Picasa Web Albums - Jon - Guitar Stuff
Click on this site and look at Jon's musings in the guitar store. He has 2 videos in these pics too so....rock on!!! V
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
70+ or -12 What a Choice!
Who do you think is having more fun, Happy or Jessica? We didn't get much snow but we have had white out conditions all night. Who would want to live up north if they could live where Jess is now. That is the gulf, and she is somewhere near Ft Walton, Florida. We have a civil emergency issued and the state police are telling everyone to stay at home. Gary stayed at home today. The wind is howling. They call this a "flash freeze" because we went from 48 degrees to -12 in one hour. Just think, I now know how flash frozen food feels. Brrrrr.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Roller Coaster
Yep that is what we are on right now. One week of nothing but Lake effect snows resulting in over 2 feet of snow with temps in the one digit area. It took one day to melt most of it yesterday. We had a heat wave consisting of one day in the lower 40's, melting the majority of the snow. Yuck, can you say slime on my deck. Today we are under another winter storm warning because another blast of arctic air is barreling down on us. The wind is blowing pretty hard so here we go again.
The squirrel saw his shadow. We had our 30 minutes of sun today and I was standing at the back glass door basking in it when I saw crazy squirrel jumping about out back trying to scrounge up some food. Do squirrels count or it is just ground hogs since we don't have those? That means we only have 4 more months of winter--yeah! I know, I know, ground hogs tell you 6 more weeks if they see their shadow, but we live further north than he does.
Going to include a couple of pics. Jess sent me an xray of what her surgeries look like, thought you might find this interesting. This was an eleven year old and the surgery was about 20 hrs and when the surgeon was finished she was at least 4 inches longer. They go in and straighten out the spine using rods etc. Jess monitors the nerves the doc is cutting close to to make sure the surgeon isn't going to make the patient a quad for life. Also she sent us a pic where she was cutting up a pig in class---gross. This week she is on the coast of the gulf staying in a fancy hotel on the beach--first time she has really enjoyed all the traveling she does. Jon and Lauren are playing uncle and aunt this week to her pups since she can't take them with her. Jason is working his butt off at midcoast in st louis. He has become head of structural engineering and is being groomed to be the director of all engineering. So I won't be expecting any grandbabies any time soon.
Take care and I will talk to you later.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Snow?
A week ago they said we have an arctic front coming and possibly up to 2 feet of snow. They have since changed the forecast now it is only 3 inches but single digit temps. There is no snow on the ground which is just weird. Oh, and one more political note--the democratic convention dudes said Michigan will not be allowed to have democrat delegates at the convention. They will not be allowed a vote in order to punish our governor for changing our primary date. How fair is this? This is why the media wasn't concerned at telling how the democrat vote went.
Thought I would throw in a picture of my new member in the household. Meet Marcella Lucita--Lucy for short and tiny. She is 4 months old. Hercules goes from tolerating her to kissing her. Rocky hates her. He won't even let her touch him. She follows Rocky everywhere he goes.
Well not much happening. I am painting the upstairs bathroom a sand color. Something to do. We need to paint the living area and the stairwell, but with the tall ceilings I will hire someone to do that. We had 4 hours of sunshine yesterday but none again today.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Republicans Win
Well it is all over the news how Romney took 30+ percent of the republican vote. The news doesn't talk about the democrat side of the ticket though. Doesn't everyone want to know that Hillary took 60+ percent of the vote and "undecided" got the rest. Of course, they would have to go through the explanation again of who undecided represents, so as I suspected voting was a waste of effort if you were voting democrat. According to the talk shows this morning, the democrat debate was a real sleeper last night. Didn't watch it. I was one of the many idiots who preferred American Idol over listening to the same old, same old. Give me a plan, give me a way they intend on solving these problems--or if they don't think they can be solved then tell me the truth. Truth, an interesting concept for anyone in government. I guess we are all sheep looking for our judas goat to lead us.
Well, I got a response from my brother and he had a lot to say and I want to share it with you guys. He has a lot of good points to my wanderings yesterday. It may be all a moot point tho if Obama doesn't beat Hillary. I too want "change", even if the change is only to be able to listen to the president speak again. For the last 7 years, I have had to turn the station in order to keep my blood pressure down from having to listen to such an uneducated war monger. I feel embarrassed that he represents us as a people. Not going there---blood pressure starting to soar. Anyway, if anyone else wants to talk about who they want and WHY send me your thoughts. I need help deciding, so send me any info you have.
