Hey Guys --
What do you say that this New Years we all resolve to check in on the blog more often? How about if we further resolve to comment more often and keep our dialogue going. It was a good thing that Ken started this blog and I would hate to see it go by the wayside. Plus, I like knowing what is going on with you guys.
What do you say? Can we do it?
Also, let me put in another shameless plug for Our Great Big Road Trip blog at greatbigroadtrip.blogspot.com. I enjoy hearing from Ken and Bode, but I'm sad that Keith & Bill don't check in more often.
Merry Christmas!
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Our Great Big Road Trip
We are just over two weeks away from living our lives on the road, so I thought I would check in to give you an update on our efforts.
The RV we bought has turned into a project. The people that owned it before us had some of their kids living in the RV outside of their house and they never cleaned it. Food and drink was spilled all over the seats and carpet. Plus, they must have had a little dog that pissed all over the place. To make matters worse, they smoked in the RV, so there is a nasty mixture of cigarette smoke and dog urine that greets you when you enter the Big Rolling Turd.
Thankfully, we have already made progress cleaning up the RV. I took all of the furniture out and we are having it all steam cleaned and deodorized later this week. We also tore out all of the carpet and we’re having it replaced next week. I’m in the process of sealing the plywood sub-floor so the smell doesn’t come back. Just getting the carpet out of the RV has improved the smell by about 90%.
As of today, we have 15 days left before we leave on November 19. We still have to get everything moved out of the house and into storage before we leave. We’re donating a bunch of stuff to Habit for Humanity. They’re coming out next week to pick the stuff up. Then I’ll need to get busy moving the rest of the stuff into a storage room at my office. Want to help?
Don’t forget that you can follow along on this grand adventure at greatbigroadtrip.blogspot.com.
The RV we bought has turned into a project. The people that owned it before us had some of their kids living in the RV outside of their house and they never cleaned it. Food and drink was spilled all over the seats and carpet. Plus, they must have had a little dog that pissed all over the place. To make matters worse, they smoked in the RV, so there is a nasty mixture of cigarette smoke and dog urine that greets you when you enter the Big Rolling Turd.
Thankfully, we have already made progress cleaning up the RV. I took all of the furniture out and we are having it all steam cleaned and deodorized later this week. We also tore out all of the carpet and we’re having it replaced next week. I’m in the process of sealing the plywood sub-floor so the smell doesn’t come back. Just getting the carpet out of the RV has improved the smell by about 90%.
As of today, we have 15 days left before we leave on November 19. We still have to get everything moved out of the house and into storage before we leave. We’re donating a bunch of stuff to Habit for Humanity. They’re coming out next week to pick the stuff up. Then I’ll need to get busy moving the rest of the stuff into a storage room at my office. Want to help?
Don’t forget that you can follow along on this grand adventure at greatbigroadtrip.blogspot.com.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Go Bears!!!
Bears 27, Packers 20
Bears steal one from Pack
Bears score game's final 17 points to rally for victory
By Vaughn McClure | Tribune staff reporter
GREEN BAY - Alex Brown tried to maintain a serious look, but he couldn't suppress a smile after the Bears' 27-20, come-from-behind win over the previously undefeated Green Bay Packers on Sunday night.
"We didn't play worth a [bleep] in the first half," Brown said. "But we came out the second half and played football. That's what we expect."
So what can we expect from the Bears the rest of the season? Sunday night's hard-earned victory showed they weren't dead, which was a common perception following three losses in their first four games. Now 2-3, the Bears moved a step closer to the Packers (4-1) in the NFC North, and may have put themselves back in the postseason conversation.
Not that they should have been counted out after just five games, but a 1-4 record would have been the equivalent of fourth-and-10 from their own 10-yard line with time running out—tough to overcome.
If anything, Sunday showed that the weeklong sense-of-urgency talk wasn't just talk, although it took a while for the Bears to back up their words. Only after coach Lovie Smith called them out in the locker room at halftime did the Bears show signs of being the team that made the city buzz throughout last season, forcing five turnovers and rendering Brett Favre surprisingly ineffective in the second half after he'd lit them up in the first.
"It's the first game we finished," Brown said. "We finished the game. To get a win is great, but to beat Green Bay is even better.
"Whatever Lovie said, it worked."
Smith's rhetoric may have been instrumental, but so were a handful of big plays on both sides of the ball.
Cornerback Charles Tillman, whose availability was in question because of an ankle injury, forced two fumbles that kept the Packers from breaking the game open in the first half.
Brian Urlacher's third-quarter interception of an ill-advised Favre pass ignited the comeback.
And fellow linebacker Lance Briggs was a big-time performer with 16 tackles.
On offense, rookie tight end Greg Olsen had a long-awaited breakout game with four catches, including a 19-yard touchdown reception and a spectacular grab of a 27-yarder to keep a drive alive.
Brian Griese and Desmond Clark teamed up for a dramatic finish, utilizing a play-action pass to perfection.
Griese faked a hand-off to Cedric Benson, dropped back and found Clark over the middle for a game-winning, 34-yard touchdown. Clark got behind safety Nick Collins and linebacker Brady Poppinga, who bit on the play fake, a great call by offensive coordinator Ron Turner.
"It was a play that Ron thought about a couple of plays before from some of the looks we were getting," Clark said. "He called it at the right time. They had a defensive breakdown and we capitalized on the opportunity."
The Bears needed to make the most of their chances, considering how they struggled in the first half. The defense gave up 341 yards and let the league's worst rushing offense got 64 yards on the first drive of the game, capped by DeShawn Wynn's 2-yard touchdown run.
Benson answered with a 10-yard touchdown run of his own, but the Bears still trailed 17-7 at halftime.
Then the defense turned it on, shutting down Favre and his running game and giving the offense the opportunity to step forward.
"It's exciting to win, but this is the way we expect to play," Brown said. "Hopefully it's here to stay. If we play like we did in the second half, we'll keep ourselves in a lot of games."
Bears steal one from Pack
Bears score game's final 17 points to rally for victory
By Vaughn McClure | Tribune staff reporter
GREEN BAY - Alex Brown tried to maintain a serious look, but he couldn't suppress a smile after the Bears' 27-20, come-from-behind win over the previously undefeated Green Bay Packers on Sunday night.
"We didn't play worth a [bleep] in the first half," Brown said. "But we came out the second half and played football. That's what we expect."
So what can we expect from the Bears the rest of the season? Sunday night's hard-earned victory showed they weren't dead, which was a common perception following three losses in their first four games. Now 2-3, the Bears moved a step closer to the Packers (4-1) in the NFC North, and may have put themselves back in the postseason conversation.
Not that they should have been counted out after just five games, but a 1-4 record would have been the equivalent of fourth-and-10 from their own 10-yard line with time running out—tough to overcome.
If anything, Sunday showed that the weeklong sense-of-urgency talk wasn't just talk, although it took a while for the Bears to back up their words. Only after coach Lovie Smith called them out in the locker room at halftime did the Bears show signs of being the team that made the city buzz throughout last season, forcing five turnovers and rendering Brett Favre surprisingly ineffective in the second half after he'd lit them up in the first.
"It's the first game we finished," Brown said. "We finished the game. To get a win is great, but to beat Green Bay is even better.
"Whatever Lovie said, it worked."
Smith's rhetoric may have been instrumental, but so were a handful of big plays on both sides of the ball.
Cornerback Charles Tillman, whose availability was in question because of an ankle injury, forced two fumbles that kept the Packers from breaking the game open in the first half.
Brian Urlacher's third-quarter interception of an ill-advised Favre pass ignited the comeback.
And fellow linebacker Lance Briggs was a big-time performer with 16 tackles.
On offense, rookie tight end Greg Olsen had a long-awaited breakout game with four catches, including a 19-yard touchdown reception and a spectacular grab of a 27-yarder to keep a drive alive.
Brian Griese and Desmond Clark teamed up for a dramatic finish, utilizing a play-action pass to perfection.
Griese faked a hand-off to Cedric Benson, dropped back and found Clark over the middle for a game-winning, 34-yard touchdown. Clark got behind safety Nick Collins and linebacker Brady Poppinga, who bit on the play fake, a great call by offensive coordinator Ron Turner.
