A Deal That's Not a Deal

Amtrak/Money Pit USA wants taxpayers to cough up half of the money for a 13 billion dollar refurbishment of railway between New Jersey and New York City, which they said was promised in a deal with the Obama Administration. The Trump administration says there is not such deal, and has concerns about the federal government spending so much taxpayer money for a local project. 

The proposed project involves refurbishing tunnels and a bridge that connect New York City and New Jersey. According to Amtrak, these sections of rail will fail within the the next 10 to 15 years. That may be the situation, and the Trump Administration doesn't deny the need, but the method of funding is the concern.

Considering how Amtrak is a money pit, and the fact the proposed project only serves a local community, expecting U.S. taxpayers to fund half of the project, which was obviously a political platitude from Obama, is asking too much, in my opinion. That, and these areas of the country thumb their nose at the rest of the United States by pandering to illegal aliens, promoting an entitlement agenda, and ignore the fact their ability to survive is completely dependent on the good will of the producers of raw materials.

I don't know how this will turn out, but do know the anger towards the capitol will increase if more money is thrown at the poorly run sections of the U.S. constantly decaying due to misappropriation of funds and unscrupulous politicians. The help can only be considered enabling, and the problems will never end by throwing more money toward the problem.

Who Falls First?

With so many in the government obviously intent on their agenda, regardless of the legality, someone will eventually be charged; and it won't be who the media want to fall.

Will it be a member of the Clinton Department of State? Evidence proves many made serious mistakes, and compromised national security. The mistakes are illegal, in spite of intent. With intent, espionage crimes come into play.

Will it be a member of the F.B.I.? Comey admitted to breaking federal law in sworn testimony. For the director of the highest law enforcement agency, that's not a minor mistake. To make an example, such actions require felony charges.

How about a member of the Department of Justice? The Attorney General met with the husband of a presidential candidate, when that candidate was under scrutiny of criminal actions. That's way beyond unethical, and if an intent to bury evidence was the reason for the meeting, the charges would be severe.

Even with the corrupt media acting as "hit men" for the subversive members of political parties, and the government, attempting to bury information eventually leads to an obvious perception of collusion to hide criminal actions. With the knowledge such actions are an attempt to hide known criminal actions, involvement turns into criminal collusion and organized crime.

Meanwhile, Sessions has all the pieces of the puzzle, and is not involved with an investigation, which anyone in the Department of Justice will know was started by a dossier created by a company known for character assassination by any means. The company is exposed, others that had their investigations destroyed by the company are coming forward, and the company is stalling to either destroy information, or trying to reduce the collateral damage of their actions. Bank record will tell all, and if those records are ever officially recovered, the evidence may lead to long decades in prison for some involved.

Muellor, if he was ever part of the conspiracy to destroy Donald Trump, now is not only in the public eye, he surrounded himself with hired hands with shady pasts. Regardless of intent, his investigation is not only tainted, the final outcome may reveal criminal culpability, and the investigator may become a defendant.

Personally, I think Trump is more shrewd than those in D.C. ever imagined. You have to be, to run multi-million dollar construction projects, while dealing with organized labor, criminal government officials, and the cut-throat nature of many large general contractors. Survival means playing your cards to win, and never placing yourself in a position you're betting with something you can't lose. If I'm right, everything is falling in place, and he has the winning hand. Time will tell.

Brutal Weather

We're having a cold spell, which is brutal for this corner of the world. It's far from the freezing conditions to the North, but is has its own way of causing misery.

Here, when the temperature is around 40, and the humidity is around 90 percent, the cold seeps into everything. It's not dangerous, but it's hard to warm up with the damp cold permeating everything.

I never paid much attention to this type of cold, until a few years ago, when the temperature finally fell before freezing. The air became much drier, the sleet turned into snow, and the air stopped being so quick to remove any heat. It was enough of a change to find remarkable.

So, the forecasters are calling for cold, cloudy and damp conditions through the New Year. I hope the temperature stays above freezing, and we don't have to face an ice storm. That turns live oak trees into the damaging bane of utility workers. The leaves collect huge amounts of ice, the limbs break, and many are faced with days without electricity. For all electric homes, that's the start of misery.

Coincidence?

I was looking at a chart of life expectancy ages over the years. When I looked at the average life span for a man for the year of my birth, I discovered the age matches the year I can draw full S.S. payments. Coincidence? Hardly. Ponzi schemes don't work very well if the money disappears too rapidly and the suckers discover how much they've been screwed.

Christmas and the Interstate

I'll post this again. 

***

W.R. pulled his coat tighter, after closing and locking the door of his truck. Stopping for a moment, he took a deep breath, hoped for a hint of fresh air, but was rewarded with the odor of diesel and the exhaust of the tractor-trailer rigs at the pumps. Moving on, he hunched his shoulders in the cold, damp north wind. The faint smell of the grill in the attached restaurant made his stomach growl, although he wished he was smelling something more traditional on a Christmas Eve.

Glancing around the parking lot, he felt the familiar feeling all truck stops brought. They were all the same, but different. All had different faces behind the counter; some he knew, some he didn't; all were the refuge of those that led a huge portion of their life behind the windshield of a truck.

Across the parking lot, in a corner isolated from traffic, he noticed the small car, with the woman standing and looking under the hood. Steam rose in the cold wind and was whisked away; streamers of lost hope and anxiety.

W.R. paused, silently argued with his inner voice, but succumbed to the urge to help someone in trouble. Changing direction, he quickly walked to the car, stopped for a moment, then offered his help.

"Do you need some help?"

The woman looked his way. For a moment a faint smile crossed her face, but was soon replaced with the hardened expression of someone that felt slight fear and apprehension. She stared at his face, paused, but replied with resignation in her voice: "The engine light came on; the engine died; so I coasted to this spot."

W.R. examined the woman's face for a moment. The glance revealed a young woman with dirty blonde hair, a pretty face, and a determination found only by those unwilling to give up, when faced with problems. He guessed she was around thirty, down on her luck, and stranded in a truck stop, while travelling somewhere important. What little makeup she wore was overshadowed by her unkempt appearance: an old flannel shirt, faded blue jeans, and sneakers that had seen better days.

"Do you mind if I take a look?"

She hesitated before answering: "Go ahead; maybe we can figure it out."

He liked her answer. Unwilling to admit defeat, she wasn't about to defer to the advice of a stranger.

It didn't take long for W.J. to make an initial assessment. The coolant reservoir was empty, and the steam was from a cracked heater hose.

"Have you checked the oil"

"I was about to."

Pulling the dipstick revealed a gray, oily sludge. W.R. hesitated, but soon announced: "You've lost coolant, and you have a blown head gasket."

"Is that expensive to repair?"

W.R. looked at her face and found a worried look. He paused to reexamine the car before he replied: "Probably more than the car's worth."

"My phone is out of minutes. Do you have one I can borrow?"

W.R. felt a pang of apprehension. His kindness had led many places he never wanted to go, but he was raised to be that way. He immediately replied: "Sure", and handed her his cell phone.

She dialed a number, waited a few moments, then answered: "Hi, Mom. I'm broken down on the interstate, so I won't be there in time."

W.R. walked a few steps away to give her privacy. Although he couldn't hear all the conversation, he heard enough to understand the woman didn't have the money, her mother would need to wire her some money, and it wouldn't happen until a family member returned to take her to wire the money.

"I'll be alright. I'll stay in the car, and I'll call to give you the place to wire the money."

Lost in his thoughts, W.R. was a little startled when the young woman said: "Thanks. I appreciate it."

A thousand thought crossed W.R's. mind. Pushing sixty, a little overweight, and with a salt and pepper beard, he felt he looked the epitome of a trashy trucker. He felt any offers to help would either repulse, or cause fear to the woman young enough to be his daughter. He looked at the woman, and her face revealed a sadness that pulled at his soul.

Ignoring his instinct to flee, he asked: "How far are you going?"

He couldn't read her reaction, but she replied: "I'm going East, to Mobile. I was hoping to spend Christmas with my mother."

W.R's. heart broke. It was Christmas eve, Mobile was a few hundred mile away, and it would be after Christmas before she received her money.

"I'm heading East. You can ride along, and come for your car after Christmas."

The woman's face changed from apprehension, hope, fear and a guarded look in a few moments. Pausing, she soon spoke: "I'll wait until you come back."

Feeling awkward, and not really knowing what to say, W.J. responded: "I'm going to get something to eat, so it may be awhile. Why don't you join me?"

"I'm not really that hungry."

"I'm buying. I won a few hundred on scratch-offs at the last stop, so I need to pass my good luck on"

She examined his face for a moment, smiled, and replied: "I'd hate to ruin your good luck."

As they walked to the restaurant, she spoke: "I'm Cathy."

Stopping, he turned, held out his hand and introduced himself: "I'm W.R., and I'm pleased to meet you."

She shook his hand, and replied: "W. R. must stand for something."

"Wendell Roberts; everybody just calls me W.R.; I like that better."

Continuing to the door, she spoke again: "It's not a bad name."

W.R. laughed, and replied: "No, but it led to a few fights in grade school."

She laughed, started to say something, but decided not.

W.R. held the door, as they entered the restaurant. Mostly men sat at the tables and booths. A few looked at them as they entered, but most just continued eating, or staring into space.

Finding an empty table, they were soon seated. A tired waitress soon arrived to take their order.

W.R. responded: "I'd like some coffee, and a little time to look at the menu.:

Turning to Cathy, she replied: "I'll have coffee, too."

