Happy Veterans Day

I have days that will never leave my mind. When I first fell in love in high school, when my kids were born, when my dad died, and when I retired from the military.  Thinking of all my friends and loved ones who have gone before me let’s remember what Veterans Day is all about.  It is not just a holiday but it is a time to not only thank a vet for what he did, but to think of those who made the ultimate sacrifice and will not be coming home to be with families.   It was originally established to honor Americans who had served in World War 1, but today it honors vets of all wars for their patriotism and williness to serve our country.

What use to be called Armistice day is now considered Veterans Day.  It started in 1919 by President Wilson to mark the end of the “war to meet all wars” It was considered a legal holiday in 1938.  There was some confusion weather it would be observed on a Monday or its original day of November 11, but in 1975 President Ford signed Public Law 94-97 stating it would be observed on Nov 11. All branches of the service, all men and women who served are honored! 

I am sure each one of us know a Vet, whether it be a family member ,coworker ,or friend, but they all should be thanked and given a thumbs up!  Vets are in all walks of life from CEOs  of large companies to homeless folks but each one of these folks can probably tell you of a sacrifice they had to endure.  Flags will be at half staffed there will be parades, ceremonies and such but one thing for sure.   These folks deserve a lot more than a day of thanks!  Some gave all some gave their lives!  My hats off to all vets weather you stayed in for only a few years to all those who retired, you made a difference.  Be proud of your accomplishments, you deserve this day!  Until next time

Happy Birthday USMC!

Ok so it is November 10^th 2011 just another beautiful fall day.  Leaves are turning, it is getting colder and we are getting ready for winter.  Just another day to some but to some very special folks this is the second most important day in the year besides Christmas.  That’s what I was led to believe anyway.

What is it?  It is the United States Marine Corp birthday.  To thousands of folks it represents the anniversary of the toughest fighting force in the world.  In my opinion if Chuck Norris wanted to be any tougher he would have joined the Marine Corp. He is an honorary Marine but not the real thing. He was though in the Air Force!  Just sayin.  Anyway,   I have been around the Marine Corp up bringing all my life.  My father was a Marine. He loved the Marine Corp so much he got married on the Marine Corp Birthday; OK he wanted a day off. I learned the Marine Corp hymn before I learned my alphabet.  I have several friends who were Marines and friends whose fathers were Marines. I grew up with a lot of folks associated with the Corp that is why they were so damn tough, Joanne even plays a good round if golf! Anyway, I remember liking this girl in High School. She was smart, very cute, and boy I was head over heels for her.  Her dad was a Marine Colonel and tough as nails and he scared me enough that I walked a fine line. He reminded me of Clint Eastwood in the Movie Hamburger Hill.  It did not help for my dad to say things like he knows more ways to kill you then you know how to die and things of that nature. 

There is no such thing as an ex-Marine.  Sure they have a retirement but you are always a Marine!  Think I’m wrong just ask one of them.  Some are not as lean or not as mean but their still a fighting machine!

They had humble beginnings that started in a little bar in Philadelphia PA called Tuns  tavern.  You can say the Marines started drinking cold beer and having an opportunity to serve their country Yep that pretty much sums it up.  The Marines are part of the Navy Department, if you ask a Marine they will tell you it’s the Men’s Department of the Navy LOL, anyway  They started as a protection force in the Revolutionary War and they have been protecting us ever sense.  Thanks to all the US Marines past and present. Semper FI, Happy Birthday and God Bless.  Have a great day! Until Next time!

My Dad

Well I changed my flag this morning.  I always fly the American Flag and sometimes the Air Force and Delaware flag but today I changed the Delaware flag with a Marine Corp flag.  May sound crazy for a retired Air Force Vet to be flying the Marine Corp Flag but I have done it for years and hope to do it for years more.  I fly it from October 28-November 12^th

Why would I do this?  Simple, it is in honor of my father.  He would have been 82 today and I sure miss him.  He was one tough son of a gun and held close his association with the Marine Corp.  I fly this flag until November 12^th which is in honor of Veterans Day. 

I was thinking what made my dad so special.  He was not a millionaire, did not run or own a big company, actually he was just a normal guy who tried to make ends meet, and take care of business every day.  He was though a Untied States Marine.  He never talked about what he did or places we went.  He was just pretty quiet about it and he felt it was just his job. He taught me some cool things and his teachings of life have been more apparent since I have gotten older.  He taught me to take care of your mom.  He uses to drive 26 hours and spend his vacation doing things to help her in Texas. I still try and take care of mine but I think it is the other way around.  She is taking care of me.  He taught me that you are supposed to go to work every day and unless you’re dead you try and work.  He taught me to help others and be responsible.  He did not have classes as such but I remember the day he had his heart attack that he was helping someone else get out of a ditch after a snowstorm.  I think this country would be better off if we tried this one.  He went to work feeling bad because that is how he was.  He finally had enough I guess when he collapsed on the Post office floor.  He got up and drove himself to the hospital. He taught me how to treat women but I guess I must have been sleeping through this one since I got divorced twice!  Anyway, what a great guy he was, what a proud organization he was in.  I know kids of today do not listen or we as parents don’t think they listen but I think they watch and learn by example.  So I guess what I am saying is Lead by example, help others and try everyday to be the best.  My dad was!  So in a nutshell Happy Birthday dad, you are missed and certainly not forgotten.  Until Next time!

Friends

    Have you ever wondered about your friends list on facebook?  I mean really look at it and see who you have and who you don’t on your list.  I did this recently and realized after getting rid of about 900 people I looked who was left. 

     Over 1000 people I consider friends of mine or have something in common with me to let them be on my friends list.  A lot were military, High school, some acquaintances I have met through the years but I laughed when I looked at my revised list.  Yes for some reason or not there are over 1000 people who have touched my life one way or the other.  I refer back to my high school friends a lot and it is truly an honor to know each one of them.  I think of Lori, TB, Kelly, Mendy and the list goes on and on, what a great group

      I look at some of the names and remember why I considered them my friend to begin with.  Weather they have been in a foreign country with me, doing silly stuff, or in a close call these are people who have touched my life in one way or the other. They stick by you when you need support, are there during your triumphs and defeats and kick you in the backside when you need it the most.  Yes these are friends!  Sure we have family as members but let’s face it, they have touched your lives either good or bad.  I look at my cousins (Not in a creepy way) and remember all the good times we had when I visited in the summers.  I have shared laughs, cries and secrets with my friends and it is amazing to me how we cannot see each other for years and when we do pick up where we left off. 

