The Latest
Let me know if links don't work. I'm not sure how long some of these things stay on various websites.
Past ramblings...5/29-9/29/5, 9/30-12/22/5
3/23/6
Mr. Cole's other 2 cd's deserve another listen. It's personal music, which I like more and more as I get older, but he's also pretty competent with his instruments. From what I've read, he's more or less given up writing his own and is producing others' music. Both a loss and a good thing. I think this is going to be another case of me really enjoying a couple of songs at first and realizing the genius later. It's easy to listen to until you listen closely...then, at least I, love it. There's more than that which shows at the surface. I'm not disappointed although both of them came at pretty steep prices...out of print apparently. If anyone comes across a copy of "Beer and Sex and Chips and Gravy" by the Macclads, let me know. It's not for the timid so you might not want to listen to it before sending it to me.
This guy makes me laugh. His archives are also pretty good.
Sometimes even a cat can make me smile, or was it the guy with the caption...scroll down to 20060321.1510.
Squatty died recently. He was a radio operator on some of the Combat Talons on which I worked. It's sad, but at least he was found in bed so it was likely peaceful and it's made me remember some good times. Randini, Shep, Splat, Opie, Smokin' Joe and of course Maggie, Waggie and Gaggie....among others. I got three new CD's today, all by Jude Cole. The one I've heard isn't quite at as good as I remember but still has moments that really shine. I'm looking forward to the other two.
3/22/6
I'm getting an inkling that I'm going to be wearing out my remote switching between my favorites for awhile...it's been awhile. I did ask the newly arrived neighbor yesterday about the music and he "sort of" said "it's fine", at least if a Russian and American speaking Deutsch really understand one another.
This is a first...in my old place, which had a huge living room, I eventually grew accustomed to hearing sounds reflecting from behind me...not sure if they were planned or an anomaly, but that's where they came from. First time in this place....only cymbals but hey....this one makes me smile for being sad when you think about it. Favorite # 2. It's so beautifully done even I couldn't completely ruin it although I think Anthony was being nice when he only commented on my breathing..
Ah yes...John Hiatt again. I loaned my "best of" CD to my last landlord's grandson with the hope he'd pick a tinge of "country-blues" in addition to his obsession with heavy metal. I forgot that when I moved and hopefully he's still enjoying it. I have several favorites on it and with Denise excluded because I sent it to her to let her know more about me, the first to guess which three most fit the bill gets five CDs of my choice. Anthony's excluded too since he probably remembers my horrible a cappella rendition of one of them. It sounded good in the shower but he's right...need to work on my breathing. I did get a request from a 5-year-old girl once..."Wichard...sing me the when I was a boy song" over the phone..so that's the only hint. Bad news though...when I ordered Graham Parker's "Struck by Lightning" I didn't look close enough at my order...got a cassette tape. I hope Denise got a CD.
Amazingly, I was passed by a pickup truck today. Normally they're slow and smell of burning oil but these guys must have really been late. It did smell of oil though.
They're taking their own sweet time painting the pool. It's warming up and I'm finding it difficult to motivate myself to get into shape without the eye candy.
3/21/6
That was surprisingly easy. I'll be taking some online courses via the company's intranet and there's some strange software I have to install to access them. I expected it to be a pain to install, but it worked first try.
I wrote this to help a young lady but when I went back and read what I wrote I realized that there was a reason it made sense to me. I've commented fairly often on her page, trying to share my experience, or lack thereof...and I know she at least doesn't mind, but I wonder after reading that whether what I write is more therapeutic to her or me.
Those lyrics fit a lot of people I imagine. You wait in the wings....I'm famous for this, trusting that my competence or attractiveness will get me noticed by those whose attention I'm seeking. Like a Saturday flirt...I'm not sure how to interpret "Saturday" but I flirt fairly well. I do commit but I'm not easy. Protecting the judge...makes sense if you view yourself as the judge, which makes sense for any egocentric animal. You don't want to get hurt...who does? Once in a moment...I'm a fatalist in a lot of ways...shit happens, but a lot of it isn't under your control...it all comes to you...who hasn't had a moment like this? It's one of the best feelings in the world when you "get it". Soon as you get it....this is only explained by the second line...you want something new. There's another line from a song, I think it's Rainbow, that says this better...It's not the kill, it's the thrill of the chase.
3/20/6
Nicely done Mr. Moore. It's an article almost praising the Huskies...as much as a Cougar can and it brought several smiles to my face.
3/19/6
This is my next experiment in cooking. I've wanted to do it for awhile but I don't like working with flour. I'll probably bake mine because steaming dough just doesn't sound right. The ones I had in Hawaii were really good so give it a shot...give me hints if it works and you beat me to it.
I woke up late, a little after halftime and UW was down by 11. I almost thought about rolling back over but decided to stay up. Wasn't much going on at work today anyway so I didn't have to be alert. It was worth it. 67-64 and the Dawgs are in the sweet sixteen for the second year in a row. They'll face the winner of the Kentucky/Connecticut game.
Not sure where this rain came from...other than the sky. It was supposed to rain this morning but didn't and the satellite photo looked clear, but just as I fired up the grill it started. Fortunately it sprinkled until I was finished cooking.
I keep seeing my cousin's son Levi's name in the paper getting hits for Chehalis' baseball team. I'd heard he was good, but starting pitcher as a sophomore is good, not to mention his hitting, at least I think he's a sophomore.
3/18/6
I think I've said it before, probably on my audio page, which is where this really should be, but listening to a band that plays beautifully simplistic music, like the Cars, really brings out the clarity this system is able to produce. the difference between something and nothing is never more apparent. I wonder if the neighbors are awake...or if they are even there.
Kudos again to Herr Gemein for building this fantastic sound system I'm listening to. I often don't realize it until I listen to something I'm intimately familiar with and notice the difference between now and then. Candy-O by the Cars was long a favorite of mine and I can't express the difference.
3/17/6
Some people shouldn't make so easy for others to make fun of them...I know, myself included.
UW won yesterday but I was 10/16 on my picks. Hopefully today will be better. UW wasn't impressive...Brandon Roy was, but the rest of the team was average...they did take care of business. There were a lot of good games though...almost always the case. UW faces Illinois next and that should be a fun game to watch. If both teams play to their potential it could be the best game of the tourney.
