Two Posts In Two Days? What's Wrong?
Nothing is wrong. Just because I switched my brand of coffee doesn't mean I'm more energized in the morning. Just because my kitchen remodel is going badly and is days behind schedule doesn't mean I wake up early and race to the workshop (at least not on weekends.) Just because the ceiling crashed in one of my downstairs bedrooms due to a copper pipe failure doesn't mean I'm stressed out. AND........just because the snow pack in the Cascades is so heavy I've had to postpone my four-day backpacking trip to Mount Jefferson doesn't mean I'm frustrated. Angry? Yes. Frustrated? No.
Trucks And Their Offspring
The old red Sonoma is getting kind of arthritic. What to do? Look for a new vehicle that will take me up into the foothills without costing me an IRA distribution each trip. Have you noticed that 4-cylinder engines are now more costly than V-6's or V-8's? If I wait long enough I can probably buy a Hemi for pennies on the dollar and do an engine swap. Might not make sense gas mileage wise but it sure would be fun passing a Mercedes with my old beater truck.
Dream on old man, dream on!
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Monday, June 23, 2008
New Look - New Direction
The Umpteenth Shift Of Focus
I've done this before so I'm doing it again.
Once again I've lost my blogging motivation. And again, I've resorted to an old reliable cure - a quick and dirty review of my settled-in life as a retired person. Not surprisingly, it revealed I'm busier than ever and still blessed with a solid immune system that rejects everything nasty and makes each day a delight.
Therefore, (and this has nothing to do with the above) I'm going to proceed with a half-diary, half-opinion format. This is good news for anyone who cares to know what I'm doing with my time, and bad news for those who stumble by here looking for exciting and enlightening topics.
In advance, let me apologize to my friends who occasionally visit here. If my constant bobbing and weaving is becoming bothersome, just be thankful there are thousands of other web sites that can offer you respite.
So that's it. Let's see what develops this time and how long it lasts! I'm excited again and that's what's important here at the place.
I've done this before so I'm doing it again.
Once again I've lost my blogging motivation. And again, I've resorted to an old reliable cure - a quick and dirty review of my settled-in life as a retired person. Not surprisingly, it revealed I'm busier than ever and still blessed with a solid immune system that rejects everything nasty and makes each day a delight.
Therefore, (and this has nothing to do with the above) I'm going to proceed with a half-diary, half-opinion format. This is good news for anyone who cares to know what I'm doing with my time, and bad news for those who stumble by here looking for exciting and enlightening topics.
In advance, let me apologize to my friends who occasionally visit here. If my constant bobbing and weaving is becoming bothersome, just be thankful there are thousands of other web sites that can offer you respite.
So that's it. Let's see what develops this time and how long it lasts! I'm excited again and that's what's important here at the place.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Why We Won WW II
The Competition
Here are some fine examples of state of the art aircraft design - circa 1940. Clearly, these foreign aircraft demonstrate backward thinking by their respective engineering teams. Notice how the German plane's design is based on dated concepts. An example is the failed attempt at streamlining the landing gear to project an image of speed even though the landing gear is entirely concealed when the plane is in flight. Sad indeed.
The Japanese Zero is basically a large engine with small wings and tail attached. Pity the poor pilot who tried to tame this beast! The pilot surely felt like he was riding on the end of a lion tamer's whip. Neck injuries among Japanese pilots must have reached epidemic proportions.
So Here Was Our Answer
When you consider the US employed its best and brightest, there's no question that our fighter plane designs were superior from the get go. Notice the beauty of the sweeping clean lines, the unobstructed view the pilot had of every inch of this nimble craft - truly classic proportions which translated into superior performance.
This is just another example of what a nation can do when pushed to the brink. Proof again that "commitee think" produces superior results!
Here are some fine examples of state of the art aircraft design - circa 1940. Clearly, these foreign aircraft demonstrate backward thinking by their respective engineering teams. Notice how the German plane's design is based on dated concepts. An example is the failed attempt at streamlining the landing gear to project an image of speed even though the landing gear is entirely concealed when the plane is in flight. Sad indeed.
The Japanese Zero is basically a large engine with small wings and tail attached. Pity the poor pilot who tried to tame this beast! The pilot surely felt like he was riding on the end of a lion tamer's whip. Neck injuries among Japanese pilots must have reached epidemic proportions.
So Here Was Our Answer
When you consider the US employed its best and brightest, there's no question that our fighter plane designs were superior from the get go. Notice the beauty of the sweeping clean lines, the unobstructed view the pilot had of every inch of this nimble craft - truly classic proportions which translated into superior performance.