"It was a play that Ron thought about a couple of plays before from some of the looks we were getting," Clark said. "He called it at the right time. They had a defensive breakdown and we capitalized on the opportunity."
The Bears needed to make the most of their chances, considering how they struggled in the first half. The defense gave up 341 yards and let the league's worst rushing offense got 64 yards on the first drive of the game, capped by DeShawn Wynn's 2-yard touchdown run.
Benson answered with a 10-yard touchdown run of his own, but the Bears still trailed 17-7 at halftime.
Then the defense turned it on, shutting down Favre and his running game and giving the offense the opportunity to step forward.
"It's exciting to win, but this is the way we expect to play," Brown said. "Hopefully it's here to stay. If we play like we did in the second half, we'll keep ourselves in a lot of games."
Saturday, October 6, 2007
My Big News
A few days ago, I promised Ken and Keith that I would share some news with all of you about a big change coming up in my life. I wanted to wait until the Cubs won the World Series, but since that's not going to happen this year (just wait until next year), let me spill the beans now.
I started a blog to memorialize all of the details of our big news. Take a look at greatbigroadtrip.blogspot.com to find out what's going on. Please let me know either here or there what you think.
I started a blog to memorialize all of the details of our big news. Take a look at greatbigroadtrip.blogspot.com to find out what's going on. Please let me know either here or there what you think.
Friday, October 5, 2007
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Ken's Clothes
For last night's Cubs game - their first of the post-season - Kenny J chose to wear a non-Sammy Sosa Cubs jersey with no hat. Although he struggled a bit with the decision to not wear a hat, we both agreed that it was for the best.
Obviously, Ken's apparel choices for last night's game did not produce enough offense as the Cubs went down to defeat to the D-Backs - the league's worst offensive team - 3-1.
To get the team back on track tonight, I would suggest that Ken add a Cubs cap to his wardrobe. I would also suggest that he stick with the non-Sammy Sosa Cubs jersey for the time being. I don't think it is time to panic and bring out the big guns yet. Let's keep a little bit in reserve.
Gentlemen, your thoughts?
Obviously, Ken's apparel choices for last night's game did not produce enough offense as the Cubs went down to defeat to the D-Backs - the league's worst offensive team - 3-1.
To get the team back on track tonight, I would suggest that Ken add a Cubs cap to his wardrobe. I would also suggest that he stick with the non-Sammy Sosa Cubs jersey for the time being. I don't think it is time to panic and bring out the big guns yet. Let's keep a little bit in reserve.
Gentlemen, your thoughts?
Saturday, September 29, 2007
PACKERS DROOL AGAIN!!!
Just thought I'd throw that out there before they choke!
p.s. My two fave QBs...Farve and Grossman...Love wathcing them both!!!
p.s. My two fave QBs...Farve and Grossman...Love wathcing them both!!!
Friday, September 28, 2007
Cubs
CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!! CUBS CLINCH!!!
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Who Am I To Judge?
We all have our vices. The little demons that upset the otherwise constant hum of life. I’m no exception. In fact, there was a time when I could barely contain my lust for milk and cookies. And I’m ashamed to say it, but I have OD’d on donuts on more than one occasion.
Thankfully, I’ve put those vices behind me, at least for now. But just when I start to enjoy life's constant hum, other little demons pop up. Right now for me, I am addicted to a certain comfy rocker recliner. I also have a penchant for Diet Coke.
It is for this reason that I have trouble joining in the loud chorus celebrating the fall of one Britney Spears. Sure, she partied way too hard and way too publicly. She also exhibited some odd parenting skills, including once hanging her child out of the window of a moving car. We all thought we had seen her hit rock bottom when she drank too much and shaved her head. But the young sexbot – my word for a woman who has no apparent value to society other than arousing sexual desire in men (and perhaps lesbians) – wasn’t through yet. In her latest act of self-destruction, a scantily clad Britney went on national TV to sing her latest pop hit and ended up making a fool of herself.
Yet, who am I to judge? Instead of joining the throngs (not thongs) piling on the troubled sexbot, I sympathize with her. Like her, I spend my days battling my own demons. And because of this sin, I can not cast the first stone.
True, I’ve never gotten drunk and shaved my head (at least not that I remember). I’ve also never hung my infant child out the window of a moving vehicle. And I’m not sure if during her lip-synched MTV performance she forgot the words to the song or simply lost interest, but whatever happened, I’ve also never done that. Our demons may be different, but our fight is the same. We struggle every day to be better people.
At one time, for one brief, shining moment, Britney Spears had it all. But alas, shining moments fade and young sexbots get drunk, shave their heads, mistreat their kids, and eventually make fools of themselves on national TV. Britney is not the first to do this and she won’t be . . .wait, she actually is the first to do this. But the point remains, we each have our little demons. They got the best of Britney this time, but next time it could be you or me.
So in honor of sexbot extraordinaire Britney Spears, I will go another day refusing the sweet elixir that is Diet Coke (I’m up to nine days without the wonderful caffeine-infused drink). However, I can not shun the siren song of my Lazy Boy. So here I’ll sit thinking of Britney, and wishing for stronger days for both of us.
One day at a time, Britney. One day at a time.
Thankfully, I’ve put those vices behind me, at least for now. But just when I start to enjoy life's constant hum, other little demons pop up. Right now for me, I am addicted to a certain comfy rocker recliner. I also have a penchant for Diet Coke.
It is for this reason that I have trouble joining in the loud chorus celebrating the fall of one Britney Spears. Sure, she partied way too hard and way too publicly. She also exhibited some odd parenting skills, including once hanging her child out of the window of a moving car. We all thought we had seen her hit rock bottom when she drank too much and shaved her head. But the young sexbot – my word for a woman who has no apparent value to society other than arousing sexual desire in men (and perhaps lesbians) – wasn’t through yet. In her latest act of self-destruction, a scantily clad Britney went on national TV to sing her latest pop hit and ended up making a fool of herself.
Yet, who am I to judge? Instead of joining the throngs (not thongs) piling on the troubled sexbot, I sympathize with her. Like her, I spend my days battling my own demons. And because of this sin, I can not cast the first stone.
True, I’ve never gotten drunk and shaved my head (at least not that I remember). I’ve also never hung my infant child out the window of a moving vehicle. And I’m not sure if during her lip-synched MTV performance she forgot the words to the song or simply lost interest, but whatever happened, I’ve also never done that. Our demons may be different, but our fight is the same. We struggle every day to be better people.
At one time, for one brief, shining moment, Britney Spears had it all. But alas, shining moments fade and young sexbots get drunk, shave their heads, mistreat their kids, and eventually make fools of themselves on national TV. Britney is not the first to do this and she won’t be . . .wait, she actually is the first to do this. But the point remains, we each have our little demons. They got the best of Britney this time, but next time it could be you or me.
So in honor of sexbot extraordinaire Britney Spears, I will go another day refusing the sweet elixir that is Diet Coke (I’m up to nine days without the wonderful caffeine-infused drink). However, I can not shun the siren song of my Lazy Boy. So here I’ll sit thinking of Britney, and wishing for stronger days for both of us.
One day at a time, Britney. One day at a time.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Chicago stuff
So, My Sharona by the Knack came up recently on my Ipod. Which, of course, made me think of Ayatolla by Steve Dahl. It turns out that he does the afternoon talk for a Chicago radio station. The weird thing is that Gary Meier does the morning talk. Have they made up? I guess they could still hate each other and work the same radio station. You can download Podcasts of both of them at the Itunes store. I suppose Queebs knows all about this. Anyway, I was looking for a copy of Ayatolla-could not find one; as well as a copy of Hey Hey Holy Mackerel. Any help?
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Vacation
We Just returned from Emerald Isle. I have submitted my ITunes html tracking to the blog. We had quite the adventure kayaking down the White Oak River, which is a story that will get better with time-so I will let that percolate some. Meantime, here is a photo of Egla and I at the Sanitary Fish Market in Morehead City, NC.
