Just some more pictures.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Winter Blunder Land & points north.
Alrighty then, I'm back in NYS and the weather could be worse but it ain't too bad overall. Yeah its cold, and icey and snowy and dreary and such but like a person once said 'Hey it could be worse'. That and I've been in worse, riding the open jump seats of the Fire Engine at Stewart Army Subpost in the dead of winter to the Marine Barracks for a sprinkler activation; Cold enough to pop the head in an upper floor room that night. Sleeping or trying to at least in a old Army issue sleeping bag in Hoenfelds Germany in January; Working on gasoline operated equipment while at Ft. Drum outdoors at night in January. So I ain't complaining as I've a roof over my head at night and by the end of february I should be running back south.
The run up the coast was easy enough on Monday, Overnighted near the 106 mile marker in North carolina and started early Tuesday morning for NY state. At the northbound junction of 295/95 in Virginia just north of Richmond traffic came to a crawl due to the usual ignorant southern driving technique of driving fast in poor conditions Took about an hour and a half to reach King's Dominion Exit and what seemed almost as long to get to Rt 207/ Ft. A.P. Hill exit. There I decided to top off my fuel tank before heading north again.
As for running north on I-95 that was ruled out when I heard sirens and watched two fire engines head north on I-95. I wasn't about to try my luck not knowing if they were responding to an incident in the N or S bound lanes. So i headed east on 207 til I reached U.S. 301 and took that N through what was left of Virginia, Maryland and Delaware to the NJ turnpike. The delays on Virginia were enough to cause me to catch the evening rush hour in jersey which means you get off the interstate and take the secondary roads to get by traffic of you take a 60 mile loop around on 287 to pick up Rt 17 to 32 to 107 and 9W to catch the Beacon/Newburgh bridge. Either way ends up taking about the same amount of time depending upon traffic conditions.
So as I said I'm back in NY for a little while and I've some work to keep me busy for now. Blood draw for my lab work up at the VA medical Center in Castle Point, Tax filings, Dental appointments and VA appointments in February. Along with doing some down & dirty Auto repairs on my brother's plow vehicle, and other brother's gasoline powered tools. So I won't be lacking for things to do between between now and my last medical appointment the end of february. I do need to consider changing the months of my annual visit to April and October; That way I can winter in the south and summer in the north.
OK some more photos from the deep south.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Thursday report before hitting the road.
So Life in Key West has been uneventful and the most practical mode of travel is really the Bicycle. The Van would be a nuisance to navigate through the crowds in some areas and the Motorcycle is OK but parking becomes problamatic for those items. The Bicycle can be chained to any convienent Bike Rack and boom you're within easy distance of any bar or tourist trap.
I'll be heading north on Friday back to NY and the winter. I'll probably talk to a fellow about selling my West Wright Potter and if he's got the cash he'll have the tittle the same day. For speed and easy of use a sailing dinghy may be more practical, I'll decide come summer.
Awaitning me in NY: Acouple of VA appointments; The need to see a state approved physician for a DOT physical; and study for the hazmat endorsement for my CDL drivers license; Little Brother's snow plow, it needs some repairs again, and the rest of Winter.
I doubt I'll stay there too long if i can't find a easy job but I'll see what I see.
Cheers & Prosit,
Q
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Stupid Biker/Motorcyclist Tricks, Isle of Bones, Key West.
Well in a few more days I'll be heading back to NY state for My annual visitation of the Castle Point VA hospital but I've some time yet to spend here in the Florida Keys. I've also a pile of work waiting for me at my Brother's place too when I return there.
But Stupid Biker/Motorcyclist tricks. As I've both my motorcycle and bicycle here I've freedom of transit for large distances on the island. And I tend to employ each mode of transportation as I see fit. For the local tourist sites the bicycle for running to the commissary generally the motorcycle.
Well Yesterday I road my bicycle to the main PX and picked up some gatoraid Although I would prefer Poweraid from the Commisary as its much less expensive. Still I've gotten enough to sustain me on my morning runs. But as I was leaving the Navy Complex a fast moving gale came through and provided me with a bit of a free rinse cycle. Well needless to say I was well covered with road grime when I returned to my camp site and showered off to commence my afternoon rambles.
As for Today (20 January, 2009. Inauguration Day for Mr. Obama) I did my standard run of about 5 & 3/4 miles and followed that with a motorcycle circuit of Key West. Well on my last 1/4 mile or so of road before entering the navy base I'm camped on; A gale line rolled across the island. According to the police officer at the gate I had basicly ridden under a water spout that had not touched land. UMmmmm OK I dodged a small tornado essentially and rode through it's displayed ground effects. Just another good reason to wear a helmet and leather jacket while riding the motorcycle (not just here but anywhere I go it seems)
Another thing I'm doing is paying attention to my banking via the computer. Its surprizingly easy but I'm wary of over spending and do so way too easily. Still barring any unfortunate instances I should be able to return to NY without any unreasonable expenses.
This week I may inquire about the availability of jobs here on Key West. I would consider a maintenance position for the fleet of tour buses as a posibility although I could also get a permit and busk the tourists for spare change by performing down by the docks too. Bagpiper with a attitude, sun burn and vaguely NY accent?
Well as I sit here doing laundry I'm checking my computer accounts and charging up my cell phone and two portable VHF marine radios. The VHF radios come in hand just for the NOAA weather reports and alerts. I'm not talking to any vessels but by monitoring specific channels I can also follow some of the local sail boat races as well.
So I'll conclude this report for now, Wish everyone well and don't be too jealous. I'm camping under some modest conditions that could be called just a step up from primitive.
Cheers & Prosit Alles!
Q
But Stupid Biker/Motorcyclist tricks. As I've both my motorcycle and bicycle here I've freedom of transit for large distances on the island. And I tend to employ each mode of transportation as I see fit. For the local tourist sites the bicycle for running to the commissary generally the motorcycle.
