But that don't mean nuttin. Still the trees are changing color and yesterday's and today's rain & winds are beating down the leaves. Yep one may get the feeling that winter is closing in fast.
So 17 days since the last posting and I'm still out training for the 3rd Marine Corps Marathon, Practicing (not as much as I should) on the Bagpipes, Performing to the best of my weak abilities with the Stephen P. Driscoll Memorial pipes & Drums and looking expectantly to returning to Mississippi after Election Day.
The weather has been the more difficult of conditions to cope with these past few weeks as the ttemperature swings have been on the warmer, read hotter, side of normal. Still running in the down pour on Thursday was a welcome change from the heat & humidity. Still a warm humid run as the strom was pumping the moist air up from along the Carribean and Florida coastal regions.
Now along with the weather of which everyone on the eastern seaboard is tired of; I've been making like Forest Gump still and running (Well at least I call it that) in preparation for the 35th Marine Corps Marathon. Last month 126 miles the previous month 128 miles. Not that one would call those extreme amounts as others preping for the marathon are clocking up to 200 miles in a month. As for myself, I'm accepting of my slower pace and longer times. Still for Saturday October 2nd, I've a 30 kilometer training run on tap or roughly 18.6 miles for the metricly impaired.
As for this weekend I'm also in a different location to sleep tonight. as I'm house sitting for my youngest brother and Lexi the Wonder Dog, We wonder why it hasn't died yet. Not that we want her to its just that she is that ancient and decrepit for a medium sized dog. Still I expect to be awakened within an hour of going to bed inorder for her to go out and take care of business. Lets just say that the nephews, sister-in law and brother are preoccpied at times and don't take notice of her needs.
So thats my grousings about family. hey politics. Anyone besides myself tired of all that bullshit yet? I've a suggestion to make the process faster exciting and more interesting. Instead of political discussion forums we give the arses rifles and live ammo to try to take each other out with. Then we can vote for the survivor of our choice on election day. But that would never fly. Sort of like charging the candidates ano less than $100.00 per campaign sign left up past 48 hours after closing of the polls. Because by that point its no longer an eyesore but out & out littering and penalties should be applied.
OK folks have a safe week and relax afterall some Toady is gonna suck up to you for your vote or sling mud for the politcal soap opera.
Cheers.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Monday, September 13, 2010
September 13th, 2010 and its a Monday too.
Hey everyone, I know I haven't posted any photos of this year's loonacy and some of my travels but I'll tell you where you might see some.
The Stephen P. Driscoll Memorial Pipes & Drums face book page.
OK since August I've still been out preparing for the Halloween Day Marathon which starts at the Pentagon and ends at the Marine Corps Monument in Northern Virginia and passes through Washington D.C.
Had a little fun with some chalk on the Putnam County rail trail near where the 51 mile marker should be. Hey little green men and flying saucers; what? I should draw illegal aliens? now that would be a bias issue then and I'm not PC as it is.
This past Saturday the Pipe band performed at two events and Fiddlers Green Pub in Carmel.
The first was a fund raiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters in the area of Putnam Lake. The pipes had a bewildering effect upon the polo players horses there. and while I watched a bit of the action I couldn't quite follow it.
The second was the Putnam County 9/11 memorial at the juction of Rt 52 and Fair St. in Carmel, NY. Againt it was a packed crowd and the weather was with us as it was a very pleasant evening.
Finally after the memorial we adjourned to the Fiddler's Green at Putnam Plaza for a few libations and a performance upon the bar. Yes you can get 9 bagpipers and 3 drummers on the bar there not that I felt comfortable upon it staring at the whirling fan blades a couple of feet (felt like inches) infront of my face.
Aside from occasionally house sitting the wonder dog, yes its still alive, I've been very mobile in Putnam, Dutchess and Fairfield Counties and occasionally Orange & Pike.
I've been released from Physical Therapy at the VA, the knees are still wobbly but the muscle strenght is improved, you'd think with prepping for a marathon there wouldn't be an issue but different sets of muscles act upon the patella and the connective tissue in various ways. So it was a matter of the supportive muscles being streghtened.
My younger brother has taken a buyout and retired from Verizon, now I'm also acting as a good pair of arms for him. Just before retirement he had an on the job injury which neccessitated reconstructive surgery for his shoulder a couple of screws and reconnection of the tendons 7 ligaments, so I've been up to his place on a semi regular basis to get stuff done for him. Also His Father-in-law has finally passed on so there is a different type of relief now for his family.
Yesterday, I was supposed to traipse over to Pike County to help my olderst brother clean his chimney but as it was raining there other events took place, and spending some time with the youngest brother's wonder dog was top of the game plan.
As for the Parents in Mississippi, I expect to be there in November as has been been the standard for the past two years unless Mom calls me down earlier, Dad has Cancer (again) and is undergoing Chemo for it so he's less able than he's been to do things and has given up driving for now. Along with that I doubt I shall take them over to Florida so that my Mom can visit with her sister for the Christmas and New Years Holidays this year.
So between concerns for a family spread between the Northeast and the Gulf Coast along with relatives in Virginia and Florida I tend to travel abit through the year. with the big migrations being in late Spring and late Fall.
So thats about it, just running around and getting life done. Having some enjoyment of life and not worrying about things I have little to no control over.
Now remember School is open, leave earlier than you normally would and you won't be confounded by school busses too much. Don't figure in the school busses and you're gonna set yourself up for uclers.
Be safe everyone and don't do anything too stupid. Obama care won't pay the ER bills.
The Stephen P. Driscoll Memorial Pipes & Drums face book page.
OK since August I've still been out preparing for the Halloween Day Marathon which starts at the Pentagon and ends at the Marine Corps Monument in Northern Virginia and passes through Washington D.C.
Had a little fun with some chalk on the Putnam County rail trail near where the 51 mile marker should be. Hey little green men and flying saucers; what? I should draw illegal aliens? now that would be a bias issue then and I'm not PC as it is.
This past Saturday the Pipe band performed at two events and Fiddlers Green Pub in Carmel.
The first was a fund raiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters in the area of Putnam Lake. The pipes had a bewildering effect upon the polo players horses there. and while I watched a bit of the action I couldn't quite follow it.
