Common Sense?

Sucks to be you!

2009-04-06T12:59:00.002-05:00

Ferrari -vs- Train

Apparently the story is, he is the owner of an exotic auto repair shop. This might not have even been his own car. Gotta love it. DMV's best strikes again.

Day Five (Sunday)

2009-03-10T17:35:00.004-05:00

The plan: Finish the project...
Nope, not quite. We got the tar paper laid out and the shingles on. Finished up a couple touch up spots with the house wrap and installed the door. I also installed 2 vents and a skylight. We are not running power to the shed. I got vetoed on that idea. I am however going to get a couple solar spot lights to add some light to the yard.

At the very least we had to get to this point of the project. We are now expecting cooler weather and rain all week. With the shed wrapped and shingled, it should be fine in the weather.

Side Note: It was windy all week during this project. That didn't help anything.

Day Four (Saturday)

2009-03-10T17:24:00.005-05:00

This is the day I had hoped to get the entire project done. It didn't happen. I had some help from a couple neighbors and we got a lot done. We got the roof up, building wrapped and the window cut out and hung. It's definitely taking shape.

You can't see the window but it's there. We didn't cut the wrap yet.

Day Three (Friday)

2009-03-10T12:10:00.005-05:00

On this day I got the sheathing up with a little help from my neighbor. That's all I got done visually. I spent more time thinking about the roof. The shed was looking a little taller than I was hoping. I was thinking about changing the roof style to a standard pitched roof. Not my ideal choice but I needed to try to find a way to lower the finished height. To be continued...

You'll notice the "foil" exterior. This is for a couple reasons. It's called a radiant barrier. This is supposed to act like insulation for a fraction of the cost. It also means while I'm in the shed I don't have to wear my foil hat.

Day Two (Thursday)

2009-03-10T12:00:00.005-05:00

I started the day cutting all my pieces to get the walls framed out. I also spent some time figuring out how I was going to frame out the roof. Once that was done, I put it all together. In this picture you can see all my framed out walls. You'll also see my sample frame in the background for the roof.

Day One (Tuesday)

2009-03-03T17:37:00.007-06:00

Current project- Shed

Day One- Foundation and Floor.
I broke ground on this project at around noon, once the sun had time to warm things up a bit. I think the hardest part of this project was leveling and positioning the foundation blocks. That took most of my time today. Once that was done, I started framing out the floor. It was smooth sailing from there. All in all I worked about 6 hours today. I think the hardest part is behind me now. The next thing that I think my be a challenge is the roof. We will see. I hope to get that started/ done on Saturday. (if I can find some help)

About the shed. The plan is for an 8x12 barn style. The height has yet to be determined. The doors I got are 30"x 80". They are standard entry doors. I need to modify them into french doors. I am also putting in a window and a skylight. I'll keep you posted on the progress.

Note: This post will be updated with pictures once I find my card reader.

/Slap

2009-02-24T19:21:00.003-06:00

In a recent interview with Robert Plant he basically said, The reason for not wanting to do a Led Zeppelin Reunion tour is because the critics. He doesn't want people to compare the way he sounds now at 50 verses his 20's. To this I have 2 things to say. 1) Since when does "Led Zeppelin" care what the critics say? 2) Bull Shit excuse! Of course people are going to do that. Its stupid but that what stupid people do. Its not about having a 25 year old voice. Its about playing great music the you enjoy and your fans want to hear. But No! You slap us in the face with a "no, I'm afraid of what the critics will say?!"

So here is the big Slap. Not only is he saying no to Zeppelin. He and Krauss are doing another collaboration together. I know they won all kinds of awards and stuff for the first one. That's cool, but my opinion is it was just OK. No, I wasn't expecting anything like Zeppelin or even solo Plant stuff. It's just not my type of music. So the Real reason Plant doesn't want to do a Zeppelin tour? He's having too much fun with Krauss and hes scared of what people think.

My thoughts on Zeppelin as it stands now. I think Page, Jones and Jason Bonham should go on tour with out Plant. I think David Coverdale should take vocals. They should go on tour as "Cover Zeppelin". If Plant doesn't like it, that's just too damn bad.

New Post!

2009-02-10T11:58:00.003-06:00

Holy Crap!! I'm posting again. Well, it's been slow going. Haven't really had anything blog worthy in a while. Or at least nothing I can blog about just yet. I have run across a few DMV's Best drivers out there but nothing special.

The other day I saw a beat up piece of crap cadillac with tinted windows and a lift kit the other day. If I had a picture I would have made a good post about it.

I've also done some work around the house. I moved the bar into the dinning room to make room for some cabinets and counter space to be added to the kitchen at a later date. Along with moving the bar, I built a bar table so we can now sit at the bar. There is still a little work to be done as far as the "service" area goes. I need to build and install the drawers and a couple of shelves. Other than those minor details its done and ready for friends to come by and have a drink or some. There will still be a post about it later. I'm waiting on a couple friends to come by and see it in person before the pictures go up for all to see.

In more resent news we splurged a little and bought a Wii. I've been wanting one ever since they originally came out. Up until last weekend I had never played with one so I didn't really miss not having one. Then once I got to play I just had to get one. Turns out it does a lot more stuff than I had thought. Its more than just a video game console. You can browse the web, get the weather and news... you can also play a lot of the old games from the original Nintendo. Of course they charge you to download them. It's not too bad though, about $5 each for most of them. So I'm pretty happy with it. We bought a couple extra games to go with it. Jess wanted the Dance Dance Revolution game so shes enjoying that. Guess that's about it. Til next time...

PS: New Years Resolution- No blogging for one month (complete)

Common Sense?

2008-12-20T12:44:00.002-06:00

OK, So we left home for Christmas this year. We are currently at Jess's parents house in WV. Everything was your typical travel kind of day. Our first flight was great. Other than the fact I had to sit in the middle, it was smooth and quiet. Then we had a lay over in Charlotte, NC. So we found our next flight and then went to the closet place to have a drink and a small bite to eat. So far so good. Then we went back to our gate to find we were showing a 30 min delay. Now to paint to picture. Our gate was fairly level with the aircraft. We sat facing the windows so we could watch the planes. Now the gate next to us got set to board. These were small planes by the way, they drop the stairs and you board. On this flight someone needed help getting up so they rolled a ramp to the plane. Then they came back inside and we heard this... "Does anyone else want to board now while the ramp is there?" So here is my question. Why not board everyone with the ramp since it is there? Why put the ramp into place for one person who needs it and then move it for other to just climb the stairs? This just wastes time. And during the holiday traveling wasting time get on peoples nerves real fast. Myself, I just got a kick out of the whole thing, given it wasn't my flight. Jess mentioned that maybe they needed the ramp for another flight. Maybe, so we watched them put it back where it was. There it stayed as we departed. So since they used it 3 flights had departed. So no, they didn't need it anywhere else. So again I ask Why not board everyone with the ramp?

So that was the entertainment part of the trip. Now our portion of the aggravation. Shortly after the flight next to us left, another flight out of our same gate boarded just before us. This was an over booked flight and asked for people to give up their seats. So someone came up and volunteered. Then our flight began boarding. The flight boarding before us still had not locked up and departed so we had stragglers from that flight mixed into our boarding. Yes, I said that too. "This cant be safe." Or a good idea. Next, we were all boarded. Then the numbers didn't match up. We had more passengers than tickets so someone didn't belong. Yep, someone missed the other flight and boarded the wrong plane. This whole proses took longer than our 45 minute flight that has now been delayed for over an hour.

The flight. The plane was small. Two seats on each side. As I said this was a short flight. Take off was a little bumpy not too bad. Once we got above the clouds and weather it was fairly smooth. Then... bumpy? Ha, That is quite the understatement. We had a good drop and several "bumps" in the air. Then we landed in Charleston, this is the place where they cut off the top of a mountain and called it a landing strip. So you see land far below, a cliff and land. This by the way was the only flight that the attendant told us about the vomit bags and then reminded us again during the turbulence to not be afraid to use them. Also while she was sitting in her seat reading a book. Was quite funny though the turbulence was pretty bad. So that's it. We landed and we are now visiting with family.

Have a good Christmas. We'll be home soon.

"Z"

Another meme

2008-12-15T11:28:00.003-06:00

This one is from "It's not Mean if it's True"/ Bold what you have done.

1. Started my own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower6. Given more than I can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland/world
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sung a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched lightning at sea
14. Taught myself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown my own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitchhiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse I think it was a total
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of my ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught myself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had my portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain I think so
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had my picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury (almost)
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Ridden an elephant

Christmas Meme

2008-12-13T11:51:00.004-06:00

Sent to me via email by my bro.

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper so I can tear into it. That's part of the fun. Its also fun to be gentle and take it slow.

2. Real tree or Artificial? Real, but we use a fake one. Its cheaper. And I don't like having to deal with getting rid of the tree.

3. When do you put up the tree? Normally, the day after Thanksgiving. Not this year though.

4. When do you take the tree down? After the New Year. We started a new "tradition". We take off all the ornaments before New Years and decorate it for our New Years Party.

5. Do you like eggnog ? Love it! But it has to be the good stuff. Promised Land is the best.

6. Favorite gift received as a child? Probably games.

7. Hardest person to buy for? My wife.

8. Do you have a nativity scene? Nope

9. Mail or email Christmas cards? Christmas cards? What Christmas cards. Oh those.. if we do them we mail them. We're slackers.