3/16/6
Although I'm not worried, I've been wary for awhile now. Some decent advice on how to prepare should the H5N1 virus mutate. The writer's website is here but I linked to this one because there may be good input in the comments.
Damn, I should cook simple stuff more often. That was good. Probably used a bit too much butter, but rib-rubbed chicken breasts, fried mashed potatoes and steamed mixed veggies went down well.
The Huskies play at 4am, for me, against the Utah St. Aggies. Based on team styles, it could easily be a close game but I've got them picked to win the championship so...shoot me.
The Seahawks are doing alright in the off season, so far losing Joe Jurevicius and Marquand Manuel but retaining Alexander, Bernard and Warrick. Hutchinson at guard is tough call. Minnesota offered him a fantastic deal and it will be interesting to see whether they think a guard is worth tackle money. I don't.
Food for thought if you fly a lot.
3/15/6
Another example of the failed policies of the President./sarcasm
3/14/6
Another interesting report from Kurdistan...the part of Iraq that seems to be working best.
Today started out ok then turned windy and dusty and is now raining with thunderstorms. Tomorrow should be a muddy mess. At least I got gas for my grill and didn't have to resort to yesterday's photo. I grilled a couple of chicken breasts coated with my rib rub and am attempting a cajun chicken salad. Purple lettuce, romaine, cucumbers, carrots and pasta. Not sure if I'll use dressing or not until I try it. I still can't get the flame on the grill adjusted right. I may have to try a different color of gas. Every place you get it has different colored bottles but the gray ones just give me big orange flames instead of the blue I'm supposed to get. I've never had blue but it shouldn't look like it does.
3/13/6
My grill ran out of gas today...
3/12/6
We can drive it home...with one headlight. Good song by The Wallflowers but it caused me a bit of trouble even though I'll admit it's a good problem to have. I was sitting outside starting a new book, actually rereading, after dinner and put on the CD. I've listened to this song on this system before but not often. The bass line is very busy but for some reason today it struck me that a lot of it was being done in pretty quick triplets. I was never good, but I did get a few blisters from bass strings and know that's not easy. Says even more about the stereo...now I'm listening over and over to see if I'm imagining it. The problem it causes is that I enjoy some of the scenery at the pool and if my music keeps making me come inside...well...
Rugby was disappointing yesterday. Wales and Italy played to a very uninspired draw and Ireland beat Scotland in some nasty conditions, at least I hope that's why they both looked like the US could beat them. I haven't checked on the England/France match yet.
I'm still waiting on photos Tony...
3/11/6
This is what I write like in my dreams. A lot of good memories referenced in there and he brings the right amount of humor to make serious things interesting.
The dixie chicks look seriously inbred in their latest attempt at attracting attention...sorry, not worth my time to find a photo, but look closely at the two blondes should you be subjected to seeing them.
I've been experimenting with potato pancakes, which in their present incarnation more resemble balls. Just shred a couple and mix with an egg and deep fry. Tasty but there's obviously a lot of experimenting left to do...not to mention applesauce(memories of kartoffelnkuchen in Germany).
Rugby's on soon so time to run...Wales/Italy(Wales) and Scotland/Ireland(Ireland, but tentatively). Tomorrow it's England/France(no need to post a prediction).
The Huskies got beat by the UO yesterday. That didn't leave me too thrilled when I went to get a new battery. I haven't tested it yet, but I did swap batteries, although just in case maybe I should have backed in to the parking space. It's been a little chilly here, at least for Cyprus. Guess I should be outside seeing if t-shirts are in vogue.
The guy from Antarctica is chronicling his voyage home and I'm starting to think more and more about trying a stint down there. I think about a lot of things though. Apparently the seals of South Georgia are related to several people I know, at least judging from their habits.
3/10/6
Dubai port deal backlash? If so, I'd say it's deserved. I've spent a couple of months in the UAE and while I don't claim to be an expert, I will say that in my opinion they are among our best allies in the region. I thought that our politicians and pundits were better informed. I mean, there certainly seems to be a lot of classified info passing between them. Maybe they are informed and are just trying to score points with someone. I do agree with the President's stance on this issue but also agree with those that point out that when his administration realized that those soon up for reelection were going to run with this one for all it's worth, a quick and thorough public education program should have begun. Most of the politicians are reacting to the uninformed fears of their constituents and while this is understandable, I'm disappointed that they aren't making an effort to educate the public themselves. Heck, I'm thinking about transferring back there and hope this issue doesn't affect the possibility of me doing so.
I blew off the car repair until this afternoon. The Huskies are playing in the Pac-10 hoops tournament this morning and I'm going to listen to the game. If they win they'll play Cal. Hopefully this begins a long run into the NCAA tourney. Game on!
3/9/6
Kind of an up and down day. I got my wireless router yesterday and with minor headscratching it was quickly up and running via one of the wired ports. I had to wait to buy a power adapter for my laptop to test the wireless. So, I bought the power adapter while waiting 6 hours for a meeting with the commander here. Not just me, it was everyone. When I got to my car though, it didn't want to start and it soon sounded like the battery was dying. I did get it to start but drove it around for awhile and parked on a hill when I went in the store just in case. It fired right up. Went back in for the uneventful meeting and the battery was dead again. It was really windy today and I was thinking about opening the doors and letting the wind push me, but went in to get Jeff and Roger instead. It was the first time I push-started a car in reverse. No problems on the way to the garage but I did leave it running while I waited to see if the boss was going to come back from lunch. I got tired of waiting and went home and fortunately...I tested this...the slope from my parking spot to the street should be enough to get me going without me pushing in the morning.
I finally got the wireless network up and running. Without security it was easy but I didn't read far enough in to manual for the security setup to be simple. I'm a guy... It turned out that with Windows XP, which is on my laptop, had a separate section for setup. It works now.
3/7/6
Sorry, I'm just going through my reading list, but it's a rare day that they're all worth reading. Publius this time. 3/5 in this case. Read 3/6 too!
Is it a declaration of war? Or a step toward the inevitable?
As always, Wretchard comes through. 3/6 again. This time on Talibanistan.
I don't know or care enough about the anti-semitic part of this post to comment, but the first paragraph rings true.