The second was the Putnam County 9/11 memorial at the juction of Rt 52 and Fair St. in Carmel, NY. Againt it was a packed crowd and the weather was with us as it was a very pleasant evening.
Finally after the memorial we adjourned to the Fiddler's Green at Putnam Plaza for a few libations and a performance upon the bar. Yes you can get 9 bagpipers and 3 drummers on the bar there not that I felt comfortable upon it staring at the whirling fan blades a couple of feet (felt like inches) infront of my face.
Aside from occasionally house sitting the wonder dog, yes its still alive, I've been very mobile in Putnam, Dutchess and Fairfield Counties and occasionally Orange & Pike.
I've been released from Physical Therapy at the VA, the knees are still wobbly but the muscle strenght is improved, you'd think with prepping for a marathon there wouldn't be an issue but different sets of muscles act upon the patella and the connective tissue in various ways. So it was a matter of the supportive muscles being streghtened.
My younger brother has taken a buyout and retired from Verizon, now I'm also acting as a good pair of arms for him. Just before retirement he had an on the job injury which neccessitated reconstructive surgery for his shoulder a couple of screws and reconnection of the tendons 7 ligaments, so I've been up to his place on a semi regular basis to get stuff done for him. Also His Father-in-law has finally passed on so there is a different type of relief now for his family.
Yesterday, I was supposed to traipse over to Pike County to help my olderst brother clean his chimney but as it was raining there other events took place, and spending some time with the youngest brother's wonder dog was top of the game plan.
As for the Parents in Mississippi, I expect to be there in November as has been been the standard for the past two years unless Mom calls me down earlier, Dad has Cancer (again) and is undergoing Chemo for it so he's less able than he's been to do things and has given up driving for now. Along with that I doubt I shall take them over to Florida so that my Mom can visit with her sister for the Christmas and New Years Holidays this year.
So between concerns for a family spread between the Northeast and the Gulf Coast along with relatives in Virginia and Florida I tend to travel abit through the year. with the big migrations being in late Spring and late Fall.
So thats about it, just running around and getting life done. Having some enjoyment of life and not worrying about things I have little to no control over.
Now remember School is open, leave earlier than you normally would and you won't be confounded by school busses too much. Don't figure in the school busses and you're gonna set yourself up for uclers.
Be safe everyone and don't do anything too stupid. Obama care won't pay the ER bills.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Wow things are getting Hot!.
Besides the current high temps and humidity which have been abusive its the other things in life which have been heating up.
Well it is August and the Dog Days are upon us. Even the Wonder Dog (So ancient & decrepit we wonder how it still lives) is loath to go outside and prefers the shade of the basement.
As for myself SPF 100 is a common item in my bag of tricks for sun avoidance. I've even been sighted sporting a Non La (Vietnamese conical hat) while out doing some yard work. Yeah biggest damn Asian Gardener you'll never see.
The Standup Paddle Board has been used a bit and generally garners some questions and quizzical looks as I paddle about upon it. Even so I play upon the waters usually early in the morning or late in the evening. I've startled deer along the shore of lakes and have confounded Geese Swans and Ducks, Even some of the shore dogs don't know what to make of me paddling it about.
Still training up for a 3rd & final attempt at a marathon distance. My times are noticably off from last year, I wonder if the fact I'm attending Physical Therapy for my knees and am awaiting orthotics has anything to add to that uncomfortable fact?
As for how slow? Last year 10 miles in an average of one hour & fifty minutes wasn't bad. This year 9 miles has taken that long. I doubt I shall make my personal goal of finishing at 5 hours or less, so the goal has been revised to just complete the event this year on Halloween Day.
As for this past weekend, I participated in two bagpiping events. The Volunteer Firemans Parade in Ossining on Friday evening. Pipefest aboard the USS Intrepid on Saturday.
For the event on the Intrepid there were two goals. One was to raise funds for charity and the other was to set a Guinness World Record of Largest Assembled Pipe Band on a Warship. I haven't found out what the numbers were yet, the goal was 500 but one source said over 188 performers.
The following are links to other people's phots and videos of the event.
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=31411044&op=1&o=all&view=all&subj=68338274405&aid=-1&oid=68338274405&id=1052688172
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CeSf86foPzk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aI8Ur8XYGNs&NR=1
Well it was a short update and I'll be running off in a bit.
Stay cool keep hydrated and be safe this summer.
Well it is August and the Dog Days are upon us. Even the Wonder Dog (So ancient & decrepit we wonder how it still lives) is loath to go outside and prefers the shade of the basement.
As for myself SPF 100 is a common item in my bag of tricks for sun avoidance. I've even been sighted sporting a Non La (Vietnamese conical hat) while out doing some yard work. Yeah biggest damn Asian Gardener you'll never see.
The Standup Paddle Board has been used a bit and generally garners some questions and quizzical looks as I paddle about upon it. Even so I play upon the waters usually early in the morning or late in the evening. I've startled deer along the shore of lakes and have confounded Geese Swans and Ducks, Even some of the shore dogs don't know what to make of me paddling it about.
Still training up for a 3rd & final attempt at a marathon distance. My times are noticably off from last year, I wonder if the fact I'm attending Physical Therapy for my knees and am awaiting orthotics has anything to add to that uncomfortable fact?
As for how slow? Last year 10 miles in an average of one hour & fifty minutes wasn't bad. This year 9 miles has taken that long. I doubt I shall make my personal goal of finishing at 5 hours or less, so the goal has been revised to just complete the event this year on Halloween Day.
As for this past weekend, I participated in two bagpiping events. The Volunteer Firemans Parade in Ossining on Friday evening. Pipefest aboard the USS Intrepid on Saturday.
For the event on the Intrepid there were two goals. One was to raise funds for charity and the other was to set a Guinness World Record of Largest Assembled Pipe Band on a Warship. I haven't found out what the numbers were yet, the goal was 500 but one source said over 188 performers.
The following are links to other people's phots and videos of the event.
