tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13782560901528797202024-03-13T21:35:50.428-04:00Cool Breeze MusingsThoughts and Memories from a Middle-Aged, Forty-Something Man Dealing with Life.Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-1609254616798842982009-05-26T16:25:00.002-04:002009-05-26T16:34:00.296-04:00Boys WeekendAs you know, this past weekend I took my annual trip to Charlotte for the Coca-Cola 600 NASCAR race. We always have a good time on these yearly adventures and we can never predict what will happen. It's usually a real trip, if you know what I mean.<br /><br />Here is pic of the Coon Ass as we were tailgating on Sunday afternoon.<br /><br /><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIHzOK1yE61DsvNMmtAT-iHUerqi6WEqvohIPDha0pbBZZ9ubxQWULq0cQJnYOyf7G-to4MmB1RqT1ngb9UFPpa-ZoNvQEzq-cW7Tj6OKxg0vRC10FJAejDdcbbwWv-NV5tvwgTKQ2DwLT/s1600-h/coon+ass"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340233166870715842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIHzOK1yE61DsvNMmtAT-iHUerqi6WEqvohIPDha0pbBZZ9ubxQWULq0cQJnYOyf7G-to4MmB1RqT1ngb9UFPpa-ZoNvQEzq-cW7Tj6OKxg0vRC10FJAejDdcbbwWv-NV5tvwgTKQ2DwLT/s400/coon+ass" border="0" /></a> </p><p> </p><p>I yeah ... I forgot to say I was hanging out with a bunch of fools.<br /></p>Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-31807999064877908502009-05-21T10:35:00.009-04:002009-05-21T10:44:41.339-04:00Charlotte BoundI leave tomorrow morning on my annual trek to The Queen City of Charlotte, NC for our big NASCAR weekend. I have gone for several years now and we always have a blast.<br /><br />Here is a pic of the track.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoQ1F5qluS69WlYbpvMSdzQWmzG8Ua3lsmUoVD04-_qb1tM6r15RxFh4CTxCBzjEAzUd1egnzA33HsdHvmOiutiuuSrl88O6o6aoIdb6rHPlLL0M9xMLicciQInoqCqys29NhHhO2rU-Uu/s1600-h/09asep3682_md.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338286630672354450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoQ1F5qluS69WlYbpvMSdzQWmzG8Ua3lsmUoVD04-_qb1tM6r15RxFh4CTxCBzjEAzUd1egnzA33HsdHvmOiutiuuSrl88O6o6aoIdb6rHPlLL0M9xMLicciQInoqCqys29NhHhO2rU-Uu/s400/09asep3682_md.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Jeff Gordon in the lead ... as it should be.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8pNYZkdiMn9oYRtGJdrAEHschwo73RNS_2xO3Xfv5HyCIjM3UilksGTOw0ZrVpCJWkxb7kXv4vdvyuESo_iHUJ5qfkLk1EUYipOmTPP48yqOonCztBce2nZ4WG1wPjF6ywPs9ImnjyYkH/s1600-h/09asep4095_md.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338286550525424434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 203px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8pNYZkdiMn9oYRtGJdrAEHschwo73RNS_2xO3Xfv5HyCIjM3UilksGTOw0ZrVpCJWkxb7kXv4vdvyuESo_iHUJ5qfkLk1EUYipOmTPP48yqOonCztBce2nZ4WG1wPjF6ywPs9ImnjyYkH/s400/09asep4095_md.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I certainly don't want to see this, but ...<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtzHjBllniLyfZ7nMDsqCOztIwwdEheSbEov5zQxB0VtXxtRsZ45TjZcANLoju3m3UPzg4bq7nBB94LJruXxwYGruyX_4MhBaiZ5o_1H8M3jrXTU-krcsTXG3I7vyCax0lJirpXBYdXmHP/s1600-h/09asep4174_md.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338286466023004722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 157px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtzHjBllniLyfZ7nMDsqCOztIwwdEheSbEov5zQxB0VtXxtRsZ45TjZcANLoju3m3UPzg4bq7nBB94LJruXxwYGruyX_4MhBaiZ5o_1H8M3jrXTU-krcsTXG3I7vyCax0lJirpXBYdXmHP/s400/09asep4174_md.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />... it could always be worse.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVF99BToAUzAvmeRr1enEnGEw1RvEB1fd5xqgQyaB93D0bz0uTB46Bzoq65R2qNQU0Lrzy_n8aJZca2X1tszwuZdyuz2neHd0rqceDHTZEecoKrawQIxnD6N_Ua7BkRNjQSG7E93P1MLec/s1600-h/09asep4202_md.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338286380930417586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 143px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVF99BToAUzAvmeRr1enEnGEw1RvEB1fd5xqgQyaB93D0bz0uTB46Bzoq65R2qNQU0Lrzy_n8aJZca2X1tszwuZdyuz2neHd0rqceDHTZEecoKrawQIxnD6N_Ua7BkRNjQSG7E93P1MLec/s400/09asep4202_md.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div></div></div><br /><br /><br />I know we will have a great time again.Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-10969446082583969992009-05-15T12:47:00.003-04:002009-05-15T12:53:07.200-04:00A Day in the ParkToday is beautiful with sunshine and temperatures around 80.<br /><br />Today I got to work outside ... for a little while anyway. Being a surveyor, I tend to like being outside, but due to the nature of the business world, someone has to be inside, behind a computer or talking on the phone. That person is typically me, and has been for many years.<br /><br />But today ... lets just say, it was a walk in the park.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2jzRVGNgfmk-1Xz9l0FJVMEn8BUIUmFlsr1fgEf3liSKpYmh77SqwtXtC3t1_kkJ68foLmkw6KRy8tPzzgQtKqNoBbu-Jpc3Buwny-bz4iCLo8ZOGd_VP_JOIvDBA_SalcZVdtslSFz5S/s1600-h/1817352.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5336094384686306034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 282px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2jzRVGNgfmk-1Xz9l0FJVMEn8BUIUmFlsr1fgEf3liSKpYmh77SqwtXtC3t1_kkJ68foLmkw6KRy8tPzzgQtKqNoBbu-Jpc3Buwny-bz4iCLo8ZOGd_VP_JOIvDBA_SalcZVdtslSFz5S/s400/1817352.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I can't wait to see what happens Monday.Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-7894253247457144462009-05-14T11:12:00.002-04:002009-05-14T11:14:56.707-04:00The Perfect GiftNow I know what to get you ... finally!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/WhwbxEfy7fg&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/WhwbxEfy7fg&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Birthday Season is coming right up!Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-84101005706005145112009-05-13T16:28:00.001-04:002009-05-13T16:30:21.486-04:00Where the heck is Cool Breeze?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuF5BGlljZ_x_yUyZ72JNdqlsX4zEUhU87pbyAzvL4jEJGdE5W0RqJ-tycSk091E0FTlj-y6Vs3AlyveTi6A_mXhGmGpog4fhWPD_r5VFIiXLwcVNc4F4e_ssBl4JGeW0exuS47WuF-ka/s1600-h/11949897471113666155sleeping_bear_under_sta_01_svg_med.