Patriarch

I am a venerable old man, at least according to Websters. Yes, it is a new roll that I am not sure how to handle, but we will do it just like everything else, one day at a time.

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Training When I look back at all I have been through the last 3.5 years, I am beginning to think there was a reason for these trials. What was the reason? Well, I guess it was time for me to grow up. All of the family counseling, psychological training, and philosophy had to be for something. I think this may be it. Family Family was always the most important thing for my father. I realized this at an early age because of our Christmas ritual. After eating Christmas lunch at my grandparents, we would get in the car and spend the rest of the day and long into the night visiting anyone that was remotely related to us. It was pure torture being a kid with new toys to play with, but no time to do it. I can see now why Pop did this. Toys weren't what was important, family is. Duty Patriarch sounds like a pretty cool thing. It sounds somehow Greek, classy, and wise. It sounds like you have won some kind of title and everyone should listen to you, after all, you are the Patriarch. That couldn't be further from the truth. When he became the patriarch of the family, at times the pressure seemed too much for Pop. He took it upon himself to ensure everything was fixed and everyone was cared for. While this seems wonderful, it is also wrong. You do what you can and don't assign undue pressure on yourself. I wish Pop could have learned this. In reality, being the Patriarch is a duty, a duty to put family first, which is basically what I have been doing for years by attempting to follow the results of family counseling as close as possible. And that is the important point here. You don't assume that if everything doesn't go perfect, you failed. You only fail if you quit, which is something I will never do. Honor These days I think of myself and family as the same thing. Being a member of a family is both an honor and a duty. Yes, you should be proud of your family, as I am of mine. You should honor your family and respect the differing views within it. You should also cherish and protect the values that bind your family together, which is what makes being a member of the family such an honor. Legacy Like Will Rogers, we would all like to be remembered fondly. Yes, someday, we will all reach the end of our journey and the only thing we will have left is how we are remembered. This is part of why charity, maintaining the family, and putting others first is so important. It is why I studied so hard and it is what drives my actions these days. I don't know how long i will be here, but I will be remembered fondly.

Oregon Trail My boss mentioned getting me to come to Oregon for three months. I thought he was kidding. Earlier this week he said he is having trouble making it happen. I should hope so. Can you imagine leaving your apartment and things for 3 months straight? He did say he would pay for Scooby to come too. Bills One of the things about getting older is that you have more money reserves and are betting handling the money that you do have. The money you have is not yours. It is the families. I didn't view it until I realized how much I am inheriting. How can you not think that inheritance is a way for the family to improve itself. Wise Just because you are older, doesn't mean you are smarter or always know what is best. Being older means that you are more experienced. If you are smart enough to realize you don't know everything, then you are truly wise. Auburn Unfortunately my Auburn Tigers lost the Iron Bowl, 21-26. But Alabama was the number 2 team in the nation. Auburn had a completely new staff and a severe lack of players. The players played their hearts out and I am very pleased

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Take Care,
 Steve

Joining the World

Joining the World
Through the use of twitter I have become more in touch with what is going on in the world. Whether that is a good or a bad thing remains to be seen, but I like the short twitter messages that give you an idea of what is going on without getting into a lot of detail. That way if the topic is depressing, I can simply avoid it. It is enough to know that 16 Umpa Lumpas were killed in a chocolate factory explosion without getting into all of the details, or perhaps it is just me.