Why you should keep an open/closed mind when shelling out way too much money to watch so-called stars excrete their political views. There are very few I respect for their intentions and convictions...Bono comes to mind as at least being willing to see both sides of an issue, but the rest deserve the the dwindling returns the products they shill as entertainment are bringing.
What a productive day for moonbats...food for Al Gore...
At least they shelved the program...(?) otherwise I'd have even more job insecurity than I already do. Not that I'm worried about a job, just the particular program I work on. I wouldn't have minded working on that one though, if the article is to be believed.
Michelle Malkin has some good stuff today(scroll down to 3/6).
It's interesting what 25 words can do...and they're not the ones that follow this ""The slogan “Yankee go home” can be heard everywhere, but what you don’t hear is the hidden wish Yankee go home and take me with you." -exactly!""
Good and bad sports news...it's not like I was a major fan of his but it's both sad and strange that Kirby Puckett died of a stroke at age 44. On the brighter side, the Seahawks signed Shaun Alexander, likely keeping him a career Seahawk. Also, Brandon Roy is the first Washington Husky to be named Pac-10 Player of the Year in 20 years. The team is coming together nicely in time for the tournaments. Kudos to Coach Romar! Jon Brockman and Justin Dentmon were named to the all-freshman team so with next years recruiting class, the future looks nice as well.
3/5/6
Early day today, not because of anything bad...I just wanted to get past the beach road before the parade/party started. I thought it was over because they had one last weekend but Paul told me there was some sort of Carnival event and, having driven through them before, I chose not to do so again. Sundays are in general a decent day for driving home except for the area where all the workers from Sri Lanka, Phillipines and various other countries gather to do something. There's a Western Union there so they're probably sending money home. Anyway it's crowded and the pedestrian traffic is not well behaved. For most of them it's their only day off so more power to them. I can't say much about the people going to church either though. There's an old one near the old port that's pretty popular but on days like today, especially at 9am, do they really have to park in the middle of the road? Fortunately traffic is light at 9am and it didn't get too jammed up...at least while I drove around them.
Not much progress on the didgeridoo...I'm waiting to borrow a VCR from Jeff so I can watch the instructional tape that came with it, at least that's my current excuse. It's a little cloudy today, but in general the weather's been nice. In fact, I think I'll go enjoy it.
3/3/6
The good old days...
Lots of good stuff on Publius Pundit, scroll down at a minimum until you read about the revolutionary babe, but by all means keep reading. Good stuff!
On a sadder note, I had to cancel a credit card today. I checked it last night and a company that showed up as j*j2connect charged me for 250, 30, 30, then a credit of 280, then a charge of 250. They make software that combines email, fax an voicemail and I can't imagine where they got my CC number. It wasn't even the card I use for online shopping. So, especially if you travel, keep an eye on your bills.
3/1/6
I'll add my name to the list of signatories.
2/28/6
Oh yeah, the photos below are normal size so it won't take forever to download them.
Well, you can see my lazy, mature teak after the recent cleaning...along with the didgeridoo. Here's what it looked like during the process. It's going to take some practice to learn how to play the thing, especially the circular breathing...check the link below.
Happy Birthday Dad and Colton. I got my didgeridoo today. When I was in Seattle, there was a store near Pike Place called Lark in the Morning that carries unique musical instruments. It was either bagpipes or this. I'll take a photo later. I've made my first noise with it and it sounds pretty cool. We'll see how far I get with this. It could end up being a nice thing to hang on a wall.
This is from someone who's in Iraq. It's interesting to contrast it with what's being reported elsewhere.
2/27/6
Bummer...this blog's ending, at least the guy who writes it is heading home. He'll probably arrive back in the UK at RAF Brize-Norton, one of my least favorite places, mainly due to the pains it gives me while traveling.
The patio wasn't really done. I have teak furniture and it needed cleaning. In my continuing furtherance of the moral superiority of laziness I opted for the mature gray look vs. the freshly polished original look. The water I used cleaned today's layer of dust and I hope I don't have to clean it again tomorrow.
2/26/6
Another view on India...re the article linked below.
Patio's done and Ireland won.
There's a lot to be read into this article...draw your own conclusions. I agree with the President.
I've managed to put off finishing the cleaning of the patio until 1543 and since it's unlikely I'll be able to write much longer than five minutes..that will be my late afternoon. I should finish in time for the Wales/Ireland rugby match. It's on the Welsh station that comes across my satellite and at some point I figured out that "Y Clwb Rwgby Y 6 Gwalad" approximates "The Rugby Club The 6 Nations". Don't ask me to pronounce it. I'm going with Wales this year. I usually pick against them, partly to antagonize Rob and because the Irish usually field a good side, but I was thoroughly unimpressed with the Irish in the first half against France. They'll likely now play like they did in the second.
Excuse the drivel I may write...I'm really trying to avoid the patio. As an aftereffect of yesterday's cleaning I was greeted with the sight of a snail that crawled out of my garbage can and was making its way up mall this morning. There were several that got swept up with the leaves and went in to my trash can and one tried to escape. They left nasty black stains on the patio where they were sitting... but it cleaned right up.
I just checked and I can see the sky again. It was nasty again this morning with dust. It was almost worse than fog. I started driving in when it was dark and the streetlights were on, but about halfway there it was light enough for the photoreceptors to shut them off and I had to slow down until I got used to it. Damn, I need to do dishes too! I've been better about it, but it's burgers tonight and the pan I want to use is dirty.
2/25/6
Damn! I got to the rugby game at halftime(damn time zones) and Italy was up on France 12-8, but, alas, they couldn't hold on. It was that kind of day. I finally did get off my ass and clean the patio. I may post a photo to prove it.
Dust is the word of the day. It's not windy, but it looks like fog. I can feel it in my eyes after being outside. I'll probably need to mop the patio again tomorrow.
Here's a post about a guy who had his DNA traced way, way back. Interesting stuff, especially with the extra work he's added to it. Mainly I'm just putting off housecleaning...well, mainly the patio. It's getting nice enough to start hanging out outside and grilling regularly, so I'd better do something. Maybe devise some new cat defenses as well...I'm thinking thumb tacks, but knowing me I'd probably forget about them and end up with one stuck in me.
