Hello once again. I know that it's been a little while since any posts, but things have been pretty busy. Nothing too big, just life's little issues. Here's an update: Spring has sprung here in NW PA, which means that the 'Cuda is again on the road...OK, so it's just had the oil changed today and has only done about 1/2 mile so far, but at least it's out again.
The day job has been OK, although this is the first year that I've had some major parental issues which have really irritated me in their baseless accusations and psychotic manifestations. I really can't go any deeper into that realm at this time, but suffice it to say that not everyone has a realistic view of the world around them. WOW ( I'm so happy I'm not that unstable) is all I can really say!
The weekend job is doing well, with one of the busiest seasons we've had for the last number of years finishing soon. I won the last two leagues and have started to branch out and visit other places to see how I fare...so far so good. I guess that shooting is something that comes naturally and is really, really fun too...too bad this can't be my full time job-it would really make complaints much easier to deal with :)
Other than that, I'm looking forward to another fishing season and am awaiting the chance to get out and waste some time wandering up and down the local streams in search of solice and the occasional fish.
Hope all is good where you are and that all the folks you deal with are on their medications to keep them rational and within the scope of reality!
Just remember to relax and laugh. Don't take yourself too seriously.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Life Continues
Life keeps moving on. No matter how much work there is to do, life keeps marching on. It's busy and there is always something to take care of. I guess that's the way things work. All is good here overall. Of course there are complaints and gripes, but right now they seem meaningless compared to other issues. I'm still plugging along, keeping my head above water, or rather the snow line here and all is OK. There have been changes and issues but really nothing too major to this point. Sorry I haven't been keeping up with posts, but it's been really busy and I chose to let this part tail off a little. I hope to get/take the time to update further in the near future, but for now suffice it to say that all is well, the snow is melting and I have plans to enjoy life no matter what happens. There are so many things to do and so little time to do them. Maybe "grab life by the horns" isn't just for commercials?
Any way, get out and enjoy no matter what the weather is.
Any way, get out and enjoy no matter what the weather is.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
All's Good
Everything is going well at this point. The car is running strong, fishing has been good and nothing serious has been brought to my attention. No complaints.
The first real car show of the season has come and gone. Well over 100 miles on the odometer and a bit less rubber in the back, but nothing big. As always, it was fun and worth the time to see friends and enjoy the hobby. The only little downfall was spending hours getting the rubber off of the quarter panels...which was still worth it. That little car is running great.
On top of the great running, the car is now fully insured. When I was talking to my agent I wanted to make sure that it was covered under the towing and ended up with full coverage too. For the price, I'd be insane not to cover it. That little bit makes it a little easier to take the longer trips to shows.
While the distance is something, the next show I'll go to is under a mile from home. That's a nice little event in the shade and is usually quite peaceful. Laid back and relaxing is a good thing. No big egos and no expectations, just a meeting of car people.
Other than the car, this summer has brought some enjoyable fishing. Nothing spectacular, but good fish each time out. After a number of really hot and humid days, it's time to get back after it and see if the fish will still bite. That's my plan for the evening. Hit a couple of little streams and see what's still hungry. Another relaxing PM for me. With work done for a couple of months, it's time for a little R & R. I still take care of what I have to, like changing rooms at work and the yard, but I have more time for the good stuff.
I actually golfed for the first time in at least 6 years. It went well for 4 holes until weather moved in. I was just happy not to have lost a ball and only to have been a few over par...which for me is really good. I had 3 bogeys and was sitting at 3 about 10 feet from the pin on a par 5 when the sky opened up. That is a relaxing sport if you don't take it too seriously. Maybe there will be more in my future who knows.
For tonight, it's time now that I take off and fish some more. After the sun gets a little lower in the sky, it's a good time to find a little shady spot on a little stream and see which fish are in the mood for food. I'll fish for a few hours, make myself some dinner and then get to the mowing. I'll be mowing until about dark , but I'd hate to waste good fishing time on something that isn't that much fun or rewarding. So, at this point, I'm off to fish. :)
The first real car show of the season has come and gone. Well over 100 miles on the odometer and a bit less rubber in the back, but nothing big. As always, it was fun and worth the time to see friends and enjoy the hobby. The only little downfall was spending hours getting the rubber off of the quarter panels...which was still worth it. That little car is running great.
On top of the great running, the car is now fully insured. When I was talking to my agent I wanted to make sure that it was covered under the towing and ended up with full coverage too. For the price, I'd be insane not to cover it. That little bit makes it a little easier to take the longer trips to shows.
While the distance is something, the next show I'll go to is under a mile from home. That's a nice little event in the shade and is usually quite peaceful. Laid back and relaxing is a good thing. No big egos and no expectations, just a meeting of car people.
Other than the car, this summer has brought some enjoyable fishing. Nothing spectacular, but good fish each time out. After a number of really hot and humid days, it's time to get back after it and see if the fish will still bite. That's my plan for the evening. Hit a couple of little streams and see what's still hungry. Another relaxing PM for me. With work done for a couple of months, it's time for a little R & R. I still take care of what I have to, like changing rooms at work and the yard, but I have more time for the good stuff.