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
What I did on my Summer vacation
So..... here it is, August 7th and there has been no posting since July 3rd. Where has everyone gone?? Is everyone off on summer vacation ?? The family and I just returned from a week out in Cape Cod. We hung out at the beach a bit, did a little fishing and BTW Louis, attended a couple of games of the Orleans Cardinals in the Cape Cod Baseball League. I must say, I did not realize what a big deal this whole baseball thing was in Cape Cod. We vacationed with the rest of the Johnson family ( Steve, Brian and my Mother ) so a good time was had by all. We went to Plymouth Rock and saw where all of those Pilgrim folks landed. Man, I really think it would have been easier if they would have made the trip by plane. But anywho, other than that, I went to see the Police at Wrigley Field in July and of course saw Louis, Bodie and the their respective families around the same time. And if everyone wants a real jolt of reality, we are going to a party this Sunday for Steve and Liz's 25th wedding anniversary!!! OK, so it is time for everyone to write their respective essays on what they did on their summer vacation. Must be at least 250 words.
See Ya,
Keith
See Ya,
Keith
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Hey!!! Where did you all go????
Hey Guys,
I know with all the summer activities were are all pretty busy, but I just wanted to make sure Lou and the LouMan Group all made it home Saturday or earlier Sunday. Missed you Ken and Bill, but it was good to see everyone again. I am not surprised Ken didn't come, we didn't have appetizers like we had promised if he came.
Bodie
I know with all the summer activities were are all pretty busy, but I just wanted to make sure Lou and the LouMan Group all made it home Saturday or earlier Sunday. Missed you Ken and Bill, but it was good to see everyone again. I am not surprised Ken didn't come, we didn't have appetizers like we had promised if he came.
Bodie
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Happy Birthday, Kenny J
In case you didn't know it (and how could you not know it? It's all over the news, in the papers, on the radio, etc), today is Kenny J's 47th birthday.
Originally born Kenneth Wayne Jordan in the white ghetto of Aurora, IL, he became Kenny J after his first successful solo soprano sax album (the kids call them "CDs"). To this day, Kenny J has sold more instrumental albums than anyone in history (and I heard he dated Whitney Houston for a time too).
Of course, for many years now, the Norweigns have been celebrating Ken's birthday as well. They call it "Syttende Mai" and it corresponds with their day of independence (much like our 4th of July). As best I can tell, Ken was viewed as a savior to the Norweign people and it was under his leadership that Norwegia unshackled themselves from the surly bonds of captivity at the hands of Chile and their totalitarian leader, General Pinochet. I think it was in the 1970's that this happened (I believe it corresponded with the popularity of disco)and the birth of the "Norweign Messiah" (Ken's nickname) has been celebrated ever since.
Other notable moments in the life of Kenny J include:
* Set the land speed record for a fully stock lawn tractor;
* Sang "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" at the funeral of Robert "Bobby" Kennedy;
* Once shot a man just to watch him die;
* Won an Academy Award, but refused to accept it as long as baby seals continue to be slaughtered;
* Placed second in the 1988 World Spelling Bee in Zimbabwe;
* Played the part of Eliza Doolittle in an off Broadway revival of My Fair Lady;
* Accepted a urine sample from Major Harris. Major Harris has not been heard from since; and
* Testified before Congress concerning the effect bovine flatulence plays in global warming.
Please join me in wishing Kenny J a happy and memorable 47th birthday.
Let's sing:
Happy Birthday to you
Happy birthday to you
Happy Birthday, dear Kenny
Happy birthday to you
Now just the girls...
Originally born Kenneth Wayne Jordan in the white ghetto of Aurora, IL, he became Kenny J after his first successful solo soprano sax album (the kids call them "CDs"). To this day, Kenny J has sold more instrumental albums than anyone in history (and I heard he dated Whitney Houston for a time too).
Of course, for many years now, the Norweigns have been celebrating Ken's birthday as well. They call it "Syttende Mai" and it corresponds with their day of independence (much like our 4th of July). As best I can tell, Ken was viewed as a savior to the Norweign people and it was under his leadership that Norwegia unshackled themselves from the surly bonds of captivity at the hands of Chile and their totalitarian leader, General Pinochet. I think it was in the 1970's that this happened (I believe it corresponded with the popularity of disco)and the birth of the "Norweign Messiah" (Ken's nickname) has been celebrated ever since.
Other notable moments in the life of Kenny J include:
* Set the land speed record for a fully stock lawn tractor;
* Sang "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" at the funeral of Robert "Bobby" Kennedy;
* Once shot a man just to watch him die;
* Won an Academy Award, but refused to accept it as long as baby seals continue to be slaughtered;
* Placed second in the 1988 World Spelling Bee in Zimbabwe;
* Played the part of Eliza Doolittle in an off Broadway revival of My Fair Lady;
* Accepted a urine sample from Major Harris. Major Harris has not been heard from since; and
* Testified before Congress concerning the effect bovine flatulence plays in global warming.
Please join me in wishing Kenny J a happy and memorable 47th birthday.
Let's sing:
Happy Birthday to you
Happy birthday to you
Happy Birthday, dear Kenny
Happy birthday to you
Now just the girls...
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
A New Week, A New Thread
It looks like my short story has left everyone speechless. No one has commented in over a week. What gives? Where have all the bloggers gone?
I don't want my story to be the cause of the silence, so I'm starting another thread. Feel free to discuss any topic you wish to discuss. And don't worry about me. This isn't the first time I've been rejected. I can take it. Oh, dammit...I promised myself I wasn't going to cry. This is embarrassing. Oh, just ignore me. I'll be okay...
I don't want my story to be the cause of the silence, so I'm starting another thread. Feel free to discuss any topic you wish to discuss. And don't worry about me. This isn't the first time I've been rejected. I can take it. Oh, dammit...I promised myself I wasn't going to cry. This is embarrassing. Oh, just ignore me. I'll be okay...
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
I've Got Mine
I’ve Got Mine
It was Saturday night and the joint was jumping. Of course, in Las Vegas, the joint was always jumping.
The four of us sat around the table dressed to the nines. We were cool, the nicotine-free rat pack. We were looking for love and this was the right place.
Michael Buble had the place swinging as he belted out the last few notes to “Fever.” As the waitress brought another round of cocktails to the table, “The Bubble Man,” looked over at us and gave the thumbs up sign.
“This one worked last night for you, Bill. Let’s see if it works again.” Wild Bill gave “The Bubble Man” a big smile and returned the thumbs up. The band started to play and Bubbles launched into a very seductive version of “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine.”
“Time to get busy, boys,” Bill said. With that, he spotted a sweet young blond at the bar, and gave her the old thumb and finger “pistol” point. The woman smiled coyly at Bill as she sipped her drink through the straw.
”Watch and learn,” Bill said as he sealed the deal with a sly wink. The woman put her drink on the bar, waved her room key in Bill’s direction, and headed out of the bar.
“I’ve got mine,” Bill announced and got up from the table to follow after the young blond.
“That was impressive,” Keith said.
“Damn impressive,” I said.
We both looked over at Ken to see that he had set up some sort of table with what looked like handle bars on it. “The doctor’s breaking out the heavy equipment tonight,” Keith said.
Mikey Bubbles was rocking once again to a swinging version of “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.”
“Freddie Mercury must be rolling over in his grave,” Keith said.
“He did that a lot when he was alive, too,” I said. Keith laughed and raised his glass in a mock salute.
Just then the waitress brought over a couple of drinks. “These drinks are from the two lovely ladies up at the bar.” We turned to see two women, a brunette and a redhead, waving to us from the bar.
“I’ll take the redhead,” I said.
“I’ve got the brunette.”
The two women walked over to our table and we offered them each a chair. “Please, sit down,” Keith said. The woman each accepted a chair. “My name is Tom and this is Harold,” Keith said pointing to me.
I hated it when he called me Harold. Why couldn't he call me Max or Ricardo or Hans Solo? Anything but Harold.
“I’m Holly,” the brunette said.
“And I’m Sheila, the redhead said. Her bright blue eyes were in stark contrast to her long, curly red hair.