After the waitress left, W.R. cautioned: "There's a lot on the menu, but other than breakfast, I usually stick to the hamburger, or club sandwich. Unless they hired new cooks over the last few weeks, everything else isn't very good."

The waitress soon returned with their coffee. Speaking as she set the cups on the table, she asked if it would be one ticket, or two.

"Put it on one ticket", W.R. responded. "I'll have a cheeseburger all the way, with fries."

Cathy was quick with her order: "I'll have the same, but cut the onions."

Writing quickly, the waitress left to give their order to the cook.

Neither spoke, until they fixed their coffee and took the first sip.

Cathy was first to speak: "The coffee is good."

W.R. smiled and replied: "It's some of the best around. It's fresh ground and makes up for the food."

Cathy examined W.R.'s face as he looked out the window. Mostly unwrinkled, the only clear lines were his smile lines. His beard was neatly trimmed, a little curly and his pale complexion was free from damage by the sun.

"Have you driven trucks most of your life?"

W.R. turned to look at her face, when he answered: "Since I left the Army in my mid-twenties." I started working for others and eventually bought my own rig. I've hauled just about everything, but it's mostly been flatbed and long hauls."

"Do you have a home?"

"Not right now. My wife of 15 years got it in the divorce settlement, and I kept what little I had for my retirement."

"Do you have any children?"

"I have a step-daughter, although she's like my own. I was hoping to see her, but she's spending Christmas with her mom; and her grandfather. I'll see her when I get back to North Texas"

"Is that where you're from?"

"Amarillo. I was raised there, left for the Army, returned long enough to marry, and start trucking."

"What about your parents?"

My dad died in a farming accident, when I was in the Army. I wanted to request an early out, but Mom wanted to sell the farm, since there wasn't much money to made and she didn't want to keep fighting so hard for so little. She's living with my sister and her husband. We never really were that tight of a family, so I only see them a few times during the year"

Saddened, Cathy spoke without thinking: "That's sad." She wished she hadn't said anything, when she saw the momentary look of sadness, and defeat, in J.R.'s expression.

"I guess so. Those types of things just happen."

Cathy decided to be quiet, but W.R. continued the conversation: "What about you?"

Cathy stared out the window and replied: "I never married. I thought I would, but my ex was full of more crap than a Christmas turkey."

W.R. silently waited for her to continue.

"He had a good job offer in Houston, persuaded me to leave Mobile, so I went to find my dreams. One year later, he's fired for drinking on the job; six months later I had enough, and a little over two years after leaving, I'm here, fresh quit from a crappy retail job, and broken down on the interstate."

Before W.R. could ask any more questions, the waitress returned with their order. Placing the plates in front of each, she placed the ticket in front of W.R. and left.

Cathy spoke: "She could have asked if we wanted some more coffee."

W.R. laughed, and replied: "I'll flag her down in a minute. It looks like only half the wait staff is here, and I wouldn't be surprised she doesn't have a relief."

Cathy looked around, and realized W.R. was probably right. Feeling a little sheepish, she commented: "I should have known. I waited tables for a few months. It's tough to be helpful, when it's all you can do to keep up."

As they ate, Cathy remarked: "The burger is good."

W.R. replied: "They make their own patties, and cook them on an open grill."

As they finished, W.R. flagged down the waitress, and pointed at his empty coffee cup. She soon returned, filled both cups and asked if they needed anything more. Both answered "No; thank you", and she was soon gone.

Sipping her coffee, Cathy said: "I'm guessing my car will be towed before tomorrow night."

"Maybe not."

"It doesn't matter. It isn't worth the towing fee."

Sitting silently, W.R. thought of a friend, made an excuse to go to the restroom, and was soon away from the table to make a phone call. Returning to the table, he asked Cathy: "I have a friend that will buy your car for scrap; if you're interested."

Cathy sat for a moment before replying: "How much?"

"He wouldn't commit, but said he just finished repairing a tire down the road, and would meet us in the parking lot."

"Well, let's go find out."

Rising from the table, W.R. picked up the ticket, and examined the cost. When they reached the checkout, their waitress was there checking out another customer. When finished, she quickly rang up their bill, and announced the cost of a little over sixteen dollars. W.R. pulled a twenty from his pocket, peeled another with it, handed it to the waitress, and said: "Keep the change."

Shocked, the waitress started to say something, but didn't when she noticed his wink. A huge smile appeared, but soon faded, when a customer called from one of her tables. With a quick "Thank you very much", she was soon gone.

"That was more than kind"

"She deserves it. Waiting tables is a thankless job, without tips."

A gust of cold wind caused both to bend their heads to the wind as they left the restaurant. Looking towards her car, they could see a service truck parked next to it, with a man looking it over.

As they walked up, the man held out his hand and spoke: "Howdy W.R.; Merry Christmas."

"How are you doing, Hank?"

"I'm tired, but the business is too good to stop. Most of my competition is off tonight, and I just had another call for a flat repair."

Cathy introduced herself and asked: "So, what do you think?"

"I'll give you a hundred dollars for it."

W.R. quickly responded: "The tires are almost new; you'll get twice that much for selling them used."

"Yeah, but I'll have to put them on, so there's labor involved."

Pausing, Hank offered another price: "I'll give you another fifty, but I won't go any higher."

Cathy looked at W.R. with a questioning look on her face. He nodded "yes", but she was hesitant.

W.R. waited, but Hank quickly responded: "You're killing me. As it is, I won't make much money."

W.R. replied: "Maybe not, but she's probably losing money."

"Okay, I'll give you one hundred seventy five, but that's my final offer."

Cathy quickly responded: "I'll take it; I even have the title."

"I don't need it, but I'll take it anyway. You sign it, and I don't have to worry about you reporting it stolen."

Pulling the title from her purse, she signed the back, and handed it to Hank.

"If you have anything in it, you need to get it now. I'll probably tow it before morning,"

Opening the back door, Cathy pulled out a suitcase and two Walmart bags, with wrapped presents. Placing them on the ground, she quickly took the money Hank pulled from his wallet.

Shaking her hand, he said: "It's pleasure doing business with you, but I need to get me a cup of coffee to go and get out of here. There's money to be made."

Quickly shaking W.R.'s hand, he was soon off towards the door of the restaurant.

Cathy stood quietly as he disappeared. W.R. could see her eyes were brimming, so he quickly said: "We need to go put your things in my truck. After that, you can go use the restroom, I'll get us some coffee to go, and we'll be off.

Hank was sitting in the truck, with the engine running, when she returned. The heater warmed the cab, which made him a little drowsy. Taking a sip of coffee, he watched, as she climbed into the passenger seat. Fastening her seat belt, W.R. put the truck in gear, and started from the parking lot.

Cathy was first to speak as Hank accelerated up the entrance ramp on the interstate: "I want to thank you for your help. I figured the car was total loss and I'd get nothing."

W.R. didn't know what to say. It was obvious she had almost nothing to her name, and little more to show for the last two years of her life.

Cathy's laugh surprised W.R. as she commented: "I only paid five hundred for it; and used it for months. Truthfully, I was surprised it lasted as long as it did."

W.R. continued to drive silently, but Cathy was in the mood to talk. He decided she was probably a little nervous and was glad for the company.

"I'll be home in time for Christmas with my mom. She'd have come with Uncle Bill to get me, but he doesn't drive on the highway any more; he broke both his legs last year, while driving to Florida, and is too scared to drive any farther than the grocery store."

"Your mother doesn't drive?"

"She doesn't have a car, and Uncle Bill won't let her drive his pickup. I'm sure he'd have brought her to wire me some money this evening, but he's visiting his daughter. Even then, I doubt they'd find any place open"

W.R. digested the information for a moment. Cathy soon commented: "You need to meet my mother. I think she'd like you."

"What about your father?"

Cathy's response was quick, and full of vehemence: "That sorry bastard is probably in jail, or shacked up with some whore."

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be. Mom left him years ago, and if she hadn't, I'd probably shot him for beating her."

W.R. didn't know what to say, but Cathy did: "She's about your age, and she's still very attractive."

The comment made W.R. nervous, but raised he curiosity. If she was as pretty as her daughter, she might be someone to meet. He'd been lonely, since his divorce, and his life didn't allow much time for dating.

Handing Cathy his cell phone, W.R. advised: "You should call her, and let her know you're on the way."

Cathy felt guilty for a moment. In all that happened, she hadn't called her mother, and all she knew was she was stranded in a truck stop.

"Hi Mom. I found a ride, and I'll be there in a few hours...No, a kind trucker offered me a ride...I know, but I can take care of myself....don't worry, I'll call when I get close....I can walk to the house, it's not that far from the interstate.........okay, but tell your neighbor I'll give them some gas money......I love you, too....Bye.

"She's worried. I can understand that, she hasn't had much luck with men."

Both were silent for the next few hours, except for comments about the traffic, or things of no importance. Cathy eventually nodded off, so W.R. turned on the radio and listened to music as he drove.

When they were getting close to Mobile, W.R. spoke loudly, so Cathy would wake up: "We're almost there. You probably should call your mother."

Cathy woke, took his phone, and stared through the windshield for a few moments, before dialing.

"Hi Mom. We're almost there...I dunno....that's on 65, isn't it?"

Recognizing the interstate number, he told Cathy: "I'm heading north on 65. We can meet her somewhere there."

Cathy continued: "That's that Super Walmart past Airport?....I'll ask."

Turning toward W.R., he quickly answered: "I know where that is."