10. Worst Christmas gift you ever received ? Don't think I got a bad gift.

11. Favorite Christmas Movie? The Grinch, The Polar Express

12. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Try to get it done early but always fail. But I'm usually done before the last minute. This year doesn't count (c:}=

13. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? No, but I got one last year. From my boss. It was a Lowes gift card so it was cool. I bought a new miter saw.

14. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Prime Rib!!! Mmmmmm [Drool]

15. Lights on the tree? Are you kidding, Of course!

16. Favorite Christmas song? 12 pains of Christmas

17. Travel at Christmas or stay home? This year, Travel

18. Can you name all of Santa's reindeers? Nope, so don't ask

19. Angel on the tree top or a star? I like angels, but we put a bow at the top

20. Open the presents Christmas Eve or Christmas day? 1 Christmas Eve and the rest in the morning. Its tradition

21. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? Listen to "12 pains of Christmas" That's why I like it.

22. Favorite ornament theme or color? The personal ones.

23. Favorite for Christmas dinner? Prime rib! Mmmmm [Drool]

24. What do you want for Christmas this year? Got the TV, (Thanks, Mom and Dad) and a kegerator for my new bar.

25. What is your favorite Christmas memory? Snowball fight with my Bro and my Dad in Lake Tahoe. I sank into 4 feet of snow and got stuck. Also lost my shoes. I was a kid so it was fun.

26. Who is most likely to respond to this first? No clue. You?

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

You read it, your tagged!

Merry Black Friday!

2008-11-29T08:17:00.002-06:00

As some of you know we have been trying to save up some money for a new TV. This was going to be our Christmas present to ourselves this year. Unfortunately like things do, things got in the way.. you know bills, groceries.... stuff. So most of our savings got used up and we had pretty much given up hope that we would be getting our TV this year. Then "Santa" showed up in his Black suit and said "Lets go get a TV!" So we went out and got a new TV. It's not the 50" that I was looking for but it's a lot more than what we originally had. An old 27" heavy table weight. Not that it was a terrible TV it was just old and we have never had a New TV before. As in we are the first owners. Now we do. We got a Panasonic 42" Plasma. Looks and sounds great! Not to mention we got a great deal on it. So soon we will be getting the HD package from or Dish provider. Then 24 night will be at our place for the next season. Guess that's it for now. Thank You "Santa"! We love it!

Happy Turkey Day!

2008-11-27T08:07:00.002-06:00

Just a little note to say Happy Thanksgiving! It's an early morning for us. We got up to walk the dogs and now a small break before breakfast. Then it will be Jess's turn to take over the kitchen for a while. We are having a couple friends over who would otherwise be spending the holiday alone, and who wants to do that?! They will be here around 3 for the aromas of pies and fried turkey. I'll soon have my traditional Bloody Mary to start the morning. In fact, I think I'll do that now and make some breakfast! Happy Thanksgiving!!

Much Better Now

2008-11-25T20:46:00.003-06:00

I don't have any previous posts regarding this matter but I thought I might blog about it anyway. I've been recently.. I say that loosely, having issues with a friend. It wasn't any huge thing to bother me but more like several minor to questionable instances to get me to this point. So tonight was the night I had to have "The Talk". I call it "the talk" because this is the talk that is the turning point of a friendship. You either remain friends or you go your separate ways. This talk only happens once. After that its not worth it. Fortunately, I've only had a couple of these talks and both of them ended well. I've got whats been bothering me off my chest and the same is true for this individual. Turns out there were a couple things I have said in the past that were not taken as intended. Well, kinda.. there was one thing that was said that I meant to say and I meant for it to be kinda mean at the time. I did however feel bad for saying it after I said it, but I was unable to apologize for it. I was able to do that tonight. So all is better now. For anyone else reading this who is wondering if there is anything I've been hanging on to, rest assured all is good now. With that I bid you all good night.

Officer "Ass"

2008-11-11T18:33:00.003-06:00

Let me start by saying most of the time I don't have any problems with Law Enforcement. However today I was following the slowest damn police car ever. I'm calling him "Officer Hole". The scene goes like this. I just got out of work for lunch and hap pend to pull out behind a police officer. No big deal. I'd rather be behind him than in front of him as a general rule of thumb. Here is the thing though. He was intentionally screwing with the other drivers on the road. Driving 10 MPH BELOW the speed limit and hitting his brakes every few minutes just to make sure he didn't end up going the speed limit. Of course nobody wants to pass him because it obvious hes looking for some brave soul to fuck with. On the plus side, I was still on the clock while on the road for most of my drive home. So he didn't cost me any of my lunch break. He was just a dick! Anyway, Here's to you Officer Hole! Welcome to what I call DMV's Best!

Feeling the pinch.

2008-10-28T11:51:00.002-05:00

Work has been busy for a while so I haven't been feeling the economic pinch at work. Now the big job we were working on is just about done. That coupled with the fact I thought I had a new job, I'm now feeling the pinch. The new job fell through and work is getting slower. Couple reasons for work being slow. 1) As I said I thought I had a new job and they stopped looking extra hard for work to keep me busy. 2) The economy as a whole. and 3) Its getting near the holiday season and nobody wants to mess up their house with a remodel over the holidays. About the only thing now to keep me busy is new construction. Lucky for me there is a lot of it going on around here, but then again; We need to win the bids to get the work. So for now, I'm down to 3 or 4 days a week of work. At first it will be kinda nice. Sleep in watch some TV. Enjoy some time with the dogs.. maybe even get some training in. Guess we'll see how it goes. If I get too much free time with this I might have to go back to playing Warcraft for a little while. That or find a new or part time gig somewhere. That would probably be the wiser of the choices but I'm not sure I want a night job. It would have to be nights because I never know week to week how many days they need me. My schedule doesn't work like that. Well guess that's it for now. Tune in next time for another exciting post by...

"Z"

And Another Thing!!!

2008-10-21T17:54:00.002-05:00

WARNING: This post has some venting.

OK, Lets start with work. Normally I like my job. (for the most part) Today on the other hand not so much. I am the only employee and have 2 bosses. Lets call them Bill and Joe. Joe is on vacation this week and Bill and I are working on finishing up a fairly good size job. As I said normally my job is fine, but there are some things that really chap my ass. Apparently Bill and Joe had 2 different cutting lists they were going by when they had me cut out parts for this job. Nothing fit the way it should. There are 13 different rooms on this job. Each have similar parts, some with close measurements. I was given the task today of trying to figure out where everything went. I hate that. Its not that hard to label which room each part goes to. I know for a fact some rooms have the wrong parts but they still fit. They just don't fit the way I would want them to fit if I were the boss. Not only was I left to figure out the bullshit. Bill left me out there on the job to do it myself. He helped with a few things in the morning and then left shortly before lunch for a meeting or something. Then came back shortly after lunch and that's fine. He helped out some more and then got tired of being out there so he left and went back to the shop. Leaving me out there again to finish things up. Oh, and we're going back out again tomorrow morning after I finish cutting out shelves. Lucky for me I made the shelf list so I know what I'm doing and where everything goes. If something doesn't fit, It's my own damn fault and I'm cool with that. So there! (Rant 1 Done!)

Next up, The Jerk and the School Bus.
First of all I have to say there are levels of assholeness. Yes that's a word I just looked it up. Anyway, you have your typical asshole driver. Then you have this guy. On my way home today I was behind a school bus. It stopped and let some kids out and then took off again. The driver of the school bus immidietly turned on his blinker so he could change lanes to make the next left. Then the driver next to me didn't want the school bus in front of him so he sped up to get next to the bus. Nope not in front of it so he could pull in behind him. Next to it, so he couldn't change lanes. Now I have to ask. What the Hell dose that prove?! You wanna be a dick with other drivers on the road fine. But to be like that to a school bus? Here's to you Mr. Assholeness (insert finger).

And finally a more gentle note. Gas today was $2.53 a gallon at the QT. Maybe by Friday it will be at that $2.50 mark or less.

Comment

2008-10-15T11:35:00.002-05:00

This is just a comment about a news story I heard last night. I swear I don't know where these people come from. There was a story last night about how there are a bunch of people driving in the HOV lanes (diamond/ car-pool lanes) as single occupants. Seems there have been a lot of complaints from the other drivers on the road abiding by the law. The story was about Highway 75 in particular. They have stepped up patrols and are enforcing the law more now. Then they showed a guy getting stopped for the offence. Not only did he play stupid to the officer but when he was asked why he was in the HOV lane, he responded. "I wasn't paying attention. I was studying for a test." Then proceeded to show the officer his study papers. Officers response was something like Why are you reading while your driving? I hope he got an extra fine for his dumb ass excuse! I bet the whole time he was taking his test he was thinking about the fact he got caught in the HOV lanes and gave the officer a lame excuse. Therefore doing poorly on his exam. I also hope he saw and heard himself on TV being an idiot.

A Question...

2008-10-14T21:36:00.002-05:00

Let me just set the scene a little bit first.
It's about 5:30 pm. Rush hour. It's raining. I'm on a fairly busy road and driving in the left hand lane of a 4 lane road. (That's 2 lanes going on each direction for those who may not know) Now since this is a busy road; it is normal for traffic to slow down, stop and move at the speed limit at any time.

So here is my question. If I were to accidentally hit someone, a pedestrian, "jay-walking", who would be at fault? This almost happend to me today on my drive home. The Only reason I did not hit him is because I was able to swerve into the other side of traffic to avoid him. Fortunately for us both there were not any cars coming at that particular time. There is absolutely no way I could have stopped in time. I would not have killed him or anything because I was only going about 20 or 25 mph and the posted speed is 30. He walked in front of an SUV which I could not see around and then directly into my path without even looking. My opinion is it wouldn't be my fault. A) He was "jay-walking" and B) I couldn't see him til he was directly in front of me. Therefor I say he was an Idiot!

