tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30140691430196268422024-03-05T21:07:34.107-08:00What 431cruiser Says:sports, outdoor cooking, politics, married life, things you think about on the way to work431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.comBlogger103125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-78938700314523336882017-10-06T14:53:00.001-07:002017-10-06T15:04:40.285-07:00Please ReadIf you have followed my blog, you know that I have a rare disease. My wife and I have traveled all over the country trying to find a cure. Treating my symptoms is all that can be done.<br />
<br />
This situation became further complicated last week. Please click on this <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/wifeleftmewiththis">link </a> and at least follow my story.<br />
<br />
Thank you for any support.<br />
<br />
<br />
431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-4012612469258699262017-07-02T18:05:00.002-07:002017-07-02T18:14:32.561-07:00Democrats: It is Time to Move On<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-BSrOPuFC0ZRT67z-ylqGWeBbqtIH6cLrFKHaVnrF4QhHuRXkeNLkeDcPPaVA0vk-PAul-4IF0QNdzNWNbkkcu0Knp-cOPAteVobAsD1b17lHeAkAahC78pEGoMfxdVA6CC4OaE851DCZ/s1600/Donkey-II.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="484" data-original-width="600" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-BSrOPuFC0ZRT67z-ylqGWeBbqtIH6cLrFKHaVnrF4QhHuRXkeNLkeDcPPaVA0vk-PAul-4IF0QNdzNWNbkkcu0Knp-cOPAteVobAsD1b17lHeAkAahC78pEGoMfxdVA6CC4OaE851DCZ/s320/Donkey-II.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Our country is going to hell faster than the Democrats lost the election. The people who are protesting in the streets and demanding Trump's impeachment are as far removed from the <i>reasons</i> they state for this process as the DNC is in getting over their lack of preparedness in winning the election. The American people made a choice in the Democracy in which we live, and now it is WAY past time for the Democratic party, the people in the streets, celebrities, and the mass news organizations to get over their loss and get back to work.<br />
<br />
As taxpayers, we should all be able to agree that the Russian-Trump collusion has been beaten to death. Our dollars are being wasted as the DNC blocks every item that President Trump and his staff has attempted to address. He is the first President that I can remember who apparently is using his campaign platform as a "To Do" list. One by one, he is trying to improve every item in which he said he would. He was elected because of his platform. He was not taken seriously. Voters were not taken seriously. Now, President Trump is not being treated fairly by the media and is being rejected by the DNC on every issue. Most importantly, as President of the United States, he is being openly and blatantly disrespected by news anchors, reporters, and celebrities.<br />
<br />
As Americans, we should not allow anyone to disrespect our country or its leadership. If we do not like the leadership at any level, we have the power of the vote. Can you imagine what would happen if Saturday Night Live, Madonna, and all of the media outlets had slandered, mocked, criticized, and walled Obama's every move every day of every week? <br />
<br />
First, they would have been afraid to do these things because of the racial fallout that would have occurred - and it would have regardless if the statements, skits, and constant rhetoric were accurate or not. Programs such as the NAACP and other organizations do not instigate havoc and publicity because of wrongdoing, but because of color. And, nobody on TV wants to jeopardize their career. Still, a President of the United States, regardless of color, should be treated with respect. If he does something wrong, illegal, immoral, then impeach him as Clinton was.<br />
<br />
President Trump genuinely is trying to Make America Great Again. If we take the time to look beyond his businessman temperament and look into his heart when he talks about our military, our unemployed skilled workers, and the security of our country, his passion to fulfill his pledge is clear.<br />
<br />
So get over it people. We get to vote again in four years. In the meantime, we need to get our hearts right with God, get out of the streets and act like adults and role models for our children, and restore our American culture. <br />
431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-22739755034753223592017-02-25T11:38:00.001-08:002017-02-25T11:38:04.620-08:00Happy Saturday, DNC!It must really suck to have to travel to a meeting on a beautiful, mild Saturday to draw straws on who will be the one to piss off the American people MORE than they have been over the last 8 years. <br />
<br />
Donald Trump is doing what is "best" for our country in trying to keeping us safe, create jobs, and increase pay for others. In less than a few weeks in office, he gave our troops an income and housing living income increase. I spoke to a young Marine who is a member of our church a few weeks ago. He was so excited to see that happen as quickly as it did. In fact, I was unaware it had happened until Jon told me. That is how fast and how hard billionaire Donald Trump is working for us. I saw a real-life example of how a young Marine that I know personally appreciated the extra $100. Why didn't Obama do this?<br />
<br />
I can already imagine the cartoon in tomorrow's newspaper... a big hand, holding some straws with Democrat Party names. Short straw wins. Congratulations. By the time you get into office, Donald Trump will have already done all the hard work with immigration, jobs, the border patrol, and taking a bunch of punches on the chin for his stance on immigration. Through all of this, he did it for us. This man didn't need this job. How many billionaires do you know that care so deeply for our country?<br />
<br />
So when the one who draws the shortest straw takes the chair, do not screw up the path that Donald Trump has already carved for you. Use it and continue to help our country.<br />
<br />
I have a sign in my office that states:<br />
<br />
"Risk. To avoid it is to go nowhere. To embrace it is to carve a new path."<br />
<br />
Donald Trump is carving a new path. Follow it. Don't cover it up and revert back to the last 8 years of stagnancy. 431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-60966297094665340382017-01-29T14:02:00.001-08:002017-01-29T14:02:47.179-08:00Wake Up, People!It continues to amaze me just how many people are out of touch with what Obama did to our nation during his tenure. He spent so much time and money taking care of other nations and being careful not to step on their toes, that he completely lost his focus on the United States.<br />
<br />
Nobody protested and burned down buildings, camped out at airports, or did we even see women marching when our troops were being beheaded on national television, jobs were being lost, the real estate market tanked for eight years, or he allowed people to freely enter the U.S. without proper verification of who they were.<br />
<br />
When Bush was in office, he said after 9/11, "Never again on our soil." How many people were killed or injured in terrorist attacks on our soil the last eight years? Now, we have a President who genuinely cares about our jobs, our safety, and the country, and you people are protesting? Hollywood is mocking him? Some news channels are only broadcasting a "loop" of the negatives in an attempt to magnify and undermine what Trump is doing.<br />
<br />
Just what is he doing? He is trying to put America first. You should be great fun and proud right this very moment. <br />
<br />