This is just another example of what a nation can do when pushed to the brink. Proof again that "commitee think" produces superior results!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Thursday, April 03, 2008
NASCAR Sister Retires
Sad But True
At the end of March, Father Time's sister retired from job as a waitress at Capt'n Jack's House Of Liver, the finest eating establishment in Bald Knob. She will be missed by all of the regulars, but no one will miss her more than Louie, Alphonse, and Ezekiel, or as the locals call them - The Savory Brothers. (That's because their last name is Herb.) None of us like change and certainly the Savory's are prime examples of people who detest change.
The Savory Brothers
Since the brothers have never left Bald Knob, NASCAR Sister asked me, as a favor, to publish their pictures here on a big time blog for the first time.
The first picture is Alphonse who is the youngest Savory brother. He has a great sense of humor and only wears clothes from K-Mart, which makes him a hit with older women. Alphonse is also the only Savory known to have the ability to dribble. His talent for water sports attracted several major university water polo coaches, but unfortunately, none was able to offer him a scholarship. Nevertheless, Alphonse went on to be a success as the General Manager of the Bald Knob Feathered Fiends, our local semi-amateur Lawn Dart team.
Next we see Louie.
Louie Savory is a little different than the other two brothers but we are assured by Dr. Spite, our local chiropractor, Louie is indeed a Savory sort since Dr. Spite delivered all of the Savory boys.
Over the years there have been numerous questions about Louie. First, he grew a beard long before he entered puberty. Second, his ears weren't like the other two brothers. To settle the controversy, Dr. Spite conducted a DNA test on all three and concluded they indeed were located somewhere on the family tree, but from which branch was beyond the realm of modern science. Since Dr. Spite was a learned man, the townspeople accepted his findings and the brothers have spent their lives in Bald Knob with minimal controversy.
And finally we have Ezekiel M. Savory, the oldest brother. (The "M" stands for Methuselah, the Savory's father.) Dad Savory soon realized he had his work cut out when he saw Ezekiel in the nursery for the first time. Clearly, there was not enough money in the universe to perform all the plastic surgery necessary to make Ezekiel handsome enough to attract a bride. So old Methuselah sent Ezekiel to an Egyptian monastery where he trained to become a martial arts referee. Even though he failed, he returned to Bald Knob where he is now the town's only Commodore computer repairman.
At Any Rate
More about NASCAR Sister's fabulous life in a future post. There is just SO much good stuff she did that Father Time has no idea where to start.
But I will!
At the end of March, Father Time's sister retired from job as a waitress at Capt'n Jack's House Of Liver, the finest eating establishment in Bald Knob. She will be missed by all of the regulars, but no one will miss her more than Louie, Alphonse, and Ezekiel, or as the locals call them - The Savory Brothers. (That's because their last name is Herb.) None of us like change and certainly the Savory's are prime examples of people who detest change.
The Savory Brothers
Since the brothers have never left Bald Knob, NASCAR Sister asked me, as a favor, to publish their pictures here on a big time blog for the first time.
The first picture is Alphonse who is the youngest Savory brother. He has a great sense of humor and only wears clothes from K-Mart, which makes him a hit with older women. Alphonse is also the only Savory known to have the ability to dribble. His talent for water sports attracted several major university water polo coaches, but unfortunately, none was able to offer him a scholarship. Nevertheless, Alphonse went on to be a success as the General Manager of the Bald Knob Feathered Fiends, our local semi-amateur Lawn Dart team. Next we see Louie.
Louie Savory is a little different than the other two brothers but we are assured by Dr. Spite, our local chiropractor, Louie is indeed a Savory sort since Dr. Spite delivered all of the Savory boys.Over the years there have been numerous questions about Louie. First, he grew a beard long before he entered puberty. Second, his ears weren't like the other two brothers. To settle the controversy, Dr. Spite conducted a DNA test on all three and concluded they indeed were located somewhere on the family tree, but from which branch was beyond the realm of modern science. Since Dr. Spite was a learned man, the townspeople accepted his findings and the brothers have spent their lives in Bald Knob with minimal controversy.
And finally we have Ezekiel M. Savory, the oldest brother. (The "M" stands for Methuselah, the Savory's father.) Dad Savory soon realized he had his work cut out when he saw Ezekiel in the nursery for the first time. Clearly, there was not enough money in the universe to perform all the plastic surgery necessary to make Ezekiel handsome enough to attract a bride. So old Methuselah sent Ezekiel to an Egyptian monastery where he trained to become a martial arts referee. Even though he failed, he returned to Bald Knob where he is now the town's only Commodore computer repairman.