Led Zeppelin Tour?

2008-09-22T11:34:00.002-05:00

Anyone who knows me even a little bit knows that Led Zeppelin is my favorite band. So I tend to keep up with things going on with them. Led Zeppelin disbanded in 1980 after the untimely death of their drummer John Bonham. They recently got back together for a "one off" concert in London last year with John's son Jason on drums. The concert went over better than expected and the fans like myself are all wishing and hoping for a full world tour. Page, Jones and Jason are all for the the tour and Plant is working on a side project with Alison Krauss. Which brings me to this. I just read an article how they plan to tour with or without Plant next year. Now, I don't see how they could do this and call themselves Led Zeppelin. And if they do go on tour without Plant. I think they should call up David Coverdale and call the tour the "Cover Zeppelin" tour. You can read the article here.

Age and Wisdom...

2008-09-16T22:04:00.002-05:00

So we've all heard you get wiser as you get older. With age comes great wisdom. Or so I've heard. I've also heard I'm wise beyond my years. Well, I don't know about all that. Maybe a "wise guy". I wonder who said this to begin with. Its certainly not true. In fact I'm thinking maybe its more the opposite. You get dumber as you get older. This may not be true for everyone, but I'm noticing more and more old farts out there that are or that are acting just plain stupid. I mean come on people it just common sense, isn't it? Riddle me this. If you are driving an 1872 Buick "boat" and 90 years old. And you need to cross traffic on a not so busy road. Where the speed limit is 30 mph. To head the opposite way of traffic... Why would you cut in front of someone that you know is very likely to hit you. Hmm, maybe I have already solved my own riddle. Age 90 + 1872 Buick boat = I wish I was dead. Please hit me! Lucky for us both I was paying attention and nobody was behind me when I slammed on the brakes. She was able to make the turn and live another day. That certainly doesn't say much for the old and wise thing. I'm sure what ever she was in a hurry for could have waited a few more seconds when it would have been safe to enter traffic.

Well, now that my blogging is done for the next.. oh I don't know... month. I'm going to get some sleep. Maybe I'll be a little wiser tomorrow. Ha! I wouldn't count on it!

Update

2008-09-16T21:34:00.002-05:00

I know its been a while since my last post. Its not to say nothing has been going on. Its just that I haven't taken the time to write. Also I don't remember everything that I thought about writing about. That being said I start with what I do know.

Work: Its been really busy at work. We're .... I'm currently working on a huge remodel job full of laminate. For those who don't yet know. I hate laminate. Not only as a product but mostly as something I hate working with. Its not hard, just a pain. It has its places and some of it looks really nice but... OK that's enough about that. So, as I was saying. ... job full of laminate. I've already made about 80 drawers and the base cabinets are all assembled and almost ready to go. Tomorrow I have to finish putting the drawer guides in them and assemble the rest of the uppers. Bosses might do the assembling while I do the drawer guides but we'll see. Then I have to laminate more. Not sure if it will be done in the next 2 weeks or not. Which brings me to the next point.

New? Job: I've also let everyone know of my options in recent posts. The update this goes like this. I told the other cabinet place that I have something else I am pursuing at this time but if it falls through I will be in touch. They were fine with that. Seems they are always looking for people with my skills. Nice to know.

As for the hotel job. I had my interview last Friday and I think it went pretty well. I interviewed with the owner since my neighbor obviously knows me already. It was more of a way to keep from showing any favoritism. Also so my neighbor could get an outsiders opinion and any thoughts. I plan to know something either way buy the end of the week.

Aside from that; there is not much to tell. There have been a couple DMV's Best situations but only one was blog worthy. Just a short one. On my way back to work from lunch. I saw someone inching out of the gas station as if he was waiting for me to pass before entering traffic. (not that there was any. Closest person behind me was at least 1/2 a mile back) Well, turns out he was trying to hit me or something. He cut right in front of me as soon as I got close enough that I would hit him. I had to quickly swerve into the next lane to avoid him. Then there as today...

Grand Opening!

2008-08-07T11:54:00.003-05:00

Race Track is having their Grand Opening now. I'm guessing it will last through the next week. Defiantly through the weekend. As I was driving by today as I was coming home for lunch it looks like they were giving out free food. Sure its just hot dogs and maybe burgers but free food! At least I think it was free. I haven't been there yet to know for sure. I do know however that the current price on gas is... drum roll please.... $3.53!!! I'll be stopping in tomorrow after work to fill up for next week. I'll know more about the grand opening then. If there is anything to add I'll do so in an update. Til then...

Reflex Test

2008-08-06T11:54:00.003-05:00

Today was my random reflex test I guess. Coming home for lunch today I saw someone in the far right lane with their blinker on to move over. I also saw him move over. Then I saw him moving over again into my lane and if I wasn't paying any attention into my truck. Apparently he didn't care that I was already in that lane. Its a good thing 380 doesn't have a median or I wouldn't be here right now. I'd be filing a police report about how this sob ran into me while crossing 3 lanes of traffic. I had to swerve into the left hand turn lane to avoid getting hit. Which is apparently where this guy was going. Come to think of it there is a median there... this happened just after it. In front of the QT. I don't know why most of my bad driver stories come from gas stations or near them. Has anyone else noticed this strange phenomenon? Oh, by the way. Dip squat who ran me off the road.. He didn't even give a "sorry" wave or anything. just ignored the fact he almost caused an accident. I know he saw me. I saw him looking back at me in my rear view mirror. I was nice, I didn't honk or give him a friendly finger gesture or anything. I just looked for the acknowledgement that he was in the wrong. Nope, he didn't give a rats ass about it. ... Dip Squat!!

A fork in the road...

2008-07-22T17:33:00.004-05:00

I've suddenly found myself in a position where I have 2 possible opportunities in front of me. So I need to do some serious thinking on which path I am going to choose. First let me say I am working towards owning my own business again. Not cabinets or anything to do with woodworking this time. Nope, I want to run my own Hot Dog cart. Second, I've been trying to find a way out of the cabinet business. This brings me to my first option.

I was recently offered a possible position as the Maintenance Manager at a new hotel. This opportunity offers many new doors for future opportunities. I would learn a lot of new things. The money to start is not a whole lot better than what I make now but it could and very likely would be more in the near future. It is also close to home. About a 15 minute commute. The down side to this is that I would be working for a good friend and neighbor. While I don't see this being an issue, it is certainly something to think very seriously about. It also may put a hold on my self employment gig.

Then there is the newest possibility. One of my other neighbors hooked me up with a new cabinet position. I would be building cabinetry for airplanes. Not sure if its just personal or if I would be doing anything on commercial airplanes as well. The pay for this job is almost double what I make now. However the pay is based on per diem. Basically (from what I understand) this means I have to work at least 50 miles from my home to qualify. I don't think I do. So I'm not sure how the pay works out after that. I returned their call today to fill them in on my position. When I first spoke to them I let them know it would be at least a month before I could possibly work for them because I have things I need to finish up at work. They completely understand and respect that. All they asked is that I keep in touch and let them know of any changes. Today when I was talking to them, I was told they really like my experience and that they would love to have me. They also informed me that its a well maintained, clean shop with a/c. Big plus right there.

So this is my fork in the road. Like I stated above. I do want out of the cabinet business. But, this is a lot of money which would help out tremendously with paying down our debt and socking away for savings as well as my hot dog cart. Its not that I dislike the cabinet business. I'm just finding that I'm on the road to get burned out on it. I want to enjoy doing it as a hobby when its all said and done. As for the other job. I think I would enjoy it. It would open so many new possibilities for the future that maybe I would have something else other than cabinets to fall back on if something doesn't work out. Of course neither of these are guaranteed. Also, in the end I just want my own business.

I'm sure I forgot some stuff but this is the jist of whats going on in my world. Any thoughts and advice are welcome. Thanks!

Ice

2008-07-18T19:52:00.002-05:00

Today I met with a couple friends to watch the new Batman movie. At first I wasn't at all interested in seeing this one in the theater. Then it began growing on me with all the advertisements and stuff. Kinda surprising really. I don't normally give in to adds. Anyway, We went to see this movie and I have to say I liked it a whole lot more than I thought I would. I still think Michael Keaton made the best Batman. I liked it. It wasn't the "remake" I thought it was going to be. That is my review. Take it or leave it.

Of course going to the movies is not complete without a few things to go with it. So I had some popcorn a hot dog and a drink, with no ice. I don't get ice at the theater because at $5 for a soda or what ever the outrageous price is. I want the soda not the ice. (side story on this later)

So I told you that so I could share the biggest part of the story. One of our biggest pet peeves. If you said cell phones.. You are Correct! Yep! Oh by the way. I didn't get to sit with my friends because the theater was pretty full. I ended up sitting on the end of the row next to some kids. They were fine. However, a row in front of me and to the left some idiot had to text through the whole thing. I thought very seriously about throwing a piece of popcorn or 2 or 10.. but I didn't. I then realized why I should have gotten Ice with my soda. It would have been much better to throw at them. If I would have been sitting with my friends popcorn likely would have been thrown but not by me. I'm too nice. I tend to just think about doing it until I get blood boiling pissed.