     Definition of a friend is a person you know, like, trust, or an acquaintance, one who is allied in a struggle or cause.  I certainly know all 1000 friends, trust them and certainly like them, if I didn’t they would not be on my friends list.  Until next time!

    

Folks who make a difference!

I am here to tell you I saw some things this weekend that made me smile and I know that sometimes this world seems screwed up but you know there are folks out there giving back to their community, helping others and making this screwed up world a much better place to live in each day!  My hats off to all who participated and volunteered their energy, and drive to make this a fantastic weekend!

 Words cannot describe how proud I was to pick up a set of (borrowed) golf clubs to play in an event that helps so many people!  I am sore as hell but am so looking forward  to doing this again next year!  I paid for cigars I will never smoke, Hawaiian leis I will never throw away and memories I will remember and laugh at for years!  I feel bad for Carol as she had to put up with Rick, Diane and I but what a great lady!  Carmon my hats off to you!  I hope to do better next year!

We look at leaders in different ways, some are the strong dictator type, some are the strong outspoken type and some are the quite, soft spoken folks who go thru life making a difference each day!  Thanks Dave, Jane, and the many others who made this a weekend I will never forget!  The only comment or complaint I have is why in the hell did I not do this sooner?  I looked around the room after the event and there were some serious golfers, some who never picked up a club and others who could have cared less either way but everyone in that room had one thing in common!  As a friend of mine said “a little patch of land on smoke town road we call Gar-Field  high school”!  Thank you for all who made this weekend a wonderful experience I look forward to!  I know one thing; my first weekend in October 2012 is taken!  Until next time!

what makes us tick?

Ever wonder what makes you tick?  I mean what gives you the drive and ambition to do things that other people just dream of doing?  Some people slack while others have drive, it is crazy!  I think the most part is we are direct reflections of our family and some friends!  Case in point!  I have learned how to act and how not to act by watching my family!  I have had some friends that have been knocked down a few times only to get through it and shine like hell!  What gives us this inner drive? 

 Different cultures act different and what is important to some may not be important to others.  I grew up in a pretty conservative family.  My dad worked, my mom worked, and when we kids were old enough to work we got a job and worked.  I came from a traditional home and my parents stayed married until my dad passed away in 1987.  My grandparents were tough but I enjoyed being with them.  My dad use to travel to Texas from Virginia every year only to take care of his mom and help her around her house.  I take care of my mom now.  No it is not the loser man who still lives with his mom thing, it is just something you do is take care of your mom.  I see so much disrespect and problems in families now a day!  I see a lot of kids being taken care of by their grandparents for one reason or the other.  I see parents wanting to be more of a friend then parents and the kids struggle.  There are not too many families left that seem normal to me! 

I know one family that I think is an awesome example of how it should be!  Both parents work, they also work together to raise their three kids.  Kids seem normal and one is in her first year of college.  They have a nice house and they take vacations as a family!  This does not seem like the norm and it certainly was not the norm in my house but what an awesome way to grow up!  OH Well, wonder why there are so many problems in this world?  Look at the parents!  It starts there!  Until next time!

My thoughts!

I look at things different than most people I guess!  I have come to the conclusion that some things in life are not going to change, my values are going to stay with me forever and I am not going to try and pretend I like things or people when I don’t.  I don’t like the fact that my boss is in his mid 20s, the country seems to be going in the crapper, and some of the things that our forefathers and folks before us taught us have gone to the wayside.  I think the two smartest men in the world were my father and Uncle Dick!  Uncle Dick lived in Texarkana and he was very simple as he did not need all the glamour and flair in life as one of my other Uncles did.  Dick was one of the richest men I ever met because he had three things that no one could take away from him, his family loved him, he had his faith, and he had me as a nephew!  LOL, he called me Sarge, and did until the day he passed!  I sure miss him! He uses to show me his tattoo he got while in the Navy and he told me if I ever got one he would kick my butt.  To this day I have never had one!  Both he and my father taught me some pretty cool stuff!  They taught me that money does not buy happiness. Taught me to respect others and my dad taught me to never let them see you sweat!  That advice has helped me in the past!  I believe in working hard, if you’re not dead you work.  I believe that if someone hurts a child they should be shot!  No not sent to prison, not sent to counseling, just shot! I believe that you should not steal from someone you should get off your butt and earn what you have.  I look around sometimes and shake my head!  It is crazy how people are up in arms about everything and we as a society need to chill out and relax!  That is funny coming from me because I have been told I do not know how to relax because I am always thinking or moving!  I figure I can sleep when I am dead!  LOL.  Oh well enough pissing people off, until next time! 

I'm pissed off!

OK I’m pissed off!  What is this country coming too?  I don’t care if the Supreme Court thinks it is OK to protest at military funerals I do not!  Being a Veteran this hits home! Why in the hell does something think they have the right to protest a person’s funeral that gave him or her right to protest in the first place?  What is happening to our amendments to the constitution and the simple fact it is just wrong to protest at a funeral!  You want to protest, do it in your yard, in front of the White House, in a legitimate forum but not at a funeral!  I have the right to bear arms (2^nd amendment) but I do not have the right to shoot a bullet in someone’s head that pissed me off or shoot these protestors!  It is common sense to me!  The values of our forefathers and the way many of us have been grown up has gone by the way side!  We have taken God and the ten commandments out of the court houses, not allowed to say the pledge of allegiance in schools anymore!  Enough is enough.  We have even gone as far as to not invite Firemen, policeman, EMTs that tried to save lives on Sept 11 not go to services honoring those who fell.  Yep I’m pissed!  I watch news every day only to see our country going down in the crapper because he are losing our values, morals, and common sense.  I am very close in saying our president and the people we voted in are an embarrassment to this country!  I mean who waves in a group photo???  Anyway I hope when these people come to protest at funerals one of two things will happen!  They will get hit by lighting or their butts kicked by a fellow vet!  I would love to take a swing at them!  Until Next time!

