My Daughter's Father

Worn and More Worn.

2010-07-24T22:10:00.003-05:00

Today, Stacy and I went looking for a replacement for the zx2.

Even though I don't travel as much as I did. No more east TN, and only one overnight in the past 5 weeks. The zx2 topped 276,000 miles.

I changed the oil at 276,000, and scheduled the next change for 280,000 which will be oil change number 82. Going to need a set of tires soon as well. I just can't see a new set when I'm looking for another vehicle.

While we were out today, the Camry rolled over to a whopping 100,000. We bought the Camry six months before the zx2.

We stopped just before APSU, when I took the shot below.

So we are shopping for a two seat, sport convertable. Or I should say that's what I'm looking for.

They Learn Quick

2010-07-19T17:52:00.006-05:00

After church as we drove into the garage, Emma wanted to ride bikes. She wanted me to ride mine up and down the driveway as she rode her three wheeler. She wanted to ride mine by herself, I said in due time.

After lunch and nap time, we went out to the garden. I taught her how to hold the hose and where to point while watering.

She was getting good at it spraying back and forth.

Nice and easy.She started to get a little sideways on me, so I asked for the hose back, which she gave me. Foolish little girl.

Yep. I proceeded to hose her down, it's so cool to hear her laugh.

Run Emma, run.

After a while she said Poppy, my turn.

Yea, duh, I gave her the hose back.

At which point she started chasing me.

Good times.

After the watering lesson, Emma crawled up next to Stacy to tell her, "we have to talk about this."

Nana, put the phone down, we have to talk about this.

At this point she is telling Nana that I won't let her pick stuff out of the garden without me.

It was truly hard not to laugh as she was so expressive and like an Italian, she was all hands.
There and here.

Back over here and everywhere. We had a great day with Emma as we always do, she is growing so fast and talks more than all her aunts combined.

Old Friends-Still Friends

2010-07-18T13:43:00.005-05:00

Yesterday afternoon was a blessing, we were able to get together with some old and dear friends. When I say old, except for a few, I mean long time friends. Some of these friendships have 15 years of history and continue to this day. I pray that we will remain friends forever, because eternity is a long dang time.

I can say without a doubt, I love these people.

Cathy, Don, Stacy, Emma, David, David and yes another David. Stacy says that I like to keep friends named David to make it easy to remember.
Mike, Betty, Bonnie, Lisa, Sheila, Lori and Cathy.

May God continue to bless me with good friends.
Amen.

Future Backyard Farmer

2010-07-14T23:25:00.004-05:00

This afternoon I introduced Emma to the garden. BIG mistake. As I was trying to show her which tomatoes were ready to pick, all she saw was green "balls" on the bush.

We started with the tomato plants, but it was not long before she was all into the garden.
My apple tree is producing, but not as much as last year.

Whenever I took my camera out of my pocket, Emma got this big smile and started to squint her eyes. Every time I turned around to pick my peppers, she would reach into the tomato plants a pluck another green "ball" and drop it into the bowl.

Emma ready to start harvesting.

Big smiles for poppy.

Poppy, it's heby, I can't hold dit.

Hole In One

2010-07-08T21:43:00.002-05:00

On Monday, July 5th, my son in law, David and I went and walked Mason Rudolph in the morning. Then went to KFC for the double down sandwich. After eating went back to do another round, glad we did. On the par 3, 5th hole, I took my 8 iron out of the bag, addressed the ball and smacked it. It looked good as it headed straight down toward the green. The pin placement was right down in front today and the ball landing beyond the pin and drained back to the lip of the cup. It just sat there, so David and I started to walk down the fairway and we looked up, the ball must have dropped! When we approached the green, a green's keeper was standing there, he had watched the whole thing. He said the ball stopped at the lip and the next thing he heard was the ball hitting the bottom of the cup.

So on display on my mantle is the ball, the scorecard and the pencil I recorded the ace with. Wonder how long I can get away with it sitting there?

July 4th 2010

2010-07-08T21:15:00.005-05:00

We have been to 2 of the last 3, fourth of July celebrations in Nashville. I find the crowds to be a bit unsettling as does my daughter Nichole. But we both braved the sea of people to see the show. Most look at the fireworks which were spectacular, I watch the people. People can be stupid and if you pay attention, you can find entertainment anywhere.

Stacy loves the fireworks and does not care that you have to be arm pit deep in the crowd, the more the merrier she says.
The General Jackson floated by, docked and the folks on board had the best seats in the house. Next year, this is the way I'm going, and no traffic getting back out of town.

The metro Nashville fire department turned a pumper boat loose to wet the banks of the Cumberland as to reduce a risk of fire. It kind of worked, there were still a few fires that broke out next to LP Field, but the boat was there to put those out.

Kayaks are cool.
Period.

Of course you have to have the local drunk girls do the Charley's Angels pose.

The Nashville symphony was in pace with the fireworks, it was hard to tell considering all the explosions going off you could not hear the music.
Wednesday I was in Huntsville at the United Space Alliance, they oversee the space shuttle program. I tried to get a walk on tryout to be an astronaut. No nachos in space, except in the tube. No thanks.

A framed vest used during the Apollo program.

And I got a hole in one at Mason Rudolph Golf Course on Monday the 5Th of July.

Home All Week

2010-06-24T23:04:00.002-05:00

I'm not used to being home everyday so Stacy and I are adjusting. It's really great because the screen room is finished and it's relaxing to just sit out there, talk, have dinner, listen to the birds sing and watch the sun go down.

I have a honey-do list and actually have time to do the stuff on the list.

I love being home, we have needed this for awhile. All the girls are grown, involved with significant others and no longer living here.

It's our time now and we're going to take it.

It's Riding Season

2010-06-22T22:58:00.005-05:00

I've been riding motorcycles since high school, Stacy rode with me. Then Stacy and I got married and had the girls. Stacy and I would never let our girls ride a motor at all with anyone. Period. My girls could never understand this since my parents and Stacy's parents let us ride. Our explanation was that our parents didn't love us.

After the girls grew up and left the nest, I got the opportunity to ride again, thanks to my buddy David and Stacy. He was selling his pristine VTX1300c and Stacy was letting be buy it from him.

When I got the bike it had about 2,850 miles on it, it now has over 19,000. I put the bike to good use on business trips to Memphis, Chattanooga, Johnson City, Knoxville, and Rockford TN, as well as just cruising.
Got to hit Sonic.

Deal's Gap, North Carolina. 318 curves, 11 miles, 650 pound bike. Had to come back down, 736 curves, 22 miles, same 650 pound bike. Felt like a total body workout when I finished.

I love it when Stacy takes trips with me. My biker babe, I'm lucky, she loves to ride.

Road trip back from Chattanooga.

Got to stop and get some coffee, listen to tunes and answer email while on the road.

Some of the best places to stop and relax, grab a bite and fill up are small roadside spots

Just get on, hold on, and shut up.

If you see this bike, stay back, stay away, or I will kick your door panel in.

Screen Room Installation

2010-06-19T23:52:00.003-05:00

Stacy has wanted a screen ever room since she first saw Don and Bonnie's who live across the street. So once we saved the cash. Don put a plan together and we decided to go forward.

The trusses were ordered and delivered, from this point on, no turning back.
We had to knock down the rails on the deck, get building permits and get ready to go.

David was a big help, he worked with Don when I was traveling.

David and I both learned the business end of a hammer, I loved the pneumatic nail gun.

Don't try this at home, standing on the top rung of the ladder, while balancing something four times your weight is not a good idea. But we did it, so it's OK. No really, don't try this at home, one of the three in this photo is a trained professional. (Don)

At this point I was starting to feel good about the project.

Trusses in place,roof and gutters installed.

The real deal. Planted some more trees for shade.

Reclaiming some space from the sun. Making a nice place to read the paper in the morning or to work.

I want to thank Don and David, their sweat, love and yes blood, build this room.

Forever greatfull.

After Nine Years-Finally......

2010-06-17T22:56:00.003-05:00

I left the house on Monday for a whirlwind tour of my east Tennessee accounts for the last time. It was bittersweet, I was saying goodbye to my clients in those markets and introducing them to the new operations manager I hired to take over the area.

I have a great bunch of employees in the Chattanooga/Cleveland/Knoxville/Rockford markets and made a lot of friends in the past nine years in these towns. I also ate at a lot of places all along the way as well.

I finally convinced our new district manager and our corporate office that I could no longer give the customer service needed for 5400 hours per week of coverage while I traveled so much of the time. I was doing, each week between 1200 to 1500 miles of Tennessee interstates and back roads. Being required to make off hour visits/penetration tests, and clients visits twice a month was a monumental task in itself, add in problems, recruiting, hiring and training I was gone a lot.

My new area is middle Tennessee, I'll have 3180 hours per week and 375 miles round trip, all straight line mostly. Instead of I-40, I-24 and I-75, my area is now I-65, straight up and down the short part of the state.

I could not have maintained the level of service needed to do this job without the support of Stacy. I will be the first to admit I was committed to doing my job, that I would come home and start right back to work when I got home, staying up until I finished.

She was patient, she was kind, no matter how much I would snap at her because of the stress, she would smile and still give me encouragement. She went out of her way to take on the stuff around the house so I would not have to deal with it, and I love her to death.

I have said it before and it still rings true, without her, I am nothing.

I'm looking forward to being home each night and giving her the only thing she has asked for, me.

Looking at Adding a Hobby

2010-06-15T20:43:00.005-05:00

I have hired someone to cover East Tennessee, and my area has been reduced to middle TN and Northern Alabama. From 5,600 hours a week of coverage to 3180 a week. From 1200 miles round trip, to 320 round trip. ( my car is so happy).

My nights away from home for business have come to an end as we know it. Where one to two days a week in East Tennessee have been the norm, now one day a month will be the norm.

Our food budget will rise as I will not be eating out on trips, the biggest adjustment will be Stacy/I cooking more each week.

So I have to find a hobby, since I was told I can't join the Bass Master's circuit, I need some hints. I have asked some blogger and face book friends for ideas. But they were lame, so here are some of mine.

Ride more, a lot more. My ideal trip would be to ride to Key West or to San Diego.
Workin' on this one.

Riding some more.

Find and restore a 66' Mustang, this is my dream.

Really..... girls father's day is coming........

Been a Long Time

2010-06-14T19:05:00.008-05:00

We have been real busy over the past two months to say the least. One of my peers at work was terminated and his load was spread out between the three of us Operations Managers. It added northern Alabama to my area along with coverage to Bristol Virginia.

We have been building a screen room on our deck, Stacy loves to have her quiet time on the deck in the morning. But the angle and direction the sun sets makes the deck hotter than you know where in the afternoon. This will allow us to use the deck all day any day and give me a nice outside place to fire up the Cubans.

We also took a 7 day Caribbean cruise, the preparation for the 7 days out of the office had me working long hours.

I'm happy and elated to report that I have hired an Operations Manager who will be responsible for all of East Tennessee and will free me up to cover middle Tennessee! My overnight travel will all but stop and my work load will be reduced in half. The screen room addition, complete with two ceiling fans for the afternoon heat.The screen panels are actually screen doors and fit right into place and can be replaced easily if damaged. When finished, it will be time for Stacy to start buying more furniture because for some reason, we gave our deck furniture to Mandy and David. Lisa got the old porch swing. I think it was an excuse to buy more stuff, she's worth it.

Then it was cruise time, we started and stopped in San Juan, Puerto Rico. San Juan is a beautiful place.
St Thomas ocean kayaking.

