This blog contains the random thoughts of a guy named Tommy. We'll share thoughts on writing, photography and anything else I want, because it's my blog and not yours.
“If you think you’re too small to have an impact, try going to bed with a mosquito in the room”.-- Anita Roddick
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Friday, December 24, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Our aging parents
For some time now, I’ve been watching and listening from-a-far as my mother has been aging. I guess about 3 years ago we first started noticing some memory problems. As time has passed, it has been getting worse and worse. I’m not going to bore you with the details of what is happening, I just wanted to put something here on the issue.
I returned yesterday from my mother’s home. Currently she still drives and lives in her own home, but I’m getting real concerned because if something were to happen I’m 4 hours away and just can’t be there if she needs me. This was the trip that I was not looking forward to at all. It started the conversation of her moving out of her home and into an assisted living facility. Also, the financial situation certainly was part of the talks. Her reaction was, as I expected it to be, “kicking and screaming”. She was saying stuff like, you’re trying to steal all of my money, you’re putting me in a home, etc, etc.. You get the picture.
I’ve talked about the situation to great extent with her friends, the family, her doctor and I know, intellectually, that I’m doing the right thing. I’m trying to keep her safe and to prevent any harm from coming to herself or anyone else. Of course, she doesn’t see it this way and that’s where the problem comes in. How do you remove the emotion from these decisions so that you just let the “kicking and screaming” slide off of you back and not be affected by it? How do you just put on a happy face while you’re changing someone’s life forever? How do you take away the one thing that she has in life, her independence?
I returned yesterday from my mother’s home. Currently she still drives and lives in her own home, but I’m getting real concerned because if something were to happen I’m 4 hours away and just can’t be there if she needs me. This was the trip that I was not looking forward to at all. It started the conversation of her moving out of her home and into an assisted living facility. Also, the financial situation certainly was part of the talks. Her reaction was, as I expected it to be, “kicking and screaming”. She was saying stuff like, you’re trying to steal all of my money, you’re putting me in a home, etc, etc.. You get the picture.
I’ve talked about the situation to great extent with her friends, the family, her doctor and I know, intellectually, that I’m doing the right thing. I’m trying to keep her safe and to prevent any harm from coming to herself or anyone else. Of course, she doesn’t see it this way and that’s where the problem comes in. How do you remove the emotion from these decisions so that you just let the “kicking and screaming” slide off of you back and not be affected by it? How do you just put on a happy face while you’re changing someone’s life forever? How do you take away the one thing that she has in life, her independence?
Friday, December 17, 2010
Christmas and Cars
I have a question for you all. At this time of the year (Christmas) the number of advertisements for cars increases unbelievably and one question always comes to mind. You see, I have NEVER known anyone nor have I ever heard of anyone buying a car because it's Christmas.
Do any of you know of anyone that has actually bought a car because of these car commercials during the holidays? Thanks, in advance.
Do any of you know of anyone that has actually bought a car because of these car commercials during the holidays? Thanks, in advance.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Birthdays
Ya know, people get all sorts of stuff for their Birthday, but when this box arrived even I was shocked.. I just feel so much better driving around town now.. :-)
Monday, December 13, 2010
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Crash pic's - only in Durban!!!!
Got this email today and thought you'd enjoy a laugh...:-)
"Pictures of accident on St Johns Bridge on Thursday.
The ambulance driver wouldn’t let the female paramedic out of the ambulance because she couldn’t stop laughing, he said it wasn’t professional.
The people in the blue car had the 25 litre bucket of paint on the back seat."
"Pictures of accident on St Johns Bridge on Thursday.
The ambulance driver wouldn’t let the female paramedic out of the ambulance because she couldn’t stop laughing, he said it wasn’t professional.
The people in the blue car had the 25 litre bucket of paint on the back seat."
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Because of Love
I received the following, in an email this morning from a friend. I appologize, as it's kind of long. But, I felt that I'd like to post it here after hearing Ray's good news. Also, for my friend and neighbor that has survived through 3 boughts with cancer. I don't know where this came from, but I put quotes around it because I didn't create it.
"Because of Love
A brother and sister had made their usual hurried, obligatory pre-Christmas visit to the little farm where dwelt their elderly parents with their small herd of horses. The farm was where they had grown up and had been named Lone Pine Farm because of the huge pine, which topped the hill behind the farm.
Through the years the tree had become a talisman to the old man and his wife, and a landmark in the countryside... The young siblings had fond memories of their childhood here, but the city hustle and bustle added more excitement to their lives, and called them away to a different life.
The old folks no longer showed their horses, for the years had taken their toll, and getting out to the barn on those frosty mornings was getting harder, but it gave them a reason to get up in the mornings and a reason to live. They sold a few foals each year, and the horses were their reason for joy in the morning and contentment at day's end.
Angry, as they prepared to leave, the young couple confronted the old folks. Why do you not at least dispose of The Old One." She is no longer of use to you. It's been years since you've had foals from her. You should cut corners and save so you can have more for yourselves. How can this old worn out horse bring you anything but expense and work? Why do you keep her anyway?"
The old man looked down at his worn boots, holes in the toes, scuffed at the barn floor and replied, "Yes, I could use a pair of new boots. His arm slid defensively about the Old One's neck as he drew her near with gentle caressing he rubbed her softly behind her ears. He replied softly, "We keep her because of love. Nothing else, just love."
Baffled and irritated, the young folks wished the old man and his wife a Merry Christmas and headed back toward the city as darkness stole through the valley. The old couple shook their heads in sorrow that it had not been a happy visit. A tear fell upon their cheeks.. How is it that these young folks do not understand the peace of the love that filled their hearts?
So it was, that because of the unhappy leave-taking, no one noticed the insulation smoldering on the frayed wires in the old barn. None saw the first spark fall. None but the "Old One".
In a matter of minutes, the whole barn was ablaze and the hungry flames were licking at the loft full of hay. With a cry of horror and despair, the old man shouted to his wife to call for help as he raced to the barn to save their beloved horses. But the flames were roaring now, and the blazing heat drove him back.
He sank sobbing to the ground, helpless before the fire's fury. His wife back from calling for help cradled him in her arms, clinging to each other, they wept at their loss.
By the time the fire department arrived, only smoking, glowing ruins were left, and the old man and his wife, exhausted from their grief, huddled together before the barn. They were speechless as they rose from the cold snow covered ground. They nodded thanks to the firemen as there was nothing anyone could do now.
The old man turned to his wife, resting her white head upon his shoulders as his shaking old hands clumsily dried her tears with a frayed red bandana. Brokenly he whispered, "We have lost much, but God has spared our home on this eve of Christmas.
Let us gather strength and climb the hill to the old pine where we have sought comfort in times of despair. We will look down upon our home and give thanks to God that it has been spared and pray for our beloved most precious gifts that have been taken from us.
And so, he took her by the hand and slowly helped her up the snowy hill as he brushed aside his own tears with the back of his old and withered hand.
The journey up the hill was hard for their old bodies in the steep snow. As they stepped over the little knoll at the crest of the hill, they paused to rest, looking up to the top of the hill the old couple gasped and fell to their knees in amazement at the incredible beauty before them.
Seemingly, every glorious, brilliant star in the heavens was caught up in the glittering, snow-frosted branches of their beloved pine, and it was aglow with heavenly candles. And poised on its top most bough, a crystal crescent moon glistened like spun glass. Never had a mere mortal created a Christmas tree such as this. They were breathless as the old man held his wife tighter in his arms.
Suddenly, the old man gave a cry of wonder and incredible joy. Amazed and mystified, he took his wife by the hand and pulled her forward. There, beneath the tree, in resplendent glory, a mist hovering over and glowing in the darkness was their Christmas gift. Shadows glistening in the night light Bedded down about the "Old One" close to the trunk of the tree, was the entire herd, safe.
At the first hint of smoke, she had pushed the door ajar with her muzzle and had led the horses through it. Slowly and with great dignity, never looking back, she had led them up the hill, stepping cautiously through the snow. The foals were frightened and dashed about. The skittish yearlings looked back at the crackling, hungry flames, and tucked their tails under them as they licked their lips and hopped like rabbits. The mares that were in foal with a new years crop of babies, pressed uneasily against the "Old One" as she moved calmly up the hill and to safety beneath the pine. And now, she lay among them and gazed at the faces of the old man and his wife. Those she loved she had not disappointed. Her body was brittle with years, tired from the climb, but the golden eyes were filled with devotion as she offered her gift---
Because of love.
Only Because of love...
Tears flowed as the old couple shouted their praise
and joy... and again the peace of love filled their hearts.