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=31411044&op=1&o=all&view=all&subj=68338274405&aid=-1&oid=68338274405&id=1052688172
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CeSf86foPzk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aI8Ur8XYGNs&NR=1
Well it was a short update and I'll be running off in a bit.
Stay cool keep hydrated and be safe this summer.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
July is finished, but I'm not.
Yes today is the last day of July 2010 and in a way I'm glad to see it go. This past month has been brutally warm & humid. While today did start reasonably cooler and less humid, the heat did creep up again.
So since my last entry on the 14th, quite abit has occured, and some folks are still going WTF?!.
I've a clock I keep set to Greenwich Mean Time. During the hours of Day Light Savings, I just need to remember it is four hours ahead of local time. For some reason I get the queerist looks when some unfortunate soul asks me what the time is and I respond with a 24 hour clock reference and zulu time. So if its noontime; 12:00hours local it is 16:00 ZULU Time and what does that have to do with the current time? absolutely nothing unless I've been playing around with the sextent and practicing the mathematical computations for a Latitude & Longitude reference. So it just gives me something I can mess around peole's heads with.
Now I've probably stated this in the past but if not it is no big deal. I've got 3 brother's and we all have a large and overlapping sphere of friends and aquaintences.
Still I'll come across folks I know and they'll say either I saw your brother or to say hi to my brother for them and invariably I respond back "Which one?". In the NY, CT and PA region I hit across all three states having had worked and or lived in them at various times. My oldest brother lives in PA and my two younger brothers live here in NY. But we've got numerous contacts in CT & PA. So if anyone says to me say hi to my brother please reference the one you're intending or I my give regards to the wrong one again & again....
Then there is the Annual Irish Feis at Athony Wayne Recreation Area, Its a fun time and there are numerous bands & bagpipes performing along with the step dancers.
When you get tired of the Pipes & Drums I do suggest that you watch the step dancers, They can be very entertaining. As for getting there I go by motorcycle. I'm required to by law. Yes it is a legal neccessity that I travel by motorbike to the Feis. You might consider that strange, and it may well be. However I don't need to get a ticket from the NY State Park Police for operating a Commercial Vehicle on the Parkway without a permit. And my van is registered as a that. Still the feis was warm and sunny but I took it in stride sporting an umbrella as a sunshade while watching the events while others baked in the broiling sun.
Ah in regards to my brothers. One is now out of work and laid up after undergoing surgery to repair his right shoulder. Man that was on impressive bruise the Doctors imparted on him. He was employed by a Telephone company and while out to do some work on the right of way he found himself dropping inot an improperly marked hole in the ground. So he's got torn connective tissue the doctors had to find both in his arm and chest to attach to pins now set in his shoulder. Now as he's still healing up from the surgery I'll be at his place about once a week on average to assist with a few chores; Torching and monitoring brush piles as they burn; Weed wacking around the yard or pressurewashing the house....Simple things really but difficult enough if your arm is laid up.
As for physical activities, I'm still intending to train up for and complete a third marathon. This is absolutely my final one. The knees aren't what they used to be and I'm going to Physical Therapy twice a week for the same issue as last time I went.
So with kneebraces in place I do get out and run. Admittedly much slower than in previous years. Still I find myself needing to maintain a moderae level of physical activity and to that end I've brought a new water toy. The good news is its not a boat; sail, power or row. Its not a canoe, I've got one and access to two more. Its a Stand Up Paddleboard or a SUP for short. You don't need a great sense of balance to use one but a measure of balance is handy as well as good knees or in my case good knee braces/supports. Think of a 10&1/2 to 12 foot long surfboard as might be found in the old Gidget movies and rather than kneeling upon it or laying on your belly and paddling with your hands to move along; You use a long paddle similar to a canoe paddle to propel yourself through the waters. The longest distance I've covered is roughly 2&1/2 miles and its a fair upper body work out. Not high im-act but assuredly aerobic.
Say did I mention Bagpipes? Well this summer I've been practicing and playing with the Stephen Driscoll Memorial Pipe Band . Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 704. Its been fun educational and interesting. As for bagpiping Next weekend there are two events I'll be involved with. The Volunteer Firemans' Parade down by Sing Sing Prison and Pipefest on the Intrepid Museum in NYC on August 7th. The organizers are looking to set a Guinness Record as well; So I'll be down there with members of the band.
Sporting events I'm not participating in as a contestant; Lake Placid NY, The Ironman competition. 2.4 miles of swimming, 112 miles of bicycling and 26.2 miles of running. Yeah and I'm nuts for doing a simple standalong marathon. But I was there this year assisting with the volunteer security. I now remember that the general public is ignorant and should be given direction reinforced with the swinging of a riot batton. But all in all it was an interesting experience there and I'm not too certain about doing that again. But aside from the drive up, meals and beer my cost was minimal and sleeping accomodations very adequate. Just a few steps above primitive but not terribly so. for if I choose I had full access to internet connections and a host of electronic services.
Finally since I'm not writing a newer version of War & Peace. as stated earlier I'm preparing for a 3rd and final marathon. The Marine Corps Marathon again in Washington DC and this year it is being held on Halloween Day! YEA! So as for training I am about 1/2 to my training goal with three months left to the event and today's long run was 20 kilometers. That is 12.42 miles for the metricly challenged. While my pace is off from last year, gee I wonder why, I'm certain I can successfully complete this.
So that pretty much covers in words what's been going on in my immediate world and By Thanksgiving if not earlier for reasons beyond my control I'll be in MS visitng with the parents and probably pressure washing their home too.
So for now have a very safe summer everyone stay hydrated and keep good spirits about yourself; It'll make the unhappy people wonder what you are up to.
So since my last entry on the 14th, quite abit has occured, and some folks are still going WTF?!.
I've a clock I keep set to Greenwich Mean Time. During the hours of Day Light Savings, I just need to remember it is four hours ahead of local time. For some reason I get the queerist looks when some unfortunate soul asks me what the time is and I respond with a 24 hour clock reference and zulu time. So if its noontime; 12:00hours local it is 16:00 ZULU Time and what does that have to do with the current time? absolutely nothing unless I've been playing around with the sextent and practicing the mathematical computations for a Latitude & Longitude reference. So it just gives me something I can mess around peole's heads with.
