan, right?
We're gonna help "The Big O." grow the economy from the ground up!
Help a soon-to-be senior citizen, Obama supporters...
Where's this scenario go from here?
We can all agree on that, certainly. What we'll argue about is how we got here...
And that will break on this John Edward's "Two Americas" class warfare argument.
Greedy fat cats caused the problem, right?
Yeah, I can see that Senator Chris Dodd and Congressman Barney Frank contributed greatly. As a matter of fact I think they both ought to be in jail. Problem is, these "fat cats" will possibly be part of the democrat majority in Congress starting next January.
Think this single-digit popularity Congress is horrible? Just wait until we have a democrat President in place to go along with their every whim. And an even worse nightmare? The next Senate may have enough democrats to be filibuster proof... republicans may be totally impotent!
On more than one occasion I've heard Obama proclaim he's gonna "grow the economy from the ground up!"
(The crowd goes wild with applause, cheering!)
Huh?
How's that work?
Humor me now, 'cause I'm gettin' old and my synapses don't work the way they use'ta:
You and me, we just started working at McDonald's because we just got out of High School or we lost our jobs as editors at the New York Times. While I flip burgers and you drop the fries in the trans-fat-free oil, we get to talking about Obama and his "ground up" theory.
You say, "I know! Let's make electric cars!"
What a great idea! With an energy efficient electric car we could save a ton of money driving to McDonald's to work! There have to be MILLIONS of others like us... all needing an energy efficient way to get to our minimum-wage jobs.
So we get together with our other McDonald's employees... to start this venture we'll certainly need a good business plan, right?
We're gonna help "The Big O." grow the economy from the ground up!
Help a soon-to-be senior citizen, Obama supporters...
Where's this scenario go from here?
09 October 2008
Stolen Elections
Think there'll be big trouble after this election?
Count on it!
(Once again suggested by Instapundit.)
Updated:
ACORN stands for Association of Community Organizers for Reform Now.
Community Organizers?
Let's see... where have I heard that term before?
Count on it!
(Once again suggested by Instapundit.)
Updated:
ACORN stands for Association of Community Organizers for Reform Now.
Community Organizers?
Let's see... where have I heard that term before?
08 October 2008
Do Something, Even If It's Wrong.
I came home from work and went right to the bathroom to get rid of what remained of the two cups of coffee I had earlier. She followed me. When I noticed the wallpaper had been changed she asked, "What d'ya think?"
I didn't like the change, and told her so.
Of course she was disappointed...
She had done a great job, and assumed I'd be pleased.
But we both liked the wallpaper she had covered. It had been on that bathroom wall since we moved into this house, and she grew tired of it. I still liked the old paper.
She did too. But it had been up there a while, so on a whim she decided to change it. We left the "changed" paper there, and I still don't like it as much as the previous wall covering.
You've gotta be careful of change.
It's not always a good thing.
I didn't like the change, and told her so.
Of course she was disappointed...
She had done a great job, and assumed I'd be pleased.
But we both liked the wallpaper she had covered. It had been on that bathroom wall since we moved into this house, and she grew tired of it. I still liked the old paper.
She did too. But it had been up there a while, so on a whim she decided to change it. We left the "changed" paper there, and I still don't like it as much as the previous wall covering.
You've gotta be careful of change.
It's not always a good thing.
07 October 2008
06 October 2008
Like An Old Pair of Slippers
Regular readers know it.
Newcomers need to know I probably spend more time behind a cyclic than behind a steering wheel.
Like you, I'm comfortable in a car. But I'm equally comfortable in the helicopter.
Taken for granted, when the unexpected happens, either can kill. When the red warning lights come on, it's scarier when you are 1,000 feet above the ground going 150 miles per hour. Resolving the problem will take more than just pulling over to the berm.
I've been in Destin for 9 days.
Actually, I was last in the helicopter more than two weeks ago.
That's a long time to be out of the cockpit of a complex aircraft.