Privacy is not private

I have been seeing a lot lately about people wanting to protect their privacy!  Privacy is a good thing but what I have learned lately is if you want privacy you will not find it on the internet!  I see a lot of things lately on face book about the changes and how everyone can see everything!  It was mentioned to me (Thanks Bill) that whatever is posted is pretty much general knowledge to everyone who wants to view it!  It really does not matter what your privacy or security settings are!  I thought I was a relatively private person.  Did not go out much; throw my business out there like some people do and put pictures on line of every aspect of my life. No TB this was not directed at you about the pix! Some people think I am trying to hide things, no that’s not it at all, just don’t throw everything out there. LOL, anyway.  Why are we so intrigued with what other people are doing?  I will admit I like to keep up with hearing from my friends from my past, what they are doing; hearing from my distant family in Texas, but enough is enough.  I saw a comment today about what to post and what not to post, it was summed up by someone who pretty much said it all!  She said “it is better to have someone steal  from you than lie to you because you know what has been taken”.  Or don’t write anything you would not want your mom to read!  Those are good words to live by and something I have had to learn.  I have even been called secret squirrel because I remove stuff off my face book page within a day or so. I figured I put it out there and after the person read it I delete it.  We are all very innocent in this area but I am here to tell you there are some crazy people out there.  OH Well I think it is time to remove some stuff from the internet!  Its easy, if you don’t want your business out there don’t post it!  Until next time!

Whats in a name?

I see and hear a lot of people complaining about the name of the Washington Redskins football organization.  Some say it is offensive for the American Indians that a team is named the Redskins!  I personally feel different! The Supreme Court refused to hear the argument But for nearly 40 years, native American organizations have been working to end the use of Indian names and symbols as sports mascots in the US– at high schools, colleges, and among professional teams. If anyone should be sued, it should be Christopher Columbus he started it! You don’t see animal rights groups suing over the name Eagles, Panthers, Dolphins, etc.  I could see the American Cowboy suing over the name Cowboys because they aren’t playing to tough this year!  Anyway lets get over it! I keep hearing the term “Imitation is the first form of flattery”!  I for one think the American Indian were a pretty tough group of folks and am still pretty tough to this day!  I would be proud to have a team named after me!  No not mooners my GF friends!  LOL, anyway.  The Redskins name originated in Boston in 1933. There original team name was the Braves.  The team name was changed in honor of the teams first head coach William “Lone Star” Dietz who was a Native American.  The named was trademarked in 1967.  Some feel the name redskin is today and has historically been a disparaging racial epithet, if you think if it all walks of life and all cultures have nicknames that are not always positive!  It is a proud and honored name and was once used by Indians as required proof of Indian kill in order for bounty hunters to receive payment.  How crazy would it be to have the Redskins called the “Gibbs”, I mean who else should they name it after.  Until next time!

Thank a vet!

OK I’m pissed off!  What is this country coming too?  I don’t care if the Supreme Court thinks it is OK to protest at military funerals I do not!  Being a Veteran this hits home! Why in the hell does something think they have the right to protest a person’s funeral that gave him or her right to protest in the first place?  What is happening to our amendments to the constitution and the simple fact it is just wrong to protest at a funeral!  You want to protest, do it in your yard, in front of the White House, in a legitimate forum but not at a funeral!  I have the right to bear arms (2^nd amendment) but I do not have the right to shoot a bullet in someone’s head that pissed me off or shoot these protestors!  It is common sense to me!  The values of our forefathers and the way many of us have gone by the way side!  We have taken God and the ten commandments out of the court houses, not allowed to say the pledge of allegiance in schools anymore!  Enough is enough.  We have even gone as far as to not invite Firemen, policeman, EMTs that tried to save lives on Sept 11 not go to services honoring those who fell.  Yep I’m pissed!  I watch news every day only to see our country going down in the crapper because he are losing our values, morals, and common sense.  I am very close in saying our president and the people we voted in are an embarrassment to this country!  I mean who waves in a group photo???  Anyway I hope when these people come to protest at funerals one of two things will happen!  They will get hit by lighting or their butts kicked by a fellow vet!  I would love to take a swing at them!  Until Next time!

Give the kid a break!

Have not written a blog in a while and since I have been gone a lot has happened!  We on the East coast have survived an earthquake, hurricane, flooding, etc  all in one week!  Face book has changed, my relationship status has changed and the dogs are growing!  Don’t plan on writing as much as I was but I saw something on the news from Virginia that really disturbs me and I felt compelled to voice my opinion!

There is a kid that is a sophomore in a high school that decided to run around during halftime at one of the football games wearing a Banana costume.  What irritates me is the way the school district, principle etc are handling it by suspending the kid for 10 days and possible expulsion from his school for the whole year.  I simply cannot believe this is going on!  He was not drinking, was not on drugs, just a kid running around the field in a costume during halftime. It is said that this kid has a disability and he was not thinking right, hell what teenager thinks right all the time?  Peer pressure etc does enough to a kid!  I remember a kid who got in trouble for streaking in my school in the 70s.  He did not get suspended.  His principle made him run on the track team twice for his punishment!  The kid could run like the wind and he won both matches!  He grew up to be a pretty responsible adult but what would have happened if he had been suspended, had a criminal record and not been able to join the military?  There are enough problems for kids these days and let’s face it, we are all having problems, unemployment is at the highest rates in years, the economy stinks and the housing market is still in the red.  My opinion is give this kid a break!  One of the comments I saw was turn something negative into a positive!  If the kid has that much energy make him a mascot, give him community service etc but keep the kid in school.  There are enough dropouts and kids who want to quit, give the kid a break!  That’s all I’m sayin!  Until next time!

Our fallen

First and foremost it is important for us as Americans to grief over the 31 service members who lost their life fighting for something that is bigger than all of us! My hats off to the Navy Seals, interpretors, and others who were lost.  I see the bodies coming back everyday but we also cannot forget the thousands, yes thousands of us men and women who have fallen before them.  Granted you wont see the President at everyone of the dignified transfers but I can say each fallen service member is recieved at Dover AFB with dignity, respect, and gratitude.  I am glad the media was not here at Dover today. I hold a special place in my heart for all these fine service men and women, not just because I am a veteran but because I am an American. This war has efffected every state, every part of this country, and everyone of us.  I get irritated when our values, and our way of life get questioned by the elected officals who think we as the military are indepensable.   We owe a lot to our military folks!  They fight the tough battles so we as Americans can have our freedom.  I am not going to rant and rave on this but the one thing I guess I am trying to say is remember them all. Remember the folks who are in harms way everyday doing their jobs either at Dover or in Afganistan.  May God Bless our military! 