"Okay...I'll see you, when we get there...Uncle Bill's home?...Great."

For the next few minutes, Cathy talked about how Mobile changed, even in the short few years she was gone. They were soon at their destination, so W.R. pulled into the parking lot and came to a stop. In a few minutes, an older pickup pulled next to the truck.

Looking at the truck for a moment brought a huge smile to Cathy's face. Climbing from the truck, she hurried to meet her mother, who she hugged tightly and kissed on the cheek. Quickly hugging her Uncle Bill, she turned to find W.R. approaching with her suitcase and bags.

"Mom; Uncle Bill; I want y'all to meet W.R."

Both smiled, and held out their hands. W.R. shook both their hands and said: "I'm pleased to meet you."

Cathy's mother responded: "I'm Ellen, and I can't tell you how much I appreciate your help."

W.R. examined her face, and replied: "It was nothing. It was on the way."

Ellen was pretty, just like Cathy said. Far from young, W.R. could see Cathy in thirty years.

We'd like you to have Christmas dinner with us."

"I appreciate the offer, but I need to keep going. I'm due to deliver my load tomorrow and pick up another for delivery in Dallas in two days."

Cathy pulled a small pad from her purse, quickly wrote down a number and handed it to W.R.

"This is my Mom's number. Call, if you're this way again."

W.R. took the piece of paper, stuck it in his coat pocket, and replied: "It's nice meeting you all, but I need to get going."

Cathy quickly hugged him, and said: "Merry Christmas, Wendell Roberts; and God bless."

W.R. hugged her back, looked at her face, and saw her tears. Turning, he returned to his truck, placed it in gear, and waved as he pulled away. Looking in his rear view mirror, he saw them standing together, and waving in return.

Pulling back on the service road, he was soon on the next entrance ramp and accelerating into the traffic. Rolling down the window, he reached into his pocket and threw the piece of paper out the window.

For a few moments, he regretted what he did, but knew it was best. Turning on the radio, he found a rock station and turned the music up loud. He'd stop a few miles up the road; and continue on, after a short nap. He'd work on his log book tomorrow, while he waited for them to unload his truck.

Here It Is Again

It's almost Christmas, with the family gatherings, exchanging of gifts, fantastic feasts, and the festivity of the season...but all I can think of at the moment is a sandwich.

Years ago, while working on a highway repair project, I found a small convenience store owned by a well known Italian family. In the back was a deli. It wasn't the most fancy of delis, and there was nowhere to sit.

As I examined the menu behind the counter, the muffaletta caught my eye. I ordered one, paid for my order, and hurried back to the job; eating on the way.

If you like mufalettas, you'll understand the difference between a good, and exceptional mufaletta. This was one that will give you a craving, and a return trip for another. I was hooked, and had many before the project finished.

The store eventually closed. Urban decay, and an older couple's decision, led to the end of an establishment. Like many of the old neighborhood stores, the ending also ended access to exceptional food.

This morning, while watching a food show, a chef showed the preparation of a mufalleta. The olive spread, fine smoked meats, and cheeses were added to a perfect mufalleta roll. My mouth started watering, and a memory returned.

So, with all the Christmas foods soon to be tasted, all I can think of is a mufaletta. I have the feeling I won't have one during this holiday, but if I do, I'll enjoy every bite..

Maybe Something Else

From what the media reports, Sessions is not doing much, and his recusal from the Russian collusion investigation infuriated many people. That may be true, but there is the possibility he's baited his traps, and waiting. There are some people involved with the investigation that were probably known to be less than trustworthy, and giving them the opportunity to attempt to cover misdeeds may end with some really nasty characters finding they're on trial for a gamut of crimes.

Time will tell. 

I Wonder How This Will Turn Out

According to a lawyer for the Trump transition team, the Mueller investigation received information illegally .  If so, any, if not all of this information, will be determined as inadmissible for any purpose. For a special investigation, that means the methods, and motives, of the investigators will not only be in question, the entire investigation loses all credibility to suspicion of motives beyond the original purpose. With current information showing the original effort of the investigation yielding no results, those involved may now become the focus of another investigation. If they are suspected as criminally culpable in their efforts, indictments will follow, and some high ranking government officials may find the possibility of imprisonment.

I don't know how this will turn out. Current information points to a strong effort to destroy the election of Donald Trump and his Presidency. In a less polite society, that's considered treasonous, and the punishment for those involved brutal.

Another Predator Revealed

After realizing some might find the following horrible, and upsetting, I need to say it's all fiction and part of things I made up. 



Apparently, a much beloved character actor's improprieties were hidden for years, but no more. Who? Yoda.

Yoda, who's real name is Henri Humptemiener, was taking advantage of the women he worked with for years. The French actor known as the gentle, wise benefactor, as portrayed in his roles in the Star Wars series, was constantly causing problems with women he worked with.

As one production assistant related: ..."I still remember the time I was instructed to meet with the attorneys of one of our productions to sign some papers. Henri stepped into the elevator as the door was closing. At that point, he started putting his hands all over me. He was like a spider monkey on steroids, and it took all my strength to keep his hands away."

Another told of walking into Henri's trailer to inform of his next take for a scene. "...There he was, completely naked. When I said "Excuse me" and turned to leave, he blocked the door and tried to put my hand on his member. I was horrified, and will never forget that little green "pickle", which he shook at me like it was a toy. The language he used to proposition me was terrible. I had to force my way out of the trailer, and would never get near him again..."

So, many will have their impressions changed. I'm appalled, but not surprised. Hollywood seems to be a fertile ground for sexual predators, and even the most admired can be those worst of all.

When Hate Turns Into Insanity

Much of the media hates the President. That's an opinion they can rightfully have, but when it leads to immediate reporting of lies, or fabrications, that hate is best described as insanity. To make things worse, they don't realize their lapse of reasoning, and continue to ignore the fact their opinion is not shared with the majority of the voters. This will lead to less credibility, fewer viewers, and the eventual complete lack of trust.

Logic dictates refraining from such actions, but logic was ignored many years ago by those that think the failed Utopian dreams of a society where everyone has everything they want, never worked in the past; and the millions that died during the experiments of government were innocent victims of insanity.

Surprise

It's rare for it to snow in my corner of the world. It's even more rare for it to happen this early, which the NWS is reporting as a record.

It Was Just Paper

The Constitution of the United States was a manual on government operations, until the Bill of Rights was determined as the only way the states would sign the document. Those that just fought the revolution were still apprehensive about any organized government, since the last one had tried to kill them for their civil disobedience.

I think people either forget, or don't realize, the Bill of Rights wasn't something for the citizens to follow, but a mandate of things the government can't do, with certain restrictions on what it can do, and a demand the government not meddle with individual liberty.

I see the Supreme Court is in the process of deciding whether a baker is forced by law to make a cake for a gay couple, even if it's against their personal beliefs. How this actually came to this point is beyond me, since it's obvious even a responsible lower court would never allow such actions, and a state legislature would never introduce laws that cross this boundary.

The Supreme Court is becoming frivolous, and probably inconsequential. In the efforts to legislate from the bench, too many justices became so open minded, their brains fell out, and they didn't realize that any citizenry will react to tyranny in the method it's tried. When words don't work, the next step is never kind.

Time and Distance

Today is December 7, 2017. On this day, 76 years ago, Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, killed thousands, and the United States became involved in a war already involving much of the world.

My father turned 18 near the end of the war, and didn't see combat, since the war ended. He was one of many men I knew that lived during that time, and are now long gone. The youngest during that time are approaching the century mark, and their days are numbered on this Earth. Their memories are still fresh, since they were branded by terrible events. 

For those that don't know much, those that fought spent years in brutal war. They fought for many reasons, but most fought without questioning their duty to protect the United States, and it was obvious the United States was under attack.

The distance of time removed the horror most felt after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Time, also, removed the years of blackout curtains, rationing, letters notifying of the loss of a loved one, and the hard work of those that kept the U.S. running, while most resources were being used for the war effort. Things were tough, and without the reference of someone that lived during that time, it's hard to fathom the emotional stress. Reading doesn't replace the expressions of those that suffered.

So, we now have constant Christmas songs on the radio, promises of the best prices for shopping, the daily garbage called news, and an entire sub-culture of people that are perfectly satisfied to live a life of mundane waiting, and the hope they can find a way to use their government stipend for some alcohol and cigarettes.

I'll say a prayer our nation is never forced to travel those straits again. There was no guarantee of winning the war, and the suffering to win was more than too many today could handle.

Fly on the Wall

If I had to guess, I'd guess there are many that work for the government just a few more revelations from panic. If I was a fly on the wall, and could observe some of those under close scrutiny by the public, I have the feeling I'd observe some people in the final stages of finally realizing there is something much stronger than the media becoming angrier every day.

If you think about, not only have influential government officials been directly involved with criminal actions, they've committed more criminal offenses in the effort to hide their actions. That may seem to many as "business as usual". It's not, if enough participate in demanding accountability.

It's obvious the highest law enforcement agency is tainted. Key officials used their power to circumvent the criminal justice system by colluding with justice department officials. While many think there will be no repercussions - and that might have happened in the past - the lack of transparency led to well financed scrutiny. This scrutiny is revealing more than can be covered up by the media, and those involved.

It's time for the honest people in government to stop being afraid of losing their pension, or position. I'm sure there are enough to make a huge difference, and it's their duty to the United States to stop the illegal network of criminal government employees. It's also time for the honest law enforcement officials to make strong efforts to insure whistle blowers are protected from those that will do just about anything to protect what they acquired through criminal actions.