At Any Rate
More about NASCAR Sister's fabulous life in a future post. There is just SO much good stuff she did that Father Time has no idea where to start.
But I will!
Monday, March 31, 2008
So Much To Do
The Usual Excuses
(I should just make a macro out of this part. Would save a lot of time!)
Boy have I ever been sloughing off and neglecting my blog. I know this isn't something new but someday I must slow down! At any rate, what's been going on here in the beautiful Northwest?
Woodworking
Get ready to snore.
I've been looking for a particular type of older wood plane on E-Bay for the past four months. I finally found one in Ohio that was for sale at a very reasonable price. It arrived March 28th and in now known as Dad's "Obsession" by my family. They can make fun of me if they want, but little do they know my passion for fluffy shavings. But that's a conversation for my therapist and me so let's move on!
The Deer "Fence"
Works like a charm. Not a single deer in my yard for over three weeks! That means only one thing - fresh fruits and vegetables from Father (and Mother)Time's garden this year. It does bother me, however, when I see them peeking through the wires and licking their chops. It bothers me for almost 15 seconds. And then I smile.
Backpacking
The weather is getting warmer and that means the snow will be melting soon. Then watch me stop blogging for months at a time. Oh ya! New lightweight low-temp sleeping bag and one-person tent, plus a weather radio to be tested soon. Have all my GPS points plotted on a map and downloaded to my receiver. If I get lost, it will because I forgot something esoteric like my compass or eyeglasses.
Enough already
I agree. It's time to hustle off and do something useful in the workshop. Today might be a good day to move forward on my Adirondack chair rebuild project. This time, new stainless steel screws, waterproof glue, and a thorough sanding to remove the ancient looking silver color Mother Nature inflicted upon them. Then the obligatory picture will be included on the blog so those of you who read this drivel can pat me on the back. It will be a poignant moment! Gag
(I should just make a macro out of this part. Would save a lot of time!)
Boy have I ever been sloughing off and neglecting my blog. I know this isn't something new but someday I must slow down! At any rate, what's been going on here in the beautiful Northwest?
Woodworking
Get ready to snore.
I've been looking for a particular type of older wood plane on E-Bay for the past four months. I finally found one in Ohio that was for sale at a very reasonable price. It arrived March 28th and in now known as Dad's "Obsession" by my family. They can make fun of me if they want, but little do they know my passion for fluffy shavings. But that's a conversation for my therapist and me so let's move on!The Deer "Fence"
Works like a charm. Not a single deer in my yard for over three weeks! That means only one thing - fresh fruits and vegetables from Father (and Mother)Time's garden this year. It does bother me, however, when I see them peeking through the wires and licking their chops. It bothers me for almost 15 seconds. And then I smile.
Backpacking
The weather is getting warmer and that means the snow will be melting soon. Then watch me stop blogging for months at a time. Oh ya! New lightweight low-temp sleeping bag and one-person tent, plus a weather radio to be tested soon. Have all my GPS points plotted on a map and downloaded to my receiver. If I get lost, it will because I forgot something esoteric like my compass or eyeglasses.
Enough already
I agree. It's time to hustle off and do something useful in the workshop. Today might be a good day to move forward on my Adirondack chair rebuild project. This time, new stainless steel screws, waterproof glue, and a thorough sanding to remove the ancient looking silver color Mother Nature inflicted upon them. Then the obligatory picture will be included on the blog so those of you who read this drivel can pat me on the back. It will be a poignant moment! Gag
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
First Inning - Father Time 1 - Deer 0
The Game Is On!
As I described in my last post, the solution to yard and garden preservation was to increase the height of my chain-link fence and prevent the local deer herd from getting in. The actual "increase" was accomplished by bolting pieces of 3/4" electrical conduit to my fence posts, and then stringing wire through holes drilled in the conduit. Our local university extension service suggested putting white flags at regular intervals to prevent the deer from attempting to jump the fence at night when the wires are not visible. For you macho types out there, (are you listening Fly?) a possible modification would be to substitute razor wire and then get ready to enjoy some venison steaks this summer. But since my household includes a dog and two cats adopted from our local Humane Society, you can bet that won't happen here!
Remember. It's just the first inning!
I'll keep you posted if the score changes!