John Hopkins Hospital

I had the most amazing doctor’s appointment the other day. I am here to tell you the folks at John Hopkins hospital in Baltimore are pretty damn good! I learned more in one day then I did in a year.   Seems I may have to get some surgery soon and the doctors are thinking about titanium plates in my neck and my back. More test and time will tell.  It is odd what goes through your head when you get the initial news you need surgery. One would think you should think of family, friends, how it is going to affect your life.  Not me, I thought the craziest thing was (damn now if I go through a metal detector it will go off).  If I fly from any of the airports I hope my TSA Agent is named Helga.  Mendy would be funny! First person I thought of was Helen in England; I got scarred and smiled at the same time.  If you ever worked in the passenger terminal in England you smiled at that one!  I guess that is how I handle stress is with humor. Anyway, seems like all the pushing and pulling on my back have given way.   I have some kind of spinal compression that is causing pain in my legs, back, and neck and without the surgery may be crippled someday. I move slow now, have handicap plates and feel I am going downhill.  Thank God for pain pills. I was on face book the other day and commenting with my friends who in the past had sleigh rides down this awesome street (Kentucky Ave). I thought how cool would it be to even get on a sled.  I have not run in years and I want to start Kayaking.  I bought a treadmill and hope to start walking.  I guess you have to walk before you can run. It’s crazy what happens when you start getting middle age.  At least it will help me lose weight.  Until next time!

Driving

I was driving the other day on Route 1 in Delaware.  I was going a little over the speed limit and was passed by an idiot with New York Plates.  He proceeded to wave to me with one finger as he flew by.  I thought man what a butt hole.  I wondered where the heck he got his license and how the hell he even got one.  I also wondered where some of these idiots were from.  I think people in the northern states are the worse drivers.  New Your, New Jersey, Massachusetts, just to name a few. My ex use to say Virginia drivers were bad but they have nothing on New York drivers!  The only place worse I have ever seen was in Turkey.  Man what an experience! How come people who are driving slow or with a trailer feel they can drive in the left lane?  I thought the left lane was for passing or faster vehicles.  I started watching people as I drove, some were talking on the phone; some were putting on their makeup.  One guy was even eating a sandwich.  Could not believe it!  This was not even rush hour. All of them in the left lane!  I am amazed at some people when they are driving. I think sometimes “man I wish a cop was nearby”!  I guess some folks cannot pay attention long enough to get from point A to point B.  If that is the case they should not even get behind the wheel.  I guess it’s a good thing not to have a law about driving in the left lane, if so a lot of folks would get citations! Until next time!

Get a life!

Kids and Sports

There is nothing like going to a ball field in the summer watching baseball or soccer.  Problem I see is the parents!  It is crazy watching and listening to these good examples of sportsmanship, and morals.  How sad is it to see the umpire get abused everyday for his call making.  Think of it this way.  These guys (most of them) are volunteers to do this so your kids can play ball during the summer.  There was a playoff game in Delaware recently and cops had to be called because of fighting. It was kids and parents.  I think parents ought to sign something so they will keep their mouths shut while in the stands.  Granted root for your kid and support the team but this is supposed to be the time of their lives, for the record your kid is not the best one on the field and you need to remember that.  During practices I saw parents blast the coach because their kid was stuck out in the field and not pitching. Somebody has to be in the outfield and that is why they only have one pitcher.  I remember one time when my youngest kid was on a team, the coach got all the parents together and basically told us the ground rules of what we could say and what we could do.  I thought that was odd at the time but it was a help.  I am sure he did this because of past experiences.  He told us everyone was going to volunteer and help and no one was to yell at the umpire or other team.  It was actually refreshing when the other team would tell us what good sports we were.  Parents need to chill and relax.  I understand getting wrapped up in the game but don’t make an ass out of yourself and don’t be the bad example for your kid.  Also if your kid is sitting on the bench, don’t blame the coach!  Not all kids can play every second, and score every point! On a side note, way to go Japan on your victory yesterday, it was a well-played game all in all!  That was the example of sportsmanship! Until next time!!

Relationships!

I was thinking the other day about relationships.  I have failed at a few and did pretty well on the short term idea but what about the long term?  What happens when the flair is gone and you are living the day to day things we call life? When the kids are gone, pets died off, and the house is just the two of you.  I know people who have been married for 30 plus years and some who could not last a year.  I was reading the paper the other day about a couple who were married 65 years, I thought, wow that’s pretty awesome!  What were they thinking?  LOL.  I wrote the other day about the first 15 minutes, it was pretty funny to think about that since after the charm you get the everyday things.  My dad was taken from my mom at an early age.  They were married for 38 years.  She still misses him to this day.  I am reminded everyday that I have said I will never marry again.  Does not mean I will not have a person in my life who means the world to me.  I really like the fact I have someone now who lets me be me, does not try to change me and lets me do the stupid things I do that make up Ronnie Allen.  Appreciation is a big thing.  You have to learn to appreciate the good and the bad of someone who makes for a relationship.  Think about it, it is a lot better to go through life with someone you like than be miserable and alone.  Have you heard that variety is the spice of life?  Does not mean a different person everyday but having different things to share is AOK in my book!  Bad habits or good habits.  You cannot be 100 percent all the time, why try!  Last thing is tell your partner, spouse, and significant other, whatever the case may be that they are appreciated.  It goes a long way! Until next time!

advice two

I did a thing on advice I have learned from Kindergarten the other day but thought it would be cool to expand that a little.  I have certainly tried to use those things I have learned but I realized I had learned some more.  In the military I was always 15 minutes ahead for an appointment, class etc and never understood why.  I do that to this day.  It is simple, Promptness shows respect. I learned the most valuable thing that I could have in my life is my reputation!  It is not expensive or hard but it is simple, and it is one of the easiest things to lose.   Be fair, honest, trustworthy, and generous and don’t forget to respect other people and their things. Unless you are really smart, which I am far from it, I will never be able to read peoples mind so I will never know when someone is having a really bad day or what they are thinking.  You will never be able to win an argument with a cop.  Don’t try; trust me when I say it is not worth it.  It is OK to be wrong, just acknowledging the fact that you could be is a big step.  Remember there is only one person in this world that was perfect and he got crucified for it.  Another thing I realized is that if someone is only impressed in what you look like, what you drive or what you wear is not really worth impressing in the first place.  You can only last in the charm department for about 15 minutes, after that you better have something else!  Nuff said. Never compare yourself to others as they may be more screwed up than you are!  Speaking of that, Dysfunctional people in your life make you feel better.  It is OK to keep them around.  Sure it is good to look good but be yourself! Look at someone in the eye and have a firm handshake, not the Chuck Norris type handshake but firm.  Always look at someone in the eye when you talk to them.  Mental illness is as real as diabetes, arthritis or any other disease, and no more disgraceful. It’s the stigma that’s disgraceful. Get to know the people around you.  The last thing is your kids will get to pick your nursing home.  Be good to them!  They may not like it at the time but stay on them. Until Next time!