Twelve years ago I went on a cruise to Mexico. We were greeted at Customs by Mexican soldiers with machine guns. They were protecting their country. When the cruise returned to the U.S., we simply departed the ship, grabbed our bags and left. There wasn't a presence of "fear" for anyone who may be trying to enter the US as there was when we entered Mexico. There wasn't a Border Patrol television series back then, and protecting our borders was rarely mentioned because terrorism wasn't as much a threat then as it is now. However, I found it interesting how serious the Mexican authorities took a cruiseline of tourist entering their country and how the return trip was like stepping off a plane.<br />
<br />
Actions being taken now are for our children's futures- be proud, be supportive, and get out of the way or leave if you don't want this for your children. To put it in perspective, I saw a news segment this morning of a man who had sold his home and quit his job, hopped on a plane and came to America only to be detained at Lagardia and returned. The media was portraying him as a victim, but what does this really say about this gentleman? It says that foreigners feel like there is some form of entitlement in which they can just move in without following the proper steps and doing it legally.<br />
<br />
That is how terrorist arrive, people. This isn't a ban on religions; it is the law. What would happen if the opposite occurred and you landed on Iranian soil? You would be accused of espionage and arrested. So how was this entitlement born? Obama allowed it just as he allowed small protests to become larger, more frequent and more dangerous ones.<br />
<br />
Wake up, people. We can coexist, but we must follow the laws and do it the right way. Let our troops come home and help border patrol while the remaining ones take a well deserved vacation. They have earned it; Obama didn't.431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-3995475527884047412017-01-21T09:39:00.001-08:002017-01-21T09:39:19.142-08:00Dear Hollywood, Protesters of All Races and Sexes, and Others:The election is over - get over your disappointment that Hillary did not win. Your protests yesterday, marches today, and SNL jokes are not going to change anything.<br />
<br />
From the beginning, Donald Trump has talked about securing our country, creating jobs, and uniting our country. If any of you are opposed to that, then that means you do not care about 9/11, your spouses' - or more importantly - your kids' futures, nor One Nation Under God. <br />
<br />
Your actions can be summarized that simply. <br />
<br />
Hollywood, you are an elite group of billionaires who throw parties for yourselves in the form of the Oscars, Golden Globe, etc, and use television airtime to rub in the average American's face. I, personally, would rather watch the program that your television time and money trumped. <br />
<br />
Protestors, where were you when the economy crashed in 2008? The loss of jobs led to the crash in the real estate market - many becoming homeless, having bad credit, and families torn apart. Where were you then, and any time before now? This occurred under Obama's watch. Perhaps you are concerned you will get jobs not have time to protest.<br />
<br />
NAACP, it saddened me greatly to see some of your representatives throw Steve Harvey under the bus for meeting with Trump. You stuck one of your own in the back, which seems to be okay in black America where you give black on black killings no attention. <br />
<br />
Furthermore, what gives you the right to call someone a racist when you have your own organizations that exclude white people? The NAACP, BET, The Black Panthers, National Association of Black Accountants, African American Planning Commission, Black Wall Street Merchants Association, and even these: National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators and Developers, and National Association of Black Storytellers. I have only listed of few of the hundreds of organizations that you have created exclusively for African Americans. If white people created these same organizations and used the word "White" where applicable, the Rainbow PUSH Coalition would be onsite immediately citing racism, elitist groups. <br />
<br />
You are on the news daily protesting a criminal being shot by police, discrimination, etc, but are not publicly nor nationally visible where black on black crimes occur in areas such as Chicago where hundreds of people are shot weekly. Please route one of your marches through Chicago and help get your people out of harm's way onto a path of prosperity.<br />
<br />
Alec Baldwin, Seth Myers, your jokes are not funny. Alec, perhaps Seth can use some of your baggage for his jokes since your history offers much and Seth seems to be out of material. Seth, you do realize you are no longer on SNL, right?<br />
<br />
America, like it or not, Donald Trump is our President. You may not respect him, but you should respect the office. This is the first President we have had in modern times who seems to be sincere when he speaks about restoring prosperity, safety, unity, and American presence. His focus is on us and we should be happy for that. He says what he thinks and doesn't speak for thirty minutes only to leave us wondering what he said. <br />
<br />
If you remove your emotions, your race, and your disappointments, you will see that he is more like an average person who quarterbacks from the couch than like a politician or lawyer as we usually see. We, too, have said things we regret, but probably long before we considered being president. We, too, have questioned or second-guessed taxes, the economy. I personally questioned why Obama announced the exact day that troops would be removed from Iraq. Did you notice how there was peace after that, only for Iraq to be flooded with insurgents after we left? To give the other team your plans is completely irresponsible. Most of all, don't you think it is time for our government to take care of OUR COUNTRY instead of all of the others..places we will never be able to go? <br />
<br />
In closing, give him a chance. Most of all, show respect for the office if you cannot for your new President.431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-37526396297712323932016-11-05T14:31:00.001-07:002016-11-05T14:31:45.067-07:00It is Time for Change - Please Vote ResponsiblyThis week, President Obama said, "Everything we've done is so that we can pass the baton to someone who believes in the same things I do."<br />
<br />
That is the long version of what we often hear, "Hillary as president will be like 4 more years of Obama," or "We cannot afford to have four more years of the same." So when you hear this, you should know that is EXACTLY what Democrats and Obama, specifically, have in mind. He has his own agenda and is essentially training her up to carry on with his legacy of screw ups - those in which we are aware and those that are in the pipeline now which we are unaware. In addition, he has done all of this campaigning for her at our expense (we pay for the jet maintenance and fuel through taxes) and when he should be managing our country. Why risk the leadership of our country with unjustified flights and speaking engagements?<br />
<br />
Without a change from time to time, things become stagnant. In government, they become corrupt. With all of the evidence of pay for play, lies to higher authorities, and forcing associates to plead the Fifth - just to name a few - how can anyone vote for Hillary Clinton? How can she get a single vote? Has our society seen, acted and lived in such a corrupt environment for so long that we no longer care about truth and accountability?<br />
<br />