2/24/6
I got some good advice from a friend the other day. If you know me at all, you'll know that I'll gladly give the same but rarely take it. In this case, I already knew what I wanted to do, which agreed entirely with his advice, but is it for the best? I think so. I'm also selfish. "Lasso that filly." were the operative words. If it were only that easy.
2/22/6
Have I ever mentioned how much I like Jenna Elfman(Dharma&Greg and recently on Two and a Half Men)? Probably, but if you've read my tripe for long, you're used to me repeating myself. Her legs and my neck, maybe not a perfect match but it would be fun trying, except for the likelihood that she could tickle my feet with her toes. Have I ever mentioned how much I dislike the CD music format? You know the drill. It's not the sound but unwrapping them. First, trying to get my fingernails, when I haven't just trimmed them, through the cellophane. Why not make it like a pack of gum? Then, you're rockin' and rollin'...trying to keep the rhythm going and when you try the next CD...damn thing's taped shut...more fingernail damage.
Sometimes destroying your eardrums, regardless of how enjoyable it may sound, isn't a good thing. I got a shipment from Amazon today, Tom Cochrane, Red Rider, the Cars and Wallflowers. I've always liked the Wallflowers, mainly for one song, but also for their name. I'm one. Anyway, I had some Tom Cochrane and Red Rider on and thought my phone might be ringing. I heard a couple of more rings and then none. Similar things have happened with other bands and phones over the years. A Genesis song, not sure which and my phone in Florida...a band called Coney Hatch had a song with a part that sounded just like from friend Dan saying my name. I don't think I ever stopped turning around to look. Anyway, Anthony finally called. I was starting to wonder what was up. I've heard from Tony and Bryan. He's doing fine, waiting for his household goods shipment so he and Tony can start playing house. He's working too much but has the place to himself while Tony's off getting married. Having Anna around will make playing house with Tony more pleasant than the last time they did it. It sounds like they have a nice place...already bought a pool table! Maybe I should move down and set up my pinball machine...anyway, it was good to hear from him and hopefully Tony's not drinking too much vodka at his reception.
Good music...it's been awhile since I've listened to him.
2/21/6
Not to rub it in, but it's tanning weather again, at least for an hour or so in the afternoon.
Here's the next clusterfuck. I really don't give a damn about either version of the story except for the fact that it seems to be keeping me employed.
This article, and the comments, certainly merit a look. The author is spending some time with the Kurds and the optimist in me says things look promising.
One of several things is happening...either my butt or ass are shrinking or my jeans are expanding. Good news regardless.
2/19/6
The US beat Great Britain in curling 9-8 to make it to the medal round. The sad part about my life is that I actually watched it, along with a cross country ski relay race.
My dad surprised me by answering the phone last night when I called so he's doing better than I thought he might be.
2/18/6
I come from a long line of Dicks. This was in response to a young lady's, as much as you can tell from an internet message board, assertion that my name was hilarious. I think she was really talking about "hairofthedawg", a nick that will kill threads anywhere.
I just love phone calls that start with "Your dad's in the hospital". He's ok for the long run but will be enjoying a lot of peanut butter milk shakes while the multiple fractures in his jaw heal. A bruised lung as well, but he's supposed to already be home in WA and I guess that wasn't too serious. Other passengers were merely complaining about soreness so I'm just glad it wasn't worse. Check your tires before you drive. They did and still one blew during normal driving. Get well dad.
I had an interesting conversation with a gentleman from Iran last night. I did my best not to be offensive while asking what I considered to be ignorant questions about his home, and succeeded, at least in not offending him. He was just a regular guy...enjoying a drink. He said that his view was that most fellow Iranians wished that the government would change, and that said change was on the way, just probably not soon enough for the rest of the world. It was also a tough call to say how the predicted military intervention on their nuclear program would be received. Would freedom from the shackles of religious zealotry outweigh the nationalist sentiment? We couldn't decide.
2/16/6
I'm waiting for some software to download and doing everything I can to avoid doing dishes..successfully so far. My antivirus/internet security software has been pissing me off lately with an email program I like so I'm auditioning others. Norton and Zone Alarm have both failed and PC-illin is up next, at least for a 30-day free trial. Their website said they couldn't sell to me because I live overseas so hopefully I'll be able to make it a permanent version if I like it.
Another mildly amusing story from my trip home...brought to mind because I just asked Glen about it. The night before Denise left we stayed at his place and got up way too early to head to the airport. I was sitting on a footstool tying my shoes when all of the sudden the footrest(and me) fell to the floor. I shared a somewhat sheepish grin with Denise and eventually found something on which I could leave a note..."Sorry about the stool! It shouldn't have called me fat." It was 2 in the morning so give me a break.
19.9 kb/sec...guess I have to do the dishes...damn.
2/14/6
Oh yeah, for anyone who gets my Seahawks' tickets next year and doesn't feel like waiting in the sometimes very long line at the john...try this. Courtesy of my buddy Glen...there's a room with a door that's unlocked if you enter by the door toward the midfield side. Put your cellphone to your ear and sound official why saying "maintenance, coming through". There's a sink and separate drain in there...not sure about the female rest rooms.
This guy gets it and good job 3rd ACR!
In what's probably a first, I washed the dishes shortly after eating. I know to most that wouldn't be a big deal, but I don't like to think about the perfectly good cookware I've thrown away because it was too disgusting to clean after a few weeks in the sink.
Jerry and I forced ourselves to get started on performance appraisals this morning. I'm lucky. He has to do all four of ours and it's a pretty frustrating process. We access our company website in a roundabout way here and by the time you think and type enough BS to hopefully earn you a raise, the connection dies. Of course, my first attempt was nearly complete and instead of cutting and pasting what I had written to a separate file, I clicked on save. I had to do it over. It was hard to decide which of us was cursing more. I'll give the edge to Jerry though because in what was apparently a vivid moment of frustration he made a pot of coffee without the coffee. It made me laugh anyway. First time I had ever seen that happen, but he said he'd done it before.
2/12/6
Thought provoking...one room to go with the housecleaning and it's kind of a bummer that I can't use the scouring powder in the living room. It's mainly dusting and sweeping up the cans of chewing tobacco that I've spilled on the floor over the past few months.
2/11/6
Just go ahead and moo...you know you want to.