“What is your friend doing over there?” Sheila asked pointing at Ken. He had put on a white smock over his tux, and on his head he was wearing one of those mirrors with a hole in the middle.
“It’s okay,” I said. “He’s a doctor.”
Is he a gynecologist?” Sheila asked.
“No, he actually makes his living as a pediatrician. Doing gynecological check-ups is just a hobby he does on evenings and weekends.”
Bubbles slowed things down with “The Way You Look Tonight.”
“I love this song,” Holly said.
“Would you like to dance?” Keith asked standing up and offering his hand to Holly.
“Sure”
“What about you, Harold? Are you a dancer?”
It took me a moment to remember that I was Harold. “Absolutely.”
As we danced, Sheila snuggled up close to me and whispered in my ear. “Are you looking for a little love tonight?”
I looked down at her shining bright eyes. “Every night,” I said.
Sheila laughed. “For five hundred bucks, I’m yours, at least for tonight.”
“You mean you didn’t send over that drink just because I’m irresistible?
“Of course that’s why I sent it over,” Sheila said. “But a girl’s got to make a living.”
When the song was over, Bubbles announced that he was taking a break and would be right back. As we made our way back to the table, Sheila said, “Holly and I need to freshen up. Wait for us?”
Before I could say anything, Keith said, “We’ll be right here.” The two women walked away seductively. Although Holly was limping a bit, it seemed to me that there was a purpose in the way they walked.
“Why’s Holly limping? Did you step on her foot while you were dancing?” I asked.
“Actually, I did step on her foot, but that’s not why she’s limping,” Keith said. She’s limping because she has an artificial leg.” Keith had a big smile on his face.
“Does she have a glass eye too,” I asked.
“No, but you can’t have everything.”
“You know, they’re both pros.”
“Yeah, I know. Five hundred bucks.”
“Should we send them packing,” I asked.
“No way. Didn’t you just hear what I said?” Keith leaned in to make sure I didn’t miss a word he said. “She has a prosthetic leg.” Keith annunciated each syllable of prosthetic. “And she has agreed to call me Chico. She’s just one glass eye away from a jackpot.”
“I guess two out of three isn’t bad.”
“You’ve got that right,” Keith said and knocked back the last of his drink.
When the ladies returned, Holly said, “Tommy, are you ready to go?”
Keith stood up quickly. “Let’s go.” As he walked away from the table, Keith looked at me and mouthed the words, “I’ve got mine.”
“So what about you, sailor? Should we get out of here?” Sheila asked.
“I hate not to do my part to help grow the economy, but I’m afraid I’m going to have to pass,” I said.
“In that case, thank you for the dance,” Sheila said standing up.
“And thank you for the drink.”
“Maybe I’ll see you again,” she said with a big smile. She leaned over and gave me a kiss on the cheek.
“Maybe you will,” I said as sincerely as I could. As she headed out of the bar, I admired the way she walked. At least looking was free.
“I’ve got mine,” Ken called out from his makeshift clinic against the wall. I’m not sure what he was looking for, but he apparently found it. He helped a tall woman out of the stirrups and off the table. She grabbed her purse and they made their way out of the bar.
I sat by myself at the table and felt lonely. It was just me, my drink, and Michael Buble’ singing “Moondance.” At least Van Morison songs always cheered me up.
“What happened to you and the redhead?” the waitress asked.
“I don’t know,” I said looking up at her. “Just not what I was looking for, I guess.”
“What are you looking for?”
“You know, the usual,” I said. “Romance, marriage, two-and-a-half kids, a mortgage, a mini-van. How about you?”
“I just want to have some hot, sweaty sex and then I want to get a good night’s sleep.”
“You know all that stuff I said before about marriage and kids, and that van thing? It can all wait. I’m all about hot, sweaty sex tonight.”
“Glad to hear it,” she said. “I’m done here in ten minutes. Meet me out in the lobby.”
“I’ll see you there,” I said.
“Oh, and this time, don’t make so much noise when you leave.”
“You don’t mind if I leave when we’re done?” I asked.
“I would prefer it.”
“You really are a dream come true.”
“Sweet talker,” she said as she walked away. I enjoyed the view until she walked around the corner. It looked like it would be me and the waitress again.
“I’ve got mine,” I said to no one in particular.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
When I walked into the bar almost two hours later, Bill, Ken, and Keith were already sitting at the table. The rat pack was back. Frank, Dean, and Sammy were in the house. I guess that made me Peter Lawford.
Everyone was dressed just as they had been before, except Keith was missing his tie. “What happened to your tie?” I asked.
“A nasty accident with some chocolate sauce, I’m afraid.”
“You lose more ties that way,” I said. “Did everyone have a good night?”
“So far, so good,” Bill said. “But the night isn’t over yet.”
“You’re not planning on a second round, are you?” I asked.
“We’d be fools not to.”
“Okay, count me in,” I said.
Just then, there was a commotion near the entrance to the bar. The bouncers were holding back a crowd. Through the crowd walked a striking young man. As he entered the bar, a woman right in front of him asked, “Who are you?”
“Baudoin,” came the reply. “Paul Baudoin.” The woman feinted.
“Bodie,” I yelled out and he came walking over to the table. Joey Bishop had finally made it.
“Where have you been,” Ken asked.
“I had to work late at the paper.” It was an old joke and we all laughed.
The manager of the hotel came up to our table. “Hello fellas. How are you doing tonight?”
“So far, so good,” Bill said again.
“Glad to hear it. I was wondering, Mr. Baudoin, if you wouldn’t mind singing a song for us. It would mean a lot to me.”
“What about Buble’?
“Mr. Buble’ works for me. If I tell him to get off the stage so you can sing a song, then he’ll get off the stage.”
“I’d by happy to, but just one,” Paul said.
“Yes, sir,” The manager said excitedly. He turned to talk to the man that was standing next to him. “Tell Bubbles to take a break. Mr. Baudoin is going to sing us a song.
In all of the commotion over Bodie, I hadn’t noticed that Keith had disappeared. I looked around the crowded bar but couldn’t find him.
“Ladies and Gentlemen,” the hotel manager said into the microphone. “Please welcome the incomparable, Mr. Paul Baudoin. The crowd cheered and Bodie walked onto the stage.
I looked up at the bar, but Keith wasn’t there either. He may have gone to the bathroom, I thought to myself, but he usually liked to announce it to the group before he left.
“Thank you,” Paul said. “Thank you very much. I’d like to do one of my favorite songs for you. I hope it’s one of your favorites too…
Just then I caught site of Keith. He was across the room talking to an older woman in a wheelchair.
“… This is called, “My Way.”
The lights came down, the band got ready to play, and then a voice from across the room yelled out, “I’ve got mine.”
It was Saturday night and the joint was jumping. Of course, in Las Vegas, the joint was always jumping.
The four of us sat around the table dressed to the nines. We were cool, the nicotine-free rat pack. We were looking for love and this was the right place.
Michael Buble had the place swinging as he belted out the last few notes to “Fever.” As the waitress brought another round of cocktails to the table, “The Bubble Man,” looked over at us and gave the thumbs up sign.
“This one worked last night for you, Bill. Let’s see if it works again.” Wild Bill gave “The Bubble Man” a big smile and returned the thumbs up. The band started to play and Bubbles launched into a very seductive version of “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine.”
“Time to get busy, boys,” Bill said. With that, he spotted a sweet young blond at the bar, and gave her the old thumb and finger “pistol” point. The woman smiled coyly at Bill as she sipped her drink through the straw.
”Watch and learn,” Bill said as he sealed the deal with a sly wink. The woman put her drink on the bar, waved her room key in Bill’s direction, and headed out of the bar.
“I’ve got mine,” Bill announced and got up from the table to follow after the young blond.
“That was impressive,” Keith said.
“Damn impressive,” I said.
We both looked over at Ken to see that he had set up some sort of table with what looked like handle bars on it. “The doctor’s breaking out the heavy equipment tonight,” Keith said.
Mikey Bubbles was rocking once again to a swinging version of “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.”
“Freddie Mercury must be rolling over in his grave,” Keith said.