Well Yesterday I road my bicycle to the main PX and picked up some gatoraid Although I would prefer Poweraid from the Commisary as its much less expensive. Still I've gotten enough to sustain me on my morning runs. But as I was leaving the Navy Complex a fast moving gale came through and provided me with a bit of a free rinse cycle. Well needless to say I was well covered with road grime when I returned to my camp site and showered off to commence my afternoon rambles.
As for Today (20 January, 2009. Inauguration Day for Mr. Obama) I did my standard run of about 5 & 3/4 miles and followed that with a motorcycle circuit of Key West. Well on my last 1/4 mile or so of road before entering the navy base I'm camped on; A gale line rolled across the island. According to the police officer at the gate I had basicly ridden under a water spout that had not touched land. UMmmmm OK I dodged a small tornado essentially and rode through it's displayed ground effects. Just another good reason to wear a helmet and leather jacket while riding the motorcycle (not just here but anywhere I go it seems)
Another thing I'm doing is paying attention to my banking via the computer. Its surprizingly easy but I'm wary of over spending and do so way too easily. Still barring any unfortunate instances I should be able to return to NY without any unreasonable expenses.
This week I may inquire about the availability of jobs here on Key West. I would consider a maintenance position for the fleet of tour buses as a posibility although I could also get a permit and busk the tourists for spare change by performing down by the docks too. Bagpiper with a attitude, sun burn and vaguely NY accent?
Well as I sit here doing laundry I'm checking my computer accounts and charging up my cell phone and two portable VHF marine radios. The VHF radios come in hand just for the NOAA weather reports and alerts. I'm not talking to any vessels but by monitoring specific channels I can also follow some of the local sail boat races as well.
So I'll conclude this report for now, Wish everyone well and don't be too jealous. I'm camping under some modest conditions that could be called just a step up from primitive.
Cheers & Prosit Alles!
Q
Friday, January 16, 2009
Weekend Update, Isle of Bones,
January 16th, 2009 and I'm as far South as I can concievably get without leaving the Continental United Sates; Even though I'm on Key West, Florida.
So What has been going on so far; a lot and not too much.
Most impressive sounding achievement, but not really: I ran across the width of Florida, Twice! From the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean and back. Duval Street has been called the longest road in America due to its connecting tow major bodies of water but the average width of Key West is just one mile. So as I said impressive sounding but not really an impressive feat.
The cheapest way to see Key West, aside from being homeless here, is by RV and camping. For this trip I've redesignated my van as "The Tenament on Wheels" It is shelter from the winds blowing across the island and kitchen as well as Internet connection site and power source for the computer. I walk about a football field's distance to the showers and toilets. Camping on Sigsbee part of KW Naval Air Station is the cheapest way to do it at about 16 dollars a day. I'll be here till friday the 23rd when I start heading back north. I've a VA appointment on the 29th and generally see the Dr a week later and I've a dental appointment on the 19th of Feb.
The museums here are interesting and there is a lot of schlocky kitsch but its a different environment and I feel worth the visit so far. Pricey compared to the mainland but not overly so. Just look to keep within a strong budget.
I've found 2 irish Bars on the Island one in the old town/tourist district and one on the working side of the Island near the Airport on Flagler Ave. Neither are overly impressive although the expats from the UK seem to go to the working side. Black & Tans are $3.00 for a 16 oz glass and you can even get a 20oz Imperial Pint.
Well I've been running pretty much every morning. That and using the bicycle to get around is helping to keep my weight down. Blossom's Market near the gate for the USCG station has breakfast sandwiches for $2.50 and strong good cuban coffee. Unless you are directed to it you won't likely find it. Its a small establishment but pleasant.
I still find it disgusting when the locals call 60 degrees farenheit cold. Its not cold here but the breeze and wind has been a continuous factor. I'll put the pop up canopy up about mid-day as shelter from the sun, but come evening I bring it back down and secure the top canvas as the light weight thing wasn't designed with any wind loading in mind.
I won't even begin to estimate the miles I've run while on the island, but the highest elevation being only 16 feet, makes any run easy. Not anything at all like the trudgign jogs I've done up stoney Lonesome Road on West Point.
Well Not too much to add, The weather is pretty good overall, a wind breaker is about the worst I've needed. Unless I'm on the motorcycle, Then I want the leathers, two reasons; Wind protection and due to the way the locals drive I want some addition coverage for the skin if one decides they want my space on the road. They have an un-nerving tendency to swing wide on turns, and they aren't driving but sedans and pickup trucks.
Well that covers this week and I'll stay off line for a while.
Have a safe week everyone;
Q
So What has been going on so far; a lot and not too much.
Most impressive sounding achievement, but not really: I ran across the width of Florida, Twice! From the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean and back. Duval Street has been called the longest road in America due to its connecting tow major bodies of water but the average width of Key West is just one mile. So as I said impressive sounding but not really an impressive feat.
The cheapest way to see Key West, aside from being homeless here, is by RV and camping. For this trip I've redesignated my van as "The Tenament on Wheels" It is shelter from the winds blowing across the island and kitchen as well as Internet connection site and power source for the computer. I walk about a football field's distance to the showers and toilets. Camping on Sigsbee part of KW Naval Air Station is the cheapest way to do it at about 16 dollars a day. I'll be here till friday the 23rd when I start heading back north. I've a VA appointment on the 29th and generally see the Dr a week later and I've a dental appointment on the 19th of Feb.
The museums here are interesting and there is a lot of schlocky kitsch but its a different environment and I feel worth the visit so far. Pricey compared to the mainland but not overly so. Just look to keep within a strong budget.
I've found 2 irish Bars on the Island one in the old town/tourist district and one on the working side of the Island near the Airport on Flagler Ave. Neither are overly impressive although the expats from the UK seem to go to the working side. Black & Tans are $3.00 for a 16 oz glass and you can even get a 20oz Imperial Pint.
Well I've been running pretty much every morning. That and using the bicycle to get around is helping to keep my weight down. Blossom's Market near the gate for the USCG station has breakfast sandwiches for $2.50 and strong good cuban coffee. Unless you are directed to it you won't likely find it. Its a small establishment but pleasant.