This is a true story.
Willy Eagle
This is an Inspirational message sent to a small group of people. My hope is that it will make your day just a little bit better.
A small request.
Cancer is a strange cell Going along for years in remission and then one day it pops it head up again.
Pray for the day there will be a permanent cure. A SMALL REQUEST... 93% won't forward, but I'm Sure You Will...
A small request... Just one line...
Dear God, I pray for the cure of cancer. In Jesus Name,
Amen
All you are asked to do is keep this circulating even if it's only to one more person. In memory of anyone you know who has been struck down by cancer or is still living with it."
"Because of Love
A brother and sister had made their usual hurried, obligatory pre-Christmas visit to the little farm where dwelt their elderly parents with their small herd of horses. The farm was where they had grown up and had been named Lone Pine Farm because of the huge pine, which topped the hill behind the farm.
Through the years the tree had become a talisman to the old man and his wife, and a landmark in the countryside... The young siblings had fond memories of their childhood here, but the city hustle and bustle added more excitement to their lives, and called them away to a different life.
The old folks no longer showed their horses, for the years had taken their toll, and getting out to the barn on those frosty mornings was getting harder, but it gave them a reason to get up in the mornings and a reason to live. They sold a few foals each year, and the horses were their reason for joy in the morning and contentment at day's end.
Angry, as they prepared to leave, the young couple confronted the old folks. Why do you not at least dispose of The Old One." She is no longer of use to you. It's been years since you've had foals from her. You should cut corners and save so you can have more for yourselves. How can this old worn out horse bring you anything but expense and work? Why do you keep her anyway?"
The old man looked down at his worn boots, holes in the toes, scuffed at the barn floor and replied, "Yes, I could use a pair of new boots. His arm slid defensively about the Old One's neck as he drew her near with gentle caressing he rubbed her softly behind her ears. He replied softly, "We keep her because of love. Nothing else, just love."
Baffled and irritated, the young folks wished the old man and his wife a Merry Christmas and headed back toward the city as darkness stole through the valley. The old couple shook their heads in sorrow that it had not been a happy visit. A tear fell upon their cheeks.. How is it that these young folks do not understand the peace of the love that filled their hearts?
So it was, that because of the unhappy leave-taking, no one noticed the insulation smoldering on the frayed wires in the old barn. None saw the first spark fall. None but the "Old One".
In a matter of minutes, the whole barn was ablaze and the hungry flames were licking at the loft full of hay. With a cry of horror and despair, the old man shouted to his wife to call for help as he raced to the barn to save their beloved horses. But the flames were roaring now, and the blazing heat drove him back.
He sank sobbing to the ground, helpless before the fire's fury. His wife back from calling for help cradled him in her arms, clinging to each other, they wept at their loss.
By the time the fire department arrived, only smoking, glowing ruins were left, and the old man and his wife, exhausted from their grief, huddled together before the barn. They were speechless as they rose from the cold snow covered ground. They nodded thanks to the firemen as there was nothing anyone could do now.
The old man turned to his wife, resting her white head upon his shoulders as his shaking old hands clumsily dried her tears with a frayed red bandana. Brokenly he whispered, "We have lost much, but God has spared our home on this eve of Christmas.
Let us gather strength and climb the hill to the old pine where we have sought comfort in times of despair. We will look down upon our home and give thanks to God that it has been spared and pray for our beloved most precious gifts that have been taken from us.
And so, he took her by the hand and slowly helped her up the snowy hill as he brushed aside his own tears with the back of his old and withered hand.
The journey up the hill was hard for their old bodies in the steep snow. As they stepped over the little knoll at the crest of the hill, they paused to rest, looking up to the top of the hill the old couple gasped and fell to their knees in amazement at the incredible beauty before them.
Seemingly, every glorious, brilliant star in the heavens was caught up in the glittering, snow-frosted branches of their beloved pine, and it was aglow with heavenly candles. And poised on its top most bough, a crystal crescent moon glistened like spun glass. Never had a mere mortal created a Christmas tree such as this. They were breathless as the old man held his wife tighter in his arms.
Suddenly, the old man gave a cry of wonder and incredible joy. Amazed and mystified, he took his wife by the hand and pulled her forward. There, beneath the tree, in resplendent glory, a mist hovering over and glowing in the darkness was their Christmas gift. Shadows glistening in the night light Bedded down about the "Old One" close to the trunk of the tree, was the entire herd, safe.
At the first hint of smoke, she had pushed the door ajar with her muzzle and had led the horses through it. Slowly and with great dignity, never looking back, she had led them up the hill, stepping cautiously through the snow. The foals were frightened and dashed about. The skittish yearlings looked back at the crackling, hungry flames, and tucked their tails under them as they licked their lips and hopped like rabbits. The mares that were in foal with a new years crop of babies, pressed uneasily against the "Old One" as she moved calmly up the hill and to safety beneath the pine. And now, she lay among them and gazed at the faces of the old man and his wife. Those she loved she had not disappointed. Her body was brittle with years, tired from the climb, but the golden eyes were filled with devotion as she offered her gift---
Because of love.
Only Because of love...
Tears flowed as the old couple shouted their praise
and joy... and again the peace of love filled their hearts.
This is a true story.
Willy Eagle
This is an Inspirational message sent to a small group of people. My hope is that it will make your day just a little bit better.
A small request.
Cancer is a strange cell Going along for years in remission and then one day it pops it head up again.
Pray for the day there will be a permanent cure. A SMALL REQUEST... 93% won't forward, but I'm Sure You Will...
A small request... Just one line...
Dear God, I pray for the cure of cancer. In Jesus Name,
Amen
All you are asked to do is keep this circulating even if it's only to one more person. In memory of anyone you know who has been struck down by cancer or is still living with it."
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
A Parrot Story
I got this from 2 people (including Uncle Ron) today, so I'm taking it as a message that I should share it with you all.
A young man named John received a parrot as a gift. The parrot had a bad attitude and an even worse vocabulary. Every word out of the bird's mouth was rude, obnoxious, and laced with profanity. John tried and tried to change the bird's attitude by consistently saying only polite words, playing soft music, reading poetry - anything he could think of to 'clean up' the bird's vocabulary.
Finally, John was fed up and he yelled at the parrot. The parrot yelled back. John shook the parrot and the parrot got angrier and even more rude. In total desperation, John grabbed the bird and put him in the freezer. For a few minutes the parrot squawked and kicked and screamed. Then suddenly there was total quiet. Not a peep was heard.
Fearing that he really had hurt the parrot, John quickly opened the door to the freezer. The parrot calmly stepped out onto John's outstretched hand and said, "I believe I may have offended you with my rude language and actions. I'm sincerely remorseful for my inappropriate transgressions and I fully intend to do everything I can to correct my obnoxious behavior."
John was stunned at the change in the bird's attitude. He was about to ask the parrot what had caused this dramatic change when the bird spoke up and asked very softly, "May I ask what the turkey did?"
Happy Thanksgiving, everybody.
A young man named John received a parrot as a gift. The parrot had a bad attitude and an even worse vocabulary. Every word out of the bird's mouth was rude, obnoxious, and laced with profanity. John tried and tried to change the bird's attitude by consistently saying only polite words, playing soft music, reading poetry - anything he could think of to 'clean up' the bird's vocabulary.
Finally, John was fed up and he yelled at the parrot. The parrot yelled back. John shook the parrot and the parrot got angrier and even more rude. In total desperation, John grabbed the bird and put him in the freezer. For a few minutes the parrot squawked and kicked and screamed. Then suddenly there was total quiet. Not a peep was heard.
Fearing that he really had hurt the parrot, John quickly opened the door to the freezer. The parrot calmly stepped out onto John's outstretched hand and said, "I believe I may have offended you with my rude language and actions. I'm sincerely remorseful for my inappropriate transgressions and I fully intend to do everything I can to correct my obnoxious behavior."
John was stunned at the change in the bird's attitude. He was about to ask the parrot what had caused this dramatic change when the bird spoke up and asked very softly, "May I ask what the turkey did?"
Happy Thanksgiving, everybody.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
A random act of culture
Thanks to Uncle Ron, I just watched a wonderful video, which I've put here for your to enjoy. The following is quoted from the creativeminorityreport.com web site.
"Just this past weekend, shoppers at the the Macy's in Philadelphia (the old Wanamaker building) were surprised when over 600 choristers who were there mingling with regular shoppers suddenly burst into Handel's Hallelujah Chorus. It's pretty awesome.