I actually golfed for the first time in at least 6 years. It went well for 4 holes until weather moved in. I was just happy not to have lost a ball and only to have been a few over par...which for me is really good. I had 3 bogeys and was sitting at 3 about 10 feet from the pin on a par 5 when the sky opened up. That is a relaxing sport if you don't take it too seriously. Maybe there will be more in my future who knows.
For tonight, it's time now that I take off and fish some more. After the sun gets a little lower in the sky, it's a good time to find a little shady spot on a little stream and see which fish are in the mood for food. I'll fish for a few hours, make myself some dinner and then get to the mowing. I'll be mowing until about dark , but I'd hate to waste good fishing time on something that isn't that much fun or rewarding. So, at this point, I'm off to fish. :)
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Great Start
It's been a great start to spring here. The last few weeks have been pretty much perfect. Temps are reasonable and above the norm for this time of year. It's been dry and just about all I can ask for from a driving standpoint. The car's been out most days for the last couple of weeks.
About the worst part has been the amount of dust in the air from all the anti-skid put down through the winter. Keeping that off the car has been about all that's taking a little time so far. The new electric pump is doing its job and doing it well. The idle is up a few hundred RPMs so I'll have to do a little tuning, but that's pretty minor.
I'm working on a new teacher to join the fold. There are a couple of these Gen II cudas available through a good friend that would be perfect for a newbie to enjoy and get started. After riding in my 69 Barracuda (with a big block) and a friend's 69 Dart (with a rollerized 340 and a 4 speed) he seems hooked, but afraid that he doesn't know enough. It's a learning experience, which I started years ago when I bought a 68 Charger only knowing how to change the oil. It's a fun hobby that takes up as much time and money as you allow it to. Starting with a basic runner/driver just gives you the bug and it grows from there, along with the skills and knowledge that not many others have any more. I hope this guy sticks around the district and gives into the need for an old beast to tinker with. That's the really fun part of the old cars. We'll see what happens.
With all going well on the home front, I can't complain about much and don't care to complain about what I can complain about. It's spring. It's beautiful out and all's good here. A little storm might keep the car in tomorrow, but that really doesn't matter. I'm happy.
About the worst part has been the amount of dust in the air from all the anti-skid put down through the winter. Keeping that off the car has been about all that's taking a little time so far. The new electric pump is doing its job and doing it well. The idle is up a few hundred RPMs so I'll have to do a little tuning, but that's pretty minor.
I'm working on a new teacher to join the fold. There are a couple of these Gen II cudas available through a good friend that would be perfect for a newbie to enjoy and get started. After riding in my 69 Barracuda (with a big block) and a friend's 69 Dart (with a rollerized 340 and a 4 speed) he seems hooked, but afraid that he doesn't know enough. It's a learning experience, which I started years ago when I bought a 68 Charger only knowing how to change the oil. It's a fun hobby that takes up as much time and money as you allow it to. Starting with a basic runner/driver just gives you the bug and it grows from there, along with the skills and knowledge that not many others have any more. I hope this guy sticks around the district and gives into the need for an old beast to tinker with. That's the really fun part of the old cars. We'll see what happens.
With all going well on the home front, I can't complain about much and don't care to complain about what I can complain about. It's spring. It's beautiful out and all's good here. A little storm might keep the car in tomorrow, but that really doesn't matter. I'm happy.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Ahh, Spring
Life is good here. Spring has sprung and all things seem good. I'm currently clearing the brush from around the property, which has been more intense than I originally thought. There's so much dead plant life that I stand about 5 inches above the ground before I've raked up all the tinder. At times it's a little spooky and rainforest-like.
The weather has been great too. It's a little cool, with temps in the 50's to 60's, but so much nicer than it has been. The car has been out nearly every day and not showing any signs of trouble. Occasionally I get some grief from a person or two that don't agree with me driving something like that but when I tell them my mileage and compare that to the mileage of others on he road, it's usually the end of it. At any rate, I like it and will drive it as long as it's feasible. I do have a mountain bike at the ready if things get too rough though ;)
When all is going well, it's nice to relax on the porch with friends and BBQ something while the birds eat and the deer wander by. That's what I did this PM. No work. Just a little food and conversation in an environment that makes me appreciate where I am. All is good as spring bursts onto the scene. Even the trees behind the house are now displaying the colors of their buds. On some, there are some small leaves too. With only 36 more days to work, I can't help but think about summer and all it has to offer. Until then I'll keep doing what I do and pecking away at what I have to do. Good things await.
The weather has been great too. It's a little cool, with temps in the 50's to 60's, but so much nicer than it has been. The car has been out nearly every day and not showing any signs of trouble. Occasionally I get some grief from a person or two that don't agree with me driving something like that but when I tell them my mileage and compare that to the mileage of others on he road, it's usually the end of it. At any rate, I like it and will drive it as long as it's feasible. I do have a mountain bike at the ready if things get too rough though ;)
When all is going well, it's nice to relax on the porch with friends and BBQ something while the birds eat and the deer wander by. That's what I did this PM. No work. Just a little food and conversation in an environment that makes me appreciate where I am. All is good as spring bursts onto the scene. Even the trees behind the house are now displaying the colors of their buds. On some, there are some small leaves too. With only 36 more days to work, I can't help but think about summer and all it has to offer. Until then I'll keep doing what I do and pecking away at what I have to do. Good things await.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
All's Good
All is good here. We're experiencing some spring, with relatively warm days (60's) and decent nights (40's) and starting to get outside a little more. This time of year is nice, with the days getting longer, the warmer weather arriving and summer not too far off. On Monday, I finished pluming in a new fuel pump and changed the oil. I started the car, which sprang to life almost instantly, and decided to set it on the ground. Since it started so well and was on the ground, I drove it and ended up putting about 20 miles on it that day after work. It went to work the next day and did about 30 miles today. That's a good sign that summer's coming. The 'cuda's out and about. It didn't get all of the intended upgrades this winter, but it's still roadworthy and will see driving duty any day that the weather isn't too bad.