I know this has been mentioned at some point during the existence of this regurgitation of my life, but if you reply to me concerning what I write on this site, your email is subject to publication.
2/10/6
Strange to read this while listening to Brian Wilson, but Kofi Annan should have pulled his head out of his ass a long time ago. I vote for several swift kicks to install it there permanently.
Not about anyone in particular, but it's happened...in both directions. Jonathan Richman...
I can't stand what you do, but I'm in love with your eyes.
2/9/6
Wish I felt more like writing about the trip, but for some reason I don't. It's probably because a lot of the feelings I have about it are, well, more personal than I care to divulge. I'm waiting and seeing on a lot of things. One good thing that came out of it is the fact that I'm finally back in the gym. I got tired of standing next to a wonderfully fit looking Denise and me having a gut. I'm starting off slowly so hopefully I won't hurt anything this time.
I love having found the scouring powder...one bathroom yesterday and the other today. There's still a little lime in the downstairs one, but a day's soak should take care of that. Glen and Kim seem pretty happy and although I still haven't met Glen's kids, Kim's daughter Karissa was a pleasure to meet. They had just castrated their pet goat and I really felt sorry for the guy. Denise saw him trying to lay down, but said he just couldn't quite stay there. I'm glad I didn't have to watch that. As usual, I wish I could have spent more time with them, but I say that about everyone every time I'm home.
The more I look at the photos I took, the more I get closer to the point where I realized I had the mode setting wrong. If you look at the Willows photo, it looks to me to be focused on the river, rather than the entire scene. This one looks ok...Mt. St. Helens and these two representations of the weather while we were there...coming...and here, as viewed through and on the window at the Edgewater. I'll try and do better next time.
Let's see...we spent some time on the farm visiting Grandma...Gail stopped by, but most of the farm was too muddy to get around easily, although it didn't stop Bob from giving us a nice 4WD trip along the river. We took Grandma to Red Lobster where Denise told me to remind her to buy a gift certificate for her mom, which of course I forgot to do. I did remember to find one in Lacey on our way back to Seattle for the NFC championship game. Checked into the Edgewater again and had a less than memorable meal at a place that's normally good...name escapes me at the moment and headed out toward the game. Game was a blast and people were going absolutely nuts...had to be there. Oh yeah, apparently I snore. We headed back down south, which is when I got the photo of St. Helens. The upper observatory was closed but it was still a nice trip...the first time we saw the sun except for brief instances. I saw a pizza place where we turned off the interstate so we stopped there and regretted it. Make note of that if you're ever in the area. We headed back to my dad's and my Uncle Chuck and Aunt Barbra stopped by, which was nice. I hadn't seen them in awhile. I got up early the next morning to inspect the fridge and see if they had enough of everything I'd need to make dinner. I had to get a couple of things, but they got just about everything right. It was kind of a struggle keeping Gayle and Denise out of my way in the kitchen, but after awhile, they got the message. I should have let them peel potatoes though. Anyway, the meat loaf, beans and potato salad came out as expected except that the meat loaf dried a little due to keeping it warm waiting for people to show up. Colton, my nephew's first words were..."this potato salad has some kick!". It does and tasted even better the next day. I should have made it a day ahead of time...oh well. Then it was jigsaw puzzle time so I went to snore again. Next day we packed, finished the jigsaw puzzle, said the good-byes, did the same at Grandma's and stopped off to visit Glen and Kim. We ended up staying part of the night there, at least until 0230 when we had to get up. Way too early... I wish Denise had stayed until I left, but it was nice to spend a few days just bumming around Seattle by myself too. I almost bought some bagpipes.
2/8/6
Hallelujah!! After 3 and a half years of haphazard searching I finally found a scouring powder! It was probably under my nose all the time but like I said, it was haphazard searching. Over here, cleaning solution are, well, let's just say...lacking. I've asked others and none of us has found a window cleaning solution that doesn't streak...and elbow grease sucks although effective. It's a little sad to say, but as a bachelor, bathrooms and kitchen sinks aren't cleaned promptly and sometimes build up a bit of a film and it was really nice to have a shining bathtub, toilet and sink for a change. I haven't made it to the kitchen yet...one day at a time. It's still raining and windy here, which makes for lazy days and Jerry's blaming me for bringing the weather back with me...and I can't disagree. I've never said I didn't like rain although I gave up on it making me grow(upward) long ago.
What else? Taxes are done(ouch!)
2/7/6
Warning...following links are to very large photos.
The next three days were spent at the Willows Lodge(link to homepage) in Woodinville. What a fantastic place and we didn't even experience all of it. After we got my new glasses we checked out a couple of car dealerships with varying degrees of success and went looking for it. It was dark and my eyes were still dilated from the eye exam so it was probably luck that I noticed and remembered the restaurant name "The Barking Frog" as we drove past it before expecting to. We were greeted by a large and lazy black lab, well, at least he raised his head from his bed to look, and hit the room to freshen up before dinner. Dinner all three nights was fantastic, the highlight of my meals being the the wild boar ribs. They, I think jokingly, gave me a knife and fork, but there was no reason whatsoever for a knife...the meat just fell off the bones. Denise's meals looked and smelled fantastic as well, but I was too full to sample. More car shopping and general wandering around Seattle...Ballard Locks and Fort Lawton...somewhere during this Denise felt like jelly from her trip to the spa at the Willows...I just used the in room Jacuzzi. A very nice place...and we didn't try the Herb Farm restaurant, which has an even better reputation...maybe next time.
The dog got up to greet us as we left at least, but it was too dark for me to get a good photo of him. A pretty cool old guy. We headed south, looking for an exit that said South Tacoma Way, the next stop on our car shopping odyssey. Oh yeah, part of the reason I took this trip was for some dental work. The day I left Cyprus I got an email telling me that the appointment I had had mad for a few months had to be cancelled. I told them to let me know what other days they had available but never heard back. I gave up on finding the exit and pulled off the interstate to get a map or ask someone and at the first intersection I was going to turn on...what do you know...South Tacoma Way...only a few blocks away as well. Denise got enough info to play the salesman against one another and we continued south to check out a hybrid Prius that Teresa, a friend from HS said she had available. We stopped off and had lunch with my dad and Gayle, probably making him late for a doctor's appointment. Until now Denise had been looking at VW Jetta turbodiesels. It turned out she didn't have the Prius so we had a nice visit instead. Hopefully Denise and Teresa will be able to get together for some diving someday.
