Musings from the Mundane

Dios, Patria, Libertad

2010-12-12T14:20:00.000-08:00

Mangu

Getting back into the idea of travelling the world via Sunday morning breakfast.

I'm slowly growing to believe in plantains (even though they are hard to find in this neck of the woods).

Interesting breakfast combination, a starch and onions.

I should be doing something more humanitarian on this island though....after generating the links for this post, am wondering if maybe this is a sign of upbringing....

Major Tom

2010-12-03T21:32:00.000-08:00

Rusty

After going back to the beginning and after talking to an old friend tonight, I realize I have forgotten the creed for this bit of Tron's verse.

Go Beavs! (am feeling closest to my major right now rather than my industry....I'll be out at the closest large screen wearing my river pilot purple....)

My History Recollection

2009-04-16T00:45:00.000-07:00

Today's Boston Tea Party

I'm not sure what to make of today's Tea Party Activities. In general, it seems to me that a president inherits the effects of the last term during their first year in office.
(Yes you heard me, I think that FDR's 100-day successes are a knockoff effect of what Hoover was trying to do...)

I did see many angry people in Pioneer Courthouse Square today. But on one hand, they looked like fairly well off people complaining about taxes. Different from the people who continually ask me if I want to save the polar bears, seals, forests, start a bearded army of ????, want to be my buddy (presumably for some sort of religious reason), or just flat out want/demand change (monetary kind that is).

On the flip side, personally, I am working on a 10% reduction in pay and not entirely sure if I'll end up with another reduction before this thing is through....so not wanting more taxes myself. Currently I feel anguish about bankers, big business, and so-called Washington politics; but think that enventually bankers need for more money will let money flow to the masses, the people in business that make money will get back to stepping on people to make money, and that this experiment started around 230 years ago won't collapse on itself yet.

I don't know, the Original Boston Tea Party happened on December 16, 1773 (source Wikipedia) and my understanding is it happened to protest a Tax without representation. Should I be protesting a tax without representation? Unsure....I have elected representatives who hopefully represent the masses electing them, and (after completing my taxes tonight) did come to the conclusion that my tax refund is similar to last years, but yet feel the needs of this corner of our nation not met.

Kinda rambling here, interested in thoughts others might have to say....

Hood!

1920

2008-12-02T21:33:00.000-08:00

Travels Some More

I was down in Sacramento this weekend for my grandmother's 88th Birthday.

One of my cousins tells me that it seems like I'm always travelling somewhere. (I look at my stick-on states map and a map of the world and I disagree a little....or I must always be going the same places...)

Things I got saw this weekend (besides Family):

Folsom State Prison (see this also)

California Foundry Museum

Vintage Ford

Lockheed EC-121 Warning Star aircraft at the Aerospace Museum in the former McClellan Airbase. My dad recollects this is the plane my grandpa worked on as a mechanic at Mather Field.

After the Beavs Performance this weekend, all I gotta say is GO BRUINS!

A Catholics Past?

2008-11-12T21:34:00.000-08:00

Possibly my Oldest Known American Ancestor
(from a Bio sheet provided by another researcher...information yet to be verified)

Daniel Falckner

Daniel and Justus Falckner were brothers, born in Langen-Reinsdorf, Zwichau, Saxony, the sons of the Rev. Daniel Falckner. Daniel was the older, born 25 November 1666. He was educated at Erfurth and ordained in Germany.

Daniel arrived in Philadelphia on 23 June 1694. In 1698 he returned to Germany, but was back in Pennsylvania again in 1700. Upon his return a tract he wrote, probably while in Germany, called "Curiuse Nachricht von Pennsylania in Norden-America" was published in Frankfurt and Leipzig in 1702. He knew William Penn and acted as agent for the Frankfurt Land Co. to survey 25,000 acres previously sold the company by Penn. In this work he supplanted Francis Daniel Pastorius who had come to Pennsylvania in 1683.

Anna Maria Schuckart is presumed to have been Daniel's wife and the mother of his two daughters; one named Molly married Wilhelm Dern.

Daniel Falckner was active in Germantown. However, in 1798 he disappeared from history for a time. His brother, Justus, was ordained on 24 Nov 1703 by the Swedes in Penn's English colony: this being the first Lutheran ordination in America. He served the Dutch Lutherans in New York and had three congregations - Albany, Hakensack and New York (New York and New Jersey had the same governor at that time.) Pastor Falckner traveled about 1500 miles a year. He died in 1723. About this time Daniel Falckner reappeared, living then in New Jersey.