Here are Jim's comments:
Well, I got a response from my brother and he had a lot to say and I want to share it with you guys. He has a lot of good points to my wanderings yesterday. It may be all a moot point tho if Obama doesn't beat Hillary. I too want "change", even if the change is only to be able to listen to the president speak again. For the last 7 years, I have had to turn the station in order to keep my blood pressure down from having to listen to such an uneducated war monger. I feel embarrassed that he represents us as a people. Not going there---blood pressure starting to soar. Anyway, if anyone else wants to talk about who they want and WHY send me your thoughts. I need help deciding, so send me any info you have.
Here are Jim's comments:
Well, just looked at your blog and I'm sorry to hear that you are down from the weather. In reference to your political musing, I can empathize with your wonderings. I got some thing forwarded to me by the fear mongerers last week talking about B.O.'s current religion. Something about how exclusive his religion is of white people. I just deleted it knowing that it was sent by some right wing assholes.
At this time, I'm ready for CHANGE, good, bad or indifferent. I don't know if he would be good or not, only history will tell. When I think of the stupidity we've endured for the last 7 years, I don't know how a black president could make anything worse. So what if his grandmother has chickens wandering around her bare feet. I can remember stepping in chicken shit many times in our grandmother's yards. Africa will always be Africa. Nobody cares about Niggers killin' Niggers as long as there is no oil and we will never change it. I don't know how far you've gotten into "The Koran", but I don't think of all Islams as terrorists just as I don't think of all Christians as fools like those who "Take Up With Snakes" in the deep south.
It is indeed a shame that we cannot have a purely secular president in the U.S. and I guess maybe Slick Willie came as close as we may ever get. Sometimes we have to overlook our inbred prejudices and take a leap of faith. I am ready to take that leap. Remember, Barrack is HALF WHITE! He is not a descendent of slaves and was raised by white people so he does not share that heritage with most blacks in this country. JFK was 43 when he was elected and although he came from a big political family, he represented change and youthful enthusiasm. He also made mistakes as will any president.
I watched Cynthia McFadden's interview with Mitt Romney last evening and he was very defensive. I'm convinced that his platform would be "Big Business as Usual" should he be elected. John McCain, although I have a great deal of respect for him, is 72. Hell, Reagan was only 69 when he was elected. Too fucking old. I like listening to Mike Huckabee and think he speaks candidly. However, he is an ordainded Bible Banger and I think the country is too far to the Religious Right now. I don't think Roe v Wade needs to be overturned and if we are going to have the "Ten Commandments" posted in the Alabama State House, then whe should also have readings from the Koran along with sayings from Confucious. I believe that "separation of church and state" means separation from ALL RELIGIONS" and that Christianity has no special place. So, guess that is my standing. I'm left of center and am not ashamed of it.
As far as Michigan goes, I think it is only the tip of the iceberg as to what's happening to the Ameircan Economy. The simple fact is we live in a global economy, thanks to the internet and although things suck in Michigan, ALL AMERICANS are incredibly rich compared to most of the rest of the people in the world. Even the homeless street bum hanging outside waiting for the mission to open, is wealthy compared to the kids in Rio de Janerio working the garbage dumps to exist. But, because of our prejudices, we think we are something special. We are not! We are just damned lucky to have been born between these coastlines, living under the governance of that most wonderous document conceived in 1787 by a bunch of very smart people. Now that the world economy is levelizing the standard of living, we just cannot accept the fact that we are not smarter or more deserving than some poor chink born in outback China. We are all humans and sometimes it is hard for our spoiled asses to realise it. All the great empires of history have fallen and this one is no different. I'm afraid we are living in the beginning of that end and it is really hard for us to swallow.... Jim.
At this time, I'm ready for CHANGE, good, bad or indifferent. I don't know if he would be good or not, only history will tell. When I think of the stupidity we've endured for the last 7 years, I don't know how a black president could make anything worse. So what if his grandmother has chickens wandering around her bare feet. I can remember stepping in chicken shit many times in our grandmother's yards. Africa will always be Africa. Nobody cares about Niggers killin' Niggers as long as there is no oil and we will never change it. I don't know how far you've gotten into "The Koran", but I don't think of all Islams as terrorists just as I don't think of all Christians as fools like those who "Take Up With Snakes" in the deep south.
It is indeed a shame that we cannot have a purely secular president in the U.S. and I guess maybe Slick Willie came as close as we may ever get. Sometimes we have to overlook our inbred prejudices and take a leap of faith. I am ready to take that leap. Remember, Barrack is HALF WHITE! He is not a descendent of slaves and was raised by white people so he does not share that heritage with most blacks in this country. JFK was 43 when he was elected and although he came from a big political family, he represented change and youthful enthusiasm. He also made mistakes as will any president.
