To All.............
Long, long ago when I was a kid, Christmas held different values for me than today. Back then it was Santa Claus, Reindeer and presents under the Christmas tree. Time has a way of changing ones ideals and values. As I grow older and hopefully wiser material things, at least to me, have become less important. An object that I once thought of as important, no longer is. I have accumulated many things over time. I enjoy most of them. However, if I was to lose all these things tomorrow because of some unforeseen, catastrophic event, it wouldn't be the end of the world for me.
The things that are important to me today are, family, friends and life in general. These are very tangible things. Things we feel every day. I enjoy them immensely. This is especially true during the Holiday season we are in. Christmas and the approaching New Year are times that bring family and friends together. At times, we drift apart because of outside pressures exerted on us by work and other responsibilities. It's important to keep things in perspective. We need to step back, once in a while, and re-assess what's most important.
Having said that, I hope all that read this truly enjoy this Holiday season and all the joy it can bring. Embrace the good feelings. Hug your significant other, whomever it may be. Take a closer look at your kids. Listen a little closer to what they are saying. Get in touch with your friends, just to wish them a happy Holiday. Do this and I'm sure this time will be a little more special this year!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.......hope no one gets coal in their stocking!! (-;
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Thanksgiving....
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving once again. How many of these have I experienced...it would be an understatement to answer 'lots'. It's actually been a few more than that. 'Tom' the turkey has made the supreme sacrifice and will be the guest of honor on our dining room table, surrounded by all the trimmings that accompany him on this occasion. it's a splendid arrangement. My wife is a great cook and everything will taste wonderful.
The entire family will be together...what remains of us. Time has thinned the ranks, so to speak, and over the years, the numbers have been dramatic. When I was a kid, we'd gather at my Grandfather's house. The family was quite large. The house was filled with raucous laughter and numerous conversations all going on at the same time. Today the number closer to seven. As I said...dramatic. However, the fun of getting together is still very much alive. Having all of us together for even a short time always brings joy and laughter. To talk with one another over a Turkey dinner..catch up on things not yet discussed. To rekindle the closeness that tends to fade when apart for a time makes this time together special.
The start of the Holiday season with family and friends. Getting together to celebrate Thanksgiving and all we have to be thankful for is what warms our hearts. Revisiting our values, family and friends. After all, isn't that what the Holiday season is all about?
My family and I wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our service men and women around the world. We can't begin to thank you enough for your service and sacrifice that allows us to enjoy this Holiday season. Without your protection and dedication to duty we could never enjoy this time with our families and friends. God speed to you all!
Happy Holidays to all who read this blog....
Jake T
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving once again. How many of these have I experienced...it would be an understatement to answer 'lots'. It's actually been a few more than that. 'Tom' the turkey has made the supreme sacrifice and will be the guest of honor on our dining room table, surrounded by all the trimmings that accompany him on this occasion. it's a splendid arrangement. My wife is a great cook and everything will taste wonderful.
The entire family will be together...what remains of us. Time has thinned the ranks, so to speak, and over the years, the numbers have been dramatic. When I was a kid, we'd gather at my Grandfather's house. The family was quite large. The house was filled with raucous laughter and numerous conversations all going on at the same time. Today the number closer to seven. As I said...dramatic. However, the fun of getting together is still very much alive. Having all of us together for even a short time always brings joy and laughter. To talk with one another over a Turkey dinner..catch up on things not yet discussed. To rekindle the closeness that tends to fade when apart for a time makes this time together special.
The start of the Holiday season with family and friends. Getting together to celebrate Thanksgiving and all we have to be thankful for is what warms our hearts. Revisiting our values, family and friends. After all, isn't that what the Holiday season is all about?
My family and I wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our service men and women around the world. We can't begin to thank you enough for your service and sacrifice that allows us to enjoy this Holiday season. Without your protection and dedication to duty we could never enjoy this time with our families and friends. God speed to you all!
Happy Holidays to all who read this blog....
Jake T
Friday, November 4, 2011
Deadly storm......
Three million people without power. The storm rolled in last Saturday. It was a quick mover. Snow amounts ranged from 14" to 24" inches and very heavy. A quick mover, in and out in less than twenty four hours, and left behind, what some described, as "total devastation". The end result was thousands of downed trees and power lines. Three million people without power. Most without heat, water or other basic facilities.
To date, more than twenty people have died due mostly to CO poisoning. Outdoor gas grills inside a closed up house, unapproved space heaters, gasoline generators in closed areas. More deaths from falling branches and one individual from electrocution. Apparently he exited his car to get a better view and touched a metal guard rail that had a live power line touching it. Two deaths occurred in my town. people were overcome by CO.
After the storm I spent over five hours clearing my driveway so I could get out of my yard. Once freed, I drove around town...or maybe a I should say, maneuvered around town. Downed trees and fallen power wires everywhere resulted in a massive obstacle course. I swerved from one side of the street to the other. In some instances, avoiding other cars doing the same. The entire town looked like a tornado had gone through but, in reality there had been no wind. All the damage was from heavy wet snow.
Initially, the utility companies were slow to react. Outside help wasn't called until a few days after the storm. Consequently, many homes are still without power, including mine. It's a week today. In all honesty, I should tell you I have a generator. And because of it, I'm dealing with the result of this storm reasonably well. I can't say that for many thousands of others. I feel badly for them. I can only hope that power will be restored soon.
Last night before going to bed, I went out in the dark, lit only by a small flashlight I carried. It was time to fuel the generator once again. How many times and I done this in the past week....lots. I shut down the generator so it will cool before filling it. Suddenly, the roar of the engine ceases and then......quiet! But, wait..what's that in the background? Generators!! I can hear them running all around. Other houses have them. They are distant. I live out in the woods. Funny thing. After listening for a while, the only two sounds I could hear were generators and barking dogs. Gee, I hope the power comes back soon...I think I'm loosing it!!
Jake T
Three million people without power. The storm rolled in last Saturday. It was a quick mover. Snow amounts ranged from 14" to 24" inches and very heavy. A quick mover, in and out in less than twenty four hours, and left behind, what some described, as "total devastation". The end result was thousands of downed trees and power lines. Three million people without power. Most without heat, water or other basic facilities.
To date, more than twenty people have died due mostly to CO poisoning. Outdoor gas grills inside a closed up house, unapproved space heaters, gasoline generators in closed areas. More deaths from falling branches and one individual from electrocution. Apparently he exited his car to get a better view and touched a metal guard rail that had a live power line touching it. Two deaths occurred in my town. people were overcome by CO.
After the storm I spent over five hours clearing my driveway so I could get out of my yard. Once freed, I drove around town...or maybe a I should say, maneuvered around town. Downed trees and fallen power wires everywhere resulted in a massive obstacle course. I swerved from one side of the street to the other. In some instances, avoiding other cars doing the same. The entire town looked like a tornado had gone through but, in reality there had been no wind. All the damage was from heavy wet snow.
Initially, the utility companies were slow to react. Outside help wasn't called until a few days after the storm. Consequently, many homes are still without power, including mine. It's a week today. In all honesty, I should tell you I have a generator. And because of it, I'm dealing with the result of this storm reasonably well. I can't say that for many thousands of others. I feel badly for them. I can only hope that power will be restored soon.
Last night before going to bed, I went out in the dark, lit only by a small flashlight I carried. It was time to fuel the generator once again. How many times and I done this in the past week....lots. I shut down the generator so it will cool before filling it. Suddenly, the roar of the engine ceases and then......quiet! But, wait..what's that in the background? Generators!! I can hear them running all around. Other houses have them. They are distant. I live out in the woods. Funny thing. After listening for a while, the only two sounds I could hear were generators and barking dogs. Gee, I hope the power comes back soon...I think I'm loosing it!!
Jake T
Monday, October 31, 2011
Total Devastation......
The lights went out suddenly. All sounds ceased. "It won't be like this for long", I told my wife. She didn't agree...always the skeptic. We sat there for a while, waiting. Nothing. Gee, maybe she's right. It kills me, because she usually is right. Why does it seem like women are always right?? Well, that's for another blog. She might read this and if she doesn't like it I'll end up with a few cold meals and talking to myself.
The weatherman had predicted the first snowstorm of the season it wasn't even winter yet! Halloween was in a few days. Halloween was always reserved for ghouls and goblins, pumpkins, trick or treat. Kids canvassing the neighborhood loading up on sugar. Well, this year things would be different. Fourteen inches of snow rolled in and put a damper on those plans. It snowed hard most of the day. Heavy wet snowflakes. Looking out the window I could see it piling up on the pine trees that surround my house. The branches began sagging from the additional weight. After a few hours...that's when the power went out.
It was dark now. The only light in the house was from several flashlights. Being the resourceful guy I am, I ran down to the basement and got the trusty generator ready. I rolled it outside plugged it into the house electrical panel and like magic, power! It would keep my water supply, refrigerator, heat and a few outlets for light. The power was going to return in an hours or so....skeptical wife, didn't agree! No worry, she'll be wrong this time and I'll have the last word..
Turned in early. No t.v., not much light. We decided to sleep downstairs form the bedroom. I wanted to monitor the generator's operation and be sure it kept running throughout the night. My wife stayed downstairs also, making sure I didn't do anything like lock myself out of the house, after venturing out during the night to check the generator....she knows me so well.
It was long sleepless night. Saying the couch I decided to sleep on was uncomfortable, is an understatement. It just occurred to me, maybe that's the reason visitors don't stay overnight. As I lay there listening to quiet soothing hum of the generator, sleep's dark veil began creeping in. CRACK...THUD!.. what was that? We lay there for a few minutes, listening. Again more cracking. Was it thunder? Didn't see any flashes of lightening. There it is again, only closer. Peered out the window but, much too dark and the snow is falling and building up. It was going to be a long night...
At first light I looked out the window. My initial impression was a winter wonderland. Everything blanketed In mounds of white fluffy snow. A photographer's dream. But wait. Why are all the trees laying around the yard? The fence, part of the horse paddock is broken, lying in pieces. The paddock is littered with large broken tree limbs. I hurried outside. It looked like a winter war zone. Destruction everywhere. My 400 foot long driveway was completely blocked off with broken branches and fallen trees. The road in front of my yard was a mass of tree limbs and shattered trees, some taking down power lines along with them.
Later in the day, I drove around town to see what damage had occurred elsewhere. It was complete. It seemed no one escaped Mother Nature's wrath. Cars, houses, property damaged. Driving anywhere was like driving an obstacle course. Swerving from one side of the road to the other to avoid power lines and debris. All businesses were closed including some of the more important ones..like McDonalds and Burger King. A little humor....but, I do miss them!
It's been three days now. Power will not be on for at least several more days. Initially three million people were affected. Slowly, some areas are getting back on line. Others will have to wait a little longer. My family is fortunate to have a generator. Many families have to tough it out the best they can. I feel badly for them. There is no comfort being cold,and in some instances, hungry. Though it snowed heavily and caused tremendous damage, the weather has been reasonably mild. Temperatures reached the 50's today and the forecast is for more of the same for the next several days.
It's the end of October. In the estimation of most, much too early for this kind of weather. This may be true however, this year, so far, we have experienced an earth quake, hail storm, tornado and a close call with a hurricane. Interestingly enough, the year isn't over. If this is a preview of what's ahead...it's going to be an interesting winter!
Jake T
448
The lights went out suddenly. All sounds ceased. "It won't be like this for long", I told my wife. She didn't agree...always the skeptic. We sat there for a while, waiting. Nothing. Gee, maybe she's right. It kills me, because she usually is right. Why does it seem like women are always right?? Well, that's for another blog. She might read this and if she doesn't like it I'll end up with a few cold meals and talking to myself.
The weatherman had predicted the first snowstorm of the season it wasn't even winter yet! Halloween was in a few days. Halloween was always reserved for ghouls and goblins, pumpkins, trick or treat. Kids canvassing the neighborhood loading up on sugar. Well, this year things would be different. Fourteen inches of snow rolled in and put a damper on those plans. It snowed hard most of the day. Heavy wet snowflakes. Looking out the window I could see it piling up on the pine trees that surround my house. The branches began sagging from the additional weight. After a few hours...that's when the power went out.
It was dark now. The only light in the house was from several flashlights. Being the resourceful guy I am, I ran down to the basement and got the trusty generator ready. I rolled it outside plugged it into the house electrical panel and like magic, power! It would keep my water supply, refrigerator, heat and a few outlets for light. The power was going to return in an hours or so....skeptical wife, didn't agree! No worry, she'll be wrong this time and I'll have the last word..
Turned in early. No t.v., not much light. We decided to sleep downstairs form the bedroom. I wanted to monitor the generator's operation and be sure it kept running throughout the night. My wife stayed downstairs also, making sure I didn't do anything like lock myself out of the house, after venturing out during the night to check the generator....she knows me so well.
It was long sleepless night. Saying the couch I decided to sleep on was uncomfortable, is an understatement. It just occurred to me, maybe that's the reason visitors don't stay overnight. As I lay there listening to quiet soothing hum of the generator, sleep's dark veil began creeping in. CRACK...THUD!.. what was that? We lay there for a few minutes, listening. Again more cracking. Was it thunder? Didn't see any flashes of lightening. There it is again, only closer. Peered out the window but, much too dark and the snow is falling and building up. It was going to be a long night...
At first light I looked out the window. My initial impression was a winter wonderland. Everything blanketed In mounds of white fluffy snow. A photographer's dream. But wait. Why are all the trees laying around the yard? The fence, part of the horse paddock is broken, lying in pieces. The paddock is littered with large broken tree limbs. I hurried outside. It looked like a winter war zone. Destruction everywhere. My 400 foot long driveway was completely blocked off with broken branches and fallen trees. The road in front of my yard was a mass of tree limbs and shattered trees, some taking down power lines along with them.
Later in the day, I drove around town to see what damage had occurred elsewhere. It was complete. It seemed no one escaped Mother Nature's wrath. Cars, houses, property damaged. Driving anywhere was like driving an obstacle course. Swerving from one side of the road to the other to avoid power lines and debris. All businesses were closed including some of the more important ones..like McDonalds and Burger King. A little humor....but, I do miss them!