“He did that a lot when he was alive, too,” I said. Keith laughed and raised his glass in a mock salute.
Just then the waitress brought over a couple of drinks. “These drinks are from the two lovely ladies up at the bar.” We turned to see two women, a brunette and a redhead, waving to us from the bar.
“I’ll take the redhead,” I said.
“I’ve got the brunette.”
The two women walked over to our table and we offered them each a chair. “Please, sit down,” Keith said. The woman each accepted a chair. “My name is Tom and this is Harold,” Keith said pointing to me.
I hated it when he called me Harold. Why couldn't he call me Max or Ricardo or Hans Solo? Anything but Harold.
“I’m Holly,” the brunette said.
“And I’m Sheila, the redhead said. Her bright blue eyes were in stark contrast to her long, curly red hair.
“What is your friend doing over there?” Sheila asked pointing at Ken. He had put on a white smock over his tux, and on his head he was wearing one of those mirrors with a hole in the middle.
“It’s okay,” I said. “He’s a doctor.”
Is he a gynecologist?” Sheila asked.
“No, he actually makes his living as a pediatrician. Doing gynecological check-ups is just a hobby he does on evenings and weekends.”
Bubbles slowed things down with “The Way You Look Tonight.”
“I love this song,” Holly said.
“Would you like to dance?” Keith asked standing up and offering his hand to Holly.
“Sure”
“What about you, Harold? Are you a dancer?”
It took me a moment to remember that I was Harold. “Absolutely.”
As we danced, Sheila snuggled up close to me and whispered in my ear. “Are you looking for a little love tonight?”
I looked down at her shining bright eyes. “Every night,” I said.
Sheila laughed. “For five hundred bucks, I’m yours, at least for tonight.”
“You mean you didn’t send over that drink just because I’m irresistible?
“Of course that’s why I sent it over,” Sheila said. “But a girl’s got to make a living.”
When the song was over, Bubbles announced that he was taking a break and would be right back. As we made our way back to the table, Sheila said, “Holly and I need to freshen up. Wait for us?”
Before I could say anything, Keith said, “We’ll be right here.” The two women walked away seductively. Although Holly was limping a bit, it seemed to me that there was a purpose in the way they walked.
“Why’s Holly limping? Did you step on her foot while you were dancing?” I asked.
“Actually, I did step on her foot, but that’s not why she’s limping,” Keith said. She’s limping because she has an artificial leg.” Keith had a big smile on his face.
“Does she have a glass eye too,” I asked.
“No, but you can’t have everything.”
“You know, they’re both pros.”
“Yeah, I know. Five hundred bucks.”
“Should we send them packing,” I asked.
“No way. Didn’t you just hear what I said?” Keith leaned in to make sure I didn’t miss a word he said. “She has a prosthetic leg.” Keith annunciated each syllable of prosthetic. “And she has agreed to call me Chico. She’s just one glass eye away from a jackpot.”
“I guess two out of three isn’t bad.”
“You’ve got that right,” Keith said and knocked back the last of his drink.
When the ladies returned, Holly said, “Tommy, are you ready to go?”
Keith stood up quickly. “Let’s go.” As he walked away from the table, Keith looked at me and mouthed the words, “I’ve got mine.”
“So what about you, sailor? Should we get out of here?” Sheila asked.
“I hate not to do my part to help grow the economy, but I’m afraid I’m going to have to pass,” I said.
“In that case, thank you for the dance,” Sheila said standing up.
“And thank you for the drink.”
“Maybe I’ll see you again,” she said with a big smile. She leaned over and gave me a kiss on the cheek.
“Maybe you will,” I said as sincerely as I could. As she headed out of the bar, I admired the way she walked. At least looking was free.
“I’ve got mine,” Ken called out from his makeshift clinic against the wall. I’m not sure what he was looking for, but he apparently found it. He helped a tall woman out of the stirrups and off the table. She grabbed her purse and they made their way out of the bar.
I sat by myself at the table and felt lonely. It was just me, my drink, and Michael Buble’ singing “Moondance.” At least Van Morison songs always cheered me up.
“What happened to you and the redhead?” the waitress asked.
“I don’t know,” I said looking up at her. “Just not what I was looking for, I guess.”
“What are you looking for?”
“You know, the usual,” I said. “Romance, marriage, two-and-a-half kids, a mortgage, a mini-van. How about you?”
“I just want to have some hot, sweaty sex and then I want to get a good night’s sleep.”
“You know all that stuff I said before about marriage and kids, and that van thing? It can all wait. I’m all about hot, sweaty sex tonight.”
“Glad to hear it,” she said. “I’m done here in ten minutes. Meet me out in the lobby.”
“I’ll see you there,” I said.
“Oh, and this time, don’t make so much noise when you leave.”
“You don’t mind if I leave when we’re done?” I asked.
“I would prefer it.”
“You really are a dream come true.”
“Sweet talker,” she said as she walked away. I enjoyed the view until she walked around the corner. It looked like it would be me and the waitress again.
“I’ve got mine,” I said to no one in particular.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
When I walked into the bar almost two hours later, Bill, Ken, and Keith were already sitting at the table. The rat pack was back. Frank, Dean, and Sammy were in the house. I guess that made me Peter Lawford.
Everyone was dressed just as they had been before, except Keith was missing his tie. “What happened to your tie?” I asked.
“A nasty accident with some chocolate sauce, I’m afraid.”
“You lose more ties that way,” I said. “Did everyone have a good night?”
“So far, so good,” Bill said. “But the night isn’t over yet.”
“You’re not planning on a second round, are you?” I asked.
“We’d be fools not to.”
“Okay, count me in,” I said.
Just then, there was a commotion near the entrance to the bar. The bouncers were holding back a crowd. Through the crowd walked a striking young man. As he entered the bar, a woman right in front of him asked, “Who are you?”
“Baudoin,” came the reply. “Paul Baudoin.” The woman feinted.
“Bodie,” I yelled out and he came walking over to the table. Joey Bishop had finally made it.
“Where have you been,” Ken asked.
“I had to work late at the paper.” It was an old joke and we all laughed.
The manager of the hotel came up to our table. “Hello fellas. How are you doing tonight?”
“So far, so good,” Bill said again.
“Glad to hear it. I was wondering, Mr. Baudoin, if you wouldn’t mind singing a song for us. It would mean a lot to me.”
“What about Buble’?
“Mr. Buble’ works for me. If I tell him to get off the stage so you can sing a song, then he’ll get off the stage.”
“I’d by happy to, but just one,” Paul said.
“Yes, sir,” The manager said excitedly. He turned to talk to the man that was standing next to him. “Tell Bubbles to take a break. Mr. Baudoin is going to sing us a song.
In all of the commotion over Bodie, I hadn’t noticed that Keith had disappeared. I looked around the crowded bar but couldn’t find him.
“Ladies and Gentlemen,” the hotel manager said into the microphone. “Please welcome the incomparable, Mr. Paul Baudoin. The crowd cheered and Bodie walked onto the stage.
I looked up at the bar, but Keith wasn’t there either. He may have gone to the bathroom, I thought to myself, but he usually liked to announce it to the group before he left.
“Thank you,” Paul said. “Thank you very much. I’d like to do one of my favorite songs for you. I hope it’s one of your favorites too…
Just then I caught site of Keith. He was across the room talking to an older woman in a wheelchair.
“… This is called, “My Way.”
The lights came down, the band got ready to play, and then a voice from across the room yelled out, “I’ve got mine.”
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
Turn Around, Bright Eyes
It was taco night last night at the Mindar Hacienda and the result was a night of wild dreams (and a bit of flatulence). One dream in particular stuck with me and I’d like to share it with you now (it sounds like I’m getting ready to sing).
NOTE: You may recall that I believe strongly that our dreams are influenced by what we eat. As a registered dreamologist, I prescribe bacon just before bed for those patients wishing to have a strange dream. Obviously, other fried foods, such as taco meat, can also get the job done.
Back to the dream...
We were all going fishing. As we piled into the boat (some sort of dory-type craft), the guide started telling us all about his fishing adventures in France. The guide was a rather pompous man and he was kind of talking down to us as he told his stories.