I also took a day off from my weekend job and shot at a little tournament. I had a a great time and shot fairly well. That was the first trip away from my home course in way too long. I'm looking forward to joining the group that invited me to the last shoot at another in the not too distant future.
There is nothing big that isn't going well right now. All's happiness on the personal front. That's a very good feeling to say the least.
Around the corner is the first day of fishing season, which I usually boycott due to the number of anglers on any given stream. But, soon after that first day, when few others are out, I start fishing and relaxing along the various streams around me and enjoying the best of what this area has to offer.
Take a look around and see what's great about where you are...if there's nothing, find a new place to be or take a closer look.
I also took a day off from my weekend job and shot at a little tournament. I had a a great time and shot fairly well. That was the first trip away from my home course in way too long. I'm looking forward to joining the group that invited me to the last shoot at another in the not too distant future.
There is nothing big that isn't going well right now. All's happiness on the personal front. That's a very good feeling to say the least.
Around the corner is the first day of fishing season, which I usually boycott due to the number of anglers on any given stream. But, soon after that first day, when few others are out, I start fishing and relaxing along the various streams around me and enjoying the best of what this area has to offer.
Take a look around and see what's great about where you are...if there's nothing, find a new place to be or take a closer look.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
A Little Spring
Well, I can finally see the grass in most of my yard. It's pretty soggy, and the deer have really made a mess throughout the winter. Between the hoof prints everywhere (I guess if it were a golf course we'd call it aerated), and the little piles left by what they ate, it doesn't look or smell too good. The plus side is that I get to watch them as they go about their lives and get to see some start from little spotted youth, through their rambunctious times and into maturity. It's a pretty good thing really.
With the appearance of the grass comes the reminder that driving season is close at hand. I usually wait for a few good heavy rains to wash the salt off the roads before taking to the streets in the car. This year, it also reminds me of what I intended to do over the winter. Right now, the 'Cuda is up in the air awaiting a new electric fuel pump and a better fitting oil pan. (The wheels/tires/brakes will have to wait to be upgraded a little longer) I had issues with the stock mechanical pumps and ended up getting home on a flatbed, which is pretty embarrassing for someone that works on their own vehicle. The oil pan is a result of an engine being squeezed into a place that it wasn't intended to live. I found one that will fit better (thanks to friends) and make for fewer suspension contact issues. There's always some improvement planned.
Friends make many things possible. Without them, the hobby wouldn't have its appeal or be nearly as entertaining. I've learned a lot from people that have taken the time to show me a variety of things, but seem to learn the most from the stupid mistakes I make. Most of the time these mistakes only cost me time, which isn't too bad.
Just a couple of weeks ago, a few friends and I embarked on a what has become a yearly pilgrimage to Detroit for the annual AutoRama. Seeing what some of the greatest minds in the custom car world are doing always makes for ideas for our cars. Even though we were shut down before we reached Cleveland and never got to our destination, visiting with friends made the affair worthwhile. Although my drive started out in a downpour of rain at 4:15 AM and quickly changed to freezing rain followed by near blizzard conditions, it was worth the effort and time.
Whether its computer work, kitchen remodeling, plumbing or any number of normal necessities it's really nice to know that there are few people that can be counted on for support. As I get older, my definition of friendship stays with me. While the MySpace generation sees friends as people they IM with, add to their "friends" list, get into trouble with, or simply "know" from the computer, I can only hope that they learn the true meaning of having friends. Most of the "friends" out there don't meet my definition.
So as true spring approaches, I look forward to supporting friends and continuing to reap the benefits of a larger knowledge base. With that, I guess it's been too long since I've been a student, so it's time to get back into the classes and work toward my degree. I should be able to take a class this summer and then keep up through the next school year. I think I have the finances worked out to the point that I can take care of some more classes and look forward to learning more and putting it to use. So far the UF classes have been great and have shown me so many things that I use, that I can't imagine working without this new knowledge.
Thanks to all who've helped me over this last year. Whether it's wrenching, hammering or typing, I've had a host of people that have tremendously helpful and patient with me as I learn. Hopefully I can return the favors and help others as they progress.
With the appearance of the grass comes the reminder that driving season is close at hand. I usually wait for a few good heavy rains to wash the salt off the roads before taking to the streets in the car. This year, it also reminds me of what I intended to do over the winter. Right now, the 'Cuda is up in the air awaiting a new electric fuel pump and a better fitting oil pan. (The wheels/tires/brakes will have to wait to be upgraded a little longer) I had issues with the stock mechanical pumps and ended up getting home on a flatbed, which is pretty embarrassing for someone that works on their own vehicle. The oil pan is a result of an engine being squeezed into a place that it wasn't intended to live. I found one that will fit better (thanks to friends) and make for fewer suspension contact issues. There's always some improvement planned.