Mission accomplished - I think.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Mother Nature 2 - Father Time 0
Mother Nature kicks sand in my face.
For the past five years, White-tailed deer have easily jumped the 5' chain-link fence surrounding my garden and orchard. Once inside, they feast on my apples, strawberries, rose bushes, and beans. In short, they leave me no choice but to purchase my produce at the local supermarket!
Father Time's devious plan
Following a neighbor's lead, I'm re-engineering my fence and raising the height to 10'. Yesterday I purchased the necessary materials (poles, wires, and fasteners) to increase the overall height and, simultaneously, create a hazard to low flying aircraft.
"Yes", I silently bragged to myself, "Only Olympic qualified deer will get in here now!"
The deer's devious plan
As I was attaching the first pole to the fence with industrial-strength u-bolts, I happened to look over at my neighbor's yard. Unbelievably, FIVE deer were resting in his yard, contentedly munching grass and watching me work!
OK, I've worked in front of an audience before but this was a bit much. Then as if to mock me, the largest deer looked right at me and, I swear, smiled at me!
I could hear him saying, "Bring it on old man. When you're done, we'll still jump over!" Now, to say I was shocked would be a masterpiece of understatement. On the other hand, I'm a calm deliberate person, so I did what any semi-intelligent person would do - I stuck my tongue out at him!
Father Time counter punches
After a little research on the Internet, I've discovered that once I've raised the height of the fence, I should attach 2' white streamers on the top wire every five feet along the entire length of the fence. For reasons known only to deer, this will absolutely keep them at bay. In the meantime, my home will look like a used car lot having a clearance sale.
Other than a few meaningless class-action law suits from neighbors, the next move is up the the deer.
This isn't over yet!
Once the fence is complete, I will share photos of the deer and the fence here on the blog. They will also be used in court as defense exhibits.
Father Time will prevail!
For the past five years, White-tailed deer have easily jumped the 5' chain-link fence surrounding my garden and orchard. Once inside, they feast on my apples, strawberries, rose bushes, and beans. In short, they leave me no choice but to purchase my produce at the local supermarket!
Father Time's devious plan
Following a neighbor's lead, I'm re-engineering my fence and raising the height to 10'. Yesterday I purchased the necessary materials (poles, wires, and fasteners) to increase the overall height and, simultaneously, create a hazard to low flying aircraft.
"Yes", I silently bragged to myself, "Only Olympic qualified deer will get in here now!"
The deer's devious plan
As I was attaching the first pole to the fence with industrial-strength u-bolts, I happened to look over at my neighbor's yard. Unbelievably, FIVE deer were resting in his yard, contentedly munching grass and watching me work!
OK, I've worked in front of an audience before but this was a bit much. Then as if to mock me, the largest deer looked right at me and, I swear, smiled at me!
I could hear him saying, "Bring it on old man. When you're done, we'll still jump over!" Now, to say I was shocked would be a masterpiece of understatement. On the other hand, I'm a calm deliberate person, so I did what any semi-intelligent person would do - I stuck my tongue out at him!
Father Time counter punches
After a little research on the Internet, I've discovered that once I've raised the height of the fence, I should attach 2' white streamers on the top wire every five feet along the entire length of the fence. For reasons known only to deer, this will absolutely keep them at bay. In the meantime, my home will look like a used car lot having a clearance sale.
Other than a few meaningless class-action law suits from neighbors, the next move is up the the deer.
This isn't over yet!
Once the fence is complete, I will share photos of the deer and the fence here on the blog. They will also be used in court as defense exhibits.
Father Time will prevail!
Thursday, February 21, 2008
A Time To Blog
Where does the time go?
This blog must feel like an orphan. Unless I make a note on my "To Do" list, it gets lost in the shuffle. As it turns out, my retirement should be measured in mph's rather than days or months.
At any rate................what's new?
Backpacking
My trip to the Jefferson Wilderness is definitely on for late May or early June. As some of you may know, I obtained the GPS coordinates for several places used by our local university's atmospheric research team to record glacial activities on Mt Jefferson. By measuring the distance from these waypoints to the glacier's current position (using the GPS of course), along with the date and time of the measurement, a data base is being developed of the glacier's movements over extended periods of time. This will supplement their research into the development of a global warming model. Because of the limits of telemetry, and the remote locations, volunteers are needed to help fill in the gaps in their data base. Those who know me well, realize my middle name is "volunteer." The Army taught me nothing!