The side story for anyone interested. When I got my soda without ice my friend informed me that there are some people that don't have ice. Also that I am weird. Only in a joking manner and it was taken as such. I am also always slow on the draw for a good or even decent come back. So now I have to say it here. What I should have said. "And there are some who have too much Ice."

Well, that's it. Again I thought the movie was good and I do recommend seeing it if you haven't already.

Random Questions, 29 to be exact.

2008-07-16T18:42:00.007-05:00

This is the one I found to send out to everyone else. Just because.

1. When showering, do you start the water and then get in, or get in then start the water? I start it and let it warm up, then I get in.

2. Do you read the labels on your shampoo bottle? Nope. Not much of a reader.

3. Do you moan in the shower like the people on the Herbal Essences commercial? Depends on whats going on in the shower...

4. Have you ever showered with someone of the opposite sex? Yep

5. Have you ever been forced to shower with one of your siblings? Nope, Not that I recall at least.

6. Have you ever brushed your teeth in the shower? Yeah, but I wasn't a fan. I do it at the sink.

7. Have you ever dropped your soap on your foot? Yeah, In fact last night I dropped it and fell outside the shower onto the floor. The dog tried to eat it. Dummy.. I mean Stubby.

8. How old do you look? Don't know.. I guess it depends on if I shave or not. "Hun, how old do I look?" Apparently I look my age.

9. How old do you act? Lets say I act all ages. Mostly younger than I am.

10. What's the last song you sang? Sang along a little bit with "Battle of Evermore" Led Zeppelin, Of course

11. Have you recently become a member of anything? Umm, yeah.. I became a member of "The Street Machine Club" Not sure if its worth it yet. But I got some gas rebate certificates for joining.

12. What are your plans for the weekend? That depends on how much I have healed from my recent injuries. Hopefully yard work on Saturday and Disc golfing on Sunday

13. Do you kiss with your eyes open or closed? Usually closed.

14. Whats the sexiest thing about Condoleeza Rice? Nothing, but that's just me.

15. Does anything on your body itch right now? yeah, some of my injuries.. like the ones on my foot.

16. Who's the sexiest famous woman alive? Good question. This one always changes but I've always liked Christina Ricci. Oh, "Jack's Daughter"... !Elisha Cuthbert. Yep definatly!

17. Who's the sexiest famous man alive? Don't know, but there are some good looking guys out there. I'm not famous.. yet.

18. Does every family have a crazy uncle? Yep, I think so. Now I'm one too. Thanks Bro!

19. Have you ever smuggled something into America? That's hard to do since I've never left the country.

20. Does playing the guitar make a girl/guy more attractive? I don't think so but I used to play so maybe at some point I did think so.

21. Do you live in a city with a good sports team? Yeah, Dallas Stars unless they are playing my home team of the Sharks. Then its kinda a win win for me.

22. Have you ever finished off the popcorn and ate the junk from the bottom of the bag? Yep, if they are even slightly popped I eat em.

23. Have you ever had sex in a tent? Not yet, but hope to do that someday. I'll put it on my list of things to do someday.

24. What about in a boat? Also on the list of things to do someday.

25. Have you ever dated a Goth? Nope, Although it wasn't because I didn't want to.

26. Would you rather receive amazing oral sex or have amazing sex? Both! Whats wrong with that?

27. Can you fix your own car? For the most part. Only because I don't want to pay someone else to do it at $300,000.00 an hour.

28. Would you want to kill George W Bush yourself if you were guaranteed to get away with it? Naa, He's not a very good president but I don't think he deserves death.

29. Should guys wear pink? Doesn't matter to me. Certainly looks best on women when worn "the right way". hehe, I like pink...

Your turn. You've been tagged

OK, I'll play

2008-07-14T21:31:00.006-05:00

MEME?! Me?! I must be joking! Oh, Well... here goes...

What was I doing 10 years ago?
Ten years ago about this time I was working at Costco. I was also trying to figure out how I was going to find a way to move out of California to spend some quaily time with Jess.

Five snacks I enjoy:
1. Reese's(pieces and cups)
2. Cookies
3. Sunflower seeds
4. Chips
5. Salami

Five Things on My To-Do list today:
1. Get up.
2. Go to work.
3. Work on building a bunch of drawers.
4. Come home from work.
5. Relax.

Five Things I would do if I were a billionaire:
1. Pay off the debt of family and close friends.
2. Buy some land in a few different places.
3. Build my dream house in Lake Tahoe.
4. Invest
5. Start my own business of some kind. Maybe my storefront for showing off my woodworking creations. Buy them or not. Doesn't matter I'm a billionaire!

Five jobs I have had:
1. Door to Door sales as a teen.
2. Security
3. Costco, Stocker
4. Bowling Alley Mechanic
5. Cabinet Maker

Five of my bad habits:
1. Keeping an "unorganized" desk space
2. Not using the " ' " in words like Dont, Doesnt... bla bla bla (been working on that one though)
3. Not telling my wife what time I plan to be home. (because I never know the answer to that question myself.)
4. Not calling my wife while I'm out to "check in". (Also getting better with this one too)
5. Washing my truck once every couple years.

Five places I have lived:
1. Campbell, CA
2. San Jose, CA
3. Gardnerville, NV
4. State College, PA
5. Denton, TX

Five people I would like to get to know better (yes, this means you are tagged!):
1. You
2. ...You
3. ..You
4. .....You
5. And.. You

Five Random Things:
1. Why am I doing this?
2. I wonder if we will get some rain tonight.
3. I hope I stop hurting soon. I'd like to get back outside and get some things done. Like the yard and I'd like to get back onto the disc golf course with my friends.
4. Maybe I can get to bed at a decent time tonight and maybe eve get some sleep.
5. I also wonder if the 24 "special" rumor is true. I heard there is supposed to be something in October as a catch up before the new season starts in January.

Now I'll have to find one to send to everyone.

V.I.P.

2008-07-11T12:35:00.003-05:00

Yeah, you must be a V.I.P. if your going to arrive to lunch in a personal helicopter. Yep, you read right.. not a fancy car or a limo.. a helicopter! So here's what I saw. Driving home for lunch like I normally do. I saw in the distance a low flying helicopter. At first I thought it was Care Flight. At which point I also thought "Crap, I hope they are not landing in the middle of the road before I get to my turn to get home." As I got closer I realized it wasn't Care Flight. It was instead a personal helicopter and they landed at the Prairie House for lunch. How cool would that be to just hop into your own helicopter and go out for lunch. Now, I wonder where these people live. Did they fly down here from Oklahoma just for some Prairie House Yum Yum? Or do they live further or closer? If its closer.. why spend the money of fuel for the helicopter? I'm sure that stuff is much more expensive than the current $3.88 regular at the Racetrack/ QT. Maybe they just wanted to take it for a "spin". Ha, I made a small funny.... "shut up, I thought it was funny and that's what counts." Anyway, I just have to say. That's what I call arriving in style!

Man -VS- Pavement...

2008-07-05T15:31:00.003-05:00

That was me last night. As the story goes, I challenged my neighbor to a foot race down the street. We set off on our race and I was winning (to the surprise of everyone) Then the pavement said "Hey lets get to know each other a little better". Things didn't go so well for me in this little meeting. My big toe on my right foot is missing quite a large bit of flesh. My left knee and shoulder are mainly scraped up. I apparently got a little bonk on the head. (explains the headache) And lastly, my left hand (main point of impact) is swollen and badly bruised. I just got back from the Care Now place where they are most helpful. So I know nothing is broken. It just hurts like hell. So yeah, this was the stupid thing I did on the forth. And yes, there was drinking involved. A word to the wise, When challenging a friend to a race. Do in the daylight and sober. Things will likely work out better for everyone that way. The score as of now: Man- 0 Pavement- 1

As for the conclusion of the race. I predict being the winner in the rematch. Maybe we'll have our rematch on the grass instead of the pavement.

Hope you had a good laugh at my stupid moment. I too kinda laugh about it now but it still hurts. I just took my pain killer drugs and now I'm off for nap time. Be careful out there. Being on the "gimp" list sucks.

Another R/C Update:

2008-07-01T18:32:00.003-05:00

I called Traxxas today while on my lunch break to check in on my ESC. I was told that they just got a new shipment of replacements in yesterday so I should be getting my new one in the next couple days. That is if they have enough to go around and my name is one this first list to get one from this shipment. Now this tells me that they get these things back all the time. And that there are so many that they cant even keep up with them. This doesn't sound like good news to me. As I've said before these things cost a lot of money and when they stop replacing it free.. I'm going to have problems. However there is a good side to this. I read through my warranty information again and I can send parts like this back under the "Extended warranty Service" part of the agreement and they will repair or replace it for no more than $45. This is even covered if I misuse and abuse the part. That's nice to know. So that's it, I hope to have my part for the 4th of July weekend. As always, I'll keep you posted of any new developments.

Entertainment Center

2008-07-01T18:02:00.004-05:00

This is a picture of the most recent project I did at work. (aside from the boring everyday cabinets) This entertainment center was quite fun to build. To the right you will see large openings. The bottom will house a pull out drawer kind of thing that holds 4 folding TV tray tables. There will be a door front on it and above that is another door with a couple adjustable shelves. Not sure the size of the TV going in it but its pretty big as you can see from the opening. This is the only picture I have right now. If I can snap another one before it goes out I will. Its stained now and it looks pretty good but you wouldn't find the color in my house. Its looks a bit pink to me. Maybe its part of my color blindness but that's what I see. I'll update if I can get another good picture.

In case anyone is wondering about what kind of wood was used. Its Hickory/ Pecan. Don't know the color on the stain. I'll have to ask my boss. Til next time...

Victory is Mine!!

2008-07-01T17:38:00.002-05:00

HA HA!! So here is the story. On my way home today I saw someone in a real big hurry to cut me off. So I quickly surveyed the situation and hit the gas to block him in behind me. Not enough to make it obvious that I was doing so. Nope, just enough to leave the gap between myself and the car next to me to small for him to get in front of me... though he tried. Access Denied!! He then got stuck behind an 18 wheeler shortly after he made his way around the obstacle I stuck him with. Needless to say it made me feel good. Yeah, I can be a dick too! He wasn't stuck for too long. As soon as he got out he was back to weaving through traffic again. Apparently the speed limit sign I've been reading for so long is wrong. I guess when they made these particular sings they put the first number in upside down. The real speed limit is 90, not 60. Sorry I slowed you down Sir, I didn't know. With myself doing between 65 and 70, and this guy doing 90... He didn't get to far too fast. I caught up to him a couple lights ahead of me. Oh, and then I passed him. Ouch!

Since I'm blogging about these famous drivers I'd might as well tell about another one. This one happened on my way back to work. I was driving along in my automobile... and someone decided the person in front of him was too slow. He then cut me off without even looking to see if it was clear. I had to swerve to avoid getting hit. Then he cut the other guy off. And got stuck at a red light after all of that hard work. Then like a bat out of hell hit the gas and had to be doing at least 45 or 50 in a speed trap 30. Nope, he didn't get caught. They took the day off from this speed trap today. It was quite unfortunate from my point of view.

There is another going back to the AM time but I cant tell you about that one... If your lucky you may find it on another blog...

R/C Trouble

2008-06-28T11:51:00.002-05:00

Well, this is what I've been having ever since I got the new fast battery and gears. Since I got all that stuff to make it do what its advertised to do. I've had nothing but problems. Its now 4 Electronic Speed Controls (ESC) later (these are $220 each) and I finally figured out what the problem has been. My gear ratio was too much for the car. I've been burning them up. Now this is not my fault. I read the owners manual and it said I could run this ratio 76/35. I called the support guys where the car is made and they told me the highest ratio I can run is 76/31. I then suggested that they change the manual to reflect that information so other like myself don't have the same issues I've been having.

So I sent the ESC back again for another one. I'm still waiting for my new one to come back. I've already changed my gearing to the 76/31 so I'll be ready to get back on the road when it gets here. I hope this time it will run fine without any more issues. Its been broken more than its been running at this point. I'll keep you posted if anything more happens with it. Til then, have fun.

Oh and No, I haven't been paying for these new ESCs. They have been warrantied.

Yard friends

2008-06-23T10:56:00.012-05:00

I guess we have a healthy yard. We have a lot of yard friends. I've taken several pictures of them but only have a few good ones. We have 2 Green Anole Lizards and yesterday I saw a Dragonfly. Both are quite beneficial to the yard. They munch on the rest of the insects and keep things fairly under control out there. We also have several Butterflies and some frogs but I don't have any pictures of them. We are going to get a "taod house" to put in the flowerbed at some point.

Its nice to sit out in the front yard once the sun goes behind the neighbors house. It is then that we have some good shade and the temperature is somewhat pleasant. Its also quite relaxing. I sometimes sit out there and have a cigar and a couple drinks. In fact that sounds nice, I might just do that now. Hope you all have a good evening.

Sick day

2008-05-28T13:41:00.003-05:00

Well, yesterday I had to come home sick from work. My tummy was upset and I felt like I was going to hurl. So I got home and pretty much went straight to bed. I got some rest but still felt like crap. Never did throw up, though I think I would have felt so much better if I did.

Last night was a weird night. I was extremely restless. I was hot and cold and just couldn't get comfortable. On top of that I think I had a fever. Which brought its own problems. As long as I had my eyes open I was fully aware of my surroundings. With my eyes closed and trying to get some sleep, I was having weird visions and dreams. Where I didn't know who I was or anything. I also felt like I was inside a huge puzzle within myself where I knew the solution but couldn't do it. On top of this, Jess also got sick. So shes about 12 hours behind me. All of this made for a really long and frustrating night.

This morning I had to make the call to not go into work. I was still feeling weak and disoriented. Not a good combination when you work with heavy machinery all day. So I stayed in bed and got a good amount of rest. I started feeling better around noon so I got up and finally had something to eat. So here I am letting Jess get some rest and trying to catch up on my own things.

Driving

2008-05-20T11:58:00.003-05:00

OK, There are many things one should not do while driving. Most of us know what these things are so I'm not going to make a list of these things. However, I do have to comment on the lady that just had to cut in front of me this morning on the way to work. She is (I'm guessing) a TWU student. She was driving one of the Lexus minivan type cars. As usual she cut in front of me for no reason other than just to be in front of me. Now once we got to the light where it became 2 lanes, we happened to be side by side. As I glanced over I couldn't believe what I saw. She was READING!!!

I would really like to know how someone can read and drive at the same time. I would also like to know how and in what universe that is safe to do. Also, why the hell does someone like this have to cut in front of other drivers on the road? Oh, and she was in a hurry so she was reading and speeding. Must have been running late for an exam... but wait.. TWU was the other way from which we were headed. Perhaps she missed her turn due to the fact she was driving too fast and reading.

R/C Update:

2008-05-20T11:42:00.003-05:00

Well, turns out I did break the speed control in the crash. That's the expensive part. It was confirmed when I took it into the hobby shop on Sunday to see if that was the problem. They took the old one out and put a new one in to test it ans it worked like new with the new one. So that's the $220 part. That's the bad news. The good news... so far, is that I might get a new one under warranty. I'll know later this week or early next week if I will be able to get a new one for free. I'm keeping my fingers crossed on this one. Otherwise this will put a hold on my R/C days.

Todays Project

2008-05-17T22:20:00.004-05:00

This past week has been a little bit rough. Its really true, you don't realize how much you use something or miss it til its gone. We have been without a microwave for a week. We don't know what happened to our microwave but for some reason it got hot but food didn't cook. So we had a decision to make. Pay the $75 trip charge and hope that it was under warranty or shell out the $200 for a new one. Since the warranty was only going to cover 1 certain part and we would have to take time off work or go another week without it; We opted to just buy a new one. I just got done installing it. I bitched and moaned about it because I have a headache, had one all day, but its up and done. It was actually quite easy to replace. Pretty much just took the old one down and popped the new one in its place. So I honestly didn't have anything to bitch about, just didn't feel like doing it. Anyway, as I said, its done and we can now eat our leftovers. Good thing too because we went out to dinner with some friends and I have some leftover pizza that is really good.

In other news, We just finished fixing Jess' car last weekend. I played mechanic again. Seems to be becoming a habit. Maybe I'm turning into that grease monkey my dad was trying to make me after all. Now, only if I had paid closer attention to everything he tried to teach me. However, I think I've been doing pretty good. I've called him a few times asking questions and advice. Jess also helps by looking things up on the net.

So last weekend I did a transmission service, changed an ignition coil, an o2 sensor and Jess did the spark plugs, pretty much on her own. We also had to change a wheel baring which turned into a little more. With the tire and brakes off we noticed the axle was busted too. Fortunately I work next door to a mechanic shop so we bought the parts and they installed them for us. A wheel baring is not a DIY job. You need certain tools for that job. Once that was done Jess got an alignment done and that was it. Now her car runs better than it has since she bought it. Oh yeah, she got new tires too. Life is good.

Speed II

2008-05-14T19:35:00.005-05:00

I got my new battery and all the new accessories I needed to go with it. Thats where my part of the stimulus check went. To my new hobby. Now I can reach speeds of 70+ MPH as the box suggested when I bought it. Fun Fun Fun!!

As you can imagine I couldnt wait to get my new gears installed, battery charged and out the door to try it out. Well, I had a problem early on. It was making a weird whining sound. Turns out I didnt tighten my slipper clutch enough. It was, ummm, slipping too much. My car would go but it didnt get up and go as it did before with the little batteries. So after buying new pads for my slipper clutch (I burnt them up having it too loose) I got it figured out and properly adjusted. Sure enough now I can ride wheelies down the street. I still dont know how much run time I have with the new battery since I did a lot of trial and error testing with the clutch.

Once I ran the battery down. I decided to charge it so I could run it the next day for a fully charged run time test. I also wanted to take advantage of the Mostly empty street when I got home. Well, this turned into disaster. I ran a couple mid speed passes up and down the street and then on my speed run... I crashed it into the only parked car on the street. My right rear wheel met up with the inside drivers rear wheel of my neighbors truck and Whamo! That marked the end of my run time test. It was an ugly sight but fortunately the parts for these cars are cheap. I only broke 2 parts. One costs $10 the other costs $3. Unfortunately though, one of the parts is on back order so a few weeks. My neighbor drives by a hobby shop to and from work so he dropped in to get one of the parts for me. (Thanks Man!)

Today, I got a call from the hobby shop and he gave me some good news. He found the part I need. Its not the same brand but its compatible and it will be here Friday. It costs a little more $8 and its more durable. (for the next time I have a accident) So once I have it running again. I plan to get that run time test done.

The long term goal. I'm going to rebuild the entire thing out of upgraded aluminum parts. Starting with the chassis and working my way up. It will be a slow process but it will be fun. I've seen some pictures of what it can look like and its an awesome sight indeed. For now I'm stuck in the short term getting it fixed after the accident.

GoodBye WoW, Hello R/C World!!!