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335408379909829426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 285px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuF5BGlljZ_x_yUyZ72JNdqlsX4zEUhU87pbyAzvL4jEJGdE5W0RqJ-tycSk091E0FTlj-y6Vs3AlyveTi6A_mXhGmGpog4fhWPD_r5VFIiXLwcVNc4F4e_ssBl4JGeW0exuS47WuF-ka/s400/11949897471113666155sleeping_bear_under_sta_01_svg_med.png" border="0" /></a><br /><div> ... just in case anybody wondered ...</div>Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-83018296386869764202009-02-04T16:16:00.006-05:002009-02-04T16:33:59.847-05:00Time FliesJust yesterday, my baby girl looked like this.<br /><br /><br /><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOEhCaZHqMtgsrENfjnqIR9B5tNLDBzxtWmAYnoqJgAknmBIJ_6sYNN4eOdGS5slIADVS1z6JdzcDtz1Isj0U7ejrWoW5C1G7bVkfJf6t1e1w4t-iTv4ClQV4FULT8Lglt3lJfvz6i7jYQ/s1600-h/Rachel.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299056716128853490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 254px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOEhCaZHqMtgsrENfjnqIR9B5tNLDBzxtWmAYnoqJgAknmBIJ_6sYNN4eOdGS5slIADVS1z6JdzcDtz1Isj0U7ejrWoW5C1G7bVkfJf6t1e1w4t-iTv4ClQV4FULT8Lglt3lJfvz6i7jYQ/s400/Rachel.jpg" border="0" /></a> </p><p>Today, she is one year older (I know it could not possibly be any longer than that) and now looks like this.</p><p> </p><p><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3gmDIJcqLaH-YOG8e0g4AGWT6goKTLEVFFKvsG1VsaGu9HdbJolp035va-P65dPvmQPF9H9I-DwcWTEIVqXOuu_soNJGzG7MKqkQBfiBDIBvEeke_4kxlpuSOOMUGPG2fH8UtFbRf87Qm/s1600-h/Rachel+at+16.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299057324081391234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 285px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3gmDIJcqLaH-YOG8e0g4AGWT6goKTLEVFFKvsG1VsaGu9HdbJolp035va-P65dPvmQPF9H9I-DwcWTEIVqXOuu_soNJGzG7MKqkQBfiBDIBvEeke_4kxlpuSOOMUGPG2fH8UtFbRf87Qm/s400/Rachel+at+16.jpg" border="0" /></a> </p><p>Happy Seventeenth Birthday Sweetie!</p><p>Man that was fast.</p>Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-6157195256019922302009-02-03T07:47:00.002-05:002009-02-03T07:53:03.486-05:00SlackingI have been neglecting my blog for a week now and I'm sorry for that. Things have been a bit hectic lately and my mind has been elsewhere.<br /><br />Work is still slow. I have a couple of projects coming, but we just can't seem to get the go-ahead ... very <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">frustrating</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">stressful</span> ... can't keep the guys busy.<br /><br />We're impatiently waiting for the contractor to get started on the garage transformation ... left him messages the last two days ... no return phone call ... very frustrating and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">stressful</span> ... still have a bunch of stuff in the garage anyway ... seems to be multiplying some how.<br /><br />I miss all my blog buddies and I hope all is well with each of you.<br /><br />I'll be in touch.Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-1513583259895864492009-01-26T16:33:00.009-05:002009-01-26T17:00:21.846-05:00Moving?<div><div>Last weekend was the beginning of our new garage enclosure project. Our <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">initial</span> thought was to get all of the crap out and begin the project. I (for some reason) decided that since we were going to all of that trouble anyway, we might as well tackle the attic while we were at it. Heck, all the Christmas stuff was already down, right?</div><div><br /> </div><div>Little did I know that there was a mountain of additional crap up there. Stuff from prior moves and an accumulation of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">memorabilia</span> spanning over 22 years. Needless to say, we didn't get it all done that weekend.</div><div><br /> </div><div><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">BHE</span> and I took off from work this past Friday to tackle the now enormous task of emptying the garage not only of what was there initially, but also the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">additional</span> truck load that had been in the attic.</div><div><br /> </div><div>Here are some pics of all the stuff that could easily fill a semi-<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">trailer</span> (if I only had one). These were BEFORE we brought the stuff down from the attic.</div></div><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlPSAf9lQl9w2_Nf6zFTBx9uGWldnP0lmlM5n6-ffDyIUtJhMBkLxxj9N5VQ1mR6M1uZvr_n4sg0ovE-YodWsmXv4hHaJlVLrZj5RoVBUyFLg5tIHYiMM_01XuY7VCTQ25mzxIlF6hpDS/s1600-h/House+Before+005.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295721636499874594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlPSAf9lQl9w2_Nf6zFTBx9uGWldnP0lmlM5n6-ffDyIUtJhMBkLxxj9N5VQ1mR6M1uZvr_n4sg0ovE-YodWsmXv4hHaJlVLrZj5RoVBUyFLg5tIHYiMM_01XuY7VCTQ25mzxIlF6hpDS/s400/House+Before+005.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYV2IJ5FnQbmc078pxKU3tC6bkod5Q14MK4huJXub1hDwEWw7vN1RrlE3uVH8oQYwGGaXUtRRRStIkH_70vMbBuNoia22A_9FYMjVmAaEFFvNzKH2SL9_MbqhQi79GifANCAzBJ4MKJLAL/s1600-h/House+Before+002.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295721500888547170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYV2IJ5FnQbmc078pxKU3tC6bkod5Q14MK4huJXub1hDwEWw7vN1RrlE3uVH8oQYwGGaXUtRRRStIkH_70vMbBuNoia22A_9FYMjVmAaEFFvNzKH2SL9_MbqhQi79GifANCAzBJ4MKJLAL/s400/House+Before+002.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Here is one showing <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">BHE's</span> pile outside. It includes additions from the attic that she has stored in nice containers. (Have I ever told you about her tendency to be a little anal-<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">retentive</span>?) She said we had to move it all and separate it first into three different sections. One to keep, one to throw away, and one to send to church for the annual yard sale (some crap she saw on some show on TLC). This pic shows the stuff we are keeping and in the background is my hunting truck that we were using for all of the throw aways (aka trash).