Fly Fishing
Guess what I'm doing when I'm not fooling around with glaciers? You're right - fishing in the lakes fed by the glacial runoff! A brand-new five-piece pack rod that weighs in at less than a pound - including foam carrying case, reel, line, and flies. Now I don't have to pay for my morning and evening brookies by toting an extra few pounds up the trail. Life is good.
Woodworking
Right now I'm reorganizing the shop to get rid of things I will never work on, building a proper storage rack for my inventory of wood, and setting up my machines differently to facilitate work flow. I hear you yawning. Moving on!
Hospice
Right now I have two of the greatest patients I have ever worked with - one a biker and the other a retired insurance person. So far, my Hospice experience has been unbelievably educational. I have learned more about other people's life styles and experiences than one could possibly imagine. Absolutely outstanding and right up there with some of the most stimulating interactions with humans I have ever experienced.
And last but not least - Volunteer "Boardism"
Maddening at times but rewarding in hindsight. I'm helping out a local DDR foster care organization with its finances and investments. Reminds me of why I got into that line of work in the first place. My internal hard drive is not maxed out either - that was a concern. In the words of Maxwell Smart - "and loving it!"
Miscellaneous Stuff
Almost forgot! Just remembered that someone has to do dishes, a little laundry, and fix dinner. Humbling but necessary.
Now you know why the blog has been orphaned. Sad but true and I wouldn't have it any other way!
This blog must feel like an orphan. Unless I make a note on my "To Do" list, it gets lost in the shuffle. As it turns out, my retirement should be measured in mph's rather than days or months.
At any rate................what's new?
Backpacking
My trip to the Jefferson Wilderness is definitely on for late May or early June. As some of you may know, I obtained the GPS coordinates for several places used by our local university's atmospheric research team to record glacial activities on Mt Jefferson. By measuring the distance from these waypoints to the glacier's current position (using the GPS of course), along with the date and time of the measurement, a data base is being developed of the glacier's movements over extended periods of time. This will supplement their research into the development of a global warming model. Because of the limits of telemetry, and the remote locations, volunteers are needed to help fill in the gaps in their data base. Those who know me well, realize my middle name is "volunteer." The Army taught me nothing!Fly Fishing
Guess what I'm doing when I'm not fooling around with glaciers? You're right - fishing in the lakes fed by the glacial runoff! A brand-new five-piece pack rod that weighs in at less than a pound - including foam carrying case, reel, line, and flies. Now I don't have to pay for my morning and evening brookies by toting an extra few pounds up the trail. Life is good.
Woodworking
Right now I'm reorganizing the shop to get rid of things I will never work on, building a proper storage rack for my inventory of wood, and setting up my machines differently to facilitate work flow. I hear you yawning. Moving on!
Hospice
Right now I have two of the greatest patients I have ever worked with - one a biker and the other a retired insurance person. So far, my Hospice experience has been unbelievably educational. I have learned more about other people's life styles and experiences than one could possibly imagine. Absolutely outstanding and right up there with some of the most stimulating interactions with humans I have ever experienced.
And last but not least - Volunteer "Boardism"
Maddening at times but rewarding in hindsight. I'm helping out a local DDR foster care organization with its finances and investments. Reminds me of why I got into that line of work in the first place. My internal hard drive is not maxed out either - that was a concern. In the words of Maxwell Smart - "and loving it!"
Miscellaneous Stuff
Almost forgot! Just remembered that someone has to do dishes, a little laundry, and fix dinner. Humbling but necessary.
Now you know why the blog has been orphaned. Sad but true and I wouldn't have it any other way!
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Definition Of Awesome
OK. I've reflected, chosen my resolutions, and am ready to move on. Let me demonstrate.
A Video Is Worth One Hundred Words!
I could bore you with a flood of adjectives but this video does a much better job and ie entertaining to boot.
Now, is that "awesome" or what?
The defense rests!
A Video Is Worth One Hundred Words!
I could bore you with a flood of adjectives but this video does a much better job and ie entertaining to boot.
Now, is that "awesome" or what?
The defense rests!
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Time To Reflect
The Problem
Emme (see comments on last post) asks a good question. "What are your New Year's resolutions?" My response? That's a fair question with a less than satisfactory answer.
I've been postponing making any resolutions while I mull over some exciting, labor intensive, overly ambitious, and totally ludicrous goals. Why make them when I know up front they'll never be accomplished?
Possible Goals
(Remember, these are only live in my mind right now. Don't expect to see pictures taken from the far corners of the earth or anything exotic. My goals are geographically bounded by the borders of the USA.)