Now I've probably stated this in the past but if not it is no big deal. I've got 3 brother's and we all have a large and overlapping sphere of friends and aquaintences.
Still I'll come across folks I know and they'll say either I saw your brother or to say hi to my brother for them and invariably I respond back "Which one?". In the NY, CT and PA region I hit across all three states having had worked and or lived in them at various times. My oldest brother lives in PA and my two younger brothers live here in NY. But we've got numerous contacts in CT & PA. So if anyone says to me say hi to my brother please reference the one you're intending or I my give regards to the wrong one again & again....
Then there is the Annual Irish Feis at Athony Wayne Recreation Area, Its a fun time and there are numerous bands & bagpipes performing along with the step dancers.
When you get tired of the Pipes & Drums I do suggest that you watch the step dancers, They can be very entertaining. As for getting there I go by motorcycle. I'm required to by law. Yes it is a legal neccessity that I travel by motorbike to the Feis. You might consider that strange, and it may well be. However I don't need to get a ticket from the NY State Park Police for operating a Commercial Vehicle on the Parkway without a permit. And my van is registered as a that. Still the feis was warm and sunny but I took it in stride sporting an umbrella as a sunshade while watching the events while others baked in the broiling sun.
Ah in regards to my brothers. One is now out of work and laid up after undergoing surgery to repair his right shoulder. Man that was on impressive bruise the Doctors imparted on him. He was employed by a Telephone company and while out to do some work on the right of way he found himself dropping inot an improperly marked hole in the ground. So he's got torn connective tissue the doctors had to find both in his arm and chest to attach to pins now set in his shoulder. Now as he's still healing up from the surgery I'll be at his place about once a week on average to assist with a few chores; Torching and monitoring brush piles as they burn; Weed wacking around the yard or pressurewashing the house....Simple things really but difficult enough if your arm is laid up.
As for physical activities, I'm still intending to train up for and complete a third marathon. This is absolutely my final one. The knees aren't what they used to be and I'm going to Physical Therapy twice a week for the same issue as last time I went.
So with kneebraces in place I do get out and run. Admittedly much slower than in previous years. Still I find myself needing to maintain a moderae level of physical activity and to that end I've brought a new water toy. The good news is its not a boat; sail, power or row. Its not a canoe, I've got one and access to two more. Its a Stand Up Paddleboard or a SUP for short. You don't need a great sense of balance to use one but a measure of balance is handy as well as good knees or in my case good knee braces/supports. Think of a 10&1/2 to 12 foot long surfboard as might be found in the old Gidget movies and rather than kneeling upon it or laying on your belly and paddling with your hands to move along; You use a long paddle similar to a canoe paddle to propel yourself through the waters. The longest distance I've covered is roughly 2&1/2 miles and its a fair upper body work out. Not high im-act but assuredly aerobic.
Say did I mention Bagpipes? Well this summer I've been practicing and playing with the Stephen Driscoll Memorial Pipe Band . Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 704. Its been fun educational and interesting. As for bagpiping Next weekend there are two events I'll be involved with. The Volunteer Firemans' Parade down by Sing Sing Prison and Pipefest on the Intrepid Museum in NYC on August 7th. The organizers are looking to set a Guinness Record as well; So I'll be down there with members of the band.
Sporting events I'm not participating in as a contestant; Lake Placid NY, The Ironman competition. 2.4 miles of swimming, 112 miles of bicycling and 26.2 miles of running. Yeah and I'm nuts for doing a simple standalong marathon. But I was there this year assisting with the volunteer security. I now remember that the general public is ignorant and should be given direction reinforced with the swinging of a riot batton. But all in all it was an interesting experience there and I'm not too certain about doing that again. But aside from the drive up, meals and beer my cost was minimal and sleeping accomodations very adequate. Just a few steps above primitive but not terribly so. for if I choose I had full access to internet connections and a host of electronic services.
Finally since I'm not writing a newer version of War & Peace. as stated earlier I'm preparing for a 3rd and final marathon. The Marine Corps Marathon again in Washington DC and this year it is being held on Halloween Day! YEA! So as for training I am about 1/2 to my training goal with three months left to the event and today's long run was 20 kilometers. That is 12.42 miles for the metricly challenged. While my pace is off from last year, gee I wonder why, I'm certain I can successfully complete this.
So that pretty much covers in words what's been going on in my immediate world and By Thanksgiving if not earlier for reasons beyond my control I'll be in MS visitng with the parents and probably pressure washing their home too.
So for now have a very safe summer everyone stay hydrated and keep good spirits about yourself; It'll make the unhappy people wonder what you are up to.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Summer Time and the living is easily hot & humid. (Rants followed by Raves)
Well its Bastille Day. May I suggest the guillotining of politicians in honor of the day? No, seriously the entire NY State legislature for failing to serve the people of the state of New York by not having a state budget prepared and still wanting full pay for sitting on their arses. If the incompetents were contractors they would be required to pay hefty fines and penalties at this point. Since NY State Governance seems headless prehaps it is the way to respond.
Now with that set aside. Lets progress to the more important things of life.
Talking of fun things and being disparaging of stupid people.
For followers of anything Irish there is the Rockland County Feis at the Anthony Wayne Rec Area this Sunday the 18th. It is usually a fun experience and if I go I'll be riding the H-D there as my other vehicle is registered as a Commercial vehicle and not allowed on Parkways in NY without a special permit. Hey Governor Paterson heres an idea. Return pickup trucks and those ubiquious gas sucking SUVs to Commercial Vehicle status and tax em the same. That'll help improve fuel economy as morons scramble for more fuel efficent vehicles to drive.
Hey has anyone noticed that Geese don't pay attention to road ettiquette and hinder traffic especially during the rush hour? Also NY has a large year round population of environment fouling water fowl. Since the food pantries have been suffering with the economic down turn perhaps its time to help out by culling the Goose population. Then we get a multiple plus equation. Less Goose dropping on recreational areas to create health hazards, Cleaner pedestrian and bicycle paths, reduced traffic delays due to obstructionist geese, and a protien source that can be harvested readily for the poor & destitute or even state inmates. Not to mention cleaner lakes and ponds.