It's been three days now. Power will not be on for at least several more days. Initially three million people were affected. Slowly, some areas are getting back on line. Others will have to wait a little longer. My family is fortunate to have a generator. Many families have to tough it out the best they can. I feel badly for them. There is no comfort being cold,and in some instances, hungry. Though it snowed heavily and caused tremendous damage, the weather has been reasonably mild. Temperatures reached the 50's today and the forecast is for more of the same for the next several days.
It's the end of October. In the estimation of most, much too early for this kind of weather. This may be true however, this year, so far, we have experienced an earth quake, hail storm, tornado and a close call with a hurricane. Interestingly enough, the year isn't over. If this is a preview of what's ahead...it's going to be an interesting winter!
Jake T
448
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Friendship.........
Several days ago I met up with my oldest friend, Bobby S. We've known each other since we were kids. I won't say exactly how long. That would give away too much information. It's like a woman not giving up her age. The last time we talked face to face was about nine years ago. Recently, via the Internet, we started conversing again. Small talk at first. How's the wife and kids? Where are you working? How many pets...you know how it goes but, finally we got down to the important stuff. What kind of cars have you had? Are you still racing at the strip?? What are you driving now? These are the types of questions that, no matter how much time has passed, are still relevant. They strip away the awkwardness of a long absence between good friends. The subject 'cars', is the glue, that binds our friendship to this day. Our common love of cars and all things car related forged this bond long ago. We worked on them together, drove them and in a few instances, wrecked them.
As we sat and talked, the subject changed to other things. Old memories rose to the forefront. People, places and events long buried in our mind's archive. Many not thought of in years. Especially poignant, remembering our parents, all passed now but not forgotten. Both our father's were French, our mother's Italian. In addition, both our wives are Polish. Just from that perspective alone, we have a lot in common. However, it's much more than that.
Growing up in our neighborhood was a rich experience. We had many friends and we were all close. We talked about many of them and what had become of them. Recalling times and events. My own recall wasn't as good as Bob's but, as the discussion went on more recollections surfaced. We recalled names, dates and events long ago forgotten. It was enjoyable to step back in time after so many years. Why had we waited so long to get back in touch with one another? We live a mere ten miles apart. I drive near his neighborhood at least twice a week. Didn't cross my mind to stop in. Probably the same for him. Busy lives working and raising families. No time.
The moral of this blog could be..... if you have old friends and haven't stayed in contact with them, maybe now would be a good time. If you wait too long you may miss the opportunity to relive some fun memories from the past. And in the process, rekindle an old friendship.
Jake T
Several days ago I met up with my oldest friend, Bobby S. We've known each other since we were kids. I won't say exactly how long. That would give away too much information. It's like a woman not giving up her age. The last time we talked face to face was about nine years ago. Recently, via the Internet, we started conversing again. Small talk at first. How's the wife and kids? Where are you working? How many pets...you know how it goes but, finally we got down to the important stuff. What kind of cars have you had? Are you still racing at the strip?? What are you driving now? These are the types of questions that, no matter how much time has passed, are still relevant. They strip away the awkwardness of a long absence between good friends. The subject 'cars', is the glue, that binds our friendship to this day. Our common love of cars and all things car related forged this bond long ago. We worked on them together, drove them and in a few instances, wrecked them.
As we sat and talked, the subject changed to other things. Old memories rose to the forefront. People, places and events long buried in our mind's archive. Many not thought of in years. Especially poignant, remembering our parents, all passed now but not forgotten. Both our father's were French, our mother's Italian. In addition, both our wives are Polish. Just from that perspective alone, we have a lot in common. However, it's much more than that.
Growing up in our neighborhood was a rich experience. We had many friends and we were all close. We talked about many of them and what had become of them. Recalling times and events. My own recall wasn't as good as Bob's but, as the discussion went on more recollections surfaced. We recalled names, dates and events long ago forgotten. It was enjoyable to step back in time after so many years. Why had we waited so long to get back in touch with one another? We live a mere ten miles apart. I drive near his neighborhood at least twice a week. Didn't cross my mind to stop in. Probably the same for him. Busy lives working and raising families. No time.
The moral of this blog could be..... if you have old friends and haven't stayed in contact with them, maybe now would be a good time. If you wait too long you may miss the opportunity to relive some fun memories from the past. And in the process, rekindle an old friendship.
Jake T
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Lobo was his name...
'Oreo Lobo' was his name. He was a magnificent Siberian Husky. Grey and white with piercing blue eyes. And the signature sickle shaped tail that was in a constant wagging motion. Friendly enough but, independent, typical of a northern breed dog. Though he was full pedigree, he was on the larger end of the standard size for his breed. He stood twenty three inches at the shoulder and weighed 100 pounds.
We first met on a warm sunny day. I was working in my front yard while across the street a neighbor had a visitor showing off a new litter of puppies. I was unaware until I turned and there sitting in front of me was a small black and white ball of fur. He'd crossed the road and ran up and sat behind me. It was love at first sight for the both of us. Before I knew it he was a member of the family. My kids were very young and when it came time to pick a name they came up with 'Oreo'. This was because he was black and white and reminded them of an Oreo cookie....Kids. I added 'Lobo' for balance. I wasn't about to prowl the neighborhood yelling, 'Oreo'..'Oreo'!! If he got lose.
He grew quickly and so did his curiosity. I was having difficulty controlling him. He liked to wander. On more than one occasion he managed to take off and not come back for a few days. I was worried he'd get injured or worse. He didn't respond to reprimands. He'd just stand there, a blank stare and his sickle tail slowly wagging back and forth. I was out of ideas, short of tying him to a clothesline post. Then my wife said, 'why don't you take him to school?'....School?? Are you serious!! Who takes a dog to school? Before I could refuse, she handed me a newspaper ad..'Dog Obedience Training'.
I signed Lobo and me up for Obedience training. The instructor was a retired police officer and he ran the class like a drill Sargent. The result was amazing. Our first night, Lobo responded to a few minor commands. Everything was done using a leash and collar. Wow, I thought, this is easy. Not so fast big guy!! A few weeks into training we began training without a leash. All control was done using only our voices. We were attempting to leave our dog in a 'sit / stay' position, while we, the handlers walked across the room and stood at attention facing our dog. Lobo was supposed to stay in the 'sit' position for five minutes. Things went fine until he decided he'd had enough. Before I could react, he bolted across the room, pushed through a crowd of spectators and ran down the stairs. My voice trailing after him and doing no good. I ran after him, calling 'Oreo...Oreo'!!...didn't I say earlier I wouldn't do that?? I chased him all over town. Just when I was running out of breath, he decided to let me catch up to him. When we returned to class, my instructor smirked and said "Never chase a Malamute", knowing full well Lobo was a Siberian Husky. Apparently he wasn't a fond of Huskies. I ignored his comment and continued training. After completing sixteen weeks of training, we were ready. It was time to put all our hard work to the test.
This would be the first Dog Obedience Trial. Both of us were nervous. We watched the other competitors work through the routines....exercises on and off leash, hand / voice commands and the dreaded sit / stay. Now it was our turn. We stepped into the ring and took our position. The judge gave us the 'nod' to proceed, and we were off. I was so focused on our performance that It's difficult to remember the details of that first competition but, I never forgot the result. We took first place and a trophy! From then on, we attended many Obedience Trials and always finished in the top three. The amazing thing is Siberian Huskies are difficult to train and consequently aren't often seen in the obedience ring. Lobo was an exception. He was a celebrity. Everyone knew him by name.
I've had several dogs since, obedience trained and competed with them. Had good success but, you never forget your first dance....and Lobo was kinda like my first dance..unforgettable.
'Oreo Lobo' was his name. He was a magnificent Siberian Husky. Grey and white with piercing blue eyes. And the signature sickle shaped tail that was in a constant wagging motion. Friendly enough but, independent, typical of a northern breed dog. Though he was full pedigree, he was on the larger end of the standard size for his breed. He stood twenty three inches at the shoulder and weighed 100 pounds.
We first met on a warm sunny day. I was working in my front yard while across the street a neighbor had a visitor showing off a new litter of puppies. I was unaware until I turned and there sitting in front of me was a small black and white ball of fur. He'd crossed the road and ran up and sat behind me. It was love at first sight for the both of us. Before I knew it he was a member of the family. My kids were very young and when it came time to pick a name they came up with 'Oreo'. This was because he was black and white and reminded them of an Oreo cookie....Kids. I added 'Lobo' for balance. I wasn't about to prowl the neighborhood yelling, 'Oreo'..'Oreo'!! If he got lose.
He grew quickly and so did his curiosity. I was having difficulty controlling him. He liked to wander. On more than one occasion he managed to take off and not come back for a few days. I was worried he'd get injured or worse. He didn't respond to reprimands. He'd just stand there, a blank stare and his sickle tail slowly wagging back and forth. I was out of ideas, short of tying him to a clothesline post. Then my wife said, 'why don't you take him to school?'....School?? Are you serious!! Who takes a dog to school? Before I could refuse, she handed me a newspaper ad..'Dog Obedience Training'.
I signed Lobo and me up for Obedience training. The instructor was a retired police officer and he ran the class like a drill Sargent. The result was amazing. Our first night, Lobo responded to a few minor commands. Everything was done using a leash and collar. Wow, I thought, this is easy. Not so fast big guy!! A few weeks into training we began training without a leash. All control was done using only our voices. We were attempting to leave our dog in a 'sit / stay' position, while we, the handlers walked across the room and stood at attention facing our dog. Lobo was supposed to stay in the 'sit' position for five minutes. Things went fine until he decided he'd had enough. Before I could react, he bolted across the room, pushed through a crowd of spectators and ran down the stairs. My voice trailing after him and doing no good. I ran after him, calling 'Oreo...Oreo'!!...didn't I say earlier I wouldn't do that?? I chased him all over town. Just when I was running out of breath, he decided to let me catch up to him. When we returned to class, my instructor smirked and said "Never chase a Malamute", knowing full well Lobo was a Siberian Husky. Apparently he wasn't a fond of Huskies. I ignored his comment and continued training. After completing sixteen weeks of training, we were ready. It was time to put all our hard work to the test.
This would be the first Dog Obedience Trial. Both of us were nervous. We watched the other competitors work through the routines....exercises on and off leash, hand / voice commands and the dreaded sit / stay. Now it was our turn. We stepped into the ring and took our position. The judge gave us the 'nod' to proceed, and we were off. I was so focused on our performance that It's difficult to remember the details of that first competition but, I never forgot the result. We took first place and a trophy! From then on, we attended many Obedience Trials and always finished in the top three. The amazing thing is Siberian Huskies are difficult to train and consequently aren't often seen in the obedience ring. Lobo was an exception. He was a celebrity. Everyone knew him by name.
I've had several dogs since, obedience trained and competed with them. Had good success but, you never forget your first dance....and Lobo was kinda like my first dance..unforgettable.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
How do you say 'Ouch!'....
Yesterday I was sitting in a parking lot chomping on a McDonald's Cheeseburger. I parked in such a way I can observe traffic in front of me. I know, you're saying 'this guy needs a life' but, I assure you, I was only parked there to finish my lunch. Watching traffic, is better than staring at a brick wall, so that's why I was watching passing cars. Directly across the street is a Burger King Restaurant. It's lunch time and cars are pulling into the parking lot. Not very interesting, I know but, wait, it gets better.
Along comes a new white shiny SUV. The woman driving has a cell phone up to her ear. She's waiting for traffic to pass so she can make a left turn into the Burger King parking lot. Making a left turn with a cell phone against your left ear will impair your vision. How do I know this? Well, she makes her first left turn into the parking lot, then attempts another left turn to reach a parking spot. Problem is she didn't see the island that separates the parking area form the parking lot entrance. Consequently, she doesn't see the very large decorative boulder sitting squarely in the middle of the island. Unbelievably, she drives over the curbing, up to, and onto the boulder with the driver's side tire. The tire literally climbed the boulder and stopped, perched atop it. The boulder is at least two feet tall and has no intention of moving. The front fascia, the lower front end of the car body, buckles and twists upon impact with the boulder. Now she decides to back off the boulder. The fascia again buckles, twists and finally rips off the car. it hangs on only by the wires that connect the front turn signals.
During the entire time she never put down the phone. However, now I could tell she was calling her insurance company. Not easy to see now she is going to blame this on the boulder. After a considerable time on the phone, she exited the car and inspected the body damage. She wiggled, pushed and kicked the fascia...I think she was upset! She then took photos of the car and the boulder with the phone. Once she was satisfied, she got into her car and drove away. She never did go into Burger King...guess she'd lost her appetite. I waved to her as she drove off...I think she waved back..at least, I think it was a wave! (-;
Today I'm lunching at Ruby Tuesday's restaurant. My wife and I are seated close to a window that looks out on the main road. It's a four lane road clogged with traffic. On the opposite side of this road we spot a young girl that waitresses at this restaurant. She's attempting to cross the road and come back to work. She navigates the traffic until she reaches the last double lane. Traffic halts to let her pass. She starts to run but, as she does, she waves a thank you to the stopped drivers, momentarily losing concentration. At the same time she steps onto uneven pavement. In an instant she stumbles and is catapulted forward and downward. She lands spread-eagle on the pavement. Her face is only inches from smashing into a granite curbing. Items in her hands go flying, including her cell phone. Slowly she regains her composure, stands and walks into the restaurant. looking back to where she fell, there is her cell phone on the side walk. Traffic is held up by a traffic light. Many in the cars are eyeing the phone on the sidewalk. At the same time a couple of kids, sitting with their parents, ask if they can retrieve the phone and give it to the waitress. They run out together and get the phone. They are beaming with satisfaction when they return it to her.
I had a chance to talk with her before we left the restaurant. She ended up with a few scrapes and was a little sore but, considering how hard she fell, she was lucky. Her biggest concern was her new cell phone. It was the new Iphone 4S. She had just purchased it earlier this morning. It smashed and would need to be replaced. Mom and dad would be springing for another one!! She didn't mention the other injury...her pride but, that should heal quickly on it's own. My wife and I were relieved she was ok..very nice girl.