I watched Cynthia McFadden's interview with Mitt Romney last evening and he was very defensive. I'm convinced that his platform would be "Big Business as Usual" should he be elected. John McCain, although I have a great deal of respect for him, is 72. Hell, Reagan was only 69 when he was elected. Too fucking old. I like listening to Mike Huckabee and think he speaks candidly. However, he is an ordainded Bible Banger and I think the country is too far to the Religious Right now. I don't think Roe v Wade needs to be overturned and if we are going to have the "Ten Commandments" posted in the Alabama State House, then whe should also have readings from the Koran along with sayings from Confucious. I believe that "separation of church and state" means separation from ALL RELIGIONS" and that Christianity has no special place. So, guess that is my standing. I'm left of center and am not ashamed of it.
As far as Michigan goes, I think it is only the tip of the iceberg as to what's happening to the Ameircan Economy. The simple fact is we live in a global economy, thanks to the internet and although things suck in Michigan, ALL AMERICANS are incredibly rich compared to most of the rest of the people in the world. Even the homeless street bum hanging outside waiting for the mission to open, is wealthy compared to the kids in Rio de Janerio working the garbage dumps to exist. But, because of our prejudices, we think we are something special. We are not! We are just damned lucky to have been born between these coastlines, living under the governance of that most wonderous document conceived in 1787 by a bunch of very smart people. Now that the world economy is levelizing the standard of living, we just cannot accept the fact that we are not smarter or more deserving than some poor chink born in outback China. We are all humans and sometimes it is hard for our spoiled asses to realise it. All the great empires of history have fallen and this one is no different. I'm afraid we are living in the beginning of that end and it is really hard for us to swallow.... Jim.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Dull Winter
What a dull winter it has been. At this time of year we usually have a couple of feet of snow on the ground but this winter everything has melted as quick as it has fallen. We have "aboot" 2 inches currently and it is snowing off and on through the last 3 days. It is depressing without the snow. We are having a regular winter like everyone else. I like the snow thick on the ground. Makes the world white and glowing. We have so little light that when we do have tons of snow it brightens the world.
I am sitting here right now listening to "soundscapes" on tv cable music trying to pass the day. I read, play with the dogs, watch tv news till it repeats itself. Not much to write about that would be different to anyone. Same old, same old. The only news lately family wise is Jon is getting married February 29 to a very nice young lady and Jason was promoted to the head of Structural Engineering over 80 other engineers and Jessica hates Atlanta and the multitude of people and the job because each day she seems to be in a different state and city. Her puppies are making it a little more bareable for her though. She has someone to come home to at night.
So, what do you think about the politics going on right now? Today is our primary, but I won't be voting. I feel it won't be a true accounting so why bother. Right after Hillary declared she was running our woman governor decided to pass a bill changing our primary from Feb 5 to today. Why? Well that is a great question. The governor says it would bring more attention to our state and our 10 billion dollar deficit and no work and poverty. Well the way I see it, I figure most people in the United States knows Michigan is a big sink hole because all you have to do is mention the city Detroit. How much longer we will be able to remain here who knows. Right now it is good for us, but now that GE has bought Gary's company many changes have started. I told Gary we should buy us one of those big RV's , do consultant work--6 months here, 6 months there and not let it bother him what GE does. Well we will see. More people are moving out of Michigan than moving in. Anyway back to politics and our primary.
So, when our dear governor changed our primary dates the Democratic Party decided we had to be punished. Why? I haven't a clue. The Democratic party said the candidates would be "bad" if they put their names on the ballot. The only one that said poo-poo to the Party was Hillary. All the other candidates took their names off the ballot. Well, here is what we have now. We can vote for any of the Repulicans we want--(NOT)--or we can vote Hillary or undecided democrat. Now I ask you, how can this be a balanced vote?
Now you have it why I will not put on my 3 layers of clothes, hat, gloves, nanook of the north coat, stand in line in a hot building slowly melting and vote undecided. I am a Democrat and a woman, but I will not vote a woman into office at this time in History. Hillary will be set up for failure. She will be no more effective than Rice is in negotiating with the Muslims. Then who?
Obama is educated--that would be a change from what we have now--yes wet behind the ears--but I feel a quick learner. Think of how far and how fast he has come in this game of politics. I was in Illinois when he ran for Senator. Everyone was saying--who? Oh he's is black--he won't win. But then one day I stopped to listen to him. I forgot he was black when I listened. His wife is also intelligent, spunky with ideas of her own. But once again will we look past his color and see a man? Thought I could till I saw media coverage on his heritage. His grandmother lives in Africa-rowanda. By living, I don't mean in a fine house with servants, etc. No she lives in a hut, speaks no English and was tearing corn off a cob with her flowered cotton dress on, no shoes, and turban on her head (while she was being interviewed ) for her chickens which were running all around her legs. His uncle was also interviewed and he spoke English but once again he was of the same social roots. Came to find out they are Muslims. Here is where I began to worry about my pic for president. I can see the "ties" to Africa and the United States involment in all their civil wars next if he becomes President. Well, so who do I vote for? Maybe I will become a Repulican after all this year. Nahhhhh.