Loss of Tolerance

I've been a tolerant person during my life. Maybe it was the way I was raised, or maybe my experience, but tolerance for new ideas, and things, was how I rolled.

I've lost that. I think it's because too many new ideas cost me money, or are an affront to my morals; and those with "innovative" opinions are as crazy as shit house rats.

So, I find myself avoiding even family members that are Liberal/Progressive/Socialist. They don't realize the supposedly innovative ideas they embrace killed millions, and destroyed the economies of countries the size of the United States. Their ignorance only shows they'd rather trade liberty for a free meal.

Investigators?

One of Muellor's team of supposedly special investigators was fired for their possible anti-Trump tweets. This makes me wonder if the team, which is filled with people loyal to Clinton, is much more than a huge waste of money by political hacks. They've only managed to confirm the FBI used a fabricated document to try to derail Trump's presidency, and ignored the DNC effort to use their political power to steal an election.

Special councils have a specific purpose, but always seem to spend huge amounts of money chasing their tails. In the end, politicians, and their minions, manage to escape prosecution, and justice is left in the gutter.

So Much For The Flu Vaccine

My wife has Influenza A. She had the flu shot, so the symptoms are not terrible, but it's still the flu.

So far, after a feeling of malaise on Thursday evening, some Nyquil, and 13 hours of sleep that night, I've been good. Maybe I was starting to suffer, my home remedies were effective, and I'll continue with no flu.

I'll keep my fingers crossed.

It's Time for Soup

After all the rich foods, heavy desserts, and exposure to whatever ailment found family members after Thanksgiving Day, my wife suggested a vegetable beef soup. I agreed, so that's on the to-do list for this afternoon. I think it will be good, and necessary.

You Can't Get there From Here

I live about a mile from the interstate on a county road. The road connects to other roads, which lead to other roads, which eventually lead back to the interstate....if you know the route.

An accident on the interstate leads many to abandon the highway - even if it means crossing the ditch - in the hope of avoiding the stopped traffic. That's where the problem develops.

If they leave the interstate, travel about a half mile, and take a left, they will soon find they are back on the service road, which goes for about 20 miles. That usually bypasses the traffic, and the accident.

If they go straight, they find a dead end road, or a right turn that requires knowledge of local roads to eventually lead to a county road that leads to a farm to market road, which leads back to the interstate.

It's crap shoot on decisions, but many wander down the wrong path, and either turn around, or get lost on the county roads.

There's a wreck on the interstate tonight. I heard the sirens, watched the wandering cars, and know it will be a few hours before it all calms down again. For Thanksgiving travelers, this will add frustration, and memories.

Composites

We had a cold front yesterday evening. This morning revealed a perfect fall morning, with the temperature in the forties.

As I walked to my truck, Thanksgiving crossed my mind. We're planning on having it at the relatives, with the usual feast. We've had it there before, so I know it will be a special day.

My thoughts wandered to Thanksgiving over the years. The memories are many: chilly days, azure skies with mare's tail clouds, the aromas of Thanksgiving meals, and the people I shared the days with.

Things are different, yet the same. So many in the family are now gone, but there are always new relatives to share the day. That's what makes Thanksgiving special, and leads to the excitement while waiting for the day.

For all that read here, I hope your Thanksgiving Day is one of your best.

When Academia Stumbles

Universities, from Ivy League, to local community universities, peddled unrealistic dreams, overcharged, allowed poor performance, and ignored those that turn the wheels for so long, they finally reached the point of possible insignificance. Many not only don't want to recruit from university candidates, they make it a policy to avoid such practices.

Academia has stumbled, corrupted the goal of higher education, and released hordes of inept, unprepared people into society, with enormous debts.

Things That Don't Exist

Many things don't exists, with the most common as a "gun free zone". Criminals will carry weapons in a gun free zone, so will police, and citizens that realize the danger of not having protection. So, why is this mythical place continued to be promoted?

It's Part of the Job

Trump was elected President to stop the inflow of thousands of unvetted aliens. Meanwhile, those that think it's a good idea to let anyone into the United States, without any restrictions, are successful in keeping the President from doing his job.

I think the only solution, at this time, is to close the door completely. It's within the power of Trump, and it's time he exercised the power. While many will complain, or attempt to stop it in court, they're efforts will be stopped, when those working under Trump are forced to either resign, be fired, or follow the order.

Some will be harmed by the action, but I've reached the point that's less of a problem than allowing people into the United States that have crime, murder, or mayhem as their goal. No new aliens, no new problems.

Nobody Owns Anything

Think about it. everything you think you own is owned by bureaucrats, and taxing entities.

Refuse to pay taxes to a local corrupt government? They'll file papers, send people with guns, and take your home. Then, they'll sell it for pennies on the dollar to satisfy their bureaucratic necessities, and ignore the foolishness of their actions.

Refuse to pay taxes on your income, in protest of wasteful expenditures? They'll take your bank account, garnish your wages, and demand penalties, with interest, on your effort to control out of control government officials.

You can't expect any bureaucrat to refuse their job to take what is only allowed by a polite society. They can't conceive a society that reached the point they will say "enough is enough", and take out their anger on those that follow legislative guidelines that ignore personal liberty.

Still, the past reveals all societies eventually reach a breaking point, and the result is never pretty. Whether our society ever reaches that point will only be revealed in the future. I can only hope it doesn't involve violence.

Cornbread Stuffing

I've had many different cornbread stuffings, but one is what I consider the standard for taste. Unfortunately, I'll never have it again, so only the memory remains.

My grandmother, would prepare a huge Thanksgiving feast with the help of my mother and cousins. There was turkey, ham, homemade mashed potatoes, home grown Kentucky Wonder green beans, sweet potato casserole, an assortment of deserts, and my grandmother's cornbread dressing.

I asked her how she prepared it one year. It was simple. She prepared her cornbread, onions, spices, and stuffed it in the huge turkey. As the turkey cooked, the juices saturated the dressing, and made a flavor only she could create. Her amount of sage was perfect.

I liked it best with the brown gravy made from the turkey drippings. I'd pick out the giblets, and place  a healthy spoonful on top of the dressing. I'd eat too much, but gladly return for more, when we enjoyed the food again at supper.

I miss that treat, and sometimes wonder if I'll ever enjoy the best dressing again. I'm thinking it will be my experimentation that will eventually yield a close second to my grandmother's dressing. I can only hope. The flavor is fantastic, and I miss it.

Veterans

I've known, and know a few veterans. They served from everything to clerks in Saigon, to crew members of a nuclear submarine. All were not home with their families, many were shot at daily, and all served those that live in security provided by the armed forces.

We owe our veterans a thanks at least. They gave more than most understand in service to those that don't have a clue.

While Thinking About Breakfast

I was thinking about what to make for breakfast. I thought of bacon and eggs....maybe with some hash brown potatoes....when I thought of how good a cold slice of apple pie tastes, with some bacon as a side.

I don't have any cold apple pie.....Oh well

Another Week

It was a good week at work. Things went as planned, what little rain we had didn't affect the progress, and the last of the work week was more than beautiful. There might be some scheduling issues on delivery times of materials, but like all things I can't....it was supposed to be a draft at this point....but I hit the wrong button, so.....control, I'll adapt to the scheduling problem and continue with the project.

I Think It's Funny

According to the former DNC HWIC, Hillary was not only ill, she basically stole millions from the party. That's funny, and a clear indication Liberals are not only insane, they're willing to pay for continuing their insanity. May they enjoy their bankruptcy, while the Clinton clan lives a live of luxury.

Parties: Two, Integrity: 0

Two political parties control the United States, and neither has integrity. Both are only concerned with perpetuation of power over citizens, accumulation of wealth, using public funds to buy favors, and ignoring the damage both have done to the nation. Those in charge may feel they're secured in trading opportunities to continue their agenda, but they need to realize they've passed the point of decency, and the anger of the citizens is headed to reactions beyond polite discourse.

If They Don't Report It, Did It Really Happen?

Yesterday evening, going home was a series of long waits in traffic, back road diversions, and dealing with traffic filled with impatient, angry people. It was obvious the interstate had a wreck, but considering the amount of side road traffic, I could only consider it a major wreck. Local radio was silent about the wreck.

When I finally crossed the overpass on the road to my house, I could see the wreck. Large wreckers were ready to haul away the wreckage, tractor trailers were scattered, and the remainder of one truck was smoldering in the median.

People were wandering around the rural back roads near my house for hours after sunset. This is a normal occurrence after a wreck, and I've given directions many times to people trying to find another route.

The internet sites for the local televisions outlets didn't reveal anything. I did find a small article in the local newspaper site that stated the local sheriff reported a truck fire at 2:40 yesterday afternoon, and traffic would be affected.

By my calculations, the interstate was almost shut down for over five hours yesterday afternoon, and evening. Otherwise, tens of thousands spent hours creeping through traffic, or completely stopped in areas that have few, if any exits. Much of this area doesn't even have a service road.

I might be nitpicking, but that's what the entire idea of news reporting revolves around. Major events that affect thousands require an effort to make people aware, and the possibility of offering solutions, such as alternate routes. It didn't happen this time, and it shows a laziness, or incompetence by local media outlets.

I did learn they had a parade for the Houston Astros yesterday. I really didn't care, except I know those that work in the downtown area had their Friday evening turned into a traffic nightmare. I'm sure few really cared about the Astros, when they spent an extra hour during their usual hour drive to cover a few dozen miles. 