St Maarten, dive helmet diving.

St Lucia, pirate extravaganza.

St Kitts, zip lining above the tree line.

Dominica tubing on the island's longest river. Dominica has 365 rivers on the island.

Barbados catamaran trip.

So to say we have been busy is an understatement.

I hope to be able to update this blog on a regular basis.

It's like therapy for me, and you all know I need therapy.

Finally

2010-04-01T06:37:00.007-05:00

The house is back to where it started at the beginning of February before the great flood. Everything is dry and put back into place. Stacy's happy so, we are all happy.

Next project?

Adding a 380 sq ft screen room on to the deck. Complete with fireplace, lounge chairs, a hammock and porch furniture.

Stacy wants this space to be used for relaxing, family dinners, community group meetings, reading and quiet time.

I feel this should be known as the "Cuban Room", and yes there will be smoke.

How many of you think I'm going to get away with the Cuban Room?

Seven Weeks and One Day

2010-03-21T17:40:00.008-05:00

Saturday morning began as most other Saturdays do, we got out of bed and enjoyed our coffee as we watched the latest news.

I had entered the master bath and brushed my teeth about 8:30am, then went up to the bonus room.

About 9:15am, I heard Stacy call for me in one of those low primal growls. I ran down stairs to find her standing in pooling water in the master bath. I could hear water running, so I opened the cabinets and saw water squirting out of the cold water supply line just above the cut off valve, but below the faucet. I reached in and turned the valve off to stop the leak, when I grasped the supply line connector nut, it was only finger tight.

I grabbed a wrench out of the garage and tightened the connector. I then checked the hot water supply line, same thing, finger tight. I checked all the lines on all then new supply lines in both baths and toilet connections. All finger tight.

Stacy had the contractor on the phone before you could say, well I won't repeat what she was saying.

Anyway, the contractor had someone out in less than an hour and we had an old familiar friend in the master bath again.

Mr. Dehumidifier and Mr. Blower were moved back in. I think these two have moved back in more than my boomerang girls.

Six Weeks and Four Days

2010-03-14T15:07:00.002-05:00

This Tuesday will be six weeks and four days since the big flood. It's also the day we get the new carpet installed! So today after church Stacy and I kind of prepped the house. Moved the photo frames and nick nacks off the furniture, the carpet installer will move the furniture around, but not the small stuff. So on Wednesday we should be back to some kind of normal.

What normal is for us.

Life is to Short

2010-03-11T22:39:00.008-06:00

I've been extremely busy the past few months, and I have not stopped to smell the roses.

It seems that time has been going by so fast and I'm uncomfortable with it's pace.

Case in point, my older brother has always been 13 years my senior, but now that he is 65, he's freakin' old.

My little sister will be 51 tomorrow.

Toddlers I watched grow up are now 17 years old and driving cars.

Longer recovery from workouts, and sometimes the little pains continue.

All my babies are now grown, they are strong independent women and no longer at home. I miss them all, and wish I could see them more often.

I'm a grandfather, who would have thunk it? Let alone live long enough to be one.

From this point forward, I'm going to concentrate what makes my life good.

Stacy.

Because without her, I am nothing.

No one every said on their death bed.

"I wish I spent more time at the office."

Day 22 of the Great Flood

2010-02-27T06:50:00.005-06:00

Finally got both bathrooms back in place and operational. Ordered the carpet last week, this week we were told it won't be manufactured until at least next week. Which means it won't be installed until the week after next, or close to day 32.

But all in all,

we have God who loves us,

a roof over our heads,

a job that keeps me busy,

good friends,

a great church'

and our health.

Above all, I have Stacy, nothing else matters.

Day 17 of the Great Flood

2010-02-22T08:11:00.002-06:00

We are on day 17 of the great flood at our home. So far we have the new tile installed in the guest bath, new tile in the laundry room and the master bath up and running again. Next week we get to look forward to getting new carpet installed.

I'm a little behind schedule today because I had to take the zx2 to the shop for an alternator. The battery light has been coming on and going off over the last few weeks. Now it's staying on longer than off. I did the 73rd oil change yesterday and removed the negative battery cable while the engine was running. The engine died, a sure sign that the alternator was gone.

263,115 miles and counting.

Oh, yea, Stacy's brakes are squeaking, another repair coming soon.

Thank You Dave Ramsey!

2010-02-16T23:09:00.004-06:00

Stacy and I read the Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey about 6 years ago (at her urging). I have to tell you, I was hesitant at first, because I like to buy stuff. Technology stuff. Expensive Tech stuff.

I'm a truly blessed husband, as Stacy HATES to shop.

Anyway, thanks to Ramsey's plan, except for our home we are debt free.

Good thing.

Since December of 2009 we have had to deal with the following:

My car, melt down.

Stacy's Camry, catalytic converter shot.

Burst pipe in house, working on a fix.

But because of our emergency fund, we've got the money to cover deductibles. We also have the cash to replace the zx2.

Good thing. It's got 262,835 miles on it, and as I hit a bump on the way to Knoxville yesterday.

Crack! This crack went from driver's side to center. This morning, it spread all the way across the windshield.

Day 7 of the Flood.

2010-02-12T23:28:00.003-06:00

We are on day 7 of the great flood, the pipe that broke was under the house and was spraying up on to the sub floor. There was also a drain leak in the master. What a mess. Stacy took everything out of the master bedroom closet for the restoration company, and moved things all around. Being an Army wife, she is used to dealing with hardships, and I have got to sing her praises on this one. She has adapted, improvised and overcame.

Stacy's 'closet' just outside the dining room.
Laundry room in the hallway.

Toilet in the tub. Had to rip up the new tile in the guest bath to dry the floor.

We did have a bright spot this evening. We have Emma for a Nana and Poppy sleep over tonight. Emma and I were watching Veggie Tales, 'Saint Nicholas' (my fav) when I looked over and she was 'in' the arm rest pushing buttons on the chair phone.

The effects of Holiday Oreos on a grandchild.

Quaker Steak and Lube

2010-02-09T20:25:00.006-06:00

I left Clarksville this morning in a snow storm and after a brief stop in Nashville got into Knoxville about dinner time.

Next to the hotel is the World Famous, Quaker Steak and Lube. Man vs Food did an episode on the Atomic wings here. So since I was in town and right next door, I wanted to check out the wings. I already tried the burgers here last week.

In the parking lot, getting ready to head in.

Inside, looks like one of my daughters is employed as a valet.
I have more than one daughter.

Tuesday is all you can eat wings. So I ordered all I could eat and an un-sweet iced tea. These were mild wings.
My next round was hot, and yes they were, and yes after an hour I still feel the burn (it's a good burn).
I have to work tomorrow so I didn't try the atomic, maybe next time. I wish I was still in Clarksville so I could stuff my face into the snow to put out the fire.

Mo Snow.....

2010-02-09T07:01:00.002-06:00

When you live in Clarksville on the rain/snow line, you can't rely on the weather people to get it right. So I just go with whatever happens. This morning I was delighted to see light fluffy snowflakes as I got my paper.

Delighted with the snow after the snow hell from two weeks ago? Yep, it didn't stick in Nashville so I didn't take any, "I can't get to work calls".

Big snowflakes.
Montgomery County schools closed again.

Mo snow....

The dogs are not going to like this when I get them up in a few.

Squish Went the Carpet

2010-02-08T22:30:00.008-06:00

I went to the bathroom Friday night and the carpet in the hallway squished between my toes. Carpet squishing is never good on any night, let alone on a Friday. I really don't like it when it happens inside my house.

Stacy asked me to get her steam cleaner, and she got up as much water as she could.

I called a local contractor I know Saturday morning and he came right over. He took a look, said he would be back on Monday morning to rip up the floor and find the leak. I also called my insurance agent who directed me to report the leak, which I did.

I borrowed David and Mandy's shop vac on Saturday and vacuumed the area three times a day until Monday when my contractor came back. The area in front of the bathroom, after the carpet and pad were removed.

The nice view from my home office to the laundry room and guest bath. How lovely. A better view of the area in front of the bathroom, after the vanity was pulled. The source of the leak was not here. After more investigation, a leak was discovered at a drain in the master bath.

The master bath after the vanity and double sink were removed. But, after this drain was patched, a pressure test was done. Guess what? A pressure leak was detected back in the guest bath. Oh Joy.

Who would not like a double sink in their living room? Don't be jealous.

So this evening, we have two showers we can use, no sinks in either bathroom, and one functional toilet in the master bath.

It's all good.

Please pray for Stacy, if you know her, you will know why.

David is a big 34!

2010-02-06T23:50:00.003-06:00

Saturday we celebrated my son-in-law David's 34th birthday. It was the first time since Christmas that we had all the girls, husbands and significant others to the house at one time.

Aunt DiDi and Emma sharing chocolate.

The birthday boy (man).

Emma and David have a special relationship, they became fast friends from the day she was born.

Emma giving David some birthday love.

A good time was had by all.

Friday to Friday-What a Week!

2010-02-05T22:00:00.012-06:00

January 28th, will be a day I remember for at least a week. Returning from a business trip on Thursday night, just in time to be home for the mother of all snow storms to hit middle Tennessee the next morning.

Friday morning came, I jumped to my feet to look out the window only to find, nothing. I had planned on working from home because driving to Nashville would have been too dangerous according to the Channel ___'s (add your station) Weather. If I was as accurate as these guys, I would have been fired along time ago.

Waiting for the storm on Friday, I completed all my reports, watched and watched the sky. I was able to hit Ft. Campbell and retrieve my ironing, still watching the sky. Have lunch at the PX food court while watching the sky. Then made it home, while still watching the sky.

Friday night was a night from hell.

I had employees who could not make it to work, employees who could not make it out of work. Not just in Nashville, but Johnson City, Rockford, Knoxville, Gordonsville, Cleveland and Chattanooga. In all I took/made 83 phone calls from Friday night to Monday morning. I was changing schedules to make sure there was no missed coverage. To those who toughed it out and in some cases pulled a 24 hour shift.

I salute your dedication and service.

Thank you.

Our deck Saturday morning.
People say, "I love the snow. It's so pretty."

Not so pretty when Sammy dumps on the deck. (I found Sammy's little deposits today after the snow melted off the deck.)

Monday it was to the ortho doctor to look at my hand.

My thumb a year ago this week, after a great weekend with Graham in upstate NY. After the check up, no artritis, no bad breaks, just a skier's thumb.

My thumb today after steroid treatments this week. Looking good.

Monday after my orthopaedic appointment for my hand, it was off to Knoxville. Woo Hoo!

Thursday I was already to hit it again in Nashville, when I realized I had worked everyday since January 25th. So I took yesterday, Thursday as a day off, I went geocaching and relaxed.

Part of the green way at the end of Pollard Rd. Some snow remains.

Fencing on the green way.

Trice Landing, New Providence.

Stream feeding Cumberland River at Trice Landing.

Trice Landing with the Cumberland in the backdrop.

Amazing, the weather forecasters on Channel____ are again predicting snow. I have already had one employee call tonight, February 6th at 12:29am about getting to work tomorrow.

Give me a break.

All in all a great week. Tomorrow we celebrate David's 34th birthday. Family get together, my favorite.

It's Been a Long Time

2010-01-31T12:08:00.004-06:00

It's been a long while since I posted something to this blog, I almost gave up on it. Someone became offended/hurt because of something I blogged about. Most know I have can have a caustic sense of humor at times, and I don't pull any punches. That's the way the Good Lord made me and I know that He does not make mistakes.