I am sitting here right now listening to "soundscapes" on tv cable music trying to pass the day. I read, play with the dogs, watch tv news till it repeats itself. Not much to write about that would be different to anyone. Same old, same old. The only news lately family wise is Jon is getting married February 29 to a very nice young lady and Jason was promoted to the head of Structural Engineering over 80 other engineers and Jessica hates Atlanta and the multitude of people and the job because each day she seems to be in a different state and city. Her puppies are making it a little more bareable for her though. She has someone to come home to at night.
So, what do you think about the politics going on right now? Today is our primary, but I won't be voting. I feel it won't be a true accounting so why bother. Right after Hillary declared she was running our woman governor decided to pass a bill changing our primary from Feb 5 to today. Why? Well that is a great question. The governor says it would bring more attention to our state and our 10 billion dollar deficit and no work and poverty. Well the way I see it, I figure most people in the United States knows Michigan is a big sink hole because all you have to do is mention the city Detroit. How much longer we will be able to remain here who knows. Right now it is good for us, but now that GE has bought Gary's company many changes have started. I told Gary we should buy us one of those big RV's , do consultant work--6 months here, 6 months there and not let it bother him what GE does. Well we will see. More people are moving out of Michigan than moving in. Anyway back to politics and our primary.
So, when our dear governor changed our primary dates the Democratic Party decided we had to be punished. Why? I haven't a clue. The Democratic party said the candidates would be "bad" if they put their names on the ballot. The only one that said poo-poo to the Party was Hillary. All the other candidates took their names off the ballot. Well, here is what we have now. We can vote for any of the Repulicans we want--(NOT)--or we can vote Hillary or undecided democrat. Now I ask you, how can this be a balanced vote?
Now you have it why I will not put on my 3 layers of clothes, hat, gloves, nanook of the north coat, stand in line in a hot building slowly melting and vote undecided. I am a Democrat and a woman, but I will not vote a woman into office at this time in History. Hillary will be set up for failure. She will be no more effective than Rice is in negotiating with the Muslims. Then who?
Obama is educated--that would be a change from what we have now--yes wet behind the ears--but I feel a quick learner. Think of how far and how fast he has come in this game of politics. I was in Illinois when he ran for Senator. Everyone was saying--who? Oh he's is black--he won't win. But then one day I stopped to listen to him. I forgot he was black when I listened. His wife is also intelligent, spunky with ideas of her own. But once again will we look past his color and see a man? Thought I could till I saw media coverage on his heritage. His grandmother lives in Africa-rowanda. By living, I don't mean in a fine house with servants, etc. No she lives in a hut, speaks no English and was tearing corn off a cob with her flowered cotton dress on, no shoes, and turban on her head (while she was being interviewed ) for her chickens which were running all around her legs. His uncle was also interviewed and he spoke English but once again he was of the same social roots. Came to find out they are Muslims. Here is where I began to worry about my pic for president. I can see the "ties" to Africa and the United States involment in all their civil wars next if he becomes President. Well, so who do I vote for? Maybe I will become a Repulican after all this year. Nahhhhh.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Keeps on Falling
It started Monday morning and it is now Wednesday noon and it has not stopped. What you ask? Snooooooow. We spent Christmas with Jason and Andrea which was a relaxing time. Andrea cooked and we enjoyed. I think she now knows why I don't like to do holidays, because you spend so much time trying to feed and take care of others that you don't get down time for yourself. The day after Christmas we returned home to spend New Years here. Gary went out and got bubbley and at 10 I put on a movie with sub-titles to force myself to stay awake. The movie was great on blu ray on our new 50 inch Sony LCD. It kept me awake so much so that I forgot to watch the clock. Gary went downstairs to fiddle with his stereo equipment and he didn't watch the time either. Well after the movie ended past midnight I yelled downstairs Happy New Year I am going to bed. So much for the old farts new year celebration. Bubbley still in fridge. By the way, the movie was called Curse of the Golden Dragon--very artsy fartsy movie and very very beautiful colors. Jason and Jon would like the interesting battle scenes, a cross between kung fu and the matrix.
Hope everyone has a great new year. I am building my own picasa site so you can go there to see all the pictures since it is too many to load on blogger. The site is:
http://picasaweb.google.com/jcshroyer
for jons pics and he has links
http://picasaweb.google.com/donnikaye
for my pics--I am currently building today so hold off on these are come back and see all later
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