As it turned out, Ken knew all about the places the guide was talking about and would comment about everything the guide said. Ken's knowledge of all things French seemed to unnerve the guide a bit. While he was doing this, Ken was sitting in a relaxed, cross-legged manner in the front of the boat. He was wearing a vest and sport coat (the kind with patches on the elbows), and he was smoking a droopy, Sherlock Holmes-type pipe. Very distinguished.
As we shoved off (that’s nautical talk), the five of us were all on this small boat, but then the little boat turned into a much bigger boat and Queebs and Bodie disappeared. Ken, WFB, and I remained on the larger ship.
The sea was angry, my friends. Waves crashed over the side of the ship and it rocked violently. The fishing guide (who was now the captain of the ship) seemed unconcerned about the angry seas, but he was very concerned about making sure that everyone on the ship threw their garbage into the designated trash cans. He marched around the ship demanding that everyone throw their garbage into the trash cans that were provided. The cans were silver metal garbage cans and they had a black garbage bag liner in them. The metal lid was held down by a bungee cord. I don’t know why I remember that, but I do.
Ken was going around the ship picking up garbage and WFB followed along behind him knocking over garbage cans. Ken would fill the garbage cans, Bill would knock them over, and the fishing guide/captain would anxiously run around the ship picking up the cans and yelling at Bill. All the while, I was trying to find something to hold on to so I wouldn’t be swept overboard.
Suddenly, we were back at the dock and everyone from the ship was gathering around a picnic table. I sat down at the table, looked to my right, and there was the infamous Greg “Bird” Royal. I made a big deal out Bird being there, but Ken and Bill seemed unimpressed.
Instead of sitting at the picnic table, Bird and I were suddenly sitting on a parking standard when Bird announced that he wanted some ice cream. When he said that, I noticed that we were sitting in the parking lot of an ice cream store. As we were going in to the store, Ken was coming out. His face was covered with ice cream and chocolate, and he was chastising me for going in to get some ice cream. I grabbed some chocolate off of his face, but it was all melted and gooey.
Next thing I know, we’re back at the picnic table and Bird starts singing Total Eclipse of the Heart. He sang the song very well and really made it his own (I’ve been watching too much American Idol). Everyone joined in and I sang the “turn around, bright eyes” part in my lovely falsetto voice.
Once upon a time I was falling in love
But now I'm only falling apart
There's nothing I can do
A total eclipse of the heart
Once upon a time there was light in my life
But now there's only love in the dark
Nothing I can say
A total eclipse of the heart
It was a touching way to end the dream. Like so many things in my life (including this story) the dream really didn’t go anywhere. Yet, I woke up feeling good that I had gotten to spend a little time with my friends. Of course, Queebs and Bodie snuck off to do God knows what, but it was still a good time.
So I guess the obvious question at this point is, where is Bird?
NOTE: You may recall that I believe strongly that our dreams are influenced by what we eat. As a registered dreamologist, I prescribe bacon just before bed for those patients wishing to have a strange dream. Obviously, other fried foods, such as taco meat, can also get the job done.
Back to the dream...
We were all going fishing. As we piled into the boat (some sort of dory-type craft), the guide started telling us all about his fishing adventures in France. The guide was a rather pompous man and he was kind of talking down to us as he told his stories.
As it turned out, Ken knew all about the places the guide was talking about and would comment about everything the guide said. Ken's knowledge of all things French seemed to unnerve the guide a bit. While he was doing this, Ken was sitting in a relaxed, cross-legged manner in the front of the boat. He was wearing a vest and sport coat (the kind with patches on the elbows), and he was smoking a droopy, Sherlock Holmes-type pipe. Very distinguished.
As we shoved off (that’s nautical talk), the five of us were all on this small boat, but then the little boat turned into a much bigger boat and Queebs and Bodie disappeared. Ken, WFB, and I remained on the larger ship.
The sea was angry, my friends. Waves crashed over the side of the ship and it rocked violently. The fishing guide (who was now the captain of the ship) seemed unconcerned about the angry seas, but he was very concerned about making sure that everyone on the ship threw their garbage into the designated trash cans. He marched around the ship demanding that everyone throw their garbage into the trash cans that were provided. The cans were silver metal garbage cans and they had a black garbage bag liner in them. The metal lid was held down by a bungee cord. I don’t know why I remember that, but I do.
Ken was going around the ship picking up garbage and WFB followed along behind him knocking over garbage cans. Ken would fill the garbage cans, Bill would knock them over, and the fishing guide/captain would anxiously run around the ship picking up the cans and yelling at Bill. All the while, I was trying to find something to hold on to so I wouldn’t be swept overboard.
Suddenly, we were back at the dock and everyone from the ship was gathering around a picnic table. I sat down at the table, looked to my right, and there was the infamous Greg “Bird” Royal. I made a big deal out Bird being there, but Ken and Bill seemed unimpressed.
Instead of sitting at the picnic table, Bird and I were suddenly sitting on a parking standard when Bird announced that he wanted some ice cream. When he said that, I noticed that we were sitting in the parking lot of an ice cream store. As we were going in to the store, Ken was coming out. His face was covered with ice cream and chocolate, and he was chastising me for going in to get some ice cream. I grabbed some chocolate off of his face, but it was all melted and gooey.
Next thing I know, we’re back at the picnic table and Bird starts singing Total Eclipse of the Heart. He sang the song very well and really made it his own (I’ve been watching too much American Idol). Everyone joined in and I sang the “turn around, bright eyes” part in my lovely falsetto voice.
Once upon a time I was falling in love
But now I'm only falling apart
There's nothing I can do
A total eclipse of the heart
Once upon a time there was light in my life
But now there's only love in the dark
Nothing I can say
A total eclipse of the heart
It was a touching way to end the dream. Like so many things in my life (including this story) the dream really didn’t go anywhere. Yet, I woke up feeling good that I had gotten to spend a little time with my friends. Of course, Queebs and Bodie snuck off to do God knows what, but it was still a good time.
So I guess the obvious question at this point is, where is Bird?
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Claims to FAME
I haven't rubbed shoulders with many (virtually any) celebs in my lifetime. I met a few ex and future big leaguers while doing the an internship in the minor leagues (wow, was that a lifetime ago). My current claim to fame (or "infame") deals with the ex-principal at the Chicago Heights grade school who was videoed/busted for having sex in his office. Now Queebs, don't get jealous...I wasn't a performor on the video! I have, however, seen the guy playing with his balls on several ocassions!!! He was a regular Saturday morning player at my golf course. We have been in the same fouresome (again Queebs, "foursome" means something else in this context) several times. The guy was "long", but not very straight...same as his golf game ! ;-)
Kenny...have you heard the story on this guy? It's big local news, but I saw a write-up on foxnews.com Anyway, have you guys had any interesting encounters with any "celebs?"
Kenny...have you heard the story on this guy? It's big local news, but I saw a write-up on foxnews.com Anyway, have you guys had any interesting encounters with any "celebs?"
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
The Season Is Upon Us
Hello boys, and happy baseball season. I wanted to remind you that you can follow your favorite team (except you Bodie) by visiting www.cubscafe.blogspot.com. You'll enjoy (or be infuriated by) my insights into all things Cubs. Feel free to leave lots of comments. It will look like people actual read what I write.
As a special bonus, I am beta testing (that sounds so cool) a Brewers blog. There are currently some glitches with the site (like displaying the profile from my Cubs blog), but I'm working on them. Read about your favorite Milwaukee National League Baseball Club at www.brewersbuzz.blogspot.com
Bodie, I don't follow the White Sox so I'm afraid I don't have anything for you. Why don't you read about the Cubs and maybe we can lure you away from the dark side.
As a special bonus, I am beta testing (that sounds so cool) a Brewers blog. There are currently some glitches with the site (like displaying the profile from my Cubs blog), but I'm working on them. Read about your favorite Milwaukee National League Baseball Club at www.brewersbuzz.blogspot.com
Bodie, I don't follow the White Sox so I'm afraid I don't have anything for you. Why don't you read about the Cubs and maybe we can lure you away from the dark side.