So I have decided that I enjoy blogging and it has been therapeutic for me as well. I'm in excellent health according to my annual physical that I completed last week.

So I have decided that 2010 will be a more healthy year, cutting back on fast food, working out more and yes, the Cubans will be held to special occasions only.

Let me repeat, cut back, not give up, working out more, not less.

Corn dogs are not fast food, corn dogs have handles, so they are actually a food tool.

I love the sounds and smells of winter.
I took this one on Eastbound I-24 just before Monteagle TN., last week. I always wanted to get this shot, and after traveling there for over 10 years finally got it.

The queen of the backyard during our January 29, 2010 snow storm.

Don't know how much snow you got during this storm, but ours was about ankle deep.

So, this year I will serve more, give more, and always remember that I need to smile more.

New Years Eve In Knoxville

2010-01-02T11:15:00.009-06:00

For the past three years Stacy and I have gone to Knoxville for the New Year's holiday. Two of the three years were awesome, the first and third were the best. Last year was such a disaster, totally destroyed by work. But this year it seemed to go off without a hitch.

First stop after we checked into the hotel, was Wasabi, a great Japanese steak house. This is the sushi bar, they do great things with raw fish. It all looked so good, but we were there for the ringside cooking of the masters who throw food around and the show they put on. The steak melted in our mouths and the rest of the dinner was excellent too. Stacy said it was the best steak she has ever had. I highly recommend Wasabi, Lovell Rd, exit 376, I-40.

Since we finished dinner kind of early, and since we had not been to Walmart in the last 24 hours it was off to the local Wally's. It was about 9:30pm, it was the most deserted Wally's I have ever seen. I thought it was because it was New Year's Eve, nope. The Vols were playing in a bowl game on TV. If you know anything about Knoxville, it's one of the biggest, if not the biggest college football towns in the country.

Want to get into a fight fast in Knoxville? Stand anywhere with a Florida State sweatshirt on and say, "UT has football? Really?"

Bang there it is! The fight starts!

After Wallys, we headed for Downtown and my favorites, people watching.

I'm hoping these are balloon hats.
Downtown Knoxville was set up in a beautiful display of lights, mostly blues and whites,

the lights made it seem more welcoming.Lots more whites and blues, comforting, calming.

More soothing soft blue and white lights.

In case you forget where you are at, there is a big Tennessee sign above this theater.
There was ice skating.
Stacy was drinking. Pepsi.

I had to ask someone why Knoxville used so many blue and white University of Kentucky colors?

Bang, there it is!

The countdown started and we were in the middle of it.

The countdown continues as the big ball starts to drop over Market Square in Knoxville.

Getting closer to 2010.
Two seconds to go...............
Welcome two thousand, ten!

Or, what Stacy is calling it Oh - Ten.

Fireworks, kissing, singing, looking back and saying good-bye, giving thanks to what was and looking forward to what will be.

After the fireworks, I took Stacy's picture with this guy rowing his boat down the sidewalk. People call me crazy. Really, it's a statue of a guy in a rowboat, rowing down the sidewalk.

On January 1st, we slept in and took our time getting home. I took Stacy to one of my favorite places to eat. The Bean Pot in Crossville. Only in the south will you see a sign like the one below, or even need it.

I'm looking forward to, Oh - Ten in so many ways.

I pray this year will be better than the last and that you will find peace and joy in all you do.

Paradise Valley

2009-12-29T23:53:00.005-06:00

There is a part of Clarksville that many never get to see. I have been geocaching for less than a year and it has taken me to places I know I would never have visited. One of those places is Paradise Valley, you won't find it on a map, it's just there. It's between Madison Street and Memorial Drive.

This is the jeep tail down to the valley.
Once in the valley, there is a stream, to small for kayaking, but it sounds great.
You can't hear any traffic, all you do hear is the wind in the trees and the water moving slowly to wherever it meets the Cumberland River miles away.

Looking up you see moss covered rocks and steep cliffs along the way.

A frozen waterfall, yes it was cold this morning, but you had to see this. The green moss encased in frozen wonder.

The old dam, and it's small waterfall.

The view from on top of the dam.

Wow, that was too much like a National Geographic special.

Yea, I had to get that close.

The fun part?

Jumping over this to get to my car.

Christmas Day 2009

2009-12-27T07:42:00.007-06:00

Christmas morning finally arrived after starting way back in Mid-October. All my girls arrived at 6am sharp to start our traditional Christmas morning with Stacy's breakfast casserole and gift exchanging.

Every year we all agree to downscale the giving, we all promise that we will not overdue it the next year. One year we may actually follow through with it, this was not it.

Nichole, Emma, Mandy and West, just getting started. After about an hour, we broke and ate the casserole, then ate some more. After eating, it was back to opening gifts.

Emma spotted her shopping basket and it was just about game over for her. She didn't seem interested in much else until later in the morning.

Lisa, (at least her backside) Emma, Mandy and West, still opening.

David, all but buried in gifts and wrapping paper. Did I mention we were cutting back this year?

This is our step son, Moor-Reece!

Honestly, it's Jerry, a very good friend of the family. We have welcomed him into our home and will miss him as he travels back to Orlando where he lives and goes to school. We were so glad he could join us for the holidays.
Nichole doing sit ups, cause everyone loves her so much and because she is so cute and everyone loves her and she is so cute and.....blah blah blah.....

Emma actually on top of one of her presents unwrapping it.

We exchanged many gifts, but the most interesting and disturbing thing I received was this thing.

It was sent from California from our good friends Larry and Cynthia. As best as we could determine, it was a river rape whistle with compass. That way, I could alert the river people where I was, then be able to describe which way the river people went after being attacked by them.

The best gift, in my opinion this year? A ticket to the CHARGERS/titans game Christmas night.

Oh yea baby!

David and I bundled up before the start of the game in Nashville.

Glad I brought my Bolt hat, it gave the Chargers good luck.

Pregame introductions.We had great seats, here I am enjoying L.T. score a touchdown against the titans.

And the extra point is good!

It was a great Christmas because I got to spend it with the people I love.

I wish everyone a Very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year.

Emma is Two Years Old

2009-12-20T23:05:00.005-06:00

Last Saturday we celebrated Emma's second birthday with a party at Lisa's apartment.

Emma and Lisa chillin' in the chair.
Busting into the presents.
Dress up shoes.

Aunt Didi and Emma playing with babies.
Aunt Didi and Uncle David getting thier book on.
Thanks Poppy, I love the grapes.
Decked out in her bling and dress up shoes.

Best part, the cake, Nana loves the cake.

Kayak Trip 12/21/09

2009-12-20T01:04:00.003-06:00

Ok, this is where I am starting this years kayak trip. Billy Dunlop Park in Clarksville TN. It's a long and curvy route on the Red River, then connecting to the Cumberland behind Two Rivers Mall. Based on my calculations, it's a 2 to 3 day trip.

I have not been on this part of the river before, and Google Maps is sketchy. But if you never try something, you will never know if you can do it.

There will be some shallow points and some areas where I will have to carry my gear, but it's all about the journey.

Stacy would like me to take someone with me, but I have yet to find anyone who will do this with me. Go figure.

Life is what you make it, take some chances, make some choices, just have some fun.

These photos were taken 12/18/09 and the flow looks good.

Emma's New Words

2009-12-20T00:43:00.005-06:00

We met up with Lisa and Emma at the OG this morning. Lisa picked up a shift, so we got to have Emma hang with us all day. Emma got into her car seat and she got ready for our normal Saturday routine.

Strapped into her backseat car seat and ready to go, she gives me the eyes, a slight pout, and says, "Poppy, money." Then, she puts her hand out and repeats her request, "Poppy, money."

I said, "What?"

Emma responds with, "Peeze, Poppy, money."

So, as Stacy explained it, "She said please, give your grand baby some money." So now, I'm being shaken down by another generation of women in this family.

Emma and her "Peeze Poppi Money."

Through the Eyes of a Child

2009-12-16T22:32:00.007-06:00

You have heard that you have to "stop and smell the roses", or "slow down your moving too fast". Either way you look at it, it makes sense. I have been in a crappy mood because I feel Christmas is way to commercial.

Christmas, lately, has been about retail, not Christ. Kick God out of schools, law suits against city's with Nativity scenes, it's all about the bottom line.

I had lost my Christmas spirit until I took Emma and Stacy to the River walk and the lights this past Monday.

Emma was amazed at the surroundings and could not stop pointing at the lights.
She made sure that everyone there knew about the lights.

She truly enjoyed the River walk, and gave me a new perspective.

It's been a long time since I have seen Christmas though the eyes of a child. You know, I can overlook the commercialism, sales margins and the greed of Christmas, knowing that Christmas is about Christ.

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas.

I pray that you find the Light of Christmas, Christ Jesus, this Holiday Season.

May God bless you, may God keep you, and I wish you all the best.

Amen.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING!! humbug!

2009-11-30T10:12:00.007-06:00

OK, before I get started on this entry, I am not anti-Christmas. I am anti-commercialism when it comes to Christmas. I have fond memories of Christmas as a child, who wouldn't, we had the traditional rotating aluminum tree complete with the ever changing red, blue and green light wheel.

I totally dislike, no hate, going into any place retail and seeing Halloween candy in the same aisle as the Christmas decorations! I'm not referring to after Halloween candy, I'm talking about Oct 15th!

So when Stacy said we were going Christmas shopping this past weekend, I could feel the fun coming a full week ahead. I'm not one for crowds or the crazies I know would be out, but people get more stupid this time of year.

It's all about sales and and not about Christ, oh no, can't have Christ in Christmas anymore, but give me your cash, cause you gotta have a new TV. Get in line at midnight, risk your life and get trampled for an electronic hamster.

While your at it take down the Nativity scene at the local park because the ACLU decides what is right for our community.

We started Saturday at the place most Saturdays start, Wally's. Check out this website if you don't believe me that the crazies are out. www.thepeopleofwalmart.com

This exercise stuff was on sale, I've got one at the house. I should use it more, which I plan to do. According to a good friend you should park these next to the laundry room, because for most, they will become clothes hangers. Then it was off to Dollar Tree to look through the 100's of rolls of wrapping paper. My lovely wife Stacy, sometimes can't remember some details of little things, but she can remember what wrapping paper we used for the past 2o years so we dug through every roll to find just the right ones.
By then it was time to grab something to eat. We have the same conversation each and every time we go to eat. I want to take her to where she would like to go, and she says she can't decide and for me to pick. So I whipped into Micky D's for a quick meal. After lunch we went next door to Logan's for some gift cards.
The it was off to the OG for gift cards. Here's a curious question. If we were going to Logan's and the OG for gift cards, why didn't we eat lunch there?

Now we had to go to Kohl's because Stacy had a 15% off coupon, and 15% is better than 0% right? Yep. But if you don't spend it, can you save 100%? Nope.

Next stop? My second favorite place in the world, right after the dentist.

The Mall.

First stop was the Gap, honestly I thought she had been kidnapped she was in there for so long. After the Gap, I became the pack mule.

After the mall, more gift cards.

Finally, a place I could shop and look around. I did enjoy myself during the day as I love to people watch and there was a lot to look at. But most of all, I got to spend the day with Stacy so I overlooked the crowds and the commercialism.

Christ is the reason for the Season.

I just wish more people would remember that.

My 52nd Birthday Party

2009-11-14T07:26:00.003-06:00

While Stacy will be the first to admit she should never be the one that people give cameras to and ask if she could take their photo. I have to admit she is getting better. These are a few of the ones she took with all the girls at the house for my birthday party.