If so, do we no longer care about jobs, housing, taxes, our government playing big brother on us? Does it not raise suspicion and make you ask "Why?" when Hillary smashed numerous cellphones and tablets with a hammer? Why would a person have 7 to 10 of these? <br />
<br />
Trump is not a perfect candidate - nobody is. Unfortunately, we do not have an honorable person this time; a Reagan, for example. But like Reagan, Trump is NOT a politician. He sees things the way we see them and not through a donor's million dollar glasses in exchange for a favor. No one can deny his sincere concern and care for our country's future. <br />
<br />
Please vote this week and please prayerfully vote for the right candidate. Our country is suffering. If you don't believe me, think of your hometown or a small town nearby. Do you see many vacate commercial buildings? Has new construction slowed or stopped? Do you see many homes for sale or in foreclosure? These things are happening in my hometown. We are almost a ghost town after being a thriving, growing yet quiet little vacation place only 8 years ago. Think about how many towns across our country could say the same thing and then think about how many people that possibly affects.<br />
<br />
When a football team hires a new coach, a change of assistants, athletic directors, and other personnel usually follows so that all of the old school ideology is out, the slate is wiped clean, and a fresh start can begin. My friends, this is what we need now. Is it a gamble? Possibly, but remember, the President has the House and Senate to keep him from being a dictator or totally screwing up.<br />
<br />
So, do you want a businessman who is willing to take a pay cut so he can try to grow our country to be our leader, or do you want a politician who has accepted money from countries who house and train terrorists, and was careless with classified information (or did she share it intentionally under the guise of a non-secured server?) to be our leader?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-62650189537378799702016-10-05T07:53:00.001-07:002016-10-05T07:53:15.573-07:00Congratulations ESPN FayettevilleI read <a href="http://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/ncaafb/espn-fayetteville-wont-air-ecu-due-to-protest/ar-BBwZjNN?li=BBnb7Kz">here</a> about ESPN's decision to keep a football game off of the air due to the band's behavior and failure to play the National Anthem. This is the greatest move made yet to teach these selfish people that football is not about them.<br />
<br />
Colin Kaepernick began taking a knee when he had to take the bench for failure to perform. It was just coincidental that someone associated it with "injustice" and associated it with some verse of the Nathional Anthem that nobody has sang in 100's of years. If one looks back over the last couple of years, CK has been in a downward spiral in his personal life and career, and what he is really protesting is his lack of playing time. You see, he did not feel like he was in bondage when he was a starter. Review the old film and see for yourself - he stood for every anthem. If he wants to use his platform for something great, to truly shed light on some injustice, to make a difference, he could stand on a corner in Chicago with a megaphone and plead with his own race to stop killing each other. He could cut his hair and look presentable and like someone that you would want your daughter to bring home. He could use his money to remove some of the nasty tattoos that he so enjoys. <br />
<br />
Instead, as blacks often do, their failure to perform, to deliver, to succeed, results in the educational bar being lowered to reach their efforts (not ability), a break-out of their own cliques such as the Black Caucus, Black Social Workers Union, BET television, the black panthers, the Association of Black Psychologists, NAACP, the African American Planning Commission, National Association of Black Journalists, the UNCF and so many, many others, and extra time in the lime light. Every Sunday is spent talking about Kaepernick instead of the men and women in uniform, or about Jesus Christ. However, white people are racist as they co-exist with people of all nationalities, and generations of both races are supposed to owe each other something although neither was around during those horrible years of slavery.<br />
<br />
Suppose the word "White" was used in front of all of these committees and organizations where the word "Black" or "Colored" belongs? The race war that everyone seems to be working towards would be in progress. Just flashback a month or so ago at the comments and innuendos during the last Grammy or Emmy or Whatever Awards. Because of the effort of many black artists to be foul-speaking rappers instead of true artists, such as Will Smith, something is wrong with the movie awards. Give me a break people.<br />
<br />
And stop burning down your town when something does not go your way - you are only hurting yourself. Allow an investigation to occur, stop crying victim, and be something. For example, you destroyed Charlotte after a black man was killed by a black officer. Was that officer being racist? Nope. You just heard that a cop shot a black person and began to flood the streets and destroy your town. Did you ever stop to think what kind of impact that would have on tourism when the Minnesota Vikings came to Charlotte last Sunday? Of course you did not. What kind of memories do you think you impressed upon those who did travel from Minnesota? I can tell you that is was not one of Charlotte being a racist community because those read the whole story before deciding to travel. Instead, you left an impression of a community who does not care about their property, other people's property, or other people's lives. The investigation proved that the officer had a right to defend himself.<br />
<br />
Instead of rushing to judgement, how about rushing home to your kids and teaching them right from wrong. Change your family tree- I had to change mine. And, while you take a knee during our country's National Anthem, where many lives were lost so that people like Kaepernick could be a millionaire and not have to produce, say a prayer. 431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-31993762086761893562016-07-22T13:50:00.003-07:002016-07-22T13:50:36.383-07:00Interesting ArticlesDisregard the URL, read the articles.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mittromneyblows.com/"></a>431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-30048093181531863932016-07-08T21:38:00.002-07:002016-07-08T21:38:56.072-07:00All Lives MatterAt a time when we should be celebrating our nation’s independence, our nation is mourning its shame, its hatred, and the lives lost as a result of the actions of our own. At a time in our lives when terrorism is a word that children have had to understand, this week we terrorized ourselves. When will it stop? How can we defend our country against evil and protect our own backs at the same time?<br />
<br />
You see, that seems to be where we are moving – to a time when we cannot turn our backs towards one another for fear of being harmed. What logic in what planet and in whose mind thinks that killing the innocent ones protecting us in Dallas justifies, rectifies, indemnifies an innocent life lost in another state? This logic does not even equate to the “an eye for an eye” laws of the old lands.<br />
<br />
Why is the first part of the story, the root cause that sets everything in motion, always overlooked; unstated, unquestioned when relatives stand in front of a microphone and tell the story but beginning in the middle of the book? It is omitted from the crazy ass “logic” people use when they think that they can resist arrest, burn down their own towns, try to run over police officers, act upon their prejudices, portray racism or cry racism, and then dare to be held accountable.<br />