I still find it disgusting when the locals call 60 degrees farenheit cold. Its not cold here but the breeze and wind has been a continuous factor. I'll put the pop up canopy up about mid-day as shelter from the sun, but come evening I bring it back down and secure the top canvas as the light weight thing wasn't designed with any wind loading in mind.
I won't even begin to estimate the miles I've run while on the island, but the highest elevation being only 16 feet, makes any run easy. Not anything at all like the trudgign jogs I've done up stoney Lonesome Road on West Point.
Well Not too much to add, The weather is pretty good overall, a wind breaker is about the worst I've needed. Unless I'm on the motorcycle, Then I want the leathers, two reasons; Wind protection and due to the way the locals drive I want some addition coverage for the skin if one decides they want my space on the road. They have an un-nerving tendency to swing wide on turns, and they aren't driving but sedans and pickup trucks.
Well that covers this week and I'll stay off line for a while.
Have a safe week everyone;
Q
Monday, January 12, 2009
Sleepless in Tarpon Springs, organizing my thoughts in the wee hours.
January 12, 2009, 02:50 AM, Sleep escapes me.
Yes, 02:50 AM and I'm awake now. I awoke at 02:00 after about 5 hours of sleep and couldn't drift back off. There is much I'll be doing over the next week and a half and its running through my head over and over about what I would like to accomplish.
Well what have I don in the past week? So litle and so much less. Sunday, January 4th I took my parents back to MS. and suffered my father well. Needless to say doing things his way as he insisted all I took with to MS, was a simple travel kit and the clothes upon my back. Oh I've could of brough a change of clothes and running shoes with me I'm certain but as he was going to load the car and do it his way there was limited room to carry much of any thing else.
How to describe it? Well for himself there was 1 large suit case and a garment bag, My mother had a small suitcase and the there were the winter coats and jackets on the left rear passenger seat of the small sedan. So I left my small duffle with a couple of changes of clothes in Fla and went with the clothes on my back. As he did want to force anything extra into the trunk, not that he would atempt to move anything to fit it into a tighter space. He sees only one way to do anything and that is the way it must be done.
Well I've had my fill of my father for the remainder of the year, I want to forget the past few weeks and it shall take me a while to do so. On thing I had considered was looking into either renting or purchasing a small home near my parents so that I could look in on them from time to time and check that they are OK. But I'm scrapping that plan; I don't need, want or desire the psychological abuse my father will place upon me. I refuse to do things his single bloody minded way. Where he'll break my back to achieve his goals in the cheapest possible way. It's just like when we went to purchase a TV set to replace an old one which failed. He wouldn't consider a 26 inch LCD flat screen HDTV weighing 17 pounds (8.5 kilos) as it was more money than he wanted to spend. So he purchased a 27 inch flat panel TV weighinh 88.2 pounds (44 Kilos) which he was no help with. He couldn't steady the shopping cart the Walmart Imbicles placed the TV in when I went to unload it into the back of my van while I unloaded it into my van; I asked for a warehouse flat truck to move the TV with because of it's dimensions and weight. Fuck Walmart and any fuck headed asshole who wants to be associated with the culture of ignorance.
Well the Old man has his 88.2 pound less expensive traditional screen TV and has seen the last of me for at least a year or more. I've had my fill of his ways. Anger issues? Um yes, why do you ask? Aside from using this to vent my frustrations its also a safer way of doing so.
So what else has occured over the past week? I was almost killed by a driver who blew through a redlight and made a left turn infront of me while I was on my motorcycle. I I thanked the stupid cow very nicely for trying to kill me. I can wait to get out of the greater Tampa area. This place is a bipedal recreation of a experiment done with rats some years ago. The rats where allowed all the food they wanted, the ability to breed without controls and no room for their populations to expand. Well the rats started to go insane. This palace is like a cage full of insane rats and no-one is considering that their behaviors aren't heling the situation.
I've purchased new running shoes, Had to as the old ones were worn heavily. I've worn the heels down to where the softer cushioned layer was exposed. May 24th will mark a year of running and I've covered 1184 miles thus far; with running 330 miles since the marathon in October.
Running with animals; no not dogs, just animals: Very often when i go running in the morning I'll startle animals along my route and they'll run trying to move away from me. Its funny inthat some times their chosen escape route parralels my direction of travel. So I'll have O'possums running in a drainage ditch alongside where I'm running they'll look back up at me and redouble their efforst to get away by trying to out run me in the same direction I'm running. That seems the most comical. I've had rabbits and skunks do the same as well. As for the deer that are about locally. Well they've keyed on me and have totally ignored the dogs being walked on leash closer to them. Again it amusing to watch them scramble to get away. As for comic relief the local farm & feral cats probably do it best. I've watched them dive into drainage culverts and then pop up and dart back in to the pipes till I pass.
Well putting my thoughts into words seems to have a tonic effect and I'm relaxing more now and may be able to drift off for some more sleep shortly. As for today though I'll be heading for Key West later this morning. I'll drag along my sailboat and hopefully use it for a few days out of the Ney West NAS, recreation area. While my parents where here in Fla, I just needed to escape the oppressive atmosphere that seemed to pervade where ever my father was and just spent hours at the beach or Starbucks. Ok I did have my bagpipes or practice chanters with me for other diversions but still it wasn't the way I'll spend my Christmas & New Years Holidays next year.
Final entry for this morning and then I'm done; I promise.
Sunday I helped my cousin and his neighbor hang some huge air plants into an old oak tree. We had to employ ropes and pullies arranged into a 5 to1 hoisting system to get the plants into the crooks of the tree limbs. Hard work but finished satifactorly none the less. So yes, I've accomplish some work I'm proud of and that helps the mind set.
Well good day all, have a safe and easy week.
Q.
Yes, 02:50 AM and I'm awake now. I awoke at 02:00 after about 5 hours of sleep and couldn't drift back off. There is much I'll be doing over the next week and a half and its running through my head over and over about what I would like to accomplish.
Well what have I don in the past week? So litle and so much less. Sunday, January 4th I took my parents back to MS. and suffered my father well. Needless to say doing things his way as he insisted all I took with to MS, was a simple travel kit and the clothes upon my back. Oh I've could of brough a change of clothes and running shoes with me I'm certain but as he was going to load the car and do it his way there was limited room to carry much of any thing else.