Me opening gifts from the girls, Reese's, cigars, a Bass Pro Shop gift card and an framed eagle print with a calendar.
Me displaying all my goodies.

Emma loves David, here she is snuggling up to her David.

All of us enjoying everyone being there.

I will forever look back at these photos as a reminder of the wonderful time I had with my girls.

A picture is worth a thousand words.

Riverview Cemetary-Hopkinsville KY

2009-11-08T20:37:00.005-06:00

I had a nice ride out to Hopkinsville after church, I took the bike because you don't get too many 75 degree days in November. The reason for the ride is I researched some geocaches in Christian County largest cemetery, Riverview.

The road entering the cemetary from the first entrance off of S. Virginia.

The half full trees and the colors were an interesting contrast against the sky.
I love the shadows of these place.

Amazing there was no one else, except for the caretaker on site.

The Hille plots, history all over the place.

World War I Memorial.Edgar Cayce, the "Sleeping Prophet" is buried here somewhere. Guess he didn't see this coming.

www.edgarcayce.org

Riverview also has a great number of Confederate Soldiers buried here as well.

You really want to know about your community, check out the cemetery for a real lesson.

Time Out

2009-11-04T19:00:00.003-06:00

Lisa has been using the "Time Out" punishment for Emma. Lisa is trying her best to be a good momma and setting limits for Emma and when Emma crosses the line it's time out.

Only problem is Nana and Poppy who love to look at her in time out cause she is so cute sitting there talking to herself.

Poppy got in trouble for taking this picture of Emma in time out. What are Poppy's for anyway?

Nichole's Old Maid Celebration

2009-11-04T18:36:00.002-06:00

Friday night ended with what is known as Nichole's birthday month, yes month. Some celebrate birthdays, some stretch it to a week, not Nichole, it's a month.

She has worn her little crown for her birthday for as long as I can remember,

which seems like a lifetime now since she is now over 30. She don't look a day past 25 (according to her.) The girls are blessed with Stacy's genes, all the girls look younger than they are.

Nichole checking out the birthday gifts, she got some purses and old lady stuff.

Chilling for the rest of the evening.

Now that she has passed 30, she will be 40 sooner than she thinks.

Ramblings of a Bored Mind

2009-10-21T11:28:00.006-05:00

Now that all the girls are out of the house, we have the house to ourselves. Except for a two week period, we have never had it to ourselves since we had children. We have boomerang kids, they were always coming back for one reason or another and were always welcome to do so, and still are.

Now that I have my garage back, I have decided that I need to take up more hobbies, hobbies that I of course can procrastinate over, because I don't like the pressure of having to do stuff.

These hobbies will be things that are of course fun first and probably a little dangerous knowing my history with power tools.

I want to restore a 66 Mustang, just like the one in my dreams and this photo. I had one, a hard top, but traded it in on a "family" car a few months after Nichole was born. Getting Nichole into her car seat of this two door was difficult. I'm not blaming Nichole for me having to lose the Stang, it was the right and safe thing to do at the time. The "family" car we bought? A Renault Alliance.

Sporty ain't it? I want to ride more, put my feet up and pull the throttle way back. After 21 years in the Army, and being retired from it for 13 years this month, seems like an eternity ago. I don't miss the deployments or being shot at, I do miss the soldiers I had the honor of serving with. So, I want to volunteer to serve those soldiers through the veterans administration.

With the girls gone, it means Stacy and I can have more time to do the things we want to do, when we want to do them. We can travel more, and we look forward to this time in our lives. It also means in the morning I don't have to worry about getting dressed before I head to the coffee pot.
I'm also looking forward to more grill time.

Jerry's Visit

2009-10-07T05:22:00.009-05:00

My nephew Jerry came out to visit us for the weekend, he had a airline voucher he had to use before it expired next month. Wow, we feel special that he used it to visit us, actually honored that he wanted to visit with us. Jerry is a search and rescue swimmer with the US Navy and has two tours to the gulf and 15 years active duty.

Since he had never visited us before we wanted to make sure he had a good time.

So on Saturday night we were off to Oktoberfest for some oomph oomph music, food and for everyone else some beer.

Aunt Stacy, I'm telling you the funnel cakes are over there.
Mandy getting her chicken hat on, as the moon rises over Jerry's head.

Stacy, Jerry and Mandy getting the funnel cake dance on.

Mandy, Jerry, David and Stacy discussing the finer things about life.

Sunday it was Grace Community Church first, then we all had dinner at home, and relaxed.

Jerry's comment about Chad's message and GCC, "It Rocks!" Stacy and I took Monday off to show Jerry Nashville, so we all loaded into the car and headed out. But we had to stop at Moss' for breakfast first!

We hit Opry Mills first, I wanted to check on a couple of handguns at the Bass Pro Shop and check out any new kayaking stuff before my fall river trip next week.

Our first Elvis sighting outside Black Lion, "thankya, thankya ver much."

Second Elvis sighting on Broadway, Jerry is not sure about the skinny or fat Elvis, but has the hots for the Dead Elvis

Third Elvis sighting, someone stole his mic. Best he has ever sounded.

All this Elvis stuff was making me hungry, so off to Jack's BBQ on Broadway. That's some good BBQ. You have got to try the sweet/hot BBQ sauce.

Fourth and final Elvis sighting, Jerry and Elvis were standing on each other blue suede shoes and crying out in pain.

After a ride down to Gigi's to get some cupcakes (19th and Broadway), it was time to head home.

Once we got home, we decided that it was time to eat, but could not decide what to eat.

So I fired up the grill and did some steaks.

These were soooo good.

After dinner while sitting on the deck, a little blonde girl showed up.

Her name is Carly, and is the ugliest dog ever.

After dinner, we all sat on the deck around the fire ring, Jerry and I burning Cubans and visiting with the rest of the family.

I hope Jerry enjoyed his visit as much as we enjoyed him visiting.

Wendy's BIG Double

2009-09-22T18:02:00.004-05:00

I dropped off my shirts to be pressed at a local cleaners after I cut the grass. I was starving, I saw Wendy's across the parking lot and remembered the commercial from last night about the .99 big double cheese burgers. So I ordered one and a large drink.After fishing around the bag, I finally found it. Not so big.

Biker's Who Care Toy Run

2009-09-19T20:46:00.005-05:00

I had the honor of participating in my first Leslie W. Watson Memorial Toy Run, today was it's 28th annual run. We started at Veterans Memorial Plaza.

(Looking toward Pageant Lane)

The line up started at noon, I have never seen so many bikes and supporters. I was told this run was the biggest toy run in Tennessee. I saw plates from as far a Colorado, Arkansas and Florida.

Looking back down Commerce Street.Could not have rode without the bike. Toy strapped to the seat.
Getting ready to ride, bikers start your engines!
Governor's Square Mall, where the ride ended. Nice that so many people gave to those who are not as fortunate.

Got My Garage Back!

2009-09-17T21:24:00.003-05:00

I got my garage back, and turned it into another man-cave. I built the ideal workbench from the ground up. The entire supply list:

15 - 2"x4"'s

1 - 4'x8' sheet of plywood

1- sheet of peg board with pegs.

Now I have plenty of room for my projects.

I have my tools at arms reach so I can do all my projects.

Now all I need are some projects.

Nashville City Cemetery

2009-09-14T22:39:00.009-05:00

I got bored with looking out my window at the ladies of Murfreesboro Road this afternoon and decided to get out of the office. I started Geocaching earlier this year and it has taken me to some interesting and historic places.

These photos were taken at the Nashville City Cemetery. Lots of Nashville's and the country's historic figures are buried here. I was surprised at who is here, some confederate, some union, but make no mistake, all American.

William Carroll, Governor of Tennessee for 12 years.

Some of the grounds.
Richard Ewell-Died 1872 (Google all of this-cool)

The Tile Project

2009-09-12T01:17:00.006-05:00

Just a bunch of photos of the tile project.

A Long Wonderful Saturday

2009-09-06T06:46:00.017-05:00

I had a plan to clean out the garage this holiday weekend, I mean really clean it out. At least two trips to the landfill, if it had not been used since we moved in over two years ago, it was going out. (except tools of course)

About 9:00am, our neighbor Don, came to the door and asked if we wanted to get some breakfast at Moss' and go the Kentucky lake for a walk. A little hesitant because of my garage plans, we decided to go. What should have been an easy get up and go, turned into a small packing event complete with snacks and a small cooler. Then breakfast, the Saturday trip to Wally's, then off to the lake.

First stop was the TN-KY rest stop just past exit 1 going west. I was sent in to get a map of KY. Who needs a map? Gas tank full? Yes? No map needed.

So off we go again, with the constant chatter in the back seat from Stacy and Bonnie. Did I say constant? Let me say it again. Second stop was KenLake state park, I had never been here so it was a good thing. I started exploring while the ladies headed to the rest room, still "chatting".

There is a beautiful view of the lake overlooking the lodge's pool area. Next we were off to Kentucky Village in the Land Between the Lakes area. We drove around and around looking for a place to take a walk, but decided to take a dam trip instead.

I took a bunch of dam photos, this was the best dam photo of all the dam photos.
Kentucky Village was also holding the "Widow's Son's" Bike event. So I got to see some awesome bikes as well. (Still chatting)

After our dam trip it was time to hunt something for lunch. The two backseat coupon queens were busy looking for the best deal as I sat in the front seat losing weight. To the ladies credit they found a great Arby's coupon and in we went. (Still chatting)

Our dam lunch.

Everyone knows how much I love craft fairs, so off to Grand Rivers we went next.

Between the craft fair in Grand Rivers and the "Widow's Son's" bike event at Kentucky Village, this was the best of both worlds. I made a comment about how much "crap" was here and was corrected by a lady walking the same direction, that it was a "craft" fair. I think I made my point the first time.

Stacy and company found this booth that had these little hair "things" and for the rest of the day had a great time playing with these "things".

I also found a few "things" I could use as well.

After the ride back to Clarksville, and destroying some Sloppy Joe's and fries, I had to agree, it was an excellent day. I got to spend it with a wife who loves me, friends who care about me, so it did not matter where I was.

Looking back this morning at the long day it made me think, time will always be your enemy.

There is never enough time but, you can make time for the things that you want to do.

You can always clean your garage tomorrow, after all it's full of 'stuff' that will be in the landfill long after your gone. Make time for your family and friends today, if you invest in them wisely, they will be around for eternity.

The Little Ford That Could - 250,000 Miles

2009-09-03T17:07:00.002-05:00

Well, the Ford made it, 250,000 miles. Now on to half a million.

David and Mandy's Wedding

2009-08-31T13:54:00.019-05:00

Finally got the last one married, David took Mandy to be his wife last Saturday. It was a long time in coming, but for some reason the last week was the worst.

I got to share my home with some of the ladies in Mandy's bridal party. I should say, I tried to share but give a woman a bathroom and they take both.

This was what the girl's bathroom looked like and here is where they should have stayed. But nooooooo................
This is the bathroom that I share with Stacy, but the rest of the girls thought that they could use this one too. They just moved in with the curling/straightening iron, make up, shaving stuff and even left one of those pink body wash sponges.

Saturday I had to announce that I would like to use one of the toilets for what they were intended for. No one moved. So, I warned I was going out back. No one moved. So it was out into the backyard to, excuse the term. "Pee under the tree".This is the is the start of the rehearsal, at Cole Park on Ft. Campbell.