Full of It

I don't have much faith in what people say. I might be wrong, but all the talk about not watching professional sporting events with players disrespecting the flag - in my opinion - is just that: talk. Considering how the alphabet networks are still in business, people are generally full of crap, and unwilling to sacrifice their viewing choices for integrity.

Strange Day

Today, for some reason, many commercial sites, and foreign language sites, decided to visit my blog. The tally is around 2100, which is around half for a normal month.

I don't know what caused the visitors, but if you're really a human, thanks for coming by to visit my tiny corner of the world.

So. What Do They Do?

It's obvious there are powerful people involved with the scandal associated with Fusion, and the Russian Dossier, which is now being exposed as fabricated to appear as actual intelligence. Those high up in the food chain are now very rich, powerful, and will do just about anything to prevent exposure.

What can those that know important information do, if they want to come clean, and be honest? I have no suggestion. They are targets to those that not only have many resources, those resources include professional assassins to prevent any information being exposed.

We live in dangerous, rotten times. I always hope there are those in the government that have equal resources to protect those that are vulnerable, and prosecute those so willing to harm the United States for personal gain.

Baby Boomer

I'm of the baby boomer generation. It's a generation that spent many, many years paying taxes, keeping the wheels greased, and contributing to the success of the United States. So, those that make statements that suggest those of my generation will be a burden on Social Security, and other sources of retirement income, can pound sand. We earned our retirement, and you need to realize pissing us off isn't a smart move.

Lack of Something

It's an evening that is more than appreciated. The air is transparent, there's not a cloud in the sky, and the cool north wind brought the temperature to just above 60.

I stepped outside, looked at the last orange glow, and heard the coyotes on the hunt. It's something unknown to those that inhabit the cities, with bright glow of streetlights, and rumble of traffic. As I stood, the howls stopped, and resumed farther away, as they continued searching for they prey.

Too many lack something, which is hard to explain, unless you experience the part of the United States that isn't subverted by a society willing to give up even liberty in the effort to find a perceived security.

Those that understand will know what I'm trying to explain. Those that don't, will make a quick trip for some fast food, and watch a crappy movie on cable.

Bureaucrats Suffer From an Illness

I was about two paragraphs into a logical explanation of bureaucrats, with some constructive ideas on how to stop people from becoming bureaucrats,  but realized it was a waste of time.

We need to put a bounty on bureaucrats. Bureaucrats higher in the food change should bring around $500, and those lower around $100.

I don't know what we'll do with them, but whatever we do, they can't have any materials that allow them to write, or file anything. Maybe we can just let them wander up and down the highways; picking up trash; desperate for something to file, and watch as they lose their collective minds trying to file empty hamburger wrappers and beer cans.

I dunno, but they've reached the point were they're like the rats in New York, and something needs to be done to stop their propagation.

It Would Take Only One

If one prominent member of the Federal Government was prosecuted, the ensuing exposure of illegal activities during prosecution would lead to a flurry of new indictments. Whether this happens is the big question. There are too many corrupt members of our government, and they're doing everything - including breaking more laws - to prevent the exposure of their corruption.

It's Raining

We haven't had any significant rain since Harvey. That's good, and the rain we're receiving today is light; and not expected to have a large accumulation.

Harvey changed my perception of rain. There's nothing that prepares you for rainfall that leads to wondering how you'll escape if it doesn't stop. My trepidation ended before high water caused me to find a way out, but many were forced to call for help, when the water became waist deep in their house, and was moving too fast to attempt to go outside and escape.

Still, it's cool autumn rain, which I've always enjoyed in the past. As time goes on, and things return to normal, I'll probably enjoy this type of rain again. Hopefully that will happen soon.

After Eight Years

George W. Bush gave a speech, which related his displeasure of the United States today. While many of the points were spot on, my only question is: "Why now?"

The Obama administration ignored law, caused great economic harm, shielded criminals from prosecution, and promoted an agenda that reduced the power of the United States. During that time, Bush was quiet. So, now he has something to say, and the only reason I can see is that the subverted government is being exposed and those that pull the strings of former politicians are not happy about being exposed to the light of justice.

I'm disappointed, but not surprised. Washington is full of garbage, and the smell is becoming nauseating. 

Perception

There is a report that Trump disrespected the widow of a U.S. soldier. From my perspective, he didn't, but with the constant negative narrative being constantly created by those that don't like the President, rather he did, or didn't, doesn't matter. There's a strong effort to destroy the ability of Trump to lead. The methods used to cause problems include misconstruing comments, and outright lies.

If we had more honest people in the media, these types of stories would be discredited, or not reported at all. Since we don't, my advise to the President is to go on the offensive. That's the only way to beat enemies.

Smoke, Mirrors, Insurance and Don't Bend Over

Supposedly, Congress is working hard on reducing the cost for health insurance. I don't believe them. They screwed this up in the beginning, and anything they do will only make things worse for those that don't have the benefit of public money for private consumption.

Congress, and most government entities, proved long ago they couldn't find their ass with a map, and a flashlight. Expecting any productive changes is like expecting to win the lottery. The odds are against either.

Setting an Example

There are too many rotten tomatoes in Washington. Whey will someone become the example of what is unacceptable, and let the rest know they're next?

In a Matter of Minutes

It's almost amazing how I pissed off a few liberal family members with just a few comments. I'm guessing they can't quite understand their philosophy isn't shared by those that work, watch their tax dollars squandered, and really couldn't care less on their sexual orientation.

.....and the horse they rode in on.

While Hollywood Crumbles

The Weinstein debacle permanently tarnished Tinseltown.  Although this doesn't bother me at all, since I've not been to a new movie in decades, or watched much television, it means many of the nuts-and-bolts of the industry can face financial hardships.

Elsewhere, Isis fighter are dying in the thousands. Locals, having to do something with the bodies, are burying them with bulldozers, avoiding any religious ceremony, and wishing they had a way to allow the wild dogs to eat the bodies, without any health concern. I think they are angry.

California wildfires are destroying the lives of many. Hopefully, the 300 plus missing person reports are inflated by incorrect information. I'll pray for them. I just went through a disaster, and mine had a temperature much lower than the melting point of aluminum.

Obamacare is being removed like removing a tick on a dog, except it's being removed under the direction of committees, involves multiple tools, and I have the feeling this won't turn out well. Removing a tick in this way can lead to all types of infections, infection, and in the worst situations: amputations. 

The NFL is vacillating between indecision, and incompetence. Considering the amount of money involved, and the number of fans, this one might be decided by a coin toss. At the pace this is going, some players might have to borrow a coin for the toss. I'm sure they can sell a sports car to pay back the loan.

Things Change

I had to work in a refinery today, which meant fire retardant coveralls. That means clothes that don't breathe, and are hot. With a high near 94, it wasn't pleasant.

We have another hot day; and I have much to do outside tomorrow, but it will be taking care of some personal tasks. It will be the last hot day of the year, because Sunday promises a front, which will bring high temperatures only in the seventies.

I've heard our Falls are similar to the Summers in many northern climates. I don't know, but do know why some people love Summer so much, if they are like our Fall.

The seasonal change is finally arriving. What Winter brings will only be known over the next few months. Hopefully the weather will be much less extreme as what as experienced by Harvey. Local folks need some relief, and some time to recover.

Well I'll Be.....

Hollywood, and many in the entertainment industry, are finding out what a shark feeding frenzy is like. How this ends up will be interesting, but some of the favored sharks are sure to be consumed.

Maybe we'll get some quality entertainment in the future. If not, I'll continue to not watch the multiple things I refuse to watch.

Pocket Book Punishment

The NFL is now scrambling to correct the error of allowing players to dictate rules, and policy. With huge losses in revenue, the error will be expensive, and last longer than they might like. As my grandmother once said: " You burned your butt, so you get to sit on the blister".

So Much Garbage

Hollywood is full of garbage. So is Washington. Between them, and the media, it's apparent the changes needed are more than necessary.

It All Depends....

Today is Columbus Day, unless you're some ass-clown that doesn't like Italians. That, and hates pizza, and Rome, and marinara sauce, and the Pope. There can be no other explanation for some to call today "Indigenous Native Day". It's obvious they don't like Italians.

Italian Lives Matter

It's Not What I Figured

We had a wet August, and then Harvey at the end of August. With all that rain, and clouds, I figured we'd get early fronts, and have a cool Autumn. Not so.

Today, and over the last few days, it's been in the seventies in the morning, and somewhere around 90 in the afternoon. It reached over 100 on my back porch today, so it was brutal heat all afternoon.

There's not any real relief in sight, although we're supposed to get some drier air on Tuesday, and morning lows in the upper sixties after the front.

I don't know what the next few weeks will bring, but know I don't want much rain. We've had enough for awhile, and I want my yard to dry completely.

Early Morning Wait

It's nice this morning. It's calm, the temperature is around 70, and the high clouds make a leaden sky. The squirrels are loud in the trees, even though their movements would be obscured by the lightest of wind. 

There's a hurricane in the Gulf. I'm on the west side, and the center will be far enough to the East, where the strong effects will not be felt. 

The outer rain bands are visible on the radar, and slowly moving my way. They'll start arriving late morning, and the only question will be how much rain will fall. 

The wind will soon arrive, although I'll probably only see a brisk north wind, which will move cooler, drier air toward the storm. This is good, because the water is already cooler near shore. Both are the bane of a hurricane and can lower the winds of a category one to that of a strong tropical storm. The difference can make a lower surge, which may mean some are spared the high tide. 