Advice

I am sure we have all read or seen the “All I really need to know I learned in Kindergarten” advise, but since I did not go to kindergarten, I did learn these things from living in Woodbridge Virginia and going to Gar-Field high school.  Funny how the things I learned as a kid and young adult I have used thought out the years.  I learned to share!  I share memories everyday with the peeps from back in the day and I try to share things with my family and friends. If I have it and you need it chances are it’s yours.  As life is not fair as we all know but I learned to play fair.  It did bite me in the butt a couple of times but I am a better man for it.  I always wash my hands before I eat and I do flush the toilet.  May not put the seat down all the time but if you hit the water, I bet it’s clean. LOL.  Pets, relationships, friends, plants, etc, they all die off, we all do so enjoy the precious moments you have with all of your friends, family and things.  You also can never have enough friends.  Believe it or not they help when your down and they pick you up in strange ways.  One of the things from the advice was Live a balanced life.  I am always trying to learn but learn some, think some, play some sleep some and whatever you do live some.  Working all the time and never stopping to smell the roses suck and no one should do it.  Money is important but it is not everything.  Take any one of those items and turning it around into sophisticated adult terms and apply it to your family life or your work or government or your world and it holds true and clear and firm. Think what a better world it would be if we all - the whole world - had cookies and milk at about 3 o'clock in the afternoon and then lay down with our blankets for a nap. Or, if all governments had as a basic policy to always put things back where they found them and to clean up their own mess.  Until Next time! 

Computers

Isn’t technology wonderful? I mean we have cell phones, high speed internet, Big TVs, fancy computers that test the speed of light.  But what happens when they don’t work?  We cuss get irritated, drink more who knows. Blood pressure goes off the charts, some people throw things, etc.  I was ready to shoot my dog!   We have become a society that is so dependent on the technology age we get pissed off if things don’t work.  We can’t do anything any longer without computers.  I lost cable and internet at my house and wondered what the hell I was going to do.  I can honestly say it pissed me off I could not get on face book, play mafia wars, or communicate with my peeps from my past. I could not write my blogs, keep up with everyone’s status, and watch my TV shows, not saying I am one that is glued to the TV but if I want to turn it on I should be able to! Thank God the electricity did not go off.  I would have lost my wine cooler!  LOL.  I work with a bunch of computers at my work.  I am so spoiled sometimes I hate when they move slow.  We rely so much on technology some of the newer generations don’t know how to exist with it.  I remember at work talking about manual procedures if the computers did not work, people thought I was from outer space.  They had never heard of such a thing.  Look at cars and how much it cost to fix them now a days.  I remember holding my four barrel together with a guitar string on my Monte Carlo.  Cars now a days have computers for everything.  Yeah life is good when things are going well but when they break down, God help us.  Well since my computer is down I might as well get stuff down around the house.  Until next time!

Casey Anthony Trial

I told myself I was not going to write a blog on this but come on enough is enough.  People are asking what is wrong with our justice system.  A woman is sent to trial for killing her child, the jury decides there is not enough evidence to prove she is guilty, and she goes free; instead the jury does find her guilty four different times of lying to police.  I saw a lot of emotions on face book but the one thing that stood out was simple.  Who was thinking of the rights of this child? She did not ask to get killed, she did not ask any of this.  I have not been following this trial but someday justice will be answered.  All in all I think the Anthony’s are a pretty screwed up family and something was covered up but maybe we will never know. I think the dad should have been on trial. The news said the family is dysfunctional, that is the one thing this proved without a shadow of a doubt.  This family is pretty screwed up!  One of the things I read was there was no winner in this case.  This is true because we as Americans still have a dead child and no one to be held accountable for their actions.  Casey Anthony who may be free of murder will not have a normal life from this day forward. At least she will have to fend for herself and not have three meals a day given to her until they decide her fate.  Her life is messed up and I am sure it will bite her in the butt.  She will have problems walking down the street as people from all over the world know her now.  I just can’t understand how so many lives have been changed by this.  If you think about it, the jurors will have this verdict haunt them either way it for the rest of their lives.  The families have basically been torn apart and it will take years, if any time to fix this damage.  It was crazy I started seeing the old faces of the OJ Simpson trial as commentators and analysis.  This was the O.J. Simpson trial of the new decade.  A lot of money was spent on this trial and for what?  No it is not the verdict any one thought it should be but in my opinion there is only one judge/juror and we all will have our day in court! So while we ponder this for the next few days think of this.  We may not agree with everything but this is the system we voted for.  Until Next time!  I’m off to turn my porch light on! RIP Caylee.

4th of July

What do you think our fore fathers were thinking?  Funny how back in 1776 our congress adopted the Declaration of Independence but today we cannot get our congress to agree on a budget or stay in session long enough during tough times. How cool was it for them to be basically starting a new nation, life.et c with independence? We celebrate this day with parades, fireworks, public servants giving speeches; cook outs just to name a few.  I know we take a lot for granted and some of us including me are a little spoiled but it isn’t it neat we can do things in this country that some only dream about.   This is a federal holiday and I am glad Lowes was open but all and all it is a great weekend and holiday.  I was thinking I know how some of them felt.  I have had a sense of independence within the last couple of years that is hard to beat.  I thank God every day for this new found freedom.  Our fore fathers had an idea for us and all and all it was a good one.  I was thinking of some of the names on the Declaration of Independence,   John Hancock, Sam Adams, Who by the way has a great beer named after him, Benjamin Franklin,  Thomas Jefferson, just to name a few.  So today when you are watching the fireworks, baseball games or parades, think what it was like for some of these guys.  Happy Fourth of July to all of you and as screwed up as this country can be what a great place to be from.  Until next time

Customer Service

Who knows what it is anymore?  I am sick to death of trying to call and have to get a remote automated recording of what the problem is, I know what the problem is.  I don’t want to press one for English and I don’t want to waste my time listening to an automated machine.  Case in point, I woke up this morning with no cable or no internet.  Reason was my dog had the cables in his mouth running around the yard.  I knew what the problem was but trying to tell someone at Comcast was crazy.  I needed a technician to come to my house and reinstall the cable to my house.  I still don’t know why my internet will not work, I got a TV working.  I came to work and had a co worker tell me about her experience of having to wait all day when one of the technicians came to her house 3 and ½ hours late. Then they wanted to charge her for something that was not even her fault.  Then he could not understand why she was upset!  I went to a store today and waited and waited in line to buy something.  The cashier had two speeds, slow and stop.  She looked mad at me because I seemed annoyed at the speed or lack thereof of her service.  I mean I don’t expect to be treated like a king but give me a break if I pay for something I want some service.  I deal with a lot of aircrews and they are very demanding.  They always want to leave early and we try to help but everyone has limits.  I get customer service, I just wish some of the companies I have to deal with had it.  Oh well until Next time.