The Opera Company of Philadelphia was instrumental in bringing it together to perform one of the Knight Foundation's "1000 Random Acts of Culture" which they'll be doing over the next three years across the country. Accompanied by the Wanamaker Organ - the world's largest pipe organ - the singers burst into song at exactly noon."
"Just this past weekend, shoppers at the the Macy's in Philadelphia (the old Wanamaker building) were surprised when over 600 choristers who were there mingling with regular shoppers suddenly burst into Handel's Hallelujah Chorus. It's pretty awesome.
The Opera Company of Philadelphia was instrumental in bringing it together to perform one of the Knight Foundation's "1000 Random Acts of Culture" which they'll be doing over the next three years across the country. Accompanied by the Wanamaker Organ - the world's largest pipe organ - the singers burst into song at exactly noon."
Friday, November 19, 2010
The incredible 360-degree panoramic photo of London
WOW, this is an article on an image of London in VERY high resolution (80 Gigapixels). It's an article from MailOnline
If you scroll down there is a link (See image at) to view the actual image. It's amazing.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Blue Bayou
Ray got me to thinking about Linda Ronstad this morning, so I decided to post this video of her singing Blue Bayou. Below it is another great singer, Roy Orbison, singing the same song. Oh the memories they bring back...
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Google Chrome tops 'Dirty Dozen' list
Now, here's an interesting article which addresses the vulnerability of various software packages. It shows that Google Chrome tops the Dirty Dozen list of vulnerable applications. Interesting indeed...
Thinking machines 1959 (an IBM 704)
Boy, we certainly have come a long way in computer technology. What will the future bring, who knows?
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Ivan Lovatt - Makes are in chicken wire
Now, this is a unique art form. One that I certainly had never heard of, but in it's own right, wonderful. You can check out an article on Mail Online to read about him and see more images. Below is Dame Edna Everage done in Chicken Wire.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Aspect Ratio - again (Updated)
So, I got my new video adapter yesterday and was playing with it a bit. At first glance, I got troubles.. First, when I installed it into my computer my network card stopped working (aka. no network or internet access) and second, when I set it for the correct resoution, the picture appeared to still have the wrong aspect ratio. I downloaded the latest software/driver for the card (112MB) and will give it another try today.
I sure hope that I can get this runnning ok.. :-(
Hurray, I finally got it. I was able to set the resolution to 1920x1080, which is the natural resolution for the monitor. The image displayed in Photoshop is now correct.
Image size in Photoshop
5.35 H
4.415 W
1.21=5.35/4.415
Measured image on the screen
7.375 H
6.125 W
1.2=7.375/6.125
1.21 to 1.2 is close enough for me. Actually it's most likely right on. I used a manual ruler to measure the image on the screen so I could be off. But, bottom line I'm happy again.. :-)
And thanks again Sean, you had the answer...
I sure hope that I can get this runnning ok.. :-(
Hurray, I finally got it. I was able to set the resolution to 1920x1080, which is the natural resolution for the monitor. The image displayed in Photoshop is now correct.
Image size in Photoshop
5.35 H
4.415 W
1.21=5.35/4.415
Measured image on the screen
7.375 H
6.125 W
1.2=7.375/6.125
1.21 to 1.2 is close enough for me. Actually it's most likely right on. I used a manual ruler to measure the image on the screen so I could be off. But, bottom line I'm happy again.. :-)
And thanks again Sean, you had the answer...
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
How movie sounds are made
This is neat!!
SoundWorks Collection: Gary Hecker, Veteran Foley Artist from Michael Coleman on Vimeo.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Our World Underwater 2010
I had never heard of this event before, but there are some breathtaking underwater pictures (still and video) here. Below is an image from the
World Underwater web site.
And here is a wonderful video, it won the Gold on Conservation. It was done by Zsolt Sasdi and is called "Survivors" and is best viewed in fullscreen..
World Underwater web site.
And here is a wonderful video, it won the Gold on Conservation. It was done by Zsolt Sasdi and is called "Survivors" and is best viewed in fullscreen..
Our World Underwater - 1st Place Video: "Survivors" from DivePhotoGuide.com on Vimeo.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Halloween Light Show 2010 HD - Thriller ( Michael Jackson )
And then this all time favoriate....
Halloween Light Show 2010 HD - Monster Mash
Saturday, November 6, 2010
American Gothic - Sort of
So, in my previous post I said that I'd be posting my playground work with Photoshop. It took a little time to do this, but I certainly learned a bit about the program. I realize this isn't an expert job, but you got to start somewhere and I had fun doing it.
So, I'm sure that you've all heard of the famous painting American Gothic. If not, here it is..
I then took a picture of a friend, below..
Waved my magic wand and...
That's Terri on the left. We'll leave the individual on the right to be a secret..
And thanks again Terri for your permission to post.
So, I'm sure that you've all heard of the famous painting American Gothic. If not, here it is..
I then took a picture of a friend, below..
Waved my magic wand and...
That's Terri on the left. We'll leave the individual on the right to be a secret..
And thanks again Terri for your permission to post.
Display aspect ratio of images
I recently purchased a new monitor (an Asus) which is wide screen (16:9). It was my belief that while Windows stretched the desktop, etc, pictures were displayed in their correct aspect ratio (height vs. width). But, the other day I was working in Photoshop on an image and I discovered that what I thought was not true. FYI, I'm going to put the picture that I was working on in another post.
So here are some numbers I got using an old fashion ruler.
First, here is the image size in Photoshop
5.35" High
4.41" Wide
1.21=5.35/4.41 Aspect ratio
I printed the image on paper, using Photoshop
5.34" High
4.41" Wide
1.21=5.34/4.41 Aspect ratio
As expected, the image size in Photoshop and the printed version are the same.
Now the strange thing. I physically measured the image on the screen in Photoshop. Note that the actual physical size can vary, because it depends on how the size slider is currently set. But, I was interested in the ratio of height and width.
7.00" High
7.75" Wide
.90=7.00/7.75 Aspect ration
From this I can only conclude that the image is being stretched horizontally, which is NOT what you really want. I mean everyone will appear to be a little fatter than they really are. So my question is this; how do I control this so that when I have a square box, it doesn't show up as a rectangle? I can't find any setting in Windows to correct for this. Does anyone know how to do this?
So here are some numbers I got using an old fashion ruler.
First, here is the image size in Photoshop
5.35" High
4.41" Wide
1.21=5.35/4.41 Aspect ratio
I printed the image on paper, using Photoshop
5.34" High
4.41" Wide
1.21=5.34/4.41 Aspect ratio
As expected, the image size in Photoshop and the printed version are the same.
Now the strange thing. I physically measured the image on the screen in Photoshop. Note that the actual physical size can vary, because it depends on how the size slider is currently set. But, I was interested in the ratio of height and width.
7.00" High
7.75" Wide
.90=7.00/7.75 Aspect ration
From this I can only conclude that the image is being stretched horizontally, which is NOT what you really want. I mean everyone will appear to be a little fatter than they really are. So my question is this; how do I control this so that when I have a square box, it doesn't show up as a rectangle? I can't find any setting in Windows to correct for this. Does anyone know how to do this?
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Oh man - woman vs. man? - Again
So I think I should follow-up on a previous post. Things in the house hold have settled down to a dull mummer, but with a little understanding and smiles on our faces.
But, now the challenge; I need to figure out exactly what the situation with the refrigerator is. The question is, are you always sure that the light goes out when you close the door and how do you test to make sure that it does? After some investigation, I figured that I could rig some sort of wiring inside and have wires come out through the molding in the door. Then I could measure with a meter to see if in face the power to the lights is staying on or going off. I'm sure that you've heard of Rube Goldberg and this would be one of those. So I kept thinking.
What if I take a camera with a timer on it and put it inside the refrigerator, wait until the time runs out and then retrieve the camera. If there is a picture of the bottle of milk, the light was on. If it's a black image the light is off. So, now I go and get my fancy DSLR and check for a timer function. There is none. :-(. Not being deterred though, I go in pursuit of my wife's point and shoot, figuring that a more consumer oriented camera would certainly have this feature. Well, I figured wrong. :-( A friend last night told me that his camera has a timer and that I could borrow it.
So, I hop in the car this morning to go and get it. The car won't start! An unkind thought has just entered my mind... Speaking of timers, did I mention that we now have to set a timer for our dishwasher for 18 minutes? You see, that's when it’s supposed to dispense the soap. It doesn't! :-( We manually open the door and pour in the soap.
As a side note here: The refrigerator is a Kenmore (made by LG) and is a piece of crap! The dishwasher is Kenmore. Do you get a trend here?