1. Backpack into the Mt Jefferson Wilderness and actually see, and possibly touch, a glacier. Since they may not be with us in a few years, I need to do this fairly soon.
2. Build an authentic Shaker-style dining table and six chairs to replace the ugly factory bought stuff we currently own. Makes me crazy just walking by them every day!
3. Retool the workshop. Totally overhaul it with a well-planned layout that makes optimum use of the available space.
4. Help the non-profit board I'm involved with streamline it's financial operations and investment portfolio. (Some of you may think that sounds boring. If you do, you really don't know me that well. I think it's fun! Sick, sick man you say? Yup!)
5. Take a long overdue vacation to Mendocino, California Explore the Northern California coastline and drink my way through the miles of wineries in Anderson Valley.
So?
Given more time, my resolutions should "go public" in a couple of weeks. Until then, the blog may be a little slow, but that describes me perfectly!
Emme (see comments on last post) asks a good question. "What are your New Year's resolutions?" My response? That's a fair question with a less than satisfactory answer.
I've been postponing making any resolutions while I mull over some exciting, labor intensive, overly ambitious, and totally ludicrous goals. Why make them when I know up front they'll never be accomplished?
Possible Goals
(Remember, these are only live in my mind right now. Don't expect to see pictures taken from the far corners of the earth or anything exotic. My goals are geographically bounded by the borders of the USA.)
1. Backpack into the Mt Jefferson Wilderness and actually see, and possibly touch, a glacier. Since they may not be with us in a few years, I need to do this fairly soon.
2. Build an authentic Shaker-style dining table and six chairs to replace the ugly factory bought stuff we currently own. Makes me crazy just walking by them every day!
3. Retool the workshop. Totally overhaul it with a well-planned layout that makes optimum use of the available space.
4. Help the non-profit board I'm involved with streamline it's financial operations and investment portfolio. (Some of you may think that sounds boring. If you do, you really don't know me that well. I think it's fun! Sick, sick man you say? Yup!)
5. Take a long overdue vacation to Mendocino, California Explore the Northern California coastline and drink my way through the miles of wineries in Anderson Valley.
So?
Given more time, my resolutions should "go public" in a couple of weeks. Until then, the blog may be a little slow, but that describes me perfectly!
Friday, December 21, 2007
Now Look What I've Started
I Should Know Better
In my last post, I casually mentioned that the P-51 Mustang and the Supermarine Spitfire might be contenders for the title of "Best Fighter Plane of WWII." What a monster I created! So far, I have received telephone calls from five different "friends" who vociferously questioned the "quality" of my research. So, let's set the record straight!
I Know Nothing! (Courtesy of Sgt. Hans Shultz)
First, I didn't do any research on WWII Fighter Planes. My only source of information on them is incidental at best. Regarding the P-38, however, I can honestly say I have performed a ton of research and consider myself "informed" but hardly an "expert." (Those who know me are well aware of my aversion to anyone who is billed as an "expert" unless he or she holds advanced degrees and is at least 75 years old.)
So What Now?
I'm going back to chili recipes and wait patiently for seven more years when I will become an "expert" at something. I not sure what the discipline will be but I'm leaning toward psychotropic medicines.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Annual Tradition
In The Beginning
I started this blog in November, 2005 with two goals in mind:
1.) to create an online journal of my leisure activities and,
2.) to indulge my passion for things mechanical.
This post falls in the latter category. My interest the Lockheed P-38 Lightning was piqued at a very young age when my Dad built a model and hung it from my bedroom ceiling. I spent more nights than I can count staring at it until I finally fell asleep. In my mind, that was how airplanes were supposed to look. It wasn't until many years later I discovered what a truly unique design it was. Additionally, the man who headed the design team at Lockheed, Clarence Kelly, was from my home town! How cool is that?
True Confessions
I'll confess that the P-38 had its shortcomings, and will even admit it was not the greatest fighter plane ever made during WWII. Probably the P-51 Mustang and British Spitfire vie for that honor. But as something that could stir the soul of a young mechanically inclined boy, it was nonpareil. Maybe Santa will bring me one this year.
I started this blog in November, 2005 with two goals in mind:
1.) to create an online journal of my leisure activities and,
2.) to indulge my passion for things mechanical.
This post falls in the latter category. My interest the Lockheed P-38 Lightning was piqued at a very young age when my Dad built a model and hung it from my bedroom ceiling. I spent more nights than I can count staring at it until I finally fell asleep. In my mind, that was how airplanes were supposed to look. It wasn't until many years later I discovered what a truly unique design it was. Additionally, the man who headed the design team at Lockheed, Clarence Kelly, was from my home town! How cool is that?