Rush Limbaugh, Ah theres a scion of morality and sensibility. Did you know he's sold his NYC Penthouse so that he can leave NY and it's High Taxes. Rush please don't come back; While I've found some ideas reasonable and your show vaguely entertaining you've lost relevance to this middleclass retiree. Your mesage has been lost in the Bombast of your over bloated self.
Speaking of Bloated, Thank you Mr. President for creating more overlapping layers of Federal Government. The Flow Chart makes the old Stalinist Government of the Union of Soviet Socialistic Republics understandable in comparison. I just hope all those appointtees are in a viable 401K plan and not a federal retirement 407K plan.
Yeah I'm ranting a bit but hey its a source of outlet on my frustrations.
So with the rants done.
BAGPIPES!
Yeah I've been playing with them still and also have been hangingout with Pipers of all ilks. The Fraternal Order of Police lodge 704; The Plumbers and Steam Fitters Union Local 21 Pipes and Drums; occasionally a few folks from the Cold Spring Fire Department Pies & Drums; and a few from the Yorktown Irish.
The Plumbers and Steamfitters Hosted a most excellent picnic last month and a fun time was had by all. A few pipers even became enamored of my small pipes and will be chasing down a set for them selves.
Last week during a Parade in Westchester County the Plumbers assisted the FOP with a Piper and Drummer, and in return I had gone up to Dutchess County to lend my pipes to thier presence at a Parade in Wappingers for a fund raiser for Juvenile Diabetes research also co-hosted by radio station WPDH. Good day and a Good Cause at the Picnic in the Park.
As for tonight, I guess I really should return the FOP's Base Drum. I've held it for the past week since the parade.
And of course the Rockland Irish Feis as mentioned earlier. Its usually a fun and entertaining day. If you go; get there early, wear sunscreen, carry an umbrella and check out the Step Dancers and Piper competitions.Why sun screen & an umbrella? Its usually sunny and hot, depending upon where and when you watch the competitons the umbrella can add a bit of greatly needed relief from the broiling sun. Or should a shower roll through as can happen in the summer protection from the rain as well.
No Pictures to add currently but maybe in about 2 weeks as I'll be headed north to help out with a Large Sporting event in Upstate NY.
So as a final bit with the current high humidity levels and heat. Stay safe and hydrated everyone. Heat Injuries are real.
Cheers!
Now with that set aside. Lets progress to the more important things of life.
Talking of fun things and being disparaging of stupid people.
For followers of anything Irish there is the Rockland County Feis at the Anthony Wayne Rec Area this Sunday the 18th. It is usually a fun experience and if I go I'll be riding the H-D there as my other vehicle is registered as a Commercial vehicle and not allowed on Parkways in NY without a special permit. Hey Governor Paterson heres an idea. Return pickup trucks and those ubiquious gas sucking SUVs to Commercial Vehicle status and tax em the same. That'll help improve fuel economy as morons scramble for more fuel efficent vehicles to drive.
Hey has anyone noticed that Geese don't pay attention to road ettiquette and hinder traffic especially during the rush hour? Also NY has a large year round population of environment fouling water fowl. Since the food pantries have been suffering with the economic down turn perhaps its time to help out by culling the Goose population. Then we get a multiple plus equation. Less Goose dropping on recreational areas to create health hazards, Cleaner pedestrian and bicycle paths, reduced traffic delays due to obstructionist geese, and a protien source that can be harvested readily for the poor & destitute or even state inmates. Not to mention cleaner lakes and ponds.
Rush Limbaugh, Ah theres a scion of morality and sensibility. Did you know he's sold his NYC Penthouse so that he can leave NY and it's High Taxes. Rush please don't come back; While I've found some ideas reasonable and your show vaguely entertaining you've lost relevance to this middleclass retiree. Your mesage has been lost in the Bombast of your over bloated self.
Speaking of Bloated, Thank you Mr. President for creating more overlapping layers of Federal Government. The Flow Chart makes the old Stalinist Government of the Union of Soviet Socialistic Republics understandable in comparison. I just hope all those appointtees are in a viable 401K plan and not a federal retirement 407K plan.
Yeah I'm ranting a bit but hey its a source of outlet on my frustrations.
So with the rants done.
BAGPIPES!
Yeah I've been playing with them still and also have been hangingout with Pipers of all ilks. The Fraternal Order of Police lodge 704; The Plumbers and Steam Fitters Union Local 21 Pipes and Drums; occasionally a few folks from the Cold Spring Fire Department Pies & Drums; and a few from the Yorktown Irish.
The Plumbers and Steamfitters Hosted a most excellent picnic last month and a fun time was had by all. A few pipers even became enamored of my small pipes and will be chasing down a set for them selves.
Last week during a Parade in Westchester County the Plumbers assisted the FOP with a Piper and Drummer, and in return I had gone up to Dutchess County to lend my pipes to thier presence at a Parade in Wappingers for a fund raiser for Juvenile Diabetes research also co-hosted by radio station WPDH. Good day and a Good Cause at the Picnic in the Park.
As for tonight, I guess I really should return the FOP's Base Drum. I've held it for the past week since the parade.
And of course the Rockland Irish Feis as mentioned earlier. Its usually a fun and entertaining day. If you go; get there early, wear sunscreen, carry an umbrella and check out the Step Dancers and Piper competitions.Why sun screen & an umbrella? Its usually sunny and hot, depending upon where and when you watch the competitons the umbrella can add a bit of greatly needed relief from the broiling sun. Or should a shower roll through as can happen in the summer protection from the rain as well.
No Pictures to add currently but maybe in about 2 weeks as I'll be headed north to help out with a Large Sporting event in Upstate NY.
So as a final bit with the current high humidity levels and heat. Stay safe and hydrated everyone. Heat Injuries are real.
Cheers!
Monday, June 28, 2010
Summer & a continuation of the taling of the tale.
In the words of a famous English Bard of Irish roots; "Far have I traveled and much have I seen". And this is as true for myself as its been for Paul McCartney.