Monday, March 26, 2007
The Final Four Thread
The last thread was getting pretty long, so I thought I'd start another one to let us prognosticate about the Final Four. When you visit this thread for the first time, let the world know who you think will win each semi-final game and then the Championship game. The match-ups are:
Florida vs UCLA
Georgetown vs Ohio St.
For the championship game, be sure to include a tiebreaker (the total score for the championship game).
Bragging rights are on the line, so think through your picks before posting them. You wouldn't want to be embarrassed, would you?
Florida vs UCLA
Georgetown vs Ohio St.
For the championship game, be sure to include a tiebreaker (the total score for the championship game).
Bragging rights are on the line, so think through your picks before posting them. You wouldn't want to be embarrassed, would you?
Friday, March 16, 2007
Let the Trash Talk Begin...
I figured we needed a new thread so we could do a little trash talking about our NCAA bracket picks. Even if you didn't get a chance to submit a bracket sheet on the Sportsline site, let everyone know how you are doing. But at least do us the honor of being truthful. Any BS claims will not be tolerated and will be dealt with harshly.
So let the trash talk begin...
So let the trash talk begin...
Thursday, March 8, 2007
ACC tourney
Ok, so I am out of the blog for awhile. It is the ACC weekend-and it don't matter if Duke does not do well. Everyone kinda stops everything here, this weekend-so guys-keep it up. I do have CD's burned-plan to mail tomorrow.
Friday, March 2, 2007
Time for Pizza
Is anyone up for pizza next Saturday (3/10)? The family and I are going to be in Madison during the day and could head down toward Chicago afterward. We could meet at Queebs house (I haven't cleared it with him yet) or we could just meet at a local pizzeria. I've kind of had a hankering for Ach & Lou's recently.
Anyway, is anyone up for this? Bill, its a little bit of a drive for you, but it will be worth it. Ken, start checking flights. We could pick you up at the airport on our way south.
Let me know what you think.
Anyway, is anyone up for this? Bill, its a little bit of a drive for you, but it will be worth it. Ken, start checking flights. We could pick you up at the airport on our way south.
Let me know what you think.
Monday, February 26, 2007
MIAs
Brett Morely...That is his name as I remember. What ever happened to that guy? Anybody trying to get any leads on Bird? Maybe his brother, John, still lives in Macomb.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Tunes and IPod's
Ok, Ok now that we got Wild (or Mild)-I'm not sure which is right (teetoltalling not withstanding), now I feel that I can talk more about my obscession-collecting tunes. Of course, I continue to have other unhealthy habits in drinking and smoking. Anyway, I do plan to send you back your X-mas CD, Bill. I was wondering what else I might send you. It is one of my greatest joys to supply people with music. The nurse that I work with-her parents recently celebrated their 40th anniversary-she asked me for a list of songs they might like. She is Afro-american. I asked some things about them. She said they liked to dance, party and she had a pic of them with big Afros and showing peace signs. It turned out they were'nt really into the peace or equal rights movement of the 60's. I told her I would just burn somethings for her-she tried to give me a blank CD. I told her-NO, NO, NO-it will take many more than one. I burned her 10 CD's-all things I already had. Anyway, what are guys into? I'm thinking about a 70's mix, but so much of it sucked. Do you listen to any new music? Check out www.wknc.org the crazy college kids of NC State. Sorry, this is so disjointed. The boys want to use my sweet Mac for homework.
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Here's What Happened to Wild Bill
Hey Fellas,
I ain't dead...Just got Mild! I'm in my 6th year of teaching at Bradley-Bourbonnais High School..9th year of teaching after all those years of not figuring out what the hell to do. Sierra and I are both still in the same house in Bourbonnais that Kenny J and Queebs visited a few years back. Matthew is living in Aurora/Naperville (can't figure out where one stops and the other starts)...He's across the street from what used to be called Fox Valley Mall.
I've been coaching girls b-ball (rather unsucessfully, I must add) and boys golf. Things are a bit more promising on that front. Of course, all I really need to do there is make sure they get on the bus and fill out score cards. After that, I just ride around on a cart drinking Diet Pepsi! I'm a Special Ed. Resource teacher. This year I collaborate in Algebra I and Junior English classes, teach a SPED US History class, and have a couple of hours of Resource where I help kids with whatever subject matter they need help with! Pretty sweet gig. I'm not getting rich, but I'm making the world such a better place.
I haven't been in contact with anyone from WIU, except for Stoney Al. Remeber him? He calls from time to time and came her to visit last summer. The guy probably weighs about 300 lbs now! He still works at the Pentagon. I think he's DEEP undercover for some serious al Qaeda ass-kicking shit! ;-)
Anyway, I've become very mild. I think I've had one beer in the last 18 months. The summer before last was the last time I got shit-faced, and I think I'm still a bit hungover from that. I used to harken back on the good old times with fondness. Now those thoughts make me queasy.
The highlight of this past month was the BEAT DOWN the Bears took in the big game! My year would have been miserable if the Bears had won...You Bears fans are such assholes about winning! It took about 10 years for you guys to be "bearable" after the '85 season. GO PACKERS!!!
Mild "ex-Wild" Bill
I ain't dead...Just got Mild! I'm in my 6th year of teaching at Bradley-Bourbonnais High School..9th year of teaching after all those years of not figuring out what the hell to do. Sierra and I are both still in the same house in Bourbonnais that Kenny J and Queebs visited a few years back. Matthew is living in Aurora/Naperville (can't figure out where one stops and the other starts)...He's across the street from what used to be called Fox Valley Mall.
I've been coaching girls b-ball (rather unsucessfully, I must add) and boys golf. Things are a bit more promising on that front. Of course, all I really need to do there is make sure they get on the bus and fill out score cards. After that, I just ride around on a cart drinking Diet Pepsi! I'm a Special Ed. Resource teacher. This year I collaborate in Algebra I and Junior English classes, teach a SPED US History class, and have a couple of hours of Resource where I help kids with whatever subject matter they need help with! Pretty sweet gig. I'm not getting rich, but I'm making the world such a better place.
I haven't been in contact with anyone from WIU, except for Stoney Al. Remeber him? He calls from time to time and came her to visit last summer. The guy probably weighs about 300 lbs now! He still works at the Pentagon. I think he's DEEP undercover for some serious al Qaeda ass-kicking shit! ;-)
Anyway, I've become very mild. I think I've had one beer in the last 18 months. The summer before last was the last time I got shit-faced, and I think I'm still a bit hungover from that. I used to harken back on the good old times with fondness. Now those thoughts make me queasy.
The highlight of this past month was the BEAT DOWN the Bears took in the big game! My year would have been miserable if the Bears had won...You Bears fans are such assholes about winning! It took about 10 years for you guys to be "bearable" after the '85 season. GO PACKERS!!!
Mild "ex-Wild" Bill
Friday, February 23, 2007
It's Gonna Snow
Howdy fellas. I hope all is going well for you. I thought I would share some random thoughts while I sit at home taking care of my sick son.
We are expecting 8-12" of snow this weekend. I went out this morning to make sure the snowblower would start. It wouldn't. I'm having a friend come over later this afternoon to see if he can get it started, but I'm not holding out much hope. I'm not even sure why I bother. I can get the drive plowed for $20, but having the snowblower running gives me the freedom to clear the drive whenever I want. I'm never sure when the plow is going to show up.
It's been awfully quiet on the blogfront the past couple of days. A little too quiet. What is going on with you guys? You need to post here at least once per day, and preferably several times per day. It's your obligation, your responsibility, your solemn duty. Let's not let each other down. And remember, in the end, it's for the children.
What's the deal with U of I getting rid of Chief Illiniwek? From things I've read, the Illini indians were either a)wiped out by the Fox, Saux, etc. indians so they don't even exist anymore (i.e. no one to insult), or b)they are a completely made up tribe of indians that were created by a student writer in the early 20th century (If that's true, I wonder what they were called before that. Hmmm...)