Tonight, when I return to work, I'll have to get reacquainted with my flying machine.
I'll adjust my seat and anti-torque pedals, then I'll climb in and do a mental "spool-up"...
I'll simply soak it all in...
A twin-engined aircraft has lots of dials, switches, levers, instruments, and circuit breakers. When the fertilizer hits the fan, I need to be able to react with the same reflexes you'd have if you see a soccer ball bounce into the street while driving your car.
It's been two weeks.
Where is that switch to arm the fire suppression system?
It'll take a few minutes.
My life, my crew's life, and, if on board, the life of my patient depend on my instant reflexes.
It's worth a few minutes.
Newcomers need to know I probably spend more time behind a cyclic than behind a steering wheel.
Like you, I'm comfortable in a car. But I'm equally comfortable in the helicopter.
Taken for granted, when the unexpected happens, either can kill. When the red warning lights come on, it's scarier when you are 1,000 feet above the ground going 150 miles per hour. Resolving the problem will take more than just pulling over to the berm.
I've been in Destin for 9 days.
Actually, I was last in the helicopter more than two weeks ago.
That's a long time to be out of the cockpit of a complex aircraft.
Tonight, when I return to work, I'll have to get reacquainted with my flying machine.
I'll adjust my seat and anti-torque pedals, then I'll climb in and do a mental "spool-up"...
I'll simply soak it all in...
A twin-engined aircraft has lots of dials, switches, levers, instruments, and circuit breakers. When the fertilizer hits the fan, I need to be able to react with the same reflexes you'd have if you see a soccer ball bounce into the street while driving your car.
It's been two weeks.
Where is that switch to arm the fire suppression system?
It'll take a few minutes.
My life, my crew's life, and, if on board, the life of my patient depend on my instant reflexes.
It's worth a few minutes.
05 October 2008
OTD@Destin, October 2008
Out The Door.
We've been here 9 Days. As always, time passed too quickly.
We've gained a few pounds and a lotta memories.
Have you ever been here?
I recommend it.
We're looking forward to our next trip down already.
We've been here 9 Days. As always, time passed too quickly.
We've gained a few pounds and a lotta memories.
Have you ever been here?
I recommend it.
We're looking forward to our next trip down already.
03 October 2008
".... In My Adult Life...."
She said, "For the first time in my adult life...." and finished that sentence with words that shocked me. Later in the week she repeated the statement, and public reaction was such that the democrat party wisely took Michelle out of public view for a while to allow things to cool down.
Now let me share something with you:
I'll start my sentence the same way but finish it differently...
For the first time in my adult life I'm truly afraid of what will happen when the results of this election are tabulated. I fear it won't be pretty, no matter the outcome.
It may be disastrous.
Obama's friends from ACORN are working in Ohio to lock-in the vote for him there.
(If you don't know his history with this organization, you need to google it and him and educate yourself.)
Democrat operatives around the St. Louis area are denying constituents their right to freedom of speech in order to insure nothing bad is said about their candidate.
This whole thing stinks to high heaven.
So, why am I afraid?
In the face of all this vote corruption, does my vote mean anything?
How will I feel when all the votes are counted?
I'm fearful that I, and millions of others like me, will feel this election has been stolen by ACORN, democrat brown-shirts, and a national press that, like CBS in the previous election, has become nothing more than a mouthpiece for democrat party talking points. (You are no doubt aware that the moderator of tonight's "debate" has written a book praising the messiah, to be released inauguration day, right?)
Many have made the accusation (incorrectly) that the 2000 election was stolen.
The election of 2008 truly could be.
How will conservatives react if they feel their votes were nullified?
"Progressives", remember this:
We conservatives tend to cling to our Bibles and guns.
Most of us have several of both.
We already know we cannot trust our media. We're beginning to learn we can no longer trust our government.
How badly do you want to win? How far down this path do you truly want to go?
Bible and guns...
