oo dee la la

It's Your Move

2010-06-26T13:10:00.002-04:00

Last week end Sarah and Alan moved. I told them some time back I would help. Me and my Chevy truck. I expected it to be quite an experience. An under statement. basically, I have never moved. Now I know why.
I lived in the same house the first 17 years. I took a small valise, and joined the USAF. (Some move huh?) Three years later with the same valise I moved to a room in New Brunswick. When I married I took my clothes and moved to Wellington Place with my in laws. A year later I bought the house where I am writing this nonsense. I went three houses down the street. Moved all we owned by hand. I will never move.
I went to my daughter's house at 6:00 AM Sunday morning. We drove non stop to Wilmore Kentucky. Got there at five o'clock PM. A and S had the 16 foot Pensky almost loaded. We filled the back of the Chevy with boxes. Also the front seat of both trucks. A and S's car. I don't know how they figured it so close. Nothing left to pack, and no room to put it.
Monday morning after the Realtors walk through we left caravan style for Dayton Ohio. Alan and Sarah first, me in the middle, Mary driving the 16 footer. Me bringing up the rear. I had the address in my GPS, Mary had map quest, A and S had been there before. High hopes. Blue skies, sunny, all is well.
Some where in north Kentucky we hit a storm. rain, high winds lightning. It looked to me like a tornado sky. We got separated. Alan called me on my cell. I got back on track, but we never got together again. With the weather, road construction, it was every one for themselves.
I got to 3004 Martel drive first.Then Mary, and finally A and S. The real estate lady came right on time. We went to the office for the closing. Then back to 3004 to start unloading. Alan was lucky. He had three or four friends lined up to help. One of them actually showed up.
A and S had a good plan. We stopped to eat. Just kept unloading. Box after box, etc. I lasted until about nine PM. The rest of the crew went on til two in the morning.
Tuesday we put the finish on the unloading. Took the Pensky back, and headed for High Bridge NJ.
It was an experience I will remember for a long time. It was nice to spend so much time with my daughter Mary. We had lots of real talks. I got to know my great grand child Lucy. She is a real charmer. She calls me Grandpa Howie. I even got to hold Iris. Would I do it again? Yes of course. When they get settled, Cathy and I are going out to visit them.
When you think of it, Alan and Sarah did a bang up job on the planning. Moving into another state, to a house you don't even legally own yet. Packing, unpacking the trucks. Making sure we all had something to eat, a place to sleep. Even shower facilities. And do it all in a little over two days.
My hats off to the both of you. I can't tell you how much I admire, and love you both.

Still Walking

2010-01-11T15:13:00.002-05:00

I try to make six miles a day. Sometimes in two parts. My favorite spot is going through down town Highland Park. Passing the same way time and again you begin to see familiar faces. The first several times you pass, you make eye contact. Then comes a "Hi". Maybe later,"nice day". Some even stop for a small chat. I met a Spanish lady who stopped every time we met. Very friendly. I ran into her in Dunkin Donuts. We exchanged pleasantries. Don't even know her name. But we talked for ten minutes.

Several people are fixtures. I see them almost daily. One man is Ira. Nice enough man. Dressed fairly well. Stopped me many times to chat. Then asked me to loan him five dollars. I gave him two. I told him my name. He said he would repay me. Now he calls me Howie, and asks for a loan. I usually give him one or two.
Another fixture is an old Polish guy. I must have passed him scores of times. Never said boo. Never smiled. No eye contact, Then one day in a parking lot, he saw me getting into my truck. "Hey he said" in a thick accent. "Why you not walking" We chatted for about five minutes. Told me all about himself. Now when we meet we stop to chat.
Last week, I heard foot steps. Keeping the same pace as me. I thought, speed up or slow down. I like to do it alone. Then I heard a sweet feminine voice "Where you going" it said. I looked. She was young. I told her I was going to B B Big coffee shop. We went about six blocks together. She was a post grad student walking to the Cook College lab. What a nice visit. When I turned off we stopped for a while to finish our exchanges.
There are more stories. I'll save them. I wonder how long I'll have to go through Highland Park before I become a fixture?

I guess it's about time

2009-12-04T14:06:00.002-05:00

Boy where does the time go. Can't believe I haven't written since September. Actually this is just off the cuff, as I don't have any thing in particular in mind.
Cathy's sister "Snookie" passed away Nov. 7Th. Very sad. She had emphysema. A sixty year smoker. Cathy is a sixty year smoker. Can't quit. She has emphysema real bad. Her quality of life is going in the tank. No one can reach her. She is going to do it her way. To the bitter end. I have learned to cope. The serenity to endure the things I cannot change.
The other sad part of the wake and funeral. I picked up a germ. Been sick ever since. I've had this before. Sore throat one day, cough the next, sneezing,etc. Then comes the earache. Had it for days on end. My head is full. Ringing in my ears. When I speak, it's like I'm in a barrel. I am seeing my doctor today. Of course right after I made the appointment, I felt better.
I have joined a group of golfers. Three really neat guys. Was playing nearly every week day. Missed a few times because of feeling under the weather. Will get back again next week. Never thought I would enjoy cold weather golfing. Never thought I would enjoy being 80. Never thought I would like my computer. That's my problem. I don't think enough.
I shut the farm down the end of October. Very sad. I should have waited. The weather has been warm. Could have been still going up. Ah well. Other things to do. Looking forward to the "wrap" party at Carl's. Am thinking about a trip. Don't know where or when. It depends on how Cathy is. I may even go solo. But it would have to be with her blessings. Am not sure how she would feel. Requires more thinking.

Four Score

2009-09-28T15:58:00.002-04:00

Saturday, Sept 26Th we had a birthday party. To celebrate my 80Th. It was a smashing success to say the least. It's been a while since I had so many family members all together. I think we exceeded fifty five. Everyone was in a festive mood. The gang from Delaware brought appetizers. The catered food was great. The hall was decorated in my favorite color scheme. Red black and white. I wore a red shirt, white tie and black trousers. Cathy wore a red jacket with black pants.
The Spring Hill band supplied the music. It was grand. Carl sang mine and Michele's song, by Gilbert O Sullivan. Everyone told me how they liked the music. I love their songs from the sixties.
I really enjoyed the cake cutting and every one singing Happy Birthday. The real highlight was my children saying all the nice things. Carl told some stories about growing up. My daughter Mary was so eloquent. I loved to hear her telling how she felt. One lady said she wanted to cry. I was close myself. I knew Joe would just give me a hug. And how about Ron. Cathy's son in law. Wow, couldn't get any better.
Cathy and I opened all the cards when we got home. I am going to make a display with the poster and the cards.
I also got a photo album. It is named "Treasured Memories from Your Delaware Grandchildren". All the times they spent at our house when they were young. It's strange, I always worried, were they having a good time.
I will never forget the September 26Th, 2009 party. I really felt the love of everyone. I want to thank all who helped make it possible. I love you all.

Obamacare

2009-07-16T14:21:00.002-04:00

Hoo Boy. here we go again. We escaped Hillarycare, but we may not be so lucky this time. The 535 rascals in DC led by the Pres are attempting to turn our health care system over to the bureaucrats. You might have had some complaints when the AMA and HMO's and all the other alphabet soup,organizations ran it. Just wait, as I said Hoo Boy. Why do so many folks believe the Government can run health care? Isn't the Post Office, Amtrak, and all the enterprises they ran into the ground enough proof of their inability to be efficient, economical or effective? The best one of all is Off track Betting in NY. They actually are losing money. Here is a group who couldn't even run a bookie joint at a profit.
Before buying a car, wouldn't it behove the buyer to ask people who own one. I recall in my day the quality car was the Packard. For years their slogan was "Ask the man who owns one" Lets apply that logic. Why not ask the people in the UK. They opted for National Health Insurance in 1948. The NHI said the cost would never exceed the projection. The first year it went 52 million pounds higher than the projection.Canada went to NHI in 1984. They outlawed all private plans.Last month the Supreme court overturned it. Too late.The damage has been done.
Here are some actual quotes from Daily Mail "Kidney Cancer Patients Denied Drugs By NHS" This from the Times "Girl Three, Has Heart Operation Cancelled Three Times" This from the daily mail" Our Cancer Shame,We lag behind even after spending Billions" !,000 people in a small village waiting for a dentist. They have just one NHS practitioner. That's why children go to the hospital for teeth extractions.Here a goodie from the Daily Mail(Canada) "Why Ontario Keeps Sending Patients South" I think my geography is good enough to know who is south. Hoo Boy.This from the Acton Institute march 3rd 2008."Will Socialized Medicine in the US Kill Canadians?" They certainly know something.
Why do we think it will be different here? I think the first item in this law should read. The 535 rascals passing this bill will give up their medical and be enrolled in this new Utopian plan.( From the Picture "Fat Chance") It's only good for us, not for them.
Why should the feds be trusted to put our house in order, when it can't put it's own in order? I shudder to think that the government will decide whether someone should live or die because the treatment is expensive. Will we become tolerant for euthanasia as is our acceptance of abortion? I don't think government is the cause of all problems, but I know they are not the solution to all of them.Positively not this one

Why I don't run for office

2009-06-01T15:33:00.002-04:00

The problems are mounting. I believe the best approach is to take them one at a time. I would start with the California deli ma. They are number one in job loses, have the largest state debt, rank near the top in crime. The population of 36,756,666 has a hefty per cent on government pay outs. The natural calamities have become a money pit for FEMA.
From the fires in Riverside County, the mud slides in Santa Barbara, to the political unrest of Haight Ashbury and all the quakes along the fault line. They can surely be considered a liability.
I have a solution. First we send our Government Purchasing crew to Mexico. They buy up all of Mexico's gold, silver, precious metals and all their petroleum. Plus all the rights to produce them. This will cost us about 30 trillion dollars. We will now have a pile of assets.
Second part of the plan is we have no intention of paying for any of these commodities. When they insist we meet our obligations, we go into the third part of the plan.
We offer them the state of California. The temptation would be so overwhelming, the Mexican Government would leap at the chance.
Now lets look at what we have rid ourselves of. First is the 55 electoral votes. No longer will a national election be given to the candidate who sucks up to them the most.
We lose Barbara Boxer and Diane Feinstein not to mention the" terminator". All future activist demonstrations in foreign countries will be reminded Jane Fonda, Barbara Streisand,Sean Penn George Clooney Sally field and that list is long, are no longer American citizens.
We also throw out 53 members of the House of Representatives. Whose voting record is what caused most of our problems to begin with
And one other benefit. This one can't even be measured. We give up Hollywood to Mexico. I'm sure they can come up with a better rating system. At least now everything that the motion picture industry of that town produces will be classified as a foreign film.
If you would like to go surfing or skiing, simply bring your passport.

Our March to Socialism

2009-05-19T16:44:00.002-04:00

When you look at the facts, you will understand how Obama was elected. The popular vote and the electoral college are slanted to help the liberal. The candidate who promises the citizenry the most always wins because of the way it's set up.
Let us take the United States and over lay a grid. Draw vertical lines one mile apart from top to bottom. Then repeat going horizontal, one mile apart. Now we have divided the country into tens of thousands of squares each one square mile in size.
Now looking at the election results we find that 80 % of the one square mile blocks voted against Obama. However the remaining 20% of the blocks contain the majority of the votes.
Lets call the 80%Er's Peters, and the 20%Er's Pauls Our beloved politicians long ago discovered That if you rob from Peter to pay Paul, Paul will always vote for you. And the system has been working for them since the 1930's.
However the method might contain a major flaw. Could it be that in time we will run out of Peters? Or will the Peters rise up and revolt? Looking again at the grid, I think you'll agree, the 80%Er's are the land owning, working middle class. The 20%Er's are the large urban areas, where the majority of the transfer of money ends up. This is not rocket science.
Looking at history, no empire has been able to stem the tide of socialism. And no socialistic empire has long survived.

Frugality

2009-03-28T18:39:00.002-04:00

I tried to teach all my children to be thrifty. By setting an example. I told everyone I was frugal,economical and penny wise. All I got was a reputation for being cheap. I think my attitude towards saving money began when I was quite young. My mother bought a bank made from a tree branch. Complete with the bark. She got it in Minnesota. They make a lot of stuff out of trees. Nine months of winter does that to folks. I took the top off the bank. I didn't want the coin slot. Just a place to put money. It probably held twenty dollars in coins. I put in only quarters. I loved to swim at the natatorium. The fee was twenty five cents. My goal through the winter was to have enough so I could swim every day during the summer. I did odd jobs for the neighbors. I even baby sat. I saved it all. In my little tree bark bank. I rode my bike to the "Nat". Swam all day, then peddled home. I knew that with out the quarters, it would be a long summer. I never had a problem denying myself stuff to put it in the bank. I still don't today. I think of that bank often. It made a big impression. I look at everything in life with that philosophy. If you don't put something in, there is nothing to take out. The morale. Do your children a favor. Give them a bank....made from a tree.....with the bark and all.

When does it end?

2009-02-05T12:30:00.003-05:00

Our 535 beloved congressmen are at it again. Doing what they do best. Trying to get re elected. Their plan is simple. Find out what the majority of the populous wants. Example. People want gun control. Fashion a bill, title it "gun control bill" Pass it, then shout hooray. Does it control guns? No. People want a balanced budget.Fashion a bill. Title it "balanced budget bill" Pass it, then shout hooray. Will it balance the budget? Not on your life.
Now, with their collective fingers to the public wind, they have deduced we the people would like a economic stimulation. Not a problem. Fashion a bill. Title it "The economic stimulus package. Pass it, then shout hooray. What will it stimulate? Certainly not the economy. However it does wonders to the size of the federal government. And boy will it fatten up our national debt.
When the 535 take their next break. (Soon) They will show up in their home districts. Smiling, beaming, shaking hands and proclaiming, "Well guys,We did it again , Don't forget me come next November."
I dint have that much income tax left to pay. I know my children, grand kids, great grands, etc. Will be paying for this all their lives. I Wonder if they will ever have a time to shout "Hooray"

Trying to keep in shape

2009-01-27T17:35:00.002-05:00

Reading Alex's blog I remembered some of my physical ailments. My right knee in a cast for six weeks when I was 17 years young, A broken arm at age 9. Now it seems I enjoy almost pain free existence. I'm up to walking six miles a day. I do get some discomfort in my knees, or my hips. And my asthma crops up for brief periods from time to time. However since I'm living in a smoke free house. (Cathy hasn't used in three weeks) I have noticed a decrease in those episodes.
The hike to the meeting at the church in the AM is 2.8 miles. I can do it in 55 minutes. Not really all that slow. I would tell you the MPH, but I'll let you do the math. I tried walking just for the sake of it. Not much happening. I do well if I have a destination. I use Omega three, and Clucosamine Sulfate. These are for joint health. I think they work.
I'm not even sure the AA part of the meeting is the attraction. I just like being with the members, and sharing about our lives. It is such a nice group of people. It's a big part of my social connection.Playing pool on Thursday night with six guys, talking and writing to my friends. Reading all the blogs, It keeps me sane.

A New Twist To The Gas Tank Robbery

2009-01-20T17:27:00.002-05:00

Got a call from Ron Johnson this AM.He had an appointment with the gas man from Suburban. They were to discuss the installation of a torpedo style tank. 300 gallons, heavy, big, hard to steal, etc. The installer said it's best to do it in the summer time, as a trench needs to be dug for the pipe lines. But he said the point is moot, as we found the original 100 gallon tank. WHAT? (I'm sure that was Ron's response) Here's what happened. Suburban issued a remove tank order for Cole Hill address. The driver got the wrong house and took my tank by mistake. Of course when I called them to report the missing tank, they did not put anything together. And everyone involved considered it stolen. So the Sher riff call, the Allstate insurance involvement, etc, etc. was for not. I sent the check back to the insurance company. All is back where it was.
Ron and I both expressed relief over the fact it was not a robbery.The gas companies fiasco is laughable, thievery is not funny. So all is well that ends well. And I apologize for all the evil thoughts I had of the up state locals.

Our national Pupose Is Kaput

2009-01-14T16:47:00.002-05:00

I think our biggest problem today is we can no longer solve our problems. Think of some dilemma we had a few years back. Is it gone? still there ?or is it worse? Think of this scenario. Ever walk into a pizza parlor, and stare at the huge stack of pizza boxes? Card board. Once was a tree. Dwell on the carbon foot print here. Logging, transport. grinding, chopping, pulping, making into card board. Printing, delivery. You get the idea. How long is it's useful life? Drop the pie in, take it home, slide the pie out, wham into the garbage. What a waste of energy and resources. How much carbon went in the atmosphere? Now what if the powers to be got an idea. Simple solution. Eliminate the box. Made it illegal to make, sell ,or transport a pizza box. Each customer would supply his own carrying devise. An insulated box. Use it, wash it. Have it ready for the next time. Yeah, go ahead and propose something like this. Try to imagine the repercussions. Might even have rioting in the street. You can't get the populace to make even the smallest of sacrifice for the common good. This is an allegory, but you can apply like solutions to any of our problems. The results keep coming up negative. Maybe I'm getting cynical. I hope you younger folks have better thoughts. I hope better ideas too.

The Missing Propane Tank From the Red House

2008-12-30T13:42:00.004-05:00

Got a call from Ron Johnson. He is my next door neighbor in Beaver Meadow. Asked me if I forgot to pay my gas bill. "No I said, were still on speaking terms". He said "better call 'em, ask 'em if they took your 100 gallon tank" I did. They said "Not us". Ron moaned "I'll be, someone stole your tank"" Must have been pretty big thieves, that sucker weighs 800 pounds."
Any how the tank is gone. All that's left is the pipes coming out of the house. Ron really feels bad. He took it kinda personal. Likes to think he's watching the place. I told him it's not any one's fault.
He filed a police report. I called my insurance company.I had heard I was in good hands.
Turns out maybe I am. I didn't hear any one say the check is in the mail. But they are working on it. The gas company will set up a new tank. Said just give us a call......and$950 bucks.
I got to thinking. I do have central heat. I might be entitled to a "torpedo". That's a real big tank that lays horizon ally. I will check that out with the gas people. Wonder how much it weighs? The two big guys will have to get some help to lift this one.
Any how that's life at the ""farm". I told Ron I would come up with the gas men. We will get this resolved. Not to worry. When we have visitors, the hot water will be flowing. See you in the spring.

Cathy's Progress

2008-12-13T13:02:00.002-05:00

We saw the cardiovascular surgeon. His name is Dr. Franco. Seems very nice. I would say about 40 ish. He had the report of the sonar. He told us right off, there is severe blockage in the carotid artery. Both sides. He made it quite sure, in his opinion there are only two alternatives.Open surgery to remove the plaque. Stenting, which is less invasive, and less effective. He strongly is on the side of the former.
He scheduled a CT. (computed tomography) Actually x rays, giving a three dimension image of the artery. Cathy had that done Friday. Dr Franco will review the results, and we will confer with him on the 22nd of Dec. At that time I'll write another episode.

Medical update

2008-12-09T15:07:00.002-05:00

Cathy saw`Dr. Kim yesterday. He had all the reports of the Doppler test on her circulatory system. There is some blockage. We have an appointment with the Cardiovascular surgeon on Wednesday. (tomorrow). I will update this blog at that time.

Our Florida Escapade

2008-12-04T12:08:00.002-05:00

Carl. Russ and myself went off to the south land for a few days. Played 102 holes of golf. Ate out every night at four star eateries. Stayed at a very nice motel. I think it was the Hampton's. Or maybe Fair fields. We always have a great time. The golf was out standing. Played a different course`each day. They both beat me on every round. They invented a game. It's called "beat the How man". They give me the forward tees, or a stroke, or a half stroke. They are writing a book. It's called "If you're losing. change the rules" It's like the song " some times I think I'm winning, but I'm losing again".
I like the expensive golf "country club" style courses. They take your clubs out of the car, put them on the cart, wipe them off at the end of the round. They usually expect a tip. I'm not used to that. In Jersey I play at Tara Greens. Cheap. The guy takes the money. He points to the first tee. You are strictly on your own.
We were in Orlando. That's Spanish for "tourist trap". I forgot to bring a golf hat. They were on sale at the pro shop for 49 dollars. We went to Wal Mart. I got one for 6 bucks.
But through it all we laugh. They say it adds to your life. I may have gotten a few more months on mine. I am looking forward to our next trip. I think were shooting for March. Maybe Carolina.

Closed the farm

2008-11-18T08:57:00.002-05:00

This week we shut the farm down for the winter. Cleaned the rooms, locked up and drained the water. Done it enough times that we do a pretty efficient job. I always wonder how long it will be before I recall something I forgot. I mentioned to Cathy, it came to me, that I took my gold chain off and left it on the dresser. She replied "I saw it and picked it up". Now I have to wait for the next thing I forgot.
I left with a feeling of sadness. I miss the place. I hope I will see it again very soon. I would love to be there when the snow covers everything, and the wind whistles by the house. That most of all reminds me of my youth in Iowa. Were you aware that I had a youth? Long time ago.

Going north at last

2008-11-10T16:37:00.002-05:00

Looks like we will be going up to the "farm" Tomorrow AM. Been trying to get up for a while .Cathy was sick all last week. Before that it was her Doctor appointment. Need to get up there soon or the house might freeze up. Talked to Ron Johnson. said there will be some snow. Cathy wanted to go to DE to be with Susie. But hated to see me go alone. Joe said he would come up with me but could only get Tuesday and Wednesday off. Not enough time. Cathy and I will stay for 4 or 5 days. Lots of things to do. Owning two houses can be a lot of work. Anne Marie called this morning. She said Susie might be worse than any one knows. I hope not. She will start Chemo soon. Went on radiation today. I don't know who is suffering the worst. Could be Cathy. She has one more test, then Doc Kim will tell us whats up.

Medical Update

2008-10-25T07:45:00.003-04:00

I guess it's a sign of age when your blog title is "Med. Update. My story will be brief. The exercise induced asthma is totally under control. I have one more cat scan than a follow up visit to Dr. Mickey. All is well.
Cathy is more complicated.Dr. Kim thinks there is a problem with blood flow. We have three test to find out where and why, and plan a program for a solution.She feels fine but has a total lack of energy.
The real snag is with her daughter Sue. She has been diagnosed with cancer. She has tumors somewhere at the center of the pelvic floor. They have been tested and labeled grade four. She begins chemo and radiation this week. Surgery is not an option. Needless to say this has my poor wife Cathy in a dither. I assure her I will be in her corner. Not a whole lot I can do. Hope for the best.

Medical Update

2008-10-25T07:45:00.000-04:00

Been a long time

2008-10-01T15:06:00.002-04:00

Summer is behind us, but I'm still hanging on. Been playing golf,tending to my up state garden, and still wearing short pants. We are planning on shutting down the "farm" the first week in Nov. Cathy has been doctoring, taking a lot of tests,etc. feeling somewhat better. Physically. Now for the mental and emotional. She has learned her daughter Susie has cancer. Needless to say this threw us all for a loop. We don't know much of the details yet. It is someplace in the reproductive system. That's all we have so far. They will keep us informed. I will pass it on. We leave for the farm tomorrow. Sorrow has once again paid us a visit. Life goes on.

Nothing like the Jersey shore

2008-08-02T16:21:00.002-04:00

Really had a neat time in Beach Haven. I told a friend from my Norwich meeting I played golf at Ocean County Golf. He comes from Tuckerton. He said from the ninth hole you can see his parents house. Small world. Was so good to see some of my grands. That would really be neat to do it again next year. We'll need two four people bikes. The best part was the talks I had with each of you. Michele and I are both fond of the same song. Carl is learning it. If he plays it at his next gig, I'll be there.

Still in the dark

2008-08-02T15:59:00.002-04:00

I'ts been going on two years, since I began having breathing problems. Been to several Docs (one a specialist). Have had many diagnosiots. A remedy for each one. None of which worked. Got a lot of help from family. Read a lot. Tried natural cures, drugs,etc. Kept records. Had two cat scans, on and on. Any how, the symptoms grew less and less. Stopped records because there was nothing to report. Every now and then, I get a tightness in my throat. I seem to be able to bring it on with heavy exercise. Certainly not a problem. If this was all I had at the onset, I would have done nothing. I spoke to Amy and Lisa. They thought perhaps I had COPD. I read up on that. I don't think so. Is it possible that what ever was going on cured itself?.Did my respiratory system find a new channel to my lungs? I'll guess with you. I have one more trip to the doc,will tell her to forget about it. I thank you all for your concern.

Fire, fire everywhere

2008-07-10T17:29:00.002-04:00

I began very early starting fires. I recall during summer vacation, when some one would ask"what should we do?" I would always say"lets go in the woods and build a fire". I was good at it. Talking kids into it I mean. But I could start a mean fire. I would come home with my brother Dick, both smelling like a smoked ham. Mom would say "who had the fire?" "not us Mom" We were good fire builders, but lousy liars. Now that I have acquired a modicum of sense, my fires are of the constructive sort. Incinerators to be specific. I have made several of them. I have the secret. A screen on the bottom. Supported by fire brick. Keeps the barrel from burning out. I may market it. At least to the people up state.Every one has one. They call them burn barrels. Which is what they do. Mine will last longer. Are we on to something here? Give me a comment.

Life up state NY

2008-06-24T10:07:00.002-04:00

Having a summer home is neat. I also have a regular home. Living at two locations gives a whole new slant to almost everything in your life. It's as if I have two different departments of existing. Some are similar, others quite unlike. I have a daily meeting in both. But they are not the same. I have projects, daily chores, shopping and all of the mundane minutia. However they take on a new meaning. Is it the place? Is it people? Its hard to describe. Even doing the same thing takes on a strange difference. I actually derive a sense of well being at both places. Some times when I leave NJ for up state, it;s hard to tell if I'm going home or leaving home. I think if I had to chose one or the other as a permanent dwelling, I would be saddened either way. Far too much to give up. I sometimes think I have the best of both. I love my two home existence. I wish you would all come to visit. At either home.

Howie the golf pro

2008-06-05T17:06:00.005-04:00

While upstate this last week, I had a unique experience. Jeffrey, our neighbors grandson came to me with a question. Rather sheepishly he said his grandfather told him to ask me if I would teach him how to play golf. He said his senior class was going on a golf outing to Apple creek Country Club. He wanted to have some experience. He' s 17 years old. Six foot plus. The nicest boy you could ever know. He looks slightly athletic. He said he played softball. I said he couldn't learn golf in three days, it would take at least a week.(private joke) Anyhow we commenced. I gave him a nine iron, some plastic balls, lesson one was under way. The stance, the grip, all of the basics. The rudiments of the swing, a short demo by me, go ahead hit the ball. Which he did. He's a natural. Set up a target, real golf balls. He does well. Off to the driving range. Tee up. Nine iron, seven, five, then the five wood. He does amazingly well. The golf pro walks by. I told him I'm helping the lad. He watches. Nice weight shift. Good swing, he'll do fine. Jeffrey is smiling. We went through the large bucket. At home I gave him the nine iron to keep. Plenty of balls, said to practice daily. Felt pretty good myself. Never dreamed he would take to it so fast. I saw him the day we left for home. He said he had been back to the range, and practiced every day. I really felt good about the whole episode. The up shoot, my own swing improved. Moral, if you want to learn something teach to another. I might be a better teacher than a golfer. Great experience.

One weekend in May

2008-05-27T06:11:00.008-04:00

I spent Memorial day W/E in New Paltz, NY. Working with some of my favorite people. My family. Carl and I drove up on Saturday morning, arriving at base camp at 9:00 AM. Well charged with Starbucks coffee, we dug right in. I lit both incinerators. Beth and Mike were busy when we came in. Gave us a run down on the plan, and a list of the goals. While the tasks might have dampened the spirits of lesser folks, not us. We are up to the job. Diane and KB entered, we had coffee. Later we were joined by Kerri. What a crew. We worked into the evening hours. Just made our 8:30 PM reservation for dinner. Everyone looked so neat and clean. I didn't recognize them. I knew Kerri by her green eyes. Sunday was more of the same. Three more unsuspecting volunteers showed up. I lost my job as fireman. Mark took over. Pete and M pushed the wheel barrow. We filled the dumpster. Tons and tons of stuff. Carl and Mike completed the privy. KB assembled the charcoal burner. Can't believe all the accomplishments. I arrived home tired, but happy. Carl and I had a great talk on the ride back. I learned a lot from my Memorial Day W/E. I love my family. Beth and Mike have wonderful friends. Kerri is a good photographer.

Whats going on with Howie?

2008-05-08T14:57:00.002-04:00

Hey life is pretty good. I'm struggling with my asthma, but has not detracted from my life style. The trip to the farm was good. My house watcher and gardener is landscaping the back yard. I played golf yesterday. Tonight is pool night. I sold seven frames for Mothers day. I filed for my Homestead rebate, and for my property tax relief. Things are rolling at a good clip.
I am writing to Alan about religious questions. He is really a scholar. I am learning. Of course I am a born again agnostic. But I love the subject. I have a host of things to ask him. I hope he doesn't get tired.
Today i had my first on line chat. I hooked up with Beth and Michele. I'm sure getting into this thing. I lost my cell phone on Sat. and thought the world was going to stop. (read the story). I realize how dependent I've become. My cell phone, Gps, and my lap top. I even tex message on occasion. I trying to learn how to get on line from a free wifi location. I want to take it with me when we travel. Happy Mothers Day to all.

Our trip to the farm

2008-05-02T13:48:00.002-04:00

I really wanted to post this up at the farm.I tried to get on line at the library in Norwich. No luck. The people are not allowed to look at your PC. Only to give you a sheet of insrtuctions.Which looked like quantum mechanics. Nothing would come up on my screen that resembled anything on the sheet. I'll talk to my tech support expert. We have the house in pretty good shape. Changed all the valves in the bath room. Did a water leak Spackle job in the kitchen. Small. Most of the work was on the bird feeders. We have a multitude of songsters. Never saw so many. Feeding them through the winter was the trick. Got the flower beds ready for the end of May planting. Peas and lettuce are coming up. Ron has made a path to where the two streams join. It looks like a park. Even have a spot to put a picnic table. I'll have to talk to Ron's benefactors. He may need a raise in pay. We'll be back right after Mothers Day.

Sweet Sixteen

2008-03-29T16:34:00.002-04:00

If you think that only folks can be "sweet sixteen". You're wrong. Organizations can also be sixteen years old. I belong to "the first light group" So named because we meet every morning at 7:30 AM. We are part of AA. The meeting was founded on St. Patricks day 1992. And every year we have a special occasion know as an anniversary. We hold what is known in the "program" as an "eatin meetin". Breakfast is served at 7:00 AM and we begin the AA meeting at 7:30. We pass out fliers to other groups. Giving the time, date etc. So we get quite a nice turnout. Also included in the flier is the name of the speaker and his length of time. This supposedly entices people to come. Either they know the person and want to hear his story, or they figure if the guy has a lot of time he might know something worth hearing. Now the point of this story. The group voted me to be the speaker. It was the highlight of my sojourn through the 29 years of my not taking a drink one day at a time. Telling ones story to your home group is really neat. Most of my friends have heard every thing about my life. But never all at the same time. Anyway, I loved the opportunity. I got a nice hand, lots of hugs, and scores of nice comments. I also got a lots of laughs. It's always a good sign. Being sober is good.

Wilmore Kentucky

2008-03-13T09:37:00.002-04:00

Cathy and I returned last night. We spent some time with Sarah,Alan, And Lucy. The stay was short but we packed it all in. Lucy is so pretty. And seems so happy. We went to Ramsey's for dinner. Sarah snuck out and paid the bill when I wasn't looking. We had such a wonderful time. I love to talk to my grandchildren. How did they get so smart? They make such great parents. Who taught them? I guess I have to give my off spring credit for that. Any way I'm grateful for all my descendants. Mostly because they don't take after me. Any how thanks to Sarah and Alan for being good hosts. Hope they invite us back.

Play with the hand you're dealt

2008-02-21T16:59:00.003-05:00

Myself, Joe, Carl, and Russell planned a golf outing to Palm coast Fla. Not realizing it was Presidents week-end,`and Daytona 500. Long story short we missed our flight. Four of us stood at the baggage counter in shock. Next flight too late. We only have five days. What to do. I told the others do what ever, I for one am not going home. I'll go some where solo if need be. They said we'll all go, but where? We decided in order to play golf it should be at least 50 degrees. Why don't we head south until it gets warm? Threw all our gear into my Chevy truck, and pointed that baby south. Got to Virginia, and we all let out a cheer. The thermometer on the rear view mirror read 50 degrees. Looked up a course on the GPS. Called for a tee time. Success! Played 18 holes. On to Williamsburg. We got a motel with adjoining rooms. Made a tee time for the next three days. Great place to be out of season. Cheap rates. Not crowded. What a time we had. Golf during the day. Cards at night. Played pool. Ate out every evening. We kidded, teased, played games, and most of all we laughed. I'ts hard to explain how the four of fit together. Were like the infield of a ball team. All different, but yet we play with the same goal in mind. We compete fiercely on the course. But congradulate the winners. {not quite as fiercely} I was proud of all of us. In the face of disappointment, we did not lose our cool. No finger pointing, no one engaged in the blame game. We missed the flight as a team. Make the best of it. We played the cards we were dealt. What a fine time we had. Now I just heard it rained in the Palm Coast. I guess we were just lucky. Can't wait to do it again

A Giant Victory

2008-02-04T11:42:00.000-05:00

Wow, what a game. I love when the under dog wins. Giants 17- Pats 14. I have witnessed the Big Blue win three Supers. All were nail biters. Sundays game was the most intense. That final drive will be remembered for years to come. I was on the phone with Carl. We call when the Giants have a success. Russ also calls from time to time. I even got a call from Delaware. I got all the NY papers so I can decorate the pool room for Thursday game. Nice pictures. I have been a fan since Y.A. Tittle. I figured any team that would have a bald headed quarter back, is my team. Now I have to buy a shirt with XLII champs. Love my Giants.

Somewhat less than well

2008-01-31T10:51:00.001-05:00

Cathy has not been feeling well for almost two weeks. At the onset we had a nurse look at her. The doctor sent in a script for an antibiotic. Her condition seems to go up and down. Never completely going away. We dealt with it. Then I came down with it. Not as bad, or as long. In fact today I'm reasonably well. So is Cathy. Maybe were both on the mend. We are both going to see the doctor. Our appointment is for the 12th. But not for any one to worry. We have weathered the storm. Enough. So glad to have Katherine's blog. Now I have another one to read. I look forward them all. Tonight is pool playing. I alerted all the players. Always a good time. Missed the morning meeting two days. Will attend tomorrow as we have a business meeting. All else is OK.

Give it away to keep it

2008-01-21T14:38:00.000-05:00

My friend Jim C. has been sober for 35 years. He lost both legs to diabetes. He gets around with prosthesis and a walker. Two weeks ago he fell and broke his hip. Being confined to his house has him real squirrely. Four guys and myself are going to see him this afternoon. We'll have a meeting at his place. He really needs one. That's a quote my his wife. He only has a few people from the past who knew him. Years ago he was a powerful voice in our area. I have not seen him for a while. I know he'll be glad to see us all. I'll come home feeling on top of the world. That's the effect one gets from giving of yourself. A few hours, a few words, hand shakes and a hug. Life is simple. I love mine.

Way Behind

2008-01-21T14:24:00.000-05:00

Just read every ones blog. Beth is the champ. Cathy has been feeling under the weather. We got a script from the doc over the phone for anti bio tics. Fluids, aspirin, and rest. I cook for her.Anything, just so it's soup and crackers. I like taking care of her. She does not like it. Wants to do it herself. She feels better today. Joe was here with a nurse. Checked her chest heart etc. Not the flu, just a very bad cold. Hope I don't catch it. I went all last year without getting sick.

From Whence the Name?

2008-01-07T18:21:00.000-05:00

Where did I first hear the phrase? I don't know. It just seemed to pop out. Art was the one who commented about it. I recall it went something like."what the heck does that mean". I darn sure would have told him. If only I knew. { notice I just said darn and heck} A real family blog. But I say oo dee la la, when something neat happens. Like making a good shot at pool. When the Giants score. When I see something extraordinary.
I never thought I'd say this, but I love my cell phone. With me all the time. Seldom miss a call. Call right back if I have a message. The other day, I spoke to my number one son. My number two son. And my favorite daughter Mary/ All within a span of 30 minutes. On my cell. That was a oo dee la la moment. Get the idea?

2008-01-04T12:16:00.000-05:00

In 1980 in thought I was`a rebel without a cause. Now I know I was a doof without a clue. Today I have a clue.

When your brakes fail, aim for something cheap.

2008-01-03T14:21:00.000-05:00

Who says no one looks out for grandpa? I just finished the week end at New Paltz. I used my 1998 Chevy Astro van. I was playing the part of Hydraulic Man. We jacked up a structure on M and B's place. had a great time.Used the van to haul material. Drove it all over the place. Then I left for the farm to return to Beaver Meadow. A good four hour trip. Next AM I pack up for my trip back to Jersey. I head for the Cole Hill road. My first stop is to Ron's house to say good bye. On the steepest part of the hill I brake to slow down. Something is wrong. The pedal goes to the floor. I don't slow down.My foot freezes. I'm picking up speed.Gad zooks, no brakes. I have feared this happening all my driving life.But for whatever reason,I have practiced this very event. I pretend I have no brakes and stop with the emergency. I depress it slowly with my left foot. My practice is paying off. The Chevy comes to a dead stop right in front of Rons. He comes out and in a minute or two he tells me the line is broken to the rear wheels. No fluid is left in the reservoir. If the line was going to break, it couldn't have found a better time. I returned home the next day. Safe and sound. With a new hydraulic line. My advise. Learn where the emergency brake is. Try to stop using it. When you're on a lonely road. When you're all alone. Never with Grandpa..........................The "G"

Just a little peek inside {that's all you want}

2008-01-03T13:54:00.000-05:00

Gosh Beth, I sure feel sorry for you getting "old". Some guy at the meeting this morning asked what year I was born. I told him 1929. He started laughing. I don't think he ever heard of that year. I am older than dirt. But it's better than the alternative.
Today is pool day. Five of my friends will come over at seven. We play til eleven. We swear, tease each other, tell stories, laugh a lot, and if things go right even shoot pool. I recall playing at New Paltz. Mike and Beth beat me at eight ball. Mike is very good. I'm not too bad either. Beth looked pretty.
Pool is my night for male bonding. My meeting in the morning is my social bonding. Friends are important to me. But it is my family that gives me my foundation.
I was in a blue mood this morning. Ran a bunch of errands in my new truck. That made me feel .0001% better. At home I found my son waiting for me. We talked at some length. Just about guy stuff. I felt 50% now. When he left upon checking my e-mail there was a lovely letter from my daughter Mary. I read it a dozen times. I'm now101%. I answered. Life is good. I worry too much. When I start thinking I'm in enemy territory.
You're peeking too much......................................................The "G"

Golf on my mind

2007-12-28T16:10:00.000-05:00

We are in the planning stage for a trip to South Carolina. With three of my really favorite people. My two sons and Russell. We will leave on the 15Th of Feb. For four or five days. I would like to make it longer.That's all the time they can take off. I often think I should be playing with other retired guys. But I wouldn't enjoy it as much. Of all the golfers I played with through the years most are no longer with us, or stopped playing. Or maybe not playing with me. So all my golfing buddies are younger than I.{or should that be me}.
I went to Tara Greens today. Played 12 holes. Alone. It was 45 degrees. Not bad. Still hitting the ball quite well. Trying to remember what I was doing in Florida. Had my "A" game going.
I am hoping Mark and Pat will write in the "S" Stories.

The first from Howie

2007-12-26T15:47:00.000-05:00

Christmas has come and gone. What a wonderful time it was. The eve was at our house. Good food, fun and my family. Not to mention the neat gifts. Thanks to all. Everyone pitched in to help Cath clean up. I feel guilty cause she does so much. I've told her many times of ways to make it easier, to no avail. I think she loves it.

Christmas day it was off to DE. My second celebration. Another place, family, food, fun and more gifts. Different, but as good as I could ask for. I enjoy the secret Santa. We start with the youngest. Each recipient stands in the center to meet their "Santa" and the surprise gift. Being the oldest I'm last. Got nice golf things. It's the highlight of the day in DE. Some laughed, a few cried. I have two families. How lucky can you get?

In my old drinking days, after a holiday, I always got depressed. I would have this over whelming feeling the party's over. Now events don't seem to end. Just new happenings start. I'm in a good mood. More later