It's Sure Looking Like....

...the party is over. With all the "no questions asked" free stuff to those that were foolish enough to fraudulently ask for public assistance (some even not legal citizens) and the fact the laws were only ignored, the coming trimming of staff overburden, demand for protecting the law, and easy targets, will lead to a bureaucratic feeding frenzy. Government workers will find they are expected to follow the rules, and those that are so obviously in not need for public assistance will find they are not only expected to return the money, criminal charges might be possible.

The party is over. Philanthropy at gunpoint, willfully ignoring the law, and an angry majority of taxpayers will lead to a reckoning never seen before. It's time, and the mess will be difficult to clean up.

edit: I have to add the change to the amount of government employees will probably startle many. With a business friendly administration, a new demand for accountability, and an unsustainable spending habit by taxing entities, the solution will be layoffs, lower spending budgets, and a realization you can't spend your way into prosperity. 

Many administrative regulation will disappear. While laws may demand certain things, arriving at what's required can lead to creative, agenda-driven, and unneeded administrative rules, which are only allowed by those that run the executive branch of the government. With the removal of certain regulations, the removal of those that administer the regulations will be necessary. 

It's Christmas

Years ago, the days preceding Christmas day were bitter from an Arctic front. The cold led to temperatures in the teens in the morning, with afternoons right below freezing.

The days were beautiful, with a pale sun and azure skies. Sunsets brought a brilliant orange that quickly followed the sun below the horizon. Other than the cold, the days were those that stamp memories forever.

Christmas day was the day the temperature finally rose above freezing. It was a day of reckoning for many, since the efforts to prevent freezing water pipes were futile during the long cold. Efforts to just drip water were futile, since the water pressure dropped, and the pipes eventually froze.

I had a relative that prepared their dinner, everyone was seated for the feast, and the ceiling fell onto the table. The dinner was ruined, and there was nothing to do, until the appraised surmised the damage, and the repairs could begin.

This morning, I awoke to a temperature of 67. The heavy fog created ghostly tendrils in the stirring air, and the quiet was filled with the sound of dripping of water from the bare limbs of the trees. As I watched the day begin, I realized the air conditioner would probably run sometime during the day, and the mosquitoes will be fierce some in the rural areas.

In a way, a little colder air would be pleasant, but in another, this warmth is much more pleasant than the bitter cold so many have to face. It's what there is, and I'm blessed for what I have.

Merry Christmas to all that venture into this cubbyhole tucked behind the last row in the internet, and may God bless.

It's Firing Time

In the private sector, when you take over a new position, you look for problems, cut costs were they can be cut, analyze resources, and fire any personnel that serve no use.

It's that time for the United States, and my benchmark for the success of a President. Past experience dictates severe skepticism, but there's always hope. Time will tell.

Democracy and the Electoral College

I once heard Democracy described as two pedophiles, and a young child, voting on the age of consent. It's an extreme example, but accurate.

Today, the Electoral College tallies the votes, and state's rights are once again secured against the large urban centers with few understanding the concerns of the states with smaller populations. Many don't like this, but they probably haven't a clue about the reason for the Electoral College and the concerns of the founders of the United States. They'll complain, and continue in their attempt to erode the Constitution.

These are interesting times, but necessary. With the last eight years of quasi-socialism, the majority of people in the U.S. are not happy, and they showed their displeasure by electing a President without years in politics. That's a good thing, and I hope this expands with more entrenched politicians being removed from their feathered nests. Too many political entities are broke from pandering, and it's time for lifetime political tenure to end.

Friday Malaise

For the last few hours, I've had that feeling that I'm either catching the creeping crud, fatigue has won, or both.

My plan is to leave work early, stop for some Nyquil, take some with a shot of scotch, soak in a hot bath, and retreat to the bed.

Bleh!

Well. When You're Gone for a Few Days.....

....they change the format of Blogger. So, I get to wander through the buttons, and hope I don't accidentally turn off the harmonic warp balance control and release the antimatter.  If that happens, don't go outside because the sky looks pretty.

You've been notified.

No Rest for......

.....I have no idea the proper description.

I'm back in Galveston for a project. It's not big, but it will take a few weeks...if not longer.

I won't complain about the difficulties of dealing with the customer, but there are some, and they can cost money, if not addressed.

Still, Galveston is a wonderful place during off-season. The Gulf is beautiful; the beach is less crowded; the citizens seem to take a sigh of relief; and there's a quaint, comforting feeling, when sitting on the seawall, and feeding the birds. The cooler, drier Autumn air has a feeling of anticipation. Winter will arrive, and it can be a harsh, bitter, damp cold. A strong north win will penetrate light clothes and chill to the bone.

I'll write when I can. As time flies, and I age, I realize these are the moments when the season of life offers strong memories tempered by experience. If I don't share them, they'll leave forever; tenuous filaments of smoke in a light breeze.  

I'm Still Around

I may one day write about the last few months, and the few months ahead; but not right now. There are some raw emotions I'm still dealing with, and lots of work on a house.

I miss writing, but time limits thoughts to thoughts, and the written word as a future task. Eventually my life will settle down, and I'll have the time to either astound, confuse, irritate, or instigate a laugh.