<br /><p><br /><br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh8YvH4msfzT7sqpVD2qaBBdiUX6W52rlfIilDAMcfXHGg_mZEjxaat2Sun_PUqjdUr_PQiVWkJhPuPytwpHCpmWd2AZmxLznezRj6iaWztAmVUBMtnwPjHX7eTgEpwRaAlvuzT9owYTuA/s1600-h/IMG_6202.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295722858374590514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh8YvH4msfzT7sqpVD2qaBBdiUX6W52rlfIilDAMcfXHGg_mZEjxaat2Sun_PUqjdUr_PQiVWkJhPuPytwpHCpmWd2AZmxLznezRj6iaWztAmVUBMtnwPjHX7eTgEpwRaAlvuzT9owYTuA/s400/IMG_6202.JPG" border="0" /></a> </p><p>We got a lot done, but we still haven't finished and my shed is now busting, but there is nothing in the attic anymore and I hope I can keep it that way if at all possible.</p><p> </p><p>We hope that the contractor will be starting this week (at least next week).</p><p> </p><p>I have one question though. How and why do we have so much crap that we hang onto? (sorry ... was that two questions?)<br /><br /></p>Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-34020956166427060812009-01-22T16:01:00.005-05:002009-01-22T16:06:26.435-05:00What's in a name?Cool Breeze ... circa 1983<br /><br /><br /><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6-dEqy-UYjkeC-_Lte4HCMfUxpDA5ItPdN1NA60GqSEvnC3nMFIiKClgyJTnv9pDrTi9CSgNOld_Z4M7iD-8Ml8U_BnUziCfIm57UmKOUhik3zMpBHENKPHZ8uJFLuq7A4k4cIvIYgszH/s1600-h/Old+School.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294226412186386770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 335px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6-dEqy-UYjkeC-_Lte4HCMfUxpDA5ItPdN1NA60GqSEvnC3nMFIiKClgyJTnv9pDrTi9CSgNOld_Z4M7iD-8Ml8U_BnUziCfIm57UmKOUhik3zMpBHENKPHZ8uJFLuq7A4k4cIvIYgszH/s400/Old+School.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Cool Breeze ... circa 2008</p><p><br /> </p><br /><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbosULXoYRoM-S5K5KZT2v5yx8uza0XEK9ykwN3brurnGVMqmoBn4D9hcT4x39bEsibmquLzrDW2uZLd1hDagb0hFKYFRAFV4DqddUgMNxks0SdRpI8T2l3glCyMJLZOgIOeALP45Xr9NZ/s1600-h/cool_breeze.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294226722219115602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 269px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbosULXoYRoM-S5K5KZT2v5yx8uza0XEK9ykwN3brurnGVMqmoBn4D9hcT4x39bEsibmquLzrDW2uZLd1hDagb0hFKYFRAFV4DqddUgMNxks0SdRpI8T2l3glCyMJLZOgIOeALP45Xr9NZ/s400/cool_breeze.jpg" border="0" /></a> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>Any answers?<br /></p>Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-34581423044698974402009-01-21T08:39:00.002-05:002009-01-21T08:48:48.520-05:00Busy Again?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXIb-2F_cNmjfk1PFvZtB5G_m2XTqj93Mjg3-u2lTtQ7-M-GtlJ1dbXro_FRX-FS96IHPYH1tXUdrGjwY4cG1ONycxfHpmHYKYhSG69cXpp8EO-lSFsB2XOiqnPfzfA_4Qhkbye5tPq74T/s1600-h/Plane-Table-Surveying-3.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293741429070866386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 255px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXIb-2F_cNmjfk1PFvZtB5G_m2XTqj93Mjg3-u2lTtQ7-M-GtlJ1dbXro_FRX-FS96IHPYH1tXUdrGjwY4cG1ONycxfHpmHYKYhSG69cXpp8EO-lSFsB2XOiqnPfzfA_4Qhkbye5tPq74T/s400/Plane-Table-Surveying-3.png" border="0" /></a><br /><em>The above depicts a lost practice (and art) in the field of surveying called "Plane Table Surveying". This was done so long ago, I was not taught how to do it.</em><br /><em></em><br /><br />I thought I would post this picture today to let you know that things have picked up at work somewhat, and that is why I have been without words the past few days. I guess it's a good thing, but I feel have been slacking on my post. What's up with that?<br /><br />Hopefully, it is a good sign, and if I am failing to post regularly, you will know that I actually have something to do.<br /><br /><br />Then again, I may be wasting time on Facebook.Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-37194857171947270622009-01-16T15:51:00.003-05:002009-01-16T16:35:13.303-05:00Big WeekendWhat are you doing this weekend? Well here is what I have in store.<br /><br />Tonight we will be eating out with the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">in laws</span> to celebrate my and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">granddaddy's</span> birthdays. His is on Sunday and of course mine was this past Monday. Did I already tell how we stretch our big days out to more like a season. We're hitting this little <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">rinky</span>-dink seafood place down the road that has the best crab cakes ever. However, whatever I get will have to be broiled this time. It should be fun and we won't be out late.<br /><br />Tomorrow is another story ... but let me back up a second.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">BHE</span> and I have lived in our house for seven years now. I believe she refers to it as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Casa</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">de</span> Envy. What she did not tell you is that we live in a very small space as far as houses go. When we bought the piece of land we are on back in 2000, our original intention was to just hold on to it for several years and maybe build in the future. But I could not take the subdivision life after 6 grueling years and had to make a move before I killed someone. I guess I just need my own space.<br /><br />Being the analytical person that I am, I had to formulate a plan for development for the property. I mean like for the now and the future. At the time, all of our parents were still living and most remarried, basically doubling the potential for us having to take care of someone in the future. My thought was to build something small ... basically an <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">in law</span> suite that we could live in temporarily (a few years is what we figured) and then we could build our dream house in front. Whoever we ended up with (that doesn't sound nice) would then be able stay close, but still have there own little space. It was a great concept.<br /><br />I designed the small house to resemble what we like to call a carriage/pool house ... with the living area on one side, with a double garage on the other end. The pool would then be off of the living end and the main house would be in front of the pool facing the drive and field.