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Investing If I had one thing to do differently in life, I would have started investing like I am now back when I graduated college. I find joy in seeing how things do every day and it is nice to see the dividends roll in each month. No, it isn't a lot of money yet, although I have made a couple of thousand this year when you include in the stock trades. It is more the effects of compounding and how much I can make in the future by simply letting my money work for me, which I consider exciting. I recommend Charles Schwab. I feel safe doing my investing through them. Giving It is ironic that I will end up giving more this year than I made off my investments. What is the point in making the money if you are going to just give it away? The point is making the money so that you can give it away. Being able to make a different in people's lives is one of the most amazing gifts anyone can receive and I feel blessed. Don't give until it hurts. Give until if feels good. Another aspect of giving is what we are doing in the Middle East. I do not believe we should be bringing democracy to the region. It is kind of like a government program to give free tacos to every American. There are going to be some Americans that don't like Mexican food and  are pissed off you are wasting all that money on tacos. Give the people of these countries a chance to decide for themselves as long as they have a government that will respect the rest of the world community. War, What is it Good For? President Obama is apparently going to give a speech next week outlining why we must win the war in Afghanistan. At the same time I see a tweet where 18 Al Queda where captured in Iran. I hate to see how this has been so drawn out. We haven't approached war correctly since the first Bush. The politicians need to tell the military what they want done, give them the resources to do it, and then shut up and get out of the way. I have seen estimates where we will be in Afghanistan another nine years. Are we winning the war? One of the things we have to ask ourselves is if the war on terrorism has been successful. Since this is a war on terrorism and not on an individual group, it is hard to quantify. The best I think we can do is look at how the war has effected specific terrorist groups. That is when I turn to the world leader in news, Wikipedia. You can check out when stuff happened and what happened and get an idea how things are going. I will leave the judgments up to you. Exit Strategy You must have an exit strategy? Why? We still have troops in South Korea. We shouldn't be sending the message that we are unwilling to do whatever it takes. The message getting out should be that if we cannot stabilize the region, we may be there indefinitely. Why? Because saying that we have a time table encourages the terrorists to keep up what they are doing. The terrorists should be getting the impression that we have unlimited resources and that what they are doing is fruitless. Thanksgiving Resolution People are always making New Years resolutions and they typically fail, so I figured we should buck the trend and come up with Thanksgiving resolutions. Yea, it sounds crazy, but it may just be crazy enough to work. A mind may be a terrible thing to waste, but a waist isn't a terrible thing to mind. After I suck down lard portions of Thanksgiving goodies, I am going to concentrate on my health and improving it.

Life It is almost as if life is a yin-yang thing. You have to throw in enough yang to compensate for the yin. Clean Energy The Obama administration seems to be taking some steps to combat pollution. Now, I don't believe we need to save the planet. The planet will be just fine no matter what we do. It would be nice to save ourselves, though. Not only will clean energy help the environment, over the long haul it can reduce the cost of energy. China I listen to CNBC a lot and just heard an example of one of the things that has bothered me for a long time. A guy was describing how it is much better to invest in companies in China partially due to labor cost, but also due to lower taxes. Why are jobs going overseas? Because that is where the money is, including some of mine. Let the Punishment Fit the Crime Some Navy Seals are accused of punching a guy arrested for killing and mutilating some civilian contractors. They should each be required to receive a check for $10,000 and a promotion. Coke Bottle Shape I saw a show on Coca-cola the other day. During the show they mentioned that the shape of old coke bottles is patented and that they are going to start making 2 liter bottles shaped like that. I thought this was pretty cool. Party Crashers Apparently some less than reputable people crashed Obama's first White House state dinner. Incredible. These people are trying to get on a reality TV show, while ironically many people like this are far from reality.

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Enjoy the holidays. I know I will.

Take Care,
 Steve

Holiday Movies

Instant Topic
As soon as I posted my last blog I realized I had left off something that I love about the holiday season, which is the movies. I love them. I can't get enough. I own severral on VHS and really need to get the DVDs.

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It's a Wonderful Life This has long been one of my Christmas favorites. I think we can all appreciate George Bailey and the pressure that he is under. Yes, many people get the holiday blues. It is understandable because everyone wishes they could do more for the holidays than they are capable. This movie clearly shows what is really important and is a good check to get your priorities in order. Jimmy Stewart has a very memorable moment. Christmas Vacation I simply love this movie. No, it isn't serious. Yes, there are some messages in it. But mainly I just love it because it is so light hearted. There is even a religious side to the movie if you listen carefully. A Christmas Story This movie captures the feelings of a kid anticipating Christmas better than any other movie I know. This is what I grew up with. This movie also contains one of the coolest beans insults you will hear. Plains, Trains, & Automobiles Yes, this one is about a guy trying to get home for Thanksgiving, but it has that same Christmas message. This is a movie that continues to grow on me. This movie had one of the most unique bonding moments in movie history. Miracle on 34th Street This one is a movie that I really didn't get into at first, but the more I watch it, the more I love it. The guy that plays Santa Claus is my picture of the ideal Santa Claus. This movie contained a wonderful message regarding faith. Now, this clip is a bit different. You can find a radio version of the entire thing free here. A Christmas Carol There are numerous versions of this story and I like them all. No, I don't consider this as good as I once did, but it is still a must see at Christmas. You can find an audio version of it here. The Santa Claus Out of the recent Christmas movies, this is probably the closest thing to becoming a classic that I have seen. I didn't really care for the sequels that much, but the first one is very entertaining.