How to describe it? Well for himself there was 1 large suit case and a garment bag, My mother had a small suitcase and the there were the winter coats and jackets on the left rear passenger seat of the small sedan. So I left my small duffle with a couple of changes of clothes in Fla and went with the clothes on my back. As he did want to force anything extra into the trunk, not that he would atempt to move anything to fit it into a tighter space. He sees only one way to do anything and that is the way it must be done.
Well I've had my fill of my father for the remainder of the year, I want to forget the past few weeks and it shall take me a while to do so. On thing I had considered was looking into either renting or purchasing a small home near my parents so that I could look in on them from time to time and check that they are OK. But I'm scrapping that plan; I don't need, want or desire the psychological abuse my father will place upon me. I refuse to do things his single bloody minded way. Where he'll break my back to achieve his goals in the cheapest possible way. It's just like when we went to purchase a TV set to replace an old one which failed. He wouldn't consider a 26 inch LCD flat screen HDTV weighing 17 pounds (8.5 kilos) as it was more money than he wanted to spend. So he purchased a 27 inch flat panel TV weighinh 88.2 pounds (44 Kilos) which he was no help with. He couldn't steady the shopping cart the Walmart Imbicles placed the TV in when I went to unload it into the back of my van while I unloaded it into my van; I asked for a warehouse flat truck to move the TV with because of it's dimensions and weight. Fuck Walmart and any fuck headed asshole who wants to be associated with the culture of ignorance.
Well the Old man has his 88.2 pound less expensive traditional screen TV and has seen the last of me for at least a year or more. I've had my fill of his ways. Anger issues? Um yes, why do you ask? Aside from using this to vent my frustrations its also a safer way of doing so.
So what else has occured over the past week? I was almost killed by a driver who blew through a redlight and made a left turn infront of me while I was on my motorcycle. I I thanked the stupid cow very nicely for trying to kill me. I can wait to get out of the greater Tampa area. This place is a bipedal recreation of a experiment done with rats some years ago. The rats where allowed all the food they wanted, the ability to breed without controls and no room for their populations to expand. Well the rats started to go insane. This palace is like a cage full of insane rats and no-one is considering that their behaviors aren't heling the situation.
I've purchased new running shoes, Had to as the old ones were worn heavily. I've worn the heels down to where the softer cushioned layer was exposed. May 24th will mark a year of running and I've covered 1184 miles thus far; with running 330 miles since the marathon in October.
Running with animals; no not dogs, just animals: Very often when i go running in the morning I'll startle animals along my route and they'll run trying to move away from me. Its funny inthat some times their chosen escape route parralels my direction of travel. So I'll have O'possums running in a drainage ditch alongside where I'm running they'll look back up at me and redouble their efforst to get away by trying to out run me in the same direction I'm running. That seems the most comical. I've had rabbits and skunks do the same as well. As for the deer that are about locally. Well they've keyed on me and have totally ignored the dogs being walked on leash closer to them. Again it amusing to watch them scramble to get away. As for comic relief the local farm & feral cats probably do it best. I've watched them dive into drainage culverts and then pop up and dart back in to the pipes till I pass.
Well putting my thoughts into words seems to have a tonic effect and I'm relaxing more now and may be able to drift off for some more sleep shortly. As for today though I'll be heading for Key West later this morning. I'll drag along my sailboat and hopefully use it for a few days out of the Ney West NAS, recreation area. While my parents where here in Fla, I just needed to escape the oppressive atmosphere that seemed to pervade where ever my father was and just spent hours at the beach or Starbucks. Ok I did have my bagpipes or practice chanters with me for other diversions but still it wasn't the way I'll spend my Christmas & New Years Holidays next year.
Final entry for this morning and then I'm done; I promise.
Sunday I helped my cousin and his neighbor hang some huge air plants into an old oak tree. We had to employ ropes and pullies arranged into a 5 to1 hoisting system to get the plants into the crooks of the tree limbs. Hard work but finished satifactorly none the less. So yes, I've accomplish some work I'm proud of and that helps the mind set.
Well good day all, have a safe and easy week.
Q.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Monday, January 5th, 2009, 21:45 EDT.
Well I am getting ready to retire for the night. Today has been a challenge just to keep a civil tongue with my father. He tries the patience od anyone. That and my mother stirs the pot slightly as well. Oh I'm no inocent but even I understand (usually) when its best to keep a still tongue.
As for recent events, Yesterday i drove my parents back to MS, from FL. As my father has to do everything in his own way regardless of who may be affected All I've brought with me on this trip was the computer, my toilet kit and the clothes upon my back. Needless to say I'm not in a great mood. But i'm departing on wednesday morning come hell or highwater.
My Father has said that I may come back to MS on my way back north to bring two canoes up to my brothers and he would have a bill of sale ready for me to bring up with them. I have not inquired nor have my brothers inquired about the canoes. We've been rebuffed upon the issue previously and have decided to forget about the items. As for myself I'd rather just load them on the roof rack on my van and be off with them with out need to back track over 500 North and West from Southern FL when I return to NY for my Veterans Administration Hospital Appointments. As it is my Father presumes too much.
Well tomorrow I am to help him dispose of his old TV which ceased working a few months ago. I wasn't allowed to dispose of it in Novemebr as he needs to mark the cables feeding into it as they are. All that feeds into it is the Cable TV coaxial and the power cable. He has never figured out how to use the DVD player with the TV set in the den. Even though I've shown him repeatedly and even written down step by step instructions. Then I am to transport the new TV back to the house. Why is this? Its because on the old S-10 pickup truck he has there is a tonneau cover which has shrunk with age and it takes two men a bog and a educated Rolden Retriever with the gift of gab to get the cover back on after its been removed.
Thusly my currently empty Cargo Van is the prefect vehicle to carry the old TV and new one. Arrrgh, as Charlie brown would of exclaimed.