Oh well, these times shall pass or so someone that didn't have all these problem with STUFF once said....
You have a nice day now.. :-)
But, now the challenge; I need to figure out exactly what the situation with the refrigerator is. The question is, are you always sure that the light goes out when you close the door and how do you test to make sure that it does? After some investigation, I figured that I could rig some sort of wiring inside and have wires come out through the molding in the door. Then I could measure with a meter to see if in face the power to the lights is staying on or going off. I'm sure that you've heard of Rube Goldberg and this would be one of those. So I kept thinking.
What if I take a camera with a timer on it and put it inside the refrigerator, wait until the time runs out and then retrieve the camera. If there is a picture of the bottle of milk, the light was on. If it's a black image the light is off. So, now I go and get my fancy DSLR and check for a timer function. There is none. :-(. Not being deterred though, I go in pursuit of my wife's point and shoot, figuring that a more consumer oriented camera would certainly have this feature. Well, I figured wrong. :-( A friend last night told me that his camera has a timer and that I could borrow it.
So, I hop in the car this morning to go and get it. The car won't start! An unkind thought has just entered my mind... Speaking of timers, did I mention that we now have to set a timer for our dishwasher for 18 minutes? You see, that's when it’s supposed to dispense the soap. It doesn't! :-( We manually open the door and pour in the soap.
As a side note here: The refrigerator is a Kenmore (made by LG) and is a piece of crap! The dishwasher is Kenmore. Do you get a trend here?
Oh well, these times shall pass or so someone that didn't have all these problem with STUFF once said....
You have a nice day now.. :-)
How to Hack Your Slow Cooker
Now, here's something that I ran across today while looking at some coffee and a store in S.C., based on something Uncle Ron had sent to me. I never would have drempt up such a thing, but it really looks like a good idea. As I said to Ron, Geeks of the world unite!!!
So here is how to Hack into a Slow Cooker.
So here is how to Hack into a Slow Cooker.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Time Travel - it all makes sense now...
It turns out that there's a scientific and logical explanation for why people (mostly men) spend so much time in the pub and only get home in the early hours of the morning. The reason for this odd behavior is based on Einstein's famous Theory of Relativity.
It works like this: it is a well known fact that the more you drink, the faster time goes and thus the faster you move. After about 10 beers (or 5 double brandies, etc), you're moving at close to the speed of light, and this is where Einstein enters the picture. According to his Relativity Theory, anybody moving at, or close to the speed of light, undergoes Time Dilation, i.e. time for you in the pub passes slower than for an observer outside the pub.
Complicated calculations have shown that the pub becomes a type of time machine: - for every half-hour spent inside the pub, the equivalent of two hours pass outside the pub. A typical situation is: "OK fellas, it's 8 o’clock; I'm going to surprise the family and get home early!!" However, the moment this person steps outside the pub, the time travel effect is negated by negative radiation from the environment, and he then thinks: "What??!!?? - why is it so quiet?? Bo11ocks!!! It's half past one!! WHAT HAPPENED???!!??" and the answer, of course, is Time Dilation!!
I've tried to explain this to outside observers, but so far nobody (except fellow time travellers) has been able or willing to understand the sound scientific basis of this phenomenon.
Please share this with all your known fellow time travellers - maybe we can prove this theory by sheer, overwhelming force of numbers.
It works like this: it is a well known fact that the more you drink, the faster time goes and thus the faster you move. After about 10 beers (or 5 double brandies, etc), you're moving at close to the speed of light, and this is where Einstein enters the picture. According to his Relativity Theory, anybody moving at, or close to the speed of light, undergoes Time Dilation, i.e. time for you in the pub passes slower than for an observer outside the pub.
Complicated calculations have shown that the pub becomes a type of time machine: - for every half-hour spent inside the pub, the equivalent of two hours pass outside the pub. A typical situation is: "OK fellas, it's 8 o’clock; I'm going to surprise the family and get home early!!" However, the moment this person steps outside the pub, the time travel effect is negated by negative radiation from the environment, and he then thinks: "What??!!?? - why is it so quiet?? Bo11ocks!!! It's half past one!! WHAT HAPPENED???!!??" and the answer, of course, is Time Dilation!!
I've tried to explain this to outside observers, but so far nobody (except fellow time travellers) has been able or willing to understand the sound scientific basis of this phenomenon.
Please share this with all your known fellow time travellers - maybe we can prove this theory by sheer, overwhelming force of numbers.
Can you create a car with a printer?
Well, I certainly think so...But, read this on The Urbee Hybrid: the First 3-D Printed Car.
As I once heard someone say, this is Kewl....
As I once heard someone say, this is Kewl....
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Oh man - woman vs. man?
I need some assistance. I know that that there is and probably will be forever, this male/female difference, no matter what some people might claim. There are physical and emotional differences.
OK, so given that I honestly believe that there are differences, I ask the females that are reading this to please jump in with an opinion.
First some background, I have not been feeling very well (cold/flue/fever/whatever) lately, a friend says that I have the punies (whatever that is). So I don’t feel well and whenever I don’t, I go into a complete different place. I get angry/emotional/depressed or anything else you want to describe, so I will readily admit to some fault here. To say the least, this past week has not been fun in our home. I scream, my wife screams…fortunately its Halloween time so screaming is normal, I guess :-(
Here we go: (God help me!) Act 1 scene 1:
I’m sitting on the couch and my wife announces to me that the lights are out in the refrigerator. I being the good husband get up and go to investigate. I find that the plastic surface of the control panel, to which the mounting screws hold onto, has melted, therefore the panel holding the lights and controls is now dangling in mid-air. Obviously something is wrong and I suspect this might be a manufacturing defect or something like that. But, just to make sure, I ask my wife ‘is there a possibility that the door might have been left ajar by mistake’. Now mind you, I tried to ask this question with no accusation as to blame, but simply a question of possibilities so that I would be able to continue my case against the manufacturer if in-fact this was a defect.
Somehow, this was a big mistake. I got this run right up one side and down the other. I think the bottom line was something like: how dare you accuse me of leaving the door open, after all the latches on the door are broken.
OK, act 1 scene 2:
Again, I’m sitting on the couch watching reruns of Sanford and Son, a great 70’s sitcom. So, the phone rings. I see displayed (callerID), that it’s my wife’s friend Sandy (actual name and identify withheld for security reasons) and I announce that she’s on the phone. Note - my wife is presently knitting an afghan for another good friend of ours and also she is physically has the TV remote in her hand.. After a few rings, it stops and a conversation (discussion!?!?) begins, based on the fact that she didn’t answer the phone because the TV was so loud and she couldn’t hear. OOPS, did I forget to mention that she had the TV remote in her hand.
So, you can well imagine that the rest of the evening is not going real well...So, again I ask for the females of the blog world to chime in and please explain what the heck I just did wrong.
OK, so given that I honestly believe that there are differences, I ask the females that are reading this to please jump in with an opinion.
First some background, I have not been feeling very well (cold/flue/fever/whatever) lately, a friend says that I have the punies (whatever that is). So I don’t feel well and whenever I don’t, I go into a complete different place. I get angry/emotional/depressed or anything else you want to describe, so I will readily admit to some fault here. To say the least, this past week has not been fun in our home. I scream, my wife screams…fortunately its Halloween time so screaming is normal, I guess :-(
Here we go: (God help me!) Act 1 scene 1:
I’m sitting on the couch and my wife announces to me that the lights are out in the refrigerator. I being the good husband get up and go to investigate. I find that the plastic surface of the control panel, to which the mounting screws hold onto, has melted, therefore the panel holding the lights and controls is now dangling in mid-air. Obviously something is wrong and I suspect this might be a manufacturing defect or something like that. But, just to make sure, I ask my wife ‘is there a possibility that the door might have been left ajar by mistake’. Now mind you, I tried to ask this question with no accusation as to blame, but simply a question of possibilities so that I would be able to continue my case against the manufacturer if in-fact this was a defect.
Somehow, this was a big mistake. I got this run right up one side and down the other. I think the bottom line was something like: how dare you accuse me of leaving the door open, after all the latches on the door are broken.
OK, act 1 scene 2:
Again, I’m sitting on the couch watching reruns of Sanford and Son, a great 70’s sitcom. So, the phone rings. I see displayed (callerID), that it’s my wife’s friend Sandy (actual name and identify withheld for security reasons) and I announce that she’s on the phone. Note - my wife is presently knitting an afghan for another good friend of ours and also she is physically has the TV remote in her hand.. After a few rings, it stops and a conversation (discussion!?!?) begins, based on the fact that she didn’t answer the phone because the TV was so loud and she couldn’t hear. OOPS, did I forget to mention that she had the TV remote in her hand.