BTW- You didnt think a broken piece was going to stop me from running my car did you? Nope, I re-glued it back together and put a screw through it to get it back on the road til the new part comes in. What do you expect from a creative mind? Sometimes you just have to ask yourself.. "Self what would a RedNeck do?"

"Z"

Speed

2008-04-10T10:16:00.003-05:00

Yep, I now have to really save up to get the battery I want for my car. I was slightly wrong about how expensive the battery is. The price in my previous post was around $150 for a 4000mah. I now found the 8000mah which is $230. That of course is the one I want. href="http://www.maxamps.com/Lipo-8000-111-Pack.htm"> The reviews for this battery are great! 70+ MPH and over an hour of run time. The batteries I have now only give me 15 minutes or so each. If I didnt need a shed I think I'd be getting one of these batteries with my stimulus check. Oh well, still have to keep the priorities straight.

Rustler + Update

2008-04-05T18:06:00.004-05:00

New Toy!! I have been wanting a really fast gas powered RC car since I was a little kid. Now, I got one.. well kinda. Its not gas powered. The guys at the hobby shop kinda talked me out of it. There are new Electric cars now that are faster and cheaper as far as the up front cost. Also less complicated to run, though reading through the instruction book this thing is pretty complicated too. The thing about these electric ones is that its all about the battery. For now the battery I have will only make my car go about 40mph. The $150.00 battery will take it to 70+ mph. I saw what fast looks like while at the hobby shop. He didnt even go top speed with the expensive battery and it was flippin fast! So I decided I'd better start with the smaller battery for now. It was much cheaper too, (over $100 cheaper) so I got 2. One to charge and one to run. Soon I will be going out for my first run and I'll have to post an update after that. Well, my battery just beeped at me so I'm ready to go play. I'll be back later to update....

Update:
Man this is a ton of fun! I ran it up and down the street and only flipped it once on the grass. Damage done so far: Zero! I did hit a mailbox but thats what this thing is made for.. going fast and built to be abused.. to an extent. Today (after disc golf with my friends) I'll be taking it out to the dirt roads in the neighborhood to race it out there and do some donuts. I'll have both of my batteries charged and ready to go. One of the neighbors has one too so maybe I"ll see if hes home and wants to go with me. Anyway, I'm off to go golfin'.

"Z"

The slow ride

2008-03-26T17:46:00.004-05:00

A few things happened today on the way home.

DMV's Best:

Yep, I found a couple of them today... The first one was just after work. Pulled out into traffic and drove about a 1/4 mile to the light with no problems everyone was moving fine. Then all of a sudden out of nowhere I get cut off! And oh Yes, The lady who did it was kind enough to give me a wave, as though that makes it all better. Was there a reason for her cutting me off? Nope, she didnt need to turn at the next turn. She just Had to be in "my" lane Exactly at that point in time. Made sense to her I guess.

Then I had the pleasure of being cut off again at the bank. This was apparently not prepared for what she needed to do there. She first pulled into one of the teller lanes. Then as I was pulling into the ATM lane, She at that point in time decided she needed to be in the ATM lane. So she backed up, cut me off, pulled up next to the ATM and proceeded to grab an envelope. Great! You see, the problem I have here is this. I go to the bank prepared for what I have to do. I have my deposit filled out and ready to go and my card is in my visor for easy access. I dont make people wait for me to do my thing. If for some reason I am not ready. I grab an envelope and pull around so that the person behind me can get their stuff done. Anyway, she finally finished making her deposit and left, or so I thought. As I finished up making my deposit I noticed she was back in the teller line. Now, I'm no expert on banks but I think what ever she needed to do at the ATM could have been done at the teller in the first place. By the way, There are 3 teller lanes and all 3 were open with nobody waiting. So, what was the point of cutting me off?

Next there was the old man and his wife doing 50mph in the "fast" lane during rush hour. Speed limit is 60mph by the way. Not only was he doing that but he was also hitting his breaks for No Reason! None, Nada, Zilch! I couldnt pass him because everyone else was in the other lane passing us by or driving right beside me so I couldnt get by. And there was someone on my ass at the same time. So by the time I was able to get past him I was pretty much home. So that was my drive home. Exciting.

And here is one on me. Yesterday due to road construction on my normal route. I had to take a detour. I've taken this road a few times in the past so I dont really have any excuse, but I was tired and not paying close attention. I almost ended up going the wrong way. (as in the wrong side of the road) You see, this road is your standard 2 way street until you get to the light. At that point there is all of a sudden an island divider. No clear signage and the lines on the road are old and faded. So I hit the brakes and turned real quick to avoid hitting the island. So thats it. My very own "Dee De Dee" moment.

98%

2008-03-16T11:39:00.003-05:00

Thats what I'm calling it, 98%. Some of you know I've been working on a major home improvement project for the last few weeks. Its now done enough for pictures and moving in. I say its at 98% because I still have to add the crown moulding in both rooms and the light fixture in the office. We also have to do a little touch up painting. Other than that its time to move in and enjoy it. Just a quick recap on what was done: We ripped out the carpet and put down a nice heavy duty vinyl floor. (one that will hold up to the 3 dogs) Its nice, looks like wood. I also converted the Office from just an office to an Office/ Guest bedroom. The guest bedroom you ask? Well that is now our gym. The BowFlex and the treadmill now have a real home. Whoo Hoo!! Still need a few things in there too but that will take a little more time. Nothing major, just a tv and a mirror. Anyway, now off to the pictures. Enjoy!
"Z"

Snow!

2008-03-16T11:36:00.003-05:00

Just a quick post to show a picture of the Front yard project covered in snow. This was taken the next day so some of the snow had already melted. Just thought I'd share.

Front Yard Project

2008-02-23T12:51:00.005-06:00

I know, its been a while since the post where I said I was going to take and load pictures. Well, I did take the pictures but never got around to posting them here. Well, today is the day! These are the 2 best pictures of the project. If you want to picture the before image... just imagine nothing there but the tree. Thanks again to all who helped with this project.

"Z"

An Update:

2008-02-20T17:38:00.002-06:00

Re: Said neighbor who I have been complaining about.

Well, its been a couple weeks since we sold Jake's truck. So far all has been good aside from the day we sold it. Of course he may have gotten the hint when he asked why I sold it. I told him I got tired of looking at it in front of my house. I have really enjoyed not having any cars in front of my house for the last couple weeks. Don't have much to say at this time. Just thought I'd update with a little good news.

Just as I thought...

2008-02-09T12:00:00.000-06:00

I knew it. I wanted to give some credit and not worry about it but there it is plain as day. There is a car in front of our house. We just got back from selling Jake's truck so we wouldn't have anymore cars in front of our house. What do I see when we turn on to our street.. a damn car... In Front of Our House! Now, I don't think it is our neighbors car. (anymore) I think he sold it to his cousin or something and he is the one parked in front of our house now. Which by the way was also here when we left, but it was parked in front of the neighbors house. Yeah, I know this all sounds familiar. Its the same story and complaint I've had for some time now. I'm only looking for some common courtesy. Why should I not have a luxury of having no cars in front of my house when it is not my car or someone visiting me? When you visit someone do you not park in front of their house? As long as there is room. Seems to me that's the first place to look for a parking spot. Someday we'll have a nice piece of land somewhere and nobody will be able to park in front of my house. For now, this will remain one of my biggest pet peeves.

Still hurts

2008-02-04T12:31:00.000-06:00

Yep, My back still hurts. I have to say that working in a cabinet shop with a sore back is not fun at all! I would stay home and get some rest if I could, but I am the main workforce at the shop. Its just 3 of us there. The co-owners and myself. I do most of the work and they sit in the office and figure out more stuff for me to work on. Sometimes on big jobs like the one we're doing now; (a bank) They come out to do some of the work too. Although, they do most of the install work which is fine by me. That's the part I don't like too much. Unless its one of my own side jobs. Anyway, just sitting here eating my lunch. (left over pizza) Thought I'd let everyone know that work sucks today because of my back issue. Aside from that its ok.

"Z"

Spring?

2008-02-03T15:30:00.000-06:00

Sure feels like it out there. Unfortunately I have spent most of my weekend in pain. Both days my back has been killing me. The dogs have been snuggling a bit tight against my back and making me sleep in a corkscrew position. I had such great plans this weekend too. Wanted to do some things around the house like go into the attic and figure out what I need to make some storage space up there. Wanted to and did, look at flooring for the office; so we can get an idea of how much its going to cost us. Still need to figure out some plans for the new furniture that will be made for the office. Thought about maybe going disc golfing but then canceled that idea after remembering Scott said there was a tourney this weekend and also because I got a nice $0.42 a game coupon for bowling. That didn't work out due to my back issue. We just got done cleaning up the house a little bit (dusting and vacuuming). Then I went outside to see how the neighbors were doing with shingle repairs after our wind storm last week. It was then that I really realized how nice it really is outside.. and what am I doing, writing here since the only thing I can do is sit and rest my back. Someone also fired up their grill so now I want to fire up mine too. I can, I have a pork loin in there that I can toss on the grill... I'm hoping the Motrin kicks in soon so I can be somewhat mobile again. And then....

There is the Super Bowl. For those who know me. Its no surprise that I could give a rats ass about the Super Bowl and football to begin with, but this year is different for some reason. I actually have an interest in the game this year. Maybe its because I happened to be visiting a friends house and happened to see one of the playoff games. It was a really good close game and it kept me interested. That same interest is what has made me want to see this Super Bowl game. If anyone is interested in who I'm rooting for, I'm going with New York. Just because. No real reason. So I'll be at a friends house tonight watching the game and having a few drinks.