Spent the later part of winter in Mississippi and had some fun screwing around down there. Running through the NWR and National Parks as well as in and around Biloxi and Ocean Springs. For St. Paddy's day I showed up to a 5K race with Bagpipes and played both before and after the run. Ofcourse the pipes were louder than the cheap PA system used by the running club and I was asked not to play during the Awards for the various age group winners. Meh. Towards the end of March I bid adieu to the friggin insect infested region of the Gulf Coast and started my annual migration north. Stopping over in Northern Virginia to see 3 of my 5 cousins from my mom's sister's family. I took the time to get photos for later printing and forwarding to my Mom & Aunt. The one Cousin had a serious bout with cancer and as of this writing has passed on.
Then In April I made it back up to NY State. Its mind boggling how the weather and seasons were seen to change as I migrated northward. On the interstate in North Carolina, Virginia and later on U.S. 15 heading north through Gettysburgh PA and up towards Harrisburg the weather was pleasant but the pollen was thick and heavy. So dense the air looked to be brown and practically every vehicle had a yellow cast on them due to the thickness of the pollen.
As for NY state well it has been the home stomping grounds off & on for roughly 40 years not counting some time as an accidental tourist on the military plan. Still in a way its good to be back. Of course NY politics being what it is its also a side show which could make Illinois and Louisiana politics look like sister rings in a 3 ring circus. Governor Patterson will never ever see anything coming, thats not to say he'll be blindsided. Oh he will be for certain only he's legally blind too.
Well as stated in April I made it back to NY and promptly prepared to run a 1/2 marathon in Danbury CT. So the photo from that event may eventually get posted here but to be kind I sort of look like a Yeti with a partially shaved body and sun glasses running. Pictures where posted on runners World forums.
I've signed up for my third yeah I said I would stop after the second Marine Corps Marathon. But as this one falls on Halloween Day I felt it appropriate to try.
Still progress in marathon training will be slow this year. The knees are complaining, The VA (Veterans Administration) Docs have scheduled me for a fitting with orthotics and prosthetics and that doesn't happen untill July. Newer stronger better knee braces and now orthotics for flat feet. Flat feet when did that happen?
Also have been bouncing between the three brothers. Simple things like Motorcycle club Bar-B-Ques/Fund raisers, tree clearing, taking the nephews to appointments, sports practices or hiking. And when did I become Uncle Nanny? The Au Pair, Baby sitter? Well its sort of funny in a way and its an OK arrangement. I have a place to crash for a little bit of effort and some parential responsibilities have been lifted from the one brother with the Autistic kid.
As for the Autistic one He participated in the Special Olympics this year and did very well even medaling in one event. I trying to be humorous asked if we could treat the special Olymics like a horse race and place bets on the kids. For some reason the humor flopped. maybe I spent too much time in the sun that day.
I've also reconected with the Stephen P Driscoll Memorial Pipe Band, Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 704 and have been out with them practicing and performing at a few parades. In addition to that I am also assisting the Pipe Major in instructing several new and potentially excellent pipers plus a challenger to my patience. Still its good to work with the kids and one is actually good enough that I have him working with a kid older than himself. He'll be better than myself by a strong degree if he keeps with the pipes and I can see him exceeding the Pipe major as well.
Then these past two weekends have been fun. 'Cue the Teddy Bears' Picnic Music and alter the words to make it the Pipers' Picnic. Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 21 Pipe Band hosted a Picnic at a local state park and we converged onto a new annual event. Even the through hikers on the Appalachian trail may of been gobsmacked by the sight & sounds. I introduce a couple of pipers to my parlor pipes and that small set of pipes disappeard for a couple of hours. I wasn't worried about recovering them as the guys were have a blast playing them. They are effortless to play incomparison to the Great Highland Bagpipes.
Also made it a point to have a social visit with possibly the best piping instructor I've had the pleasure to ever meet and study under. 90 years old and going strong even with the addition of a pace maker. God Bless you Joe Brady Sr.
And this past weekend piping at a political fundraiser for the GOP candidate for Congress, I don't mind piping but I must be fed. Now I'm not too political and I fully realize that its the office minions of the politicians who perform the real work. I told Congressman John Hall as much but in a different way a few years back.
But as for the nature of the poltics and the office holders. If I'm being provided a meal and can play alongside the guys I like, I don't care if I'm playing for the Democracts, Libertarians, Socialists or Chinese Communists; I'll draw the line at North Koreans though. Hey as low as they are, and they are pretty low, I have my standards. But we had fun playing on the Group W Bench regardless.
So while this update isn't as concise, neat and pretty as it could be and the update is rather late. I should and will say Thank You to C M Moore for reminding me of it.
Have a safe summer everyone stay hydrated and remember I am a trained (Redneck) professional, Please don't try to recreate any of my stunts the injuries hurt and the hospital bills add up.
Cheers.
Spent the later part of winter in Mississippi and had some fun screwing around down there. Running through the NWR and National Parks as well as in and around Biloxi and Ocean Springs. For St. Paddy's day I showed up to a 5K race with Bagpipes and played both before and after the run. Ofcourse the pipes were louder than the cheap PA system used by the running club and I was asked not to play during the Awards for the various age group winners. Meh. Towards the end of March I bid adieu to the friggin insect infested region of the Gulf Coast and started my annual migration north. Stopping over in Northern Virginia to see 3 of my 5 cousins from my mom's sister's family. I took the time to get photos for later printing and forwarding to my Mom & Aunt. The one Cousin had a serious bout with cancer and as of this writing has passed on.
Then In April I made it back up to NY State. Its mind boggling how the weather and seasons were seen to change as I migrated northward. On the interstate in North Carolina, Virginia and later on U.S. 15 heading north through Gettysburgh PA and up towards Harrisburg the weather was pleasant but the pollen was thick and heavy. So dense the air looked to be brown and practically every vehicle had a yellow cast on them due to the thickness of the pollen.
As for NY state well it has been the home stomping grounds off & on for roughly 40 years not counting some time as an accidental tourist on the military plan. Still in a way its good to be back. Of course NY politics being what it is its also a side show which could make Illinois and Louisiana politics look like sister rings in a 3 ring circus. Governor Patterson will never ever see anything coming, thats not to say he'll be blindsided. Oh he will be for certain only he's legally blind too.