Circle of life

I have been thinking a lot today about the circle of life and how precious life is. Most of us have seen the Lion King and the circle of life song comes to mind but I got notified today of a friend who lost his long battle with brain cancer.  It was very sad.  He was younger than I was. Known him for over 20 years.  Heard of another guy that a few years ago he seemed larger than life to me and he is now dying of cancer.  I also got a call today that my nephew and his beautiful wife just gave birth to their first child, Liam.  How ironic that in one day the circle of life was completed.  It just hit me today but it happens every day.  People die, and people are born.  Same thing goes on in our day to day lives.  People come and people go.  Relationships end, relationships begin.  People pop up after many years only to resurface and enter your live again.  If you think about the seasons, that is like a circle of life.  Winter hits and every seems dead, it is cold and hardly any movement outside; you work on winter projects and basically hibernate.  By the time summer gets here you are active, swimming, actively enjoying the warmth and the outdoors.  Spring you notice everything seems in bloom and you plan for the upcoming months.  Fall you notice the leaves falling and if your smart getting ready for winter to set in.  I Know that is not the order they go in but what the hell, you get my point.  I heard a comment today about how we become our parents it made me laugh but it is so true.  I guess that is the circle of life in itself. Kelly I never thought your dad was so cool but if you are him, he is one hell of a guy!  Until Next time.

What is up with homeowners association?

First and foremost I feel it is good to keep your yard clean, your house looking good, but who comes up with these rules.  I have heard grass has to be a certain length, or fences have to be a certain height, now I am hearing for the second time that flags cannot be flown in the communities because the flag pole has to be attached to the house and not in the ground.  Give me a frickin break!  I cannot believe we have this problem in this country!  Who writes these stupid rules?  I am so glad I do not live in a homeowners association where someone is going to tell me how I am going to live in my house or what I am going to put in my yard!  If someone cannot fly the American flag in this country we have lost.  I am sure our fore fathers are turning in their graves over this one.  I can understand rules, we have had rules all of our lives.  I had to deal with many rules while in the military but this is beyond me.  Why waste time over something so crazy?  Who checks up on these rules?  Have we became a police state where we have people measuring how long your grass is, what color your house is or if you can fly the American flag? I feel prices are high enough for housing and a home is suppose to be a place you can relax and enjoy, I sure do not want anyone dictating to me how I am going to live in that house, or what I can or not be able to put in my yard.  If it is OK to fly the Mexican flag in California or Arizona, we have taken the confederate flag off of some southern state flags; we should be able to fly the American flag anywhere.  Where the hell is this country going?  In my opinion in the wrong direction! Until Next time!

Back in the day Part two

I really enjoyed the party, reunion etc.  Hearing tales from the crypt so to speak. Seeing folks I had not seen in 30 years, meeting some new folks and saying to myself wow you look great even if I did not have the balls to do that years ago. I was amazed at how many people thought I graduated in 78 or 79.  One of the only drawbacks I saw is I wish I would have stayed longer but I wanted to see my family in Fredericksburg. I tell you the thing that I did not like was the progress (so to speak) of the area.  I could not believe that Triangle is gone.  I remember as a kid my grandfather would take me to Stephens Drug store and get me a soda, it was owned by Frank Stevens and it was on US1.  I remember the billiard room and I would watch my grandfather shoot pool.  I remember watching the Garfield Indians take the field at the high school right off Cardinal drive.  I must of set in traffic a while between Leesyvania State Park and Dumfries.  I was amazed that Dumfries had not changed much but remembered it was a lot better in the past then now. I did not see much activity in Triangle plaza. Want to say the bar/restaurant on the corner was the Tiki room, but can’t remember. A lot of times I could not remember the name of the joint when it was opened.  But was shocked to go around the few turns only to see Triangle had been plowed over. I stopped by the cemetery and it was so quite you could hear a pin drop.  I was thinking how many of my friends who have fathers and mothers there, has to be at least 100.  I was glad to see they had finally marked the Abel cemetery in the woods as that property of the Quantico National Cemetery was their farm.  The name Abel was as popular in Triangle as Dent was in Cherry Hill. I was bummed out to find out the Pilot House was gone.  Bridget did tell me that a few weeks ago but it was still hard to believe.  All in all it was a great day.  I guess I left too early as I would have loved to see some of the other folks that showed up later.  I got to see my family which is always a plus and I got to spend some time with some great people.  Thanks Rick for not hitting me in the chest!  Until Next time!

Back in the day Part 1

Today I had a few different ideas about a blog because of a great reunion party in Prince William County call “Back in the Day”. First and foremost let’s thanks Ashlie for planning such a great event.  It was cool.  I found it appropriate we have it in an area where I use to party, hang out, and stuff before it even became a state park.  I found a road actually under the bridge now and thought man a road would have made it a lot easier to get to. I saw a train going over the bridge and thinking I had to jump off a few times.  Anyway, how cool was it to see Bridget again, not to mention Kelly, Rick and a few others.  I looked in yearbooks from the 70s and thought it was cool to see Butch and I together in the yearbooks and getting to eat a meal together years later.  How neat was it to see Vicki, Sherri and be able to talk to Denise without the fear of the Dent family hunting me down!  LOL.  I never thought I  knew who Allen Dent was but I am glad I found out. Who would have thought of Junior?  If that would have been a road in Stafford, The name would have been JR.  I will laugh every time I see Allen Dent road.  The one thing that stood out I noticed was the food.  I know I must be getting old because I noticed the food first! I did noticed the women but the food was awesome and really stood out. Thanks Mike for your dedication and making sure there was enough to eat for all of us.  I could tell it was going to be a good time when you lit the fire with a blow torch!  It does not get better than that.  What a GREAT day and I look forward to seeing you in October.  I was never called the smart kid, or blonde but today I was.  Funny how no matter if you were from the 70s, 80s, Gar-Field or Woodbridge one thing stood out, we have a bond that will go on forever because we were from a place common to all of us and we all can say the traffic around the area sucks! I really felt old when Ashlie told me when she graduated, hell I was on my third Air Force assignment then. LOL  Pretty bad when I had to call Bill in North Carolina and he had to walk me through the area.  See guys ask for directions!  What a fantastic day.  Until next time.