Awaiting Mandy's instructions.

Mandy giving instructions.

"Do this, don't do that. Walk like this, no dad not like that."

Girls taking a break in the hallway.

Checking out the multimedia for the event.

Ok, get out of my face dad.

DAD, I SAID GET OUT OF MY FACE!

After rehearsal, it was off to eat great quantities of Mexican food, and boy did we.

Dan, Don, and the back of Shane's head.

More wedding party chip eating.

After the rehearsal dinner, the party moved to Brian and Shane's. Let's just say, no one got hurt, no one landed in jail and no one died.

Mandy getting her fight club on.

Poster children for why you party like it's 1999.

Mo-ne-ka and Mandy.

The men met at Moss' for breakfast the day of the wedding.

Since I had some time between the breakfast and with wedding, I played 18 holes at Cole Park to relax and reflect.

Maid of Honor and the Bride.

The groom (r) and the groom's men.

All my beautiful ladies.

(Second from the right is my favorite.)

Beauty and the Beast.

The Bride and her court.

My best bud David Graham. The lovely lady with him, his wife Lori.

Our pastor Chad Rowland conducting the ceremony.

The whole wedding party.

Photo that I could not post.

The car after it was decorated.

All the ladies dancing on the bar in Nashville.

(yes, all the ladies)

I want to wish David and Mandy a lifetime of happiness.

469 Miles To Go

2009-08-25T16:49:00.010-05:00

Today I was out running around in the zx2, it's been slow to start when fired up for the first time in morning. I suspected a weakening battery for about a month now.

Knowing that this old faithful would have to be replaced soon and having just 469 miles to go for a quarter million I have been nursing this little Ford for well over a year.

It's also very comforting knowing that the cash for a new car is sitting in the bank just waiting for the Ford to just quit running.

So today while at Rural King I got back in and the old girl gave it her best and made the awful I'm not going to turn over noise, then just click, click......nothing.

So, I went back into Rural King and bought a battery. Then I went back in and bought a crescent wrench to disconnect the terminal clamps. After I got the old one out, I lifted the new one into place only to find it didn't fit. So back into the store I went with the new and old battery.

After finding the right one, I was back in the parking lot, got the new one in and turned the key.

Nothing.
I called Stacy to come and bring the jumper cables just in case, so she leaves having lunch with a dear friend of hers to rescue me.

So I got back under the hood and started looking. I grabbed the negative cable and it came off the terminal and was now in my hand. So now I have to go back in and buy a new terminal clamp.

I get back to the car only to find that the nut holding the negative clamp to the wires is frozen solid and corroded. Back in I go to buy a pair of visegrips to use with my new crescent wrench, then back to take the old clamp apart.
Meanwhile somewhere on Riverside drive is Stacy fighting traffic because of the Kraft St road work.

I finally got the nut to free up and got the wires back on the clamp and the clamp back on the negative terminal. I get in, say a quick prayer, and she starts right up and is purring like a kitten.

I called Stacy to turn her around, only to find out she is just about to turn into the parking lot. Happy that I got the car started and not having to spend the time car shopping 4 days before Mandy's wedding, she said she would follow me home.

We got home OK, and I thanked her for coming to my rescue. She said it was the least she could do.

So, the countdown to a quarter of million continues.

Kayaking-Again-Still-I Love It

2009-08-17T01:09:00.005-05:00

I got a chance to kayak with a good friend this past weekend. I worked for Donald at Mitsubishi in Hopkinsville Ky over 12 years ago.

I met Donald again at Grace Community Church about a year and a half ago. Donald and Laura were in one of our community groups.

Donald wanted to try kayaking, so he borrowed one and we set out.

Donald gearing up at McGregor Park.

Donald, still gearing up.

On the Red River fishing. This is so relaxing, if you have never tried it, you have to do it at least once.

Does history repeat? This was Clarksville's first marina. I have posted photos of this place before. It's located just off Kraft St. on the Red River.
Water level on the river.
Me, the kayak guy, with a Cuban.
Really, this is exercise, you don't believe me, try it.

Mandy and David

2009-08-15T21:18:00.009-05:00

Today, I could not be more proud of my daughter Mandy and her fiance David. David is a baby Christian who has come to love the Lord, and Mandy has rededicated her life. Today both were baptised by one of our co-pastors, Chad Rowland of Grace Community Church. Chad will also marry them two weeks from today.

I pray and give thanks to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for David. Stacy and I truly welcome him into our home and hearts as a true son. I also give thanks that The Lord has brought David into Mandy's life.

David and Chad.

There are times for tears of joy.

Today was one of those days.

Community Group Day at The Lake

2009-08-09T12:13:00.003-05:00

Saturday, our community group went to the lake as a fellowhip event and had a great time. This was a three hour tour, the weather started getting ruff the tiny ship was.........

Our Captain Shannon (l) and Stacy get ready to dock and pick up some of our group.

Scottie and Jennifer on the dock. Complete with minnow bucket cooler.

Shannon, Scottie, Jennifer, Sheri and Stacy.

Me, Stacy, Jennifer, Sheri and Clint. We had to tie a line to Stacy to keep her from floating away. I was surprized she got in considering the snakes, fish, turtles and water. Yes, the water.

Jennifer's raft spring a leak and she had to retreat.

The millionaire and his wife.

The wake we caused.

The professor and Mary Ann

Docking at Prizer Point for lunch.

Prizer Point's Marina.

Monkey See, Monkey Do.

2009-08-01T14:00:00.008-05:00

Ever wonder where kids pick up habits? Some of them are not taught, but observed.

All my girls were in Nashville at David's Bridal getting Mandy's wedding dress fitted.

Although I put my elliptical machine together this morning, I was keeping an eye on Emma so exercising on the machine was out. So I put her into the Jeep stroller for a short run around the neighborhood.

I looked down to see her trying to dial her cell phone while driving, I wonder where she learned that.
Still dialing.

Then I heard her say, "Hi, hi, hi, no. No, shup, shuup, No, No! Fine!" She learned that from listening to her momma talk to her daddy.

Now I got it, ya gotta hold the phone with your ear and shoulder as you drive.
I have heard stories of my Pop driving like this only he has a double chili dog in his other hand.

Sixteen Miles of Water

2009-07-25T20:46:00.016-05:00

I got the chance to hit the river and kayak today, first time this year. I may have been a little over confindent in my planning of this trip. I put in the river at mile 143 of the Cumberland River, just north of Cheatham Dam. My destination was McGregor Park at mile 127. With all my charts, planning and GPS, I did not plan on the wind.

The wind blew straight in my face no matter what direction or curve in the river I was heading.

I was traveling lite, as today was only a day trip. I am thankful that I had my favorite protein and carb sandwiches with me. AKA, peanutbutter and Strawberry Jelly.

Other supplies, cigars, Camelbak full of water, 4 additional bottles of water and 2 Diet Dews, and my emergency/survival stuff.

Familiar face, the kayak guy, complete with Cuban.

Downed trees along the shore.
Nice wide open river.

More river.

Yes, more river.

This is the McAdoo Creek inlet to the Cumberland.

River mile 135.6 is the at the mouth of McAdoo Creek.

Everytime I hit the river the cows follow me.

I heard a horn blow, loud, real loud.

I turned around just in time to see a barge taking a short cut around the river's bend. That's also where I happend to be floating at the time. I paddled backward as hard as I could and jumped out just as it passed by.

Hugging the shore line to get out of the wind.

Using the Clarksville Conservation Club as a windbreak.

The fishing was pretty good as well. Bluegill.

Large Mouth Bass.

And even turtles.

Fishing with everything tied down, learned a lesson last year when one of my poles went airborne after a vicious hit.

The Highway 13 bridge.

What's left of the boat ramp at Fairground's Park, I had to paddle farther down to McGregor Park for Stacy to pick me up.

A different view of the Corman Railroad bridge. Never seen anyone use a dog for bait before.

All finished and back on dry land. My arms ache, but all in all was a great day of kayaking the river, fishing and a great workout.

Of course, no fishing trip would not be the same if I didn't catch some of David Morey's favorities.

Tree Bass.

No More Golf!

2009-07-22T07:27:00.005-05:00

Yesterday after wandering downtown Clarksville, with rain threatning, Stacy wanted to go golfing.

She must have known it was going to be a good day.

Here she is coming out of work all ready to hit the links.

She started taking lessons as a surprise 50th birthday present to me. Who would have thought that after only two years she would beat me.

When she saw her score after we finished the nine holes, a 48, she could not talk, I wish it had stayed that way.

Her game like always was persistent and straight, I was all over the place. Not taking anything away from her, but I could not hit a volleyball with a stick yesterday.

After repeatedly seeing Stacy with her fingers forming the letter "L" on her forehead and mouthing the word loser, she said she would take me to CiCi's so I could gorge myself in Pizza.

And I did.

Goofing off in Clarksville

2009-07-21T20:26:00.004-05:00

I was goofing off downtown Clarskville today doing some errands and looking for some geocaches as well.

One of the geocaches had to do with exhibits inside the Customs House. If you have never been inside you need to visit. Interesting exhibit about Clarksville's roll and preperation during the cold war.One of two scale train sets, this one a replica of Clarksville.

The bronze guy and I in front of the courthouse.The newspaper, "The Day After" the bronze dude is reading about the 1999 tornado.

The courthouse. There is an awesome hotdog vendor here.

When I walk around downtown, no matter what city I am in, I always like to look up. You would not believe what you can miss if you don't look up once in awhile.

I'm sure most locals have seen this mural, but did you know there are 15 historic places listed?

One of the caches I was looking for had to include a photo of my GPS and the cache. This was an extremely cropped photo as to not give away it's location.

Strawberry Field Bird Bath.

Never stop and take photos on the tracks. Especially if you have a Ford with 246,545 miles on it.

Saturday with Pop

2009-07-19T06:49:00.011-05:00

Nichole planned a wedding shower for Mandy today, so I got to find something for Emma and I to do while all those ladies were at our house. There would be cucumber sandwiches, veggie trays, foo foo punch and little party games. We were going to need more then that on a Saturday.

We started out at about 9am, our first stop? The park. Emma no longer needed any help when climbing on the outdoor equipment.
The slide had a little dew on it, but that didn't stop Emma. She was doin' the dew.
Wow, steel cars.
Nana, Auntie Coco and DeDe need cars like this. They don't go to fast, have no bumbers to crush, and they have standard Flintsone brakes.

Then it was on to Rural King so Emma and I could check out the power tools and man stuff.

Then we headed to Ft. Campbell so Pop could pick up some cigars.

First we had to stop and get something to eat at the PX's food court. I got Emma the chicken fingers, they looked like chicken shaped like little crowns. Growing up my chicken never looked like that. Before I could get Emma's chicken cooled down a little, she was all over my fries.

Fries in the left and chicken crowns in the right, my two fisted eater.

Bellies full and cigars in tow we headed out toward the mall to see the balloon making clowns, inflatibles and face painting.

Emma made it to the Mall, but except for the stroller ride, that's all she did.

At Border's books.

At Verizon.

Enjoying the inflatibles.

She slept through the face painting.

Still sleeping while the clown made the animal balloons.

Emma! Your missing the Chic Fil A Cow!

So, since it's Saturday we have got to go to Wally's. I must have thought it outloud, because as soon as I did Emma woke up and was ready to go.

We went to Wally's with no list, only got a basket to put Emma in. Came out with Strawberry Whoppers.

Life is good.

Now it's time to go home and get all those ladies out of the house.