Since I am without my running shoes and related items i went for a 4&1/2 mile walk this morning instead, Oh that was after my father insisted upon making pancakes for breakfast. Myself, when I awaken I'd rather exercise and accomplish the needed tasks for the day. That way I can loaf without guilt. Well breakfast was done at 9Am at 9:30 AM I went for my walk and retuned at 11AM intime enough to get out for Lunch at 11:30AM. God save me before I consume food too early again. Well atleast I could choose the food I had for lunch and the blackened Catfish wasn't half bad.
After lunch I went over to Keesler AFB's Post exchange. 1 pair of Under Armour briefs, 2 knee braces and a 15 foot adjustable bungee cord kit later I departed. Checked out the wares in a Music Store, had a Mocha Chip Frozen beverage and practice lightly with my wooden Pakistani Chanter down by the entrance to Biloxi Bay as the fog finally lifted towards sunset..
Well Dinner was nice, and I went for a easy walk after eating then rolled the garbage can out by the road before showering and retiring to the bed room & weiting this before going to sleep tonight.
I shall check my e-mail and post this in the morning. There is no critical need to post it today and tomorrow morning is soon enough.
As for sleep, Well I should sleep comfortable, I've got the windows open and the cieling fan circulating the air. My father would find the suggested fires of hell a comfortable temperature but 70+ Farenheit is too warm for me. The Old man would have a coniption if he knew I had the windows open; Its winter and cold outside. Its January on the Gulf Coast, The temperature varies but I doubt we'll see 32 degrees F tonight. But the fresh air is so much better than the indoor staleness and stagnant air. Well I've pissed & moaned enoughh. Time to call it a night and pass out. Tomorrow I walk again. I need to, I eat too much and i can not afford t be sedentary. Being lazy is one thing , being imobile will kill me too soon and I know theres more for me in the world than relgating myself to a mausoleum at age 51.
Well Good night All, have a safe week and I'll post again soon.
Q
*************************************************************************************************************************Tuesday, Jan 6, 2009, 08:20 EDT, The Epithany also the feast of the 3 Wise Men, Kings or Magi dependant upon interpetation of the Bible.
Still In MS, Started the day with a 4 & 1/2 mile walk starting about 05:30 EDT and finishing about 07:55 EDT. My only pair of trousers were sweated through in the January warmth of MS. Although a male parental unit dresses like its the depths of a main winter here. As it was i took my shirt off during the walk to maintain a small level of comfort.
All and all I must emphasis that those people who grow up in the South and never travel else where are IGNORANT (Fill in the Blank) when actually having to describe cold weather. If one more weather broadcaster describs 40 degrees farenheit as cold in the winter he should be banished to International Falls MN for December, January and February with out adequate protective clothing. Southern Weather Forecastersa are IGNORANT OXYGEN THIEVES AND BUTT PIRATES!
Well after reading Wendy's blog this morning I know I'm in better conditions than many other people and have been blessed in comparison. I should have no reason to rant and rail as I do at times, but when I'm frustrated by individuals, it is better to blow off steam in this fashion than to remove them from the gene pool.
Well I am getting ready to retire for the night. Today has been a challenge just to keep a civil tongue with my father. He tries the patience od anyone. That and my mother stirs the pot slightly as well. Oh I'm no inocent but even I understand (usually) when its best to keep a still tongue.
As for recent events, Yesterday i drove my parents back to MS, from FL. As my father has to do everything in his own way regardless of who may be affected All I've brought with me on this trip was the computer, my toilet kit and the clothes upon my back. Needless to say I'm not in a great mood. But i'm departing on wednesday morning come hell or highwater.
My Father has said that I may come back to MS on my way back north to bring two canoes up to my brothers and he would have a bill of sale ready for me to bring up with them. I have not inquired nor have my brothers inquired about the canoes. We've been rebuffed upon the issue previously and have decided to forget about the items. As for myself I'd rather just load them on the roof rack on my van and be off with them with out need to back track over 500 North and West from Southern FL when I return to NY for my Veterans Administration Hospital Appointments. As it is my Father presumes too much.
Well tomorrow I am to help him dispose of his old TV which ceased working a few months ago. I wasn't allowed to dispose of it in Novemebr as he needs to mark the cables feeding into it as they are. All that feeds into it is the Cable TV coaxial and the power cable. He has never figured out how to use the DVD player with the TV set in the den. Even though I've shown him repeatedly and even written down step by step instructions. Then I am to transport the new TV back to the house. Why is this? Its because on the old S-10 pickup truck he has there is a tonneau cover which has shrunk with age and it takes two men a bog and a educated Rolden Retriever with the gift of gab to get the cover back on after its been removed.
Thusly my currently empty Cargo Van is the prefect vehicle to carry the old TV and new one. Arrrgh, as Charlie brown would of exclaimed.
Since I am without my running shoes and related items i went for a 4&1/2 mile walk this morning instead, Oh that was after my father insisted upon making pancakes for breakfast. Myself, when I awaken I'd rather exercise and accomplish the needed tasks for the day. That way I can loaf without guilt. Well breakfast was done at 9Am at 9:30 AM I went for my walk and retuned at 11AM intime enough to get out for Lunch at 11:30AM. God save me before I consume food too early again. Well atleast I could choose the food I had for lunch and the blackened Catfish wasn't half bad.
After lunch I went over to Keesler AFB's Post exchange. 1 pair of Under Armour briefs, 2 knee braces and a 15 foot adjustable bungee cord kit later I departed. Checked out the wares in a Music Store, had a Mocha Chip Frozen beverage and practice lightly with my wooden Pakistani Chanter down by the entrance to Biloxi Bay as the fog finally lifted towards sunset..
Well Dinner was nice, and I went for a easy walk after eating then rolled the garbage can out by the road before showering and retiring to the bed room & weiting this before going to sleep tonight.
I shall check my e-mail and post this in the morning. There is no critical need to post it today and tomorrow morning is soon enough.