It Was a Beautiful Morning (Annual Repost)

I was reading again about the attack on the World Trade Center. The horror returned, the anger at those that hate because they hate our society, and how a nation was stunned by the brutality of others. While those that committed the acts of terror thought they were gaining followers, those they attacked decided they would fight their cult...as long as they remember.  

****


It was an early Fall. The temperature was in the mid 50's and the skies were crystal clear. I had just finished breakfast and we were driving to the job site in the twilight of dawn. The motel was close to our project site, so the trip was short.

Traffic was light as we placed the advance warning signs and started closing down the inside lane of U.S. 59 in Cleveland, Texas. We had five sections of concrete to pull. We sawed the concrete the day before, drilled lifting holes and now needed to pull the sections of failed pavement and start preparing for the new concrete. The pour was set for 10:00 am.

It didn't take long for the lifting machine to pull the first section of paving. As soon as the broken slab was moved to the shoulder, the crew started drilling holes for the anchors. When the anchors were placed, the crew placed a mat of rebar and moved to the next patch.

The procedure was moving as planned, so all five patches were well on the way to being prepared by 8:00 am. We would be ready for the concrete. I checked the work and started documenting the sizes on a daily report.

Around 30 minutes later, my boss called my cell phone. I assumed he was checking our progress, but he wanted to tell me that a plane had hit one of the World Trade Towers. He didn't have any details. I wondered what failure had led a pilot to fly their small plane into the tower. Bad weather? An error in judgement? I thought about it for a few minutes and then went back to work.

It didn't seem very long after that when my boss called me again, which I thought would be a progress check. It wasn't. He explained that it was a passenger jet that hit the first tower and another had flown into the second tower. He described the preliminary news feeds he was watching on television. I could only stare while my mind raced.

We continued working. My boss kept me informed. It was now clear it was a planned terror attack. He was in contact with the area engineer office for the Texas Department of Transportation. We were working for them and their decisions would decide whether we would pour concrete, which required hours of time to set, or place a temporary material to be removed in the future. The decision was to proceed as we always did, so we prepared for the concrete pour.

Before the concrete arrived, my wife called. She was terrified and wanted me to come home. I told her I couldn't leave until the concrete was poured and we were off the highway. Even then, I couldn't leave if we were to continue with our project. I told her I would come home immediately if the project was shut down, and to go to her mother's if she became too worried.

More information was now available, so I knew there was an immediate call for all air traffic to land. I noticed the absence of air traffic immediately. We were close enough to Bush International in Houston to see the constant flow of air transports, which dwindled and eventually ended.

We poured the concrete and started the process of preparing for the next day. I went to the motel to catch what I could on television. The loops of the impacts, the falling towers and the smoking section of the Pentagon was almost unbelievable. My mind was having a hard time wrapping around the fact we had been attacked and the result was the death of thousands of innocent people.

We finished the day as usual. We were prepared for the next day when we started opening the lane in the early afternoon. I had spent long minutes as we were finishing staring at the empty skies, It was bizarre to not see the heavy air traffic. Contrails from military jets stretched across the skies. I wondered if they were ours, or the jets of an enemy that was in the process of invading.

I had kept in contact with my wife during the day. After I reached the motel, we had a long conversation. She was calmer. I knew she still wanted me to come home, but she understood that it probably wouldn't happen until the week was over. Since I was only about two hours from home, I reassured it wouldn't take long to reach home if anything changed.

Watching television was like watching a fictional disaster movie. I was still having a hard time wrapping my head around the events of the day, but it was becoming clearer that it was a middle eastern terror group. My anger was rising and all I could think of  was how cowardly it was to attack innocents. I wanted our military to bomb half the Middle East to Hell. Kill them all and let God sort them out.

I'll never forget that day. Time stopped and it became apparent that the cruelty in the world is always only moments away. Barbarians had tested our defenses and managed to find a weak spot for their advantage. It wasn't a pleasant thought then and still isn't. I feel no compassion for such people and can only offer their death be swift, although many days I'd prefer they would suffer the agony of those trapped on the upper floors of the World Trade Center Towers.  Even after fifteen years, I'm still angry. I'm not ready to forgive, or forget.

So, I Learned Something Today

I was reading a news report about those having a hard time returning to New York City society, after going to "Burning Man". Many are depressed, which - to me - means somewhat of a traumatic return.

I never heard of "Burning Man". I had no idea the event existed, until I looked it up on the internet, After reading, I realized the event, which started as a bonfire with friends on a beach in California, now involves thousands in the Nevada desert. A "radical form of self expression", as described by the creators of the event, which involved burning a man, and his dog, in effigy, is now an annual event in a pseudo-city built for the event. After the even the city disappears, without a trace; a requirement demanded by those that volunteer, and the Bureau of Land Management.

From what I've read, the conditions are rather primitive (many only bathing with wipes for the week), and the Woodstock atmosphere of free expression allows for the attendees to throw away their daily lifestyle for an alternative lifestyle reminiscent of the days of the flower children.