<br />
How is it that only white people are racist when organizations such as the Black Caucus, Black Social Workers Union, BET television, the black panthers, the Association of Black Psychologists, NAACP, the African American Planning Commission, National Association of Black Journalists, the UNCF and so many, many others exist? Suppose the word “White” was used in front of all of these committees and organizations where the word “Black” or “Colored” belongs? The race war that everyone seems to be working towards would be in progress. Just flashback a month or so ago at the comments and innuendos during the last Grammy or Emmy or Whatever Awards.<br />
<br />
Is there really such a thing as a “peaceful protest”? The video clips I have seen have depicted words of hatred, shown people with baseball bats in their arms, and members of the black panthers with their arms in the air. Do these behaviors promote peace or do they incentivize anger in young black or white men? Black and white people alike march in these protests, often holding hands and with both colors carrying signs. The media does not show much of this. Would the Dallas killings have been avoided if the media did not show the bad cops killing the two young men this week? Awareness is a great thing, but unharnessed can be dangerous.<br />
<br />
Our Presidential Nominees have their slogans, such “Let’s Make America Great Again,” and whatever Clinton’s is. I suggest that we make America America again. We cannot build bridges to join the racial gaps if groups of people – bad cops or bad people – are destroying the foundation as quickly as it is laid down. We are living in a time when we need to stand together in unity so that we can defend our nation from the evilness of other nations that WILL BE coming to our homeland just as it is said in the Bible. Are we going to self destruct and make it easier for Satan’s army?<br />
<br />
Black Lives Matter (BLM)<br />
<br />
How about we change that to ALM or simply LM?<br />
<br />
All Lives Matter.431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-53614231109261601182016-04-21T08:52:00.002-07:002016-04-21T14:53:46.616-07:00One Blade of Grass<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9R_nUV0G8rextWMdZV36rYUVVAjsn1c6arqJbYVgs7to3fqZsbqWwlgS8XPRBY4YMzCeUIBKGrWAvgPs4q6MNRHWCJRSUIGcMt3EZpDiWJyFHeSfzTAocHNmPPDiX240mRwxYjaejuoc5/s1600/grass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9R_nUV0G8rextWMdZV36rYUVVAjsn1c6arqJbYVgs7to3fqZsbqWwlgS8XPRBY4YMzCeUIBKGrWAvgPs4q6MNRHWCJRSUIGcMt3EZpDiWJyFHeSfzTAocHNmPPDiX240mRwxYjaejuoc5/s320/grass.jpg" /></a></div>Like hunting for a needle in a haystack, what is it that makes a dog have to hunt that one specific blade of grass before he can do his business? When I have not been to the toilet in awhile, I will take the first available - regardless of what building I am in or near. If I am in the woods hunting and get the urge, <i>*poof*</i>, there is a good spot (as long as it is not in front of a trail camera).<br />
<br />
But, my little morkie does not share the same sentiment. He is peculiar, gets distracted easily, and then once he has regained his focus, he is back to being peculiar. He may have held that little nugget until the muscles of his rear end have cramped, but he is not letting go until he finds that one special blade of grass. Earlier, it was 30 feet from where it was yesterday. Tomorrow, it may not even exist in our yard. For that one blade of grass is elusive, or so it would appear, based on the bulging of Elvis's eyes and the puckering of his rectum, both visible from my view on the other end of a tautly pulled leash. Frantically, he searches for it, so it is not completely his fault - he does put forth quite a bit of effort. But, still, he searches deeply and methodically into the grass, which often reminds me of that time I lost a contact lens while hunting.<br />
<br />
"It's just a turd, push it out, and let's get back inside," I often tell him, not that it helps. But, to me, I feel like I am encouraging him and so maybe it does. Otherwise, we may spend days out there, still searching...for that one blade of grass that in a dog's eyes reads, <i>Bathroom</i>.<br />
<br />
As humans, we have heard the cliche about the grass being greener on the other side of the fence when contemplating a career change, or knowing someone who is. I guess for our little furry friends, they have their version of greener grass. Somehow, there is one blade among the thousands that is greener than the rest. <br />
<br />
Apparently, the little fellow can read minds as well; he is now ringing a bell which indicates it is time to go search again. I hope we find that blade of grass close to the sidewalk this time; I am very tired today.431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-34375253952522389322016-03-04T17:29:00.002-08:002016-04-22T11:27:54.592-07:00Our 6 Best out of 300 Million People....Scary<a href="http://www.mittromneyblows.com">www.mittromneyblows.com</a>431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-37483946760752384432016-01-09T22:27:00.003-08:002016-01-13T07:59:10.186-08:00Tonight I Was Reminded of Why I Quit Watching Pro FootballThe city and fans of Cincinnati should be ashamed of themselves for allowing a football team, coaching staff, and fan base to behave as it did tonight. I tuned in to watch AJ McCarron, AJ Green, and a few other SEC players, likely future stars, and the current stars, such as Big Ben. People who play with heart and for the love of the game; who get back on the field after being injured. People like McCarron who was making the most out of his third start and only getting this big stage because the true starter, Andy Dalton, was injured.<br />
<br />
Instead, I was reminded why I stopped watching professional sports: many of these guys are overly paid to induce violence. Anyone who can be seen on the sideline smiling while their team is losing is not a competitor. This can be see any week in the NFL. Perhaps it is that smile instead of passion and competitiveness that is the reason one's team is losing. Losing is supposed to hurt - not be something for which you smile.<br />
<br />
What Vontaze Burfict did in the last offensive play by the Steelers should be reviewed by league officials and he should be barred from the game. That was nothing short of assault, of cheapness, and savagery, and had his intentions been successful, another player would have been severely injured. Severely. Watch the replay. <br />
<br />
So, Burflict and Jones, you can sleep tonight, or party, or go get another tattoo or whatever it is you like to do, but do it knowing you cost your team a rare...a RARE...chance to advance in the playoffs. You cost a rookie QB who is only playing because the starter is injured, and second-year WR Green, and the others who hustled and blocked, what was a great comeback drive. <br />
<br />
Burflict should have been benched early in the game as anyone could see he was eventually going to be a detriment to his team. I guess winning at any cost is acceptable to Marvin Lewis, so he rolled the dice. I hope they roll in your favor when your contract is reviewed. While I understand that winning is important, you have a sideline of capable people to replace that one individual. If your team relies on one person to win, you are in trouble. <br />
<br />
How about trying to win one the way AJ and AJ did? Or with courage as Big Ben did? How about with focus as the kickers had to do in those conditions? How about with patience as a stadium full of wet fans sat waiting for an outcome? With actions such as seen tonight by the NFL, the fights of the NHL, and fake violence and real attempt at sexiness of the WWE, video games such as Grand Theft Auto, and less and less authoritative involvement by two-parent households, it is no wonder our world is going to hell and the future is dimmer.<br />