Did I mention it hadn't stopped raining since we'd been there?
A trip I'd love to have taken...
2/6/6
Hmm...I'm not one that normally complains about refereeing and in fact, was once thanked by a baseball umpire while catching for telling the pitcher he was close and to just keep putting it in there, but the entire flow of the game was altered by a couple of pretty poor calls. Even the idiot broadcasters, and congrats to John Madden, by the way, recognized it. Madden used to be great at calling a game, but he's fallen sharply since his heydey. Can't fault the Steelers, they just kept plugging away, but I'm still disappointed. Should be a fun offseason as they decide how to deal with Hutch and Shaun, as well as the draft. I got to see four games this year, all victories and had a blast at each of them, which is really the point.
2/5/6
In what is a good omen for the Seahawks, I hope, Scotland beat France in the 6 Nations rugby series today. Hopefully that means all my favorites will win today. I shouldn't write this on the off chance that Rob will read it and wanted to be kept spoiler free until he gets to watch the delayed match in the states tonight, but Wales ended up getting stomped by England. I really doubt he'll end up watching much more than the first half, if that much. I don't feel that bad for him as the other day in chat he said "go Steelers". I told him to blow me. Most of my neighbors are gone for the winter so I'm free to go nuts while watching the game tonight, or, actually, this morning. It kind of sucks with most of my football-loving friends being in the UAE and the rest that are here living so far away, but in truth, I'm kind of looking forward to no distractions while watching. It's been awhile since I've actually cared who won the game. Seahawks 34, Steelers 17.
2/4/6
Six Nations rugby is on again. Italy surprised me against Ireland by putting up a very good fight. England just went up 7-0 on Wales...should be interesting.
Reggie White always struck me as a loudmouth. This article changes that perception and should change the perception of any person that reads it about things other than Reggie White.
2/3/6
One debatable thing about being overseas is the amount of money you can get per day via an ATM. This has come in handy for me a few times, but if I ever lose a card...you know the rest. I withdrew probably over 1100$ today. Not a problem.
Back to the vacation...we got in touch with Glen and Kim around noon the next day and went back to the Rock Bottom to watch more football. I had these things called Titan's Toothpick which were very large tortillas, rolled up around a filling and deep-fried. We all ordered appetizers because Denise and Kim had secretly decided the day before where dinner would be, but I don't think anyone finished theirs. In fact, I could smell Denise's garlic pretzels in the car for the next few days. Anyway, they chose The Melting Pot, a place Denise, I think, had found in one of the "things to do" magazines at the Edgewater. So, we made reservations and headed over there. It was pretty dark, very Seattle-like, but a nice place and apparently very popular. Denise had tried to explain fondues and the whole experience ahead of time, but I still didn't get it. Turns out, it was pretty damn good.
There's a burner under the table and they brought out a metal bowl of several cheeses, spices and wine that were mixed as they melted over the fire. They gave us little spears and we sampled various veggie chunks, apple and a few different types of bread dipped in a delicious cheese mix. Everyone was impressed. Next came the meat, seven different types, I think, pretty much you name it, we had it coming...except for liver. For this they brought out a broth...I don't remember which type, but the point was that different types of meat were cooked in the boiling broth for a time and then devoured. I overcooked a couple, but even so, they were still good so you can imagine what the ones I did right were like. It is expensive, but well worth it, especially for a special occasion...and we caught a break. Denise and Kim had been mooning over the dessert platters since they saw the menu so we knew that was coming, but about 2/3 of the way through the meat, we noticed that the broth was no longer boiling...off to find someone to fix it. I did, but by the time I got back, they were already working on replacing the burner, which they did fairly efficiently. We went back to work on the meat with a little less enthusiasm, but it soon returned when they told us that we were getting free dessert for our inconvenience.
I suppose I've done a few decadent things in my life, but I can't remember anything like this. Denise said before the trip she was planning on bulking up with the various types of good food available and if anything was going to mar her sweetly petite figure, it would certainly be this dessert tray, especially since I was way past full and only helped minimally. Out comes a bowl of chocolate for the burner, melting deliciously, especially if you even mildly like chocolate and shortly thereafter platters of fun stuff to dip in it. I remember the strawberries and bananas and believe me, I wanted to eat more. I think there was cheesecake, marshmallows...probably other stuff too. All in all a fantastic meal except for burner, which was more than made up for. I should listen to women more often, at least Denise and Kim. It was a great weekend made even more so by the fact that two women close to Glen and I were able to click so well...good taste, I guess, although I won't comment on who's part. ;) More good food to follow...
The game...the night before, or that morning, I received an email from Tony, a Redskins fan, stating that he hoped there was enough alcohol available for everyone to numb themselves after the 'skins administered a crushing defeat. He's in the UAE and after watching the game I hope he was able to find enough. The game environment was a blast for the most part with loud enthusiastic fans on cheering for both teams. It was a pretty early game and Glen and I got there around noon and there were already people staggering somewhat when they got to the game. They stopped beer sales at halftime which probably allowed them to make it to the end of the game. There was a cool Redskin fan in front of us and a couple of obnoxious Seahawks as well, but nothing happened except. It was a fun game except for the third quarter when things got a little touchy after a fumble on a punt return, but the Hawks soon regained control and went on to a fairly dominant win. The weather sucked though...drizzling the entire game and it was a lot chillier than September, which I should have been prepared for. It was also a pain cleaning my glasses every few minutes. At some point in the fourth quarter I gave up as I couldn't find a an unused spot on my shirt to wipe them off, so I settled for blurred vision, at least I thought this was the case until after the game when we were under cover and I could clean them off better. My left lens was missing...duh...so we ran back inside to see if we could find it to no avail...time to visit Lenscrafters. We eventually, after climbing up Seattle, met Denise and Kim at a coffee shop and made our way to the Rock Bottom, a brewpub that Glen and I both remembered visiting on our last trip to a game together. The name registered on neither of us until we saw the entrance. Had some dinner and watched the Broncos and Patriots play before making plans for Sunday and heading back to the hotels.