So, now what was once just a few friends gathering on the beach, is a worldwide network of similar events, which promote an alternative lifestyle for one week. I guess that's good, but in a way, it reminds me of a cult, and cults can be disasters.

Purges

Society purges those that conflict with those that want supreme power. In the past, the rulers banished, or murdered those they felt were a threat. In present times, one great purge of recent history was when the Marxisst took over Russia, and those in power purged millions from society. They were a threat, and considered unnecessary.

The Muslims are doing this today, and the current Democrats are making every attempt to remove firearms from private citizens, so they can start their complete purge.

One purge of note was the purge that ended with the creation of the United States. As opposed to others in the past, individual freedom was the reason for the purge, and those that attempted to prevent this freedom were purged from power.

The United States is due for a purge. Who is purged is the question. Those in power obviously want it to be those that question their abuse of power. The citizens feel otherwise. Time will tell how this ends. .

Where Does it Stop?

The government is laundering money, allowing high ranking officials to break laws with impunity, distorting the Constitution for "feel good" results, raising the debt at alarming rates, wasting money to the tune of billions per day, harassing citizens to keep the bureaucracy intact, and ignoring those that furnish the money.

Where does it stop?

Not Paying Attention

I check my blog, but time restraints prevent much posting Many will still take a peak, which leads to the reason for this post:

Over a quarter of a million visitors perused this site. I know some by name, but not many, and have the feeling many visits are by aliens, or internet spiders. Still it's a tremendous number, and I'm grateful for the visits.

Thanks to all that visit, whether human, or not.

Useful....and Maybe an Idiot

The world is a dangerous place. Those that dabble all over the globe realize this, and those that abuse their power should; but many have ego problems that prevent the realization they're expendable to those that really don't answer to any higher authority.

After watching the current administration ignore many laws, dabble in the politics of dangerous countries, take payoffs from foreign powers, and ignore the ethics of a healthy society, I wonder who is in so deep, their only out is to disappear, whether they want to, or not.

Time will tell,

Letting My Feet Hang Down

I have much to write, including a few stories, some personal observations, and the finish of my novel. Unfortunately, life led to some tasks that will consume much of my time. So, I'll write when I can, perform my tasks, and continue this journey on the bozo bus. It's fun, like Disneyland, with Charles Manson as the tour guide. You never know what's coming next, but you know you're taller than the signs.

Now, They Must Move On

The woodpeckers raised two healthy males this season. Early last month, they came with a parent, which would give them food, while teaching them to learn to feed. It was endearing to watch, but over the last few days, I noticed a change.

Since the young birds were now independent, and will feed without help, the parents are establishing their territory. They'll chase the young birds away from the oranges, or feed. The young birds still sneak in for a morsel, but are chased away, when caught at the task.

It's time for the young birds to move on. They'll be around, but the constant attacks by the parents will eventually extend their range, and they'll be more comfortable where they're not harassed by those that brought them to this earth. They'll establish their own territory, and eventually find their own mate.

It's been interesting to watch. Last year there was only one fledgling, and it was gone quickly, which made me wonder if it was the victim of a cat, or hawk. This year brought a larger family, and more opportunities to observe the habits of the red belly woodpecker. Their tenacity is amazing, and their fierce nature while feeding leaves most birds, even blue jays, wary of approaching, and unable to budge them from their feed.

Immigration Nonsense

First, the current problem with immigration is not a problem with immigration; it's a problem with an illegal invasion. Avoiding the legal process only means the respect for the citizens doesn't exist. It's as criminal as burglary.

The United States is the home of a multitude of races, religions, and ethnicity heritages, but the mandate for all is allegiance to the country, a demand for liberty, ethics that only accept a willingness to be productive, and understanding that individual rights are written into law. There are no gray areas to these requirements, and too many are unwilling to accept these things are necessary for a healthy society.

I don't think enough in Washington D.C. understand the requirements of citizenship, abuse their powers to illegally try to change the Constitution, and are unwilling to discard their contrary agendas. Otherwise, they may be more of a harm to the nation than those coming without permission. Regardless, they too should be taken to task for their transgressions, and made aware of the consequences, which due to their actions, requires criminal charges, and prosecution.

The Quandary of Corruption

After years of management, I've observed people at both ends of the spectrum, and how they perform their tasks. While there are many methods, only two important distinctions can be applied to all: right and wrong. Either a person is willing to correct mistakes to do things the right way, or they're willing to do anything to absolve responsibility for bad decisions, or actions; and the methods to handle this usually don't shine a favorable light on the person.

Hillary Clinton erased emails she said were not important. Her further explanation detailed those she erased were frivolous, with the content only involving the wedding of her daughter, the death of her mother, or yoga techniques. Investigation revealed she destroyed records of communications with her aides, and the emails were about business of The Department of State. Her action of erasing these emails not only violated policies she swore to uphold, they violate criminal statutes.

So now, the evidence is accumulating, many members of the Department of State obviously are involved, and it's likely the F.B.I. investigation will lead to a recommendation for charges, indictments and prosecution.

Loretta Lynch is the Attorney General with the power to bring evidence to a grand jury. With what's known, honest people will  think she has no other options, and must pursue indictments, but there's the opinion she won't, which leads to her quandary: Should she continue pursuing the agenda of her political beliefs, which allows a lack of integrity? Or should she do what's right, and honor her oath to uphold the laws of the United States?