Who are they?

I have always wondered who they are.  Have you?  I always here they said this or they said that.  I would really like to meet these people but no one knows who they are.  I bet they are pretty smart.  They seem to know everything, from myths, legends, basic common sense, fact etc they know everything.  I thought my ex wife must have been a they because she thought she knew everything.  I thought I was marrying Mrs. Right, but I did not know her first name was always!  LOL.  Anyway, if any of you know who they are I would love to meet them.  They must be pretty old because I have heard of them since I was a kid.  I use to hear they when someone use to say to me you know they say the cripes are haunted. Or they say you will get hurt if you do that.  When I was in the military I use to hear they say you can’t do that, now I am older and almost retired I hear they say you have not saved enough.  I wish I was half that smart.  They must be half women half man.  I mean they never half to ask directions, they know everything, and they are never late for anything.  They are kind of like the butler in the Mr. Deeds movie.  Man was he fast.  Anyway if any of you out there know they, please let me know.  Like I said I would love to meet them.  Off to my old stomping grounds should be a good one. Until Next time!

Politics

I don’t like to talk politics.  I really don’t care if you’re a democrat or republican but I had a friend of mine ask for help yesterday understanding politics, and her getting interested in to whom to vote for.  I know we vote for change, what we believe in and hope the person we put in office can make a difference.  The problem I see is one person does not make the difference.  The news media does not help.  If they are for the republicans they preach that, if there for the democrats, they preach that. They are not bias at all.  Presidents sign things into law, makes public appearances, and has to make some tough decisions once in a while. Who do you think writes the laws? Not the president!  I guess the point I am trying to make is one person does not make this country what it is. We have senators, congressman, and other public servants we vote for so if you think about it when we voted for these people and there are problems, we can take some of the blame.  If you did not vote than you have no reason to gripe.  In my opinion I think the politicians should save their money, cut their staffs and save that money for the good of the country.  We should be able to cut off most of the commercials on TV involving politics. I also think we can get rid of all the signs everyone puts up during election time.  Put a sign or two at the voting place and call it a day.  In Delaware we have a bury the hatchet day which we look past who won or lost and try to concentrate on making this a better place to live. Might be a good idea to extend this tradition for the entire nation.   We as a nation waste a lot of money on politics.  Some people are very passionate about politics.  Brit’s (royalist) are passionate about their Queen also.  I think our president is more of a figure head than a leader.  He is not making most of the decisions that affect this country.  To me I hope the best person; either male or female, black or white wins.  If they can do the job and are up for the challenge, go for it.  Until next time.

Get over yourself!

I am not one to talk religion but there is something that eats my shorts!  One thing I can’t stand is frivolous lawsuits and people complaining over silly crap but I am here to tell you I am sick to death of the wasted time people have because they want to stir up things.  I ranted and raved about the protestors of funerals of military personnel and now it will be about a certain group that wants the new street sign taken down in Red Hook New York.  Seems America lost seven firefighters from Engine 202 and Ladder 101 on 9/11 and a portion of the street was named “Seven in Heaven Way” Looks like people are protesting because of the word Heaven in the name of the street.  Give me a frickin break. Can’t some people find something else to gripe about than a frickin street sign? We need to stop being offended about every little thing that annoys us.  Let’s make things simple.  If you’re offended, don’t look at the sign, if you’re offended because someone wanted to honor heroes, get over it.  Firefighters, police, EMTs, Nurses, Doctors, Military folks, don’t care if you’re an atheist when they are trying to save you or take care of you.  One of the quotes was “it is improper for a city to endorse the view that heaven exsist” What the hell is wrong with people, I am not turning in to a bible thumper but let’s not forget what these brave men did during 9/11.  A street sign is the least they can get.  9/11 was a terrible event for this country, maybe this is helping with a little closer for some, but to argue over a street sign is beyond me.  If the community and the families choose to remember these folks this way so be it.  We have honors for heroes in every city, state, and community.  We have holidays for heroes, so get over it and move on.  Big question is “Is it appropriate?  In my opinion your damn right it is! Until next time!

Handshake Deals

Have you ever wondered how most deals in American are made?  I think most of them are made on a golf course, bar or over dinner.  I have made deals recently over a hand shake.  Tell people what you want, what you need and agree on a price. Handshake or “Gentlemen’s agreement” and you’re done. I made two such deals recently and it is really good to know there are still honest, hard working people in this country willing to take the chance of a handshake.  I asked one guy to cut the grass for me, and he drove about an hour only to tell me the grass was to dry and he would burn it if he cut it.  His honestly and integrity was beyond belief.   You just don’t see that much anymore. There is nothing wrong with that and honestly is about all you need.  I remember when I was in Saudi Arabia I made a deal for a vehicle over a few cases of Pepsi.  I needed the vehicle; they (the Saudi Military) needed Pepsi.  It worked out real well and both parties were happy.  I also agree on the barter system.  Nothing wrong with trading goods or services with someone for the something either party wants or needs.  I don’t believe in having yard sales.  If someone needs something, I will give it to them if I do not need it any longer.  It goes a long way.  I have had people give me stuff that I have and now someone else gets it.  Anyway, this handshake deal stuff works well.  Maybe not in the big cities and I am certainly careful but here in Delaware, it is the norm.  That my friends are one of the reasons why I am here.  The people!   Until next time.