So, you can well imagine that the rest of the evening is not going real well...So, again I ask for the females of the blog world to chime in and please explain what the heck I just did wrong.
Monday, November 1, 2010
I've had it up to my eyeballs!
For those that know me, they know that I am not a political person. The two things that you don't discuss in public are religion and politics. There are probably more in this list, but those come to mind. Anyway, I got an email from a good friend the other day that contained a link to this, what I'll call a crap video on YouTube. My response to my friend was not pleasant. But, I've been thinking about it for a few days and responded to him with the following. I'm just curious if there are any other people out there that feel the same as I do right now.
Well, I’m sure that got your attention. However, I should have included more information on my response and why I did it. So, here goes…
I have had it up to my eyeballs with negativity and your email hit me at exactly the right (or maybe wrong) time. I am so sick and tired of hearing what the other person (be that person a Catholic, Muslim, White, Black, Gay, Straight, Democrat, Republican, etc. and etc.) did wrong and is continuing to do wrong. On the Political front, I have heard exactly ONE political ad stating (and he spoke personally) what he stands for and what he is doing and is going to do. Unfortunately, he’s not in my county and therefore I can’t vote for him.
I have, again, hit a point that I’m going to stop watching the news and reading the newspaper. I don’t want to read about all the murders, robberies, etc. I want to read what the girl scouts are doing or the local not-for-profit organizations that provide support for those in need. I want to hear about talking walks in the park. I want to hear about love stories. I want to hear about the positive things that people are doing (and again be it a Catholic, Muslim, White, Black, Gay, Straight, Democrat, Republican, etc. and etc.).
So if my note upset you in any way, I apologize for that. If you have good stories, jokes, etc. please continue to send those. Those I will read or watch and greatly enjoy.
As a side, maybe I’ll put this on my blog and see if there are any other people that feel the same as I do.
Thanks for listening.
Well, I’m sure that got your attention. However, I should have included more information on my response and why I did it. So, here goes…
I have had it up to my eyeballs with negativity and your email hit me at exactly the right (or maybe wrong) time. I am so sick and tired of hearing what the other person (be that person a Catholic, Muslim, White, Black, Gay, Straight, Democrat, Republican, etc. and etc.) did wrong and is continuing to do wrong. On the Political front, I have heard exactly ONE political ad stating (and he spoke personally) what he stands for and what he is doing and is going to do. Unfortunately, he’s not in my county and therefore I can’t vote for him.
I have, again, hit a point that I’m going to stop watching the news and reading the newspaper. I don’t want to read about all the murders, robberies, etc. I want to read what the girl scouts are doing or the local not-for-profit organizations that provide support for those in need. I want to hear about talking walks in the park. I want to hear about love stories. I want to hear about the positive things that people are doing (and again be it a Catholic, Muslim, White, Black, Gay, Straight, Democrat, Republican, etc. and etc.).
So if my note upset you in any way, I apologize for that. If you have good stories, jokes, etc. please continue to send those. Those I will read or watch and greatly enjoy.
As a side, maybe I’ll put this on my blog and see if there are any other people that feel the same as I do.
Thanks for listening.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Now this is carving - Happy Halloween
I watched a segment on CBS Good Morning America this morning on carving pumpkins. I believe that this is the gentleman that did it. The quoted text below is what I received later in the day in an email message with the below images. There are more, but I think you'll get the picture, this guy is talented!!!
"Artist Ray Villafane began carving pumpkins on a lark for his art students in a small rural school district in Michigan . The hobby changed his life as he gained a viral following online and unlocked his genuine love of sculpting. Here are images of pumpkin carvings Villafane created over the past five years."
Biting his tongue
Brainiac
David Letterman
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
Got my eye on you
Motorized Medusa
Would you open this zipper
"Artist Ray Villafane began carving pumpkins on a lark for his art students in a small rural school district in Michigan . The hobby changed his life as he gained a viral following online and unlocked his genuine love of sculpting. Here are images of pumpkin carvings Villafane created over the past five years."
Biting his tongue
Brainiac
David Letterman
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
Got my eye on you
Motorized Medusa
Would you open this zipper
Friday, October 29, 2010
What makes a successful writer?
“Constructing “pictures with words” is paramount to creating enjoyable and satisfying novel reading.”
This morning I read this in a newsletter that I subscribe to and it got me to thinking about writing. For years now, I've been dabbling with writing what I guess I'll call my memoirs. Fortunately I have no schedule or deadline to meet so I can bounce in and out of it whenever the mood strikes me. Hence, the years..
I mention this because I've been struggling with my writing style. Of course right away I'm thinking to myself, I have a writing style. Ya, right. So as I write I tend to be very factual in style. By that I mean; I might write that I did this and then that. But, then on occasion I might do that and then this. The point is that I'm writing as if I were creating a technical reference manual full of facts. The quote above uses that phrase "pictures with words". I realize now that, that's what's missing in my writing. You can't, I don't think, read what I've written and see a scene in your mind’s eye.
How do you accomplish this? Is this a talent that one learns or is it simply a built in quality? Is one born with it, the ability to create a picture in words? I guess that's what makes a successful writer, a successful writer.
Thanks for listening.
This morning I read this in a newsletter that I subscribe to and it got me to thinking about writing. For years now, I've been dabbling with writing what I guess I'll call my memoirs. Fortunately I have no schedule or deadline to meet so I can bounce in and out of it whenever the mood strikes me. Hence, the years..
I mention this because I've been struggling with my writing style. Of course right away I'm thinking to myself, I have a writing style. Ya, right. So as I write I tend to be very factual in style. By that I mean; I might write that I did this and then that. But, then on occasion I might do that and then this. The point is that I'm writing as if I were creating a technical reference manual full of facts. The quote above uses that phrase "pictures with words". I realize now that, that's what's missing in my writing. You can't, I don't think, read what I've written and see a scene in your mind’s eye.
How do you accomplish this? Is this a talent that one learns or is it simply a built in quality? Is one born with it, the ability to create a picture in words? I guess that's what makes a successful writer, a successful writer.
Thanks for listening.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
The Eye's have it
It seems that I have been fascinated with beautiful eyes since I was a kid. My first experience was with a second, third or something cousin. She had the most beautiful blue eyes and blonde hair. I was mesmerized with her. I remember riding in a car sitting next to her and our legs actually touched. What a magical moment! But being a shy, pimply faced kid I didn't dare to utter a word. I just sat there and fantasized about her. I use the word fantasize, but it certainly wasn't sexual in nature. Remember shy, pimply faced kids couldn't fathom such a thought. As a side; I saw her as an adult about 20 years ago and I certainly can see where my love for blue eyes came from, but lest I regress. :-)
Then another experience happened to me, maybe 17 or 18 years ago. I was attending a weekend long group help thing. One of the exercises was to stand and stare into a partner’s eyes for an extended period of time without looking away. WOW, what an experience that was. I partnered with an older black woman and by the time we stopped looking, I think we were both in love. It was really interesting because you went through different stages, like fright, laughter, joy, sadness. Just from looking intently into another’s eyes. In the beginning, I thought how dumb can this be, But by the end, I didn't want to stop.
So, that kind of explains my fascination for beauty within women's eyes. Now let's jump to more current times. For some time now, as you may know, I have subscribed to DOMAI, which is a web site of "joyful nudes of beautiful women". While looking at the images, I started paying attention to the eyes and started setting aside some of these pictures, just to enjoy. Somestimes I feel like I can almost see clear into their soul with these wonderful closeups. It is a chance to really look into one's eyes without being questioned at all about motives. Can you imagine staring into a pretty girls eye's and the responce you might get. For me, it's an ugly picture indeed :-(. So with DOMAI founder's Eolake Stobblehouse permission, I have put together a couple of collages that I like. First I gathered together a bunch of images, cropped them to just their face and then secondly I cropped them again to just their eyes. Let me know what you think or have I fallen off the edge on this one? You can click for a bigger image.
First, here are their faces.
And now just the eyes.
Then another experience happened to me, maybe 17 or 18 years ago. I was attending a weekend long group help thing. One of the exercises was to stand and stare into a partner’s eyes for an extended period of time without looking away. WOW, what an experience that was. I partnered with an older black woman and by the time we stopped looking, I think we were both in love. It was really interesting because you went through different stages, like fright, laughter, joy, sadness. Just from looking intently into another’s eyes. In the beginning, I thought how dumb can this be, But by the end, I didn't want to stop.