True Confessions
I'll confess that the P-38 had its shortcomings, and will even admit it was not the greatest fighter plane ever made during WWII. Probably the P-51 Mustang and British Spitfire vie for that honor. But as something that could stir the soul of a young mechanically inclined boy, it was nonpareil. Maybe Santa will bring me one this year.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Wow! First December Post
Busy, busy, busy
This has been an interesting month. Lots of family related activities and very little time for blogging. Believe it or not, the rest of the month, including the impending Holidays, looks relatively tame compared to the past 30 days.
Premature Celebrating
The combination of my youngest son's graduation, visits by guests from out-of-town, plus an early Holiday open house, all contributed to massive To Do list revisions. With those activities behind me, everything else looks positively passive by comparison.
So, what's my plan for survival?
Daily naps friends. The seniors' Fountain of Youth!
I, (hand on copy of Woodworking Magazine) hearby swear to post highly important facts and fiction that will probably be shining examples of my fuzzy December focus.
And you can take that to the credit union!
This has been an interesting month. Lots of family related activities and very little time for blogging. Believe it or not, the rest of the month, including the impending Holidays, looks relatively tame compared to the past 30 days.
Premature Celebrating
The combination of my youngest son's graduation, visits by guests from out-of-town, plus an early Holiday open house, all contributed to massive To Do list revisions. With those activities behind me, everything else looks positively passive by comparison.
So, what's my plan for survival?
Daily naps friends. The seniors' Fountain of Youth!
I, (hand on copy of Woodworking Magazine) hearby swear to post highly important facts and fiction that will probably be shining examples of my fuzzy December focus.
And you can take that to the credit union!
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Father Time Saith
In The Beginning
There were self-important bloggers who felt their posts contained life-changing content and would eventually lead their readers to "The Ultimate Truth."
And Then There Was Father Time's Place
Disclosure: I'm in a weird post-Thanksgiving mode right now and procrastinating on my responsibilities as lead Christmas-light-putter-upper. Therefore I am merely trying to look like I'm catching up on my e-mail. So far it's working!
Regarding my earlier thoughts under "In The Beginning", I hope like heck NOT to follow the "self-important" model. This post alone should be proof of my intentions.
Roger out.
There were self-important bloggers who felt their posts contained life-changing content and would eventually lead their readers to "The Ultimate Truth."
And Then There Was Father Time's Place
Disclosure: I'm in a weird post-Thanksgiving mode right now and procrastinating on my responsibilities as lead Christmas-light-putter-upper. Therefore I am merely trying to look like I'm catching up on my e-mail. So far it's working!
Regarding my earlier thoughts under "In The Beginning", I hope like heck NOT to follow the "self-important" model. This post alone should be proof of my intentions.
Roger out.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Thanksgiving
Seems like I used this same picture last year........oh well.Here's wishing all of Father Time's extended family a wonderful family-oriented Thanksgiving. (If you're reading this, you're extended family but not in the will!)
If you are spending the holiday alone, I know from experience what you must be feeling. Don't worry though. The Friday shopping bargains will make you feel better. On the other hand, I don't know squat about shopping the day after Thanksgiving. I shop on December 24th. The stress is exquisite!
Friday, November 16, 2007
Father Time's Condensed Sports Page
Chapter 1
My team, Michigan, has a reputation for driving its fans crazy. It finds exciting new ways to get blown out against lesser teams, then in close games, comes through when the chips are down.
This year, Mrs. Time's alma mater, Oregon, started out by running over Michigan, went on to achieve national recognition, and was in the running for the BCS Championship Game.
Chapter 2
On Thursday November 15, 2007, Oregon played Arizona at Tucson. If you watched it on TV you'll know why our household is in mourning today. It was ugly. So much for a BCS Championship. Tsk, tsk, tsk. (Spell checker hates that word!)
Chapter 3
Now, if Michigan beats Ohio State this weekend, the Wolverines will go to the Rose Bowl. If Oregon wins its next two games, it will go to the Rose Bowl. And where does that leave things? Right back at the beginning of the season again, except for one small fact. Father Time flew to Michigan to witness the collapse against Oregon. If they meet again, Mrs. Time will fly to Pasadena to watch the rematch.
And The Winner Is?
The airlines.