He died, probably in New Jersey, after 1741; but before 1745.

So the question is am I guilty as a Catholic or guilty as a descendant of a proponent of the then Catholic church wrongs turned Catholic....... on the other hand, I never thought how strong and long this German-American genealogy might be.

Been a Long Haul

2008-11-08T06:19:00.000-08:00

I Gave In

Some things seen from Roadtrip 2008

Day 1
Portland, OR to Klamath Falls, OR

Timberline Lodge, Mount Hood, Oregon

Fort Rock, Fort Rock, Oregon

Day 2
Klamath Falls, OR to Carson City, NV

Lakeview, Oregon

Goose Lake, Oregon/California

Honey Lake, California

Day 3
Carson City, NV to Tonopah, NV

Nevada State Capitol, Carson City, Nevada

Walker Lake, Nevada

Ammunition Depot, Hawthorne, Nevada

Desert Queen Mine, Tonopah, Nevada

Day 4
Tonopah, NV to Furnace Creek Camp, CA

Scotty's Castle, Death Valley, California

Ubehebe Crater, Death Valley, California

Day 5
Furnace Creek, CA to Wildrose Camp Death Valley, CA

Zabriskie Point, Death Valley, California

Ruins, Rhyolite, Nevada

Charcoal Kilns, Death Valley, California

Day 6
Wildrose Camp Death Valley, CA to Las Vegas, NV

Golden Canyon, Death Valley, California

Artists Palette, Death Valley, California

Badwater Basin, Death Valley, California

Day 7
Las Vegas, NV to Phoenix, AZ

Hoover Dam, Nevada/Arizona

Joshua Trees, Arizona

Saguaro Cacti, Arizona

Day 8
Phoenix, AZ

Arizona State Capitol, Phoenix, Arizona

Day 9
Phoenix, AZ to Cedarpines Park, CA

General Patton Museum, Chiriaco Summit, California

Windfarm, San Gorgonio Pass, California (the photo doesn't do the 4,000 turbine farm justice)

Day 10
Cedarpines Park, CA to Bishop, CA

Solar Farm, Kramer Junction, California

Mount Whitney, California

Manzanar Internment Camp, Owens Valley, California

Day 11
Bishop, CA to Redding, CA

Mono Lake, California

Lake Tahoe, California

Squaw Valley, California

Donner Camp, (near) Truckee, California

Sulphur Works, Lassen Volcanic National Park, California

Day 12
Redding, CA to PDX

Mount Shasta, California (when you see the Cascades you know you're on your way home)

Once again, we return to spreading "knowledge" to the world at large......

InNotable Quotable

2007-01-20T19:08:00.000-08:00

Somehow, this quote meant something entirely different in high school.

"Dat truck dah is trash; en trash is what people is dat puts dirt on de head er dey fren's en makes 'em ashamed."

In high school, the first part of the quote was used repeatedly (in reference to my vehicle at the time), forgetting there's a second more meaningful part of the line...

Not Quite a Nucular Wessel, Alameda Naval Station, California, July 2004, by LHD

Da Cars

2007-01-18T18:44:00.000-08:00

To dwell on a topic some more:

Watch this.

Then watch this.

Guess, that's how we drive 'round here whenever it might snow.

A light-hearted nearly related one here.....

The Popemobile Before, Portland Flugtag, Oregon, July 2004, by LHD

And After, Portland Flugtug, Oregon, July 2004, by LHD

Opposites Attract

2007-01-13T20:46:00.000-08:00

If this were entirely true with relationships, what would my opposite be?

She'd dislike the outdoors, but grudgingly go.
She'd be into drawing (or digital photography).
She'd hate reading/spending time in a Library, but would have lots of time for it.
She'd be organized and neat.
She wouldn't eat fish.
She'd throw as much away as she possibly could.
She'd be serious all the time.
She'd talk a lot, loudly.
She'd enjoy cleaning.
She'd have a lot of techno gadgets, but abhor the computer or computer games.
She'd rather watch TV than film.
She wouldn't drink alcohol or caffeine.
She'd be a marathon runner.
She'd think more about the future than the past or present.
She'd flit from place to place.
She'd be an expert in one thing and not have a great interest in a bunch of other things.
She'd know a lot about fashion.
She'd know about all sorts of places to go in the city.
She'd rarely frequent just a few.
Her spelling would be atrocious.