In any case, it just seems foolish to take political correctness so far. If no one from the Illini tribe is complaining (if there even is such a tribe), what harm is there in keeping Chief Illiniwek? Having the Chief (usually portrayed by a white kid) perform at sporting events has become a tradition. And it is meant as a show of respect and honor, not insult. I think it is a mistake to get rid of him.
That's all from me. Now start writing.
We are expecting 8-12" of snow this weekend. I went out this morning to make sure the snowblower would start. It wouldn't. I'm having a friend come over later this afternoon to see if he can get it started, but I'm not holding out much hope. I'm not even sure why I bother. I can get the drive plowed for $20, but having the snowblower running gives me the freedom to clear the drive whenever I want. I'm never sure when the plow is going to show up.
It's been awfully quiet on the blogfront the past couple of days. A little too quiet. What is going on with you guys? You need to post here at least once per day, and preferably several times per day. It's your obligation, your responsibility, your solemn duty. Let's not let each other down. And remember, in the end, it's for the children.
What's the deal with U of I getting rid of Chief Illiniwek? From things I've read, the Illini indians were either a)wiped out by the Fox, Saux, etc. indians so they don't even exist anymore (i.e. no one to insult), or b)they are a completely made up tribe of indians that were created by a student writer in the early 20th century (If that's true, I wonder what they were called before that. Hmmm...)
In any case, it just seems foolish to take political correctness so far. If no one from the Illini tribe is complaining (if there even is such a tribe), what harm is there in keeping Chief Illiniwek? Having the Chief (usually portrayed by a white kid) perform at sporting events has become a tradition. And it is meant as a show of respect and honor, not insult. I think it is a mistake to get rid of him.
That's all from me. Now start writing.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Other Buds?
You guys are all very interesting and what not, but we can invite other people to this forum. I don't really know who or for that matter have any contact with anyone else from high school. I did try to email Mark Bettcher at some high school in Illinois, trying to get a line on Paul, but got no response. I don't know-we can be very selective-or invite just about everyone. I started the blog-but its OUR blog. Any thoughts on this.
Sunday, February 18, 2007
The Boring Life of Bodie
Hey All,
Good idea by Ken to create this forum to keep in touch! This is the third time I have tried to post and each time it has disappeared so hopefully this is the charm.
Nothing much has changed with us since the E-mails last fall. I am settling in with Lowe's and I like it there. Don't have a permanent home store or position yet, but I scored high on their tests so hopefully that will help. Robin is still doing the workout thing part time for Shape Express, a women's only club. We are keeping are fingers crossed though because five other clubs in the area have closed in the last few months. Supposedly the person that might be buying her club wants to keep it open under a new name so helpfully she is safe because she really likes getting paid to workout. I also like it every other Friday.
The kids are keeping us busy like just like yours do. Jenna is in 4th grade, Eric in 7th and Bryan is a junior and starting to think about the college thing. I am thinking about which bank to rob to pay for it so if I don't write for a few years you will know I stunk at that profession. They are into all sorts of scouts and sports so were are always running. Amy bought Bryan an old car so that helps with the driving at least. Keith, I just got back from a cabin campout and it was just the same as when we were in scouts-lots of noise and little sleep.
Talk to you all later, Lou I'll take one with kethcup and mustard.
Bodie
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
The Sad, Strange Life of Lou Mindar
Hello my friends. I've been going through a mid-life crisis since the age of 25 or so, so my latest crisis probably shouldn't be that surprising. In fact, if you think about it, maybe that's all life is; just one crisis after another that eventually adds up to a life. That's pretty deep.
Anyway, my latest crisis actually started a few years ago. In 2003 I had my insurance agency and Kim was working as a claim rep in the claim office in La Crosse, about an hour away from our home. Money was tight, but we were making ends meet. Unfortunately, the company was going through a consolidation and the La Crosse office was closed. Kim's job was moved to Milwaukee. Since we counted on Kim's job to pay our bills, we moved away from Viroqua to Milwaukee in September 2003 so she could keep her job. Three months later I was diagnosed with cancer (did you hear?).
Between having cancer and living three hours away from my office, I was away from the business for the better part of 2004 and 2005. During that time, my income decreased about $25,000 annually. Since we were just barely making it before I got sick, the decrease in income really hurt.
When I was healthy enough to get back to the office, I started commuting, spending 2-3 days each week in the office and the rest of the time I ran the business from home. Honestly, that wasn't enough time to be in the office, but I didn't want to be away from Kim and the kids any more than that. My income was still down and now I was spending about $1000 per month (gas, food, lodging) to commute. It was obvious something had to change.
In the end, we decided that Kim would give up her job and we'd move back to Viroqua to try to jump start the agency. We moved back last summer and the agency has turned around some. Our sales are up and my income is almost back to where it was before I got sick. Of course, we gave up Kim's income which was significantly more than we've gained in the agency. Kim needs to find a job making the kind of money she was making before, but there are none of those kinds of jobs in our little, rural town. Even over in La Crosse she hasn't been able to find anything that would come close.
I've spoken to State Farm about getting back on with the company, but so far I've been told 1) I'll probably need to take a step back from the position I had previously in order to get back in, and 2) I'm over qualified to do the job that would be a level below what I did previously. That's frustrating. There's still a chance I may be able to get back on with the company, but at the momement it's not looking too promising.
I'm not sure what we're going to do. We've pretty much depleted our savings and are getting by right now with smoke and mirors. This can't go on much longer.
There's part of me that feels like I should be practical and just go find a job with another insurance company. I'd have to start my career over again (at age 47), but at least I'd have a paycheck. Then there's part of me that thinks, this is no time to run back to the comfort of a corporate job. I need to break away from insurance (which I've never really cared for) and do something that is important to me, like starting a hotdog stand.
Anyway, I'm open to any suggestions you might have. Be warned, I probably won't take your advice, but I'll appreciate it just the same.
Thanks!
Anyway, my latest crisis actually started a few years ago. In 2003 I had my insurance agency and Kim was working as a claim rep in the claim office in La Crosse, about an hour away from our home. Money was tight, but we were making ends meet. Unfortunately, the company was going through a consolidation and the La Crosse office was closed. Kim's job was moved to Milwaukee. Since we counted on Kim's job to pay our bills, we moved away from Viroqua to Milwaukee in September 2003 so she could keep her job. Three months later I was diagnosed with cancer (did you hear?).
Between having cancer and living three hours away from my office, I was away from the business for the better part of 2004 and 2005. During that time, my income decreased about $25,000 annually. Since we were just barely making it before I got sick, the decrease in income really hurt.
When I was healthy enough to get back to the office, I started commuting, spending 2-3 days each week in the office and the rest of the time I ran the business from home. Honestly, that wasn't enough time to be in the office, but I didn't want to be away from Kim and the kids any more than that. My income was still down and now I was spending about $1000 per month (gas, food, lodging) to commute. It was obvious something had to change.
In the end, we decided that Kim would give up her job and we'd move back to Viroqua to try to jump start the agency. We moved back last summer and the agency has turned around some. Our sales are up and my income is almost back to where it was before I got sick. Of course, we gave up Kim's income which was significantly more than we've gained in the agency. Kim needs to find a job making the kind of money she was making before, but there are none of those kinds of jobs in our little, rural town. Even over in La Crosse she hasn't been able to find anything that would come close.
I've spoken to State Farm about getting back on with the company, but so far I've been told 1) I'll probably need to take a step back from the position I had previously in order to get back in, and 2) I'm over qualified to do the job that would be a level below what I did previously. That's frustrating. There's still a chance I may be able to get back on with the company, but at the momement it's not looking too promising.
I'm not sure what we're going to do. We've pretty much depleted our savings and are getting by right now with smoke and mirors. This can't go on much longer.
There's part of me that feels like I should be practical and just go find a job with another insurance company. I'd have to start my career over again (at age 47), but at least I'd have a paycheck. Then there's part of me that thinks, this is no time to run back to the comfort of a corporate job. I need to break away from insurance (which I've never really cared for) and do something that is important to me, like starting a hotdog stand.
Anyway, I'm open to any suggestions you might have. Be warned, I probably won't take your advice, but I'll appreciate it just the same.
Thanks!
Sunday, February 11, 2007
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