As for sleep, Well I should sleep comfortable, I've got the windows open and the cieling fan circulating the air. My father would find the suggested fires of hell a comfortable temperature but 70+ Farenheit is too warm for me. The Old man would have a coniption if he knew I had the windows open; Its winter and cold outside. Its January on the Gulf Coast, The temperature varies but I doubt we'll see 32 degrees F tonight. But the fresh air is so much better than the indoor staleness and stagnant air. Well I've pissed & moaned enoughh. Time to call it a night and pass out. Tomorrow I walk again. I need to, I eat too much and i can not afford t be sedentary. Being lazy is one thing , being imobile will kill me too soon and I know theres more for me in the world than relgating myself to a mausoleum at age 51.
Well Good night All, have a safe week and I'll post again soon.
Q
*************************************************************************************************************************Tuesday, Jan 6, 2009, 08:20 EDT, The Epithany also the feast of the 3 Wise Men, Kings or Magi dependant upon interpetation of the Bible.
Still In MS, Started the day with a 4 & 1/2 mile walk starting about 05:30 EDT and finishing about 07:55 EDT. My only pair of trousers were sweated through in the January warmth of MS. Although a male parental unit dresses like its the depths of a main winter here. As it was i took my shirt off during the walk to maintain a small level of comfort.
All and all I must emphasis that those people who grow up in the South and never travel else where are IGNORANT (Fill in the Blank) when actually having to describe cold weather. If one more weather broadcaster describs 40 degrees farenheit as cold in the winter he should be banished to International Falls MN for December, January and February with out adequate protective clothing. Southern Weather Forecastersa are IGNORANT OXYGEN THIEVES AND BUTT PIRATES!
Well after reading Wendy's blog this morning I know I'm in better conditions than many other people and have been blessed in comparison. I should have no reason to rant and rail as I do at times, but when I'm frustrated by individuals, it is better to blow off steam in this fashion than to remove them from the gene pool.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
January 3rd and a bit of a rambling missive.
Saturday; January 3rd, 2009.
Yesterday; Fri Jan 2nd. I started the day with a 2.18 mile run. Followed that up by going to my Cousin's place and burning the day with him. We had a late breakfast at 10:30 AM followed by an excursion to a Lowes Box store for some materials for a project he is working upon at his business. Then the afternoon was spent with 2 hours of pulling Spanish Moss from a Myrtle (sic) Tree before heading to a Tap Room and Buffett for a early dinner. As for last evening, a good shower to wash the Spanish Moss Spores from my face arms and neck and a load of laundry whilst I played upon the computer. All in all a not too unusual day.
As for today Sat: Jan 3rd. I'm thinking I'll go down to Largo to the Armed forces Military Museum. It opens at noon, so I've time for a run this morning if I so choose.
As for recreational persuits, there is an advertisment filled free paper called Creative Loafing which can help provide ideas for places to go and things to do, experience and see. In a way I've become a bit of something for other winter vacationers to see as well. Not that I'm an exhibitionist, but I've been going down to the beach front locally for when I practice my bagpiping. So for a few other folks its been a different experience too.
In regards to future plans; Tomorrow I'm bringing my parents back to Mississippi and may spend a few days there. Upon my return to Florida I'm looking to head down to Key West NAS for at least a week. I'll use the campgrounds there for a base of operations while I explore the local color.
Well for now, I'll just live each day as it unfolds, be thankful for what I have and try to take things easy; regardless of how much some things or people will tend to annoy me. Well time to mellow out and start the day. Have a safe one everyone.
18:10 PM, 3 Jan,09. So what did I do today?
Well I didn't run; Time to give my feet and ankles a well earned rest after running every morning for the previous 36 days.
On the other hand I did do some recreational activities; Went to the American Armed Forces Museum in Largo. Its a nice little place with some very unique items. A Ford XM151 Jeep and a WWII GMC Duck along with Stewart Tanks and Sherman medium and a Chaffee Tank, Gama Goats, M35A2 and numerous other artifacts. The WWI Trench simulation is nice as is the St. Mere Inglese Display of WWII. The display on Pearl Harbor is staggering. The only drawback to the modest museum is that it isn't easy to find being tucked into anout of the way industrial park. The City of Largo and their Chamber of Commerce should advertise it and have its location better marked. It has potential to be a modest tourist draw.
I did purchase a new pair of jeans, I'm never thrilled with the aspect of going to WalMart but sorte in to one I did. In and out reasonably quick grabbed a pair from a common manufacturer (Wranglers made in Mexico) paid for em and left. I had purchased a pair of jeans at the AAFES on West Point last year made in South Africa. Oh the fit but they just never feel right. So I'm now up to two pair of relaxed fit Wrangler jeans.
So this afternoon I sat about and channel surfed for about two hours for the first time in months. The News of whats happening in Isreal and the Gaza Strip had had me slighly enthalled if thats the correct wording. Regardless of how the Islamic world responds, I do feel that Isreal has taken the correct response to the terrorist activities of Hamas.
In other things, My motorcycle is now fueled and locked up for a few days storage as I'll be driving my parents back to MS starting Sunday Morning. I'll be spending a couple of days there probably before returning to FL. I do want to get down to Key West and visit the area.
Another thing I did today was set up an on-line banking account with the Credit Union I am a member of. I do need to check on my account status from time to time so that I don't overspend. My money market account is a weak safety net but its all I've got if anything happens. Now I need to really restrict my spending habits. Prices will go up and my income is pretty much frozen. Whats even worse is that numerous states are looking for increased revenues by raising gas taxes. Yet I've never seen a politician support a pay freeze for himself as a cost savings measure for tax payers. Ah well some day I'll have the opprotunity to not assist a politician because I can't afford to assist them.
Well, 19:30 and the day is about done. I'll pull out my electronic bagpipes shortly and practice with that for a while. Then call it a night.
Have a safe night and upcoming week everyone.
Q
Yesterday; Fri Jan 2nd. I started the day with a 2.18 mile run. Followed that up by going to my Cousin's place and burning the day with him. We had a late breakfast at 10:30 AM followed by an excursion to a Lowes Box store for some materials for a project he is working upon at his business. Then the afternoon was spent with 2 hours of pulling Spanish Moss from a Myrtle (sic) Tree before heading to a Tap Room and Buffett for a early dinner. As for last evening, a good shower to wash the Spanish Moss Spores from my face arms and neck and a load of laundry whilst I played upon the computer. All in all a not too unusual day.