So, if you know someone fitting (some of) the bill, let me know....

Oil leaches, USS Arizona Memorial, Hawai'i, November 2004, by LHD

Land of the Free

2007-01-12T21:13:00.000-08:00

You're not from around here are you?

If you live in Portland (whose name was chosen via a coin toss), you eventually realize native Oregonians seem to be the minority here (actually, if states were nations I can only claim to be a naturalized citizen, but anyhow).

Latest places I've mostly overheard people saying they are from: Georgia and Florida. This somewhat alarms me....I hear this and think an influx of people from this part of the country will only destroy things here (I always think of what is becoming/become of the (dying) Everglades and the ceasingly urgan sprawl that I understand is Atlanta). On the flip side....Manifest Destiny destroyed what was here over a hundred years ago.

Tonight at the pub I sat next to a group of people talking gloriously about Colorado. From the things they were saying and from my single trip to that state; I really wanted to ask them how wonderful Beaverton must be.

Well, that's your pointless Portlandia (why Google led me to a link about California really unnerves me) nose in the air to the rest of the country rant for the evening.....

Partial Role Call of an Infamous Day, Pearl Harbour, Hawai'i, November 2004, by LHD

Snow Day?

2007-01-11T21:09:00.000-08:00

Only what snow?

Apparently today's 1/8-inch snowfall and temperatures high enough to melt ice were enough to close school for an entire day (yes that was close.....not two-hour or one-hour delay....).

Portland Public Schools.....home of the world's laziest administration.......

Mighty Mo, Pearl Harbour, Hawai'i, November 2004, by LHD

No Way

2007-01-02T21:12:00.000-08:00

New Year's Rocked, I hope everyone had a good one as well.

I went to a party that my Seattle friends had. I had a good time. I put together a camera strap. I tricked a 20 guesses computer game. I watched parts of a foreign language film with a seeming lot of massaging a naked lady; on mute with a music soundtrack. I talked to people from around the country. I can chalk up talking to someone else with Ukrainian heritage. I got a chance to feel mentally slow (other trades must need to talk fast or something). I heard what the windstorm was like up North. I learned there's a McMennamin's (equivalent) you can live in at the top of one of the Seattle hills. I learned if you drink enough you can render a (binoculared) worded neon sign into just being a bunch of vertical lines.

They have a view of the space needle from where they live. I've never seen the Seattle New Year's fireworks before. There was some discussion beforehand (and some disbelief) about where the fireworks might be launched from. I was not disappointed at all (and it gave me a little joke..most likely only at my amusement toward the end of the night).

I mooched my way through the weekend.....

Koolau Range, Nuuanu Pali Overlook, Oahu, Hawaii, November 2004, by LHD

Helping Out

2006-12-28T19:09:00.000-08:00

Hope Christmas was good and Santa brought lots of toys.

The past couple weekends (apart from working) I helped with the Christmas Trains. The event was put on (mostly) by the Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation.

The trains were pulled by steam locomotives. Two weekends ago, by the Spokane, Seattle and Portland #700 and last weekend by the Southern Pacific #4449. Both engines are what is known as a 4-8-4 locomotive (4 small leading truck wheels, 8 big driver wheels, and 4 small trailing truck wheels). The SP&S #700 is the third largest operating steam locomotive in North America (the second largest is the SP 4449).

The SP 4449 is a streamlined locomotive (in excess of 80mph is claimed). It was a "daylight" locomotive for Southern Pacific and is considered one of the "most beautiful locomotives every built. It was specially rescued from static display at Oak Parks for restoration about 1976 to pull the American Freedom Train for this countries bicentennial.

If you get the chance to see a big Northern steam locomotive in action, don't miss it; as the world is slowly forgetting good things about steam for a faster/cheaper/electric existence.....

Dat Truck Dah is Trash

2006-12-17T10:41:00.000-08:00

Finally, I'm on the next book in the pile.

I've read it before (just like I'd read Great Expectations before) and hopefully this time around, will have a different understanding of the words presented.

This Book has the greatest opening notice ever penned:

NOTICE

Persons attempting to find a motive in this narrative will be prosecuted; persons attempting to find a moral in it will be banished; persons attempting to find a plot in it will be shot.

By Order of the Author

Per G.G., Chief of Ordnance.

The author who wrote this must be rolling around in his grave knowing that the book is required reading (and dissection) by many students in America...

Kaneohe / Kailua, Pali Highway Overlook, Oahu, November 2004, by LHD

Turn to Page

2006-12-16T13:20:00.000-08:00

Link Link Link Link Link.