I'll watch this today, and probably stay close to the house. Many will be evacuating from the hurricane, and traffic will show the difference. Since Harvey, traffic has been worse than usual, and this will definitely not help. 

I Don't Think They're Paying Attention

Someone loses their mind, shoots innocent people, and the clamor to remove firearms from U.S. citizens is all that's heard for weeks.

Meanwhile, citizens buy more guns, and firearm manufacturer become a good investment.

I don't think those that want to destroy the Second Amendment are paying attention. Not only will they never get their way, their insanity only makes those without a firearm realize they may one day have to protect their right, so they go buy a gun.

Presenting statistics, reviewing history, applying logic, and attempting to sway the opinion of anti-gun advocates is a waste of time. Those wanting to remove the right to keep, and bear, firearms don't have the ability to reason, and too many can only be described as insane.

The Answer

There are tons of theories,  explanations and expert opinions on why the shooter in Vegas killed those people. It's an easy answer: He wanted to kill all those people.

Without the shooter to explain his motives, nobody will ever know the reason he wanted to kill all those people, and I doubt the powers-to-be will release enough information for the general public to make an educated guess.

Things We'll Probably Never Know

After the shooting in Las Vegas, I had many things cross my mind. Unfortunately, I have a feeling many of the following things will be hidden forever.

1. The forensics of the brass, bullets, and weapons.
2. Where the $100,000 was sent, and to whom.
3. Videos recovered from the hotel, and the room.
4. Full autopsy report on the shooter.
5. Contacts, associates, and friends of the shooter.
6. A full report on police officers debriefed right after the room was secured; and what they saw.
7. Who secured the area, and their report on possible corrupted evidence.

More things will pop up as more is revealed, but this one doesn't fit in many ways. As more is known, maybe the experts can dig through what is known, and force anyone trying to hide evidence in revealing more.

Doubling Down

The news is reporting how many NFL players kneeled during the national anthem. I guess they think they're doing something important. From my perspective, it's cowardly, and the repercussions will show how many will change their stance, when their jobs are threatened.

When Disaster Strikes

I've been reading about the relief efforts for Puerto Rico. It appears the effort to help is hampered by the effort to have someone else do the heavy work.

I watched a few hurricane relief efforts. Those that had citizens wanting to work unhampered, and only wanting some aid to help with cleaning up the mess, were more efficient. While the financial aid was important, the effort to return to a normal life was more important.

Those living on the public dole, who have everything available with a phone call, or a quick trip to an office, have a different attitude. With initiative lost to a false security, too many expect too much, without any effort. It's sad to see, but it's a lesson to society. Nothing is free, and expecting such is foolish.

A Taste of Fall

It's a beautiful morning. Light wind from the North, the temperature is around 65, and the humidity was swept to the Gulf. It's a good change, and I hope it last for the few weeks it sometimes lasts during autumn.

Flu Shot

I've had the flu only a few times during my life. My last case was decades ago, It started as a slight headache during the morning, a splitting headache by the end of work, chills before dark, and a high fever, which finally broke early the next morning. During the fever, I had a hard time concentrating, and the muscle aches were dreadful. After finally falling asleep, I awoke in a bed soaked with my sweat.

I missed work for a few days, which was necessary, since nothing wanted to stay in, and I would have been nearly useless.

Returning to work was tough, since it was late Fall,  and I was bridge carpenter. I was worn out by the end of what were shorter days, and would have stayed home instead, but I needed the money. The annoying cough yielded plenty of phlegm, which made me wonder if I had pneumonia.

It took about two weeks for the sore throat to finally end. Afterwards, I was apprehensive for a long time. Being that ill is a mind jolting experience.

So, I take a flu shot every year. I know many people think it's useless, or dangerous, or fear it's an effort by the government to kill us all, but I don't care. I haven't had the flu in a long time; even with exposure. I like that.

It's All About Who We Elect

At the local level, we have some voice in keeping the reprobates out, but that too is iffy.

At the state level, it's the same thing, but big money is involved in keeping those in politics firmly attached to the power and money.

At the national level, we only get to choose who the media, and those in power, decide will be a candidate.

Otherwise, until we tar and feather a few of the rascals, we'll keep getting screwed by the elite that make the laws.

The Trade-Off

From things I've seen on the internet, there are some really pissed off fans of many teams. Not only are they swearing off any watching of the NFL, they're burning jerseys and other NFL items.

Where does this go? What is the trade off? I think it will be monetary at first, but with a reduced NFL, college teams will find more revenue...at first. Time will change the importance of the sport, and other sports will find new fans, with new revenue.

What about the NBA, and professional baseball? I think the players will expose their posteriors too, and the franchises will lose substantial revenue; especially when advertisers realize their ads are not being presented to what were once their biggest consumers.

There's always a trade-off, and the trade off for ignorance is never good. This all started with one player being allowed to show his ignorance, which may be good. It exposed much more ignorance, and maybe galvanized enough to show their pride in the United States.

So, Do You Really Want to Go There?

Many NFL players kneeled during the National Anthem, which showed their solidarity to some ethereal protest. I'm pretty sure they have no idea that their contract states they can be canned for this activity. So, I'm wondering if they really want to go there.

When it comes right down to it, the NFL teams will side with the most money. I don't think that money is coming from vagrants - chasing a few bucks in fake protests - and the players will soon realize those they're supporting don't exist, and their paychecks will end too soon.

I'm thinking some of the players should have payed more attention, when studying.

Things Change

Too many players in the NFL decided their opinion is more valuable than the salaries they're payed to entertain. As this progresses, I think they'll find their job is not only threatened, any money they receive will be substantially less than any offered before.

Repost "The Stars Were Like Diamonds Scattered on Black Velvet"

When I first stepped outside this morning, the Winter constellations were visible in all their glory. I stopped for a moment, and remembered an event from my past. I wrote about it before, so if you read it, read it again. 

Enjoy


It was after midnight, the wind was from the north and the temperature was a little above freezing. A call from the bank let me know we lost 8 million cubic feet of gas and it was my duty to wake someone to go find the problem.

I don't remember who I woke, but I knew before they reached the control room which well was down. The analog meter on 1351-13 was still and I had a pretty good idea it shut in.

The well was a satellite well about a mile from the production platform. It stood alone, without any production equipment, since it was close enough to just pipe to the main platform. We called the boat to go take a look.

Natural gas controls on the platform were simple. Pressure pilots were part of the safety system, which included the pilots and the fire loop. A problem with either would shut the automatic valve and close the well.

It didn't take long to reach the platform. A thorough check revealed no problem, so the gauger felt it was only some moisture in the controls and the well could be put back on line.

I stayed at the platform to slowly turn the manual valve until it was at full pressure. If the CRBBM stayed in the open position, the gauger was right and they would retrieve me when he made the final checks on the main platform.

They left me with a radio. The guager would call, when he was ready for me to start.

Over the next few minutes, the noise from the work boat faded. As they pulled to the main platform, I could barely hear the engines as the boat maneuvered to tie to the structure. When the engines were shut down, the only sounds were the occasional fog horn, the light chop against the structure and the sound of the wind.

There are few experiences in life like the next twenty minutes. I was completely alone, my flashlight provided all the light to be found and the awesome grandeur of a winter night was mine to be enjoyed.

The air was crisp, full of the smell of cold air and found any weakness in my heavy clothes. I pulled my collar up, my sleeves over my gloves and looked up to the stars.

Like myriads of diamond scattered on black velvet, the stars seemed to hang right over my head. Just a simple reach, and I could scrape them from the sky; they'd rain down, like jewels, so I could fill my pockets.

I was awed. Maybe it was the moment, or the splendor of the event, but I was overjoyed with the opportunity. What I observed, and felt, could never be described with words. My soul was touched and nothing could ever describe the feeling.

Eventually, the gauger called, I put the well back on line and the boat returned. I was soon back to the platform and found the gauger was on the way back to the living quarters to finish their interrupted sleep.

The rest of the night passed without any more problems. Soon, I woke the cook; then the crew and had my morning meal. The night was over, but the memory will last forever.

Entertainer Ignorance

Too many entertainers show their ignorance, and spout the current mantra of liberals. What they don't realize is that it not only hurts them, it hurts their industry, and many not only don't want to be entertained any longer, they want the industry to be punished financially by low revenue.

It's What I'm Used To

September brings different days. It will be hot, but the humidity will be lower. Nights bring temperatures just above 70 degrees, which is a lower temperature than the setting on most air conditioners.

The clouds are different. Where Summer brought towering cumulus clouds, early Fall brings thin stratus, that offer moments of cool, while they shade for a few moments.

Most of all, it's obvious the weather is changing. Soon, a front will bring temperatures much lower, and the fog. The frontal passage will bring brilliant blue skies, and clear nights, but soon, the fog will form in the night, and driving will be hazardous.

We're at the last of our constant vigil for hurricanes. Fronts push them away, and the apprehension finally leaves. This year was bad, but many are not. It's a good thing to not have any dangerous weather, and it allows moments of peace as the seasons change.

Pfffft!

Several large corporations receive billions in federal subsidies, and only give a few hundred thousands each to the Red Cross, which uses the lions share of the money to pay exorbitant salaries, advertise on national networks, and purchase expensive real estate.

Meanwhile, people that paid taxes their entire lives are struggling to survive, and wondering if they will. I hope they reflect their dissatisfaction by avoiding boiler house charities, and the products of corporate welfare companies. Their tax dollars may be abused, but they still control what they have left on pay day.