As for today Sat: Jan 3rd. I'm thinking I'll go down to Largo to the Armed forces Military Museum. It opens at noon, so I've time for a run this morning if I so choose.
As for recreational persuits, there is an advertisment filled free paper called Creative Loafing which can help provide ideas for places to go and things to do, experience and see. In a way I've become a bit of something for other winter vacationers to see as well. Not that I'm an exhibitionist, but I've been going down to the beach front locally for when I practice my bagpiping. So for a few other folks its been a different experience too.
In regards to future plans; Tomorrow I'm bringing my parents back to Mississippi and may spend a few days there. Upon my return to Florida I'm looking to head down to Key West NAS for at least a week. I'll use the campgrounds there for a base of operations while I explore the local color.
Well for now, I'll just live each day as it unfolds, be thankful for what I have and try to take things easy; regardless of how much some things or people will tend to annoy me. Well time to mellow out and start the day. Have a safe one everyone.
18:10 PM, 3 Jan,09. So what did I do today?
Well I didn't run; Time to give my feet and ankles a well earned rest after running every morning for the previous 36 days.
On the other hand I did do some recreational activities; Went to the American Armed Forces Museum in Largo. Its a nice little place with some very unique items. A Ford XM151 Jeep and a WWII GMC Duck along with Stewart Tanks and Sherman medium and a Chaffee Tank, Gama Goats, M35A2 and numerous other artifacts. The WWI Trench simulation is nice as is the St. Mere Inglese Display of WWII. The display on Pearl Harbor is staggering. The only drawback to the modest museum is that it isn't easy to find being tucked into anout of the way industrial park. The City of Largo and their Chamber of Commerce should advertise it and have its location better marked. It has potential to be a modest tourist draw.
I did purchase a new pair of jeans, I'm never thrilled with the aspect of going to WalMart but sorte in to one I did. In and out reasonably quick grabbed a pair from a common manufacturer (Wranglers made in Mexico) paid for em and left. I had purchased a pair of jeans at the AAFES on West Point last year made in South Africa. Oh the fit but they just never feel right. So I'm now up to two pair of relaxed fit Wrangler jeans.
So this afternoon I sat about and channel surfed for about two hours for the first time in months. The News of whats happening in Isreal and the Gaza Strip had had me slighly enthalled if thats the correct wording. Regardless of how the Islamic world responds, I do feel that Isreal has taken the correct response to the terrorist activities of Hamas.
In other things, My motorcycle is now fueled and locked up for a few days storage as I'll be driving my parents back to MS starting Sunday Morning. I'll be spending a couple of days there probably before returning to FL. I do want to get down to Key West and visit the area.
Another thing I did today was set up an on-line banking account with the Credit Union I am a member of. I do need to check on my account status from time to time so that I don't overspend. My money market account is a weak safety net but its all I've got if anything happens. Now I need to really restrict my spending habits. Prices will go up and my income is pretty much frozen. Whats even worse is that numerous states are looking for increased revenues by raising gas taxes. Yet I've never seen a politician support a pay freeze for himself as a cost savings measure for tax payers. Ah well some day I'll have the opprotunity to not assist a politician because I can't afford to assist them.
Well, 19:30 and the day is about done. I'll pull out my electronic bagpipes shortly and practice with that for a while. Then call it a night.
Have a safe night and upcoming week everyone.
Q
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Happy New Year.
Happy New Year
1 January, 2009
Well today is Thursday, January 1st 2009. The first day of a new year. Resolutions? I've none; Not that I couldn't make a few. Its just easier not to make any and then I don't disappoint myself by breaking them.
So how did I start the New Year? by sleeping out the old and sleeping in the new. I woke about 5:00 AM and got dressed for a run. Long Sleeve Cotton Tshirt, wicking drawers and supplex shorts, knee braces, socks and worn out running shoes which need replacing. Lets not forget a MP3 player, small traffic wand, reflective belt and headband. Then off I waddled into the morning darkness; obstenably to run 4.5 miles, but ran 8.05 miles instead followed by a quick dip in the pool all before sunrise.
Breakfast after such a work out consisted of half a grapefruit, medium banana, small orange juice and left over lasgna. While I may not be an overweight sarcastic furball of a cartoon cat the lasagna probably didn't help with the mental imagery.
So how did I end the year yesterday? Started with a shorter morning run of just 5.6 miles making my recorded total for 2008; 1145.66 miles, for the month of December 164.48 miles. It would be interesting to see what sort of mileage I would of recorded had I been doing so since the first of last year. But thats neither here or there. Last year I ran in three 5K races, one 10K race, two Half Marathons, and one Full Marathon. While I never won a race, I did finish every one I entered. I also raise a bit of money for charity too over the course of last year as part of my preparation for the Marine Corps Marathon. So all in all it wasn't a bad year.
It was an even better year for many of my friends and cousin who all returned from Iraq.
It wasn't a great year for Team Guinan, John Guinan passed on back in June from a brain cancer, Jim Guinan closed his family store last january and another patron Mike Mihalic passed as well. But for all the losses Team Guinan persevered and raised funds for Braking the Cycle, John's charity effort and rode in the 275 mile Gettysburg to Manhattan cross country ride. On a note inline with that I was fortunate to support Team Guinan for that effort. I was even more fortunate to recover a lost member of Team Eagle who strayed onto another cross country bicycle ride course similarly marked as Braking the Cycle's route.
So alot of good things happend last year even with a few bad occurances. Yes, the economy isn't as good as it should be. The price of gasoline has gone up and down like a manic depressive bouncing between exstacy and depression and I needed a new transmission for my van. But overall I've had life pretty good and stand no reason to complain about my lot in life. I've been blessed with a comfortable life, good friends and a healthy extended family as much as my Aunt and Father drive me up the wall.
As for what the new year shall bring, I shan't hazard a guess, no predictions, no estimates, no conjectures.