So, that kind of explains my fascination for beauty within women's eyes. Now let's jump to more current times. For some time now, as you may know, I have subscribed to DOMAI, which is a web site of "joyful nudes of beautiful women". While looking at the images, I started paying attention to the eyes and started setting aside some of these pictures, just to enjoy. Somestimes I feel like I can almost see clear into their soul with these wonderful closeups. It is a chance to really look into one's eyes without being questioned at all about motives. Can you imagine staring into a pretty girls eye's and the responce you might get. For me, it's an ugly picture indeed :-(. So with DOMAI founder's Eolake Stobblehouse permission, I have put together a couple of collages that I like. First I gathered together a bunch of images, cropped them to just their face and then secondly I cropped them again to just their eyes. Let me know what you think or have I fallen off the edge on this one? You can click for a bigger image.
First, here are their faces.
And now just the eyes.
50-year-old kit to capture spectacular nature images
This is a picture taken by phtotgrapher Archer Fish. Click here to see the article containing more spectular images as well as a picture of his setup. Enjoy.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Now here is a fast helicopter!!
To quote www.tvkim.com;
"World's new fastest helicopter
Helicopters have trouble moving at high speeds. That's because their rotor blades start doing odd things. This new design from Sikorsky helps eliminate that problem. It uses two rotors and a pusher prop. That lets it hit speeds over 280 mph."
"World's new fastest helicopter
Helicopters have trouble moving at high speeds. That's because their rotor blades start doing odd things. This new design from Sikorsky helps eliminate that problem. It uses two rotors and a pusher prop. That lets it hit speeds over 280 mph."
Monday, October 25, 2010
Watch and see all the plastic in our oceans
Uncle Ron sent me a pointer on this video and I really feel that I need to let everyone see it and be aware of this very serious problem. Thanks Ron.
A cruise you do NOT want to be on
I had seen this before and just ran across this video again. I am glad that I was not on this cruise.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Rip Van Winkle Bridge
My wife and I took a trip to visit the Olana Estate yesterday. Wow, what a building. I provided a link for you to take a look at it yourself. While there I took this picture of the Rip Van Winkle Bridge crossing the Hudson River. You can click for a larger image.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Social Networking Map Created
Now here is an interesting map that was created as a Map of online communities showing the world of social networking
Monday, October 18, 2010
Pulled-Pork yesterday (updated)
I made pulled-pork yesterday and it is sooo goooood!! A friend of mine from North Carolina said that this is the best that he's had and that's a great compliment. I really don't want to post the recipe here, but we got it from Bon Appetit magazine, the July 1999 issue. The recipe is called Carolina Pulled-Pork Sandwiches. Maybe it's on-line somewhere, I don't know.
Basically, a rub is applied to the pork and kept in the refrigerator overnight. Then it goes onto the smoker for about 6 hours, during which it is mopped every 45 minutes. Then it cools a bit and gets shredded (pulled) with a fork.
If you like pulled-pork, I can highly recommend this one.
Basically, a rub is applied to the pork and kept in the refrigerator overnight. Then it goes onto the smoker for about 6 hours, during which it is mopped every 45 minutes. Then it cools a bit and gets shredded (pulled) with a fork.
If you like pulled-pork, I can highly recommend this one.
Uncle Ron found the recipe for Carolina Pulled-Pork Sandwiches on-line. Thanks Ron.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
More words of Wisdom
Because they had no reservations at a busy restaurant, my elderly neighbor and his wife were told there would be a 45-minute wait for a table. 'Young man, we're both 90 years old,' the husband said ...'We may not have 45 minutes.'
They were seated immediately.
They were seated immediately.
Climb to Heaven
I saw this, this morning on another blog and just had to put it here as well. Holly Crap!!!
Stairway to Heaven (climbing towers) from Joe LaGreca on Vimeo.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Now, here is some Justice
I was in the six item express lane at the store, quietly fuming. Completely ignoring the sign, the woman ahead of me had slipped into the check-out line pushing a cart piled high with groceries. Imagine my delight when the cashier beckoned the woman to come forward, looked into the cart and asked sweetly, 'So which six items would you like to buy?'
Wouldn't it be great if that happened more often?
Wouldn't it be great if that happened more often?
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Google tests cars that can steer without drivers
Now, here's an interesting tidbit to share you with. I seems that Google is branching out a bit with road-testing cars that steer.
Move over, here comes the future.
Move over, here comes the future.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Journey to the edge of space from Newburg, NY
Here is a father and son team that sent an iPhone and a video camera into space. This is what I call a quality father/son experience.
Check out the
pictures and scroll down to see the video.
Check out the
pictures and scroll down to see the video.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Alice in Wonderland
I just finished watching this. Just as a kid, my favorite is still the Cheshire cat. :-)
Wood for the fireplace
My son was in town for a few days this past week and we got several trees cut down and now there's new wook on the pile. Of course, the truth be known, he actually did most of the work. I've learned that what I used to do all night (oops, all day) it now takes me all day to do. :-)
If you read this Will, thanks again for all the help. And next, we'll start on that addition to the house..
If you read this Will, thanks again for all the help. And next, we'll start on that addition to the house..
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Change my blog look
Hey, I'm trying to change the look of the blog. You can see that I've changed the overall width as well as the post area width, ok. But, the text of the posts was not stretched nor can I figure out how to move the rounded corners to the right on the post area..
Any thoughts anyone. Obviously, I'm changing the HTML in the template.
Thanks..
Any thoughts anyone. Obviously, I'm changing the HTML in the template.
Thanks..
Thursday, October 7, 2010
The Greek Antikythera Mechanism
In a previous post is information about a modern mythical computer, the H.A.L.-9000. Well, here is a real ancient computer. Very interesting, indeed.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Walkway Anniversary - a day later
I came home last night with such sore feet! :-( But, for the most part a fun time was had by all.
At one point I was out on the bridge and saw a barge being pushed up-river by a tug boat. Lest we forget that this is a shipping river and channel as well as a place to enjoy the great outdoors.
At one point I was out on the bridge and saw a barge being pushed up-river by a tug boat. Lest we forget that this is a shipping river and channel as well as a place to enjoy the great outdoors.
Dancing at the Movies
I saw this on Eolakes blog this morning and thought it was so much fun that I had to share it..Enjoy..
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Walkway anniversary celebration
Well, it's just about here. I know it's raining right now. But, Saturday is looking like a beautiful day and just right for the first anniversary of the Walkway Over the Hudson opening celebration. I've been volunteering for the organization for some time now and am getting ready for a full day on Saturday. I invite you all to come and have some fun. You can view a poster for the event here here.
Or go to the Walkway web site to check the entire bridge out.
And then on Sunday, I'm going to be joing joining Fred Schaeffer for the first bike ride across the bridge and then onto the newly opened Hudson Valley Rail Trail extending from the Walkway and into the town of LLoyd. This is the newest portion of the rail trail system to open, which opens on Saturday and will begin extending the trail system to the west from the bridge. In the future, a simular connection is planned for the east shore. Ultimately the trail system will extend to the east and the west for miles and miles.
So, if you can this will be a good weekend to be in the Hudson Valley.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Cloudy rainy day
Well, Ron has been posting about the bad weather they've been having way over there on the west coast. Well, thanks Ray...it's here on the east coast now vs. the recent nice day sitting and having lunch on the river.. :-(
Friday, September 24, 2010
Lunch on the river today
We were going to ride 3 wheeled bikes across the Walkway today and have a picnic on the other side, but the bike shop was closed when we got there...so plan B. We went down to the waters edge, where they had just reopened a park after renovating some of the buildings and had a good lunch there listening to the sounds of the river, enjoying the weather and a nice cool breeze.
So with the camera out, I took a couple of shots and then I put on the polarizing filter (which I recently got) because it was a very hazy day and to see if I could get rid of some glare and success.
And then I decided to give the red filter a try, just for the heck of it.
So with the camera out, I took a couple of shots and then I put on the polarizing filter (which I recently got) because it was a very hazy day and to see if I could get rid of some glare and success.
And then I decided to give the red filter a try, just for the heck of it.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
What true friends are.
A good friend of mind sent this to me today. It's message is wonderful and I decided to share it with you here. It's kind of long, but worth the read. Thanks Judy.
Let's see if you send it back. We all know or knew someone like this!!
One day, when I was a freshman in high school,
I saw a kid from my class was walking home from school.
His name was Kyle.
It looked like he was carrying all of his books.
I thought to myself, 'Why would anyone bring home all his books on a Friday?
He must really be a nerd.'