Quarterback Punch I just heard on ESPN that a Notre Dame "fan" punched their QB, Jimmy Clausen, in the face. Man, I love college football and the kids that play it, but some fans seem to take stupidity to a different level. Feedback I am starting to get the blogging itch again, as if you hadn't noticed. As usual, I tend to just blog about whatever happens to be on my mind. Any feedback on what you like or dislike would be appreciated. Milk Executions China has executed two people associated with the tainted milk scandal. Yes, they were killed for selling tainted milk that lead to the death of some babies. Star Trek I am a Star Trek fan. Often I find parables in Star Trek episodes that correspond with real life events, which I find interesting. I also admire the actor's ability to say some of the things with a straight face. Is there something other than a level 3 diagnostic? How can you talk intelligently about clever engineering solutions to problems when you have no idea what you are talking about. Hey, what if we rotate the shield harmonics, re-calibrate the photon torpedoes, and put on side two of Led Zepplin IV? It just might work. What's In a Name? The name you choose for your kid can make or break their career. Is it fair? No. Is it reality? Yes, I find it very likely. Check out this story.

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Enjoy the holidays. I know I will.

Take Care,
 Steve

Thanksgiving Weekend Activities

Another Topic
Well, I appear to be on a roll as topics go. This makes the second blog in a row that I actually have a topic. Not bad. Okay, I stray from the topic considerably, but it is a topic still.

Christmas Shopping I have big plans for shopping this year. I am heading to Amazon and will click my way through my Christmas shopping. I am so excited. No crowded parking lots for me:) The Iron Bowl On Friday at 2:30 eastern time comes my favorite even of the year, the Iron Bowl. It is a football game between Auburn and Alabama, also known as the evil empire. I can't wait. I am an Auburn fan and we are big time underdogs, but I do enjoy watching that game. High Speed Rail One of the choices the United States made was to go with an interstate system rather than a railway system. This was a decision made during the Eisenhower administration. It is a decision that will become more apparent in the near future. One of the joys in traveling to England was that you could get around everywhere with their rail system. China is investing in a huge high speed rail system, which will effectively reduce the size of their country. With trains traveling at over 200 miles per hour, it will change their world. You my have heard that Warren Buffet made a huge acquisition of a railroad not to long ago. Some of the reasons that he mentioned was that because shipping by rail is much more efficient, environmentally friendly, and cost effective. This may seem against American culture, but it makes a lot of sense. Think about it. When you travel by car you are taking a couple of tons of metal with you. How efficient can that be? Additionally, you have to start and stop this big piece of metal. This isn't very efficient at all and much more time consuming. I believe that Buffet has anticipated one of the biggest changes that we will see in our lifetime, the advent of high speed rail in the United States. Imagine that you live in some small town with a rail line that through. You jump on a commuter train to the nearest big city. Suddenly you have high speed rail available that will get you to other big cities while traveling at over 200 miles per hour. Imagine the change this will make to our world. In many cases traveling by train will be quicker than traveling by air. Sure, planes travel at around 500 miles per hour, but how much time do you spend in the airport? Our world will truly change.

Odd Spelling I ran across a word with two Vs in a row. I never thought about it before, but how rare is that? Can anyone name a word with two Vs in a row? I will include the word I found at the bottom of this column. Think about it though. Walking the Puppy Yes, it is a bit chilly these days, but I am looking forward to walking the puppy over the long weekend. We both enjoy it and can use the exercise. Blog Format So, what do you think of the new blog format. I kind of like it. It gives it a newspaper type feel and is different than most. Legal Crap Yes, I am still dealing with legal issues related to the passing of Pop. I am the executor of the will and trying to see that his wishes are carried out. If you are the executor of someone's will, don't be. It is one of the most heart wrenching experiences I have ever been through. What's the Word? The word is savvy. Yes, once you see it, it seems obvious. It just never really occurred to me.

And the planning continues....

Take Care,
 Steve

Preparing for Thanksgiving

Topic
Yes, unlike most of my recent blogs I actually have a topic for this one. Go figure. I am trying to get ready for Thanksgiving and want to think through what I should be thankful for.