Link Link Link Link Link Link Link Link Link Link Link Link.

Link Link Link Link...

Chinaman's Hat, Windward O'ahu, Hawai'i, November 2004, by LHD

Taste Test Wars

2006-12-12T20:19:00.000-08:00

After reading this.

Am thinking I don't wanna have another pop.

Of course, on the flip side, I felt the same way after seeing the Burger movie....I still eat "fast" food....

Sunset Beach, North Shore Oahu, Hawai'i, November 2004, by LHD

Bits and Bits

2006-12-03T20:52:00.000-08:00

Something small and which might seem insignificant can always improve a day.

No matter what you may feel starting that day off.

Thanks.

Well Past the Red Line and Shoulda Had a Boogie-Board, Not Camera in Hand, Waimea Bay, O'ahu, November 2004, by LHD

Pics

2006-11-30T21:47:00.000-08:00

"Netgear" is now "Linksys."

One of these days I'll probably break down and get iService....

Bonzai Pipeline, North Shore, Oahu, December 2004, by LHD

Annual Movie Day

2006-11-27T12:13:00.000-08:00

Rather than Shopping the Day After Thanksgiving, I go to the movies with my sisters/brother.

This Year's Shows:

Flushed Away. Its a fun movie. Sometimes I feel like the main rat character.

Borat. There are some funny parts and some parts that are hard to watch. I just have fun talking in broken english like the Borat character.

Stranger than Fiction. I liked this movie the most out of the bunch. A departure for the typical Will Farrell movie. (of course we got to see many scenes from Talladega Nights during "the 20"...stupid Regal Cinemas premovie TV....)

Running joke of the day was about my sisters really wanting to see the Bond movie.

Anyhow, hopefully everyone had a good Thanksgiving.

Posting will be sparse to sporadic until I figure out what I want to do regarding lost internet at the house.....

Mediterranean Bond Works Dickens

2006-11-18T14:04:00.000-08:00

That could describe the week.

Lots of work this week.

The Cheap Eat was Alexandrya Mediterranean Cuisine. Its downtown on the edge of the Portland State campus. Small place. Its Lebanese. Even though I don't imagine it raining much there....warm yummy falafel is perfect on a cold rainy night when you've walked around abit to find the place you're heading for. It warms your hands and your tummy....as well as tasting good.

I saw the Bond movie last night (naturally). It was a welcome departure from some of the more formulaic movies. Go and see it if you get the chance. Highly recommended. Only complaint; the title song sucked and the opening credits weren't as pleasing to the eye...product placement was evident in the film; Ford made sure to have its cars in the movie (Namebrand, Jaguar, Aston Martin...great car, and Volvo all present) and the owner of Columbia was present as well (Bond does have great taste in laptops)

Finally, finished another book. Lesson learned; life is not what it seems and pride will hurt you.

(formulaic spoiler below)

Great Expectations
Charles Dickens

I took her hand in mine, and we went out of the ruined place; and, as the morning mists had risen long ago when I first left the forge, so, the evening mists were rising now, and in all the broad expanse of tranquil light they showed to me, I saw no shadow of another parting from her.

We'll see what eclectism next week elicits.....

Waimea Bay, North Shore, Oahu, November 2004, by LHD

Work

2006-11-14T20:17:00.000-08:00

That's what I did this weekend.

I gooped up a small portion of roof. Hopefully I picked the right spot.

(and I worked)

Did you hear about this?

The speed at which this happened is astounding.

I wonder if we'll get a chance to work on the project....

Trump Tower will be at the far edge of the park next to the Outrigger, Waikiki, O'ahu, November 2004, by LHD

La-LA-la-LALALA-lah

2006-11-09T20:46:00.000-08:00

Faust.

I've now seen this thing many ways. I read it as an essay in a High School Class. I saw it as a Silent Movie with a live band playing the score. I heard it as a piece played on the Symphony in Sydney. I've now seen and heard it as presented by the Portland Opera.

I kinda liked it that way. The Opera is like the symphony, but gives you more interaction and something to watch....in a way more suited for those of us with shorter attention spans.... Even though the Opera is more money, the people there seemed lessed pretentious than at the symphony. You get to clap more often at the Opera (instead of waiting for an entire piece to finish...).

I might even go so far as to say the women attending the Opera are cuter than those at the Symphony....even with their male attachments....

Sidenote; looking at election results, