I must confess, I haven't posted for some time. I can come up with a million excuses, but, I don't need to.
We embarked on a large expansion of the Marina this past year. It started with the clearing of 4 1/2 acres we had purchased next door to the original facility. After clearing, we needed to grade the area for better drainage. There is a pond at one end, so we could funnel drainage to there. After the grading, we laid out roadways to be used for moving boats in and out of storage which is our intended use of the property. Once that was done, we had large stone, actually slag from a nearby steel plant, spread on the roadways. Once that was done we topped the entire property with smaller slag and we were done with that portion. Yet to do is fencing and plantings. That is on the agenda for this spring / summer.
During this part of the process, we also removed our old boat ramp and replace it with a new wider and longer concrete ramp. Our old ramp was put in some 50 years ago and wasn't intended for the size and weight of present day boats. In some places the old concrete was as thin as 2 inches. There was a tree near the ramp that had grown to almost 4 foot in diameter and the root system was under the ramp and breaking through and 50 years of travel was also breaking up the old ramp. We probably make over 3000 trips in or out of the ramp each season and it is also open to the public 24 hours a day.
The size of boats has grown every year and our present storage buildings were erected when boats were much smaller. Where we used to house 160 boats inside, we could only house 65 or so. That is why we decided to build a new storage building. The new building will allow us to stack boats three high down each side and then fill the center aisle. We expect to store around 100 in this new building. Needless to say each step of the way in the construction process created some issues that required ingenuity to solve. A process that we hoped to finish in time to store in this past fall extended well into the new year. I purchased a Lift Truck from a local marina friend that allows us to raise a boat 16 feet in the air to stack boats on the third story. It's ugly as can be, but we had it serviced and it's ready to go. We have most of the driveways redone and are awaiting the COVID-19 to finish it's course so that we can open up and enjoy the summer months.
While that was all happening, we also started renovating our oldest storage building and making a new repair shop in it. We concreted the floors, created overhead door openings and installed doors. Replaced the roof, installed insulation and sided the inside. Installed heat, wiring and a new well. We have the lobby, office and parts room nearly complete and are anticipating moving from the old shop in the next 10 days to two weeks. Then we will finish bathrooms, plumbing the water and air and be ready to go. The old shop will get converted to more showroom over the summer.
This spring our business has been interrupted by the corona virus outbreak and subsequent travel restrictions. I have been forced to temporarily lay off some of my staff. In the 13 years since we purchased the Marina we have never had to do this. It is a terrible feeling to do this to staff that is much like family and I hope we can reunite soon. .
So, you just read one of my many reasons to not have posted lately. It is a very valid excuse.
Friday, March 27, 2020
Sunday, June 2, 2019
Vacation
Saturday, 05182019.
On the road at 0730. Stopped at BK for sustenance. Went to Wilby's for petrol and Lottery tickets. Then went back home to retrieve JC's inhaler. Back on road again, destination somewhere in South Dakota. Drove west through Indiana on Highway 10. we were intent on not visiting Chicago. Beautiful, sunshiny day. Passed by the shores of Bass Lake on the western edge of Indiana. Nice and big! Made good time to Illinois and joined Highway 17 outside of Momence, Ill. Nice trip to central Illinois to Interstate 39. Took 39 north to Interstate 80 at LaSalle. Ate lunch at Denny's and headed west on I80. Drove past the "LARGEST TRUCK STOP IN THE WORLD" about 2/3 the way across Illinois. Then we ran into very heavy rain and exited the Interstate for lack of vision. We chilled in the Kohls parking lot for 20 minutes and the rain let up, so we headed out. Before we even exited the parking lot, it rained so hard there was no visibility, so we pulled back in and waited for it to let up. at first break in the rain we went into Wal-mart and spent about 45 minutes "shopping". ( cause we don't have a Wal-mart near home) When the rain let up, again, we hit the road. This time the rain was light enough to see. We crossed a very swollen Mississippi River at Molene Illinois and proceeded west toward DesMoines Iowa. After several more downpours and several miles of bright sunshine, we gave up for the night. We ate some wonderful pizza and acquired a room in the Marriot at Altoona, Iowa. We are about 12 miles east of DeMoines. Unloaded the luggage, lugged it to the elevator. We step in and Jeannie attempts to pick our floor by pushing on the number two, several times. I reach over and push the button next to the number and the door closes and the other guy in the elevator and I bust out laughing. We reach our floor and eventually our room. Jeannie takes the key card and cannot figure how to insert it ( it is a card that you simply swipe across the sensor). We both bust out laughing as I press it to the sensor and unlock the door. Yep, we are technically advanced! Tomorrow we have our sights set on Mitchell, South Dakota and the Corn Palace.
Sunday May 19
Woke appropriately at 4 AM local time. Even Jeannie was ready by 6, so she went to breakfast in the lobby area. I loaded the luggage and started the car and went next door for gas. I filled the car at the KUM N GO, no kidding! It was closer than the GET N GO across the street, Picked up JC and headed west. About 30 miles from Iowa's western border, we came to a stop on Interstate 80. We could see a couple semis scattered around on the road about a mile across the valley. After half an hour, the Ambulance, wrecker and fire truck passed us on the berm headed to the scene. After sitting motionless for over an hour we were on our way. 3 minutes later we hit an exit and made our way to a Caseys for a Pee break. Back on the road with pizza in hand. We crossed Iowa and hit Interstate 29 north to Sioux City and crossed into South Dakota. At Sioux Falls in South Dakota we took an off ramp to the USS South Dakota Battleship museum. Very nice place. No Battleship, but a full scale deck layout and wonderful museum with tons of artifacts. After the museum, we headed to the Plains Animal Zoo and Museum. It was only mid forties and some of the animals were not out, but it was a very nice Zoo. The Museum was full of "Stuffed" animals from all over the world. From a gigantic African Elephant Bull to small squirrel type animals. Very much worth the price of admission. By this time it is late and we decide to stay here for the night. We book a room at Holiday Inn Express (that's why we are so smart). We slip over a couple blocks to Wendys for dinner and then back to our room for the night. Mitchell and the Corn Palace are about an hour and a half drive in the morning. We plan to hit it and the Pioneer Auto Museum in Murdo tomorrow and head west toward Wall Drug.
Monday 05/20/19
We drug our butts out of bed at 7:30 local time and readied ourselves for the day. The weather was much improved with bright sunshine. Breakfast in the hotel , gas at the nearest Sinclair station and we were on the road precisely at 9. Mitchell was only 67 miles away from our entrance onto Interstate 90. About 15 minutes into our trip, we found ourselves at the Dino Mart for our first pee stop of the day. Back on the road the speed limit is 80 so we made great time and exited at Mitchell at a little before 10. We followed the signs to the Corn Palace and parked in a mostly empty parking lot. Seeing the Corn Palace brought back memories for me and made memories for JC. It was just as cool as I remembered from 1961. We spent several hours reading history and exploring the entire facility. After purchasing a couple souvenirs, we headed to a archaeological dig of a prehistoric Indian site. Again, we watched a short film and viewed the artifacts and walked the grounds to the actual "dig". We found the experience very interesting. By the time we finished our sightseeing, we were hungry for a late lunch and found an old train station. This housed a bar / restaurant and we enjoyed our lunch. Jeannie ordered a "Hot Burger" and requested lettuce, tomato and mayo only to find that a "Hot Burger" is a burger Manhattan! We chuckled over that. I had gourmet mini corn dogs and fries. I felt that was appropriate since we were near the Corn Palace. We left Mitchell with our sights set on Murdo and the Pioneer Auto Show / Museum 154 miles to the west. At 80 mph, we were there roughly 2 hours later after a brief stop for ice cream at a tiny town along the way. We pulled off the Interstate at exit 192 and pulled into the Pioneer Museum and checked hours of operation. We planned to be there at opening in the morning and went a hundred yards down the street to a cool old motel and checked in for the evening. The day was chilly (started the day at 34) and windy and we are both tired and ready to relax. Tomorrow, after we spend most of the day here, we will try to make Wall SD for the evening. We will watch weather closely. Rapid City was in the midst of a winter storm. 6 to 12 inches of snow and 55 mph wind gusts are expected tomorrow.
Tuesday the 21st of May in the year 2019
We got up, got our make-up on and went to breakfast in the lobby. It is windy, cold and rainy outside. Being the hardy explorers we are, we headed to the Pioneer Auto Museum. After a 1 minute drive, we arrived and went in. The Museum covers 42 buildings and more. Most of the buildings are not heated and some were receiving repairs from a very hard winter. The scope of the collected artifacts and cars and tractors etc., is absolutely amazing. To actually spend enough time to view most of it would require many days. We went into every building ( they are not connected,so we were soaked and cold most of the day) and were in awe of the accumulated items. If you name it, it was probably collected. We ate lunch in the GTO Cafe and warmed up a little. After shopping in the gift shop, we hit the road with Wall SD in our sights. The rain was steady but not real heavy so we made good time. We traveled at 70 MPH, well below the speed limit! We could see the terrain and even some of the Badlands as we approached Wall. We made our way to Wall Drug and luckily found a car just leaving and took their parking spot right in front of the Drug Store. The place was very busy because bus loads of sight seer that were turned away from Rushmore (closed for snow and power outages) were brought to Wall in stead. We explored the entire property and made some purchases in one of the dozen or so shops. By this time both of us were tired and hungry, so we left and search for a motel room. After we booked a room, we headed to the Badlands Cafe and Bar for dinner. They had really good burgers and JC had a beer and I a Root Beer. Back to the Motel, unload and flop on the bed to warm up and relax. Tomorrows plan is a drive through the Badlands, past Rushmore, through Custer National Park, Wounded Knee and Crazy Horse Mountain before settling for the night in Rapid City. Hope to see some sun and melted snow!
Wednesday May 22, 2019
We were up and at em and on the road by 8:00. Destination....Badlands. We drove east from Wall to 240 (Badlands scenic loop) and stopped at the Park Ticket booth. After 20 bucks, we were off into what looks like another world. The loop is 35 miles of unimaginable beauty. JC had to stop at every view point and take pictures. That was cool, but the temp was 40 and so was the wind. Throw in some rain and we were cold and wet. Fortunately, the rain quit shortly after our third stop and hike. We stopped half way through at the ranger / souvenir post and shopped and walked the little museum. For the last half of the loop, the skies lightened and the wind dropped to 25 mph. We saw Mountain Sheep, Bison and Prairie Dogs as we neared the end of the park road. JC could not believe the incredible beauty of the place. It is spectacular. We exited the park about 6 miles from Wall and decided to get lunch there. Our trip had lasted 4 1/2 hours. After lunch at Red Rock Cafe, we were on the road to Rapid City. A short hour later, we were pulling into the visitors bureau and picked up maps for the area. We knew that Mt. Rushmore and the surrounding areas had received 24" of snow in the last 48 hours, but found out the roads were open. Away we went, Mt. Rushmore and hopefully Mt. Crazy Horse also. 33 miles later we got our first glimpse of Mt. Rushmore and soon after pulled into the park. The attendant in the booth advised us that the park was without power and none of the buildings were open, but we were free to see the monument. We parked and walked up the walkway toward the monument. Again, a beautiful sight. There was still well over a foot of snow left, but the walkways were partially plowed. We left Mt. Rushmore and headed to Crazy Horse Mountain. After 17 short miles we entered the park. The size of the sculpture site is incredible and we could see the face in profile. It cost an extra 30 bucks per to get a ride closer and a full frontal view. As we were considering that, it began to snow and I wasn't in the mood for snowy mountain roads, so we headed out. Shortly the snow stopped and we decided to travel the Needles Highway. We found the southern end and headed across the scenic byway. Six miles into the crossing the road abruptly closed. We had to turn around and backtrack. We saw lots of deer along the road where the grass was exposed. We suspicion they were looking for food since there was still 20" of snow everywhere. We returned to the main road and headed back to Rapid City. We took a road back that looked good on the map, but was full of steep climbs and switch backs. 15 miles later we came to the first in a series of tunnels and pig-tail switchbacks. Fun and beautiful. The final tunnel was 50 yards long and as you traveled through it you realized that it perfectly framed Mt. Rushmore. Stunning! We finished our adventure at a Comfort Inn in Rapid City. Long, yet amazing full day. Tomorrows adventures are yet to be decided.
Thursday May 23
We got up, ready, ate breakfast and headed to Wyoming. Destination, The Devils Tower National Monument. We drove in the SUN! Most of the trip was through very snowy country. Some of the areas had received over 2 foot just 72 hours before. Roads were clear and sometimes wet but we made good time. As you round that first corner that you can see the Tower, you think you are almost there. We were close, 18 miles close. At the park, we showed our pass and drove the three miles up to the base of the monument and parked in the lot. It is hard to imagine the shear size until you witness it up close. We walked maybe 1/4 mile of the 1.4 mile path around the tower. It is breathtaking to witness up close. After many pictures and plenty of time staring with our mouths hanging open, we reluctantly drove away. We took a scenic rout east to South Dakota and Belle Fouche. From there we headed south to Deadwood, Lead and Central City. These are well preserved Old West Mining towns and quite a sight to see. As we attempted to leave we (for the first time) headed the wrong direction and several miles later discovered our boo boo and had to retrace our steps to the correct road. Once back on I90 headed east, we set our sights on Murdo for the evening. We booked a room where we stayed on the way west and are in for the night. Tomorrow, we have our sights set on the Quad Cities at the Mississippi on the Iowa and Illinois border. Then on home on Saturday.
It's Friday...woohoo
We left Murdo at 8 am local time and headed across South Dakota on our way home. It is 49 degrees and lightly overcast. By 11 o'clock we had covered the remaining 225 miles of I90 and headed south toward Iowa at Sioux City, By noon we had crossed into Iowa and were heading for I80 and east. We were on I80 headed east by 1:30. The sun was now out and the temperatures were in the low 80's. We crossed the Mississippi River at 5:30 and decided to call it a day at 6:30. We checked into a Best Western and JC took a dip in the pool to recover from the roughly 700 miles we covered today. We are on the edge of a front and possible severe weather tonight. If we don't blow away tonight, we should be home in mid afternoon tomorrow.
Saturday morning, the 25th of May
We were up and ready by 7 am local time and Jeannie headed to the lobby for breakfast. I headed to the local Casey's for gas and Dr. Pepper. I picked JC up and we headed for Indiana and home. The weather was violent last night, but the bulk was west of us. The day was warm and sunny. We had an uneventful trip as we retraced our drive from a week prior. We arrived home at 3:20 and unloaded the luggage. Dina stopped by (because she knew we would have gifts!) and we talked and reminisced about the spectacular Vacation we had just completed.
I had made that trip with my two Brothers, Mom, Dad and Grandmother Coy over 50 years ago and relived some of those memories. I think JC was completely overwhelmed by the grandeur and beauty of the things we experienced on our journey and will have those memories to last her for a long time. The weather was poor at times but was completely made irrelevant by the things we saw. We are already looking forward to our next adventure.
On the road at 0730. Stopped at BK for sustenance. Went to Wilby's for petrol and Lottery tickets. Then went back home to retrieve JC's inhaler. Back on road again, destination somewhere in South Dakota. Drove west through Indiana on Highway 10. we were intent on not visiting Chicago. Beautiful, sunshiny day. Passed by the shores of Bass Lake on the western edge of Indiana. Nice and big! Made good time to Illinois and joined Highway 17 outside of Momence, Ill. Nice trip to central Illinois to Interstate 39. Took 39 north to Interstate 80 at LaSalle. Ate lunch at Denny's and headed west on I80. Drove past the "LARGEST TRUCK STOP IN THE WORLD" about 2/3 the way across Illinois. Then we ran into very heavy rain and exited the Interstate for lack of vision. We chilled in the Kohls parking lot for 20 minutes and the rain let up, so we headed out. Before we even exited the parking lot, it rained so hard there was no visibility, so we pulled back in and waited for it to let up. at first break in the rain we went into Wal-mart and spent about 45 minutes "shopping". ( cause we don't have a Wal-mart near home) When the rain let up, again, we hit the road. This time the rain was light enough to see. We crossed a very swollen Mississippi River at Molene Illinois and proceeded west toward DesMoines Iowa. After several more downpours and several miles of bright sunshine, we gave up for the night. We ate some wonderful pizza and acquired a room in the Marriot at Altoona, Iowa. We are about 12 miles east of DeMoines. Unloaded the luggage, lugged it to the elevator. We step in and Jeannie attempts to pick our floor by pushing on the number two, several times. I reach over and push the button next to the number and the door closes and the other guy in the elevator and I bust out laughing. We reach our floor and eventually our room. Jeannie takes the key card and cannot figure how to insert it ( it is a card that you simply swipe across the sensor). We both bust out laughing as I press it to the sensor and unlock the door. Yep, we are technically advanced! Tomorrow we have our sights set on Mitchell, South Dakota and the Corn Palace.
Sunday May 19
Woke appropriately at 4 AM local time. Even Jeannie was ready by 6, so she went to breakfast in the lobby area. I loaded the luggage and started the car and went next door for gas. I filled the car at the KUM N GO, no kidding! It was closer than the GET N GO across the street, Picked up JC and headed west. About 30 miles from Iowa's western border, we came to a stop on Interstate 80. We could see a couple semis scattered around on the road about a mile across the valley. After half an hour, the Ambulance, wrecker and fire truck passed us on the berm headed to the scene. After sitting motionless for over an hour we were on our way. 3 minutes later we hit an exit and made our way to a Caseys for a Pee break. Back on the road with pizza in hand. We crossed Iowa and hit Interstate 29 north to Sioux City and crossed into South Dakota. At Sioux Falls in South Dakota we took an off ramp to the USS South Dakota Battleship museum. Very nice place. No Battleship, but a full scale deck layout and wonderful museum with tons of artifacts. After the museum, we headed to the Plains Animal Zoo and Museum. It was only mid forties and some of the animals were not out, but it was a very nice Zoo. The Museum was full of "Stuffed" animals from all over the world. From a gigantic African Elephant Bull to small squirrel type animals. Very much worth the price of admission. By this time it is late and we decide to stay here for the night. We book a room at Holiday Inn Express (that's why we are so smart). We slip over a couple blocks to Wendys for dinner and then back to our room for the night. Mitchell and the Corn Palace are about an hour and a half drive in the morning. We plan to hit it and the Pioneer Auto Museum in Murdo tomorrow and head west toward Wall Drug.
Monday 05/20/19
We drug our butts out of bed at 7:30 local time and readied ourselves for the day. The weather was much improved with bright sunshine. Breakfast in the hotel , gas at the nearest Sinclair station and we were on the road precisely at 9. Mitchell was only 67 miles away from our entrance onto Interstate 90. About 15 minutes into our trip, we found ourselves at the Dino Mart for our first pee stop of the day. Back on the road the speed limit is 80 so we made great time and exited at Mitchell at a little before 10. We followed the signs to the Corn Palace and parked in a mostly empty parking lot. Seeing the Corn Palace brought back memories for me and made memories for JC. It was just as cool as I remembered from 1961. We spent several hours reading history and exploring the entire facility. After purchasing a couple souvenirs, we headed to a archaeological dig of a prehistoric Indian site. Again, we watched a short film and viewed the artifacts and walked the grounds to the actual "dig". We found the experience very interesting. By the time we finished our sightseeing, we were hungry for a late lunch and found an old train station. This housed a bar / restaurant and we enjoyed our lunch. Jeannie ordered a "Hot Burger" and requested lettuce, tomato and mayo only to find that a "Hot Burger" is a burger Manhattan! We chuckled over that. I had gourmet mini corn dogs and fries. I felt that was appropriate since we were near the Corn Palace. We left Mitchell with our sights set on Murdo and the Pioneer Auto Show / Museum 154 miles to the west. At 80 mph, we were there roughly 2 hours later after a brief stop for ice cream at a tiny town along the way. We pulled off the Interstate at exit 192 and pulled into the Pioneer Museum and checked hours of operation. We planned to be there at opening in the morning and went a hundred yards down the street to a cool old motel and checked in for the evening. The day was chilly (started the day at 34) and windy and we are both tired and ready to relax. Tomorrow, after we spend most of the day here, we will try to make Wall SD for the evening. We will watch weather closely. Rapid City was in the midst of a winter storm. 6 to 12 inches of snow and 55 mph wind gusts are expected tomorrow.
Tuesday the 21st of May in the year 2019
We got up, got our make-up on and went to breakfast in the lobby. It is windy, cold and rainy outside. Being the hardy explorers we are, we headed to the Pioneer Auto Museum. After a 1 minute drive, we arrived and went in. The Museum covers 42 buildings and more. Most of the buildings are not heated and some were receiving repairs from a very hard winter. The scope of the collected artifacts and cars and tractors etc., is absolutely amazing. To actually spend enough time to view most of it would require many days. We went into every building ( they are not connected,so we were soaked and cold most of the day) and were in awe of the accumulated items. If you name it, it was probably collected. We ate lunch in the GTO Cafe and warmed up a little. After shopping in the gift shop, we hit the road with Wall SD in our sights. The rain was steady but not real heavy so we made good time. We traveled at 70 MPH, well below the speed limit! We could see the terrain and even some of the Badlands as we approached Wall. We made our way to Wall Drug and luckily found a car just leaving and took their parking spot right in front of the Drug Store. The place was very busy because bus loads of sight seer that were turned away from Rushmore (closed for snow and power outages) were brought to Wall in stead. We explored the entire property and made some purchases in one of the dozen or so shops. By this time both of us were tired and hungry, so we left and search for a motel room. After we booked a room, we headed to the Badlands Cafe and Bar for dinner. They had really good burgers and JC had a beer and I a Root Beer. Back to the Motel, unload and flop on the bed to warm up and relax. Tomorrows plan is a drive through the Badlands, past Rushmore, through Custer National Park, Wounded Knee and Crazy Horse Mountain before settling for the night in Rapid City. Hope to see some sun and melted snow!
Wednesday May 22, 2019
We were up and at em and on the road by 8:00. Destination....Badlands. We drove east from Wall to 240 (Badlands scenic loop) and stopped at the Park Ticket booth. After 20 bucks, we were off into what looks like another world. The loop is 35 miles of unimaginable beauty. JC had to stop at every view point and take pictures. That was cool, but the temp was 40 and so was the wind. Throw in some rain and we were cold and wet. Fortunately, the rain quit shortly after our third stop and hike. We stopped half way through at the ranger / souvenir post and shopped and walked the little museum. For the last half of the loop, the skies lightened and the wind dropped to 25 mph. We saw Mountain Sheep, Bison and Prairie Dogs as we neared the end of the park road. JC could not believe the incredible beauty of the place. It is spectacular. We exited the park about 6 miles from Wall and decided to get lunch there. Our trip had lasted 4 1/2 hours. After lunch at Red Rock Cafe, we were on the road to Rapid City. A short hour later, we were pulling into the visitors bureau and picked up maps for the area. We knew that Mt. Rushmore and the surrounding areas had received 24" of snow in the last 48 hours, but found out the roads were open. Away we went, Mt. Rushmore and hopefully Mt. Crazy Horse also. 33 miles later we got our first glimpse of Mt. Rushmore and soon after pulled into the park. The attendant in the booth advised us that the park was without power and none of the buildings were open, but we were free to see the monument. We parked and walked up the walkway toward the monument. Again, a beautiful sight. There was still well over a foot of snow left, but the walkways were partially plowed. We left Mt. Rushmore and headed to Crazy Horse Mountain. After 17 short miles we entered the park. The size of the sculpture site is incredible and we could see the face in profile. It cost an extra 30 bucks per to get a ride closer and a full frontal view. As we were considering that, it began to snow and I wasn't in the mood for snowy mountain roads, so we headed out. Shortly the snow stopped and we decided to travel the Needles Highway. We found the southern end and headed across the scenic byway. Six miles into the crossing the road abruptly closed. We had to turn around and backtrack. We saw lots of deer along the road where the grass was exposed. We suspicion they were looking for food since there was still 20" of snow everywhere. We returned to the main road and headed back to Rapid City. We took a road back that looked good on the map, but was full of steep climbs and switch backs. 15 miles later we came to the first in a series of tunnels and pig-tail switchbacks. Fun and beautiful. The final tunnel was 50 yards long and as you traveled through it you realized that it perfectly framed Mt. Rushmore. Stunning! We finished our adventure at a Comfort Inn in Rapid City. Long, yet amazing full day. Tomorrows adventures are yet to be decided.
Thursday May 23
We got up, ready, ate breakfast and headed to Wyoming. Destination, The Devils Tower National Monument. We drove in the SUN! Most of the trip was through very snowy country. Some of the areas had received over 2 foot just 72 hours before. Roads were clear and sometimes wet but we made good time. As you round that first corner that you can see the Tower, you think you are almost there. We were close, 18 miles close. At the park, we showed our pass and drove the three miles up to the base of the monument and parked in the lot. It is hard to imagine the shear size until you witness it up close. We walked maybe 1/4 mile of the 1.4 mile path around the tower. It is breathtaking to witness up close. After many pictures and plenty of time staring with our mouths hanging open, we reluctantly drove away. We took a scenic rout east to South Dakota and Belle Fouche. From there we headed south to Deadwood, Lead and Central City. These are well preserved Old West Mining towns and quite a sight to see. As we attempted to leave we (for the first time) headed the wrong direction and several miles later discovered our boo boo and had to retrace our steps to the correct road. Once back on I90 headed east, we set our sights on Murdo for the evening. We booked a room where we stayed on the way west and are in for the night. Tomorrow, we have our sights set on the Quad Cities at the Mississippi on the Iowa and Illinois border. Then on home on Saturday.
It's Friday...woohoo
We left Murdo at 8 am local time and headed across South Dakota on our way home. It is 49 degrees and lightly overcast. By 11 o'clock we had covered the remaining 225 miles of I90 and headed south toward Iowa at Sioux City, By noon we had crossed into Iowa and were heading for I80 and east. We were on I80 headed east by 1:30. The sun was now out and the temperatures were in the low 80's. We crossed the Mississippi River at 5:30 and decided to call it a day at 6:30. We checked into a Best Western and JC took a dip in the pool to recover from the roughly 700 miles we covered today. We are on the edge of a front and possible severe weather tonight. If we don't blow away tonight, we should be home in mid afternoon tomorrow.
Saturday morning, the 25th of May
We were up and ready by 7 am local time and Jeannie headed to the lobby for breakfast. I headed to the local Casey's for gas and Dr. Pepper. I picked JC up and we headed for Indiana and home. The weather was violent last night, but the bulk was west of us. The day was warm and sunny. We had an uneventful trip as we retraced our drive from a week prior. We arrived home at 3:20 and unloaded the luggage. Dina stopped by (because she knew we would have gifts!) and we talked and reminisced about the spectacular Vacation we had just completed.
I had made that trip with my two Brothers, Mom, Dad and Grandmother Coy over 50 years ago and relived some of those memories. I think JC was completely overwhelmed by the grandeur and beauty of the things we experienced on our journey and will have those memories to last her for a long time. The weather was poor at times but was completely made irrelevant by the things we saw. We are already looking forward to our next adventure.
Wednesday, February 20, 2019
Time flies.
I acquired my first job, outside of the home, when I was 12. I started caddying at Tippecanoe Country Club just 1/2 mile from our house. I was small for my age and had to rent a pull cart to be able to carry a bag in those days. I was a caddy for 2 more years and eventually ended up working in the pro shop washing clubs. At 14, I was old enough to work on the grounds crew and started raking traps with a 3 foot rake. (There were no powered trap machines back then.) Tippy at that time had over 100 traps on the course, so it was hard to keep up. By the end of that summer, I had moved on to mowing greens and night time watering. Such was the start of my working career.
When I turned 16, I found year round work at Lyall Electric in North Webster. It was a night janitor job, so I could do it after school. In the summer I also worked part time at a local gas station. While doing my janitor duties, I watched all the fascinating machinery running, most of which my Father designed, built or installed. The night foreman was kind of lazy and more than willing to instruct me on operation of the equipment if I didn't rat him out and took over for him during his many breaks. Upon graduation from High School, I started working full time and eventually took over operation of those machines. I worked on and off for Lyall for several years attaining plant manager and eventually general manager positions. I was , fortunately for me, like my Father. I have an innate ability to understand and create complex machinery. I even spent time designing molding machinery for the company.
Lyall Electric could not always hold my interest and I tried several other paths between stints at Lyall. When I was 22, my Father and his brother purchased a local Marina. Dad felt I would enjoy working there and I foolishly agreed. I had no formal mechanical training but agreed to be the service manager. I was also the service technician and bathroom cleaner, etc.. With the help of service manuals and a natural ability to understand all things mechanical, I learned how to service and rebuild all manner of marine equipment. If I may say so, I was / am pretty good at it. The Marina was a summer job and I tired of finding winter jobs after a couple years. A Family friend ended up owning a larger Marina and approached me to manage it. By this time, I really enjoyed the industry and accepted his offer of full time employment. That Marina changed hands shortly, but, I was asked to continue. The new ownership was very well financed and we grew quickly and expanded to a second location as well. The managing partner was out of touch with the workings of small business and was forever meddling and creating problems. After several years I left and made a return stint at Lyall. The Marine industry called and I found myself helping at several local marinas. During one of those stints I was approached by a representative from Brunswick Corp.. They were looking to replace their testing manager. It sounded good and paid well, so I accepted. Two months after starting, the Engineering Manager was caught taking money under the table and let go. The Engineering Department was staffed by some very long term employees, but not one of them was interested in taking over. The President asked me who I would recommend and everyone I suggested had turned down the job. He said, I think jokingly, that he needed someone like me. Someone with a boating background, work ethic and fresh ideas. I looked him in the eye, winked and said "ok, I'll do it". He must have felt trapped and agreed to give me the job. I think he figured he could replace me when he found someone.
I was a natural at engineering and all but a few of the old timers were happy and we as a group were very productive. After restructuring the department and instituting a thorough research, design and testing program we managed to lower warranty costs well below norms for the industry. So much that we caught the eye of the Chairman of Brunswick, who insisted that we continue and advise other Divisions on how to do the same. We manufactured four brands, a total of over 350 models at 3 plants as well as contributed to 2 other divisions. I was invited to sit on the Technical Board of Directors for the entire Marine segment of Brunswick Corp. At one point I managed one of the Manufacturing plants, headed Engineering, Design and Testing as well as contributing to the Corporate Technology Group. I loved working there and devoted 7 days a week. Unfortunately, uppermost management changes often in Corporations this size and our group suffered under fresh management that was unable to do the job. Eventually the Group was sold off. I was tired and decided to pursue consulting on my own and signed on to a project by Mercury Marine (owned by Brunswick). As that project came to an end, I decided to find something new. I was tired from the grind of 8 years on the constant go.
I dabbled at various jobs for a couple years. Moved to Florida to take a job at a large Marina there. My wife and I did not like living so far from home and moved back after a year. I took a job as operation manager at a local boat builder and fell back in the 7 day routine, Loved my job, but like so many places in my industry, the General Manager was over his head and soon replaced with someone I simply could not agree with. I suffered my first heart attack and after recovery, I left the company.
Again, I was footloose, suffering from a severe case of enlightenment that I was mortal and undecided on what to do next. Again, a friend came to me and asked for my help in his fledgling business. I agreed because there were set hours and little responsibility so I felt I could continue to rehab. Shortly, the Marine industry came calling. This time it was the owner of what used to be Dads marina. He was desperate to get out and wanted me to consider buying the marina. You would have thought that by now I would be smart enough to resist something that would require unlimited time. But, no. Not me. So we worked out a deal and I became owner of a small business that was basically dying from lack of interest. Long story short (Haha), here we are 11 years later.
That brings me to the point I have led up to.
Jeannie and I realized 2 years ago that we did not have the energy or the social media savvy to continue to grow and were putting the business in danger. A light bulb came on and we agreed to turn the marina operation over to someone. Fortunately, our son was potentially available. Having grown up in the industry and having been successful in many capacities we felt he would be perfect. We came to terms and at last we had a succession plan that we were very happy with.
Now at this point I find myself attempting retirement. I struggle with a sense of loss. I don't have to get up and go to work every day. This is a huge change after 55 years. At times I feel completely lost. I have no worry about the business being well taken care of, yet something is missing. I have a couple hobbies that I always wished for more time to involve myself in. I know that this withdrawal will eventually diminish. I just have to be patient.
Retirement, a whole new world. Time does fly.
When I turned 16, I found year round work at Lyall Electric in North Webster. It was a night janitor job, so I could do it after school. In the summer I also worked part time at a local gas station. While doing my janitor duties, I watched all the fascinating machinery running, most of which my Father designed, built or installed. The night foreman was kind of lazy and more than willing to instruct me on operation of the equipment if I didn't rat him out and took over for him during his many breaks. Upon graduation from High School, I started working full time and eventually took over operation of those machines. I worked on and off for Lyall for several years attaining plant manager and eventually general manager positions. I was , fortunately for me, like my Father. I have an innate ability to understand and create complex machinery. I even spent time designing molding machinery for the company.
Lyall Electric could not always hold my interest and I tried several other paths between stints at Lyall. When I was 22, my Father and his brother purchased a local Marina. Dad felt I would enjoy working there and I foolishly agreed. I had no formal mechanical training but agreed to be the service manager. I was also the service technician and bathroom cleaner, etc.. With the help of service manuals and a natural ability to understand all things mechanical, I learned how to service and rebuild all manner of marine equipment. If I may say so, I was / am pretty good at it. The Marina was a summer job and I tired of finding winter jobs after a couple years. A Family friend ended up owning a larger Marina and approached me to manage it. By this time, I really enjoyed the industry and accepted his offer of full time employment. That Marina changed hands shortly, but, I was asked to continue. The new ownership was very well financed and we grew quickly and expanded to a second location as well. The managing partner was out of touch with the workings of small business and was forever meddling and creating problems. After several years I left and made a return stint at Lyall. The Marine industry called and I found myself helping at several local marinas. During one of those stints I was approached by a representative from Brunswick Corp.. They were looking to replace their testing manager. It sounded good and paid well, so I accepted. Two months after starting, the Engineering Manager was caught taking money under the table and let go. The Engineering Department was staffed by some very long term employees, but not one of them was interested in taking over. The President asked me who I would recommend and everyone I suggested had turned down the job. He said, I think jokingly, that he needed someone like me. Someone with a boating background, work ethic and fresh ideas. I looked him in the eye, winked and said "ok, I'll do it". He must have felt trapped and agreed to give me the job. I think he figured he could replace me when he found someone.
I was a natural at engineering and all but a few of the old timers were happy and we as a group were very productive. After restructuring the department and instituting a thorough research, design and testing program we managed to lower warranty costs well below norms for the industry. So much that we caught the eye of the Chairman of Brunswick, who insisted that we continue and advise other Divisions on how to do the same. We manufactured four brands, a total of over 350 models at 3 plants as well as contributed to 2 other divisions. I was invited to sit on the Technical Board of Directors for the entire Marine segment of Brunswick Corp. At one point I managed one of the Manufacturing plants, headed Engineering, Design and Testing as well as contributing to the Corporate Technology Group. I loved working there and devoted 7 days a week. Unfortunately, uppermost management changes often in Corporations this size and our group suffered under fresh management that was unable to do the job. Eventually the Group was sold off. I was tired and decided to pursue consulting on my own and signed on to a project by Mercury Marine (owned by Brunswick). As that project came to an end, I decided to find something new. I was tired from the grind of 8 years on the constant go.
I dabbled at various jobs for a couple years. Moved to Florida to take a job at a large Marina there. My wife and I did not like living so far from home and moved back after a year. I took a job as operation manager at a local boat builder and fell back in the 7 day routine, Loved my job, but like so many places in my industry, the General Manager was over his head and soon replaced with someone I simply could not agree with. I suffered my first heart attack and after recovery, I left the company.
Again, I was footloose, suffering from a severe case of enlightenment that I was mortal and undecided on what to do next. Again, a friend came to me and asked for my help in his fledgling business. I agreed because there were set hours and little responsibility so I felt I could continue to rehab. Shortly, the Marine industry came calling. This time it was the owner of what used to be Dads marina. He was desperate to get out and wanted me to consider buying the marina. You would have thought that by now I would be smart enough to resist something that would require unlimited time. But, no. Not me. So we worked out a deal and I became owner of a small business that was basically dying from lack of interest. Long story short (Haha), here we are 11 years later.
That brings me to the point I have led up to.
Jeannie and I realized 2 years ago that we did not have the energy or the social media savvy to continue to grow and were putting the business in danger. A light bulb came on and we agreed to turn the marina operation over to someone. Fortunately, our son was potentially available. Having grown up in the industry and having been successful in many capacities we felt he would be perfect. We came to terms and at last we had a succession plan that we were very happy with.
Now at this point I find myself attempting retirement. I struggle with a sense of loss. I don't have to get up and go to work every day. This is a huge change after 55 years. At times I feel completely lost. I have no worry about the business being well taken care of, yet something is missing. I have a couple hobbies that I always wished for more time to involve myself in. I know that this withdrawal will eventually diminish. I just have to be patient.
Retirement, a whole new world. Time does fly.
Sunday, April 29, 2018
Tina
I met Tina in 7th grade. She was the prettiest, most popular girl in our class. One day a classmate asked me to ask her if she would go to the seventh grade dance with him. So I asked Tina if she was going to the dance and she responded no one had asked her. So I asked her to go with me and she said yes. That was the beginning of a friendship that has lasted for 50 years.
Our relationship is based on many things, none of them have anything to do with romance. I have always found Tina to be smart, organized, caring and ripe with common sense. She has a marvelous sense of humor and a way of viewing things that has uncommon clarity. I really can find no reason she favors me with her friendship. It is fair to say that I love Tina. She is the closest thing to a sister that I have.
Over the years Tina has been the keeper of our class. She has been the moving force that organizes reunions and tracks class mates. She has always allowed me to assist her and the time we have spent has been a source of happiness that I treasure.
In High School, Tina dated one of my good friends and they married shortly after graduating. Funny thing is, I dated and became engaged to her younger sister. Neither worked out, but, we both found new loves and enjoyed a happy life. Each went our way, our paths crossing every so often. Recent years have had us spending more time together and certainly ,0n my part, enjoying every minute of time spent together.
If I never work up the courage to express fully my love and admiration for Tina, I hope in some way she knows.
Our relationship is based on many things, none of them have anything to do with romance. I have always found Tina to be smart, organized, caring and ripe with common sense. She has a marvelous sense of humor and a way of viewing things that has uncommon clarity. I really can find no reason she favors me with her friendship. It is fair to say that I love Tina. She is the closest thing to a sister that I have.
Over the years Tina has been the keeper of our class. She has been the moving force that organizes reunions and tracks class mates. She has always allowed me to assist her and the time we have spent has been a source of happiness that I treasure.
In High School, Tina dated one of my good friends and they married shortly after graduating. Funny thing is, I dated and became engaged to her younger sister. Neither worked out, but, we both found new loves and enjoyed a happy life. Each went our way, our paths crossing every so often. Recent years have had us spending more time together and certainly ,0n my part, enjoying every minute of time spent together.
If I never work up the courage to express fully my love and admiration for Tina, I hope in some way she knows.
Dad
My Dad died today. He was 92 a month ago. He was quite a man. Born at the end of the great depression, he grew up in a house of little means, with 6 brothers and sisters. Dealt with the loss of a sister and father at a young age. Became head of household and a prime provider for his family at an early age. Spent time in the army during WWII and witnessed some of the most appalling behaviors man has ever done. Sat with a young wife as she suffered through the rigors of an Iron Lung and polio. Certainly these life experiences had a profound effect.
Despite the hardships of life, my Dad developed an incredible array of skills and talents. He had a special ability to engineer things. He was a very talented mechanic with an understanding of how things work. He created art work that was amazing given his total lack of training. Always a hard working man with a sense of family commitment. Dad was comfortable with all manner of machinery, plants, animals and the outdoors in general. He could build a rabbit hutch, wire a factory, repair any machine, design machinery, paint the daintiest flowers on fine china, raise beautiful flowers, pour concrete, and so much more.