On another note. I know this is my first post of the new year. I had planned on other posts about other things but I never quite got to them. I thought about doing a full update kind of post but that would be too long and I wouldn't get everything in it anyway. So my update is this. Things happened and they passed. This is now and tomorrow is another day. Til next time.

"Z"

Vacation...

2007-12-23T13:49:00.000-06:00

Yep, Vacation! It officially starts for us today. We have all of our errands done, Christmas shopping is done and the house is clean. The plan tonight is going out to our semi- annual Keg Birthday dinner. We go twice a year once for LJ's birthday in February and for mine in December. (to those who did not know it was my birthday, Don't Worry about it. I didn't tell anyone) So now all that's left is to finish fine tuning the New Years party plans. Oh, and we have to hand out our neighbor gifts too. The main thing in the way of us starting our vacation was cleaning the house and that I'm happy to say just got done. I have to say I do love the way the bar looks when its had a super deep cleaning. It sparkles and makes me very thirsty.. I hear it calling out to me. That will have to wait til we get home from dinner.

For anyone interested in more information about The Keg. You can check it out here. http://en.kegsteakhouse.com/

Last day...

2007-12-21T12:28:00.000-06:00

Well, this is my last day of work for this year. Other than a small side job to fix someone entertainment center... for their huge wide screen plasma television. (I want one! Where's mine?) So, I plan on doing lots of relaxing and if the weather is nice for at least a couple days, Maybe I'll go play in the garage. I've got a couple things I want to work on. First things first though. Have to clean the house this weekend. We also have to fine tune the New Years party we are gearing up for. We've got the basic idea of what we want to do but there is still much planning to get done. Invites are out so at least that part is done. For now its just about time for me to head back to work. Til next time...

Mechanic?

2007-12-16T11:23:00.000-06:00

(short version)
Yeah, I played mechanic this weekend on my truck. My alternator died on me and I had to replace it. Took all day but I got it fixed. So here is the whole story...

(long version)
On my way to work Thursday morning I noticed my battery light came on. Seems my voltage was a bit low. I didn't know why but I had an idea what might be wrong. It was sitting at around 11 volts all day. I got to work, came home for lunch and went back to work all without problems. After work I went to Auto zone to get my battery and my alternator checked. I didn't think it was my battery since it is fairly new. Less than 2 years old. Yep, it was my alternator. Being Thursday I couldn't afford to get it right then so I told them I'd have to come back and get it after I got paid. I figured my battery was fine all day so I thought I could make it home and take Navy Jake's truck to work the next day. Well turns out I was just lucky all day to get all that stuff done. Once I left Auto zone my battery died really fast. I made it about 2 miles up the road before it completely died. And it was weird. It was like the movies where the aliens come down to abduct you. You know the scene, the radio starts changing stations on its own, the lights flicker and go dim, the gages fall and everything just goes dark. Well, aside from the radio changing stations and the aliens coming to get me. That's what it was like. So there I was on the phone with LJ the whole time and stranded on the side of the road. It was cold and dark. So now I had to figure out how to get my truck home. The idea was get a jump from LJ and get my battery charged just enough to get me home. Tried it twice. The first time failed because there was too much traffic to get going fast enough. The second time I made it about a mile to the Denton bowling ally where I used to work. So I left it there. I had to figure out a new plan. I took LJ's car to work on Friday. (she worked from home) I had a plan of action that I knew would work. The first thing was to take the battery out of my truck and take it auto zone because they do free battery charging. Then I bought the alternator, new battery cables and a new serpentine belt. Then I went to grab something for lunch and went back to work. (this was all during my lunch break) After work I picked up my battery, deposited my check and came home to get LJ and head back to get my truck. This was the first kink in my plan. She was on call this week and had just got called into a "war room" meeting. She would have to explain what that means. Basically it means something serious broke and they need to fix it whatever the cost. Also means "Weekend? What weekend?" So I called a couple friends one was out of town and the other was able to give me a ride. Plan is back on track. Got my battery back in my truck and got it home without any problems. I got the garage all set up and drove it onto some ramps, pop the hood and got to looking at what I needed to do to get this done. This is what took forever.. See, I'm not a mechanic. My father is a master mechanic, so I called him and he tried to talk me through it. I've done this kind of repair before on a couple other cars, but they were older and easy. Not this time apparently. I couldn't find how to get the belt off or how I was going to get to the bolts to remove the thing. New plan, Went back to Auto zone Saturday morning to buy the repair book for my truck. I was thinking it was going to spell it out for me step by step, but no, all it did was tell me what I already knew. So i got frustrated and asked LJ (the reader) to see if she could figure out what I was missing. I couldn't find the things I needed to find through the different chapters. While she did that for me I took a much needed nap to get rid of my bad attitude and my head ache. Trust me it was better this way, for all of us. When I got up LJ told me what I had to look for and I went out to see if I could find it. I did. I got the belt off but there was still the problem of how to get the alternator out. After a couple hours of trying to figure out what to take off to get to it and make room to get it out, I figured out there wasn't much I could take off. The AC was the main thing in the way and I couldn't move that. I ended up putting together about 4 feet of extensions with a swivel attachment to get the top bolt out. LJ helped guide the socket and it worked. the other bolt was much easier, LJ got that one. (She was excited to be playing mechanic) So we finally got the old one off and I wanted to change the cables too but they didn't fit so I said screw it and we put the new alternator on and the new belt and called it a night. It only took about 10 minutes to get the new stuff on but it took about 6 hours to figure out how to get the old ones off. Once we got it back together I started it up and it worked. Batter light was off and my battery reading shot back up to just past 14 volts where it should be. The only thing wrong at this point was my radio wasn't working. That was easily fixed by pushing the reset button. Then to cap the night off we went to sonic for dinner and then came back home to watch a move. We watched the "Borne Ultimatum". We enjoyed it. So that's the long story of my rare moment as mechanic. Thanks again to LJ for all her help. I almost gave up and took it to a real mechanic. This whole thing reminded me of why I'm a woodworker and not a mechanic. Sorry dad.

Parking...

2007-12-15T11:06:00.000-06:00

Ok, this has been bothering me for a long time. I have a pet peeve of people parking in front of my house when they are not visiting at my house. Its not that I don't like my neighbor. I just don't like him parking in front of my house. I don't like Navy Jake's truck in front of my house either. (which will soon be gone) I just like it to be open. Its the only view we have at this house and why should we have to look out our front window and see vehicles in front of our house? Maybe I'm just an ass for thinking this way. I just don't think its right. On top of that where are my guests supposed to park when they come over? I guess my belief on this subject is, parking in front of someones house should be guest parking unless you yourself are parking there. Sounds like common sense to me, but then again, that's just me.

Gas Stations...

2007-12-10T20:21:00.000-06:00

Yep, here's another one. Seems gas stations and parking lots are the best places to find idiot drivers. I know they are everywhere and sometimes we ourselves blend in with them but come on people lets use some "Common Sense"! Why is it you feel you have to have the pump that I'm in line for.. by cutting in front of me to get it. Did you not see me waiting there? Maybe I was just sitting there with and empty tank for no reason? And excuse me lady who left her can at the pump to go inside to buy something... Why cant you pump your gas and pull into a parking spot so others can fill up their vehicles? Opps, yeah, sorry I didn't think anyone else needed any. I don't know if there is a web page with proper gas station etiquette but there should be. By the way, there is a law that says you cant leave your keys in the car at the pump. Did you know that, shopper lady? All I ask is that we all use a little common sense and think about others around you once in a while. A little politeness can go a long way.

On another note. Today was the 10th of December. Led Zeppelin history has been written without me once again. Tonight was the concert in London for which I did not win the chance to buy tickets. So instead I got out one of my Led Zeppelin DVD's and watched that. I was pretending to be part of the concert. I admit I was a little grumpy when I got home. Not because I wasn't at the show, but it didn't help. Fortunately, I guess its good I don't personally know anyone who got the chance to go either. I'd be very jealous, happy for them, but, yeah.. jealous. I guess tomorrow I will hear more about it. I wonder how many people are going to bitch about it. Yeah, they are much older now. But why is it that we like them in the first place? The music, right? So whats the problem with them being older now? You are older now too! For the fans like myself, The Song Always Remains the Same!

"Z"

Good times...

2007-11-28T12:58:00.000-06:00

Yeah right! Well, today was the day. I had my much needed.. apparently, dentist appointment. Got new fillings and a very deep cleaning of my teeth. The good news.. I'm not feeling anything right now, the bad.. I will be soon and I anticipate it being very.. umm.. whats the word.... painful! I can actually feel a little bit on one of my teeth already. The laughing gas has about worn off, unfortunately. Should have asked for some to go. Oh, I'm also hungry and thirsty. But wait, I cant eat or drink anything because my lower lip is on the floor somewhere. Hope the dogs dont get ahold of it. I do need it back. Reminds of of a funny bit from Bill Cosby. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSw1Qav0L2E&feature=related Anyway, I'm almost done with it. Originally I was supposed to go in 3 separate times. The first was going to be the right cleaning and fillings and then the left, followed by a final basic cleaning and check up to make sure everything looks good. I decided to make it easy on them and my employer and do both the right and left in one trip. I guess its also going to be easier on me as well since I'll go through this pain once instead of twice. So now I'm home and I was supposed to go back to work. I called my boss and filled him in that I'm all drugged up. Kinda light headed and not all with it. Well, even more not with it than normal. So I took the rest of the day off. Its probably not a good thing for me to be running a table saw in this condition. I might chop my lip off by accident. Well, kinda lost my thoughts now so I'll leave it at this. Have a good day. And remember you could have had a fun day like me instead of work.. which would you rather have?