Friends make many things possible. Without them, the hobby wouldn't have its appeal or be nearly as entertaining. I've learned a lot from people that have taken the time to show me a variety of things, but seem to learn the most from the stupid mistakes I make. Most of the time these mistakes only cost me time, which isn't too bad.
Just a couple of weeks ago, a few friends and I embarked on a what has become a yearly pilgrimage to Detroit for the annual AutoRama. Seeing what some of the greatest minds in the custom car world are doing always makes for ideas for our cars. Even though we were shut down before we reached Cleveland and never got to our destination, visiting with friends made the affair worthwhile. Although my drive started out in a downpour of rain at 4:15 AM and quickly changed to freezing rain followed by near blizzard conditions, it was worth the effort and time.
Whether its computer work, kitchen remodeling, plumbing or any number of normal necessities it's really nice to know that there are few people that can be counted on for support. As I get older, my definition of friendship stays with me. While the MySpace generation sees friends as people they IM with, add to their "friends" list, get into trouble with, or simply "know" from the computer, I can only hope that they learn the true meaning of having friends. Most of the "friends" out there don't meet my definition.
So as true spring approaches, I look forward to supporting friends and continuing to reap the benefits of a larger knowledge base. With that, I guess it's been too long since I've been a student, so it's time to get back into the classes and work toward my degree. I should be able to take a class this summer and then keep up through the next school year. I think I have the finances worked out to the point that I can take care of some more classes and look forward to learning more and putting it to use. So far the UF classes have been great and have shown me so many things that I use, that I can't imagine working without this new knowledge.
Thanks to all who've helped me over this last year. Whether it's wrenching, hammering or typing, I've had a host of people that have tremendously helpful and patient with me as I learn. Hopefully I can return the favors and help others as they progress.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Still Moving On
All is continuing on a good pace here. Nothing major on the homefront to speak of. I'm just completing a superficial kitchen remodel, which hasn't been too fun so far, and have taken over the lead in our winter league. Nothing has really stood out recently as a really big deal. Life is working out pretty well at the moment. While I am a bit behind in getting the car ready for the next season, all else seems to be on schedule. No complaints/gripes to speak of.
Although I am waiting for spring to reach this locale. I am a bit tired of shoveling snow and scraping the windshield. Other than that it's just business as usual here in NW PA.
The last eclipse was impressive enough though. It was a perfectly clear evening and the best opportunity to witness a lunar eclipse that I've seen in my area. I'm still working my way through my students' pictures and creating a PowerPoint to show what they saw that evening. I attempted to video the event and ended up totally freezing up one camera and missing most of the event with another. Inexperience shows when this sort of event happens. It's too bad they don't occur more frequently so I could become an expert! At any rate, my students enjoyed what they saw and were really enthused about the opportunity. Many really surprised me with what they did to see the eclipse and get me the pictures. I have a pretty good bunch right now.
I guess that's it for the PM. Nothing really outstanding that needs aired right now. An even keel is nothing really noteworthy, but it does feel pretty darn good.
I hope all is well wherever you call home.
Although I am waiting for spring to reach this locale. I am a bit tired of shoveling snow and scraping the windshield. Other than that it's just business as usual here in NW PA.
The last eclipse was impressive enough though. It was a perfectly clear evening and the best opportunity to witness a lunar eclipse that I've seen in my area. I'm still working my way through my students' pictures and creating a PowerPoint to show what they saw that evening. I attempted to video the event and ended up totally freezing up one camera and missing most of the event with another. Inexperience shows when this sort of event happens. It's too bad they don't occur more frequently so I could become an expert! At any rate, my students enjoyed what they saw and were really enthused about the opportunity. Many really surprised me with what they did to see the eclipse and get me the pictures. I have a pretty good bunch right now.
I guess that's it for the PM. Nothing really outstanding that needs aired right now. An even keel is nothing really noteworthy, but it does feel pretty darn good.
I hope all is well wherever you call home.
Monday, February 11, 2008
All's OK
On the personal front all is well. Nothing major to report, just the usual events in life. Nothing to complain about. It's cold, 4 to start the day, but when compared to other locales it's not so bad. Even the snow hasn't been too much deal with. Winter is going better than expected.
I won the fall sporting clays league and was winning the winter league until a really poor showing last week and a lack luster performance in the snow this weekend. It happens. Hopefully I'll figure out what I'm doing differently and fix it this coming weekend. I've been in worse slumps before, that's for sure.
My herd of deer is growing as the temps drop. They eat fairly well here and are not yet showing signs of significant weight loss. They're pretty healthy so far.
All in all a good winter on the home front. I guess it's time to get after the to-do list on the 'Cuda so I'm ready for another cruising season. It's pretty cold in the garage, but it's time to start getting some improvements taken care of. Goals, they're great to have, but not always simple to meet.
Stay warm(for those in the south, at least pretend it's cold) and enjoy the remainder of the winter.
Good luck.
I won the fall sporting clays league and was winning the winter league until a really poor showing last week and a lack luster performance in the snow this weekend. It happens. Hopefully I'll figure out what I'm doing differently and fix it this coming weekend. I've been in worse slumps before, that's for sure.
