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
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
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.....(-;
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