The Bar

2007-11-18T21:49:00.001-06:00

Here is my favorite and most important of my past projects. The Bar, simply put. This has been a huge addition to our house. We enjoy having parties and entertaining so this is quite nice to have. This particular picture is from our wedding party. The bar was fully stocked with beer and liquor as well as decorated for the event.

Future plans include a new kitchen to match the bar. I'm going to be adding more cabinets than we have now with granite counter-tops. There will also be an island and much better lighting. The plan for this project is the spring. Hope it all works out.

Adirondack chairs

2007-11-18T21:30:00.000-06:00

This is one of my past projects. I made them a couple years ago and the set on the left are now sitting in my front yard. They are not my own design. I followed some plans from one of my woodworking books. I plan to make new ones at some point which would be my own design. Maybe when I design my back yard furniture. Unfortunately the chairs on the right were destroyed by my dogs. They decided to make them chew toys.

Little by little I will start posting past projects. Thanks

Coming Soon!

2007-11-14T12:05:00.000-06:00

I've decided to add a new feature to my blog. I'll soon be posting pictures of my recent and past projects. It will take a little time to find them all and get them organized but I'll get them up here for everyone to see. I'm hoping this will also help me take more pictures of the things I do so I can put a portfolio together. They will be found under this label. Til then, Take care!

Chef "Z" Strikes again

2007-11-11T00:13:00.000-06:00

No, not a strike as in baseball. As I stated in the post previous. I had a few friends over who helped in the construction of my flowerbed/ seating area in the front yard (still have to upload a picture). I made a nice dinner and it seemed to be a success. I slow-cooked a roast all day with potatoes, carrots, onions and shallots, and of course some seasoning. In addition to this roast I roasted some potatoes, sauteed some baby bellas and baked some cookies for dessert. According to my guests everything tasted great. We all had some drinks, talked and had a good time. Its always nice to have friends over. I always enjoy everybodys company. In fact, its always a little sad to have it end, But I look forward to the next time we can all get together and do it again. Dont know why, I just love have company. I enjoy the cooking and the prep beforehand. Seeing and hearing the response from the guests on what was done. Doesnt matter if its something I did or what LJ did. Its all just good fun. Its so much fun that sometimes I wonder if maybe I should have been a chef or something like that where I get to entertain people for a living. I think I'd be good at it. I certainly enjoy it. Then again, I enjoy being part of the entertainment. Sure it might take all day in prep to have a gathering the way I do but when the party begins, I am more of a guest than a host. The party or gathering kinda just runs itself. To me, thats what its all about. Having a good time with your friends and just living in the moment. With that, I want to say Thanks to all my friends who make it all worth it. Thanks!

Been a long time

2007-11-09T13:00:00.000-06:00

Yeah, I know its been a while since my last post. As of right now I dont even know what I'm going to post this about.. we'll just see how it goes. My original thought of what this blog was going to be for was basically to bitch about the stupid things I see on a daily basis. Well, turns out that since I made this blog and started posting, I havent seen much stupid stuff.. at least nothing that warranted writing about. I also did a little thinking.. not much.. it hurts. I did however do a little, and I came up with this. I dont want people to read these posts about me bitching about stupid stuff and think that I'm someone who is always bitching about something. Those of you who know me know that this is in fact not true. So I've decided that in addition to bitching about the stupid stuff I see.. I'll try and write some random posts like this. So lets see.. what to write about... Well, I guess I can do a quick run down on my last couple weeks... did all the basic stuff.. get up, go to work, come home, try and relax a bit, have dinner, shower and go to bed. Yup, thats what I do. ok, there are some things I did in the past few weeks that I can tell you about. A few weeks back I made a buffet cabinet for my dinning room. I couldnt put any stain or finish on it at the time since I didnt have the proper tools to finish the job. So the other day we found a little money to purchase a sprayer so I could finish the job. I am currently working on finishing that project. I'm waiting right now for the finish to dry so I can sand and apply another coat. I hope to have this done and in the dinning room tomorrow. Then we can get rid of the boxes we have stacked up in there. Another project I did a couple weeks ago was the front yard. "The wife" and I.. yes, the wife.. sounds funny. But thats who she is, shes not the girlfriend or anything like that anymore. Guess I'll give her a nickname.. even though she didnt give me one.. I'll call her LJ. This name goes way back but thats a story for another time.. maybe. So, LJ and I worked on the front yard project a couple weeks ago. We decided it was time to fix the flowerbed and seating area that we had designed and built once before. Only this time we were going to do it right. Since apparently last time we didnt. We built a raised flowerbed and seating area right behind it. Its made of sand stone retaining wall blocks. I had never done anything like that before so it was kind of an adventure. It was fun but a lot of hard work. I'll have to edit this post later to add a picture. I have a few gripes about this because my neighbors didnt really offer to help. They just ignored us. Its not like I dont help anyone. Anyway, I dont want to get into that again. Guess I could have posted about that a couple weeks ago. Anyway, I did finally get some help. Turned out it was experienced help too, the best kind. I made a call and asked a "real" friend to help. He dropped what he was doing and came on out. Thanks man! One of my neighbors also finally decided to come on over and help.. we'll call him Jay. Thanks to both of you for your help. We could not have finished this job in the amount of time we did without your help. Which brings me to this weekend. I am making dinner for these guys to say thanks again for helping out. Well, guess thats about enough catch up work on my blog thing. So now I'm off to sand and apply another coat on the buffet cabinet. 'Til next time.

Care Flight

2007-10-03T17:30:00.000-05:00

Yes, Care Flight. I know I said I wasn't going to blog about this because I don't know the whole story. Well, I changed my mind when I was cut off on my way home from work today. Where? you might ask, Well, in front of the QT of course. Right there where Care Flight had landed just hours before. So here's my question. What do you do when you are close to empty and you need to fill up; But you are in the far Left hand lane of 3 lanes? Oh, and its 5pm rush hour traffic. Well, this jerk off that cut me off decided it was best he got gas Now. So he cut over from the far left lane to the far right lane (where I was) and into the gas station. Not to mention he cut off other people on his way over. Lucky for all of us he wasn't on his cell phone. Or Care Flight might have been making a second trip to the same location for the second time in one day. So this is my guess. That's pretty close to what probably happened this afternoon when they were there the first time. Ever seen those signs that say not to run red lights because the life you save might be your own? Well, I think the same applies here. Happy driving!

Just for starters...

2007-10-01T21:52:00.000-05:00

The past few days I've been thinking about blogging some of these thoughts I get from time to time. As you see I have jumped onto the band waggon. So here it is my first official post. As I said in my "disclaimer", there have been a couple things to bring me to this point. I'll start with the 2 winners I saw at the gas station on Thursday on my way home from work. This takes place at about 5pm, one of the busiest times for a gas station. Also located on a busy highway.

The First Person: While I was standing there filling up my truck. I noticed several people looking for an unoccupied pump to pull up to. All was normal til the guy pulled in behind me and parked at the pump for a good 5 to 10 minutes before he got out to start pumping his gas. During this time a line started forming behind him. What was he doing during this time you might ask... Well, he was talking on his phone. Not a care in the world about the other people around him. That call must have been very important. You may also be wondering why I was there that long to see all of this. Well, I finished pumping my gas and pulled forward to park my truck. He was still on the phone at this time. I went in to make a purchase and as I left the store he had just started pumping his gas.

The Second Person: I have now taken care of my business with the gas station and want to return home for the night. But first I have to wait in line to re-enter the highway. Yet again I am behind someone on her phone. Shes got her blinker on and going the same direction I am. Lucky me! She looks both ways to make sure everything is safe, Its clear.. but wait. She didn't feel like going. It couldn't have been much clearer. Apparently multi-tasking was not something she was good at. Yet again, the call was very important. Now she has to wait for a better opening. So there she sits and the line gets longer. There is another opening and shes still sitting. I'm about to honk (which is not something I normally do) and she takes off. Not missing a beat, I also take advantage of the opening in traffic. At this point I'm happy. I'm on my way home and the 20 minute trip at the gas station is over. Now, I know sometimes your sitting somewhere waiting for an opening in traffic and you miss it. You have a brain fart or something. Its fine, we've all done it. There was just something about this one that didn't add up.

Disclaimer

2007-10-01T20:46:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone,

I guess this is where I should introduce myself a little bit. Well, I am one who thought he would never get involved in the blogging world. Never thought it would be my kind of thing. Now, here I am. There have been several things to happen in the past few days to bring me to this point. I will give a little detail on that in a bit. But first the disclaimer...

Disclaimer:

This is a blog based on my thoughts and opinions. You may agree or disagree. I'm not here to put anyone down or be a downer. This is going to be a place where I can vent my views on some of the stupid things I see and hear from time to time. You know, the things that make you stop and say to yourself "You have got to be kidding!" or something similar. I'm in no way saying I'm perfect. I make stupid decisions and do stupid things too. Who knows maybe someone out there has seen me do something stupid and has blogged about it. I've definitely had my share of stupid moments. I may even write about myself from time to time as well. You never know when someone might catch you doing something they think is just plain stupid. Just remember, while you might have a perfectly good explanation for the thing you did, the person on the other end doesn't really care about that. So here we go... On with the Common thoughts from this common guy...