My herd of deer is growing as the temps drop. They eat fairly well here and are not yet showing signs of significant weight loss. They're pretty healthy so far.
All in all a good winter on the home front. I guess it's time to get after the to-do list on the 'Cuda so I'm ready for another cruising season. It's pretty cold in the garage, but it's time to start getting some improvements taken care of. Goals, they're great to have, but not always simple to meet.
Stay warm(for those in the south, at least pretend it's cold) and enjoy the remainder of the winter.
Good luck.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Been Busy
It's been a while since the last entry!! Things have been busy to say the least. While hunting took a back seat to just about everything else, I did get out enough to relax and enjoy the woods, I passed on several deer and ended up not shooting any. I don't mind and appreciate the time I had out there. Now that season is over, it's time to look at winter hiking here, which is a lot like hunting without the need to be quiet and stalk something. Just getting out and enjoying the scenery in the winter is nice. It's also nice that any rattle snakes are gone for the season and bears are hibernating for the winter too. There's not much out there this time of year that's really hazardous. Coyotes and bobcats are about all that's left on the predatory side this time of year, and they're not really interested in humans as food.
I'm still working on improving the Cuda. I'm waiting for a few parts and will start on the interior soon. If time (and money) permit, it will also get a good set of disks up front and a larger set of drums in the rear. The big engine matched with small brakes has proven to be a little sketchy.
Basketball league started last week too. While I'm again pretty out of shape to start the year, the bumps and bruises seem to hurt more than the lungs and muscles. It's not a very well policed league. This week I'm bruised from shoulder to shoulder, due to elbows in the back under the hoop and have a few good bruises about kidney high too. It's rough at times, but I still enjoy the competition, even though my team's not the best. We have fun and find reasons to keep coming back for more abuse. Even when we lose we still generally have good time.
Well, I guess that's it for now. I still have lesson plans to take care of for next week and a few other things to finish before calling it a day, so I'm done here. Maybe I'll know something about something important next time.
I'm still working on improving the Cuda. I'm waiting for a few parts and will start on the interior soon. If time (and money) permit, it will also get a good set of disks up front and a larger set of drums in the rear. The big engine matched with small brakes has proven to be a little sketchy.
Basketball league started last week too. While I'm again pretty out of shape to start the year, the bumps and bruises seem to hurt more than the lungs and muscles. It's not a very well policed league. This week I'm bruised from shoulder to shoulder, due to elbows in the back under the hoop and have a few good bruises about kidney high too. It's rough at times, but I still enjoy the competition, even though my team's not the best. We have fun and find reasons to keep coming back for more abuse. Even when we lose we still generally have good time.
Well, I guess that's it for now. I still have lesson plans to take care of for next week and a few other things to finish before calling it a day, so I'm done here. Maybe I'll know something about something important next time.
Saturday, December 01, 2007
Snow's Here
We've had a couple of snows here recently. Even though the roads hae been clear, there is still salt on them, so the car is under cover for a while. I'm still waiting for some parts so I can convert it to disk brakes and a bigger bolt pattern to match more wheels. That's a project that I'm hoping to finish during the winter, which makes me think about how/when people in other parts of the country without that mandated winter down time for cars like this get their projects done. Oh well, just another thing running through my head.
We're expecting some snow, rain, ice and more snow tomorrow. That should be interesting. Other than that, all is well here, work is fine, life is fine and I'm currently leading the fall league at my local gun club. The numbers are pretty low, but it feels good to be shooting well. I'm getting used to the most recent gun purchase and starting to shoot it pretty well. The colors are bit much, but I'm used to the jabs I get for using it.
As the days get shorter, the amount I accomplish outside wanes and my interests turn to inside projects and the computer. I should be keeping up on the posts more now that I have an excuse not to be outside doing something else. Wasting nice weather seems silly, so I try not to. Now maybe I'll get to cleaning the school's target rifles that I received after camp, which ended about two months ago. Another thing I haven't been able to designate time for...soon I guess. There's always something to occupy time.
We're expecting some snow, rain, ice and more snow tomorrow. That should be interesting. Other than that, all is well here, work is fine, life is fine and I'm currently leading the fall league at my local gun club. The numbers are pretty low, but it feels good to be shooting well. I'm getting used to the most recent gun purchase and starting to shoot it pretty well. The colors are bit much, but I'm used to the jabs I get for using it.
As the days get shorter, the amount I accomplish outside wanes and my interests turn to inside projects and the computer. I should be keeping up on the posts more now that I have an excuse not to be outside doing something else. Wasting nice weather seems silly, so I try not to. Now maybe I'll get to cleaning the school's target rifles that I received after camp, which ended about two months ago. Another thing I haven't been able to designate time for...soon I guess. There's always something to occupy time.
Sunday, November 04, 2007
Another Season Gone
It seems that fall is pretty well done here. The nice weather has given way to some cold, and I mean COLD, rain. The clouds are looking more like snow clouds than rain clouds and daylight savings is over, making it darker earlier. All of these signs, coupled with the loss of most leaves, shows that winter isn't all that far away.
Fortunately, over the last 3 weeks, I've put a new roof on parts of my house/garage and seem to have taken care of all the little issues. Glad it's over!! I'm not built for being on a roof.