The Heart of Dixie

2009-07-11T07:32:00.004-05:00

I was traveling back from Chattanooga and decided to take the long way home as I like to do when I take the bike on a business trip. This time it was through Alabama.

Now before you start thinking about geography, I dropped down I-59 just outside of Chattanooga. I spent about 20 miles in western Georgia before I hit the Alabama state line.

I stopped at the visitor's center when I entered the state and found this plaque dedicated to the Armed Forces of the United States, nice.

Following back roads, I came to Russell Cave. I was trying to make my way up to Monteage from the backside of the mountain then get back on I-24.

After Russell Cave I roared back down the small country roads, the road I was on kept getting smaller, tree covered and had more bumps than I cared for.

After negotiating a sharp turn, the road I was on turned to gravel and ended. Because of the shadows of the trees I did not realize it until I was in it. Scary moment, especially when the banjo music started. I did not notice I was in Tennessee until I finally got turned around and headed back out.

Never thought I would ever be thankful to be back in the Heart of Dixie again.

Now We're Eating!

2009-07-05T07:48:00.006-05:00

Emma started using utensils to eat, and since doing so, everything has to be put on a fork or spoon.

Breakfast tastes better when you can finally eat it yourself. But this mushy stuff is getting old mom.

Praise Jesus, I can feed myself.

I'm a big girl now!

Praise Jesus, I can feed myself out in restaurants!

Pop, we have GOT to find my own steel stuff.

Quanity is not what I had in mind, I'm thinking BIG Pop!

Now your talking, bring on the big girl food!

Where it All Started

2009-06-27T07:54:00.007-05:00

As most of those who follow this blog, you know that Stacy and I are high school sweethearts. This is the front of Mt. Miguel HS where we met.

It looked a lot different this time, instead of a great view of the desert mountains, there is now a 30 foot tall wall that now hides the freeway.

This is now a stucco company, in 1975, it was a movie theater, it was Stacy and my first date. We saw Young Frankenstein.

Across the parking lot from the movie theater was and still is, "Foster's Freeze." Best hamburgers in Spring Valley and the greatest soft serve in the valley.

The little house on Skyline Drive where Stacy lived in Lemon Grove.

The house I grew up in on Broadview Street in Spring Valley. I used to walk to Stacy's house and back just about every night.

The El Cajon valley that we both love so much.

On this trip it was all about what Stacy wanted to eat. Although I did get in a few chili dogs, it was all about rolled tacos and carne asada burritos for her. I don't think we had a home cooked meal the whole time we were there. I was suppose to get homemade meatballs, but my brother got lazy so I got them at Fillippi's instead.

Stacy with her best friend from high school, Cindy (l), my godson Stephen, and his girlfriend Megan.

Megan, Stacy and Cindy sitting outside Costco after eating a huge vanilla and chocolate dipped ice cream.

I was a great vacation, it was great to attend Andi and Ted's wedding, seeing family and friends and even jumping off the house into the pool.

No bumps, no bruises and no scars on this trip. I like it.

Eagle Crest

2009-06-22T18:22:00.005-05:00

Nice easy day at Eagle Crest Golf Club just outside the San Diego Wild Animal Park in San Pasqual.

Stacy on the driving range.

Looking down the fairway towards the mountains.

More fairways, just relaxing enjoying the great weather and vacation.

The roadrunner.

The roadrunner catching a lizard for lunch, the coyote was no where in sight.

The 10th tee box.

Peaceful day of golf.

Looking back at the 15th fairway.

Peter Cotton Tail hopping down the bunny trail.
The 18th green.

I have enjoyed this vacation with no cell phone, no work email and no distractions.

Not to mention eating out all the time, wait, that's normal.

Father's Day 2009

2009-06-22T08:05:00.006-05:00

Father's Day started out quiet and remained that way for the rest of the day. I got up early, grabbed some coffee and started out looking for a few geocaches. After I found them I stopped off at the 7-11 to get Stacy some blueberry coffee.

We attended the Pomerado Christian Church in Escondido, the same church Andi was married in the day before. The Pastor, Evan Foote lives next door to my brother and it's a wonder story of salvation for my family. One day I will share it here.

Stacy and my "much" older brother Nick looking a Gunner's BMW.

After church we headed the short distance to National City to La Vista Memorial Gardens. This is where my dad is laid to rest.

Yes, this is a mariachi band playing in the background. I have never seen a mariachi bank play anywhere but a Mexican restaurant. But here they were, walking and playing for tips to whoever visited a late loved one.

Playing for the next group of mourners.

Once back at home, Stacy and Nick set out getting the goodies ready for lunch and the BBQ (grilling) to follow.

Nick, Jerry and Stacy enjoying noting but the day.

Jerry and his son Trevor talking about life and other things.

I love these cactus, the flower bulbs on them are called prickly pears and once you peal the stickers off you can eat them like apples.

Chilling by the pool enjoying a nice Cuban on Father's Day.

My nephew Jerry and his wife Jeanne. Jerry is a rescue swimmer in the Navy and Jeanne works for Sharps.

Father's Dad had to end, but I'm glad we got to spend it with my brother and got to visits our Dad's place of rest, Mariachi band and all.

Andi's Wedding

2009-06-21T09:39:00.006-05:00

My niece, Andrea got married yesterday to a wonderful man, Ted. This is the one of the reasons I went to vacation in San Diego.

Andi and Ted's wedding rehearsal on Friday evening.

The bride and groom leaving the church.

Ted and Andrea Ender Palmer
Looking over the valley at the church in Escondido.

Stacy in the church parking lot looking great.

My brother Nick, sister Shari and I.

I almost took this off the wall so I could place it over our fireplace at home.

The wedding cakes. Four of them, chocolate, chocolate, fruit and lemon.

Ted and Andi making thier escape after the reception.

Vacation-San Diego

2009-06-19T08:06:00.007-05:00

Stacy and I finally are getting away for a much needed vacation. We usually take these trips at seperate times, because I like to get distracted and move all through them at a hectic past, she likes to take it slow.

Stacy giving Mandy, aka, "The Worrier" last minutes instructions as we eat breakfast at the Nashville airport.

As we took off, I could see my office building from the right side of the plane. If you look closely you can see the hookers in the parking lot.

I can't even escape WalMart here either, Stacy is going to keep those in blue working anywhere she can.

The night skyline from Coronado.

We also went to Westfield Mall to look for a "clutch" I was looking for a car part, everyone else was looking for a small purse. Go figure.
Stacy making her par put at Willow Creek in Santee. Got me and David a logo ball.

More chillin' around the pool.

I met Randy (l) and Rick (r) in San Diego, then hit the Hard Rock before going geocaching.

Climbing back up the hill in Balboa Park after a muli-cache.

This is the elusive southern California Strawberry bush. I have no idea of how this got here.

This is not the typical California girl I was hoping for, this lady had more hair on her legs then I did. I was so amazed I had to take this picture.
Andi, Stacy, Denise and Nick in the shade by the pool.

More photos to follow when I have time, too busy enjoying the great weather.

VACATION!!

2009-06-15T09:15:00.004-05:00

Stacy and I are going to San Diego tomorrow for 8 freaking days of vacation. I will be running around doing the Southern California stuff, and she will be relaxing.

Woo Hoo!

Updates, photos here, if I have time.

Wondering In East Tennessee

2009-06-07T00:45:00.005-05:00

I started my weekend off by leaving home on Thursday afternoon.

Just a shot of the Nashville skyline from I-40 as I was headed east.

So many emails from Tony later, I was en route to Knoxville. (I will not mention that he emailed my on Thursday night about a conference call I needed to be on four days prior.)

I had a scheduled meeting with one of my Knoxville clients this afternoon at 3pm, she called me early this morning to say she needed to push it back to 7pm. I had not planned to be in Knoxville that long so I had to find something to do.

My nephew, Jerry loves the Tennessee Vols, so I climbed a fence and got this shot of Neyland Stadium.

Then I was real hungry, so I went to Cracker Barrel to get something lite, like this half pound cheese burger and fries.

This was a quiet place to stop and reflect, you never know where the rest of you ends up cause your dead and who cares anyway. As long as you are a follower of Christ, who cares where your remains, remain.

Just inside the Rockford City limits, I hope my home never floats away.

I got a chance to nap at the local mall, they have what Stacy calls old men seats. I put my sun glasses on and kicked back in the recliners and dosed for about 2 hours.

Nice.

Rub a Dub Dub

2009-06-05T17:58:00.002-05:00

We we're keeping a not so keen eye on Emma Wednesday night as Lisa was at work. Stacy was filling the tub for Emma's bath and shut off the water and was getting her PJ's, when she heard the splash. Stacy was in the bathroom at the time so there was no real danger. Emma apparently reached in to get her bath toys and flipped in.She was madder than a wet hen (pun intended)
After she was already in, she started to play.

In reality, if you have toddlers at home, keep an eye on them and please men and women, put the seat and lid down so that the little ones will not flip in.
zx2 update, 244,444.

Bubba the Wonderdog

2009-06-01T16:05:00.006-05:00

Just about 14 years ago Stacy and I went to a Sunday School social at the home of Mike and Patsy Collins. Mike had a few farm dogs then and one of then gave birth to a litter of 13. During our visit Mike took me out to the barn to see if I wanted to take one home for my girls. I said no thanks, the girls would say they would take care of a new puppy, but it would wear off and then I would have to take care of it. Mike said, "you need to take this little one home, he's the runt of 13 and can't get into nurse because of his bigger brothers and sisters." I still said no.

We went back to Mike's farm the next week for a dinner and Mike again took me out to the barn and reminded me again that the little runt was going to die if I did not take it home. I again said no. So Mike brought the runt to Stacy.

The runt weighed in a about a pound and a half, and did not even fill up her hand, she fell for the girls saying they would care for it and so Bubba was named because he was a farm dog.

Stacy took the runt to the vet and was now feeding it vitamins through an eye dropper. The runt was so weak it could not walk, but despite this Stacy would take the little guy outside where it would take a step and fall over, but before it did, he would do his business. But the runt never had an accident in the house that I can remember.

Well the runt turned into our 75 pound Bubba the Wonderdog.

Although big now, Bubba never thought he was a big dog, he used to sit in Nichole's lap while she put on her makeup getting ready for high school. He would run across the room and jump into my lap like he weighed and the same one and a half pounds.

Bubba and I in our younger days. A man, his truck and his dog.

While Nichole was attending art classes at APSU, she used Bubba as a model for a charcoal drawing.

That's my boy after we moved to the new house.

This morning, at the vet, I had to get one shot with my camera phone. Bubba never liked going to the vet and as I held his head in my hands crying like a baby, just before he went to sleep he licked my face as if to say "Good bye."

I will miss you Bubba the Wonderdog.

The Anniversary of Stacy's 29th Birthday

2009-05-31T21:38:00.013-05:00

Yesterday Stacy turned 4_ (fill in the blank) years old and we celebrated her birthday.

She wanted to take a long bike ride to Patti's 1880's Settlement in Grand Rivers Kentucky. I checked map quest and I check the shortest route, then programed the route into my head. I-24 east to exit 31, left, 3 miles, 1st left to Patti's.

So we got on the bike and headed out. As soon as we got on I-24 and headed east toward Kentucky, she leaned forward and informed me that she didn't want to take the intestate. She wanted a nice country back road type of ride, nice and slow. Of course she did, I was suppose to know that.

After getting off of the interstate at Exit 4, I took the back roads, US 79 to Merryweather to Trenton Road to Tiny Town road to 41-A into Hopkinsville Kentucky, where we stopped to check out a map.

It was a long way on US 91 to Princeton then to Grand Rivers, so she opted to go east on US 68 toward Russellville Ky. But US 68 was an improved 4 lane and not a "country road." She also asked me to slow down because the wind was making her head shake from the wind.

We stopped at the Jefferson Davis Memorial, looks like the Washington Monument but smaller, much shorter. I asked her if she wanted to take the tour to the top, nope, she has never like heights. So after walking around and looking at the sights we got back on the road. We headed east on US 68 again , then took a left on US 475 (I think) followed the road up and down, back and forth, left and right. We dodged horse poop from the horse drawn carriages, the Amish on bicycles, and all the other "county" creatures.
After going back and forth on the road, we went back and forth on where to eat. She decided the OG would be good. Because everyplace I picked she said no, why do I even ask? It worked out great as she was able to eat and spend time with Lisa and Nichole.

Stacy loves yellow roses, so when she woke up she had them a card and her favorite candy.

Because she does like them, I have a tattoo of a yellow rose with her name on it.

(Don't ask, you can't see it)

But nothing compares to the real thing.

She could not be more beautiful now than she did the first time I saw her.

Just before we fell asleep, I asked her, "Did you have a good birthday, she said, yes."

Some things get better with age, and I can attest to that.

Short Vacation Day

2009-05-30T06:08:00.008-05:00

I took a vacation day on Thursday after a long two days on the road, I am exceeding tired of this required travel and having a totally incompetent boss. The situation at work has become almost intolerable, nice thing about this is I am at ease about it. We have followed Dave Ramsey and I can walk away from the this job and it's stress if I want and I'm going to. Soon.

This was proceeded by the news from Lisa that she was seeking a divorce from her husband of 4 years and moved back home with Emma. So as Stacy and I prepare for Mandy's wedding to David, Lisa and Emma are back for a temporay stay until they can find an apartment. Mandy also had a good friend Monika stay a few days with us while she prepared to move back to Colorado Springs. For awhile I thought I was operating a home for wayward girls and children.

I would like to thank those who have been in prayer for our family, I can feel the love of those who are close to us. Again, thanks for you prayers and sense of humor.

I started my short vacation day with Emma playing in my briefcase, card keys, GPS, camera and so many other goodies. Moms can you see the mischief in those eyes? Emma loved my small notebooks and decided it was fun to tear out the pages.
Nana and Emma playing the make a face game while getting ready for breakfast.

Emma wanted to grub into my Moss' fat and cholesterol free breakfast.

But, instead Nana gave her French toast. French is sissy stuff Nana.

We got all this great food for this little? Ah, no wonder Pop loves Moss'. But I have no pockets yet Pop, which means I have no money, so you got hosed again.

Your so smart Pop, I could listen to you all day. Tell me the one about pulling your finger........
After breakfast and running a few errands, Stacy thought I could use some golf to relax. She is doing the streatching before we get started.

My mobile office, PDA, note pad, cigar.

Nice view
It's always good to be in God's great outdoors, especially when you see a burning bush.

At some point in life you have got to measure your life, family, friends, work and the rest of life's distractions. When something gets out of balance, just like the front end of a car, you have to get it adjusted or it will just get worse.

Next week, I will be making that adjustment, not sure if the adjustment will work or if I will need to get the whole thing replaced.

She is still not Married

2009-05-25T22:52:00.002-05:00

Memorial Day 2009

2009-05-25T22:03:00.006-05:00

Memorial Day we had the whole gang over to the house, we grilled, gave thanks to those brave men and women who gave all for our freedom.

Lots of food, family and fun.

David, Jerry and Lisa getting their grub on.

The Grill Master.

Nichole, West and Emma chillin.

Looking down on the grill, oh yea.
The grill looking back at me.

Stacy, Bonnie and Emma.

The garden, coming along real good.

Emma, Stacy and Bonnie.

Just hanging around having a good time.

Earlier in the day, Jerry and I went for a ride. We went to Bumpus Mills and worked our way through Kentucky to Hopkinsville before we returned. Emma trying my riding boots on.
David, Emma, Stacy and the princess, Nichole. Who for some reason believes she does need to recline on the deck.

Views from the Hotel Window

2009-05-21T06:54:00.003-05:00

The view from my hotel window in Chattanooga this morning was excellent.

The bike was parked right were I left it, and as I looked out the window in all directions, the day was going to be good.

Back at the Gap

2009-05-19T21:22:00.010-05:00

A week ago, I took on the "Tail of the Dragon" at Deal's Gap in my zx2, and said I would return this week and do this on the bike.

So I did.

It was late Tuesday afternoon, and there was not a lot of traffic this time of day. The bike weighs in at 658 pounds, but I loaded the saddle bags and seat bag full of the stuff I needed for this three day business trip. Because of the weight of the bike, some of the curves I took so close that the floorboards on the bike were dragging on the pavement, at least 100 times over the 318 curves.

It was an awesome ride!

Not a lot of traffic at the resort this late in the day.

This is the hotel at Deal's Gap. The restaurant, gas station and store on property.
The clean machine.

Yes, the cigar was necessary. It's just something I do after I check something off my list.
Got the hat and t-shirt, and the patch. Now I just need to get a vest to put this on.

When My Mind Rambles

2009-05-15T17:33:00.007-05:00

Sometimes I feel like I'm in a rut even though I am constantly doing something, nothing is the same, and my job is ever changing. I passed this sculpture in downtown Knoxville yesterday. Then it hit me, I have been paddling and not getting anywhere. The currents not moving either, I need a change.

So I have decided to look at thing a bit different from now on. I'm not going to worry about anything, and pray about everything.

I'm going to ride where I want, in this case to Sonic.

I'm going to eat what and where I want. Chili cheese tots all around.

(Ok, somethings won't change.)

I can golf and enjoy the outdoors and have time to think whenever I want.

I'm going to look up more, I have walked past this federal building in Knoxville and never noticed this huge window to the sky before.

There are still plent of streams that I have not explored in a kayak yet. So I'm going to paddle all that I can. I'm no longer going to wonder why my oldest daughter Nichole is almost 30 and not married.
Oh, yea, now I remember.

Deal's Gap, North Carolina

2009-05-13T20:21:00.005-05:00

This afternoon, I got to visit the "Tail of the Dragon" an 11 miles stretch of road 26 miles south of Maryville Tn., which is 15 miles south of Knoxville. Which is 98 miles southwest of Johnson City TN., where I started this morning.

This 11 miles has 318 curves in it. Some of the curves double back on each other and the speed limit is 30 mph. No one but me was doing 30 mph. Bikers on rice rocket sport bikes we trying to set land speed records and the guys in the hyped up Hyundai's we trying to keep up with them. Then you have the trucks and SUV's swerving into your lane. Probably the most dangerous piece of road I have ever been on. That's why I am doing it again next week, but next week on the bike.

Some of the curves.

More curves.

Anyway, 318 curves in all, one way, so 636 curves, cause you gotta go back.
Deals Gap.

View from one of the lookout spots, with the dam in the background.

Yes, Stacy, it was straight down.

You didn't think I did all that math in my head did you?

Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-12T21:06:00.005-05:00

Sunday morning started good and ended even better.

We kept Emma overnight on Saturday while Lisa and Scott celebrated her birthday at Oprymills.

Emma starting early, going through all of Stacy's clothes looking for something to wear to church.
She decided she wanted to wear Pop's pants instead, but Nana put her into her little sundress.

After church Stacy was surprised as Nichole and Lisa took her to Poncho Villa's for lunch, and I got to tag along. If anyone knows Stacy, she loves the mexican food.

After lunch it was back to the house where Stacy started putting all her flowers into vases.

Nichole came by and spent the afternoon with her mommy. They played cards and laughed and laughed and kept me from taking a nap.

After a while, Nichole had to leave for work and Mandy came home from work. Mandy and David took Stacy to Cheeseburger Charley's for dinner and I got to tag along.

I was happy to see the girls make time to give thier mom the time and love on this Mother's Day.

Lisa's 23rd Birthday

2009-05-10T07:55:00.014-05:00

Part two of our busy weekend was to celebrate our youngest baby's birthday. Lisa is now 23 (Stacy is getting old.)

David doing hand puppets to entertain us over our lunch.We're going to save Lisa's "23" for Nichole's "32" party. Lisa opening gifts as attach dog Lily takes out Scott. Good dog.
DQ ice cream cake, you know you want some.
More birthday goodies for Lisa.
We ended our day with Lisa at J. Alexanders on West End in Nashville.Lisa and Scott went to Opryland for her birthday with some friends for the evening and we got to keep Emma overnight.

A good time was had by all and remember to love BIG.

Graduation

2009-05-10T05:57:00.006-05:00

Friday we we're proud parents of another college graduate. Mandy got pinned for her nursing studies. We are very proud of her, she overcame, she adapted and she did it!

Nice job girl!

Cap and gown.
Big sister Nichole and West, with Monica and my bud Jerry.

"George Clooney" with Emma. Mandy getting pinned.We are very proud of you.

David and Mandy post graduation.

Stacy, West, Nichole, Monica, MANDY, Jerry and David. Frank, West, Emma, Stacy, Jerry, Monica, MANDY, Lisa and Nichole.

Celebration!

2009-05-08T12:10:00.005-05:00

To say we are having another busy weekend would be an understatement. Today I took off from work to run some errands, pick up flowers, cakes and stuff for Mother's Day.

Mandy graduates from nursing school today with her pinning at 3:30pm, followed by graduation at 7:00pm in Hopkinsville.

Today is also Lisa's birthday, but because of schedules we are celebrating her day tomorrow with an afternoon cookout.

Then we are all loading up for a trip to Nashville for dinner at J. Alexander's on West End to celebrate Mandy's graduation.

We are also going to be stopping by the National Cemetary in Nashville to place flowers on Stacy's mom grave Saturday night after dinner.

Then of course it's Baby Momma Day on Sunday.

I will update with photos after the dust settles on Sunday night.

And as most of you know, there will be a trip to Wally World thrown in sometime during the weekend.

Truth in Advertising

2009-04-30T22:58:00.005-05:00

This is my number one combo hamburger from Wendy's. Looks so much like the menu board it's amazing. Not.

Being Italian, I love food, texture, flavor, and taste are all important to me. When I look at the menu board and see something that looks good, I'll order it. I have been more than disappointed with several local restaurants that have thrown quality out the window in favor of thrown together combos. With one exception.
This is an actual phone photo of my lunch at Steak n Shake.

This is my phone photo of the menu. Close, real close.

And it was good.

Knoxville-Good Eats

2009-04-29T19:37:00.006-05:00

I had the opportunity to eat in a really great place this afternoon. I love Calhoun's BBQ more than any other BBQ in Tennessee. But I did not know this one existed. I knew of the one in Gatlinburg and in Knoxville on Kingston Pike but not this one on the river.

Although we did not sit on the deck over the river because of the temperature, we were just inside in the glass dinning room.

Awesome view up river towards Neyland Stadium.

Straight across the river, Baptist Hospital.

Up river again.

Down river looking at the river boats.

The food was great, and Tony picked up the check.

Another Full Vacation

2009-04-28T06:53:00.006-05:00

Friday I started out at the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Golf Tourney. Really good turn out for this event and I believe I heard about $84,000.00 was raised.

At the practice range, I thought someone actually stacked the range balls by hand. It's done with a template that the balls are poured into until the triangle is full. Then the template is removed and the rest is history.