Conservatives have both and know how to use them. We'll rely on the Bible, no matter what. It's my fervent hope we won't feel compelled to use the guns.
Now let me share something with you:
I'll start my sentence the same way but finish it differently...
For the first time in my adult life I'm truly afraid of what will happen when the results of this election are tabulated. I fear it won't be pretty, no matter the outcome.
It may be disastrous.
Obama's friends from ACORN are working in Ohio to lock-in the vote for him there.
(If you don't know his history with this organization, you need to google it and him and educate yourself.)
Democrat operatives around the St. Louis area are denying constituents their right to freedom of speech in order to insure nothing bad is said about their candidate.
This whole thing stinks to high heaven.
So, why am I afraid?
In the face of all this vote corruption, does my vote mean anything?
How will I feel when all the votes are counted?
I'm fearful that I, and millions of others like me, will feel this election has been stolen by ACORN, democrat brown-shirts, and a national press that, like CBS in the previous election, has become nothing more than a mouthpiece for democrat party talking points. (You are no doubt aware that the moderator of tonight's "debate" has written a book praising the messiah, to be released inauguration day, right?)
Many have made the accusation (incorrectly) that the 2000 election was stolen.
The election of 2008 truly could be.
How will conservatives react if they feel their votes were nullified?
"Progressives", remember this:
We conservatives tend to cling to our Bibles and guns.
Most of us have several of both.
We already know we cannot trust our media. We're beginning to learn we can no longer trust our government.
How badly do you want to win? How far down this path do you truly want to go?
Bible and guns...
Conservatives have both and know how to use them. We'll rely on the Bible, no matter what. It's my fervent hope we won't feel compelled to use the guns.
02 October 2008
Lightning Strikes Twice
We're in Destin, remember, so things are a little discomboobulated.
She came up the stairs behind me and stood at the landing, adjacent to my recliner, quietly.
After a few seconds I said, "So honey, are you ready to go for a walk?"
"When you hear what I've done, you won't be calling me honey."
Uh-oh.
Her tone indicates I'm in for some pain.
"Can you believe I did it again?!"
Only this time she did it better. All that's left is the cover, wet and limp. No trace of anything else remains.
A year of phone numbers, appointments, tax information, addresses, and memories...
Gone.
I smile and say, "Well, no amount of worrying will bring it back."
But I'm sick inside.
This too will pass.
She came up the stairs behind me and stood at the landing, adjacent to my recliner, quietly.
After a few seconds I said, "So honey, are you ready to go for a walk?"
"When you hear what I've done, you won't be calling me honey."
Uh-oh.
Her tone indicates I'm in for some pain.
"Can you believe I did it again?!"
Only this time she did it better. All that's left is the cover, wet and limp. No trace of anything else remains.
A year of phone numbers, appointments, tax information, addresses, and memories...
Gone.
I smile and say, "Well, no amount of worrying will bring it back."
But I'm sick inside.
This too will pass.
30 September 2008
If You, Like Me, Know History-
What does this most remind you of?
Hope and change, with the new "Presidential Seal" in the background.
Heil Obama!
Hope and change, with the new "Presidential Seal" in the background.
Heil Obama!
A Truly Scary Thought:
There's already a woman just slightly more than a heartbeat away from the Presidency, and that woman is Nancy Pelosi.
God, please keep GWB and Cheney healthy for a little more than a month!
The market closed lower than my post below indicates. When all was sorted out at the end of the day, the Dow Jones average closed down almost 800 points...
A record number, but not a record percentage. I just rechecked, and the DJ average is actually up for the day at this point.
Strange.
And Rodolfo, my warning was for anyone reading the blog.
If you read my old posts, you got the benefit of my questionably valuable opinion.
God, please keep GWB and Cheney healthy for a little more than a month!
The market closed lower than my post below indicates. When all was sorted out at the end of the day, the Dow Jones average closed down almost 800 points...