I'll most likely get the 'Cuda out some more before the salt shakers have their way with the roads, but that season is drawing to a close too. I guess it's time to roll up the windows to stay warm and to keep an eye on the weather maps.
One really good part is that deer season opens early this year, due to the early Thanksgiving. That season is a busy one, with the family business being sporting goods. Long days and last minute emergencies are the norm. I'll hunt, but don't really get that excited about rifle season. It's not really that difficult to get within a few hundred yards of these creatures. I save most of my effort for traditional flint lock season. That's more fun, with a much shorter range, less accuracy and the ever present possibility that it won't go off the first, second, third or even fourth time. Then of course there is the cloud of smoke that appears an instant before the gun discharges allow lots of time to flinch and throw the shot off the desired path.
I guess I'm fairly ready for this seasonal change, but will start to clean out a spot for a second vehicle for the winter. That extra bay just seems to be constantly full of one project or another. Maybe it's time to think about a bigger garage?
Fortunately, over the last 3 weeks, I've put a new roof on parts of my house/garage and seem to have taken care of all the little issues. Glad it's over!! I'm not built for being on a roof.
I'll most likely get the 'Cuda out some more before the salt shakers have their way with the roads, but that season is drawing to a close too. I guess it's time to roll up the windows to stay warm and to keep an eye on the weather maps.
One really good part is that deer season opens early this year, due to the early Thanksgiving. That season is a busy one, with the family business being sporting goods. Long days and last minute emergencies are the norm. I'll hunt, but don't really get that excited about rifle season. It's not really that difficult to get within a few hundred yards of these creatures. I save most of my effort for traditional flint lock season. That's more fun, with a much shorter range, less accuracy and the ever present possibility that it won't go off the first, second, third or even fourth time. Then of course there is the cloud of smoke that appears an instant before the gun discharges allow lots of time to flinch and throw the shot off the desired path.
I guess I'm fairly ready for this seasonal change, but will start to clean out a spot for a second vehicle for the winter. That extra bay just seems to be constantly full of one project or another. Maybe it's time to think about a bigger garage?
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Georgous Weather
The weather here has been unbelievable!! Sunny, dry, much warmer than usual. I've taken advantage of it. Not with the 'Cuda, but in getting a roof on my house. When I saw that the weather called for several dry days in a row, I came home from school on Friday and started taking the old roof off. Saturday was the start of the new construction, along with a dinner with my grandmother and uncle. Today I'm ready for the ice guard, but ran out of steam. I'm really not built for roofing! Tomorrow after work I should finish the project and get everything put away. It's amazing how many tools find their way onto the roof! Whether it's figuring out where the leaks were and how to stop them, or attempting to re-engineer the meeting points of multiple pitches, there's a bunch of stuff and time needed.
While I'm sore and tired, I might still take the car out for a little jaunt. It's too nice to not get it out at some point this weekend. I feel guilty letting sit when the weather's so nice. I just hope that the rains hold off until I can finish the work tomorrow!!
While I'm sore and tired, I might still take the car out for a little jaunt. It's too nice to not get it out at some point this weekend. I feel guilty letting sit when the weather's so nice. I just hope that the rains hold off until I can finish the work tomorrow!!
Monday, October 08, 2007
The End....well sort of
Well, it's the end of the nice weather here. It was near 90 yesterday, which is WAY above the expected. Still, I put nearly 200 miles on the 'Cuda, going to the last cruise at my favorite spot and of course lighting the hides and engulfing the area in smoke. It was a fun day and quite uneventful too. There were friendly people with an interest in and an appreciation for vehicles of all sorts. There was nothing negative to say at all! What a great way to end the cruising season.
That's not to say that the car is parked. It will be out, and driven to work until the salt shakers on the rears of the plows start to drop their contents. That's when the official end of the cruising year ends for me. My car has never seen salt, most likely never seen snow (other than watching it through the garage windows) and never will as long it's mine. Even though working on it necessitated several stitches in my finger a few weeks ago, I see that it was my fault, not the fault of that inanimate object. Just another aspect of wrenching on your own chariot. Battle scars show that I don't just drive them, I work on them. That's the sense of accomplishment for me: learning (sometimes the hard way) and getting to see the results of hard work. Maybe this winter will be the year it gets disk brakes, and a finished interior? If not, I'll drive it like it is next year...after all, it hasn't had to ride on a flat bed in a LONG time :)
That's not to say that the car is parked. It will be out, and driven to work until the salt shakers on the rears of the plows start to drop their contents. That's when the official end of the cruising year ends for me. My car has never seen salt, most likely never seen snow (other than watching it through the garage windows) and never will as long it's mine. Even though working on it necessitated several stitches in my finger a few weeks ago, I see that it was my fault, not the fault of that inanimate object. Just another aspect of wrenching on your own chariot. Battle scars show that I don't just drive them, I work on them. That's the sense of accomplishment for me: learning (sometimes the hard way) and getting to see the results of hard work. Maybe this winter will be the year it gets disk brakes, and a finished interior? If not, I'll drive it like it is next year...after all, it hasn't had to ride on a flat bed in a LONG time :)
Monday, September 17, 2007
Life's Not Bad
Life's pretty good here overall. The weather is changing, and hunting season is in the air. It's a little cooler now, but not bad at all. We're looking at a week of really nice weather coming up too. The car's been out nearly every day lately, only sitting on Sunday due to being caught in the rain a few times on Saturday and being really filthy. It's clean again and will be out every day until the salt starts to fall from the plow trucks. I'm racking up some miles this season and enjoying the trip.