<br />
To those fans who cheered and threw things while Big Ben was being carted off: I hope someone posts your actions on Facebook. If they will send them to me, I'll post them on the three blogs I own.<br />
<br />
To the owners and management of the Bengals: Does your coach not have control of his team? Disregard, I know the answer to that one. You had must have held your heads down in shame throughout much of this game. You could not see the field for the rain, and between clouds you saw people on your payroll act uncivilized. And when you closed your eyes to pray for a chance at victory, you heard your fans cheering a hurt player. The next time you are writing million-dollar checks to these players, please send me one for a couple hundred thousand. You see, I am permanently on the IR list and need help with my bills. Before that, I was busting my ass at a 9 to 5 job for a few hundred bucks a week. I did it with pride, compassion, and competitiveness and did not have to put a hand on anyone.<br />
<br />
To Tomlin: where is the leadership and control of your COACHES? More than a couple of times were they involved in the game - the last one being on the field in the midst of Bengal players when the last flag was thrown.<br />
<br />
To AJ and AJ and the other young men on the Bengals' team: Ask to be traded. The playoffs are not worth being associated with these kinds of people. Besides, look at the Bengal's history in the playoffs. I realize this is your greatest chance to start, but please do not let this override your dignity. <br />
<br />
I am sure that McCarron was exposed to more discipline, professionalism, and self-control when playing under Saban than he is seeing in the NFL. <br />
<br />
Any 9 to 5 employee would play professional sports for their current salary and play like hell to win. These over-paid thugs, some with hair that hides their names on their jerseys, that predominantly make up the NFL are not deserving of the money they get and most will file bankruptcy before they are 40 years old.<br />
<br />
Sorry AJ and AJ. I wanted you to win since you were in the light.<br />
<br />
Ben, you have overcome more than a shoulder injury and I hope to see on the field next week. It is through hard, honest work that one is successful (wins, in your case) and that is why you won tonight. Congratulations.431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-81421581023489660952016-01-09T13:43:00.003-08:002016-01-09T13:43:46.881-08:00How I Let My Dog Down......Jack is a 14 year old lab with a young heart. He thinks he's a puppy despite his slow moving joints. All he wants is to sit in your lap; he does not care much for running and retrieving. He is just a friend. Though he lives in a large fenced backyard, he gets plenty of attention. On the rare cold nights in the southeast, he and our terrior, December, have a heater to keep them warm inside their insulated dog houses. A lit floodlight keeps Jack secure and calms his seemingly fear of the dark.<br />
<br />
We have struggled in recent months as to handle Jack's debilitating health. You see, he is almost completely blind. We have to be within 10-12' feet of him for him to know where we are standing when we talk to him. Until then, he looks around, confused. Once he identifies our location, however, he wags his tail and security overcomes that unsettled look in his face. We have had to feed him canned food by hand to ensure that he gets proper nutrition.<br />
<br />
Although December is a few years younger than he, she is the dominant one. She is also the mischievous one as she climbs the fence and/or digs underneath it. Jack barks for her when she is away; he barks for her when she will not play. As I said, Jack is still a puppy in his heart and mind. Yet, December is more of a serious personality and plays on her own terms.<br />
<br />
This week, December met us in the front yard when we got home. Like before, we opened the gate and put her in the backyard. Unlike before, we failed to close it completely. The next day, December left again - probably going underneath the fence. It was a windy day, and the gate was blown open since it wasn't properly latched, so she might have just walked right out of the gate. In trying to be at her side as always, Jack did. <br />
<br />
He left through the gate that we left open. I have looked for him for several days as have our neighbors and Facebook friends in the surrounding area. Unfortunately, we have not found him. In all of the years of keeping the heater on when it was cold, the floodlights on because he didn't like the dark, and putting him on the screened porch when neighbors were playing with fireworks because he didn't like the noise, we let Jack down this week by forgetting to latch the gate.<br />
<br />
It has rained several times since he has been gone, so I do not know if he can find his way back with his nose. God, if Jack cannot find his way back, please do not let him suffer. We let Jack down; please lift him up.431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-88368297022274646252015-12-15T17:35:00.002-08:002016-04-21T14:47:54.879-07:00Kicking the POT(S)Four years into my bout with Hyperadrenergic Postural Othostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (Hyperadrenergic POTS), I still find myself on some days trying to cope. I have somewhat made peace with the idea that there isn't a cure, but struggle with the idea of just treating the symptoms since I am a "root cause" kind of person (type A, I know). My symptoms are all over the place. I have a better chance of chasing down my little Morkie who loves to steal my glasses than I do keeping all of my symptoms under control. One or another of them always interjects itself into my day or night. <br />
<br />
The hardest part that I am sure anyone who lives with a chronic illness will say is adjusting to the "new" you. Learning the boundaries or limitations, telling people where you are going and when you will return, <i>asking for help</i>; the new me. The expression commonly said by our parents or grandparents about getting too old to do the things they once did becomes reality a little too early in life for those with chronic illness. To know the struggles that I currently have and have had for four years is one thing, but to realize that I haven't reached "old" yet makes looking forward a little dim.<br />
<br />
One thing is for certain, however. We can adapt to our disabilities and keep doing the things we always enjoyed using those adaptations, or we can sit on the couch. I chose a long time ago to adapt. Now, I just need to get my body to play along. <br />
<br />
431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-80499333619101170602015-11-01T14:41:00.002-08:002015-11-01T14:49:46.153-08:00The Poll System and Mike Leech - Two Collegiate Travesties for 2015Mike Leech may have a great mind when it comes to the offensive side of football, but he is a bozo when it comes to the fundamental parts, such as winning. With the ball in WSU's hand on the Stanford side of the 50 yard line, the lead, and four minutes remaining, he still had his team in "hurry up" mode and snapping the ball with 25 seconds left on the play clock. They even through a couple of passes, one which was incomplete and saved Stanford a timeout, and another which was a costly interception.<br />
<br />