Jake T
Yesterday I was sitting in a parking lot chomping on a McDonald's Cheeseburger. I parked in such a way I can observe traffic in front of me. I know, you're saying 'this guy needs a life' but, I assure you, I was only parked there to finish my lunch. Watching traffic, is better than staring at a brick wall, so that's why I was watching passing cars. Directly across the street is a Burger King Restaurant. It's lunch time and cars are pulling into the parking lot. Not very interesting, I know but, wait, it gets better.
Along comes a new white shiny SUV. The woman driving has a cell phone up to her ear. She's waiting for traffic to pass so she can make a left turn into the Burger King parking lot. Making a left turn with a cell phone against your left ear will impair your vision. How do I know this? Well, she makes her first left turn into the parking lot, then attempts another left turn to reach a parking spot. Problem is she didn't see the island that separates the parking area form the parking lot entrance. Consequently, she doesn't see the very large decorative boulder sitting squarely in the middle of the island. Unbelievably, she drives over the curbing, up to, and onto the boulder with the driver's side tire. The tire literally climbed the boulder and stopped, perched atop it. The boulder is at least two feet tall and has no intention of moving. The front fascia, the lower front end of the car body, buckles and twists upon impact with the boulder. Now she decides to back off the boulder. The fascia again buckles, twists and finally rips off the car. it hangs on only by the wires that connect the front turn signals.
During the entire time she never put down the phone. However, now I could tell she was calling her insurance company. Not easy to see now she is going to blame this on the boulder. After a considerable time on the phone, she exited the car and inspected the body damage. She wiggled, pushed and kicked the fascia...I think she was upset! She then took photos of the car and the boulder with the phone. Once she was satisfied, she got into her car and drove away. She never did go into Burger King...guess she'd lost her appetite. I waved to her as she drove off...I think she waved back..at least, I think it was a wave! (-;
Today I'm lunching at Ruby Tuesday's restaurant. My wife and I are seated close to a window that looks out on the main road. It's a four lane road clogged with traffic. On the opposite side of this road we spot a young girl that waitresses at this restaurant. She's attempting to cross the road and come back to work. She navigates the traffic until she reaches the last double lane. Traffic halts to let her pass. She starts to run but, as she does, she waves a thank you to the stopped drivers, momentarily losing concentration. At the same time she steps onto uneven pavement. In an instant she stumbles and is catapulted forward and downward. She lands spread-eagle on the pavement. Her face is only inches from smashing into a granite curbing. Items in her hands go flying, including her cell phone. Slowly she regains her composure, stands and walks into the restaurant. looking back to where she fell, there is her cell phone on the side walk. Traffic is held up by a traffic light. Many in the cars are eyeing the phone on the sidewalk. At the same time a couple of kids, sitting with their parents, ask if they can retrieve the phone and give it to the waitress. They run out together and get the phone. They are beaming with satisfaction when they return it to her.
I had a chance to talk with her before we left the restaurant. She ended up with a few scrapes and was a little sore but, considering how hard she fell, she was lucky. Her biggest concern was her new cell phone. It was the new Iphone 4S. She had just purchased it earlier this morning. It smashed and would need to be replaced. Mom and dad would be springing for another one!! She didn't mention the other injury...her pride but, that should heal quickly on it's own. My wife and I were relieved she was ok..very nice girl.
Jake T
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Would we have to put him down?
It was imperceptible at first. Something was wrong but, it was difficult to pin point exactly what. He wasn't walking right. His stride was off and not in a straight line. Then quickly it happened. He wasn't able to control his hind legs. It's my daughter's nine year old German Shepherd 'Sambuca'. Prior to when this problem arose, everything seemed fine. 'Sammy', as we affectionately call him, was a robust happy dog. Now he can hardly stand, much less walk. It's disheartening to see him like this. Our family feels helpless. He's a large dog and weighs 100 pounds. It would be difficult, if not impossible, to carry him if need be.
It first appeared during a visit at the vet. During a routine teeth cleaning, my daughter asked the vet. to check his hind legs...his stride was off. After the exam It was clear something was indeed wrong. His reflexes weren't normal. The veterinarian told us he suspected a form of canine MS. Two recent visits to the Vet's office including two doses of anesthesia caused the disease to surface. She advised trying therapy and a few other treatments, one of which was Acupuncture.
We were going to have to make a decision and soon. Sammy is a large dog and heavy. It would be difficult, if not impossible, to carry him outdoors each time nature called. His quality of life was in question. The dreaded thought of euthanasia began creeping in. Not an option we were willing to accept. About the same time we were agonizing over what to do, my daughter researched a place that built animal friendly wheelchairs. The company called 'Eddies Wheels', a small business in Massachusetts. We were there the next day. Sammy was put into a demo wheelchair and before he was fully strapped in, he took off across the yard with us running after him. Clearly, this would work. After a number of measurements, to assure a good fit were taken, we placed the order. In the interim, while waiting for Sammy's new chair, we took home a loner wheelchair. For the next week, while we waited for Sammy's new 'ride' he used it everyday. With the two other dogs we walked on a trail behind my house. He was able to keep up with the other dogs. In fact, except for a few minor roll overs, due to the rough terrain and sharp cornering, he did great. His front legs doing all the work while his hind end gets a free ride. His attitude improved instantly.
The word 'Acupuncture' came up again. Would this really work... Especially on a dog? Paula found a veterinarian that specialized in this procedure. We made an appointment. The results were amazing. Within days, Sammy started regaining use of his rear legs. Shaky at first, he continued to improve to a point where he was able to keep up with the other dogs. Admittedly, up to the time we arrived for the initially Vet's visit I was thinking 'Black Magic', 'Voodoo' or something else. It was good to be wrong in this instance.
It's been about two years since this began. Sammy has done fairly well. He gets acupuncture treatments on a monthly schedule. He is able to walk unassisted. Most of the hard work is done with his front legs. Consequently, his neck and shoulder muscles have developed greatly. He literally climbs up stairs using the strength of his front legs.
Now, my German Shepherd 'Zack' is ailing. He's showing discomfort in his neck, possibly a strain. Friday he's going to the Vet for Acupuncture...first time. Again, I'm carrying this 'skeptical' thing in my head. Even so, I'm going to try it on him. It's an alternative to drugs. It can't hurt...
Thinking about it...I have a little pain in my shoulder...maybe I could have the Vet stick a few pins in me while I'm there....nah.....(-;
It was imperceptible at first. Something was wrong but, it was difficult to pin point exactly what. He wasn't walking right. His stride was off and not in a straight line. Then quickly it happened. He wasn't able to control his hind legs. It's my daughter's nine year old German Shepherd 'Sambuca'. Prior to when this problem arose, everything seemed fine. 'Sammy', as we affectionately call him, was a robust happy dog. Now he can hardly stand, much less walk. It's disheartening to see him like this. Our family feels helpless. He's a large dog and weighs 100 pounds. It would be difficult, if not impossible, to carry him if need be.
It first appeared during a visit at the vet. During a routine teeth cleaning, my daughter asked the vet. to check his hind legs...his stride was off. After the exam It was clear something was indeed wrong. His reflexes weren't normal. The veterinarian told us he suspected a form of canine MS. Two recent visits to the Vet's office including two doses of anesthesia caused the disease to surface. She advised trying therapy and a few other treatments, one of which was Acupuncture.
We were going to have to make a decision and soon. Sammy is a large dog and heavy. It would be difficult, if not impossible, to carry him outdoors each time nature called. His quality of life was in question. The dreaded thought of euthanasia began creeping in. Not an option we were willing to accept. About the same time we were agonizing over what to do, my daughter researched a place that built animal friendly wheelchairs. The company called 'Eddies Wheels', a small business in Massachusetts. We were there the next day. Sammy was put into a demo wheelchair and before he was fully strapped in, he took off across the yard with us running after him. Clearly, this would work. After a number of measurements, to assure a good fit were taken, we placed the order. In the interim, while waiting for Sammy's new chair, we took home a loner wheelchair. For the next week, while we waited for Sammy's new 'ride' he used it everyday. With the two other dogs we walked on a trail behind my house. He was able to keep up with the other dogs. In fact, except for a few minor roll overs, due to the rough terrain and sharp cornering, he did great. His front legs doing all the work while his hind end gets a free ride. His attitude improved instantly.
The word 'Acupuncture' came up again. Would this really work... Especially on a dog? Paula found a veterinarian that specialized in this procedure. We made an appointment. The results were amazing. Within days, Sammy started regaining use of his rear legs. Shaky at first, he continued to improve to a point where he was able to keep up with the other dogs. Admittedly, up to the time we arrived for the initially Vet's visit I was thinking 'Black Magic', 'Voodoo' or something else. It was good to be wrong in this instance.
It's been about two years since this began. Sammy has done fairly well. He gets acupuncture treatments on a monthly schedule. He is able to walk unassisted. Most of the hard work is done with his front legs. Consequently, his neck and shoulder muscles have developed greatly. He literally climbs up stairs using the strength of his front legs.
Now, my German Shepherd 'Zack' is ailing. He's showing discomfort in his neck, possibly a strain. Friday he's going to the Vet for Acupuncture...first time. Again, I'm carrying this 'skeptical' thing in my head. Even so, I'm going to try it on him. It's an alternative to drugs. It can't hurt...
Thinking about it...I have a little pain in my shoulder...maybe I could have the Vet stick a few pins in me while I'm there....nah.....(-;
Saturday, September 24, 2011
How Much!!!!
Last Tuesday my wife and I had tickets for a Red Sox baseball night game at Fenway Park. We live about 75 miles from the park and started out a few hours early. Our plan was to dine somewhere in Boston. Maybe be lucky enough to get a booth in Jerry Remy's restaurant, close to the park.
We arrived in Boston via Storrow drive and found the parking lot we use when attending the games. I parked the car, and we walked to Fenway, about half a mile away. Earlier in the day the weather was rainy but, now as we walked to the park, it was improving. The clouds parted and the sun poked out, bright and warm. About a ten minute walk and we were there. First thing was to check out Remy's restaurant. Not good. An hour wait to get in. Plan 'B', eat once inside the park. Fenway boasts a wide variety food to please almost everyone. Hot dogs, pizza, hamburgers, sausage grinders..the list is long. This is where it got interesting. I ordered two double cheese burgers, one hot dog, an order of french fries and a bottled water. The tab was $27 dollars. To be clear, I'm not complaining about the price as much as I'm making an observation. There were only two of us, and before we reached our game seats, I had spent close to $300. $30 gas, $6 tolls, $40 parking, $27 food and $198 for two tickets. Later on, once the game was in full swing, I bought a hot chocolate. $7..this isn't a typo...hot chocolate $7.
The night game between the Sox and the Orioles was fun. We had good seats amongst an enthusiastic crowd. That's what baseball fans expect at a ball game. What many first timers won't expect is the cost to attend a game. Granted, there are many variables. Some won't spend money on tolls or use as much gasoline to get to the park. Some may not need to pay for parking. That's understandable but, what's hard to comprehend is how some poor guy can afford to bring his wife and a couple of kids to the game. They'll all want hot dogs and a coke at least. Maybe a few souvenirs.
Again, I didn't write this as a complaint. It's just an observation of what the costs is to attend a baseball game today. Oh, and by the way, the Red Sox played the Baltimore Orioles and lost at the end. Papelbon blew the save. Final score, seven to five, Orioles....that made my observation feel even worse! I'll still attend a game now and then......I'll just have to skip a mortgage payment to have enough money to attend a game.....I am being facetious....(-;
Jake T
Last Tuesday my wife and I had tickets for a Red Sox baseball night game at Fenway Park. We live about 75 miles from the park and started out a few hours early. Our plan was to dine somewhere in Boston. Maybe be lucky enough to get a booth in Jerry Remy's restaurant, close to the park.
We arrived in Boston via Storrow drive and found the parking lot we use when attending the games. I parked the car, and we walked to Fenway, about half a mile away. Earlier in the day the weather was rainy but, now as we walked to the park, it was improving. The clouds parted and the sun poked out, bright and warm. About a ten minute walk and we were there. First thing was to check out Remy's restaurant. Not good. An hour wait to get in. Plan 'B', eat once inside the park. Fenway boasts a wide variety food to please almost everyone. Hot dogs, pizza, hamburgers, sausage grinders..the list is long. This is where it got interesting. I ordered two double cheese burgers, one hot dog, an order of french fries and a bottled water. The tab was $27 dollars. To be clear, I'm not complaining about the price as much as I'm making an observation. There were only two of us, and before we reached our game seats, I had spent close to $300. $30 gas, $6 tolls, $40 parking, $27 food and $198 for two tickets. Later on, once the game was in full swing, I bought a hot chocolate. $7..this isn't a typo...hot chocolate $7.
The night game between the Sox and the Orioles was fun. We had good seats amongst an enthusiastic crowd. That's what baseball fans expect at a ball game. What many first timers won't expect is the cost to attend a game. Granted, there are many variables. Some won't spend money on tolls or use as much gasoline to get to the park. Some may not need to pay for parking. That's understandable but, what's hard to comprehend is how some poor guy can afford to bring his wife and a couple of kids to the game. They'll all want hot dogs and a coke at least. Maybe a few souvenirs.
Again, I didn't write this as a complaint. It's just an observation of what the costs is to attend a baseball game today. Oh, and by the way, the Red Sox played the Baltimore Orioles and lost at the end. Papelbon blew the save. Final score, seven to five, Orioles....that made my observation feel even worse! I'll still attend a game now and then......I'll just have to skip a mortgage payment to have enough money to attend a game.....I am being facetious....(-;
Jake T
Friday, September 23, 2011
She'll be underwater soon...
That's what I told my friend. It was't anything he didn't already know. The tide was rising fast and it was quickly becoming evident we were in big trouble. In a few more minutes, it would be too late.