Well as stated in April I made it back to NY and promptly prepared to run a 1/2 marathon in Danbury CT. So the photo from that event may eventually get posted here but to be kind I sort of look like a Yeti with a partially shaved body and sun glasses running. Pictures where posted on runners World forums.
I've signed up for my third yeah I said I would stop after the second Marine Corps Marathon. But as this one falls on Halloween Day I felt it appropriate to try.
Still progress in marathon training will be slow this year. The knees are complaining, The VA (Veterans Administration) Docs have scheduled me for a fitting with orthotics and prosthetics and that doesn't happen untill July. Newer stronger better knee braces and now orthotics for flat feet. Flat feet when did that happen?
Also have been bouncing between the three brothers. Simple things like Motorcycle club Bar-B-Ques/Fund raisers, tree clearing, taking the nephews to appointments, sports practices or hiking. And when did I become Uncle Nanny? The Au Pair, Baby sitter? Well its sort of funny in a way and its an OK arrangement. I have a place to crash for a little bit of effort and some parential responsibilities have been lifted from the one brother with the Autistic kid.
As for the Autistic one He participated in the Special Olympics this year and did very well even medaling in one event. I trying to be humorous asked if we could treat the special Olymics like a horse race and place bets on the kids. For some reason the humor flopped. maybe I spent too much time in the sun that day.
I've also reconected with the Stephen P Driscoll Memorial Pipe Band, Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 704 and have been out with them practicing and performing at a few parades. In addition to that I am also assisting the Pipe Major in instructing several new and potentially excellent pipers plus a challenger to my patience. Still its good to work with the kids and one is actually good enough that I have him working with a kid older than himself. He'll be better than myself by a strong degree if he keeps with the pipes and I can see him exceeding the Pipe major as well.
Then these past two weekends have been fun. 'Cue the Teddy Bears' Picnic Music and alter the words to make it the Pipers' Picnic. Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 21 Pipe Band hosted a Picnic at a local state park and we converged onto a new annual event. Even the through hikers on the Appalachian trail may of been gobsmacked by the sight & sounds. I introduce a couple of pipers to my parlor pipes and that small set of pipes disappeard for a couple of hours. I wasn't worried about recovering them as the guys were have a blast playing them. They are effortless to play incomparison to the Great Highland Bagpipes.
Also made it a point to have a social visit with possibly the best piping instructor I've had the pleasure to ever meet and study under. 90 years old and going strong even with the addition of a pace maker. God Bless you Joe Brady Sr.
And this past weekend piping at a political fundraiser for the GOP candidate for Congress, I don't mind piping but I must be fed. Now I'm not too political and I fully realize that its the office minions of the politicians who perform the real work. I told Congressman John Hall as much but in a different way a few years back.
But as for the nature of the poltics and the office holders. If I'm being provided a meal and can play alongside the guys I like, I don't care if I'm playing for the Democracts, Libertarians, Socialists or Chinese Communists; I'll draw the line at North Koreans though. Hey as low as they are, and they are pretty low, I have my standards. But we had fun playing on the Group W Bench regardless.
So while this update isn't as concise, neat and pretty as it could be and the update is rather late. I should and will say Thank You to C M Moore for reminding me of it.
Have a safe summer everyone stay hydrated and remember I am a trained (Redneck) professional, Please don't try to recreate any of my stunts the injuries hurt and the hospital bills add up.
Cheers.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Best laid plans & all that.
Well as of today I've yet to get anywhere near Key West, However that should change on Friday morning. So far the winter here in West Central Florida has been less than nice being the coldest recorded since 1962. Several nights over the past few weeks have dropped into the upper 20's and even tonight it is supposed to drop into the lower 30's upper 20's yet again.
As for the Key West run, its finally a go. No I haven't purchsed a camper trailer but I do have a tenament on wheels so to speak. Picture a Conestoga Wagon crossed with a simple utility trailer and more modern materials and fabrics. I've modified my 6 x 10 utility trailer once again; Yes its Franken-Trailer, and now have a fabric top which stretches over metal bows allowing me about 6'4" of interior head room. Within in this I can set up and configure as I choose a cot with air matress, folding table, folding chair, ice chest and other bits of somfortable roughing it. It is even equipted with a small electric generator, lights, heat (if and when needed), and entertainment as well as internet access. Technology is a wonderful thing.
Photos will be posted after I make it down to the camp grounds and set the trailer up.
Physical inactivity has not been on the list of things I've choosen to do and so far this year, 2010, I've run in three; Five Kilometer races and one Half Marathon. I am considering another Half Marathon for towards the end of this month. In addition to running (alot), I've also tried Stand Up Paddle Boarding. Think of that as a relaxed form of surfing which doesn't require a ocean or waves but can be done anywhere there is water. Its a fun activity, but you need to try it for yourself. The day I tried it a wet suit was a very nice thing to have; Air temperature in the Lower 50's and water not much warmer.
As I write this the Mid-Atlantic from CT to VA is being hammered by snow. I'm thankful not to have to shovel and move it this year and I trust that my friends aren't too adversely affected by it. Still I'm sure the roof rake I gave my younger brother a few years back is getting a strong work out. That and I'm glad I've helped my brothers clean their chimneys and lay in fire wood last summer & fall.
Well February will be done in a few weeks and March should see me back in Mississippi and April in NY.
Be safe & warm everyone.
Regards, Q
As for the Key West run, its finally a go. No I haven't purchsed a camper trailer but I do have a tenament on wheels so to speak. Picture a Conestoga Wagon crossed with a simple utility trailer and more modern materials and fabrics. I've modified my 6 x 10 utility trailer once again; Yes its Franken-Trailer, and now have a fabric top which stretches over metal bows allowing me about 6'4" of interior head room. Within in this I can set up and configure as I choose a cot with air matress, folding table, folding chair, ice chest and other bits of somfortable roughing it. It is even equipted with a small electric generator, lights, heat (if and when needed), and entertainment as well as internet access. Technology is a wonderful thing.
Photos will be posted after I make it down to the camp grounds and set the trailer up.