I had quite a weekend planned (parties and a football game with my friends tomorrow afternoon), so I shrugged my shoulders and went on.
As I was walking, I saw a bunch of kids running toward him.
They ran at him, knocking all his books out of his arms and tripping him so he landed in the dirt.
His glasses went flying, and I saw them land in the grass about ten feet from him.
He looked up and I saw this terrible sadness in his eyes
My heart went out to him. So, I jogged over to him as he crawled around looking for his glasses, and I saw a tear in his eye.
As I handed him his glasses, I said, 'Those guys are jerks.'
They really should get lives.
He looked at me and said, 'Hey thanks!'
There was a big smile on his face.
It was one of those smiles that showed real gratitude.
I helped him pick up his books, and asked him where he lived.
As it turned out, he lived near me, so I asked him why I had never seen him before.
He said he had gone to private school before now.
I would have never hung out with a private school kid before.
We talked all the way home, and I carried some of his books.
He turned out to be a pretty cool kid.
I asked him if he wanted to play a little football with my friends
He said yes.
We hung out all weekend and the more I g ot to know Kyle, the more I liked him, and my friends thought the same of him.
Monday morning came, and there was Kyle with the huge stack of books again.
I stopped him and said, 'Boy, you are gonna really build some serious muscles with this pile of books everyday!' He just laughed and handed me half the books.
Over the next four years, Kyle and I became best friends..
When we were seniors we began to think about college.
Kyle decided on Georgetown and I was going to Duke.
I knew that we would always be friends, that the miles would never be a problem.
He was going to be a doctor and I was going for business on a football scholarship.
Kyle was valedictorian of our class.
I teased him all the time about being a nerd.
He had to prepare a speech for graduation.
I was so glad it wasn't me having to get up there and speak
Graduation day, I saw Kyle.
He looked great.
He was one of those guys that really found himself during high school.
He filled out and actually looked good in glasses.
He had more dates than I had and all the girls loved him.
Boy, sometimes I was jealous! Today was one of those days.
I could see that he was nervous about his speech.
So, I smacked him on the back and said, 'Hey, big guy, you'll be great!'
He looked at me with one of those looks (the really grateful one) and smiled.
'Thanks,' he said.
As he started his speech, he cleared his throat, and began
'Graduation is a time to thank those who helped you make it through those tough years. Your parents, your teachers, your siblings, maybe a coach...but mostly your friends... I am here to tell all of you that being a friend to someone is the best gift you can give them. I am going to tell you a story'
I just looked at my friend with disbelief as he told the story of the first day we met.
He had planned to kill himself over the weekend.
He talked of how he had cleaned out his locker so his Mom wouldn't have to do it later and was carrying his stuff home.
He looked hard at me and gave me a little smile.
'Thankfully, I was saved. My friend saved me from doing the unspeakable.'
I heard the gasp go through the crowd as this handsome, popular boy told us all about his weakest moment.
I saw his Mom and dad looking at me and smiling that same grateful smile.
Not until that moment did I realize it's depth.
Never underestimate the power of your actions.
With one small gesture you can change a person's life.
For better or for worse.
God puts us all in each others lives to impact one another in some way.
Look for God in others.
You now have two choices, you can:
1) Pass this on to your friends or
2) Delete it and act like it didn't touch your heart.
As you can see, I took choice number 1.
'Friends are angels who lift us to our feet when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly.'
There is no beginning or end.. Yesterday is history.
Tomorrow is a mystery.
Today is a gift.
It's National Friendship Week. Show your friends how much you care. Send this to everyone you consider a FRIEND.
If it comes back to you, then you'll know you have a circle of friends.
Let's see if you send it back. We all know or knew someone like this!!
One day, when I was a freshman in high school,
I saw a kid from my class was walking home from school.
His name was Kyle.
It looked like he was carrying all of his books.
I thought to myself, 'Why would anyone bring home all his books on a Friday?
He must really be a nerd.'
I had quite a weekend planned (parties and a football game with my friends tomorrow afternoon), so I shrugged my shoulders and went on.
As I was walking, I saw a bunch of kids running toward him.
They ran at him, knocking all his books out of his arms and tripping him so he landed in the dirt.
His glasses went flying, and I saw them land in the grass about ten feet from him.
He looked up and I saw this terrible sadness in his eyes
My heart went out to him. So, I jogged over to him as he crawled around looking for his glasses, and I saw a tear in his eye.
As I handed him his glasses, I said, 'Those guys are jerks.'
They really should get lives.
He looked at me and said, 'Hey thanks!'
There was a big smile on his face.
It was one of those smiles that showed real gratitude.
I helped him pick up his books, and asked him where he lived.
As it turned out, he lived near me, so I asked him why I had never seen him before.
He said he had gone to private school before now.
I would have never hung out with a private school kid before.
We talked all the way home, and I carried some of his books.
He turned out to be a pretty cool kid.
I asked him if he wanted to play a little football with my friends
He said yes.
We hung out all weekend and the more I g ot to know Kyle, the more I liked him, and my friends thought the same of him.
Monday morning came, and there was Kyle with the huge stack of books again.
I stopped him and said, 'Boy, you are gonna really build some serious muscles with this pile of books everyday!' He just laughed and handed me half the books.
Over the next four years, Kyle and I became best friends..
When we were seniors we began to think about college.
Kyle decided on Georgetown and I was going to Duke.
I knew that we would always be friends, that the miles would never be a problem.
He was going to be a doctor and I was going for business on a football scholarship.
Kyle was valedictorian of our class.
I teased him all the time about being a nerd.
He had to prepare a speech for graduation.
I was so glad it wasn't me having to get up there and speak
Graduation day, I saw Kyle.
He looked great.
He was one of those guys that really found himself during high school.
He filled out and actually looked good in glasses.
He had more dates than I had and all the girls loved him.
Boy, sometimes I was jealous! Today was one of those days.
I could see that he was nervous about his speech.
So, I smacked him on the back and said, 'Hey, big guy, you'll be great!'
He looked at me with one of those looks (the really grateful one) and smiled.
'Thanks,' he said.
As he started his speech, he cleared his throat, and began
'Graduation is a time to thank those who helped you make it through those tough years. Your parents, your teachers, your siblings, maybe a coach...but mostly your friends... I am here to tell all of you that being a friend to someone is the best gift you can give them. I am going to tell you a story'
I just looked at my friend with disbelief as he told the story of the first day we met.
He had planned to kill himself over the weekend.
He talked of how he had cleaned out his locker so his Mom wouldn't have to do it later and was carrying his stuff home.
He looked hard at me and gave me a little smile.
'Thankfully, I was saved. My friend saved me from doing the unspeakable.'
I heard the gasp go through the crowd as this handsome, popular boy told us all about his weakest moment.
I saw his Mom and dad looking at me and smiling that same grateful smile.
Not until that moment did I realize it's depth.
Never underestimate the power of your actions.
With one small gesture you can change a person's life.
For better or for worse.
God puts us all in each others lives to impact one another in some way.
Look for God in others.
You now have two choices, you can:
1) Pass this on to your friends or
2) Delete it and act like it didn't touch your heart.
As you can see, I took choice number 1.
'Friends are angels who lift us to our feet when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly.'
There is no beginning or end.. Yesterday is history.
Tomorrow is a mystery.
Today is a gift.
It's National Friendship Week. Show your friends how much you care. Send this to everyone you consider a FRIEND.
If it comes back to you, then you'll know you have a circle of friends.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Friday, September 17, 2010
Saturday, September 11, 2010
I resigned from the Kiwanis Club
Over the years as a member of the Kiwanis Club I have tried to introduce new ideas and concepts into the fundraising efforts of the club. It was always my desire to move from a sales model (selling things) to an event model (one that people come to us). I guess really the first attempt was working with Renee Hargrave on the auctions. Then there was the Fall Festival and last but not least the Walk the Walkway for Kids. Over the span of about 15 or 16 years, it has become very evident to me that the direction of the club, as defined by its membership, does not fall into alignment with my personal goals or methods of approaching fundraising projects.
The goals of Kiwanis in general are very admirable and worthwhile. The local community in is great need for these services. Simply look at the Kingston and Saugerties clubs, they have achieved their spot in their communities and do wonderful work.
So with reluctance, I hereby officially resign my membership from the Kiwanis Club of Poughkeepsie.
The goals of Kiwanis in general are very admirable and worthwhile. The local community in is great need for these services. Simply look at the Kingston and Saugerties clubs, they have achieved their spot in their communities and do wonderful work.