Dad always expected my brothers and I to learn these things by way of helping. Some of my least favorite tasks were learning to do all manner of things. Years later, I am so thankful that Dad "made" me help and learn. My brothers and I can do so many things because Dad had us help and unknowingly learn.
Dad, like all of us, had faults. He had a propensity to be negative as a first reaction. He could be equally self centered and thoughtful. Despite his faults, he was faithful and kind. He had difficulty expressing affection, yet was always there when needed. I know that he held within him, a great amount of love and pride for his 3 sons. Despite ups and downs in his life, he maintained his love for my Mom for 73 years, knowing that she was his strength.
I have so many many wonderful memories of times on Family Vacations, doing projects with just Dad and I, marveling at his ingenuity, walking in the woods and tinkering with mechanical things. The exposure to so many places and things that Dad made available was amazing. I have a large amount of memorabilia that will forever keep him near to me.
My Dad and I did not always see things the same. I will fault him for that because he taught me to think. I will credit him for making me the man I am today. In his own way, he taught me what to do and what not to do. He helped me shape my values. He instilled a work ethic, an honesty and a never give up attitude that I hold dear to me. He taught me how to be a good father and husband, both by his actions and inaction. He was and always will be my Hero. I will Love and miss Dad for the rest of my life. Rest in peace Dad.
Despite the hardships of life, my Dad developed an incredible array of skills and talents. He had a special ability to engineer things. He was a very talented mechanic with an understanding of how things work. He created art work that was amazing given his total lack of training. Always a hard working man with a sense of family commitment. Dad was comfortable with all manner of machinery, plants, animals and the outdoors in general. He could build a rabbit hutch, wire a factory, repair any machine, design machinery, paint the daintiest flowers on fine china, raise beautiful flowers, pour concrete, and so much more.
Dad always expected my brothers and I to learn these things by way of helping. Some of my least favorite tasks were learning to do all manner of things. Years later, I am so thankful that Dad "made" me help and learn. My brothers and I can do so many things because Dad had us help and unknowingly learn.
Dad, like all of us, had faults. He had a propensity to be negative as a first reaction. He could be equally self centered and thoughtful. Despite his faults, he was faithful and kind. He had difficulty expressing affection, yet was always there when needed. I know that he held within him, a great amount of love and pride for his 3 sons. Despite ups and downs in his life, he maintained his love for my Mom for 73 years, knowing that she was his strength.
I have so many many wonderful memories of times on Family Vacations, doing projects with just Dad and I, marveling at his ingenuity, walking in the woods and tinkering with mechanical things. The exposure to so many places and things that Dad made available was amazing. I have a large amount of memorabilia that will forever keep him near to me.
My Dad and I did not always see things the same. I will fault him for that because he taught me to think. I will credit him for making me the man I am today. In his own way, he taught me what to do and what not to do. He helped me shape my values. He instilled a work ethic, an honesty and a never give up attitude that I hold dear to me. He taught me how to be a good father and husband, both by his actions and inaction. He was and always will be my Hero. I will Love and miss Dad for the rest of my life. Rest in peace Dad.
Monday, February 26, 2018
Again
Again, another shooting. Again, in a school by another young, troubled person. Again, hotly contested debate about how to stop such incidents. Young people have started a movement to eliminate / curtail gun sales. Particularly those termed Assault. Potentially this movement may take roots and lead to some changes in gun ownership. What it will likely not create is less acts of violence by people determined to create havoc. Persons with a demented need to wreck havoc on innocent people will most certainly find a way to do so. If automatic weapons are not available, then other means will continue to be used.
We have witnessed acts of this nature in ever increasing instances. Cars, explosives, blade weapons and more besides guns have been used. Most occurrences are attributed to deranged individuals rather than well planned instances of terrorism. The nature of these attacks appear to have nothing in common beyond individual detachment to reality. Arguments are made for increased background checks or increasing legal age for purchasing certain weapons. Criminal leaning individuals will undoubtedly continue to have disregard for laws and therefore more laws will have little effect.
In the grand scheme of things, gun violence is noticeably less than many other causes of death. The fact that some occurrences have happened at schools seems to have brought guns to the forefront of news today, again. Always in the past, some new hot topic has come up and the noise about gun control has died quietly. Interestingly, more frequent causes of premature death have not created the same furor in the consciousness of society. Automobiles, drugs, disease,alcohol and other causes are far more reaching than guns as a cause of early death. Why not similar outrage and concern for control?
Could there be some connection to Movies and Video Games and the potential for reduced sensitivity to violence? Could be. Why not restrict the availability of those. How about distracted driving? Auto makers continue to make it easier to use electronic devices in the modern automobile. Lets legislate the return of driving without electronic distractions. We have attempted to legislate our way out of the drug epidemic, without success. We have laws against driving under the influence of alcohol, yet, alcohol continues to be a leading cause of automobile accidents. So, that's working well? Now, personally, I have no sympathy for drug users and alcohol related problems because those are choices made by those individuals. I do feel sorry for those individuals harmed or killed by users of drugs and alcohol.
While untimely death or maiming is unfortunate and heart breaking, I see no way that we can legislate our way away from the reality that these problems will continue. And continue with greater frequency. Society is becoming more narcissistic every year. Concern for fellow man only happens when some unbelievable act of violence happens. Then we offer prayers and condolences and continue with our life. Permanent change seems only a dream we have. Actual ability of our society to change is most likely not happening until an actual global event that requires a new way of thinking. I am comfortable that I will not see that happen in my lifetime and hope that future generations will rise to the challenge. I feel certain that the necessary change will not come from government, but rather by grass roots groups and individuals. A revolution if you will. Action sparked by a genuine concern for humanity rather than driven by greed.
We have witnessed acts of this nature in ever increasing instances. Cars, explosives, blade weapons and more besides guns have been used. Most occurrences are attributed to deranged individuals rather than well planned instances of terrorism. The nature of these attacks appear to have nothing in common beyond individual detachment to reality. Arguments are made for increased background checks or increasing legal age for purchasing certain weapons. Criminal leaning individuals will undoubtedly continue to have disregard for laws and therefore more laws will have little effect.
In the grand scheme of things, gun violence is noticeably less than many other causes of death. The fact that some occurrences have happened at schools seems to have brought guns to the forefront of news today, again. Always in the past, some new hot topic has come up and the noise about gun control has died quietly. Interestingly, more frequent causes of premature death have not created the same furor in the consciousness of society. Automobiles, drugs, disease,alcohol and other causes are far more reaching than guns as a cause of early death. Why not similar outrage and concern for control?
Could there be some connection to Movies and Video Games and the potential for reduced sensitivity to violence? Could be. Why not restrict the availability of those. How about distracted driving? Auto makers continue to make it easier to use electronic devices in the modern automobile. Lets legislate the return of driving without electronic distractions. We have attempted to legislate our way out of the drug epidemic, without success. We have laws against driving under the influence of alcohol, yet, alcohol continues to be a leading cause of automobile accidents. So, that's working well? Now, personally, I have no sympathy for drug users and alcohol related problems because those are choices made by those individuals. I do feel sorry for those individuals harmed or killed by users of drugs and alcohol.
While untimely death or maiming is unfortunate and heart breaking, I see no way that we can legislate our way away from the reality that these problems will continue. And continue with greater frequency. Society is becoming more narcissistic every year. Concern for fellow man only happens when some unbelievable act of violence happens. Then we offer prayers and condolences and continue with our life. Permanent change seems only a dream we have. Actual ability of our society to change is most likely not happening until an actual global event that requires a new way of thinking. I am comfortable that I will not see that happen in my lifetime and hope that future generations will rise to the challenge. I feel certain that the necessary change will not come from government, but rather by grass roots groups and individuals. A revolution if you will. Action sparked by a genuine concern for humanity rather than driven by greed.
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
good
Haven't been feeling well lately. Checking into Lutheran Hospital next Monday for some Heart Repairs.
Have neglected posting here lately. Not much new. I do follow the news closely because I am intrigued by the crap show that is our political landscape. I am astonished that ANYONE could possibly believe that our current administration is affecting any kind of positive change. Our President is a continuous gold mine of ineffectual, childish stunts akin to the best 2nd grade mentality I have witnessed. His continuous need for being the center of attraction has created some of the most divisive mentality.
In case you haven't figured it out yet, I am certainly no fan of our current political system. When I see what is or isn't happening, I just want to scream.
Am looking forward to Fall. I love the cool crisp air that accompanies this time of year. The colors of the outdoors are beautiful as we progress through this season. This is how life should be, one beautiful day after another. Health problems, apparently, make you more aware of the good things and make other difficulties less important. Got a lot of good in my life.
Have neglected posting here lately. Not much new. I do follow the news closely because I am intrigued by the crap show that is our political landscape. I am astonished that ANYONE could possibly believe that our current administration is affecting any kind of positive change. Our President is a continuous gold mine of ineffectual, childish stunts akin to the best 2nd grade mentality I have witnessed. His continuous need for being the center of attraction has created some of the most divisive mentality.
In case you haven't figured it out yet, I am certainly no fan of our current political system. When I see what is or isn't happening, I just want to scream.
Am looking forward to Fall. I love the cool crisp air that accompanies this time of year. The colors of the outdoors are beautiful as we progress through this season. This is how life should be, one beautiful day after another. Health problems, apparently, make you more aware of the good things and make other difficulties less important. Got a lot of good in my life.
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
Shocking Results
Recently, I have been interested in some of these Senate and House investigative sessions. I am amazed at the waste of time and money that they are. Person after person that is called to appear before these committees blatantly refuses to answer questions. Admittedly, the questions are framed in a way to attempt to garner the answer that the particular questioner seeks. Often those sought after answers are to further a political agenda. So, I would ask. What earthly good is expected from these sessions? Why are these investigations not backed by some power to elicit answers or pay a penalty to have the truth known. Lets hold these people in contempt and toss their ass in jail until they decide to be forthcoming.
It is beyond my wildest dreams to think that Senators or Congresspersons could set aside their absurd political agendas in an effort to actually seek the truth. That is almost as absurd as thinking that persons in front of these committees would actually answer with any remote sense of the truth.I continue to believe that in most cases that someone refusing to answer a question is most likely not willing to have the truth known. I also find it strange when the common answer is "I do not recall", but, at times they can recite dates and times and great detail about happenings from some time gone by.
This whole process is suspect. These people are supposed to be intelligent and dedicated to the maintaining of our Country and the people of it. Such childish behavior. Such self serving and sneaky behavior. The whole group are pathological liars. When on the question asking side of the room, their pompous behavior is despicable. Yet, when on the answering side of the room, they become that arrogant, non-answering, poor memory ass that they showed such contempt for. AMAZING!
Here's my answer......a jury of common citizens with the power to incarcerate unwilling witnesses. Throw in a little shock therapy if it suits them. Shocking results to follow.
It is beyond my wildest dreams to think that Senators or Congresspersons could set aside their absurd political agendas in an effort to actually seek the truth. That is almost as absurd as thinking that persons in front of these committees would actually answer with any remote sense of the truth.I continue to believe that in most cases that someone refusing to answer a question is most likely not willing to have the truth known. I also find it strange when the common answer is "I do not recall", but, at times they can recite dates and times and great detail about happenings from some time gone by.
This whole process is suspect. These people are supposed to be intelligent and dedicated to the maintaining of our Country and the people of it. Such childish behavior. Such self serving and sneaky behavior. The whole group are pathological liars. When on the question asking side of the room, their pompous behavior is despicable. Yet, when on the answering side of the room, they become that arrogant, non-answering, poor memory ass that they showed such contempt for. AMAZING!
Here's my answer......a jury of common citizens with the power to incarcerate unwilling witnesses. Throw in a little shock therapy if it suits them. Shocking results to follow.
Monday, June 5, 2017
Dr.....again.
Had another Doctor visit recently. I have a new Cardiologist and I like him. He walked in the room and immediately said "I see your still fat." I wish I could be angry with him but I have always been capable of respecting the truth.
Good news is, I'm pretty sure he thinks I have at least 6 months left because he made me another appointment for 6 months from that visit!
Good news is, I'm pretty sure he thinks I have at least 6 months left because he made me another appointment for 6 months from that visit!
Habits
Have you ever thought about this?
When I get dressed, I put my right leg into my underwear first then my left (hopefully without falling down). Then I put my head into the opening on my TEE shirt then my left arm and then right. I always put my right leg into my pants first, my left sock on first and my right shoe on first. I put both shoes on then stand and put my right foot on the seat to tie it then my left. I put them up on the seat because I can no longer bend over long enough to tie shoes without running out of breath. If its cold outside, I put my left arm then my right arm into my sweatshirt before pulling it down over my head. Top it off with a "baseball" cap and I am good to go.
I repeat this without any changes. Creature of habit we are (spoken like Yoda).
When I get dressed, I put my right leg into my underwear first then my left (hopefully without falling down). Then I put my head into the opening on my TEE shirt then my left arm and then right. I always put my right leg into my pants first, my left sock on first and my right shoe on first. I put both shoes on then stand and put my right foot on the seat to tie it then my left. I put them up on the seat because I can no longer bend over long enough to tie shoes without running out of breath. If its cold outside, I put my left arm then my right arm into my sweatshirt before pulling it down over my head. Top it off with a "baseball" cap and I am good to go.
I repeat this without any changes. Creature of habit we are (spoken like Yoda).
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