Physical inactivity has not been on the list of things I've choosen to do and so far this year, 2010, I've run in three; Five Kilometer races and one Half Marathon. I am considering another Half Marathon for towards the end of this month. In addition to running (alot), I've also tried Stand Up Paddle Boarding. Think of that as a relaxed form of surfing which doesn't require a ocean or waves but can be done anywhere there is water. Its a fun activity, but you need to try it for yourself. The day I tried it a wet suit was a very nice thing to have; Air temperature in the Lower 50's and water not much warmer.
As I write this the Mid-Atlantic from CT to VA is being hammered by snow. I'm thankful not to have to shovel and move it this year and I trust that my friends aren't too adversely affected by it. Still I'm sure the roof rake I gave my younger brother a few years back is getting a strong work out. That and I'm glad I've helped my brothers clean their chimneys and lay in fire wood last summer & fall.
Well February will be done in a few weeks and March should see me back in Mississippi and April in NY.
Be safe & warm everyone.
Regards, Q
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
A New Year (2010) and some new entries.
OK, maybe an update of the Blog is warranted as we are now just about 1/2 way into the first month of Two thousand and ten. Today as I run though my disjointed thoughs I'm sitting in the waiting room of an eye clinic near Tampa Florida waiting for my Cousin who is having cataract surgery performed today. Since I'm unencumbered by any responsibilites, I have no problem with driving him for the procedure.
So what have I been up to these past few months? Quite a bit and not too much at the same time.
October saw me go to Washington DC twice. The first time for the Army 10 Miler which I ran for grins ans giggles and as a warm up for the Marine Corps Marathon. The Army 10 miler served two purposes; One to give me a feel for the DC metro system (with sucks) and Two a practice run in a major event by getting my mind wrapped around having a relaxed easy start and enjoyable experience.
Also during the 10 miler I had a few folks going what the #*^@? Going by the White House I yelled out that Mr. Obama was gonna buy every one a beer and we could talk about differences of experiences in the Rose Garden after our run. An allusion to the Police/Professor/President summit last fall. Some folks did laugh.
Then there was the Marine Corps Marathon which I ran in for the second time. I seemed to be on track for about a five hour finish time and did finish nearly twn minutes better than my previous time. However, I did have an event which put me off my pace in stopping along with a couple of other runners to aid an older runner who fell maybe near the eight mile mark. I left the older runner with two ladies ran ahead found two Marines and advised them of the fallen runner about 2/10th mile behind me and continued on with the run.
November saw me depart NY state to Mississippi and visit my Parents for Thanksgiving. One idea was also to look at property in Southern MS but due to clashing of natures with my father I have since buried that idea. As much as i do care for the folks I can't deal with his mind set and attitudes. So I'll be falling back to an alternate plan and going the North South Bounce. By purchasing a Camper Trailer and going seasonally Nomadic. Also while in MS I had gone over to the Stennis Space Center and run in a Half Marathon; Normally there is not a finisher award for the 1/2 but this year due to a error there was and I ended up running in my fist (theirs also) ever Matathon. So much for proof reading and going low bid on awards for a marathon. Also in November I sold my motorcycle and sidecar setup, Ive had fun with it but it was time to start reducing my number of rolling toys and stock.
December became the run to Florida to my Aunt's home where I left a motorcycle to be used as a life boat when I would return to MS to bring my Parents over for the Christmas & New Years Holidays. Trust me having an alternate means of transportation so I wouldn't be trapped by octogenarians was critical to my small bit of remaining sanity.
So now I'm back in Florida and have plans to return to Key West for the later part of January and all of February. But for now I'm on stand by to assist my Aunt and Cousin with a few things through the course of this week. Who knows maybe when my youngest brother and his oldest son show up on Friday I'll be picking them up at the airport.
Cheers & safe new years all.
So what have I been up to these past few months? Quite a bit and not too much at the same time.
October saw me go to Washington DC twice. The first time for the Army 10 Miler which I ran for grins ans giggles and as a warm up for the Marine Corps Marathon. The Army 10 miler served two purposes; One to give me a feel for the DC metro system (with sucks) and Two a practice run in a major event by getting my mind wrapped around having a relaxed easy start and enjoyable experience.
Also during the 10 miler I had a few folks going what the #*^@? Going by the White House I yelled out that Mr. Obama was gonna buy every one a beer and we could talk about differences of experiences in the Rose Garden after our run. An allusion to the Police/Professor/President summit last fall. Some folks did laugh.
Then there was the Marine Corps Marathon which I ran in for the second time. I seemed to be on track for about a five hour finish time and did finish nearly twn minutes better than my previous time. However, I did have an event which put me off my pace in stopping along with a couple of other runners to aid an older runner who fell maybe near the eight mile mark. I left the older runner with two ladies ran ahead found two Marines and advised them of the fallen runner about 2/10th mile behind me and continued on with the run.
November saw me depart NY state to Mississippi and visit my Parents for Thanksgiving. One idea was also to look at property in Southern MS but due to clashing of natures with my father I have since buried that idea. As much as i do care for the folks I can't deal with his mind set and attitudes. So I'll be falling back to an alternate plan and going the North South Bounce. By purchasing a Camper Trailer and going seasonally Nomadic. Also while in MS I had gone over to the Stennis Space Center and run in a Half Marathon; Normally there is not a finisher award for the 1/2 but this year due to a error there was and I ended up running in my fist (theirs also) ever Matathon. So much for proof reading and going low bid on awards for a marathon. Also in November I sold my motorcycle and sidecar setup, Ive had fun with it but it was time to start reducing my number of rolling toys and stock.
December became the run to Florida to my Aunt's home where I left a motorcycle to be used as a life boat when I would return to MS to bring my Parents over for the Christmas & New Years Holidays. Trust me having an alternate means of transportation so I wouldn't be trapped by octogenarians was critical to my small bit of remaining sanity.
So now I'm back in Florida and have plans to return to Key West for the later part of January and all of February. But for now I'm on stand by to assist my Aunt and Cousin with a few things through the course of this week. Who knows maybe when my youngest brother and his oldest son show up on Friday I'll be picking them up at the airport.
Cheers & safe new years all.
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