2/2/6
I should have taken notes on my vacation, but I was pretty busy having fun so you'll have to trust my memory, which has been known to reflect favorably in my direction. Any participants are welcome to try and get me to amend potential misrepresentation of events.
When last you heard from me, I was sick and on my way to the US via England. I hadn't eaten much in a few days because I couldn't find anything that felt good in my stomach. The flight from here to England pretty much sucked although I did run into a guy from here with whom I shared a cab to Heathrow. Saved us both a bit of money. I had booked an extra day and while it would have been nice to see a bit of London, I mainly slept and drank water. I think that was my problem and why the illness lasted so long...dehydration. Back in Cyprus even water felt like a log in my stomach and I didn't drink enough, but after a day of water, I was finally able to eat a bit. I didn't venture far from a large open container though. I felt pretty good on the flight to the states...at least compared to my previous state and even though I had warned Denise about my potential appearance, was still looking forward to being greeted by cute redhead in Seattle. Trouble was, I got there before her...so once I found where she was collecting her baggage, she was met by a dehydrated, slowly graying brunette. I still got a hug out of the deal...
We picked up the rental and she agreed to drive and was soon introduced to Seattle traffic. First exit...already stop and go. We eventually hit the Edgewater, checked in and of course, they didn't give us the room with two queen beds I had asked for. Denise and I are pretty good friends but sleeping in the same bed after we've hugged maybe twice in our lives was a bit of a stretch. I agreed to behave myself and pointed out the excess pillows on the bed that could be used for a fence and...soon found myself the target of said pillows...so aside from temptation, at least on my part, we worked that out. On to dinner, since I had been raving about the food in this place, which is good, but when she asked me which I'd had on the room service menu...I realized that when you find something you like and order it over and over, it's hard to vouch for the rest of the menu. She decided on the crab bisque and some sort of shrimp and although her motherly instincts took over when she tried to get me to share, she soon told me that it was horrible and I wouldn't like it anyway...as she virtually vacuumed the meal. Not much else aside from setting up the computer, reacquainting ourselves with one another and a couple of phone calls.
One of the calls was from Glen and we arranged to meet at FX McCrory's the next morning at 10:45. Denise and I were a bit early so we checked the reservation list to see if Glen and Kim might already be there. We managed to translate their spelling of Maultsby, which I think was Motzby and decided they hadn't made it yet. We made it in and everyone except me ordered the linebacker scramble with cheesy hash browns. I always want that when the food arrives, but never make it past the prime rib french dip sandwich. Everyone, except me had a great meal too! Mine was eventually delicious but I made the mistake of thinking that a small dish of greens and sauce was cole slaw. It turned out to be a horseradish mix to be added in garnish amounts to the sandwich...meaning that a forkful directly to the mouth results in wide eyes, a large drink from the nearest beverage and amused looks from anyone who happens to notice. Everyone did, it seemed. Denise and Kim appeared to hit it off pretty well so any apprehension I felt about them spending the day together soon vanished...after all, she didn't have my credit cards and Kim did have Glen's. Off to the game!
1/10/6
I think I've written this before, but wtf? I recently read about Bode Miller skiing drunk. He's an elite skier and that kind of surprises me, but not really. It is easier when a little lubricated. Lose the inhibitions and let it go! However, when I was still learning, I did come home with a grapefruit sized bruise on my hip that wasn't entirely due to alcohol but the combo of ice and it were still effective at what they did. As usual, my point is long in coming and it came shortly after I had just completed my first "black diamond" run. We were standing there, me accepting what I considered deserved congratulations and ribbing when...I fell over. Completely sober, just standing there. Needless to say I bought, and enjoyed, a few to live that one down.
Still a little under the weather, but I think the bug is gone. It's been fun reading about the upcoming game via various sources, including opposing fans. Tony is one of those and I hope he enjoys the spanking his team will get this weekend. I also hope my, and Glen's, vocal cords are up to it. Aside from the Seahawks superior talent, that's what the difference will be. I think the place will be nuts, even more so than it normally is. If you've been there you'll know of what I speak.
1/9/6
Evidence of global warming...I'm just hoping I don't have bird flu which seems to be in the neighborhood.
I was too late on the laundry but not regrettably so. The reading chair from which I ogle young nubiles(old too, now that I think about it) was damp but the clothes weren't bad. At least I threw them in my bag anyway and hope nothing grows on them. I usually end up buying clothes when I'm back anyway.
I guess I shouldn't have written that bit about puking. That's what I felt like doing when I woke up the next morning and so far for the next 24 hours. No, dad, I'm not trying to get out of the meal I promised to cook for you. I'm home from work today in an effort not to give this to anyone so it's likely I'll miss Anthony's departure. Sorry guy...I'll miss you, have a safe trip and I'll see you again at some point. I'm still going to blame the ramen I got from you for the illness. And...it's looking like rain so I better go get my clothes off the line.
1/7/6
I've probably said this before, but the media's obsessing on things really gets on my nerves..Yes, Ariel Sharon is important to maintaining a semblance of world peace, but he's not the key to it. It's the real people, the everyday Joe. It sucks when you die, I guess, but it happens. Sorry, I need to puke.
Rob's remark to my comment on Steve and Raffy's kid being taller than me..."who isn't?" was met with a "f/u, but true."
1/6/6
Ahh...the hazards of reading on the patio overlooking the pool in Cyprus, even in winter. Young hardbody, nice and perky, but when I heard her voice arguing with people I guess were her parents I cringed. Cat claws on a blackboard. Reminded me of some Filipinas I met in Korea. It was difficult, but I did stay until she got out of the pool...didn't have the camera with me...sorry.
Steve and Rafaela are now proud parents of a child that will likely be taller than me by the age of 10! Couldn't be happier for them as they're two of the nicest people I've ever met. It kind of makes me wonder at why I'm so lucky in meeting and knowing all of these great people. Are they really that prevalent? About this I'm a pessimist and don't think so. I like being proven wrong though.
Yesterday I realized how much I dislike doing laundry. It's a pretty well known fact that a lot of single guys prefer buying new underwear than washing soiled and yesterday I ran out of clothespins with 3 pair left. I did do my socks the same day so they used up a lot of the pins, but still.