I'm getting ready to put a roof on the back part of the house/workshop soon and gearing up for this undertaking. It's been a long time in the works, but should be done well before the snow lets loose this year. Hopefully all will work out OK on that front...a leaking roof really sucks sometimes. I tried several contractors, who were all either busy or just didn't want the work, so it's up to me. We'll see how good I am at building! That should prove interesting to say the least.
It's late enough in the season that I pulled my father's boat out of the lake last weekend. I just finished repairing the trailer in time to pull the boat too. The lake is now a controlled lake that has the water drawn down throughout the winter for several reasons. The reduction of lake level makes it pretty much impossible for the boat to be removed. This year that will be early to work on the dam and gates that control the level. At least that will give me some decent weather to get into the boat and do some long needed wiring. This year, I should have all the electric working and get the lights working for night time travel, which is one of my favorite times on the water. It shouldn't be too tough, but I'd like to do it when it's warm and then put it up for the winter, being ready to go once the water flow is again restricted enough to raise the water level.
All is good! The only complaints come from work and are related to technology. Everything else seems to be going quite smoothly! Life is pretty darn good right now. There are things to be done but at least there's the feeling of accomplishment that goes with completing something. Since classes ended, I have to admit that I was a bit too idle for my taste and am looking forward to new projects. I'll post updates on the progresses as they happen. Hopefully it will be all good news!
Best of luck to all and enjoy whatever you can, whenever you can!
I'm getting ready to put a roof on the back part of the house/workshop soon and gearing up for this undertaking. It's been a long time in the works, but should be done well before the snow lets loose this year. Hopefully all will work out OK on that front...a leaking roof really sucks sometimes. I tried several contractors, who were all either busy or just didn't want the work, so it's up to me. We'll see how good I am at building! That should prove interesting to say the least.
It's late enough in the season that I pulled my father's boat out of the lake last weekend. I just finished repairing the trailer in time to pull the boat too. The lake is now a controlled lake that has the water drawn down throughout the winter for several reasons. The reduction of lake level makes it pretty much impossible for the boat to be removed. This year that will be early to work on the dam and gates that control the level. At least that will give me some decent weather to get into the boat and do some long needed wiring. This year, I should have all the electric working and get the lights working for night time travel, which is one of my favorite times on the water. It shouldn't be too tough, but I'd like to do it when it's warm and then put it up for the winter, being ready to go once the water flow is again restricted enough to raise the water level.
All is good! The only complaints come from work and are related to technology. Everything else seems to be going quite smoothly! Life is pretty darn good right now. There are things to be done but at least there's the feeling of accomplishment that goes with completing something. Since classes ended, I have to admit that I was a bit too idle for my taste and am looking forward to new projects. I'll post updates on the progresses as they happen. Hopefully it will be all good news!
Best of luck to all and enjoy whatever you can, whenever you can!
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Back to Work
Today marked the official start of another year here. Ya, it's a little late, but that's what my district chose again this year. There are goods and bads, but it seems to work out OK. The first day went pretty well, with some of the expected issues, locker troubles and lost students but nothing really major on that front. All in all it was pretty smooth for me. I still have some problems not being able to use software that I have in the past and some that I learned about this summer in classes, but I'll keep fighting there I guess. That's an entire story in itself and I'm not getting back into that now.
I just look forward to watching this new batch of students grow throughout the year and progress toward adulthood. It's interesting to see. Even the students I had last year, who return to say the first day, seem older already. That makes all the BS worthwhile I guess...and only 179 more days to go before school's over again :)
I just look forward to watching this new batch of students grow throughout the year and progress toward adulthood. It's interesting to see. Even the students I had last year, who return to say the first day, seem older already. That makes all the BS worthwhile I guess...and only 179 more days to go before school's over again :)
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
A Good Place
Last night, the inlaws were at the house for a little BBQ. It went well, but the evening pointed out one important thing...I'm in a good place. The house is a little small and, of course the garage isn't big enough. The location is quiet and close to a state park, hiking trails and a bike trail. This came to mind today because I was looking for some pictures and found this from earlier in the spring...or last year, I can't remember. We have so much wild-life in the back yard that it's interesting to sit on the back porch and watch. This was a common topic during the meal. Whether it's simply the range of birds that visit the feeder, woodchucks, deer (and fawns), or bears, it seems that there is always something out there. In this case, the two young fawns were playing with the geese, herding them around the yard and splashing in the water. The deer seemed happy but the geese appeared to be more annoyed than anything. Most of the flock is out of the picture. Things like this make this little place very nice
Thursday, July 19, 2007
I Never Knew
I learn things all the time, but today found something really interesting in my RSS bin. Reading a little about the NYC steam pipe blowing was, of course, sad. On the other hand, the ingenuity and planning that was done in the late 1800's was remarkable. They'd thought of and built an efficient method for salvaging normally lost heat in the generation of electricity. The volume of steam is tremendous and is not only used to heat buildings in the winter, but is used to turn turbines that power AC systems in some buildings during the summer months. This idea was used 120 years ago, yet today that idea is rather novel in most places. It's all in what is presented to the general public. Even with this latest disaster, this type of system should spread, with the growing energy costs and a somewhat increased need for "cleaner" energy and saving energy. Check out the SciAm article. It's pretty short but has some good things to think about.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Unbelievable!!