The National Sea Shore is a Government protected stretch of sandy beach on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. A sanctuary for migratory birds and other critters. It's also a place vacationers use for recreation. One of which is four wheeling. If you have the required safety equipment, and pass a cursory inspection by a park ranger, you can drive your four wheel drive vehicle on the beach. We both had 'brand new' four wheel drive pickup trucks. This was our chance put them through their paces on the sand dunes. Both vehicles passed the inspection easily, having the proper safety equipment. The inspector issued to us the required permits and we were officially licensed. Time to get onto the sand dunes and do some serious driving. What could possibly go wrong?
There is a trick to driving in soft sand. Lower the pressure in the tire until it's almost flat. If you don't, you'll quickly bog down and get stuck. We dropped the tire pressures. I was the lead truck and slowly drove off the pavement onto the sand. The result was immediate. The engine labored hard to move the truck in the soft sand. I didn't need brakes. When I took my foot off the accelerator, we rolled to a stop quickly from the sand's resistance. In minutes, after adjusting to the new surface, it was time to explore the dunes. Both vehicles clawed at the soft sand to get up and down the steep dunes. Some, so far apart, it felt like we on the Sahara desert. My friend's wife shot video of our progress. At one point, we positioned the vehicles on two separate dunes so she could video the distance between the two. They looked like toys in a kid's sand box.
Not sure who's idea it was but, we decided to drive close to the water. It was similar to the ads on tv where you see a vehicle driving at the water's edge as it splashes up and over the windshield. Like I said before...what could go wrong?....Well...have you heard the saying 'Murphy's Law?'...it applied here.
I glanced into my rear view mirror and saw my friend stopped at the water's edge. Why would he stop, especially in that location? He was flashing the truck's headlights. Was he signaling me? I quickly spun my vehicle around and headed back. As I approached, it was apparent his vehicle had become stuck in the sand..not only was it stuck but, the front tire had completely separated from the rim. The truck was leaning toward the water. The waves were getting closer. Must replace the missing tire, and fast. We got out the jack and a flat board specifically used for jacking up a vehicle in soft sand. In short order the wheel was off and the replacement wheel and tire installed. The waves started splashing against us and the truck. I jumped into the driver's seat and stood on the accelerator.....nothing. It just sat there, all four wheels spinning. Time was running out and we were in trouble. She'll be underwater soon, I thought.
We'd called the Coast Guard but, they wouldn't reach us for an hour. That would be too late. Then, racing along the beach, came a jeep. It drove directly toward us, pulled up and stopped. 'what's the problem?' one of the passengers drawled, clearly intoxicated. In fact, all four were drunk. "We're stuck, can't get it out". "Let more air out", one yelled. In full panic mode we waded through the waves and dropped the air pressure even further. That was the only thing left to try at this point. I jumped into the driver's seat and stomped on the accelerator pedal. Instantly, the truck lurched forward out of the hole and away from the encroaching waves. We did it! We saved the truck from a total dunking. I looked around to thank the guys in the Jeep. They were gone, racing down the beach once again, waving and laughing..probably at the two of us, soaked and covered in wet sand. Sandy, wet and little wiser, we continued our ride that day. It really was a fun day, and exciting.
Some time later, we sat down to watch our little adventure on the video we'd shot. It would be fun to watch it for the first time. So many neat shots that we'd set up for. Up and down the dunes, the 'stuck in the sand' debacle. After we were settled in, beer and popcorn at the ready, we turned on the player.......................NO DISC IN THE CAMERA, it was empty!!
Jake T
That's what I told my friend. It was't anything he didn't already know. The tide was rising fast and it was quickly becoming evident we were in big trouble. In a few more minutes, it would be too late.
The National Sea Shore is a Government protected stretch of sandy beach on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. A sanctuary for migratory birds and other critters. It's also a place vacationers use for recreation. One of which is four wheeling. If you have the required safety equipment, and pass a cursory inspection by a park ranger, you can drive your four wheel drive vehicle on the beach. We both had 'brand new' four wheel drive pickup trucks. This was our chance put them through their paces on the sand dunes. Both vehicles passed the inspection easily, having the proper safety equipment. The inspector issued to us the required permits and we were officially licensed. Time to get onto the sand dunes and do some serious driving. What could possibly go wrong?
There is a trick to driving in soft sand. Lower the pressure in the tire until it's almost flat. If you don't, you'll quickly bog down and get stuck. We dropped the tire pressures. I was the lead truck and slowly drove off the pavement onto the sand. The result was immediate. The engine labored hard to move the truck in the soft sand. I didn't need brakes. When I took my foot off the accelerator, we rolled to a stop quickly from the sand's resistance. In minutes, after adjusting to the new surface, it was time to explore the dunes. Both vehicles clawed at the soft sand to get up and down the steep dunes. Some, so far apart, it felt like we on the Sahara desert. My friend's wife shot video of our progress. At one point, we positioned the vehicles on two separate dunes so she could video the distance between the two. They looked like toys in a kid's sand box.
Not sure who's idea it was but, we decided to drive close to the water. It was similar to the ads on tv where you see a vehicle driving at the water's edge as it splashes up and over the windshield. Like I said before...what could go wrong?....Well...have you heard the saying 'Murphy's Law?'...it applied here.
I glanced into my rear view mirror and saw my friend stopped at the water's edge. Why would he stop, especially in that location? He was flashing the truck's headlights. Was he signaling me? I quickly spun my vehicle around and headed back. As I approached, it was apparent his vehicle had become stuck in the sand..not only was it stuck but, the front tire had completely separated from the rim. The truck was leaning toward the water. The waves were getting closer. Must replace the missing tire, and fast. We got out the jack and a flat board specifically used for jacking up a vehicle in soft sand. In short order the wheel was off and the replacement wheel and tire installed. The waves started splashing against us and the truck. I jumped into the driver's seat and stood on the accelerator.....nothing. It just sat there, all four wheels spinning. Time was running out and we were in trouble. She'll be underwater soon, I thought.
We'd called the Coast Guard but, they wouldn't reach us for an hour. That would be too late. Then, racing along the beach, came a jeep. It drove directly toward us, pulled up and stopped. 'what's the problem?' one of the passengers drawled, clearly intoxicated. In fact, all four were drunk. "We're stuck, can't get it out". "Let more air out", one yelled. In full panic mode we waded through the waves and dropped the air pressure even further. That was the only thing left to try at this point. I jumped into the driver's seat and stomped on the accelerator pedal. Instantly, the truck lurched forward out of the hole and away from the encroaching waves. We did it! We saved the truck from a total dunking. I looked around to thank the guys in the Jeep. They were gone, racing down the beach once again, waving and laughing..probably at the two of us, soaked and covered in wet sand. Sandy, wet and little wiser, we continued our ride that day. It really was a fun day, and exciting.
Some time later, we sat down to watch our little adventure on the video we'd shot. It would be fun to watch it for the first time. So many neat shots that we'd set up for. Up and down the dunes, the 'stuck in the sand' debacle. After we were settled in, beer and popcorn at the ready, we turned on the player.......................NO DISC IN THE CAMERA, it was empty!!
Jake T
Friday, September 16, 2011
It was over in an instant....
The impact was severe. It happened so quick there was no time to react. One second everything was fine, the next the ground came up, close and personal. I may have blacked out for a few seconds. I didn't remember much at first, but, I did remember it hurt like Hell...
Four of us, my wife and our two friends, decided to explore an area of Cape Cod. Ten speed bikes, fast and maneuverable, were the perfect choice. Race Point, on the Cape, is an inviting place in summertime. Taking full advantage of a gorgeous sunny day seemed a good idea. So much to see and always within view of the ocean. The 'Point' is part of the National Sea Shore, on the outer Cape. It's a 40 mile stretch of sandy beach protected by the National Park Service. Migratory birds of all kinds spend time here as well as many other critters.
Paved bike paths provide an excellent way to get from one point of interest to the next, and can go on for miles. We off-loaded the bikes from the car picked a direction and headed out. It was a beautiful day, breezy with a mixture of sun and clouds. We navigated the bike path easily. Our pace was good and we traveled a good distance before coming upon an Amphitheater. It was built in a small clearing, at the bottom of a hill. Constructed in semicircular shape it had rows of bench type benches made of concrete. The bike path ran down the hill, directly toward the benches. Just before reaching them, it curved to the left, to avoid the last row, then continued on behind, and away from the theater. Pausing at the top of the hill for a few minutes, we agreed to continue down the hill and past the Amphitheater.
A minute or so before biking down the hill, it started sprinkling. Not a lot but, enough to wet everything, most importantly, the trail's dusty surface. I didn't feel this would be a problem. We've ridden in the rain before. Sonny, my friend, and I started down the hill. Trudy and Pat, our wives, would follow once we reached the bottom. I was first down the hill and gained speed quickly. Sonny, was close behind. In just a few seconds it was time to grab the brakes to slow down but, nothing happened. The brakes were wet. I squeezed them with all my strength.....nothing. My speed was increasing. In another few seconds I'd reach the curve at the bottom. I was going to fast, I'd never make it. If I continued straight, I'd crash into the cement benches, and be turned into a large pile of Jelly, not a good option. My only chance was to get away from my bike. I took one foot off the pedal, and stretched for the pavement. I pushed off hard away from the bike. In an instant I was slammed onto the pavement. Severe pain shot through me. Pressure in my neck felt like it was going to explode. All the air in my chest was gone. It felt like an eternity before I could inhale a breath. My body slid to a stop. At the same time, Sonny was dealing with the same problem. I found out later that he was able to veer off the path and crash onto the grass. He was ok. Did I forget to mention, I removed my t-shirt before starting down the hill? It wouldn't have made any difference. Slowly, I sat up, regaining my senses. First thing was to survey the damage. My chest and stomach looked like raw hamburg. Both hands and elbows severely scrapped. My knees took some damage..luckily I was wearing jeans. I had gone down flat on my chest, and it took the worst hit.
The wives quickly walked their bikes down the hill to where Sonny and I were sitting, clearly concerned about our conditions. After reassuring them that we were able to get up and move about, we painfully made our way back to the car, loaded the bikes on and returned to our motel. I didn't get medical attention. I felt I could take care of myself...after all, what would the hospital do that I couldn't? I didn't need stitches, no broken bones. I just needed to prevent any infection. That night was and I shivered incessantly, probably from partial shock. The wounds started to dry and begin the healing process, I was in agony. My skin felt like it was crawling. I tried applying soothing lotion to the wounds but, it was too painful. The next morning we left the Cape and returned home.
A few days later, I returned to work. One of my friends, a Doctor of Sports Medicine, asked why I looked uncomfortable. When I told him my story and showed him the injuries, he smiled and said, ' You're lucky..if you had a t-shirt on it would cost money to replace...skin grows back for free!' it was clear I wasn't getting any sympathy from him.
In a few weeks, my wounds healed completely. I would ride again but, not in the rain. I like to know I can STOP when I want too.....
Jake T
The impact was severe. It happened so quick there was no time to react. One second everything was fine, the next the ground came up, close and personal. I may have blacked out for a few seconds. I didn't remember much at first, but, I did remember it hurt like Hell...
Four of us, my wife and our two friends, decided to explore an area of Cape Cod. Ten speed bikes, fast and maneuverable, were the perfect choice. Race Point, on the Cape, is an inviting place in summertime. Taking full advantage of a gorgeous sunny day seemed a good idea. So much to see and always within view of the ocean. The 'Point' is part of the National Sea Shore, on the outer Cape. It's a 40 mile stretch of sandy beach protected by the National Park Service. Migratory birds of all kinds spend time here as well as many other critters.
Paved bike paths provide an excellent way to get from one point of interest to the next, and can go on for miles. We off-loaded the bikes from the car picked a direction and headed out. It was a beautiful day, breezy with a mixture of sun and clouds. We navigated the bike path easily. Our pace was good and we traveled a good distance before coming upon an Amphitheater. It was built in a small clearing, at the bottom of a hill. Constructed in semicircular shape it had rows of bench type benches made of concrete. The bike path ran down the hill, directly toward the benches. Just before reaching them, it curved to the left, to avoid the last row, then continued on behind, and away from the theater. Pausing at the top of the hill for a few minutes, we agreed to continue down the hill and past the Amphitheater.
A minute or so before biking down the hill, it started sprinkling. Not a lot but, enough to wet everything, most importantly, the trail's dusty surface. I didn't feel this would be a problem. We've ridden in the rain before. Sonny, my friend, and I started down the hill. Trudy and Pat, our wives, would follow once we reached the bottom. I was first down the hill and gained speed quickly. Sonny, was close behind. In just a few seconds it was time to grab the brakes to slow down but, nothing happened. The brakes were wet. I squeezed them with all my strength.....nothing. My speed was increasing. In another few seconds I'd reach the curve at the bottom. I was going to fast, I'd never make it. If I continued straight, I'd crash into the cement benches, and be turned into a large pile of Jelly, not a good option. My only chance was to get away from my bike. I took one foot off the pedal, and stretched for the pavement. I pushed off hard away from the bike. In an instant I was slammed onto the pavement. Severe pain shot through me. Pressure in my neck felt like it was going to explode. All the air in my chest was gone. It felt like an eternity before I could inhale a breath. My body slid to a stop. At the same time, Sonny was dealing with the same problem. I found out later that he was able to veer off the path and crash onto the grass. He was ok. Did I forget to mention, I removed my t-shirt before starting down the hill? It wouldn't have made any difference. Slowly, I sat up, regaining my senses. First thing was to survey the damage. My chest and stomach looked like raw hamburg. Both hands and elbows severely scrapped. My knees took some damage..luckily I was wearing jeans. I had gone down flat on my chest, and it took the worst hit.
The wives quickly walked their bikes down the hill to where Sonny and I were sitting, clearly concerned about our conditions. After reassuring them that we were able to get up and move about, we painfully made our way back to the car, loaded the bikes on and returned to our motel. I didn't get medical attention. I felt I could take care of myself...after all, what would the hospital do that I couldn't? I didn't need stitches, no broken bones. I just needed to prevent any infection. That night was and I shivered incessantly, probably from partial shock. The wounds started to dry and begin the healing process, I was in agony. My skin felt like it was crawling. I tried applying soothing lotion to the wounds but, it was too painful. The next morning we left the Cape and returned home.
A few days later, I returned to work. One of my friends, a Doctor of Sports Medicine, asked why I looked uncomfortable. When I told him my story and showed him the injuries, he smiled and said, ' You're lucky..if you had a t-shirt on it would cost money to replace...skin grows back for free!' it was clear I wasn't getting any sympathy from him.
In a few weeks, my wounds healed completely. I would ride again but, not in the rain. I like to know I can STOP when I want too.....
Jake T
Monday, September 12, 2011
It was supposed to be a fun day....
We were on the 'Yankee', a 60' fishing boat, heading out of Harwich port on Cape Cod. She's carrying a large number of fishermen, including my friend Sonny and me. We're hoping to enjoy about five hours of deep sea fishing. Neither of us has much experience but, there can't be much to it. Just hang your line over the side and wait for a bite. If you run into a problem, the deck hands are there. They can bait a hook for the squeamish or cut away tangled lines. The entire crew consists of the Captain and two deck hands.
Having cast off, the Yankee heads out from the protection of the Marina. She heads for deeper water. The weather is not good. Clouds and a stiff breeze blowing makes for a lot of 'chop'....small waves but, coming in all directions. Motoring out from the protection of the harbor the waves grow larger. The Yankee slices through them with ease. The up and down motion of the Yankee's bow plowing through the waves is exciting.....at first. People are busy getting their fishing gear ready. The deck hands are helping with baiting hooks and giving instructions to those that need them. Others are finding their spot along the gunnel so they can start fishing. After a long time and a long way from shore, the Captain announces that we are approaching a good fishing area. He throttles back the engines and circles a large area for a few minutes. Then suddenly, he kills the engines. We're adrift. Now things will get interesting.
Lots of chatter and excitement, no one notices the boat has stopped and is starting to 'rock and roll'. Many begin opening coolers and drinking their first beer...others start munching on sandwiches. My friend and I have dropped our lines over the side and are concentrating on our fishing poles and hoping for a bite. People moving to and from the concession bar. A few kids running around the deck.
Then it starts. Gradually at first. One here. One there. People start to turn a pale shade of green. The enthusiasm has waned and the smiles are gone. Not many are talking. Can sea sickness be far off? Answer..NO...within a few minutes this happy fishing boat has turned into a large bunch of sea sick individuals. No one is interested in fishing any more. The constant undulating Yankee has put an end to that. The only one seemingly unaffected is Sonny. He's holding onto the gunnel with one hand, and fishing with the other. Meanwhile I'm beginning feeling that awful sensation. The boat's rolling action is having it's effect on me also. I feel small waves of nausea creeping in. I'm swallowing hard and often. I'm a sailor and have never been sea sick. I can't imagine spending the next five hours, before returning to port, being sea sick. With much effort I manage to get the nausea under control. After a while I manage to shake it off. I'm feeling much better. I turn my attention back to fishing. Others are not so lucky. The boat's bathroom is a disaster..you can use your imagination on that one..people are lying about the deck or hanging over the gunnel. Even the doorway into the boat's galley is blocked by a crumpled up individual to sick to move. The fun day, that was supposed to be a day of deep sea fishing, has turned into a 'hurry up and get us back to shore', OR 'if we stay out another minute, I'd rather die'!
The weather hasn't let up. Many pleas from passengers finally convince the captain to head back in early. Once under way the sickening motion is gone. The Yankee plows through the rough seas with ease. Eventually we reach the relative calm of the Marina's harbor. People begin returning to normal, regaining their composure. Once we reach the dock...they can't get off the Yankee fast enough. Solid ground feels so good. Sonny and I Managed to catch some nice fish and once my stomach settles down....I'm going out for a steak...oh, did I forget to mention...I don't eat fish. Never have. I can't explain why I went out fishing in the first place.
I know one thing...I'm so happy I don't have to clean that boat!!
We were on the 'Yankee', a 60' fishing boat, heading out of Harwich port on Cape Cod. She's carrying a large number of fishermen, including my friend Sonny and me. We're hoping to enjoy about five hours of deep sea fishing. Neither of us has much experience but, there can't be much to it. Just hang your line over the side and wait for a bite. If you run into a problem, the deck hands are there. They can bait a hook for the squeamish or cut away tangled lines. The entire crew consists of the Captain and two deck hands.
Having cast off, the Yankee heads out from the protection of the Marina. She heads for deeper water. The weather is not good. Clouds and a stiff breeze blowing makes for a lot of 'chop'....small waves but, coming in all directions. Motoring out from the protection of the harbor the waves grow larger. The Yankee slices through them with ease. The up and down motion of the Yankee's bow plowing through the waves is exciting.....at first. People are busy getting their fishing gear ready. The deck hands are helping with baiting hooks and giving instructions to those that need them. Others are finding their spot along the gunnel so they can start fishing. After a long time and a long way from shore, the Captain announces that we are approaching a good fishing area. He throttles back the engines and circles a large area for a few minutes. Then suddenly, he kills the engines. We're adrift. Now things will get interesting.
Lots of chatter and excitement, no one notices the boat has stopped and is starting to 'rock and roll'. Many begin opening coolers and drinking their first beer...others start munching on sandwiches. My friend and I have dropped our lines over the side and are concentrating on our fishing poles and hoping for a bite. People moving to and from the concession bar. A few kids running around the deck.
Then it starts. Gradually at first. One here. One there. People start to turn a pale shade of green. The enthusiasm has waned and the smiles are gone. Not many are talking. Can sea sickness be far off? Answer..NO...within a few minutes this happy fishing boat has turned into a large bunch of sea sick individuals. No one is interested in fishing any more. The constant undulating Yankee has put an end to that. The only one seemingly unaffected is Sonny. He's holding onto the gunnel with one hand, and fishing with the other. Meanwhile I'm beginning feeling that awful sensation. The boat's rolling action is having it's effect on me also. I feel small waves of nausea creeping in. I'm swallowing hard and often. I'm a sailor and have never been sea sick. I can't imagine spending the next five hours, before returning to port, being sea sick. With much effort I manage to get the nausea under control. After a while I manage to shake it off. I'm feeling much better. I turn my attention back to fishing. Others are not so lucky. The boat's bathroom is a disaster..you can use your imagination on that one..people are lying about the deck or hanging over the gunnel. Even the doorway into the boat's galley is blocked by a crumpled up individual to sick to move. The fun day, that was supposed to be a day of deep sea fishing, has turned into a 'hurry up and get us back to shore', OR 'if we stay out another minute, I'd rather die'!
The weather hasn't let up. Many pleas from passengers finally convince the captain to head back in early. Once under way the sickening motion is gone. The Yankee plows through the rough seas with ease. Eventually we reach the relative calm of the Marina's harbor. People begin returning to normal, regaining their composure. Once we reach the dock...they can't get off the Yankee fast enough. Solid ground feels so good. Sonny and I Managed to catch some nice fish and once my stomach settles down....I'm going out for a steak...oh, did I forget to mention...I don't eat fish. Never have. I can't explain why I went out fishing in the first place.
I know one thing...I'm so happy I don't have to clean that boat!!
Friday, September 2, 2011
That night on the mountain...
It could only happen to me. Me, the guy who is always prepared for anything. Always planning ahead for any contingency. Do I have enough gas..is the oil level correct? Do I have a first aid kit? The list goes on and on. My rationale is...nothing can go wrong, if I plan ahead..right? Well...here I am..It's night time, I'm on the top of a mountain in the middle of the wilderness. It's so dark I can't see more than a few feet in any direction. The snow is 3 feet deep, and I'm getting cold.
It just stopped running. One minute I'm speeding down this winding trail, the next, I'm sitting here in the dark, stuck. The red taillight from my wife's snowmobile fading into the darkness. I'm the last rider in a group of riders out for an evening cruise over the mountain. it's dead quiet and and the sky inky black. I have no idea where I am.
It's the town of Old Forge located in the Adirondack mountains of New York state. And we arrived a day earlier. During the long winter months this small town changes into a snowmobiler's paradise. Car traffic virtually ceases and all roads are open to snowmobile traffic. The population increases from a few hundred to more than three thousand, on any given weekend. Everyone rides a snowmobile even the police. If you go to the movies, a restaurant or to work, it's all on snowmobiles. Venture out of town,
there are countless trails leading into the mountains. A massive frozen lake where you can pin the speedometer needle to full travel. It's a fun place for all.
We arrived here from Massachusetts, a group of us. A caravan of trucks with trailers. I was carrying two machines in my pickup truck and two more on a trailer I was hauling.The other vehicles doing the same. It's was during the gas crunch back in the 70's. Gas was scarce and fearing we wouldn't have enough to supply our machines, we hauled gasoline in Fifty-five gallon drums. Looking back..not the best decision we ever made but, when you're young you're invincible. We registered at the motel then rode our machines up to the front door of our room and parked. We would dine out then go for our first ride. Tonight would be an adventure.
I waited in the dark for what seemed like an eternity. It was probably wasn't more than five minutes. It's amazing how your mind starts playing tricks on you. What was that cracking noise..did something just growl nearby? Don't get me wrong..I'm not afraid of the dark but, I didn't relish the possibility of being a hungry bear's evening meal. After all, I'm a city guy at heart. Who knows what the hell is out here! Thinking quickly, I rummaged around in my tool kit and found a flashlight. With one eye watching for 'that' bear lurking in the darkness and the other on engine problem, I finally found it. Continuous vibration had loosen the engine mount bolts. The engine had moved so much from the constant jarring, that it had damaged an electrical wire, causing the engine to quit. All the while I was making the repair I kept thinking..maybe someone would realize I wasn't with the group any longer and come back for me. Well....that never happened. Thirty minutes later, repairs done, I fired up my machine and hurried off the mountain. Didn't look back once..well, maybe once.. When I arrived, everyone was talking and having a fun time...now they could have a laugh at my expense. I didn't mind...I wouldn't be any critter's snack this evening...I felt good about that!!
Jake T
It could only happen to me. Me, the guy who is always prepared for anything. Always planning ahead for any contingency. Do I have enough gas..is the oil level correct? Do I have a first aid kit? The list goes on and on. My rationale is...nothing can go wrong, if I plan ahead..right? Well...here I am..It's night time, I'm on the top of a mountain in the middle of the wilderness. It's so dark I can't see more than a few feet in any direction. The snow is 3 feet deep, and I'm getting cold.
It just stopped running. One minute I'm speeding down this winding trail, the next, I'm sitting here in the dark, stuck. The red taillight from my wife's snowmobile fading into the darkness. I'm the last rider in a group of riders out for an evening cruise over the mountain. it's dead quiet and and the sky inky black. I have no idea where I am.
It's the town of Old Forge located in the Adirondack mountains of New York state. And we arrived a day earlier. During the long winter months this small town changes into a snowmobiler's paradise. Car traffic virtually ceases and all roads are open to snowmobile traffic. The population increases from a few hundred to more than three thousand, on any given weekend. Everyone rides a snowmobile even the police. If you go to the movies, a restaurant or to work, it's all on snowmobiles. Venture out of town,
there are countless trails leading into the mountains. A massive frozen lake where you can pin the speedometer needle to full travel. It's a fun place for all.
We arrived here from Massachusetts, a group of us. A caravan of trucks with trailers. I was carrying two machines in my pickup truck and two more on a trailer I was hauling.The other vehicles doing the same. It's was during the gas crunch back in the 70's. Gas was scarce and fearing we wouldn't have enough to supply our machines, we hauled gasoline in Fifty-five gallon drums. Looking back..not the best decision we ever made but, when you're young you're invincible. We registered at the motel then rode our machines up to the front door of our room and parked. We would dine out then go for our first ride. Tonight would be an adventure.
I waited in the dark for what seemed like an eternity. It was probably wasn't more than five minutes. It's amazing how your mind starts playing tricks on you. What was that cracking noise..did something just growl nearby? Don't get me wrong..I'm not afraid of the dark but, I didn't relish the possibility of being a hungry bear's evening meal. After all, I'm a city guy at heart. Who knows what the hell is out here! Thinking quickly, I rummaged around in my tool kit and found a flashlight. With one eye watching for 'that' bear lurking in the darkness and the other on engine problem, I finally found it. Continuous vibration had loosen the engine mount bolts. The engine had moved so much from the constant jarring, that it had damaged an electrical wire, causing the engine to quit. All the while I was making the repair I kept thinking..maybe someone would realize I wasn't with the group any longer and come back for me. Well....that never happened. Thirty minutes later, repairs done, I fired up my machine and hurried off the mountain. Didn't look back once..well, maybe once.. When I arrived, everyone was talking and having a fun time...now they could have a laugh at my expense. I didn't mind...I wouldn't be any critter's snack this evening...I felt good about that!!
Jake T
Thursday, September 1, 2011
The 'glint' caught our attention...
We could see it from a long distance. The glint is what first caught our attention. My cousin Hollis and I were sailing my 19 foot Day Sailer, 'Paula T', a few miles off Cape Cod. We weren't sure what it was at first. The constant undulating wave action combined with bright sunlight reeked havoc on our eyes. The wind blowing out of the south west made for fast sailing. We decided to investigate.
As we approached, it became clear we were looking at an overturned 16' Catamaran. It had capsized or 'turtled'. The white hulls gleaming in the sun, dagger boards pointed skyward. Two very tired sailors in the water desperately trying to hold onto the smooth hulls. There was nothing else to grab onto. The rigging and sails were completely submerged. We attempted to sail in close without ramming the catamaran or the distressed sailors and causing more damage or injury.
We 'tacked' up close but, the wind was so strong, it was impossible to get a hand hold on the Cat. I had to let my boat fall away..let the wind take her, then make another attempt. No matter how many tries we made, the wind was too strong. Hollis and I talked it over and we decided I would go overboard into the fray. Hollis would remain on the 'Paula T' and stay in close to assist. He tacked back and forth ready to drag us onboard. It would prove impossible. The conditions were too chaotic. I swam to the distressed sailors who were by now worn and weary from the constant battering by the elements. They were wearing life jackets, a good thing considering the adverse conditions.
After a quick assessment I dove under the submerged trampoline deck and struggled to disconnected the main mast pipe. It would float on it's own. This would allow the three of us to swim / push the 'Cat' close into shallower water without dragging on the bottom when reaching shallower water. The wind blowing directly toward shore, worked in our favor by moving us closer into the beach. After much swimming and pushing, we found purchase of the sandy bottom. Slowly, methodically, we pushed her the remaining distance to the beach. We wrestled the hulls upright and gathered up the tangled rigging and sails. After a brief exchange of words and gratitude, I said 'see ya' to the two very tired sailors and waded out into deeper water. Hollis expertly swung the boat around and headed towards me. At the last instant he turned her up into the wind, slowing the boat down briefly. I grabbed on and threw myself in. She tacked into the wind and we took off like being shot out of a cannon. It would be another of our Cape Cod stories that we would talk about, laugh about and tell over and over for a lifetime. However, there is footnote to this story.
As we sailed up to the overturned Catamaran one of the men in the water began lecturing 'us' on how and what direction we should approach from. This, with the wind blowing and waves rolling over the two men. I reminded him that 'he' was in the water needing rescue and 'we' were in the boat rescuing him. Later on, having reached the safety of the shore, I discovered they were father and son. The 'Cat' was a rental and they had nil sailing experience. Having said that, if it were to happen again, Hollis and I would head out to the rescue all over again. We did leave them on Monomoy island with a dismantled catamaran....that was worth a chuckle.
Jake T
We could see it from a long distance. The glint is what first caught our attention. My cousin Hollis and I were sailing my 19 foot Day Sailer, 'Paula T', a few miles off Cape Cod. We weren't sure what it was at first. The constant undulating wave action combined with bright sunlight reeked havoc on our eyes. The wind blowing out of the south west made for fast sailing. We decided to investigate.
As we approached, it became clear we were looking at an overturned 16' Catamaran. It had capsized or 'turtled'. The white hulls gleaming in the sun, dagger boards pointed skyward. Two very tired sailors in the water desperately trying to hold onto the smooth hulls. There was nothing else to grab onto. The rigging and sails were completely submerged. We attempted to sail in close without ramming the catamaran or the distressed sailors and causing more damage or injury.
We 'tacked' up close but, the wind was so strong, it was impossible to get a hand hold on the Cat. I had to let my boat fall away..let the wind take her, then make another attempt. No matter how many tries we made, the wind was too strong. Hollis and I talked it over and we decided I would go overboard into the fray. Hollis would remain on the 'Paula T' and stay in close to assist. He tacked back and forth ready to drag us onboard. It would prove impossible. The conditions were too chaotic. I swam to the distressed sailors who were by now worn and weary from the constant battering by the elements. They were wearing life jackets, a good thing considering the adverse conditions.
After a quick assessment I dove under the submerged trampoline deck and struggled to disconnected the main mast pipe. It would float on it's own. This would allow the three of us to swim / push the 'Cat' close into shallower water without dragging on the bottom when reaching shallower water. The wind blowing directly toward shore, worked in our favor by moving us closer into the beach. After much swimming and pushing, we found purchase of the sandy bottom. Slowly, methodically, we pushed her the remaining distance to the beach. We wrestled the hulls upright and gathered up the tangled rigging and sails. After a brief exchange of words and gratitude, I said 'see ya' to the two very tired sailors and waded out into deeper water. Hollis expertly swung the boat around and headed towards me. At the last instant he turned her up into the wind, slowing the boat down briefly. I grabbed on and threw myself in. She tacked into the wind and we took off like being shot out of a cannon. It would be another of our Cape Cod stories that we would talk about, laugh about and tell over and over for a lifetime. However, there is footnote to this story.
As we sailed up to the overturned Catamaran one of the men in the water began lecturing 'us' on how and what direction we should approach from. This, with the wind blowing and waves rolling over the two men. I reminded him that 'he' was in the water needing rescue and 'we' were in the boat rescuing him. Later on, having reached the safety of the shore, I discovered they were father and son. The 'Cat' was a rental and they had nil sailing experience. Having said that, if it were to happen again, Hollis and I would head out to the rescue all over again. We did leave them on Monomoy island with a dismantled catamaran....that was worth a chuckle.
Jake T
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
The Greatest Dog......
Some one once asked how I came up with the 'Jake T', blogger name. It's very simple really. About twenty years ago, I was the in the market for a new puppy. I'm a hard core animal lover. Can't remember ever being with out a dog. When I was a little kid, living in a third floor apartment, we had a dog, 'Stubby'. He was a Toy Fox Terrier and I thought he liked me, until one morning he snapped at me. He was sleeping and I must have startled him. So this was my first experience with a 'dog'. It didn't do any real damage, more to my pride than anything else. I never told my parents and Stubby and I kept the secret. Dogs would rule for me the rest of my life.
The years have passes. I've had several dogs since Stubby. I'm a married guy now and it's time for a puppy. I find a reputable breeder and visit there. In the pen are 10 puppies, Just a mass of undulating puppy fur. I climb in and sit quietly. I know what I'm looking for. Sure enough, after a long wait, it happens. Out of the furry mass comes one puppy, straight for me. He's the one I observed to be the 'middle of the pack'. Not the most active but, by no means, the quietest. He greeted me with a lick and climbed onto my lap. He's the one..there is no doubt! I took him home with me that day. We bonded quickly and were inseparable, this is according to my wife. He was now part of our family.
I named him 'Jake', and he turned out to be one of the best.....no..THE best dog I have ever owned. He was extremely loyal and very smart. To the casual observer he appeared friendly but, aloof. To our family he was playful and attentive. Wonderful protector. I decided to obedience train him. After a short period of training we entered our first obedience trial. He made it look easy. Whether I used voice commands or hand signals, he obeyed without hesitation. We competed for the next several years all over the state and took home many awards. I was so proud of him. It was a time of closeness between a man and his dog. Only a person that has owned a pet can relate to this feeling.
Years have passed now. I retired Jake from competition. He's 13 now. Not feeling well. He's at the Vet. often but, there is not much she can can do for him. The 'age' is there and I'm wrestling with the decision every pet lover eventually has to make. This is the most difficult time, when owning a pet. The time, when after so many years of love and nurturing, we must let go. It tears at the heart..how awfully hard this is. I can't do it. I won't do it...I must do it..Afterwards, it takes a long time to heal but, I will never forget.
Guess I haven't answered the question of how 'Jake T' came to be my blogger name. Well, I took his name 'Jake' and added the 'T' from our families last name. He carried It with pride. It suited him.
Today, I have another German Shepherd. His name is Zack. That may sound a little familiar to my blogger friends. Zack3439 is also part of my blogger identity. The numbers 3439 are from two cars own. A '34 and a '39 respectively. Zack has all the qualities Jake had. Smart, loyal and a good friend. He's won my heart. Hope he's with me for a while. Just can't be without a dog. Dogs 'rule'...
Jake T
Some one once asked how I came up with the 'Jake T', blogger name. It's very simple really. About twenty years ago, I was the in the market for a new puppy. I'm a hard core animal lover. Can't remember ever being with out a dog. When I was a little kid, living in a third floor apartment, we had a dog, 'Stubby'. He was a Toy Fox Terrier and I thought he liked me, until one morning he snapped at me. He was sleeping and I must have startled him. So this was my first experience with a 'dog'. It didn't do any real damage, more to my pride than anything else. I never told my parents and Stubby and I kept the secret. Dogs would rule for me the rest of my life.
The years have passes. I've had several dogs since Stubby. I'm a married guy now and it's time for a puppy. I find a reputable breeder and visit there. In the pen are 10 puppies, Just a mass of undulating puppy fur. I climb in and sit quietly. I know what I'm looking for. Sure enough, after a long wait, it happens. Out of the furry mass comes one puppy, straight for me. He's the one I observed to be the 'middle of the pack'. Not the most active but, by no means, the quietest. He greeted me with a lick and climbed onto my lap. He's the one..there is no doubt! I took him home with me that day. We bonded quickly and were inseparable, this is according to my wife. He was now part of our family.
I named him 'Jake', and he turned out to be one of the best.....no..THE best dog I have ever owned. He was extremely loyal and very smart. To the casual observer he appeared friendly but, aloof. To our family he was playful and attentive. Wonderful protector. I decided to obedience train him. After a short period of training we entered our first obedience trial. He made it look easy. Whether I used voice commands or hand signals, he obeyed without hesitation. We competed for the next several years all over the state and took home many awards. I was so proud of him. It was a time of closeness between a man and his dog. Only a person that has owned a pet can relate to this feeling.
Years have passed now. I retired Jake from competition. He's 13 now. Not feeling well. He's at the Vet. often but, there is not much she can can do for him. The 'age' is there and I'm wrestling with the decision every pet lover eventually has to make. This is the most difficult time, when owning a pet. The time, when after so many years of love and nurturing, we must let go. It tears at the heart..how awfully hard this is. I can't do it. I won't do it...I must do it..Afterwards, it takes a long time to heal but, I will never forget.
Guess I haven't answered the question of how 'Jake T' came to be my blogger name. Well, I took his name 'Jake' and added the 'T' from our families last name. He carried It with pride. It suited him.
Today, I have another German Shepherd. His name is Zack. That may sound a little familiar to my blogger friends. Zack3439 is also part of my blogger identity. The numbers 3439 are from two cars own. A '34 and a '39 respectively. Zack has all the qualities Jake had. Smart, loyal and a good friend. He's won my heart. Hope he's with me for a while. Just can't be without a dog. Dogs 'rule'...
Jake T
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Cape Cod Adventure....
For more than twenty years our family has rented a small cottage on Cape Cod in South Chatham. The cottage is only 60 feet or so from the water's edge. The warm sun soaked beach and ever present breezes are a welcome change from the stifling weather we left inland. Sun tan, bleached hair and great memories are the perks we'll take back home. This year is no different. We've been vacationing for nearly two weeks now. My sailboat, a 21' sloop the 'Paula T' named after my daughter, is moored in shallow water about 50 yards off shore. We've sailed it almost everyday since arriving. One of the most enjoyable pleasures is ocean sailing. Now it's early evening and the sun is low in the sky. Time to return to the mooring and tie her off for the night. Not owning a dinghy, I grudgingly jump over the side. I wade back to shore, the whole time, mumbling under my breath. I'll explain why later. The water is shallow at low tide. I reach the beach quickly, and head back to the cottage. Everyone will be getting ready to dine out this evening.
Tonight, as is the norm, we head out to find a new restaurant, preferably one we haven't tried yet. Sea food is a prerequisite for everyone except me. I don't eat anything that swims, crawls or floats on the ocean. You could say, with certainty, I'm not a fish eater..If it moos and has hooves, I'll eat it. With a little luck, I always find something on the menu. After an enjoyable dinner and good conversation, we head back to the cottage. Often times, an evening walk on an empty beach is a good way to end the perfect day but, this night will be different.
It's an inky dark night. The moon is small, distant in the the sky. It's reflection cast across a large expanse of black ocean, flat and eerie. The only sounds, tiny waves pushing onto a quiet beach. The ever present breeze, strangely absent. It's dead calm. As I walk past our cottage, I reach the open expanse beach. Something's amiss, out of place. The tide is ebbing and the small boats moored in the area all face same direction. Their bows facing toward shore. It hits me with a jolt of adrenaline. The Paula T is strangely out of place. She should be pointing in the same direction as the other boats. Instead her broadside is toward shore and she is slowly moving away from the rest in an easterly direction. I had moored her 50 yards off shore and now she's moving! It's difficult to see, dark..erie, deathly quiet. The sails are down, the motor is off. I begin running along the beach trying to keep up. Is someone on board trying to sail her away? I can't see, can't hear anything..so quiet..so dark. And now the light on the mast top is flashing on and off like it's signaling. Someone must be onboard.
I must confess something. I'm not a big fan of swimming in the ocean. Most often, it's too cold, too salty and I don't like the crabs that are all over the bottom nibbling on my toes. Honestly, I love sailing on the ocean but, swimming in it, not so much. Now I have my boat sailing away without me. Need to make a decision, and quick. Do I jump in after it or let it continue moving away and hope it'll eventually run aground? I begin running along the water's edge, trying to keep up. I keep up for a while but, I'm running out of beach and most importantly, breath. Between the exertion of running through the sand and the adrenaline..I'm wearing down quickly.
I'm fully clothed. I start wading in...must be quick...it's moving quickly. Got to catch up to it? Man, this water is cold and black..like ink. I'm NOT liking this at all. Water up to my waist now. I have to push back the fear welling up inside. I'm getting closer. A little farther and maybe I'll be able to grab on. The water closing over my shoulders. I start swimming as hard as I can. Finally, and with much effort, I reach it and climb aboard. I'm dripping wet and breathing heavily but, I made it.
A quick look around reveals an empty boat. The hatch still closed and everything seems undisturbed. I look toward shore see family members are calling to me. Their voices are swallowed up before they reach me. We are no more than 100 feet apart but, I can't hear what they're saying. Sounds not reaching me from shore. Later I discovered they couldn't hear me either. A strange phenomenon for sure. After regaining my composure I try starting the outboard motor..it starts. Quickly, I grab the rudder and steer toward shore. Soon, I beach the Paula T and everyone gathers around, curious about what caused this strange event.
So what really happened....? Got up the next morning, I waded out to the mooring and quickly found the answer I was looking for. A week earlier I purchased a mooring fitting from a local marina. I mistakenly bought an incorrect one for salt water use. Within a week the sea corroded it, and it failed. The boat no longer secured to the mooring, simply began drifting away, pushed by a small current. Purely by chance I arrived at the beach as she broke free. A few minutes earlier and she would have drifted out of sight. The flashing light on top of the mast? It was moon light reflecting off the chrome mast top. The slight rocking of the boat caused it appear as a blinking light.
Mystery solved but, it made for an exciting night on Cap Cod. We all had a good laugh. Years later, we still talk about it. A story I'll be able to tell the next generation for sure....that one eerie night on Cape Cod.
For more than twenty years our family has rented a small cottage on Cape Cod in South Chatham. The cottage is only 60 feet or so from the water's edge. The warm sun soaked beach and ever present breezes are a welcome change from the stifling weather we left inland. Sun tan, bleached hair and great memories are the perks we'll take back home. This year is no different. We've been vacationing for nearly two weeks now. My sailboat, a 21' sloop the 'Paula T' named after my daughter, is moored in shallow water about 50 yards off shore. We've sailed it almost everyday since arriving. One of the most enjoyable pleasures is ocean sailing. Now it's early evening and the sun is low in the sky. Time to return to the mooring and tie her off for the night. Not owning a dinghy, I grudgingly jump over the side. I wade back to shore, the whole time, mumbling under my breath. I'll explain why later. The water is shallow at low tide. I reach the beach quickly, and head back to the cottage. Everyone will be getting ready to dine out this evening.
Tonight, as is the norm, we head out to find a new restaurant, preferably one we haven't tried yet. Sea food is a prerequisite for everyone except me. I don't eat anything that swims, crawls or floats on the ocean. You could say, with certainty, I'm not a fish eater..If it moos and has hooves, I'll eat it. With a little luck, I always find something on the menu. After an enjoyable dinner and good conversation, we head back to the cottage. Often times, an evening walk on an empty beach is a good way to end the perfect day but, this night will be different.
It's an inky dark night. The moon is small, distant in the the sky. It's reflection cast across a large expanse of black ocean, flat and eerie. The only sounds, tiny waves pushing onto a quiet beach. The ever present breeze, strangely absent. It's dead calm. As I walk past our cottage, I reach the open expanse beach. Something's amiss, out of place. The tide is ebbing and the small boats moored in the area all face same direction. Their bows facing toward shore. It hits me with a jolt of adrenaline. The Paula T is strangely out of place. She should be pointing in the same direction as the other boats. Instead her broadside is toward shore and she is slowly moving away from the rest in an easterly direction. I had moored her 50 yards off shore and now she's moving! It's difficult to see, dark..erie, deathly quiet. The sails are down, the motor is off. I begin running along the beach trying to keep up. Is someone on board trying to sail her away? I can't see, can't hear anything..so quiet..so dark. And now the light on the mast top is flashing on and off like it's signaling. Someone must be onboard.
I must confess something. I'm not a big fan of swimming in the ocean. Most often, it's too cold, too salty and I don't like the crabs that are all over the bottom nibbling on my toes. Honestly, I love sailing on the ocean but, swimming in it, not so much. Now I have my boat sailing away without me. Need to make a decision, and quick. Do I jump in after it or let it continue moving away and hope it'll eventually run aground? I begin running along the water's edge, trying to keep up. I keep up for a while but, I'm running out of beach and most importantly, breath. Between the exertion of running through the sand and the adrenaline..I'm wearing down quickly.
I'm fully clothed. I start wading in...must be quick...it's moving quickly. Got to catch up to it? Man, this water is cold and black..like ink. I'm NOT liking this at all. Water up to my waist now. I have to push back the fear welling up inside. I'm getting closer. A little farther and maybe I'll be able to grab on. The water closing over my shoulders. I start swimming as hard as I can. Finally, and with much effort, I reach it and climb aboard. I'm dripping wet and breathing heavily but, I made it.
A quick look around reveals an empty boat. The hatch still closed and everything seems undisturbed. I look toward shore see family members are calling to me. Their voices are swallowed up before they reach me. We are no more than 100 feet apart but, I can't hear what they're saying. Sounds not reaching me from shore. Later I discovered they couldn't hear me either. A strange phenomenon for sure. After regaining my composure I try starting the outboard motor..it starts. Quickly, I grab the rudder and steer toward shore. Soon, I beach the Paula T and everyone gathers around, curious about what caused this strange event.
So what really happened....? Got up the next morning, I waded out to the mooring and quickly found the answer I was looking for. A week earlier I purchased a mooring fitting from a local marina. I mistakenly bought an incorrect one for salt water use. Within a week the sea corroded it, and it failed. The boat no longer secured to the mooring, simply began drifting away, pushed by a small current. Purely by chance I arrived at the beach as she broke free. A few minutes earlier and she would have drifted out of sight. The flashing light on top of the mast? It was moon light reflecting off the chrome mast top. The slight rocking of the boat caused it appear as a blinking light.
Mystery solved but, it made for an exciting night on Cap Cod. We all had a good laugh. Years later, we still talk about it. A story I'll be able to tell the next generation for sure....that one eerie night on Cape Cod.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
My Italian Family...
When I was an eight year old kid I lived in the city, in an Italian neighborhood. My home was on the third floor of my Grandpa's house. Life was good then, after all, what did an eight year old boy have to worry about. My dad worked for the Indian Motorcycle company and my mother was a stay at home mom. I got three squares a day and a roof over my head. I roamed the neighborhood and played with the other kids. The summers lasted forever.
From the third floor I could look down into the backyard. Not very large but, back then everything looked larger than when revisited as an adult. In the yard was a large barn. It was a home for a draft horse. I don't remember the horse's name. My 'Pa' as we called him, ran an ice business and the horse hauled the wagon ladened with ice blocks to customers all around the city. I remember as a kid, going to a local frozen pond with my father. We'd cut blocks of ice from it using a large hand saw, haul the ice to my uncle's ice house near by, and store it. One day the draft horse was killed in a fire and soon after the ice business went the way of the dinosaur. The modern refrigerator had replaced the ice box.
Next to the barn was a one car garage, so narrow that once a car was parked inside, it was nearly impossible to get out of the car. The remainder of the backyard was covered in grape vines. Every year they would grow to maturity and the whole yard was permeated with the sweet aroma of grapes. It was wonderful. Behind the barn and garage was a vegetable garden. This was Pas' crowning achievement and he tended it with great care. Everything was perfect. Rows of tomatoes, peppers, beans, corn and other things filled every square inch of the garden. Not a weed in sight. Every row, ram rod straight. Every plant pinched back. When it was time to harvest, he'd open the gate and escort Toni and me in. (Toni was my cousin and lived on the second floor) We were never allowed in by ourselves. This sanctuary...this, almost holy ground. I always felt 'special' when we went in. He'd point out what was ripe and tell is how to pick it. Carefully, slowly, I'd reach for the prize..didn't want to make mistake here. Maybe I'd never be allowed back in if I screwed up. Today, I think back and realize he must have been chuckling the whole time.
On the second floor lived my aunt and uncle and their daughter Toni. The two of us were lucky. living there we got to spend lots of time with Pa. He lived on the first floor. Things in his place were always interesting. Never was there a time you could walk past his open door without being overwhelmed with familiar aromas of an Italian cooking. If he wasn't cooking down tomatoes for a tomato sauce he was preparing the grapes from the vines to make home made wine or grape jellies. Canning jars were everywhere waiting to be filled, topped off with a wax seal and capped. Every time I entered there was a huge bowl of pasta waiting..'sit, sit' he'd say 'mongiare' (eat). Dutifully I'd sit and stuff myself with spaghetti until I almost couldn't move. As it turns out, my mother once told me pasta was my first solid food when I was baby. Guess it left a lasting impression.
The real excitement came on Sundays. The entire family would come from all around to enjoy the dishes my Pa had spent all week preparing. Everyone gathered outside under the canopy of grape vines. From my perspective, it was electric and often times loud. Everyone had something to say. It was a large family. It was like a sibling rivalry convention. If you know anything about Italians, they can be opinionated at times and it always showed at these family gatherings. Arguments usually ensued but, by the end of the day everyone parted, at least, on speaking terms. To me it was almost comical. The following Sunday would be an instant replay. All of us kids just played and had a fun time. Oblivious to the adults for the most part.
Now time has passed, things have changed. Pa passed some time ago, and as with most families, once the 'glue' holding the family together is gone, the family slowly begins to disintegrate. I'm certain this was the case with most families back then. Today families are much smaller. The cohesive element seems weaker. I don't personally know of any families that gather together on a weekly basis. It certainly is the case in my family. Once a large family, today our numbers have dwindled dramatically. The last generation is past. All that remains are a few cousins and their kids. We're spread out around a few states, rarely communicate, let alone visit one another...yup for a time, when I was a kid...I enjoyed my lovable Italian family.
Just my observations...Jake T
When I was an eight year old kid I lived in the city, in an Italian neighborhood. My home was on the third floor of my Grandpa's house. Life was good then, after all, what did an eight year old boy have to worry about. My dad worked for the Indian Motorcycle company and my mother was a stay at home mom. I got three squares a day and a roof over my head. I roamed the neighborhood and played with the other kids. The summers lasted forever.
From the third floor I could look down into the backyard. Not very large but, back then everything looked larger than when revisited as an adult. In the yard was a large barn. It was a home for a draft horse. I don't remember the horse's name. My 'Pa' as we called him, ran an ice business and the horse hauled the wagon ladened with ice blocks to customers all around the city. I remember as a kid, going to a local frozen pond with my father. We'd cut blocks of ice from it using a large hand saw, haul the ice to my uncle's ice house near by, and store it. One day the draft horse was killed in a fire and soon after the ice business went the way of the dinosaur. The modern refrigerator had replaced the ice box.
Next to the barn was a one car garage, so narrow that once a car was parked inside, it was nearly impossible to get out of the car. The remainder of the backyard was covered in grape vines. Every year they would grow to maturity and the whole yard was permeated with the sweet aroma of grapes. It was wonderful. Behind the barn and garage was a vegetable garden. This was Pas' crowning achievement and he tended it with great care. Everything was perfect. Rows of tomatoes, peppers, beans, corn and other things filled every square inch of the garden. Not a weed in sight. Every row, ram rod straight. Every plant pinched back. When it was time to harvest, he'd open the gate and escort Toni and me in. (Toni was my cousin and lived on the second floor) We were never allowed in by ourselves. This sanctuary...this, almost holy ground. I always felt 'special' when we went in. He'd point out what was ripe and tell is how to pick it. Carefully, slowly, I'd reach for the prize..didn't want to make mistake here. Maybe I'd never be allowed back in if I screwed up. Today, I think back and realize he must have been chuckling the whole time.
On the second floor lived my aunt and uncle and their daughter Toni. The two of us were lucky. living there we got to spend lots of time with Pa. He lived on the first floor. Things in his place were always interesting. Never was there a time you could walk past his open door without being overwhelmed with familiar aromas of an Italian cooking. If he wasn't cooking down tomatoes for a tomato sauce he was preparing the grapes from the vines to make home made wine or grape jellies. Canning jars were everywhere waiting to be filled, topped off with a wax seal and capped. Every time I entered there was a huge bowl of pasta waiting..'sit, sit' he'd say 'mongiare' (eat). Dutifully I'd sit and stuff myself with spaghetti until I almost couldn't move. As it turns out, my mother once told me pasta was my first solid food when I was baby. Guess it left a lasting impression.
The real excitement came on Sundays. The entire family would come from all around to enjoy the dishes my Pa had spent all week preparing. Everyone gathered outside under the canopy of grape vines. From my perspective, it was electric and often times loud. Everyone had something to say. It was a large family. It was like a sibling rivalry convention. If you know anything about Italians, they can be opinionated at times and it always showed at these family gatherings. Arguments usually ensued but, by the end of the day everyone parted, at least, on speaking terms. To me it was almost comical. The following Sunday would be an instant replay. All of us kids just played and had a fun time. Oblivious to the adults for the most part.
Now time has passed, things have changed. Pa passed some time ago, and as with most families, once the 'glue' holding the family together is gone, the family slowly begins to disintegrate. I'm certain this was the case with most families back then. Today families are much smaller. The cohesive element seems weaker. I don't personally know of any families that gather together on a weekly basis. It certainly is the case in my family. Once a large family, today our numbers have dwindled dramatically. The last generation is past. All that remains are a few cousins and their kids. We're spread out around a few states, rarely communicate, let alone visit one another...yup for a time, when I was a kid...I enjoyed my lovable Italian family.
Just my observations...Jake T
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Rip-Off... A blog about a horse.
He just stood there, head hanging down, eyes unfocused. His rib cage was visible under his coat and his long coarse mane hung in a matted tangled mess. He appeared worn out and broken down. This was my first look at the horse my daughter Paula wanted me to buy for her. 'Dad, his name is 'Rip-Off' she said excitedly. Rip-Off...? The hairs on my neck stood straight up. What kind of name is 'Rip-Off'? I guess it should have been self explanatory. Any normal person would turn and run but, the bond between the two had formed and I didn't want to break that. Paula was spending time with friends that were having a negative effect. This horse could be the answer to keeping her occupied with something positive. I bought him the same day. We made arrangements with the farm owner to keep 'Rip' boarded there. Paula's chores at the farm would pay for his stall and feed.
My decision proved to be the right one. Paula spent nearly all free time at the farm tending to her horse. She was happy. She nursed him back to health. His appearance improved greatly as did his overall demeanor. He was a gentle giant at 16 hands. As time went on she started entering him in horse shows. He did whatever she asked of him. Never refused her. They even won a few ribbons. As time went on, some of his former life experiences starting catching up. He came up lame and we later on discovered he had been used as a hunter jumper and fox hunter. The constant jumping had taken it's toll and injured his front leg. Now the lameness reappeared. Close examination showed navicular disease. An inflammation that causes lameness in horses. We stopped the shows and made the decision to trail ride him on the wooded trails in the area. It would be easier on his leg. He enjoyed the trail rides and the attention. The leg, though an issue, was managed with the help of our veterinarian.
About eight years ago I purchased property across the road from where Rip was boarded. I had enough land to bring him home with us. We cleared a paddock put up a fence and built a shelter. He took to it right away. Lots of shade plenty of room. Things worked out so well we tried introducing a rescue horse to keep him company. At first things seemed fine but, in a short time he would be dominated by the new arrival. He was a gentle sort and didn't fare well. He began staying at the far end of the paddock while the other horse took over the shelter and food. This was not working out. I made arrangements to return the rescue horse and Rip appeared to be happiest living alone.
For the next several years life was good for Rip. Paula, though still very dedicated to his well being, didn't ride as much. we were concerned with his age. We estimated it around 30. Many horses this age exhibit swayback and usually have other health problems. Rip didn't fit this profile. His body weight was good and his coat had an even sheen. Overall his look was that of a healthy middle aged horse. We decided to retire him from riding. We took him for walks on the trails. I especially liked this. It's was an awesome feeling having an animal this large and powerful walking alongside me at a brisk pace. Kind of like walking a really, really big dog.
Now it's winter of last year. It's seemed to go on forever. Cold windy and icy. I make my way out to the paddock carrying a bucket of fresh drinking water. Something's wrong. He's not his usual place waiting for me. I find him behind his shelter. At first, everything seems ok. As I get closer I can hear his labored breathing. It's hard to see. The sun has set. I'm getting nervous. I go back to house and get a flashlight. I return and as I approach him I see blood in his nostrils and on his muzzle. My heart skips. I try to walk him into his stall for a better look. He won't move. His breathing is not improving. Now I'm on the phone calling the Veterinarian. I'm shouting...get over here now!! He arrives thirty minutes later. He quickly examines Rip. Oh no...the vet is shaking his head. What!...He's not sure what the problem is but, he tells me that Rip is in distress. There is nothing he can do to help him. Nothing he can do comfort him. He looks at me and says 'it's time'. I knew instantly what he meant. My knees went wobbly. I was starting to feel I'll. Paula, no...WE.. were going to lose one of our most precious possessions. 'Can we wait until Paula gets here?' I asked the vet. She was at work miles from home. He just shook his head and said 'no time'. This is so difficult...so very difficult. I'm having a hard time typing this blog....
I'm standing in front of him now caressing his muzzle. He's looking at me with almost knowing eyes. He's calm. I whisper to him ' I'm sorry bud...it'll be ok...it's ok'. The vet is standing near me and I know what's next. Slowly Rip bows down on his front knees then completely lies down.The tranquilizer is taking effect. He seems relaxed. The vet. injects the final drug and suddenly...quickly it's done. This horse our family so loved for so long is gone. It's the first time I ever cried openly in front of another person. I didn't care. I felt no shame.
He's buried in our back yard, in the same paddock he spent so many happy years. A stone marker is in place. In some strange way, it's comforting to have him there. He's still feels close to us. I look out my bedroom window and, sometimes, I can imagine him standing there waiting for me to come and visit with him...We miss you Rip-Off.
Note: Some may question why I wrote this blog. The answer is, I felt by writing this and making it available for all to read it will perpetuate his memory. I hope is does. Jake T
My decision proved to be the right one. Paula spent nearly all free time at the farm tending to her horse. She was happy. She nursed him back to health. His appearance improved greatly as did his overall demeanor. He was a gentle giant at 16 hands. As time went on she started entering him in horse shows. He did whatever she asked of him. Never refused her. They even won a few ribbons. As time went on, some of his former life experiences starting catching up. He came up lame and we later on discovered he had been used as a hunter jumper and fox hunter. The constant jumping had taken it's toll and injured his front leg. Now the lameness reappeared. Close examination showed navicular disease. An inflammation that causes lameness in horses. We stopped the shows and made the decision to trail ride him on the wooded trails in the area. It would be easier on his leg. He enjoyed the trail rides and the attention. The leg, though an issue, was managed with the help of our veterinarian.
About eight years ago I purchased property across the road from where Rip was boarded. I had enough land to bring him home with us. We cleared a paddock put up a fence and built a shelter. He took to it right away. Lots of shade plenty of room. Things worked out so well we tried introducing a rescue horse to keep him company. At first things seemed fine but, in a short time he would be dominated by the new arrival. He was a gentle sort and didn't fare well. He began staying at the far end of the paddock while the other horse took over the shelter and food. This was not working out. I made arrangements to return the rescue horse and Rip appeared to be happiest living alone.
For the next several years life was good for Rip. Paula, though still very dedicated to his well being, didn't ride as much. we were concerned with his age. We estimated it around 30. Many horses this age exhibit swayback and usually have other health problems. Rip didn't fit this profile. His body weight was good and his coat had an even sheen. Overall his look was that of a healthy middle aged horse. We decided to retire him from riding. We took him for walks on the trails. I especially liked this. It's was an awesome feeling having an animal this large and powerful walking alongside me at a brisk pace. Kind of like walking a really, really big dog.
Now it's winter of last year. It's seemed to go on forever. Cold windy and icy. I make my way out to the paddock carrying a bucket of fresh drinking water. Something's wrong. He's not his usual place waiting for me. I find him behind his shelter. At first, everything seems ok. As I get closer I can hear his labored breathing. It's hard to see. The sun has set. I'm getting nervous. I go back to house and get a flashlight. I return and as I approach him I see blood in his nostrils and on his muzzle. My heart skips. I try to walk him into his stall for a better look. He won't move. His breathing is not improving. Now I'm on the phone calling the Veterinarian. I'm shouting...get over here now!! He arrives thirty minutes later. He quickly examines Rip. Oh no...the vet is shaking his head. What!...He's not sure what the problem is but, he tells me that Rip is in distress. There is nothing he can do to help him. Nothing he can do comfort him. He looks at me and says 'it's time'. I knew instantly what he meant. My knees went wobbly. I was starting to feel I'll. Paula, no...WE.. were going to lose one of our most precious possessions. 'Can we wait until Paula gets here?' I asked the vet. She was at work miles from home. He just shook his head and said 'no time'. This is so difficult...so very difficult. I'm having a hard time typing this blog....
I'm standing in front of him now caressing his muzzle. He's looking at me with almost knowing eyes. He's calm. I whisper to him ' I'm sorry bud...it'll be ok...it's ok'. The vet is standing near me and I know what's next. Slowly Rip bows down on his front knees then completely lies down.The tranquilizer is taking effect. He seems relaxed. The vet. injects the final drug and suddenly...quickly it's done. This horse our family so loved for so long is gone. It's the first time I ever cried openly in front of another person. I didn't care. I felt no shame.
He's buried in our back yard, in the same paddock he spent so many happy years. A stone marker is in place. In some strange way, it's comforting to have him there. He's still feels close to us. I look out my bedroom window and, sometimes, I can imagine him standing there waiting for me to come and visit with him...We miss you Rip-Off.
Note: Some may question why I wrote this blog. The answer is, I felt by writing this and making it available for all to read it will perpetuate his memory. I hope is does. Jake T
Friday, July 22, 2011
Have you seen what's on lately?
Have you noticed whats on t.v. Lately? 'Swamp people', 'American Hoggers' and others. Shows that promote the violent killing of animals. I understand that some of these animals are not the most endeared to our hearts. Alligators and wild pigs? Who really likes them all that much? But, that's not the point. Alligators shot at close range with a camera up close to catch all the gory action. The American Hoggers show gives us a look at a backwoods family sporting western style holsters and revolvers. Like something out of the old west. They shoot wild and kill wild hogs they consider dangerous. If these people weren't, in the animal's territory, seeking them out, they wouldn't seem so dangerous!
What's the obsession with these shows? Have we, as a society, become so callus, so desensitized watching we no longer care? Its disturbing. this has become 'entertainment'. Even as an adult and I find it disturbing to watch. I either turn away or change the channel.
What concerns me most are the children. They watch these shows? What effect is it having on them? Children with a healthy nurturing family may understand this is not the normal behavior for treating animals. What about the children that have no guidance? No supervision? How do they interpret these programs? Watching them, sometimes over and over, has got to have a negative affect. Over time it may seem normal to mimic this behavior. This should be a big concern to all of us. These kids grow up to be adults. It's a known fact that, in some instances, children that harm animals can eventually progress to harming people.
People that produce these shows of this kind do it for one thing, money. They're not concerned who the audience is. I think it's morally irresponsible of them to produce this kind of tv but, that's a battle I know I'd never win. We've gone too far. No turning back now. The only thing we can do as parents is teach our children, supervise them and hope maybe these tv show producers come up with a new direction...something that doesn't require killing any animals. That's probably not going to happen...that would require serious thought!
Jake T
What's the obsession with these shows? Have we, as a society, become so callus, so desensitized watching we no longer care? Its disturbing. this has become 'entertainment'. Even as an adult and I find it disturbing to watch. I either turn away or change the channel.
What concerns me most are the children. They watch these shows? What effect is it having on them? Children with a healthy nurturing family may understand this is not the normal behavior for treating animals. What about the children that have no guidance? No supervision? How do they interpret these programs? Watching them, sometimes over and over, has got to have a negative affect. Over time it may seem normal to mimic this behavior. This should be a big concern to all of us. These kids grow up to be adults. It's a known fact that, in some instances, children that harm animals can eventually progress to harming people.
People that produce these shows of this kind do it for one thing, money. They're not concerned who the audience is. I think it's morally irresponsible of them to produce this kind of tv but, that's a battle I know I'd never win. We've gone too far. No turning back now. The only thing we can do as parents is teach our children, supervise them and hope maybe these tv show producers come up with a new direction...something that doesn't require killing any animals. That's probably not going to happen...that would require serious thought!
Jake T
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Well it's over...
After all was said and done I find I have learned a valuable and hard lesson. I like so many other people watching the Casey Anthony trial had come to the conclusion she was guilty. So positive in fact, I had predicted what her sentence would be. I was so sure, so positive. There was no way this murderess was going to go free. all the evidence I heard seemed to me to seal her fate. The 31 days not reporting her daughter missing. The incessant lying to her family and the police. The duct tape, the smell of chloroform in the trunk of her car and other evidence presented at trial.
Now trial is over and we all know the outcome. Not guilty! I'm stunned. I had this all figured out. How did this happen? This can't be.
Well, it did happen, and the lesson I have learned is this...I will not make a guess as to someone's guilt or innocence getting my information from the television coverage. Bits and pieces of information, taken from television news, is unreliable at the very least. I've also Learned you CAN get away with murder just like O.J. Did and now Casey Anthony.
My faith in the justice system has been shaken. I don't say this lightly. Man has gotten away with murder since he first stood upright. It's just that this latest C.A. Trial has brought that realization rushing forward once more.
As far as Casey Anthony is concerned, she will be free soon. Free from imprisonment but, she will never be free of the guilt she has to carry with her through out the rest of her life. She is a periah. She should carry this like a 'scarlet letter' emblazoned over the 'Bella Vita' tattoo she so proudly displays.
A little girl is gone. Taken from is much too early. I hope she rests in peace.
Jake T
After all was said and done I find I have learned a valuable and hard lesson. I like so many other people watching the Casey Anthony trial had come to the conclusion she was guilty. So positive in fact, I had predicted what her sentence would be. I was so sure, so positive. There was no way this murderess was going to go free. all the evidence I heard seemed to me to seal her fate. The 31 days not reporting her daughter missing. The incessant lying to her family and the police. The duct tape, the smell of chloroform in the trunk of her car and other evidence presented at trial.
Now trial is over and we all know the outcome. Not guilty! I'm stunned. I had this all figured out. How did this happen? This can't be.
Well, it did happen, and the lesson I have learned is this...I will not make a guess as to someone's guilt or innocence getting my information from the television coverage. Bits and pieces of information, taken from television news, is unreliable at the very least. I've also Learned you CAN get away with murder just like O.J. Did and now Casey Anthony.
My faith in the justice system has been shaken. I don't say this lightly. Man has gotten away with murder since he first stood upright. It's just that this latest C.A. Trial has brought that realization rushing forward once more.
As far as Casey Anthony is concerned, she will be free soon. Free from imprisonment but, she will never be free of the guilt she has to carry with her through out the rest of her life. She is a periah. She should carry this like a 'scarlet letter' emblazoned over the 'Bella Vita' tattoo she so proudly displays.
A little girl is gone. Taken from is much too early. I hope she rests in peace.
Jake T
Friday, July 1, 2011
My Addiction
Well, today is Friday and I'm sitting here on a dialysis machine for four hours. I'm using an Apple Ipad my family gave me as a gift for Christmas. The intent was to help pass the time while I sit in this chair getting my blood cleaned. This is a good thing, don't get me wrong.
The problem is I've become addicted to the IPad. Seems like I just can't put it down. It's gotten to the point I use it at home all the time. I get up in the morning and there it is sitting on the counter waiting. Unplug it from the charger and we're off.
Now I've discovered facebook, twitter and a few other social networks. This kinda adds fuel to the fire. Oh, I almost forgot to mention this blog.
I think I'm enjoying this way too much so, I figure it's got to be an addiction. So far my wife is handling this ok, as long as the Red Sox games are on. My worry is, after the season is over, she's going to want me to talk to her at night when theres' nothing to watch on tv. This could be a problem because guy's wives usually like to have meaningful conversations at least once in a while.
So, I'm starting to try and break the habit a little at a time. I figure maybe I'll take up drinking or smoking...nah, just another couple of bad habits I'd have to kick! In the mean time I'm going to get back on the IPad..I Need to do some social networking!
Jake T
The problem is I've become addicted to the IPad. Seems like I just can't put it down. It's gotten to the point I use it at home all the time. I get up in the morning and there it is sitting on the counter waiting. Unplug it from the charger and we're off.
Now I've discovered facebook, twitter and a few other social networks. This kinda adds fuel to the fire. Oh, I almost forgot to mention this blog.
I think I'm enjoying this way too much so, I figure it's got to be an addiction. So far my wife is handling this ok, as long as the Red Sox games are on. My worry is, after the season is over, she's going to want me to talk to her at night when theres' nothing to watch on tv. This could be a problem because guy's wives usually like to have meaningful conversations at least once in a while.
So, I'm starting to try and break the habit a little at a time. I figure maybe I'll take up drinking or smoking...nah, just another couple of bad habits I'd have to kick! In the mean time I'm going to get back on the IPad..I Need to do some social networking!
Jake T
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Those new light bulbs..
A debate on Fox news this morning regarding the new lightbulbs the government wants us to use. They discuss everything except the thing that really should concern all of us and that is the Merrcury these things contain. Everytime one is broken we are advised to evacuate, at the very least, the room, if not your house. Rules for cleanup.
The fact that the government is involved should be the first indication that this whole thing is a bad idea.
The fact that the government is involved should be the first indication that this whole thing is a bad idea.
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