<br /><br />Can you see it, or have I totally confused you?<br /><br />Two years ago, we had plans drawn for the big house. We went through the design process for several months until we got just about exactly what we wanted.<br /><br />Then we started getting prices ...<br /><br /><br /><br /> ... so we opted for the pool instead.<br /><br />Now, instead of building the house of our dreams (the one we don't need since we already have one and the fact that Snow White will only be around for a short while and the fact that spending all of that money on something to show rather than something to use makes no sense at all) we are enclosing our garage and making it into a big family room complete with gas fireplace and big screen <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">tv</span> with surround sound. It still won't be a big house, but our living space is gonna just about double, and that is a dream come true.<br /><br />Now I can tell you what I am doing tomorrow:<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />CLEANING OUT THE GARAGE<br /><br />Have a productive weekend.<br /><br />(Oh, and by the way, all of the parents are on there own now ... no, just kidding. We'll have to deal with that when it comes around.)Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-23344131313996272242009-01-15T15:13:00.005-05:002009-01-15T15:38:33.716-05:00Test ResultsAs I mentioned the other day, I had a checkup with the doctor. You know, one of those things you're supposed to do after you turn forty (and then, forever and ever thereafter).<br /><br />The results weren't great.<br /><br />My blood pressure is still elevated. Well maybe "elevated" is not the right term since everyone who checked it gave me this look like I was some mutant or something. But you know, the hell of it is, I was on some meds for 8 months before the test and apparently they were doing nothing other than making me feel like shit (which took me several months to figure out).<br /><br />Today I got the call from the nurse saying that all of my test results were back. She said the urine test was ok (yeah, I had to piss in the cup, and no I didn't end up pissing down the front of my pants thank you very much). My PSA numbers were ok (which is good since my dad had prostate cancer), my sugar was acceptable (it was 101 ... she said 99 would have been better. No shit Sherlock), but my cholesterol is way too high.<br /><br />Shocking.<br /><br />Listen to this though.<br /><br />BHE and I eat pretty darn healthy, even before this whole diet thing.<br /><br />I go to the gym at least 3 to 4 days a week and have been doing so for years.<br /><br />I am somewhat overweight, but nowhere near obese.<br /><br />What can I do? Should I even worry about it?<br /><br />Signed,<br /><br />Over the hill and trying to push a rope.Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-43756255516033453422009-01-13T10:27:00.004-05:002009-01-13T16:40:45.781-05:00Old FriendsOne of my New Year's Resolutions is to keep in touch with old friends more. I should say that I need to contact old friends more just because I haven't been doing it at all. I'm sure we all have the same excuses. You know, like "Life always seems to get in the way" or "The kids lives always seem to come first" or " Work is always on the front burner". All of that crap that happens as you get old.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Today, I set up a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Facebook</span> page and already have contacted several old friends from High School that I haven't talked to in years. It's great to here from them.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />These are a couple of pics I actually found on <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">someones</span> site. Be kind. Remember they were taken way back when and the quality is poor.<br /><br /><br />This first one is from High School Graduation. I am on the far right.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuEsGLA1gsXTCXWJyYOx8bnnOfFajK0a8c_5SPSZKwEFCMMSPHuc_7h4LKffL_MgZxK-lpC9820RbeA048fB1g7w_D4SlaWEkf3YGVNtLF_ijidFgmf3f7Ft3pcSh1ENVK1vBU8jtSiBij/s1600-h/n1132131067_203686_5249.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290894323957584306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuEsGLA1gsXTCXWJyYOx8bnnOfFajK0a8c_5SPSZKwEFCMMSPHuc_7h4LKffL_MgZxK-lpC9820RbeA048fB1g7w_D4SlaWEkf3YGVNtLF_ijidFgmf3f7Ft3pcSh1ENVK1vBU8jtSiBij/s400/n1132131067_203686_5249.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p> </p><p>This second one is from some basketball game. Here, I am in the middle. Don't ask me why we were wearing shorts. Basketball season is usually pretty cold around here.<br /><br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_CK13Y295iO7X8BBNjTPfR8ccbCfWcO-MWnZ51Jv8Ta-FdUcSfpPrIQ5xFR1tBdtdQgoV1EObOAbPqoDGqoGuxdIbSa8i-GOIeW2bT9veGgVGUPm7WuGpW3jKm-riKqtvcb-PHtxDAUq6/s1600-h/n1132131067_203689_5919.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290894572566004002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_CK13Y295iO7X8BBNjTPfR8ccbCfWcO-MWnZ51Jv8Ta-FdUcSfpPrIQ5xFR1tBdtdQgoV1EObOAbPqoDGqoGuxdIbSa8i-GOIeW2bT9veGgVGUPm7WuGpW3jKm-riKqtvcb-PHtxDAUq6/s400/n1132131067_203689_5919.jpg" border="0" /></a> </p><p>I don't know if I have ever seen either one of these pictures, ever. Do you think they look 25 years old? You're darn <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">tootin</span>'!</p><p>So far, this particular resolution has been a wise one and I can't wait to see what kind of stuff will be showing up. Beware some (or should I say all) of the pictures from back in the day will probably be of the same quality. It really shows my age.</p><p>How many out there still keep up with old friends?<br /><br /><br /></p>Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-72670042919470853612009-01-12T07:51:00.016-05:002009-01-12T08:27:17.428-05:00Another Day, Another Year<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8cduWacmGVmuA9kUQL8F5VOC-Chnqo7cfVko359yuoZUdMNj7KYO5XGMlHYpeAqDrTFXFWPdRpZCzVkMrIPKV8dL9ajaKwqTB_oN_Byxw3zNbel20f73WtUhpXtGxwbWr6iY8n3kiH4G2/s1600-h/th_birthday-cake-1.