Today, I had an experience that should never happen. I have an elderly neighbor, in her 80's. She asked me about the price quoted to her by an out of town contractor that was going to put windows in her house. When I heard the figure and looked at the windows, I thought that something was wrong. Then I found out that this guy took a check of a thousand bucks as a deposit. The price of the windows (2 of them by the way) was nearly 10% of the price she paid for the house. I told her to get other estimates and to put a hold on that first contractor and see what comes out. She canceled the check and started asking around a little more. She had another estimate of 1/4 the price for the physical windows.
This afternoon, that original contractor showed up and was quite rude to her about her changed mind. She used me a reason for her cancellation, so he then insulted me...I wasn't around at that time. With this in mind, I did a little checking and it's not the first issue that's come from this place. Some guys are really tough spoken when dealing with an 80+ year old with a cane. I'm in the process now of finding her a better person and seeing what these things actually cost. Even with escalating labor costs, my estimate on the price of the windows leaves the labor costs at a rate not seen in any other contracting work I've ever seen. Even if the two windows took two laborers 30 hours to put in at typical local rates, she'd be well behind. With common local rates, two people would be working for over 50 hours for this bill to be reasonable...then if it took them that long, they're not reasonable either...Some people are interesting. It's too bad that there are people like this around. Of course this isn't my specialty, but common sense is good for something. If I were to put 10% of the purchase price of my home into two windows, I'd be significantly perturbed! If, somehow, I'm entirely off base, I'll call the guy and apologize. I doubt that will need to be done, but hey, if I am wrong, I'll own up to it...even though I was insulted (my neighbor couldn't repeat the insult, it was "too bad"...nice older lady:))
My step now is researching reputable window makers/installers to see what's really what. We have a few places that make them pretty locally and stand behind what they do. Helping this neighbor is not unusual, she's a nice lady and a good neighbor to have. We'll see where this goes. I hope it all works out for her and will do what I can to help.
This afternoon, that original contractor showed up and was quite rude to her about her changed mind. She used me a reason for her cancellation, so he then insulted me...I wasn't around at that time. With this in mind, I did a little checking and it's not the first issue that's come from this place. Some guys are really tough spoken when dealing with an 80+ year old with a cane. I'm in the process now of finding her a better person and seeing what these things actually cost. Even with escalating labor costs, my estimate on the price of the windows leaves the labor costs at a rate not seen in any other contracting work I've ever seen. Even if the two windows took two laborers 30 hours to put in at typical local rates, she'd be well behind. With common local rates, two people would be working for over 50 hours for this bill to be reasonable...then if it took them that long, they're not reasonable either...Some people are interesting. It's too bad that there are people like this around. Of course this isn't my specialty, but common sense is good for something. If I were to put 10% of the purchase price of my home into two windows, I'd be significantly perturbed! If, somehow, I'm entirely off base, I'll call the guy and apologize. I doubt that will need to be done, but hey, if I am wrong, I'll own up to it...even though I was insulted (my neighbor couldn't repeat the insult, it was "too bad"...nice older lady:))
My step now is researching reputable window makers/installers to see what's really what. We have a few places that make them pretty locally and stand behind what they do. Helping this neighbor is not unusual, she's a nice lady and a good neighbor to have. We'll see where this goes. I hope it all works out for her and will do what I can to help.
Things Change
Well, the fishing trip didn't work out...too many other things to take care of. I guess it's a good thing, it was rough on the lake on Thursday and there was at least one injury on board due to the wave heights. On top of that, the fishing wasn't too great any way.
The weather has been very good lately, so I've shot several rounds at five stand and am getting used to the new gun. The scores should be better soon. Class is going pretty well, and I'm only behind on the video part. I hope to take care of this ASAP...meet with my actors today(if they remember). After that it should be pretty straight forward. I've toyed with the editing software and think that I'll be OK.
All is well, the car is out just about every day and so far this summer there have been few days when it's just too hot and humid to do much. It's a pretty good feeling when things are caught up and taken care of...now it's off to trim a couple of trees with a pole saw...and then dig out the drain in the back yard...and then who knows what I'll find that needs some attention. Life can be pretty slow in this rural area, and I like it!
The weather has been very good lately, so I've shot several rounds at five stand and am getting used to the new gun. The scores should be better soon. Class is going pretty well, and I'm only behind on the video part. I hope to take care of this ASAP...meet with my actors today(if they remember). After that it should be pretty straight forward. I've toyed with the editing software and think that I'll be OK.
All is well, the car is out just about every day and so far this summer there have been few days when it's just too hot and humid to do much. It's a pretty good feeling when things are caught up and taken care of...now it's off to trim a couple of trees with a pole saw...and then dig out the drain in the back yard...and then who knows what I'll find that needs some attention. Life can be pretty slow in this rural area, and I like it!
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