A record number, but not a record percentage. I just rechecked, and the DJ average is actually up for the day at this point.
Strange.
And Rodolfo, my warning was for anyone reading the blog.
If you read my old posts, you got the benefit of my questionably valuable opinion.
29 September 2008
Bail Out!
I'm thinking "Bailout" has two meanings...
Sometimes I wish I could just "Bail Out" of this machine and let it continue on it's perilous journey by itself.
I watched Fox News with terrified interest as the vote was tallied in the House of Representatives. It was obvious from the start that if the issue was gonna pass, it would be a squeaker. When it didn't pass I watched with equally fearful interest as the Dow Jones average tumbled 700+ points, then recovered to just under a 600 point loss. I kept thinking about a friend at work that just retired, and wondered if he now thinks that was such a good idea. I'm glad now to have the option to continue working as necessary to put more funds in my retirement account, although we all have to be wondering how our individual companies will fare with the fallout from this shakeup, don't we?
So now the finger pointing begins.
George Bush is at fault.
Both houses of Congress are at fault.
Greedy people are at fault, although if others had been doin' their jobs, greedy folks could not have taken advantage of this situation as they have.
I'm most amazed at our Congress.
Democrats are in control and could have passed this bill on their own had it not been such a stinker. It's funny to see those same democrats begging for others to join George Bush to get this monstrosity passed...
I thought GWB was an idiot- that no one in their right mind should follow him?
Yet now we hear Democrats blaming republicans for not following ChimpHitlerBush's lead.
Thank GOD for House Republicans!
And Barney Frank!
Chairman of a committee that should have stopped all this nonsense two years ago, yet he's up to his eyeballs in this corruption.
And of course there are lots of others to blame in both political parties.
THROW THE BUMS OUT !
It's gonna be interesting to watch this unfold...
We find ourselves here in Destin, Florida wondering if we'll be able to buy gas to make our way home:
Will it be available?
Will we be able to afford it, even if it is available?
There will be ramifications to all this we cannot yet foresee.
But many of us have seen it coming for some time and have been warning others.
Did you start buying your Gold coins yet?
It may be a little late for that.
Sometimes I wish I could just "Bail Out" of this machine and let it continue on it's perilous journey by itself.
I watched Fox News with terrified interest as the vote was tallied in the House of Representatives. It was obvious from the start that if the issue was gonna pass, it would be a squeaker. When it didn't pass I watched with equally fearful interest as the Dow Jones average tumbled 700+ points, then recovered to just under a 600 point loss. I kept thinking about a friend at work that just retired, and wondered if he now thinks that was such a good idea. I'm glad now to have the option to continue working as necessary to put more funds in my retirement account, although we all have to be wondering how our individual companies will fare with the fallout from this shakeup, don't we?
So now the finger pointing begins.
George Bush is at fault.
Both houses of Congress are at fault.
Greedy people are at fault, although if others had been doin' their jobs, greedy folks could not have taken advantage of this situation as they have.
I'm most amazed at our Congress.
Democrats are in control and could have passed this bill on their own had it not been such a stinker. It's funny to see those same democrats begging for others to join George Bush to get this monstrosity passed...
I thought GWB was an idiot- that no one in their right mind should follow him?
Yet now we hear Democrats blaming republicans for not following ChimpHitlerBush's lead.
Thank GOD for House Republicans!
And Barney Frank!
Chairman of a committee that should have stopped all this nonsense two years ago, yet he's up to his eyeballs in this corruption.
And of course there are lots of others to blame in both political parties.
THROW THE BUMS OUT !
It's gonna be interesting to watch this unfold...
We find ourselves here in Destin, Florida wondering if we'll be able to buy gas to make our way home:
Will it be available?
Will we be able to afford it, even if it is available?
There will be ramifications to all this we cannot yet foresee.
But many of us have seen it coming for some time and have been warning others.
Did you start buying your Gold coins yet?
It may be a little late for that.
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