Remove your Rose colored glasses

My heart goes out to the family and friends of two different families tonight, one would be Clarence Clemons and the other was Ryan Dunn.  I mention these two because they died before their time, but they did what they loved doing.  No they were not servicemen or women protecting our country, they were two folks who had passion in their blood.  One for music and one for TV and the big screen. They had passion for their work.  I had the privilege of meeting Clarence Clemons once and even though he played saxophone for Bruce Springsteen he was the sound of the E street band.  His music was Golden. I coul dlisten to him for hours.   Ryan Dunn died in a car accident but he lived his short life to the fullest and entertaining this young generation. You could not help but laugh at some of his antics.   My hats off to both of them.  They made a difference in theirs and  our lives.   Having passion for something is pretty neat.  I had a great weekend with my son and he loves skateboarding. He has a passion for it!  This small state of Delaware seems to be his skate park.  It is cool listening to him because he looks at things in a different prospective.  I see stairs of a building when he sees and opportunity to jump over them.  When I look at something, he sees it completely different.  I love hanging out with him because he teaches me not to always look at something one specific way.  Even though he is 16 he is pretty smart.  I wish I would have listened to him earlier than now.  I guess what I am saying is listen once in a while to your kids.  Sometimes they don’t have to say anything for it to make sense.  Funny how when I was a kid, I did things that others may find crazy but I felt Woodbridge Virginia was my canvass, I certainly left my mark on some places and I bet Pizza hut will never be the same!  LOL  he thinks Delaware is his canvas.  He has skateboarded over a lot of it.  Could write more but I am going to listen to some music.  Until next time.

How cool is history?

I think it is pretty cool.  I liked it in High school, but I had Col Mayberry and Mr. Larson who wouldn’t.  I enjoyed it in college and enjoy it in life in general.  First and foremost I am no expert on the subject but being in the military for so long I thought it was pretty cool what I learned from the different countries and their beliefs and history.   I have been interested in British History since my ancestors got kicked out of there years ago. I guess they did not believe in the same things as the Brits did.  I have enjoyed learning about the history of my home town.  I bet you have heard the term History has a way of repeating itself.  What I know is this.  Stonehenge in England was made by British College kids as a prank when they were board after a night of drinking.  That is my story and I am sticking to it. That could be why I got a D- on my term paper in school.   I know there were two people sitting on the banks of the Boston Tea Party drinking; they were Bartle’s and James.  That is where Long Island Ice tea started.  Our country was divided in the Civil War and guess what?  It is divided today. I was asked once on a final exam how the Germans viewed the sinking of the Lusitania.  I said it was through there telescope when they sunk it.  (Did not do very well on that exam either).  I think the civil rights movement was wrong but it is what it is, it is over we need to move on.  We had no business being in Vietnam, but we went and I am glad the US Vets are getting the respect that they so deserve.  One thing I learned was a crazy quote from Mexican General Santa Anna.  He said “When we invade this country again we will not have to fire one shot” Look at today and tell me he was not ahead of his time.  I know when General Custer asked who all the Indians were he found out.  Yeah History is pretty neat.  I like it and it is funny what I have learned over the years.  I also know that Eve bit the apple and we have had problems ever since and Louis and Clarke were lost and did not ask for directions!  See history has a way of repeating itself!  Until Next time!!!

Life in General My prospective

Here are my thoughts on life in general!  I love going shopping on Sunday but I think every place should follow chick- fil -la and close on Sunday. If you can’t get your stuff done all week then you can wait.  I am not a bible thumper but I believe in God.  I do not trust our politicians in this country. Every time you turn around they are doing something stupid.  They put themselves on a pedestal but all in all they are just as crooked as anything.  Even though I do not like Obama, I really don’t care what color he is but I think he is hiding stuff.  I like Joe Biden.  I met him once and he is pretty funny I really feel he is trying to do well for this country.  I do not think the laws are right in the states.  If you hurt a child, there should be no jail time.  If you are found guilty you should be shot!  I can’t understand the Adultery laws in the state of Delaware.  If you get caught, you should be punished!  I know a case where a lawyer was caught but since he was a lawyer the law firm swept it under the carpet like it never happened.  Funny how the laws are suppose to work for you.  I know why divorce is so expensive because it is worth it.  I think kids should pitch in around the house, have chores or jobs to do and not sit on their butt and expect things to happen.  I think kids should pull up their pants when out in public.  I don’t want to see underwear when I am out.  I feel people should pay their bills, including child support, live within their means and keep their homes looking nice.  I can’t stand driving down the road and seeing a house that is trashed outside but they have a nice car and a TV dish on the house.  I don’t get it.  I feel this generation is screwed up but maybe it is because I am older.  I have always been taught to respect others, the American flag and help old people.  Granted I am not standing on the corner to walk them across the street but am OK helping them if they need it.  I like to drink!  So what?  I can afford it, not hurting anyone and am in my own house, don’t see what the problem is.  Last but not least, I feel you should show compassion for people and volunteer in your community.  If you have not walked in peoples shoes, don’t judge!  OH Well I feel I have rambled enough.  Until next time.

Father’s Day is tomorrow and it made me think of my dad and what an influence he had on me and the holiday in general. Why celebrate just one day for father’s day? It originated in West (by God) Virginia in 1908 the same year as mother’s day.  It is funny, Mother’s Day you take your mom out, get her nice gifts, make breakfast for her etc.  Father’s day is different, I look forward to cooking out on the grill, hanging out with my kids and I am happy just hearing from them. I know I will never be in the father of the year category but as most fathers go, we get the blunt of the blame for our kid’s life and this is one day they don’t need a ride or money!  LOL.  My father who died in 1987 continues to be a part of my life.  It is funny you think your dad will always be there and one day he passes on.  I loved my dad; he tried his best and taught me a lot in his short life.  Things you normally would not think was good to teach your kids my dad taught me and it really helped through life.  I find myself sharing some of those lessons with my kids. My mom taught me to make sure I checked expiration dates on a milk carton, my dad taught me drinking beer out of a bottle was better because no matter how bad it got, you always knew the right end!  Amazing! I have not shared that one with my kids.  My dad was tough (Retired US Marine) but with it came tough love.  I remember when he found out I came home drinking one night.  Most kids would have expected the yelling, maybe a spanking back in the day, not my dad; he made me work my butt off in the yard and around the house until I got sick.  When I got done he smiled and said if you can’t hang, don’t play!  I will always remember that.  It is very true even today. He taught me to work hard, and act like a bear.  I always wondered what that meant until one day I figured it out.  Take long naps, eat well, and try and take care of your honey!  I figured two out of three was not bad.  LOL so tomorrow if you are lucky enough to still have your dad around, say thanks and appreciate the little things he tried to do.  I was proud to be my dad’s son.  He was an amazing man.  Until next time!