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290391271002122306" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 145px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 151px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8cduWacmGVmuA9kUQL8F5VOC-Chnqo7cfVko359yuoZUdMNj7KYO5XGMlHYpeAqDrTFXFWPdRpZCzVkMrIPKV8dL9ajaKwqTB_oN_Byxw3zNbel20f73WtUhpXtGxwbWr6iY8n3kiH4G2/s320/th_birthday-cake-1.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Today is my birthday.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>It's number is one of double digits (or should I just say double fours).</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Next year will be a speed limit.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I have an appointment with the doctor today for my 6 month checkup that is 2 months late. I wonder what my cholesterol count is now? How about my blood pressure? I already know I need to lose like 20 pounds.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Work is way off right now ... slow, slow, slowest.</div><div></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>But I am not going to let any of that bother me today. It's my birthday and I am going to try to be happy. That was one of my New Years Resolutions.</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>I hope everyone has a wonderful day. I know I will.</div>Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-5638184303500480232009-01-08T16:06:00.006-05:002009-01-08T16:26:42.593-05:00The DT's<div align="left"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ok</span>, I know all you <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">winers</span> (I mean winos) out there have been complaining about not being able to drink since you all started this diet craze. Well let me tell you, I'm right there with you.<br /><br /><br /><br />I haven't had a good cocktail since Saturday and it's really starting to bug me. I know. I am weak-minded and am probably a bit of a lush, but dude , it's hard with the whole cold turkey thing.<br /><br /><br /><br />No, I'm kidding really. It has not been too bad in truth. I'm sure it's all in my mind anyway.<br /><br /><br /><br />Here is my little "nectar of the god's" that I have been missing all week.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwoKt48Qpjbx4FyTeutkmZb6baGm-nmWRcx8LElnpv7PwVBwGzw_8c3ItFEO8juigcu68F2soynXRoKe7O9WAM7rTGYL8EsCzonBfRpZsIG0w7Q5SLVy-sUuWaVPnuixu0n8-95nzaJqEB/s1600-h/jimbeamblack1.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289033831341241346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 285px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwoKt48Qpjbx4FyTeutkmZb6baGm-nmWRcx8LElnpv7PwVBwGzw_8c3ItFEO8juigcu68F2soynXRoKe7O9WAM7rTGYL8EsCzonBfRpZsIG0w7Q5SLVy-sUuWaVPnuixu0n8-95nzaJqEB/s400/jimbeamblack1.gif" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a><br /><br />Here's what one of your wino magazine's had to say about it:<br /><br /><br />Jim Beam Black<br />Whiskey<br />Rating<br />Jim Beam Black®<br />93<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Woodford</span> Reserve®<br />89<br />Wild Turkey®<br />82<br />Gentleman Jack®<br />81<br />Crown Royal®<br />81<br />Jack Daniel's®</p><p align="center">81</p><p align="center">In a recent independent study, the Beverage Testing Institute rated Jim Beam Black® highest among leading North American whiskeys for its overall nose, depth of flavor and finish. Every barrel is aged 8 years to achieve a full 86 proof and distinctive character that anyone can respect.</p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;">Beverage Testing Institute - Professional Tasting - Chicago, Illinois 2005Wine Enthusiast Magazine rated Jim Beam Black Superb (90-95)/Highly Recommended in the American Whiskey category of the Top 60 Spirits for 2003.</span></p><p align="left"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></p><p align="left">So all of you winos out there quit your wining. It won't be long now.</p>Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-31282881977796302242009-01-07T07:58:00.004-05:002009-01-07T08:03:32.482-05:00Slight ChangeNow that hunting season is over, it's time for a change.<br /><br /><br /><br />Here is what I looked like for the past couple of months.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_jfS6xpibcBV9YIjDWBGkdfVu9TQ0EdZIM83xCyTvYEG8O-yPPYXsaZcfaMLLbmIWV-NOblBmiVJFSJS9dGh2R60AR8Z0vQpfsQpERY1nrB33juaIO26_OXWPYHV9RzIrjmgHS0rxfWLW/s1600-h/before.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288535787478946754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 180px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 215px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_jfS6xpibcBV9YIjDWBGkdfVu9TQ0EdZIM83xCyTvYEG8O-yPPYXsaZcfaMLLbmIWV-NOblBmiVJFSJS9dGh2R60AR8Z0vQpfsQpERY1nrB33juaIO26_OXWPYHV9RzIrjmgHS0rxfWLW/s400/before.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />This morning I did this.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRI1EIqo0B3T9Qll_NSYIv8NPbrsHjoJPwGcGpJE9nXyurJjTpT-287xWNH7SdLEKo45qvv776fAz5e_dJ5dbeM7nnBfdmOONxIaUGPq1IQR7tm6QQchz72uJp7qROKLbN5sDO-qdfun0q/s1600-h/after.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288536139387104450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 180px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 215px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRI1EIqo0B3T9Qll_NSYIv8NPbrsHjoJPwGcGpJE9nXyurJjTpT-287xWNH7SdLEKo45qvv776fAz5e_dJ5dbeM7nnBfdmOONxIaUGPq1IQR7tm6QQchz72uJp7qROKLbN5sDO-qdfun0q/s400/after.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Neither Snow White or BHE or my partner at work has said anything.<br /><br />How long do you think it will be before someone notices?Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-58297888768040818612009-01-05T16:26:00.003-05:002009-01-05T16:42:42.841-05:00Back to the Old Grind<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilng0tZhTdbIZ6CLsBi9-6C59xo_iqZW4dC_pdQteCtdh97YLpYHwcUP7HzcCMlgcj8n_Pjz55tSzutOEMHOdm38BiVcJhJWf7WPJRl2l3E2y2vcwcleXbvLADlHJKBMifxrIrqKdaMPI4/s1600-h/WorkMonday.