Loss I have experienced a lot of loss the last 3 or 4 years, and I feel it should be acknowledged, although being thankful is hardly the word for it. The loss of my wife and kids. The passing of my uncle, Freddie. The passing of my father-in-law, John. The passing of my cousin, Robbie. The passing of my father, Willis (aka Pop). These people were all important to me and I think it important to be thankful for the time that we had. Health Yes, I still have my health. I have my ups and downs. I can't do a lot of what I use to be able to do, but as opposed to the alternative, I am very thankful to still be around. Travel Unfortunately I am unable to travel these days, especially on a tight schedule. Because of this I will again get the chance to spend Thanksgiving alone. I am not up for a trip across town, much less an 8 hour drive. But there is thanks to be given here, too. Although I have had to take an enormous amount of time off to handle family issues this year, my boss has told me to take off as much time as I need for Christmas, so I should be able to get home for Christmas. Ironically enough, it is only when I have to get there in one day that I have trouble. If I have two days, I never seem to have trouble. It must be some kind of mental pressure thing, I suppose. Audio The strange sound project has advanced to a point I never thought it would achieve. I have over 14,000 files in my sound library including most of the top songs from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. I also have a pretty extensive collection of old radio shows. I also have the odd TV show and movie clips, and the odd theme songs. An odd thought struck me the other day. What if I search my sound library for anything related to the holidays? Suddenly I am listening to a lot of holiday related material, including a radio performance of Miracle on 34th Street. For all of this, I am very thankful.

Eating One of the things that is different this year is I actually can afford to do Thanksgiving as I wish, so I can blow some bucks on a proper meal. What does that mean? It means I may have the barbeque place cook me a turkey. Woo hoo!!! Throw in some nukem dressing, mashed potatoes, and the like and I should be set. Add cans of green beans as required. I may even get a sugar coma causing pecan pie. Scooby In actuality I really am not alone for Thanksgiving. Scooby the Wonder Pup will be here and I must consider something special for him for Thanksgiving. Perhaps that will help with the what to do with the extra turkey issue. Pop/Security Because of Pop's hard work and generosity, I no longer have to worry so much about money or a place to live. I now own a home outright in Alabama. I do wish he had enjoyed more of what he earned through his hard work, but I am thankful for all that he has done for me and the family. Love you, Pop. Mom She is the rock that keeps me going. If I had heeded her warnings years ago I would have never gone through the turmoil of the last 3 years. She is wise and I learn more and more each day to appreciate her. Love you, Mom. Baby Brother (aka Warren, aka Daddy Pop) No, he is no baby and he is the father of a couple of my nieces. He amazes me at times by his willingness to give even when he has so little. Love you, Baby Brother.

Well, I am rambling a bit, but I have also got some holiday spirit going on, so I consider this blog a success. I don't know that there is anything here that would interest anyone, but I hope it is an example of looking for the good.

Take Care,
Steve

Gas Powered Puppy

The Holiday Spirit
This year has been different. About a week ago I found myself with the holiday spirit. First the company I worked for had a United Way drive and I signed up for regular payroll deductions. Man, that felt good. I have been very focused on saving money and trying to figure out some way to pay the bills. My responsibilities have increased since the passing of my father and I am the patriarch of the family. I feel a responsibility to make sure everyone is okay, but this was different. I was able to give for the sake of giving and I love it.

Also, I got a call the other day. Usually I don't do phone solicitors. I pretty much ignore them, but this one was special. It was for the Shrine. My father was a member and I do believe the Shrine and helping kids was the biggest joy he had the last few years of his life. Yes, I paid out the butt. The solicitor even got their supervisor on the phone for the contribution and they got someone to call me on how to transfer the money. Yes, a lot of kids are going to the circus because of me, but it really isn't me. It is my father and I know it is what he would have wanted, but it feels so good.

Rock & Roll Fame?
I don't know about you, but the picture to the right gives me the impression that fame isn't what it is cracked up to be. For those of you who are musically challenged, those are the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Sure, I guess the middle guys look happy enough and the guy on top seems to be having a ball, but the guy on the bottom doesn't appear to be a happy camper.

There is life on other planets
For a long time I have known there is life on other planets. There isn't a doubt in my mind, but if is kind of difficult to express why until you understand how truly tiny the earth is. I am also certain there is life on other planets within our own galaxy. Yes, even in terms of our own galaxy, the earth is just a speck of dust.

Now, how can I be so certain? It basically comes down to being able to understand how far a light year is. Yes, I mean far. A light year is a distance, not a period of time. A light year is the distance light travels in a year.

To get an idea of the size we are talking about it is more covenant to me to convert light years into time. I do so by thinking of it this way. Suppose you had a space ship that could travel at the speed of light. If this is the case then every time someone mentions a number of light years they are telling you the number of years it would take you to go to something in your space ship traveling at the speed of light.

Unfortunately these incredible distances are also why it is highly unlikely we will actually ever meet someone from another planet.

Gas Powered Puppy
For a long time now I have noticed that occasionally Scooby would jump up and run as if someone had kicked him. I wondered if he might have some parasite biting him, but could find nothing. I finally figured it out when I noticed that each time he does this right after he passes gas. Apparently it scares the crap out of him. Go figure.

Take Care,
 Steve