Pfffft!

Something I've Observed

With all the flooding, water marks are noticeable on the homes. Usually, there's a line of debris, but some marks are discoloration from the water.

One thing I've observed is the height of the marks correspond to the local road, or local freshwater canal, or highway. Otherwise, the drainage was impeded enough to allow the water to build to level where it finally spills over the obstruction.

I'm wondering if anyone affected noticed this too, and the crapstorm will soon start. Losing a house to natural causes is one thing; losing it because the engineering of certain things neglected to consider 200 year flood events is another.

I Guess I Could Complain

But, I won't. My inconveniences are minor, and my blessings are huge.

It's a Lot Like Prositution

Prostitutes advertise their wares, push for the deal, and exchange money for sexual favors. So does the media. The most sensational, graphic, or shocking story is used to lure viewers, so they can be entertained for a few minutes, and after the event, the media is looking for more "John's" to pay the bills, and keep the ratings high.

The current hurricanes are a good example. With the approach of Harvey, the media was constantly showing forecasts, people trying to evacuate and trying to keep their ratings up. When it struck, the initial reports were on Rockport, Texas, which received the worst of the landfall damage. As the storm moved toward Houston, and the flooding began, Rockport was forgotten, and the new sensational news reports were aimed at showing the devastation of the water.

Now we have Irma. All the Harvey damage is almost forgotten, and someone is suffering in Rockport. Their life is ruined, they have few resources, and they're wondering how they'll survive. They feel forgotten, and they are. They aren't "sensational", and the media could care less about their suffering.

Meanwhile, in the ivory towers of network television, those without a clue continue their efforts to keep the ratings up, and turn another few tricks for the pimps that sign their paychecks.

They Call Them Roads

One remarkable thing I noticed after observing the area wide flooding are the roads. For all practical purposes, they're dams, and those that built below the level of the road, were most affected.

Anyone that's building should always consider the location of the nearest road, and build above the top of the road. One foot minimum, and 2 feet as a good start.

After 42 Inches of Rain

I'll probably write more in the future, but right now I've been blessed with electricity once again, the water is way down, and the terrible feeling of seeing water were it never was before is over for now.

I lost power, had to rough it for a few days, but what I consider divine guidance led me to buy land in a place that doesn't flood, even with 42 inches of rain. Many in the area lost everything to water that rose in unbelievable amounts over the time when it was darker than most ever experienced, and they awoke to find they were wading in water rising rapidly.

After two major hurricanes, I can write this was the most devastating I ever experienced; and it was only a tropical storm.

It's still early in the relief process, and many are sheltered in places with resources dwindling rapidly. Tomorrow will bring more relief, and the long process of returning to normal will begin.

Fifteen Inches and Probably More

According to the NOAA precipitation totals, somewhere between 15 and 20 inches of rain have fallen in my locality. That's very much, and more forecast to come.

We have a little break in the rain, so I'll venture out to see the results.

Aftermath

Years ago, hurricane Celia devastated Corpus Christi, and surrounding areas. Relatives of mine stayed, but lost their entire second story during the storm. It took months for them to regain any close semblance to the life they once enjoyed.

Such things leave lasting memories, new building regulations, officials with information won by a disaster, and people still alive with knowledge of how to cope. This is invaluable, and calmer minds deal with the event.

With so many newer structures built to better standards, avoidance of building in dangerous areas, and the knowledge of where it's safe to stay, or when to evacuate, the damage will be bad, but devastation will be isolated.

The media will not have much to place in the gristmill, so those interested will have to dig deep to find information.

What if It's All Hype?

Hurricane Harvey is within minutes of having the eye wall coming ashore. While the media is broadcasting a category 4 storm, the surface winds are not showing such extreme wind conditions. Of course, some station are not broadcasting, which means they were either destroyed by the winds, or were turned off to cover the asses of those that were a little to extreme with their hype.

Harvey hasn't followed any of the narrative at this point. The computer models, which are many, can't come up with a definitive path, and the media is lapping up the gravy; along with the retailers that made a boat-load of money selling to the panicked citizens buying supplies that will be thrown away in a year.

Time will tell how this works out, but I have the feeling only a few will actually know what the data actually contained.

The forecasters were spot on. The forecast rain was as tremendous as anticipated, and a historical event will be remembered by anyone affected.

It's Umbrella Time

Forecaster are calling for a 10 to 20 inch rain potential over the next three days. That's more than any drainage structure is designed to handle, and the major flooding may soon be a possibility.

We've had some tropical systems over the years. Hurricanes were the worst, but even some weak systems stalled, or meandered, for days; and the result was widespread flooding.

I'm watching this one, and hoping the electricity stays on.

Somebody was Sleeping?

Modern U.S. destroyers are marvels of technology, high speeds, and maneuverability....unless it's around large, lumbering cargo ships, or tankers. For some reason, they just can't avoid being broadsided by these large ships. 

Maybe it's like rabbits staring at dim headlamps and becoming mesmerized. I don't know, but whatever the reason, too many sailors are dying. 

While Driving Evening Before Last

My wife, and I, were driving along the secluded back roads around our home. As we traveled, we noticed how many cattle were scattered in the fields along the road. With the late Summer green, and the sun low in the West, it was pleasant as we discussed our thoughts.

We talked about how too many are clueless about what it takes to feed a nation. The acreage is enormous and the dedication of ranchers, and farmers, is ignored by those that are only three days from chaos, if the food isn't produced and brought to the cities.

My brother rode out hurricane Rita in Houston due to his job. He had safe shelter, so the storm wasn't a concern, except for the cleanup. Everything went well, but his trip to a grocery store right after the storm was a sobering experience.

With everyone evacuating, the shelves were almost empty. All the aisles usually filled with what people wanted had slim pickings, if any. Those returning were forced to do without, until the shelves were filled again. It was about guaranteed, but I doubt any really thought of the problems that would have developed if they didn't.

I don't think many in the capitol, that live in the large metropolitan centers, help broadcasting on the alphabet networks, or are too young to know better, realize many of their goals, ideas, lifestyles, and agendas are alien to those that work hard to insure they have comfortable lives. They can't exist without what is brought to them, yet those they thumb their nose at can survive for the entire lives on what they know they can produce.

We live in interesting times, and maybe too many are too comfortable. For those that work hard, surviving would only be an inconvenience. For those that are completely dependent on those that produce, they're only a few days from anarchy. They should think about this, and change their attitude.

Today's Ephiphany

After watching my family shrink over the years, many people I admired greatly are now gone. Those left rarely attempt to contact me, many are batshit crazy liberals, and I realize I not only don't care for the opinion of many, some have such a bizarre view of reality, I doubt I could spend any time with them without becoming angry, or pointing out how they've succumbed to a bad case of the dumbass.

I don't know if this is normal, but it's my reality.

End of Careers

In response to the collision of the USS Fitzgerald with the ACX Crystal, the Navy will punish the commanding officer, the executive officer and the senior enlisted sailor. They will be relieved of duty and disciplined.

While there are a few theories about what happened, including a conspiracy theory the Fitzgerald was intentionally rammed, the basic fact is a U.S. warship was rammed, while underway. That's unforgivable, except in the most extreme of conditions, and those in charge will be removed from duty after such an incident.

My brother served in the Coast Guard. My father served in the Coast Guard and the Navy. I doubt either would have been sympathetic to those in charge during the collision. Of all the things that can go wrong at sea, having those in command unable to prevent a collision with all the technology now available is unforgivable; and a terrible lack of responsibility to those on board expected to trust those in charge.

It Will Reach a Point

Most people enjoy their peace; especially when it's their daily dealing with life. That includes going to the grocery store, some errand running, personal dealings with the local government, and ferrying children to and from school.

So, with the ass clowns stirring things up, inciting riots, destroying property, and generally causing as much mayhem they can get away with, most people will reach the point they're had enough, and the reactions might not be pretty.

While the larger cities may be more tolerant of the shenanigans, smaller cities will not be tolerant, and those so inclined to cause people to fear their daily travels will find they're days of fun are over.

I don't know who funds these groups, but they're the problem, and the problem needs to be eliminated.

It's the Evaporator Coil

Yesterday, in the process of checking out my truck ac, I put some dyed freon in the system. Today, I crawled under the truck, found oil on the frame, and after checking with the ultraviolet light, found it glowed bright green.

The dyed oil is from the system, and the reason it's on the undercarriage is that that's where the evaporator coil drain is right above that spot.

So, tomorrow the truck goes back into the shop that changed the evaporator coil over a year ago. Since it's such an odd event for the coil to fail, my contention is the coil was faulty, and they should repair it for free. We'll see.

I Have the Red Ass

A little over a month ago, I changed the compressor on my truck air conditioner. I flushed the system, added the correct amount of oil to the compressor, changed the accumulator, replace the screen/ orifice, and pulled a vacuum on my system. The vacuum held, I placde freon and everything was good....until this morning.

On the way to work, I noticed the ac wasn't cooling. When I had time at lunch, I checked the pressure, and it was low.

This evening, I added some freon, checked the pressure, and the final result? The compressor is not working.

So, I'm pissed. At the time of year, when the heat is worst, I have to deal with crappy auto parts.

Bleh!!!!

So, What Happened?

There was a fiasco in Charlottesville, Virginia over the weekend. Some terribly ignorant, or determined official gave a permit to those that would obviously collect violent dissenters, and then the police stood down. Whatever the motivation, the decision led to what anyone else would call a train wreck about to happen.