I'm starting to get ready for the trip home, but in reality, most of my packing takes place in a half-hour frenzy the night before. I'm just charging camera batteries and the laptop's...wondering if I should pay the rent before I leave or after, likely won't matter, but it would probably be better if I paid before. Jerry asked me if Anthony was going to start my car periodically and I told him that it had survived the last trip just fine so I wasn't worried. Then he remembered that Anthony was leaving.
1/4/6
It's been windy lately which usually means I don't have much to do, but I had fun this morning. I had to replace the guts of our system's control box. Of course we didn't have the proper tools and those we had sucked, but with a few expletives, Jerry and I got it done. I saved the checkout for something to do tomorrow.
Check your newspaper headlines this morning and note my lack of surprise at their accuracy. In this case though, the web wasn't much better, nor was television, except in their overcoverage, at which they have no equal.
1/3/6
The ultimate fat machine. I wonder if they ship overseas. Doubtful...maybe I'll send it to my dad and see if he'll break it down and ship it separate. I'd probably never see it except when I visit.
1/2/6
Some people wonder why I don't trust politicians...and newspapers...and global warming...according to this, it's time for some testicular fortitude.
1/1/6
Happy New Year! Wings went over well although I really made a mess in Anthony's kitchen. Scott was apparently killed at some point during his combat nap...Keith was bummed that Franx was closed so he couldn't ogle Monica(so was I) and the Huskies lost to AZ in double overtime, but it was still a fun New Year's, when we eventually realized it, probably 13 minutes or so after the fact. It sucks when you're not in the same time zone as Dick Clark. I do blame the Huskies loss on Anthony though because he took over the computer during the second overtime so he could IM someone. Payback for the volleyball defeat, I guess. Good time, good friends...what more could I ask for? Titties and beer?
12/30/5
What a weird night and day. It pretty much ran the gamut of emotions. Last night I found out the son of a friend of mine died and I guess, like most people, couldn't come up with anything to say but the obvious. I told him so and he completely understood. That's gotta be tough. This morning I found out a friend of mine is getting married. This is much easier to deal with...he truly gets my best wishes and I can not be more sincere in expressing that. It's also easy because most of our time together over the many years has been a continuous bachelor party so he shouldn't need one thrown for him. I just wish the timing of my trip back to the states had been better.
More weirdness...the drive home, not that there was a lot of traffic, just excess stupidity. Even the pedestrians were dumber than usual. Saying that, it wouldn't be fair that I don't mention my own brushes with the dumb side. When I bought the bug, Anthony told me not to let the gas get below 1/4 tank. I'd been down that low and when I left for work had between 5/16 and 3/8. Not a problem, right? About a half mile inside the gate on base, deceleration and no spark. I look at the gauge, still the same. Damn, looks like the floor for it is moving up. I tried a bit to start it with no luck and called Jerry to see if he could pick me up on his way in, hopefully with a gas can. I was also lucky because my phone's battery power indicator was flashing at me when I finished the call. Jerry found a gas can and picked some up on his way in and I was soon back on the road. I was mainly glad that being out of gas was the problem. Wings and chili one of these nights...belching and farting is underrated.
12/29/5
Hmm...and to think I've spent time mildly fantasizing about enjoying this place. I think I'll wait a few years.
12/28/5
I like this guy's website a lot. He points out and comments on some important issues and injects some humor around them. I was going to link to his 12/27 post on Islam and potential changes but I kept reading. He's funny. Don't forget to check out the quote from another site about his in the upper left hand corner. I don't know if they're true but I usually laugh.
My boss's daughter spent part of the holidays with her brother in Texas and was asked before her return flight if she'd volunteer to fly back the next day for the usual reason. She got a night in a 300$ hotel, which her brother helped her enjoy, first class flight back the next day and a 500$ voucher good for a year in US travel. I wish I wasn't usually racing to meet a deadline.
I got a new turn signal cover for the bug and luckily it was the right one. New wiper blades too, finally the right size! 64 dollars for the piece of chrome that keeps the bulb out of the rain. Then Jerry had to tell me I needed a new car to go with the shiny new cover. I probably deserved it though. Earlier he came in complaining that while he was outside smoking it was pretty chilly with the wind blowing up your ass. I told him he should keep his pants on. He's a pretty cool guy to work with/for. The wiper blades were a fairly uneventful install except for the little plastic adapters. They give you four of them and the old ones didn't look quite the same as the new ones so naturally I guessed incorrectly and put one just a bit too small on first. They don't pop back off as easily as they pop on.
Provided I can find a turkey we may be deep-frying one this weekend. Scott has a fire extinguisher.
12/27/5
Just in case you've ever considered egg nog bonging...
I've read some of Tucker Max's stories and laughed my ass off, usually not quite believing them. They aren't for the timid or straitlaced though. I found a link to a thread on his messageboard on Yaysports and decided to check it out. It's about an hour later and I'm still reading which either shows how easily amused I am or...that I really like reading about horny, teenage Canadian's convicted of killing their mom in a bathtub. There something of a recap on this page.
12/25/5
I don't make many friends, but those I do are generally good ones, meaning they last awhile. Being as reticent as I am, it takes some effort on the part of the person becoming a friend which is probably why the friendships last. I'm not an easy person to like. I knew Anthony in Korea and shared a beer or six with him once or twice, but we really didn't know one another, just another "hey dude, what's up?" kind of thing. Over here we shared a shop and although it's kind of annoying learning things from someone younger, I gradually got used to it. Someone's wife...oops..once asked why everyone liked him so much and I think I nailed it. Easy to talk to, but a lot of people are...more importantly, easy to learn from. He's the antithesis of the arrogant prick most possesers of knowledge are. Plus he enjoys beer. He enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience even though he's younger and grayer than I. It's cool...ask him a question and you get a "straight" answer, not an obfuscation. I'm not looking forward to him leaving, but I'm glad he's cool with it. I am and hope he knows it and will keep in touch. Like it or not you're my friend.
Something about someone's wife, sex and a cheese grater? Don't like to type it, much less think about it...yes, I lead a boring life.
12/24/5
Sorry, I'm just not capable of writing about last night. Anal beads, chain saws, fried chicken, diving, hookers, atms...collies, cats, cats and hoses with clams as bait, desperate taxi drivers...desperate women...tonight should be even better...maybe chili...