After golf, I got the treat to spend the rest of the day playing with Emma. It was an animal crackers, cookies, and a goodies filled afternoon.

Chillin' on the porch.

Emma and Pop watching Springer.

(Don't freak on me, it was on this channel when I turned it on. I turned it quick)

Then we we're back at the drop the golf ball in the fishbowl game. This game is very loud since she only drops one, and takes it back out to do it again.

This is just a small sample of her emptying out the cupboards.

Can you say, "future plumber?"

She takes things out one at a time, then I stack the items on the counter.

Then we moved to playing tug of war with her blanket on the floor.

Take the flower from my hand grasshopper.

Nope, I'll get my own.

Back to golf, this must be the lesson she learned from her dad.

Saturday morning it's breakfast with Pop. Notice the nice bowls of her favorites, Cheerios and Mandarin Oranges.

Not long after breakfast started.

Off to the park to swing with Nana.

Decked out in UT Orange.

After the park, it was off to Wendy's for Chicken Nuggets.

Sunday after church, Jerry Allen and I went for a cruise of small towns in TN and KY. This was a short stop in Adams TN.

Jerry taking the lead towards Trenton KY after lunch at Cheeseburger Charlies.

So I did enjoy my mini vacation, although I did work a little bit.

Remember to live life to the fullest and never stop believing.

Rainbows

2009-04-21T22:30:00.004-05:00

I love rainbows, I always have. I'm like a little kid when I see one.

But in this case there were two rainbows.
Did you ever want to look for the pot of gold?

Busy Weekend

2009-04-19T19:07:00.007-05:00

After a long week on the road, I decided to take Friday off and try to relax. I did accomplish not commuting to Nashville, but I hardly would call it a day off. Days off were something you took before the invention of the Internet, laptops with a broadband cards and cell phones. So basically it was a work from home day.

I did get a chance to have lunch with Stacy and Nichole at Casa Blanca at Two Rivers. Then I needed to ride the bike for a while.

So I decided to take the long road down Lock B road to the river. Lots of curves on a two lane highway down to the water. There are quite a few old barns along the way, but this one caught my eye, something every peaceful and inviting about this one.

The water was well above the level I had expected. I wanted to find it at least down 6 more feet because I wanted to get the kayak out for the first time this year.

How I got there.
Where else but in Tennessee can you find beautiful butterflies and shell casings at a boat ramp?
Friday night Stacy and I went to Chili's for dinner then went downtown to Rivers and Spires.

That's when we ran into my son in law Scott, and his buddy Jeremiah.

I was told they were have a caricature drawn, but they looked to lovey dovey to me.

But I won't ask, and they did not tell.Stacy ran into a Ben and Jerry's ice cream vendor while downtown. She got a vanilla and I got a strawberry sorbet, large.

Saturday morning we were back up and out the door to get some breakfast at Moss' Cafe. For those who have never been there, you gotta go. It's a local favorite.

After we ate, I had to chair the Poplar Hill Home Owner's Association quarterly meeting as I'm this year's president.

After the meeting it was our usual Saturday trip to WalMart. This Saturday it was two trips, but at least I got to Lowe's too.

Saturday night I volunteers at Rivers and Spires for Grace Community Church, I got to help people into Velcro suits and watch them stick to the wall.

One of the inflatables was a sinking Titanic. The only thing missing was Rose kicking Jack in the head sending him to the deep.

Sunday was church at Grace, then off to Austin Peay State University for the Queen City Road Race where my daughter Lisa was running in the 5k race. Lisa with friends before the race.

On your mark, get set, GO!

While waiting for Lisa to finish, Emma loved running up and down the sidelines at Governor's Stadium. Let's go Peay!

Lisa coming to the finish line.

Across the line.

Finished! Proud of my little girl.

Back Home

2009-04-16T23:17:00.007-05:00

The week started out with the usual staff meeting on Monday and I was not scheduled to travel at all. But as most of you know, that is subject to change at a moments notice. I had expected to stay close to home and was looking forward to a nice relaxing week in town.

NOT!

I had to go to Johnson City TN and conduct some recruiting.

The count on the car, 240,000 and climbing.

Just a pit stop.

I have been in Johnson City Tennesse at the Dept of Labor for the last two days conducting interviews. I asked my point of contact there, where the break room was. She showed me, and I have never seen an older soda machine since I worked at a Union 76 Station in 1975.

The snack machine was not much better.

Some of the slots were empty, others, just looked old.

Some great jalapeno corn dogs nearby.

As I was close to home on 41A, 240,734 and counting.

I am taking tomorrow off.

Goodnight.

Easter Sunday

2009-04-14T05:50:00.014-05:00

We started the day at Grace Community Church, and we were not alone, there was another 2,150 also present. Not at the same time, but a total over three services. Ron Edmonson, one of our co-paster conducted all three services. Ron tells it like it is.

Then it was back to our home where Emma got to sit in Auntie Coco's lap. These two look so much like each other, you would think Nichole was the baby's momma.

Then it was on to the Easter Egg hunt.

Before long, Emma had a hard time lugging all her goodies.

After hunting eggs, it was toy time.

Look mom, I've got peeps! And you have big feet.

I'm only going to have one, hahaha.

Got my new Easter clubs. Now, do I drive the green or do I lay up?

Pop giving Emma "Tiger" her first golf lesson.
Only going to have one more.
The crash after all the sugar.

I got my garden, and got to enjoy it after dinner when everyone went home. I love to garden, it's theraputic for me.

I also love Easter, it's my favorite holiday.

Because He Lives.

Taking the Day Off

2009-04-08T20:15:00.005-05:00

After traveling and putting together new accounts in Knoxville and Chattanooga I decided to take the day off. Needed one good day to relax and unwind. So I got up and decided to take the bike to Midsouth Motoplex for it's 12k service, although I only had 11k on it. I needed a new front tire and I want to ride it to work now that the weather is getting nice.

As Stacy was going to pick up Emma for our normal baby sitting day, I dropped the bike off as Stacy circled back and picked me up. Being a normal morning, I was starving, so the three of us went to Moss' for breakfast. After we ate, it was back home to play. I have a golf ball rack that houses two dozen balls that I have collected from the places I have played. This means nothing to Emma who loves to take the balls out of the rack and put them into a huge fishbowl.She does this even though she has a ton of toys up in the bonus room.

After she was finished playing with the golf balls, we started wrestling around the floor. We were playing and having a lesson of ears, eyes and nose. She soon tired of this and like most of the women in my family zoned in on sometime of value.

At first I could not make out what she was playing with and I was asking her to bring it to me so I could see what it wasThis caused a quick game of hide from Pop what I got.

Like grandmother, like mom, like daughter and now granddaughter, she had my money clip.

Sometime mid morning, Stacy and Emma went to fairgrounds park to play while I remained at home catching up on a few things. Then Emma's momma came from classes at APSU to pick her up and Stacy and I were off to Mason Rudolph for a round of golf.

Mason Rudolph is going though a transformation, a new pro shop and club house is being built.

On going construction to the club house.

As I blogged earlier about this empty nest, I went to check on it. Momma bird was sitting on the nest and when I approached, she flew to the next tree screaming. So I took these photos of these beautiful blue eggs.

So spring has come, again, and the bike is ready for the road trips of summer.

Getting Ready for Easter

2009-04-07T23:38:00.006-05:00

Last Saturday our church, Grace Community Church partnered with Way FM and held an Easter egg hunt.

This was Emma's first hayride, of course when she grows up and finds out that her mommy changed her diaper in front of everyone during this event she won't be too happy.

Emma enjoyed the inflatable slide with mommy.

Then it was off to the Easter Egg hunt.

She may not have understood what she was doing, but she had a blast doing it.

This was my favorite part, although Emma wanted no part of Pop's nap.

Sunday after church it was time to color our own eggs.

So we stripped her down and she started to "drop" her eggs into the dye.

This was a mess waiting to happen and happen it did.

I almost put the vegetables I started from seeds a few weeks ago into the garden this past weekend but heard the weather was going to turn cold.When I left the hotel in Knoxville this morning my car had a dusting of new snow on it.

On my drive home, I got caught in a small blizzard between Crossview and Cookeville.

Spring Time

2009-04-02T18:38:00.010-05:00

Spring is my second favorite time of the year. Fall is my favorite. Spring is when those dormant things come back to life. It's also the time of year for my favorite holiday, Easter. He is risen.

So today I decided to take a day of not doing much of anything and just relax. The only plan I had was to have lunch with Stacy.

So I had a few errands to run and ended up at Ft. Campbell and looked in on my granddaughter Emma. I got a big hug and a smile and my heart melted.

After my Emma visit, I was off to meet Stacy for lunch but had some time to kill. I stopped off at Rural King on the bypass. While I was walking around I kept hearing chirping, but there is always a bird inside the store so I thought nothing of it.

There we huge bins of little birds, birds of all kinds, baby hens, chickens and ducks.

So I had to get up close and personal with these little guys, hopefully they will not end up at Tyson's, Purdue, Zaxby's or KFC.

We have several bird's nest in the trees on the side and back yard this year.

I really like the spring colors on the trees and the rich green hues of the grass.I ordered and got my Tombstone back rest support bag today in the mail, so I put it on and went for a ride. As stopped by the Mid-South Motoplex on Huntco to schedule a service before riding season begins. I was told by the service manager that Clarksville was under a tornado warning and that I should get home. I got home just in time before the lightning and rain started.

So I sat on the deck and enjoyed a nice Cuban while I felt the wind and a slight mist against my skin.

I have decided that I need a bigger garden this year, so I expanded it by 2/3 and should be ready for planting this weekend.

Workin'

2009-03-28T07:54:00.006-05:00

Although the economy my be down, the security industry seems to be booming. I have been working everyday and traveling more than usual.

I did get to grab a few geocaches last weekend as I find this new hobby enjoyable and a stress reliever for me. One of the caches I found last week had to do with Clarksville's local Olympian, Wilma Rudolph. She is buried in a small cemetery next to the Mason Rudolph golf course. The engraving on her headstone, "Faster, Higher, Braver."

While in Cleveland, I saw a roof support where I was filling up, relieving itself. It was pouring down rain, and this post filled up with water and was draining from a small hole.

A waterfall, a running faucet and this all has the same effect on me, I had to enter the gas station and go too. Between Knoxville and Chattanooga is the small Tennessee town of Loudon. I enjoying stopping at the top of his small rise to catch up on voice and email.

I get a treat this weekend, although I will be working, Stacy is going with me on this trip to Knoxville. We have some errands to run this morning, then dinner with the Grahams and Colemans at the Olive Garden.

After dinner, we will take off for Knoxville for a midnight new job start, then tomorrow we can enjoy the day and look for an Easter basket for the grand baby.

Being busy is an understatement at this point, but I am grateful for being employed, blessed with Stacy, without who, I am nothing.

Dying To Get In

2009-03-18T19:00:00.004-05:00

During my travels, I have been geocaching and one of my favorite places to search is old grave yards in historic parts of the towns I visit.

This is the Ramsey Cemetery in Cleveland TN, there is a lot of the Wade family buried here. One of the principals to geocaching is "pack it out." This means always clean up anyplace that you go into or "pack it out". I ended up taking the fast food waste I found here with me when I left.
If you want to learn some history about where you live, visit the local grave yards and just read some of the markers.

Anyway, people are dying to get into these places, yet few visit. That's why when I go I want to be scattered around all the local Mexican restaurants in Clarksville, so I know Stacy will visit me.