So with reluctance, I hereby officially resign my membership from the Kiwanis Club of Poughkeepsie.
Friday, September 10, 2010
New Utility Room
Well, we're in the middle of deciding to add an addition onto our house. You see we have no basement or gararge, so storage is at a premium. The lawn tractor even spends it's days outside in the weather. Granted it has a tarp over it, but I'd rather have it inside. Well, after lots of discussions on it we're looking into putting a Utility room (12x24 feet) addition on the end. It will be one large room and will hold the tractor, tools, shop, etc. It's going to be kind of my guys room.
Of course the work will be done by me, myself and I and a friend. UGH!, I'm not looking foward to the work, but it's going to be real nice to have some more much needed storage space.
The plans are being drawn now and will be submitted to the town for approval very soon. I'll keep you posted on the progress.
Of course the work will be done by me, myself and I and a friend. UGH!, I'm not looking foward to the work, but it's going to be real nice to have some more much needed storage space.
The plans are being drawn now and will be submitted to the town for approval very soon. I'll keep you posted on the progress.
Morning Rain Drop
Yesterday we had a little rain during the night. When I went out fo the paper, I noticed these rain drops and decided to share one with you. Enjoy..
You can click on it to make it a little larger
You can click on it to make it a little larger
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
It's a book...
It’s a Book, by Lane Smith, is a new instructional guide to teach children about bound-paper forms of communication. Some might call it a “book.”
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Thunder Lake, Minnesota
I saw this picture on the National Geographic web site this morning and thought that it was beautiful and wanted to share it with you. You can click on the image to see it larger.
Monday, August 30, 2010
A demo of Milo, the virtual boy
I ran across this demonstration of Technology on TED: Ideas Worth Spreading. I think you'll enjoy it.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
I'm fried
I got home recently and told my wife that I'm fried. It's the truth... I'll never understand why things come in such waves. A few months ago, I was not really busy at all in my business (no one's computer broke) so I had some free time to sort of do things that I wanted to do. Now I have plenty that I want to do, but I'm so busy now. You just can't win for loosin'.
I really want to get back to my hobbies, photography, writing and drawing some plans for a new addition that we're thinking of adding to our house.
Oh well, time for that nice end of the day cold refreshing drink and unwind. Maybe tomorrow will be different. Ya, I know..that's very wishful thinking.
I really want to get back to my hobbies, photography, writing and drawing some plans for a new addition that we're thinking of adding to our house.
Oh well, time for that nice end of the day cold refreshing drink and unwind. Maybe tomorrow will be different. Ya, I know..that's very wishful thinking.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Meet Taylor Morris
I saw this video on Eolake's blog this morning and was very impressed. It shows that there is hope for the Autistic person. You can see more on Taylor at her web site.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Going to Mozambique?
I saw thin on Eolake's Blog this morning and thought you might enjoy it. Click on the picture to enlarge it. It'll be easier to read..
Monday, August 16, 2010
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Monday, August 9, 2010
University students address children photography conundrum
What is this world coming to, with regard to our children and pictures. This is an article that I came across today. It's about the issue of taking pictures of children in the UK and their very strict laws on it. I as a father would not be able to take a picture of my own son. I simply can't think of anything to describe how disturbing this is to me. So read the article and see what you think.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Jay's Tiny House
This is what's known as a tumble weed house. It's 100 square feet in size and it's on wheels.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
The early Internet years
Did you ever wonder what happened to services like Compuserv and Prodigy. Well, first what were they? According to Wiki...
Prodigy Service
Compuserv Service
Now what happened:
Compuserv ends service
I'm not able to determine exactly what ever happened to Prodigy. Maybe later.
Prodigy Service
Compuserv Service
Now what happened:
Compuserv ends service
I'm not able to determine exactly what ever happened to Prodigy. Maybe later.
Who is Seven of Nine?
The other day I was posting on Rays blog. The discussion was about Star Trek and I had asked who or what is Seven of Nine anyway? Well, what followed was a series of posts that ended in my definition. I post it here for your further enjoyment. :-)
----
To quote that Wiki article, "At some point after her assimilation, Annika was given the Borg designation 'Seven of Nine, Tertiary Adjunct of Unimatrix Zero-One'." Now let's see if we can figure this one out from Merriam-Webster..
Tertiary:
Date: circa 1550
1 [Medieval Latin tertiarius, from Latin, of a third] : a member of a third order especially of lay people
monastic:
I've included this definition just to enhance the meaning of Tertiary
Date: circa 1563
1 : of or relating to monasteries or to monks or nun
Adjunct:
Date: 1588
1 : something joined or added to another thing but not essentially a part of it
Unimatrix:
Note, there no real definition for this, but Wiki kind of defines it as:
Definitions of Unimatrix on the Web:
The Borg are a fictional pseudo-race of cybernetic organisms depicted in the Star Trek universe.
Now, additionally Wiki defines Borg as:
The Borg are a fictional pseudo-race of cybernetic organisms depicted in the Star Trek universe. The Borg consist of assimilated humanoids whose bodies are infested with nano-probes that maintain their health and connection to the hive mind or The Collective The Collective is the group as a whole who operate somewhat like bees with a Queen.
Zero one
Note, Zero one is a programming term:
term used in a special case of integer programming where all the decision variables are integers and can assume values of either zero or one
Now Wiki says that Zero one is:
Pro Wrestling Zero1 (stylized as Pro Wrestling ZERO1), formerly known as Pro Wrestling Zero-One and Pro Wrestling Zero1-Max
So there we have it..let's see if we can make any sense of this..
A little girl, Annika Hansen, at the age of 6 became infested with nano-probes, became a nun and joined a monastery of the third order, which is somehow joined or added to another monastery, but is not a part of it, and they are called the Borg, which is a fictional pseudo-race of cybernetic organisms, which are very good at programming or they wrestle a lot.
I think that certainly clears up the question of what or who Seven of Nine is...
----
To quote that Wiki article, "At some point after her assimilation, Annika was given the Borg designation 'Seven of Nine, Tertiary Adjunct of Unimatrix Zero-One'." Now let's see if we can figure this one out from Merriam-Webster..
Tertiary:
Date: circa 1550
1 [Medieval Latin tertiarius, from Latin, of a third] : a member of a third order especially of lay people
monastic:
I've included this definition just to enhance the meaning of Tertiary
Date: circa 1563
1 : of or relating to monasteries or to monks or nun
Adjunct:
Date: 1588
1 : something joined or added to another thing but not essentially a part of it
Unimatrix:
Note, there no real definition for this, but Wiki kind of defines it as:
Definitions of Unimatrix on the Web:
The Borg are a fictional pseudo-race of cybernetic organisms depicted in the Star Trek universe.
Now, additionally Wiki defines Borg as:
The Borg are a fictional pseudo-race of cybernetic organisms depicted in the Star Trek universe. The Borg consist of assimilated humanoids whose bodies are infested with nano-probes that maintain their health and connection to the hive mind or The Collective The Collective is the group as a whole who operate somewhat like bees with a Queen.
Zero one
Note, Zero one is a programming term:
term used in a special case of integer programming where all the decision variables are integers and can assume values of either zero or one
Now Wiki says that Zero one is:
Pro Wrestling Zero1 (stylized as Pro Wrestling ZERO1), formerly known as Pro Wrestling Zero-One and Pro Wrestling Zero1-Max
So there we have it..let's see if we can make any sense of this..
A little girl, Annika Hansen, at the age of 6 became infested with nano-probes, became a nun and joined a monastery of the third order, which is somehow joined or added to another monastery, but is not a part of it, and they are called the Borg, which is a fictional pseudo-race of cybernetic organisms, which are very good at programming or they wrestle a lot.
I think that certainly clears up the question of what or who Seven of Nine is...
Monday, August 2, 2010
Cry for Baby P
I don't normally post this type of information, but I was very struck by the message and the song. Before you watch the video, scroll down and read the story.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
A few plants out front
Not sure of it's name, but I'm sure that my wife will let me know.. :-)
Elephant Ears. These leaves are almost 2 feet tall. They just seem to love the hot weather we've been having.
Elephant Ears. These leaves are almost 2 feet tall. They just seem to love the hot weather we've been having.
Lawn without water
This is what happens to your front lawn when you don't have rain for a loonng time. I don't know where those trees are getting their water, certainly deeper than the grass..
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 23, 2010
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
The Weather
Boy I am about ready to bury my head in a bucket of water, if this heat continues for much longer. The heat and humidity just drains all of the energy right out of me. I don't want to do anything, let alone think, talk, walk, work, eat, read, etc...you get the idea..
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