Even after failing to work the game clock and giving up the late interception, WSU still managed to hold Stanford to a field goal. Needing a field goal of their own, WSU's quarterback connected on a deep post route which put them in field goal position with a minute or so remaining. During this drive, on a third and short - real short, about a football's length - Leech still had his offense in shotgun formation with the running back about 8 yards from the line of scrimmage. He was stopped for a loss on the hand off which lead to the need of the amazing fourth down conversion by WSU's tough ass quarterback. Why not line up under center and do a sneak on third instead of putting that much pressure on your quarterback and offensive line, Mike Leech? <br />
<br />
In the end, WSU's kicker, who was 5-5 on the night, unfortunately missed the winning field goal attempt. It should have never come down to needing a 43 yard field goal in the rain with time expiring. The "hurry up" mode should have downshifted a few gears at the four minute mark, allowing them to claim only their second win since 1941 against an AP Top 10 school. <br />
<br />
Mike Leech, Gus Malzaln, and these other coaches who think they have an advantage in this fast-break type of football are only showing that they are not teachers of the game, not teachers of a winning strategy or fundamental football with clock management (which translates to time management when 95% of the players enter the workforce), but promoters of a strategy akin to today's societal behaviors where people take advantage of others and are not held responsible for their own failures. These kids will only attend college and play football once, and many of them will have their seasons shortened due to injury. These coaches of this kind exploit the talents of these kids and risk injury to them in an effort to glorify their coaching careers - to better their careers. <br />
<br />
Do you think Mike Leech wants to remain at WSU? Do you think Gus Malzaln can chew his gum any faster? Maybe one of the silly signs being held up on Auburn's sideline should be a reminder to him to close his mouth while chewing. Even better, maybe an opposing team will hold a sign up on their sideline to remind him. <br />
<br />
WSU did everything their coach asked of them last night. They let him live out his fantasy of fast-paced football through their pain, mistakes, and unsafe playing conditions. After loosing a 12-point lead, they battled back to go ahead by one. These young men did their jobs and played with heart. Mike Leech let them down. A good coach, such as David Shaw on the other sideline, would laugh at his method. The TV commentators did laugh. <br />
<br />
With decisions such as Leech's, and this year's horrid pre-season polls that ultimately impact all teams for the rankings that will be released this week, a true NCAA Football champion will never be known. One will be crowned, sure, but the efforts of WSU, Memphis, Temple, Iowa, and others prove that the ranking system is nothing more than a lottery. Those at the top, get a chance to play while the others get to watch - just as Leech watched his team leave their hearts on the field last night in defeat because of his carefree coaching style.431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-51906159775121341252015-10-12T18:10:00.001-07:002015-10-12T18:10:22.586-07:00Big Day Tomorrow....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfy35WHv99VjIwyDYcI3z69XLefJhFWyagJu4i_1f-VzM6hAP05HQmOTYHjaiTiYEOWGlyKg9L9k5VKTqKaxnQHDOKZbRjaS4DejazJiFuAM7uZ2h-arULRN0HvKiQpgiCM158dzkWzmMh/s1600/port.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfy35WHv99VjIwyDYcI3z69XLefJhFWyagJu4i_1f-VzM6hAP05HQmOTYHjaiTiYEOWGlyKg9L9k5VKTqKaxnQHDOKZbRjaS4DejazJiFuAM7uZ2h-arULRN0HvKiQpgiCM158dzkWzmMh/s320/port.jpg" /></a></div>After a year of kicking the idea around, my doc is inserting a port tomorrow to help me with several challenges that I have daily. While I am a little nervous about this, I know that God will oversee this and take care of me. This little procedure can be a big help to my daily living and, hopefully, keep me out of the hospital for awhile. 431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-30371539217586729672015-10-05T14:39:00.003-07:002015-10-05T15:28:25.873-07:00Property Matrix - The Most Efficient Employee in Your OfficeIf you own or manage multiple properties of any kind, Property Matrix is a must-have software that will help you with your daily tasks while also promoting your properties. With Property Matrix, a property manager can view one unit, multiple units, and even units at multiple locations using your mobile phone, iPad, or computer and internet connection. The software allows a person to see all of the details necessary for any unit in your database of properties. This includes vacancies, invoicing, necessary maintenance, and ensuring vendors are paid.<br />
<br />
In addition,Property Matrix can be used to create multiple online ads that promote the available properties, allowing prospective tenants to find a home that fits their needs and then submit their applications online. The ads are quickly posted with just one click of a mouse and are submitted to multiple online resources, thus, making Property Matrix a marketing machine. Other features of this property management software are that rental payments and lease agreements can be handled electronically and securely. <br />
<br />
As applications are received electronically through Property Matrix, each tenant is screened to ensure the best applicant takes occupancy over each vacancy available. <a href="https://www.propertymatrix.com/articles/tenant-screening/tenant-background-check"> Background screening</a> of tenants is the most important part of narrowing down the pool of applicants. After all, the purpose of owning investment properties is to maintain a stream of income. <br />
<br />
For more information about this time saving and problem solving software, please visit <a href="https://www.propertymatrix.com">www.propertymatrix.com</a>.<br />
431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-13325496848267997742015-09-11T15:00:00.002-07:002015-11-01T15:01:46.895-08:00The DonaldDonald Trump has announced many times in the past that he was running for the top office, only to back out later. This year, he seems to be all-in as long as he continues to get the attention and the high rating for the GOP nomination. If the truth were known, I think that he has probably surprised himself as being the forerunner, especially given all of the toes that he has stepped on - make that, crushed. But that is Donald Trump, so why does the media seemed so surprised when he hurls one of his rocks? I think they are surprised because he is able to do that and still maintain a lead.<br />
<br />
While he is certainly more wealthy than the average citizen that will be voting, Trump is representing all Americans at this particular moment who are ready for change. Do most politicians take him seriously? No. Will he be our next President? No. But right now, he is using the platform to state all the things that you and I would like to say if we had a voice.<br />
<br />
Do we need a wall with a big beautiful door at the Mexican border? Absolutely. Is Obamacare creating a lot of trouble for employers, doctors, and patients? Yes. That is why we had to begin filling out forms at the doctor's office which we have been going to the last 20 years. Are there problems with security? Yes. Is Rosie... well, I won't go there.<br />
<br />
Trump is saying things that need to be said, and stepping over, through, or around the hurdles to get the issues on the table. While I do not appreciate the disrepectful, childish-type comments he has made with his name-calling, etc, I do appreciate his stating the hard truths about the condition of our country. More than anything else right now, we need to protect our borders and, then, build jobs while regaining the leadership in technology, trade, military, and the value of a dollar.<br />
<br />
A simple person like myself would never be heard. While he may not be elected, even by me, his voice is definitely being heard and I appreciate that, Donald Trump.431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-14567451888936141032015-08-25T16:21:00.001-07:002016-04-24T05:20:12.442-07:00Dear IRS......Please have your people consult with their co-workers before writing and mailing letters. I am a believer of too much government in the sense that the left hand does not know what the right hand is doing. In your case, it is a matter of Austin, TX, not knowing what Memphis, TN, is doing. Below is an abbreviated version of the work your teammates did this week:<br />
<br />
Letter sent via USPS dated 8/13/15 and from Memphis, TN: "Thank you for making payment arrangements to resolve your account...." This letter weighed about a pound and must have cost you (or actually us, the taxpayers) a fortune to mail. Why does a thank you note have to weigh a freaking pound? But, I am honored that it meant that much to you.<br />
<br />
Letter sent via CERTIFIED mail dated 8/17/15 and from Memphis, TN: "Notice of intent to seize...." (Note that this letter was sent after the "thank you" letter on 8/13/15.)<br />
<br />
Letter sent via USPS dated 8/19/15 and from Austin, TX: "Thank you for using the IRS online services. If you did not, contact us at..." This is kind of a thank you and that is taken back. Or like when someone says, "I'm sorry, but.."<br />
<br />
So to quickly audit your efforts of the last few days, you spent time, paper, and money...let's say my neighbor's money, to make it simple and real...on three letters, one weighing a pound. The first letter said thanks for the payment, the second one threatened to seize assets if we didn't pay, and the third, which came from the idiot who sent the second one, was a thank you for using your online services. <br />
<br />
Wouldn't it had been easier and more economical to just have your online service operate in reverse and send a thank you note or confirmation as soon as the payment was made, thus, eliminating the first two letters, of which, one was an unnecessary, untimely, and unacceptable threat? You know, kind of like Amazon, eBay, PayPal, Sears, Walmart, Target, my little website, and every other e-commerce site does? I would even bet that eHarmony, a dating advertisement I just saw on television, sends an immediate response electronically. And, having transactions with you IS kind of like dating...except you go directly for the screwing.<br />
<br />
You sent three letters in less than a week, with the last one being managed by someone who must have been following Donald Trump's fiasco with Megyn Kelly and lost track of time. If the people of this great country cannot trust your office to lick a stamp and mail letters that are significant and timely, how are we to trust your MATH with our money?<br />
<br />
Please get your stuff together - maybe create an electronic filing and communications system between your departments (it's called email, the cloud, bestmarking, private messaging, instant message, etc) - before sending me another letter. At the very least, please try to send the applicable letter in the correct chronology. In my former life working in customer service for a Fortune 500 company, this would not be tolerated. Your team, which services every social security number in the country you can acquire, should be held to higher standards than my team, which only services construction companies in the southeast. Right?<br />
<br />
I am business savvy enough to realize the response will be that "the system did it, not a person", and I know there are "systems". There is someone in the news every day saying the system is racist, the system failed, the system didn't work. The system should have very low self esteem, and I will do my best to cheer it up if I ever bump into it. <br />
<br />
I am also business savvy enough to realize that form letters are used, so your letters were not thoughtful, sincere, nor original. I am also smart enough to realize that someone is responsible for managing "the system" and ensuring it is working properly, including the timeliness of form letters. While the system cannot be held accountable, the person managing it can.<br />
<br />
Again, if professionalism is expected and does exist in every small business in America, shouldn't it also exist in a branch of the American government? Shouldn't the IRS, who is never audited but can audit us, want to work as smoothly and efficiently as possible so that people trust you with their money? People have maintained the perception that you screw people for almost as long as you have been in business. That, alone, should make you want to get things right. <br />
<br />
But, in reality, nobody in your department is aware of the stupid things you do. I'm not the only one in this 300-million-people land that received letters such as those that week. That means you were an idiot a bunch of times. Probably thousands. But you are unaware because of automation, and because you are inaccessible. I tried calling, but you do not provide much telephone support. After finally finding a number, the hold time was 30 minutes every time I called. <br />
<br />
I guess you are busy stamping envelopes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-518789277433574332015-08-17T18:26:00.001-07:002016-04-22T11:16:44.824-07:00Good For You, Tim TebowAn NFL quarterback by NFL standards, or not, I admire Tim Tebow's determination, patience, and perseverance in pursuing his dream. Talented and committed to his physical conditioning, Tebow has remained steadfast in his stance in which position he will play on the field, if he plays in the NFL. Even after spending last season in the broadcast booth, he did not change his stance in playing quarterback. Without a doubt, he has the size, speed, and toughness to play fullback for any team, and be a starter. He has the size and hands to play tight-end. Yet, his desire to play quarterback in the NFL is so strong that he is willing to gamble not playing at all by being a third quarterback on a roster, and probably not seeing the field, at best. <br />
<br />
In writing this, I am beginning to consider that getting paid millions to stay healthy and on the bench as a number three quarterback might not be a bad move, but a brilliant play call instead. But, Tebow is too much of a competitor to have a plan such this. Or is he? A competitor would be willing to do the difficult and to face the real challenge head on: punching the ball a few yards up the middle against a heavy front seven as a fullback. That challenge of breaking loose for the end zone or knocking a linebacker out of the way would pump up the adrenaline for most. Or what about providing pass protection for the quarterback he wants to be? However, the money and sitting on the bench, being part of something great without being physically and permanently damaged years after a long career, could also be a turn on...in a way...and a smart one. But not for a competitor, such as Tebow. <br />
<br />
I was not a fan of Tim Tebow when he played at Florida and this was primarily because I am a University of Alabama fan. It was also because he was constantly receiving all of the air-time attention when there were many, many great players and stories from other schools that deserved equal time and recognition. It continued even after his college career was offer. <br />
<br />
Now, however, I am a fan - not because he is Tim Tebow, or the underdog of quarterbacks, or a Christian, or because he did mission work, all of which I support. I am a fan because he is pursuing his dream and not letting the negative comments, the rejections, or even missing a season stand in the way. We need more people like Tim Tebow; people who do not take "no" for an answer. People who live under conviction of pursuing dreams, pursuing God, and not caring what people think.<br />
<br />
431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-82256619869442423772015-08-12T13:41:00.002-07:002016-04-22T11:19:03.985-07:00Freelance WritingSo recently I have been browsing sites such as Elance and Freelance and it is amazing to me the number of people, most of whom are from third-world countries - but, still, many Americans - will write for pennies per word. The disgusting part of this is that the corporations who post these ads EXPECT, DEMAND, DRIVE, PUSH, CHEAT, STEAL, FORCE their way into getting people to do this. <br />
<br />
For example, I submitted an offer on a job in which the "employer" specifically stated, "If you disagree with my rates ($10/500+words), tell me in your proposal. Also, tell me how many articles a day you can write."<br />
<br />
So, I told her how many I could write, that I would write exclusively for her, and what my rate was. A week later, I received a message, conducted a Skype interview, and began writing a few hours later. In addition, I prompted her attention during the Skype interview that my rate was not the $10 she was seeking. In fact, of 25+ applicants, nobody's rate was that low. They ranged from $20 to over $800. I was in the bottom third.<br />
<br />
Now, that I have written four articles and the bill has been delivered, the "employer" read her ad back to me about the $10/500 words. Of course, I read my offer back to her, which had been formally accepted through the Elance platform. Still, she declined my offer. So guess what? Now, I am taking necessary action to either get paid or stop my articles from being used.<br />
<br />
To think that someone in this country would research and then write for two hours for $5/hour is crazy. It is also disrespectful to take advantage of the poor in other countries, but they do it, those desperate for money accept it, and that is why it is insulting to us. We have more than we need; do we think we are too good for less?<br />
<br />
While pondering over that question, I used the internet to find my posting articles and contact the webmasters, who promptly removed them.431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-34203482461969248452015-08-07T12:33:00.001-07:002015-08-30T11:47:27.161-07:00Snapshot!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJyP-KyU0ozBIiEmXdpWJ816kBO2TuVt3vwDn83qLol45IYqtvfWyMzy9AB2UdiUuyHdoydr5cDfZMXxZ1r-t_bf8J5YoMJwknYRnOBAmoi4_EW5ULZ2R04TclC6cRubSSclYhzF860OX/s1600/2013-11-02+08.40.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJyP-KyU0ozBIiEmXdpWJ816kBO2TuVt3vwDn83qLol45IYqtvfWyMzy9AB2UdiUuyHdoydr5cDfZMXxZ1r-t_bf8J5YoMJwknYRnOBAmoi4_EW5ULZ2R04TclC6cRubSSclYhzF860OX/s400/2013-11-02+08.40.24.jpg" /></a></div><br />
In just a few months, it will be time to visit Mother Nature and enjoy all her beauty. The greatest thing about hunting with a bow is that one gets to spend more time watching and listening than actually shooting. This down time gives us an opportunity to really study nature and how it works. A beautiful place, no elected governing body; yet peace, harmony and freedom still exists.<br />
<br />
I know that I have learned more about myself and my God just by sitting there, watching and listening. Give it a try sometime, and bring a camera if you do not wish to hunt. The positions and poses that you might catch in that one moment under that one ray of light, if you are quick enough to do so, will never be the same again.431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-2344311718866035002015-07-24T21:09:00.003-07:002015-07-25T09:19:02.652-07:00360 degreesI have had the outdoors on my mind all week and mounting my new scope on my rifle last night only brought back memories to last season when I spent quality time with my closest friends on several trips to the great outdoors. One of these trips lead to my greatest accomplishment of my life - a very nice buck. <br />
<br />
However, I began this morning with college football on my mind - perhaps after dreaming about a Yeti cooler last night. Yes, my focus shifted from my scope to reflecting on last hunting season to dreaming about Yeti coolers. If you interpreted all of that, here is more: shortly after my feet hit the floor, I received an invitation to the Buckmaster's Expo next month, so my mind was back on hunting. Full circle. But, before you call me nuts or say I may suffer from ADD, I received THE catalog from Red Head today which furthered my thoughts of climbing a tree or pitching camp. I am not talking about their little fall magazine either. I mean the big book. 600 pages. <br />
<br />
So, while I may have a slight case of ADD, I believe it was meant to be. Scope, memories, cooler, football, hunting, catalog. Yep, that is destiny. It is 100 degrees outside, but 35 degrees with an earthly scent in my mind. 431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-85048638624704756532015-07-13T11:21:00.000-07:002015-07-25T10:25:30.365-07:00Confederate Flags RemovedWhat are your thoughts about the confederate flag debates the last few weeks? South Carolina removed it from their capital building. I am having a hard time understanding how this symbol of the Civil War is offensive to some. In fact, it was this war that ended slavery; a war in which white people fought and died. It placed brothers against brothers in some cases and was a monumental time in our nation's history.<br />
<br />
I would hope that those who are offended would just try to change their perception a bit. How about instead of viewing the flag as a reminder of slavery, view it as a reminder of freedom. It is not about racism, so that should never be part of the conversation. If it were, then the white race would not have lost lives to help free the black race.<br />
<br />
I will tell you now that I have many black friends, so please do not just call me a racist without putting deep thought into my questions or because I do not understand the offense created by the flag. Should one say, "Well, every time I see the flag, it reminds me of my ancestors who were slaves." To that I would ask, "Do you think of Martin Luther King's murder every time you see a parkway named after him?"<br />
<br />
I believe the answer to that would be how he fought for equality, his famous speech, and many other positive thoughts - not the negative ones. You see, we make our own decisions as to what triggers our emotions and associations. So why cannot one choose to associate the flag as a positive thought - freedom? <br />
<br />
Let us all work together to make this world better; to change our perceptions; to help others change theirs. Change mine if I am wrong, but do not criticize. Help me understand.431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3014069143019626842.post-43258813009688113252015-07-08T17:53:00.000-07:002015-07-08T18:01:42.204-07:00What is all the hype?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7iMHC_Sb_QmtkCEhGkfFc6rA8AAIWvt4zs9xd5Ahn57e17fAglxcIEdFj4WT7EdMTGbrhmYHcJT79rYa6L2tpfdYDIvLQgWKL51wbFS8anGZerxgN4G-6_-HuS_vVgJLkWHeIQrJhTI16/s1600/gopro+hero.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7iMHC_Sb_QmtkCEhGkfFc6rA8AAIWvt4zs9xd5Ahn57e17fAglxcIEdFj4WT7EdMTGbrhmYHcJT79rYa6L2tpfdYDIvLQgWKL51wbFS8anGZerxgN4G-6_-HuS_vVgJLkWHeIQrJhTI16/s320/gopro+hero.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Click <a href="http://www.goproactioncams.com/">here</a> and see.431cruiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13679563408249702228noreply@blogger.com0