Life shall go on and I shall muddle through as I am wont to do. But for now I'd like to wish everyone a happy, healthy, safe and rewarding 2009.
As part of a Holiday Running Challenge I participated in here are my miles for 27 Nov to 31 Dec 2008 and 1 Jan 2009.
Team East.
1 Jan, 8.05 /
31 Dec, 5.6 / 30 Dec, 5.6 / 29 Dec, 5.6 / 28 Dec, 4.5 / 27 Dec, 8.05 /
26 Dec, 4.5 / 25 Dec, 5.6 / 24 Dec, 6.7 / 23 Dec, 6.7 / 22 Dec, 4.5 /
21 Dec, 4.5 / 20 Dec, 4.5 / 19 Dec, 5.6 / 18 Dec, 5.6 / 17 Dec, 4.5 /
16 Dec, 4.5 / 15 Dec, 2.68 / 14 Dec, 13.1 / 13 Dec, 2.68 / 12 Dec, 4.5 /
11 Dec, 4.5 / 10 Dec, 4.6 / 9 Dec, 6.55 / 8 Dec, 4.5 / 7 Dec, 4.5 /
6 Dec, 6.55 / 5 Dec, 4.5 / 4 Dec, 6.93 / 3 Dec, 4.5 / 2 Dec, 4.5 /
1 Dec, 4.5 /
30 Nov, 4.5 / 29 Nov, 13.1 / 28 Nov, 4.5 / 27 Nov, 4.4
Nov = 26.5 miles
Dec = 164.48 miles
Jan = 8.05 miles
Holiday E/W challenge for myself 199.03 as of 1 Jan. Tomorrow Jan 2nd, I don't plan to run for a change. My legs, knees, ankles and feet can use a rest.
And thus concludes a year of running and starts a new year of running.
Have a safe year everyone.
Q
1 January, 2009
Well today is Thursday, January 1st 2009. The first day of a new year. Resolutions? I've none; Not that I couldn't make a few. Its just easier not to make any and then I don't disappoint myself by breaking them.
So how did I start the New Year? by sleeping out the old and sleeping in the new. I woke about 5:00 AM and got dressed for a run. Long Sleeve Cotton Tshirt, wicking drawers and supplex shorts, knee braces, socks and worn out running shoes which need replacing. Lets not forget a MP3 player, small traffic wand, reflective belt and headband. Then off I waddled into the morning darkness; obstenably to run 4.5 miles, but ran 8.05 miles instead followed by a quick dip in the pool all before sunrise.
Breakfast after such a work out consisted of half a grapefruit, medium banana, small orange juice and left over lasgna. While I may not be an overweight sarcastic furball of a cartoon cat the lasagna probably didn't help with the mental imagery.
So how did I end the year yesterday? Started with a shorter morning run of just 5.6 miles making my recorded total for 2008; 1145.66 miles, for the month of December 164.48 miles. It would be interesting to see what sort of mileage I would of recorded had I been doing so since the first of last year. But thats neither here or there. Last year I ran in three 5K races, one 10K race, two Half Marathons, and one Full Marathon. While I never won a race, I did finish every one I entered. I also raise a bit of money for charity too over the course of last year as part of my preparation for the Marine Corps Marathon. So all in all it wasn't a bad year.
It was an even better year for many of my friends and cousin who all returned from Iraq.
It wasn't a great year for Team Guinan, John Guinan passed on back in June from a brain cancer, Jim Guinan closed his family store last january and another patron Mike Mihalic passed as well. But for all the losses Team Guinan persevered and raised funds for Braking the Cycle, John's charity effort and rode in the 275 mile Gettysburg to Manhattan cross country ride. On a note inline with that I was fortunate to support Team Guinan for that effort. I was even more fortunate to recover a lost member of Team Eagle who strayed onto another cross country bicycle ride course similarly marked as Braking the Cycle's route.
So alot of good things happend last year even with a few bad occurances. Yes, the economy isn't as good as it should be. The price of gasoline has gone up and down like a manic depressive bouncing between exstacy and depression and I needed a new transmission for my van. But overall I've had life pretty good and stand no reason to complain about my lot in life. I've been blessed with a comfortable life, good friends and a healthy extended family as much as my Aunt and Father drive me up the wall.
As for what the new year shall bring, I shan't hazard a guess, no predictions, no estimates, no conjectures.
Life shall go on and I shall muddle through as I am wont to do. But for now I'd like to wish everyone a happy, healthy, safe and rewarding 2009.
As part of a Holiday Running Challenge I participated in here are my miles for 27 Nov to 31 Dec 2008 and 1 Jan 2009.
Team East.
1 Jan, 8.05 /
31 Dec, 5.6 / 30 Dec, 5.6 / 29 Dec, 5.6 / 28 Dec, 4.5 / 27 Dec, 8.05 /
26 Dec, 4.5 / 25 Dec, 5.6 / 24 Dec, 6.7 / 23 Dec, 6.7 / 22 Dec, 4.5 /
21 Dec, 4.5 / 20 Dec, 4.5 / 19 Dec, 5.6 / 18 Dec, 5.6 / 17 Dec, 4.5 /
16 Dec, 4.5 / 15 Dec, 2.68 / 14 Dec, 13.1 / 13 Dec, 2.68 / 12 Dec, 4.5 /
11 Dec, 4.5 / 10 Dec, 4.6 / 9 Dec, 6.55 / 8 Dec, 4.5 / 7 Dec, 4.5 /
6 Dec, 6.55 / 5 Dec, 4.5 / 4 Dec, 6.93 / 3 Dec, 4.5 / 2 Dec, 4.5 /
1 Dec, 4.5 /
30 Nov, 4.5 / 29 Nov, 13.1 / 28 Nov, 4.5 / 27 Nov, 4.4
Nov = 26.5 miles
Dec = 164.48 miles
Jan = 8.05 miles
Holiday E/W challenge for myself 199.03 as of 1 Jan. Tomorrow Jan 2nd, I don't plan to run for a change. My legs, knees, ankles and feet can use a rest.
And thus concludes a year of running and starts a new year of running.
Have a safe year everyone.
Q
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