Time will tell what she does, but even if she doesn't pursue charges, there is the possibility of future Attorney Generals finding her malfeasance as criminal, and she could have her pension removed at best, or spend time in jail, with monetary fines.

She has a quandary, has the eyes of a nation on her actions, and will face many problems, however she decides to act.

Woodpeckers

In the early Spring, a pair of Downy Woodpeckers homesteaded a hole in the pecan tree. I watched them fight off Starlings and hoped they'd win. Eventually, the tree budded, and then filled with leaves, which left the woodpeckers unseen. Trying to see if they were there was fruitless.

On Sunday, while in the yard, I heard a bird sound that was familiar, but I couldn't remember what type it was. After a few minutes, I realized it was the fussing of the Downy Woodpeckers' and they were intent on making an intruder leave.

Eventually, a few doves flew away, and I caught a glimpse of one of the small woodpeckers. They were still homesteading, and I was content they'd stayed.

The mated pair of Red Belly Woodpeckers are a different story. They have no fear of any other bird, and will chase them away from the feed I place, when they call from the trees. They chase off any intruder, and will spend long minutes eating the oranges placed in a cage on a tree.

My father loved to watch birds. I never realized why, until the last few years. Birds are remarkably intelligent, take care of their family, and woodpeckers have become my favorite. I hope a few Red Headed Woodpeckers will eventually come, like those I watched when I was young. They'll add to the families of woodpeckers I love to watch.

Relative Heat

According to the NWS wizards, the heat index is 106 degrees today. I believe them, and am not looking forward to the rest of the Summer.

Twenty Gone

According to a news report, twenty people lost their life to a gunman in Florida. They were enjoying the last few minutes of a night out, and did nothing, except be at the place chosen by the gunman.

I wonder if we'll get an accurate assessment, and honest reporting on the incident. We haven't in the past; and the current administration is willing to do just about anything to protect their real interests - which are not the best interests for the United States.


Edit: Reports now say fifty are dead.

Political Obfuscation

Years ago, my cousin ran for a local office. Although I didn't support their party affiliation, I knew they were more than capable of the job. Then, the process started.

The ads were horrific against their opponent. It was muckraking, conjecture, and outright attacks that left me wondering how my cousin could allow such dirty actions to continue.

They lost, but the process is seen in all elections today. Somewhere the true candidate is to be found, but the effort to find the candidate is a waste of time. To make things worse, too much of the information presented to voters is a Hollywood version of reality, and voters end up voting for hype, instead of substance.

Maybe the future will bring a demand for less glitter, honest reporting, and avoiding the candidates that are so willing to let their campaign obfuscate for a win, instead of what's right.

Rain and Physics

It rained all morning; adding more water to areas that can't take any more.

A pernicious cut-off low pressure area in the upper atmosphere adds lift to warm, moist air, with a constant supply from the Gulf of Mexico. The meandering of this low led it through a slow passage across Texas, where it now sits near Corpus Christi.

The accumulation of rain is over a dozen inches in some areas, and the outfalls are full. Saturated ground, like a sponge in the bottom of a bucket, offers nothing for helping with the accumulation, and even a half inch of rain adds thousands of gallons of water to a few thousand square feet.

I'm not terribly affected by the rain, although construction work is halted; but many are facing a flood they never envisioned. Houses are under water; rain swollen creeks are claiming lives; and the rain will continue for at least the next twelve hours.

The low is forecast to move into the Gulf, and on to the East. At this time of the year, that can mean a tropical system that thrives on the warm waters of the Eastern Gulf of Mexico.

The coast will have much rain, and Florida may experience some torrential rains; if not more.

Honor and Ignorance

I was reading a news report about the desecration of war memorials. Besides anger, I found I couldn't comprehend the mindless effort to tarnish where those that died defending the country.

For those that performed this dishonor, I hope you realize those you insulted are represented by those still alive that understand the sacrifice; and many are trained to covertly find their way into your bedroom, while you sleep.

You made a serious mistake, and it will haunt your existence.

There is no compassion, and I doubt many will miss your passing.

Summer Appears

Summer may not be officially here, but when it's above 70 degrees before the sun rises, and it's pushing 90 in the afternoon, it's summer enough; especially when you add high humidity from the weekly rains.

I don't know what the next few months will bring, but I have a feeling the uncomfortable threshold will be reached way before noon each day. I'll need plenty of water, supplements, and patience. The first two demands are easy. The last is yet to be seen.

Twenty Four Hour News Cycle

Finding news in the current news cycle is like picking through manure for kernels of corn. Thirty seconds of news is all that's found after hours of conjecture, speculation and editorial opinion. Facts are abbreviated to fit a narrative, and distortions are presented to sway opinions, or achieve ratings.

I really don't know how a journalism student would want to pursue such a career. The highest achievement is hot lights, too much makeup, and the ability to read a teleprompter without mispronouncing words. It's an ignoble quest without substance.

Bleh!

Presidential Qualifications

We've had few Presidents that were qualified. While the founders fought a brutal war to secure their liberty, those that didn't live during that struggle have increasingly been isolated from those that pay their way, and insure their safety.

With the above in mind, I think the following are one week of labor requirements before a candidate can run for President:

- Pulled concrete on a paving crew
- Cleared fence rows
- Dug fence posts.
- Carried shingles to a roof.
- Carried bricks for a bricklayer.
- Placed underground conduit.
- Worked as a welder helper.
- Stacked cement on pallets.
-  Hand dug pipe for a water line.
- Spent a week in a combat zone

These are only a few I can think of off the top of my head. I invite readers to add to these requirements.

A President should have empathy, and a goal to represent those all decisions affect. While an ivy league education has prestige, it doesn't address the daily chores of those that foot the bill. Liberty, without excessive taxes, or regulations, is something that demands those chosen for leadership can understand, and cherish.

I'm adding to this post, as suggestions arrive. 

- Work in a clinic, an ER, or a hospice. 

It's Getting Old

I'm tired of Presidential coverage, the media, and the crap. Where shall I start?

Let's face it: Politics suck; as do most politicians. When you add the wannabes, it's a constant media frenzy of wanting to be the first to report, analyze, or just throw in two cents worth of pundit manure to fill the spots the commercials pay to be in between. A healthy society would call it madness. Our society sucks it up like a shop vac in a sawmill. There is no explanations, or a reasonable discourse; it's just mind-numbing piles of crap.

I'm tired of the constant attack on decency. Regardless of religious beliefs, decent behavior demands you don't discuss the pedigree of someone's mother, while sitting in a public restaurant. If your grandmother would tan your hide for such language, don't brandish it where someone else's grandmother can hear your putrid, insulting diatribe and want to flay you with a hickory branch. Loud music at the red light is included. Your " Ho" song is disturbing, and the sweet voice talking about her sexual preferences would make a porn actress blush.

Driving is not a video game. I know the comfortable, quiet, mad rush - or text chat - makes you think you're only a spectator. You are hurling a ton of steel down the highway, which can turn someone into pieces of meat scattered for hundreds of feet.

I don't care what race, creed, religious sect, cultural identity, political views, or sex you are. When you demand I give you special preference for any reason, I get angry. Assimilate into this great nation, pledge to protect it from harm, and spend some time reading about how it was formed. It has a constitution, and it isn't in a language you don't understand. Stop expecting nine people in robes to determine what is not only simple, it gives directions, forbids government from many things, and never is allowed abridge your liberty.

I have one caveat: Liberty requires responsibility. Not only does it allow freedom, it allows me freedom from you. Don't expect me to understand your point of view, or think it's more important than sitting on the back porch watching the birds. Be quiet, walk softly, and never threaten my peace. The blue jays are eating the bread, and I'm waiting for the woodpeckers to make an appearance.

I Have No Title

I have much to write about, but time - and my sometimes inability to put it all into words - prevents me from writing. Still, I have some things to relate.

                                                                 ***

I think I need a squirrel trap. If there isn't what I envision, I have a good idea that involves bird seed, a good spring door, some heavy cord, and little patience. The only problem I have is what I should do with the squirrels after capture. I have some ideas:

 - Make gumbo.
 - Take them down the street, and release them in the neighbors yard.
 - Catch a few, and teach them how to ride little bicycles, and jump through tiny hoops.
 - Build an elaborate system, and let them run on wheels to generate electricity.

There are probably more things I could do with squirrels, but sending them to Washington, D.C. would only add to the problems with Congress. Enough squirrels have offices, and write laws.

                                                                 ***
I'm having a hard time with the presidential election. Not that it's not interesting, but all problems are caused by a lack of basic fiscal responsibility. With the current state of our Capitol, such problems are way beyond their mental acuity, and elections are only a waste of money. Promising anything only costs more, and the credit card is maxed out.

                                                                ***

Johnny Manziel, with a promising future, decided he'd rather be a spoiled rich kid, and drink himself to obscurity. It's wasted talent.....literally.

                                                                ***

Hillary Clinton is a criminal. So is her husband, and anyone that supports the Clinton Foundation.

                                                               ***

We've had too much rain. While some may blame this on Global Warming,, or Climate Change, or whatever they're calling it today, I know it's the weather, which is what we have every year; regardless of the current effort to steal money with "feel good" legislation and general B.S.

                                                               ***

If someone came into my house without permission, I'd be upset. If they tried to take my job, demand I speak another language, and want free healthcare, my squirrel trap idea would become larger....except the gumbo.

I wonder how many people it would take to run in a hamster cage to keep my house cool?

That's all for now. More will come.

The Beatles - A Day In The Life

If you had the original album,and  listened all the way to the end of the album, after this song, you could hear a screen porch slam shut.



f

Passing of a Legend

Merle Haggard has died. Fighting pneumonia, pneumonia won. May he rest in peace.

Lagniappe

Lagniappe, and "baker's dozen" mean the same thing, unless it's not baked goods, or it's really not something extra, or you expect such things; and you are irritated because you didn't get lagniappe, or an extra doughnut.

You're welcome.

Allman Brothers Band with Eric Clapton Live - Stormy Monday 2009

Some gitfiddle for your Saturday morning.

Sail Away

These lyrics for a chorus have some music attached, but the song may never be complete. The words fit a current event, and bring back memories. 



As we sit and think of days gone by
And the time that slipped away
He used to stand so straight and tall
It seems like yesterday

And he lays there now, so small and frail
And sleeps most every day
He can't get up; he can't go on
We never thought it would be that way

So, sail away, sail away
The lord is waiting for you across this storm tossed bay
He has built a house of memories
He'll take away your pain
Sail away, sail away, sail away

Live Oak Madness

Live oaks are beautiful trees, but strange. Evergreen, they pick Spring to drop leaves, and the amount is almost staggering. Raking is futile. An afternoon of raking leads to frustration, since the next day reveals the same amount before the raking on the day before.

This Spring seems a little worse, but then again, it might be current tasks have left my stamina depleted, and my thoughts just as deplenished.

So, the yard is mowed, the leaves are blown into the street, and I don't care if the city has a problem with the amount. They have machines to sweep them away, and it's their job to accomplish this task.

When Words Don't Work

I wrote last week about an impending passing. They were given 48 hours to live, but that was over a week ago. Their time is very near.

Words don't seem to work during these times. No matter how much you know of the experience, you can't quite find the words that fit the sorrow, loss, relief and emptiness that fills your emotions. You witness them one last time before they're taken away, and all you can think of is how alive they look; even as they lay without breathing.

We all pass, and someone may be there for the final moment...or not. It's part of life, but one of the hardest times of the experience.

BRUCE COCKBURN Dust and Diesel

I Took This a Few Weeks Ago

We were helping with a detour, so I had the opportunity to be on top of one of the tallest bridges in Texas.

It was wonderful, so I took some pictures. This one is the best.

One Spring Afternoon (Re-Post) Again

I spent a substantial part of this weekend with people I love dealing with a father that will never wake again. Massive strokes led to hospice, and his strong body is refusing to give in to the call for the next journey. 

So, why am I posting this again? I thought of this story as a beautiful Spring afternoon unfolded. Trees are full of new growth, azaleas are in full bloom, the gentle north breeze is filled with a freshness only known at this time of year, and a homecoming is soon to happen. 

                                                                      ***

It was a glorious spring afternoon. The tug between the seasons was almost over; the passage of late front the day before left cool temperatures, which yielded to the afternoon sun.

The new leaves on the trees signaled the final break from the grasp of winter. Almost impossibly green they were a brilliant contrast against the azure sky.

Shawn sat on his front porch and soaked in the day. His thoughts wandered between different subjects, but the unique weather had led most of his thoughts to years before. It seemed just about everything brought a memory, or a feeling of something so familiar, it tugged at his concentration.

The neighborhood was quiet, like it always was before. Generations were represented by each house. While the houses might not be childhood homes, they weren’t far away for the occupants. They only needed to go a short distance to find a neighborhood that held the memories of their youth.

A few houses down, a neighbor was cutting their lawn for the first time of the season. As the grass, straggly dandelions and clovers succumbed to the whirling blades they released a perfume, with a hint of wild onion. The odors wafted to where Shawn sat and pulled his thoughts to a collage of spring days he lived long ago.

As he thought, a honeybee landed on his leg. Resisting the urge to swat it away, Shawn quietly watched as the bee seemed to rest and regain its strength. It reminded him of a long gone day when he arrogantly interrupted a bee and was rewarded with a sting. His mother carefully removed the stinger and his father made a poultice of cigarette tobacco. Although the pain was soon gone, he spent the remainder of the afternoon showing his playmates, who were fascinated by the angry red swelling with the red dot in the middle.

Sufficiently rested, the bee soon left, made a few quick circles around the porch and left. Shawn watched as it flew across the street; soon too far away to see.

“Good afternoon Mr. McIntyre.”

Looking over, he saw the women that delivered his mail walking across the yard.

“Good afternoon, Gladys. It’s a fine day, isn’t it?”

“It sure is. I’ve been waiting all winter for this.”

Walking onto the porch, she asked: “Do you want me to put it in the box?”

“Please. I’ll get it on the way in.”

“I’m afraid I don’t have anything but junk. No bills, letters or cards from your sweetheart.”

Shawn laughed and answered: “So, it’s just another day?”

Laughing, Gladys replied: “I guess it is.”

Placing her hand on his shoulder for a moment, Gladys spoke as she hurried on her way: “You have a good day.”

“I will; you too.”

As she walked away, Shawn admired her as he always did. He found her attractive, although he knew he was far too old to ask her out. He longed for the days when such thoughts would never cross his mind. Age had won the battle against his youth long ago.

A car passed slowly and stirred the smell of sun heated asphalt. The scent soon reached Shawn’s nose; returning him to his childhood, when such heat allowed removing his shoes and playing barefooted. He remembered the cool, spring ground was a sharp contrast to the sun heated pavement. If his feet got cold, he only had to stand for a moment on the sidewalk and the feeling would leave.

Looking at his hands, Shawn examined them for a few moments. He had a hard time recognizing the wrinkled, spotted appendages that were his own. Thinking hard, he realized he couldn’t remember his hands when he was young. The thought saddened him; such things should never be forgotten.

The warm air soon conquered Shawn’s unwillingness to not enjoy every moment of the afternoon. Drowsy, he soon fell asleep.

“Shawn!”

Waking abruptly, Shawn looked up to find his neighbor, Caroline, standing next to him on the porch.

“Are you okay?”

Shawn was embarrassed. Caroline was always worried about him, which was understandable, even though it bothered Shawn. Alone, and with his family miles away, she would constantly check; even offering food, which Shawn refused. He was adamant about taking care of himself.

Caroline would “visit”, although Shawn felt it was more of just making sure he hadn’t lost his ability to survive and was a danger to himself. Even though he was suspicious of her reasons, the visits were always pleasant and welcomed.  Shawn appreciated the company, which was a rarity these days. Almost all his friends were gone and only the youngest of family members were left.

“I was just taking a nap.”

“It’s a good afternoon for a nap.”

Shawn smiled and examined Caroline’s face. He could see the worry through her smile. It made him sad; she shouldn’t have to worry about such things

Shaking away his thoughts, Shawn answered with a happy tone: “It’s a wonderful afternoon for a nap.”

“I brought you something.”

Looking at her hands, he found she was holding a pie, covered with clear wrap.

“It’s apple.”

Shawn was pleased. He loved a pie – which he allowed as an offering – and apple was his favorite.

“I’ll put it on the counter.”

As she went into the house, Shawn thought of his mom’s apple pie. He helped her when he could, which always left enough dough for a treat. His mother would cover it with butter, sprinkled it with sugar, add a dash of cinnamon and then bake it until a golden brown. He would enjoy it with a glass of cold milk.

A robin landed in the yard, which diverted Shawn’s attention. It soon started picking at the ground for a meal of the insects that were emerging from the cold ground. Mesmerized, Shawn felt as though he’d lived this exact moment before. Digging in his memories, he couldn’t find any reference, but everything felt so familiar.

“Shawn!”

The voice sounded far away, but familiar

“Shawn!”

Suddenly worried about the time, the sound of a distant train whistle signaled it was 6:00 pm.

“I’m late” Shawn said in a panic.

Jumping from the porch, he ran to the sidewalk and paused. The warm concrete felt good on his cold feet. They were tender, but summer would bring the thick calluses that allowed walking on hot pavement.

Looking back from where he came, he started to examine the old man and young woman on the porch. He knew who they were, or did he? Isn't her name Caroline?

“Shawn Michael!”

Glancing one last time, he saw the woman shaking the shoulder of the old man. Pushing away any thoughts, he started running down the sidewalk toward his mother's voice. She only used his middle name when she was mad or worried.

It was time to go home.

A Loss of Words

A very dear person in my life is facing something I faced, yet I find I'm at a loss for the right words. I faced the same thing long in the past, but I find I'm digging deep for the correct thing to say, and can only watch the event that is near.

I wrote about the passing of my father. He had a struggle, and it wasn't pleasant to watch. I was young, though, and he was too, but I was surprised by how quick he was gone. Maybe it was avoiding the inevitable on my part, or maybe a denial of the possibilities, but at the age I was, my father was still a rock of strength to hold to forever. Losing him was something that never crossed my mind.

I watched late last night, as family gathered to be with someone that the doctors say will never wake again. A minor stroke led to the initial hospital visit, and a seizure last night was followed by a massive stroke. Surgery is risky, and it's not his wishes for heroic measures that can only leave him unable to perform the simplest of tasks; his life one of lying in bed; intubated; all days possibly in a coma; and all dignity stripped away forever.

So the death watch has started. A man that once was a leader of his fellow workers, a rodeo competitor up to months ago, and dearly loved by a family now huddled in a small room filled with medical instruments, is now at the start of another journey. His time here is short, and the time of loss is starting for those that must wait for their journey,

I guess there are really no words that can comfort, or take away the raw emotions these times bring. Only prayers, and hugs seem to offer some relief. Nothing can take away the loss, nor erase the memories that tumble into your thoughts like oak leaves on an Autumn day. It's a finality to one journey, and those left behind can only gaze across the great chasm and imagine what lays beyond for those they wish could stay longer.  

Lack of Something

I've been keeping up with the Presidential Race...if you want to call it that. There's something lacking in the Presidential bearing of too many of the candidates.

On the Democratic side:

There's an idealistic, unrealistic Socialist, that doesn't have a clue, or is unwilling to admit Socialism is a Democracy without liberty. History shows it ends in ruin, and the fact anyone accepts Bernie Sanders as a candidate is a  sign of an unhealthy ignorance.

Hillary can only be described as reprobate. Her quest for power has no bounds, and the litter of her ascension to power is filled with criminal acts that once demanded long terms in prison.

On the Republican side:

Trump says what many want to hear, but his past shows he plays the game of political corruption to buy favors. Otherwise, if it's advantageous to grease the palms of one party, that's the path to take. If the other party shows signs of power, that's where the money goes. If both parties show signs of an advantage, then both parties receive funds to keep the possibility of favors in the future.

There is no integrity in paying for favors. In the end, the price is too high to buy back your integrity. Trump, in my opinion, can't be trusted. His goals are for Trump.

Cruz is a Constitutional Conservative. If you could bring back the founders of the United States, I think you'd find they would be attracted to Ted Cruz's message. That's a good thing, but the evil of our society don't like the mandate of individual responsibility. There is nothing to gain, if those you wish to control have the power to destroy your quest for power. Cruz, if he becomes the Republican candidate, will find the barrels of both sides of the power in Washington D.C. are aimed to insure his destruction.

Rubio is a passing fancy. He is a proven politician; a word merchant if you will. Considering his avoidance of the job he was hired to do - while spending millions with the goal of the Presidency - how can he be trusted to be President, if he's willing to avoid his job for personal gain?

Kasich is a paid hack. He could care less about being President, but knows he might have a lucrative future if he continues to dance to the music of the Republican establishment.

So, here we're at another crossroads for the nation, and it looks as though the souls of many are ready for sell to the highest bidder. How it all turns out will only be found in the future. I'll sit and let my feet hang down, while I watch.

Thoughts for Today

I think I'm losing my compassion. Maybe it will return in full force, but considering the dregs of society I encounter daily, the apocalypse is becoming more than necessary. 

The Presidential race is now become a dance of ass-clowns and the fawning media. Considering the huge amount of money being spent to lie about just about everything, all national problems can be solved with the tar and feathering of at least a half dozen Congress-critters every month. Televise this necessary event, and use the money received to pay for the removal of the salaries of bureaucrats to pay the national debt. 

The Super Bowl happened again - and again - I was completely uninterested. I'll become more interested, when people pay a few thousand dollars to watch me work. 

I see dogs on the highway almost daily. Their neglecting masters allowed them to wander into traffic, and a log truck turned their loyal pet into strawberry jelly. I think the wrong critter was run over. 

Gas is cheap, but the huge oil field industry is closed down. If this happened to government workers, the media would not only be keeping it in the news hourly, the demand by politicians would require at least one dozen politicians to be tarred and feathered monthly....maybe daily. Daily sounds better to me.  

Now, on a happier note: I like the bloggers, and people that visit my blog. Why? Because they are smart. I like smart people. They make me realize how dumb I can be. 

So, What's New?

All sorts of things. Work is busy, with me trying to compress 40 years of experience into short lessons, while young men learn their brains are more than oatmeal. It's a tough task, because they have little to work with. Modern society fail to instill a basic work ethic, the goal of craftsmanship, and the realization that a college education doesn't equate to success.

That, and a new beginning in my life. I might, or not, elaborate in the future, but a substantial change dictates I adapt, and conquer.

I've been watching politics. It's a little sickening to watch, since integrity is thrown away for hype, outright lies, and an unwillingness to describe the evils perpetuated by Washington as something that needs to change.

The weather is nice. Lows in the upper thirties, and highs in the sixties. With bluebird skies, and stout winds, it's more pleasant than many realize. Where I'm working, early mornings reveal fields of diamonds on black velvet. It's more that wonderful, and yields moments that should last forever.

Still, I plod on, take care of my responsibilities, and continue to count my blessings. I'll keep writing, because it's an addiction.

Writing about Nothing

I have quite a few things to write about, but time constraints dictate I write only enough to let readers know I haven't slipped down a mine shaft.

As time progresses, and more time is available, I'll write to clear the cobwebs. ,

Queen of Hearts

For the musicians, there's some unique time signatures in the instrumental. For those that don't know what I'm writing about, enjoy the music. It's some of Gregg's best.

Chihuahuas and Politicians.

I've noticed politicians are much like Chihuahuas. They come in any color, many are smart, some are dumb, they can be loyal, but they can also be vicious. In the long run, even though some Chihuahuas will fight to the death for their master, they won't scare who needs to be scared; and even dangerous folks fear a smart German Shepherd.

I know the analogy is not the best, but it's what crossed my mind, after reading some of the news reports on the current Presidential candidates. The entire mess is becoming tiring, and I wonder how many people realize how most candidates are unemployed, or not doing their job.

Examination

I was examining the right side of my blog page, and digesting the number of visitors. At this moment, 234,378 visitors found my little section of the universe.

For those that are human: I am humbled by the amount of visits. Even if you didn't like the blog, at least I piqued your curiosity, and you took a chance.

For the bots: May you find peace, when a spam erasing program ends your existence.

Writing My Thoughts

I've had a lot to write about lately: dead animals on the side of the road, birds, the strange behavior of people, comments on current events, and general expounding of opinion. Unfortunately, I've had too much on my plate, and time mandates I do something frivolous, like sleep enough hours each night.

So, my neglect of my blog is out of necessity, and not for any other reason.

Time will allow more time for writing ...I hope. If not, remember there are thousands of people at Walmart attracting my attention, and I have all types of thoughts on why stretch pants that make an ass look like a large golf ball is not a good choice.

Driverless Cars?

That's a really bad idea. We can't keep people from hacking our computer, yet we're supposed to be willing to be driven around by something run by a computer?