One was killed, when a young man drove into a crowd of people There are no facts stating his motivation, and the new narrative by the media is he was a conservative Republican with an agenda.

So, what happened? An official was either directed, or decided to give a group of radical individuals the opportunity to create mayhem, and injure innocent people. With an obvious directive for the police to stand down, only the worse could happen.

Personally, I believe it was an orchestrated event, with those that realize huge profits from hedge funds right in the middle. They have huge resource, can buy any corrupt official, and the media is too stupid to realize they're puppets for those they constantly decry as evil.

Is there a solution? Yes, stop watching any of the alphabet networks, including your favorite crappy sitcom, and start educating those you know about how they're nothing but pawns in the effort to create havoc for money, and power.

It's Probably All Crap

With all the posturing by North Korea, and by the United States, all I can think of is the two nations talking in private, keeping the B.S. stirred, and the media lapping it up like a kitten with spilled milk.

Maybe I'm too skeptical, but I doubt seriously North Korea could launch a nuclear warhead to their beach, and the United States has enough anti-missile hardware on station to prevent anything beyond. Otherwise, it's all just part of the grand scheme to keep enough tension to influence the money in the favor of those that profit most from building war machinery.

Somewhat Amazing

With all the news that's important, many media outlets are reporting on the court battle between a DJ accused of grabbing Taylor Swift's butt, and Taylor Swift.

Taylor Swift says she was grabbed, reported the incident, and smiled for the fans, as the meet-and-greet continued. The DJ says he didn't, and is suing for losing his job.

I guess Taylor didn't have the mental acuity to slap the crap out of the DJ. That, or she realized the photograph of the DJ's hand appearing near her butt would look suspicious.

Anyway, with the inability of Congress to repeal Obamacare, the media attempting to stir up war, and the continuing investigation to find out if Trump helped Russia influence the election are not nearly as important. Maybe they should attempt to pull fingerprints from Taylor Swift's butt, or get some DNA sample. I'm sure they could find at least one volunteer for the job.

Inflation and Not Paying Attention

Inflation, since 2008, requires you to spend 13 cents more for each dollar to buy the same thing you could buy for a dollar. If that doesn't affect your thoughts of the government, nothing will. It's like adding water to milk, except most people would raise hell, if they found out the milk they bought was 13 percent of added water.

Understanding Dieting

The physics of dieting to lose weight are simple. If your caloric intake is less than required, your weight will decrease. Reverse the process, and your weight will increase. Even small changes eventually have huge results.

So, there you go. As a physics teacher once told me: "It's easy to lose weight. Just get up from the table, while you're still hungry".

Your'e welcome.

So, What's Next?

Mueller impaneled a grand jury. In most situations, this means he's justifying expenditures, possibly getting vengeance, or pursuing a legacy. Whether this is what's happening will only be known in the future.

There's another possibility: Due to the political nature of his appointment, and his knowledge of how damaging his opinion can be, his decision might be to absolve him of any political motivation, and allow what's considered the people's right. He can present all the evidence he's accumulated, give it to the grand jury, and since the evidence is so tenuous, if not non-existent, the final decision of whether Trump, or any of his cohort, did something that demands a warrant will finally rest with a panel of citizens charged with determining whether an indictment is required.

Time will tell, but the entire event is tainted with political motivation, and an unwillingness of too many to corrupt the liberties demanded by the Constitution. The guidelines established by the Constitution were followed, and Trump was elected by the correct paths to follow. This irritated many, showed a weakness of perception by those too willing to think they are special, and led to some of the most seditious efforts to destroy a government founded on principals of liberty.

Should I Hold My Breath?

According to news sources, A.G. Jeff Sessions is to make an important announcement on Friday. The announcement is to inform about the criminal leaks in the government.

Unless he states half the Obama Administration will be drawn and quartered at sunrise on Saturday, I have little faith justice will be served; and believe it will be more pandering.

I might be wrong, but history shows the Federal Government is a huge money pit run by those willing to do anything to keep their power. Otherwise, a high dollar committee of reprobates, with the power of law.

Bleh!

Silence of the News Readers

Debbie Shultz is in a world of trouble. Of course, the news readers for the alphabet networks aren't saying much, so it's probably safe to assume she's guilty of something; and there's a good possibility her immediate future is not very rosy. She knows too much, the crimes she might be involved with are very serious, and the crowd she's been running with really don't care much about the rules of law, or the moral consequences of harming your fellow humans.

I think her best move is to come clean, turn over a few of the rotten reprobates she dealt with, and hope they give her a slot in the witness protection program. She'll need that. Regardless of her stature, she's fish bait to those willing to do just about anything to assume, and keep their power. I doubt she follows this advise, and expect just about anything to happen.

As the Leaks are Stopped

It's looking as though the leaks from the current administration are dwindling. As they stop, the liberal media is becoming upset. This I like, since it exposes more of the arrogant stupidity of the media. While they scramble to continue their narrative, Trump shows he's in control by tweeting something they know is his way of poking them with a stick.

I like this; too much of the media is run by those willing to commit sedition to continue their power. They deserve to be punished, and their power needs to be returned to the media willing to publish only verifiable facts.

No More Potato Salad

Those occupying, and working in the lofty towers of Washington, D.C. enjoyed a picnic for too long. It's been a grand picnic, with all they could eat, fun games, days without worry, and what they perceived as a never ending source for their enjoyment. After all, with just a few words written on paper, they could demand more, and the picnic continued.

There's no more potato salad. It's gone, and all the written demands won't produce any more potatoes. They're limited in supply, and the unwashed masses they robbed to continue their picnic not only are almost out of the potatoes they need, they're angry because they know their dire straits, and know those that always had free potatoes will want more, without doing anything, except demanding. They're preparing for what they know will not be pleasant.

So, the picnic continues, but the sun is low in the West, the food is running out, and the night is approaching.

If You Had Any Doubts

John McCain is not good for the United States. Many thought that for years, including fellow P.O.W.'s that were in the Hanoi Hilton. While this opinion wasn't shared by many, it was mostly due to doubts, and ignorance; until last night's vote.

After McCain's vote of no on starting the process of ridding the U.S. of Obamacare, it's more than clear he's only a worn-out, has-been, lying word merchant. He never intended to do what he proclaimed he would in the past.

May his days in the Senate be numbered. He's useless, as far as I'm concerned, and a traitor to the constituents he supposedly represents, and a danger to the safety of the United States.

So, When Will They Arrest Him?

John Brennan, former CIA director is calling for sedition. That, and he did so on CNN. When will Sessions bring charges to a grand jury?

Lining Up the Goats

While the media, and many in the nation's capitol, have tried to ignore a certain prosecution, it's coming, and I'm wondering who will be the goats, when the charges are filed.

It will be interesting to watch, but Hillary Clinton's campaign, and the candidate, have more spare baggage than they can carry. How far the lower echelon will go to protect those above is yet to be determined, but I have the feeling it won't be much. They're vermin, and vermin will devour their own to survive.

Now I Know

I was driving home, when I saw van with a "Jesus Locksmith" on the side. It went by too fast to get the phone number, but still know how to reach him....or not.

GMO Nonsense

Regardless of religious beliefs, professional knowledge, and whatever you're told, all food is genetically modified. That's a fact, and that can't be changed.

Scientifically modified food is a different thing, although the constant attack on such things is usually a strong effort to line the pockets of those that can make money by placing "Non GMO" on their label.

So, although they don't use the the term "Non Scientist Modified" to explain food modified by modern scientific techniques, that's what they mean. Whe they don't use that explanation is beyond me, but I have the feeling political correctness, and typical obfuscation of facts is in play. Maybe it's because scientists, politicians, and mass marketers are not willing to confess their strong effort to mislead the general public. I can understand that, if enough people were more aware of the efforts of all three above, the bounty on all would be substantial, and filled daily.

Something to Think About

The boob tube had a show with windmills, and my wife commented on how she never realized how big they were. I told her of seeing miles of them during a trip to South Texas, and explained how they're basically a money pit, since they wouldn't exist, if our tax dollars weren't wasted on hucksters with the ability to influence the pool of ass clowns we call Congress.

She continued with the conversation and explained how she always found the phrase "save energy" odd. I agreed. After all, what are we saving it for? Tomorrow? Next week? A special Christmas event? We laughed about it, I thought more about it, and decided to write in my blog.

If the truth was known, the energy the government wastes would probably make those with the propensity to cry bawl for long periods of time. That, and how much is wasted on paying for what I call "criminal enterprises" funded by tax dollars.

So, what are we saving energy for? That's easy to answer: We're saving it so some criminal ass-wipe, with the help of the dumbasses we pay to run our government, can have another opportunity to steal our labor, and laugh all the way to the bank.

Laws and Legislation

I'm tired of the garbage created by courts, attorneys, and legislators who are attorneys. The tedious obfuscation created by court documents removes the expeditious reason for good laws. Otherwise, legislation from the bench not only causes harm, it removes the checks, and balances, demanded by the Constitution.

What's the solution? Removing the ability of attorneys from serving in the legislative branch of any government entity for a period of five years after surrendering their license to practice law. That, and the penalty of jail time, fines, and forever unable to practice law by anyone that doesn't follow this rule.

Attorneys are useful, but not nearly as necessary as they think they are. Obfuscation, corruption, and ridiculous methods to address the courts, and to write effective legislation,  made the profession as seedy as that of unethical used car sales people. We have too many, and they need to be culled.