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287924404069787634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 398px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 323px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilng0tZhTdbIZ6CLsBi9-6C59xo_iqZW4dC_pdQteCtdh97YLpYHwcUP7HzcCMlgcj8n_Pjz55tSzutOEMHOdm38BiVcJhJWf7WPJRl2l3E2y2vcwcleXbvLADlHJKBMifxrIrqKdaMPI4/s400/WorkMonday.jpg" border="0" /></a><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">AHHH</span>, Monday.<br /><br />You know, the Monday after you have been off for four days ... one of those Monday's when you really wish you still had another four days to loaf off (I mean get things done around the house).<br />But no. It was back to work today and I was really not looking forward to it.<br /><br />It has been a pretty good day though. The phone was actually ringing some and I picked up a small job. (At least it will give the guys a little something to do).<br /><br />We also had some new office furniture start to arrive today, and something new is always exciting, regardless if it makes me sick every time I think about spending any money during this economy ... especially cash. But we have gradually been getting the office the way we want it, so we figured we would spend a little at the end of the year rather than giving it all to Uncle Sam. It's strange how the government awards us for being in debt and penalizes us for paying our bills and saving money ... but that is a story for a different post.<br /><br />I am actually looking forward to the challenges that the new year will bring. The bad economy won't last forever, and I am hoping to be ready for the upturn when it comes. Hopefully, we can weather the storm until then. If we could just get that one call, everything will be back on track.<br /><br />We're keeping our chins up for now and trying to think positively.<br /><br />Please send some good karma this way, if you have any to spare.Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-3123585809092142482009-01-01T00:01:00.001-05:002009-01-01T00:01:01.201-05:00Happy New Year!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYmt3GlVbqNQRGonpYx4vnu-dUuqgj1fb2mTR_msagWksb0DHHp_Wb_C4gqe9mEJzdrIbIbpV39q7auxcP5_us1FCpYWpyKpK0S1TySF7y6Ktntzx0Rtej1-3KJqBcRFNkoJkJlEyci-CN/s1600-h/New_Years_Toast.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285971674620412242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 316px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYmt3GlVbqNQRGonpYx4vnu-dUuqgj1fb2mTR_msagWksb0DHHp_Wb_C4gqe9mEJzdrIbIbpV39q7auxcP5_us1FCpYWpyKpK0S1TySF7y6Ktntzx0Rtej1-3KJqBcRFNkoJkJlEyci-CN/s400/New_Years_Toast.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Here's to all of you out there, wishing you a wonderful and prosperous New Year!<br /><br /><br />Cool Breeze's New Year Resolutions for 2009<br /><br />1. Try to be a happier person (I have the tendency to not be very content for some reason)<br /><br />2. Tell my wife and daughter that I love them each day (seems to slip by ... this will change)<br /><br />3. Spend more time outside with my aging friend, Dodger (my(our) dog who I will miss terribly when gone)<br /><br />4. Plant flowers and flowering bushes for my wife (she loves them, but I am no gardener)<br /><br />5. Push myself a bit more at work (I have really become so apathetic about my job ... MUST STOP)<br /><br />6. Make contact with old friends (life and kids and work and etc. seem to have come between us)<br /><br />7. Watch less tv and read more (yeah, good luck with that one)<br /><br />8. Lose that 20 pounds I have been trying to lose for 15 years (yeah, good luck with that one too)<br /><br />9. Eat all good food (not "good for you" necessarily all the time, but why eat something I can't stand?)<br /><br />10. Look forward to next half of my life rather than looking back and wondering why I'm wasting time blogging or wondering "what if?"<br /><br /><br />I also look forward to meeting new friends and maybe, just maybe, meeting some of you.<br /><br />Happy New Year from Cool Breeze!Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-67767829911543598262008-12-31T09:00:00.000-05:002008-12-31T08:56:22.761-05:00Christmas Vacation<em>I wrote this a few weeks ago and thought I lost it when I navigated away from my New Post page. I didn't realize it was saved as a draft. Idiot<br /><br />So here it is finally ... </em><br /><br />If you didn't know already, we try to keep a sense of humor around our house. Sometimes it's a sick sense of humor, but all the same, there is usually something to laugh at (or someone usually). Whether it be on tv or the computer or just someone in our daily lives, we are typically laughing at some point.<br /><br />During the holidays (and you have to admit it) there is a certain amount of stress that we all have to deal with. There is shopping and gifts and parties and concerts and dinners and family and kids and old people and ... well, you get my drift.<br /><br />But then you can have the quiet times too. You know those times when just you and your immediate family get to hang out. Maybe with the lights down low and just the tree shining in all its glory. We will always do this at least once during the season and we will always watch "Christmas Vacation" at least once. It gives us more chances to laugh at someone who definitely has it worse than us, but it also shows us that even with the stress of the holidays, the true meaning always come out in the end.<br /><br />Here are a couple of clips that are my favorites. Enjoy!<br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/QEZWtohobaE&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/QEZWtohobaE&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/F9sY6iH9Ojg&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/F9sY6iH9Ojg&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/YlfV1Q2eSkE&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/YlfV1Q2eSkE&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-6442369866667080792008-12-29T16:08:00.005-05:002008-12-29T16:25:37.520-05:00Hankerin'Have you ever had one of those days when you find yourself thinking about some random food that you haven't eaten since like before you had a choice of what to eat?<br /><em>(Did that make any sense at all?)</em><br /><br />Anyway, today, for some reason, I started thinking about a big <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ol</span>' pot of navy beans like my mom used to cook when I was a kid. She would have some ham bone or just chunks of country ham in a big pot full with beans and all of it just cooked to death. We would always add vinegar to our big bowls sitting at the supper table. I can smell it right now!<br /><br />It was sounding so good to me, I had to tell BHE ...<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAiI471IurSO9-OcfleFlwAJe9untonIqDTagiBEXNA_oukXZ1vmb97FSaMwvw3RIR1dGN-tUQhXbp9uPGMDJ3i4UK-e6YugxBNlEnpq_aHc2XyJT5Nhy5TPxt0GwIFdNcPet5REmg56kW/s1600-h/BeanSoup.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285322209136650338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 292px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAiI471IurSO9-OcfleFlwAJe9untonIqDTagiBEXNA_oukXZ1vmb97FSaMwvw3RIR1dGN-tUQhXbp9uPGMDJ3i4UK-e6YugxBNlEnpq_aHc2XyJT5Nhy5TPxt0GwIFdNcPet5REmg56kW/s400/BeanSoup.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><p><p></p><p></p><p></p><br /><br />She said, "Doesn't that sound special". <p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Sorry honey, I forgot.</p>Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-42035663437711057422008-12-25T12:00:00.000-05:002008-12-25T12:00:00.770-05:00Merry Christmas<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkH1OeoujzVltJIYzfukr7gp36smxcqKROsMa5Ab-J6te1ohi834_QGQSUU2Z2p6DZptCuQcmUlFyIjg9OHJHX3QaR5lJWAzxZNndDVbVR1XplcZkvoESWuAalWVibrVDB7Y9gFvdtUxxY/s1600-h/Tree.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283417637412413570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkH1OeoujzVltJIYzfukr7gp36smxcqKROsMa5Ab-J6te1ohi834_QGQSUU2Z2p6DZptCuQcmUlFyIjg9OHJHX3QaR5lJWAzxZNndDVbVR1XplcZkvoESWuAalWVibrVDB7Y9gFvdtUxxY/s400/Tree.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /> And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.<br /><br /> And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.<br /><br /> And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.<br /><br /> For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.<br /><br /> And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.<br /><br /> And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,<br /><br /> Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.<br /><br /><br /><br />Merry Christmas Everyone!Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-85575610240767238822008-12-24T11:48:00.002-05:002008-12-24T12:46:31.614-05:00Christmas Eve<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBL_01J5qL6gZyjHelRbOe1ZK454UbxUhQ474oLA6SGY0ROLSsKbwiYDupa0aavlkbXjRcanxFIz2K1sSC47h_X3tDOmW1lXZSMzyB4ViV2ReyJy_FnwbnEPUfyLTgSjFt3Jap2K_vszOf/s1600-h/snoopy_dance.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283399753262134818" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 160px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBL_01J5qL6gZyjHelRbOe1ZK454UbxUhQ474oLA6SGY0ROLSsKbwiYDupa0aavlkbXjRcanxFIz2K1sSC47h_X3tDOmW1lXZSMzyB4ViV2ReyJy_FnwbnEPUfyLTgSjFt3Jap2K_vszOf/s400/snoopy_dance.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><p>Like my buddy Snoopy over here, I am doing the happy dance now that my shopping experience (or should I say mission) is finally over. My technique this year left a little to be desired, none the less it's finished. </p><p>I had this great idea the other day to get <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">BHE</span> and Snow White gift certificates to this day spa that advertises on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">tv</span>. It is located on the other side of the world from me, but hey I've got <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">mapquest</span> and the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">internet</span> to lead me there. The only bad thing is that it is somewhere near the newest mall around ... and this place is ginormous. I'm not used to the area and this place is as big as Atlantis.</p><p>Long story short, it took me 25 minutes to drive there, 25 minutes to drive around to try to find the place, and 25 minutes to drive back ... all during my lunch hour. Here's the kicker, I never could find it amongst the 15 million people and cars and stores and more <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">urbania</span> (I don't think that is a word, but I kind of like it) than I can stand anymore. I got so pissed off I just finally left.**Sigh** </p><p>Everything went much better this morning. I headed to Kroger first to pick up some lobster tails and some crab meat for our dinner tonight after our church candlelight service. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">BHE's</span> mother and father and their respective spouses (they all get along after all these years) are coming and Snow White will be there too. She is singing Ave Maria at the service tonight and I have several scripture readings to perform for the service.</p><p>I found <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">BHE</span> a couple of things for her stocking (we're only doing <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">stuffers</span> this year) and I also picked up something that I hope will make her blogging and online experience a bit better. Snow White should benefit too, so I guess it is our family gift this year.</p><p>We are looking forward to a great Christmas Eve celebrating this wonderful season with good friends and family. I hope you all do the same.</p>Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-45958143341976121372008-12-22T10:46:00.004-05:002008-12-22T11:35:28.778-05:00Crunch Time<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCycZcusuZbT2Iq887_GUwSFshp_8WICnl3JBlh6bJwouFjdQpqkXXn6pZR6VEj47tGfgs1XvIkhry2o5QmWMgCr2cFLe-lRl3z01eTbRj7p7v7HqeFhMr95tdVTWBizWgzkET3f3om7E2/s1600-h/6a00d8341c6aff53ef00e54f841ad48834-800wi.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282641487241437346" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 279px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCycZcusuZbT2Iq887_GUwSFshp_8WICnl3JBlh6bJwouFjdQpqkXXn6pZR6VEj47tGfgs1XvIkhry2o5QmWMgCr2cFLe-lRl3z01eTbRj7p7v7HqeFhMr95tdVTWBizWgzkET3f3om7E2/s400/6a00d8341c6aff53ef00e54f841ad48834-800wi.jpg" border="0" /></a>Ok, here we go. It's Monday, three days before Christmas.<br /><br />I still have to shop.<br /><br />I have three projects at work that must be done before the end of the year.<br /><br />Will we ever decorate the tree?<br /><br />Why is it so damn cold here today?<br /><br />I still have to shop (and I don't know what I will be shopping for).<br /><br />I have clients calling me about these three projects that are due before the end of the year.<br /><br />Why am I blogging when I have shopping and work and decorating and work and shopping to do?<br /><br />Man, I need a smoke. Even Santa needed one around this time of year (at least sometime in the past based on this old ad I found).<br /><br />No, I''m just kidding. Yes, I do have to do all these things, but hey, that's what I do. I love to procrastinate as much as possible for some reason. Then it's like I kick into overdrive and get 'er done. It's almost as if I need the adrenaline rush or something ... almost like a mission. It's amazing what manuevers have to be employed to make it happen, especially the shopping part. And it's really not shopping. It is buying. I usually make up mind at the last minute and then I will make the mad dash to the mall or something.<br /><br />Arrive at mall. (with 2,000,564,838 other men)<br /><br />Park at earliest convenience (lot is full, doesn't matter can walk faster without wife)<br /><br />Make eye contact with no one, walk briskly and directly to store, avoiding any vendors at kiosks trying to give you free samples or demonstrations (although one time this really cute little girl caught me and put some stuff on my finger nail that made it smooth and shiny, I think Snow White was with me that time.)<br /><br />Go in store through eye-watering and sinus attack- inducing perfume area. (Why is this? I gag every time. How can you stand all that stuff? What are trying to ...? Well, never mind.)<br /><br />Immediatley thereafter, find gift.<br /><br />Purchase<br /><br />Reverse track<br /><br />Go back to work.<br /><br />Total time: 15 minutes (at warp speed)<br /><br />Maybe one more smoke.Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-77015180313926192412008-12-19T15:11:00.007-05:002008-12-19T15:39:57.893-05:00Seventies ManWay back before the dawn of time for some of you, I was an adolescent preteen growing up in a small mill town in Eastern Va. At the time, this place was the center of my universe. Anywhere else was just somewhere you just didn't want to be. <em>That really has nothing to do with my post here, but that was the mentalilty when I lived there. It may still be that mentality for those who never left.</em><br /><br /><br />Little did I know how much of a different world was out there. Thank goodness for tv. It brought all of the beauty of the outside world to our little neck of the woods even if there were only three channels to choose from. At least there was something to watch back then.<br /><br />At that age it was important to decorate your room with posters of heros or sports players or black light posters and everything else psychodelic held onto from a few years earlier.<br /><br />However, being the male preteen that I was, along with just about every other boy I knew, there came the time to redecorate those posters with ones that, well , lets just say, ones that looked more toward a positive future. We were in lust and we didn't even know it. Like I said, thank goodness for tv. If there were none, I would never have been exposed (I almost typed sexposed) to these worldly beauties.<br /><br /><br />Here are the ones I had in my room.<br /><br /><br />NO! I don't still have them, but somehow found them on line.<br /><br /><br />Some you may remember them. Ahhh, the memories.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYsJzo0oH9Tspzx4J4KvEQzk4qBnNMAIlqNJLHeHyXWSlFbEtT-iBuStbTf6ZKyhljZHiOC83dQ7pTRuyPA505KsZQQerF7YB_hzyeRWncXK8bC8FltcAS0yKkIVRtRQC9LEahmjX0bS-n/s1600-h/lynda-carter01.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281598840946522386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 205px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYsJzo0oH9Tspzx4J4KvEQzk4qBnNMAIlqNJLHeHyXWSlFbEtT-iBuStbTf6ZKyhljZHiOC83dQ7pTRuyPA505KsZQQerF7YB_hzyeRWncXK8bC8FltcAS0yKkIVRtRQC9LEahmjX0bS-n/s400/lynda-carter01.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5f1lwsiEsWXmGIU5ABHrGsvf58Dskt20kEQbYkBcSHKKncn-3aDVq8fCvfA2QLID-WVoOBb-Jdvct37wx9LdoEHqmT2y532dQIq4ybVnxYZn_K7H7Qfk7Med4q_piR3bIJiolqW_0CIyf/s1600-h/farrah+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281598657356338610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 275px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5f1lwsiEsWXmGIU5ABHrGsvf58Dskt20kEQbYkBcSHKKncn-3aDVq8fCvfA2QLID-WVoOBb-Jdvct37wx9LdoEHqmT2y532dQIq4ybVnxYZn_K7H7Qfk7Med4q_piR3bIJiolqW_0CIyf/s400/farrah+2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBQjFcI1ZhOWceRHi3OPYEinZHe7QWDW8Gy_503H9anB29UnJZm-jxkpQqfTWJGqaZHuYKSZWNZdCvelsE60raM_V9uVVdenNATXFUYmKUrMdgJZRRlrufuYNAiLv9dxqXF6BPt8E_FyqR/s1600-h/farrah.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281598545460006034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 286px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBQjFcI1ZhOWceRHi3OPYEinZHe7QWDW8Gy_503H9anB29UnJZm-jxkpQqfTWJGqaZHuYKSZWNZdCvelsE60raM_V9uVVdenNATXFUYmKUrMdgJZRRlrufuYNAiLv9dxqXF6BPt8E_FyqR/s400/farrah.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />A friend of mine gave me the ever immortal poster of Farrah in the swimsuit. I think my mom bought the other two for me. What a great mom?<br /><br />What posters did you have?Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1378256090152879720.post-70504144003219380202008-12-17T12:18:00.001-05:002008-12-17T12:21:41.681-05:00A Lesson for the KidsI know all you mothers will like this. (Did that sound wrong?)<br /><br />Don't mess with mama.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/SyBl5n7Z6E8&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/SyBl5n7Z6E8&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Cool Breezehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07162581642366914196noreply@blogger.com10