My team, Michigan, has a reputation for driving its fans crazy. It finds exciting new ways to get blown out against lesser teams, then in close games, comes through when the chips are down.
This year, Mrs. Time's alma mater, Oregon, started out by running over Michigan, went on to achieve national recognition, and was in the running for the BCS Championship Game.
Chapter 2
On Thursday November 15, 2007, Oregon played Arizona at Tucson. If you watched it on TV you'll know why our household is in mourning today. It was ugly. So much for a BCS Championship. Tsk, tsk, tsk. (Spell checker hates that word!)
Chapter 3
Now, if Michigan beats Ohio State this weekend, the Wolverines will go to the Rose Bowl. If Oregon wins its next two games, it will go to the Rose Bowl. And where does that leave things? Right back at the beginning of the season again, except for one small fact. Father Time flew to Michigan to witness the collapse against Oregon. If they meet again, Mrs. Time will fly to Pasadena to watch the rematch.
And The Winner Is?
The airlines.
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
Son's Adventures In Space
Objective
My youngest son decided to explore space without using a "manned space vehicle." His transportation of choice - rubber bands. (He clearly takes after his Dad.)
Preparation
Finding a launch site in Oregon is easy - just look for a bridge over a deep canyon. This is actually the easiest part of the mission.
Launch
This part even included a count-down. It was 5-4-3-2-1... Ahhh "one" son. ONE SON!!! Somebody push him!
Flight
When the rocket engine finally fired, he was catapulted into.....well, "dropped" into space, and was out of sight in seconds. Totally amazing except for the blood curdling scream. Father Time handled it well, other than being unable to stop my head from shaking side-to-side when I'm awake. Hope Medicare handles it.
Perfect Form
Notice how calm and controlled my son is in the last picture. Especially note the perfect form of a man who is convinced he's going to die. What grace. What form. What composure!
Will Father Time Do This Soon?
Not on your life!
Monday, November 05, 2007
A Rare (for Father Time) Foray Into World Affairs
Editorial Comment
It's rare for this site to comment about anything political or to state personal opinions about world affairs. However, this headline caught my eye, especially since the situation in this part of the world is dealt with extensively on Richard Silverstein's blog.
What Prompted This Deviation From Tongue-In-Cheek?
My previous post about kayak's led me to a photograph on Richard's site. I wanted to use it for this blog, so I wrote to him requesting permission to use it here. He graciously agreed, so my post now includes a gorgeous picture of a cedar strip kayak in Seattle, Washington. While I was waiting for a response, I spent some time reading Richard's recent blog posts, and found him to be not only an educated man, but an eloquent one as well. Hence my foray - this one time - into a situation that the entire world has grappled with for centuries.
Thanks Richard, for staying the course for a negotiated, peaceful, non-militant settlement between Israel and Palestine.
It's rare for this site to comment about anything political or to state personal opinions about world affairs. However, this headline caught my eye, especially since the situation in this part of the world is dealt with extensively on Richard Silverstein's blog.
What Prompted This Deviation From Tongue-In-Cheek?
My previous post about kayak's led me to a photograph on Richard's site. I wanted to use it for this blog, so I wrote to him requesting permission to use it here. He graciously agreed, so my post now includes a gorgeous picture of a cedar strip kayak in Seattle, Washington. While I was waiting for a response, I spent some time reading Richard's recent blog posts, and found him to be not only an educated man, but an eloquent one as well. Hence my foray - this one time - into a situation that the entire world has grappled with for centuries.
Thanks Richard, for staying the course for a negotiated, peaceful, non-militant settlement between Israel and Palestine.
Friday, November 02, 2007
Other Distractions
Photo by Richard Silverstein*
More Reasons For Sporadic Blogging
Continuing the list of activities that consume too much of my time, we have this goody - finding the best set of plans for a home-built wooden kayak.
The criteria are:
1.) It must be wood since I have zero plastic-working skills;
2.) It must be somewhat simple in design so that someone with intermediate woodworking skills can complete it without investing in major league power tools;
3.) It must be out of the workshop in time for Spring hiking and trout fishing.
Have I found one? Not yet, but the research is delicious!
This particular design intrigues me because a close friend is thinking of taking a kayak trip down the Willamette river from Corvallis to Oregon City, Oregon. That gives me plenty of time to build one, increase my daily workout to focus on stamina and take my self-imposed lessons on surviving a rollover incident. That will put a crimp in my blogging but increase my inventory of nature photos. Not a bad trade off!
*See www.richardsilverstein.com. It's a great site!
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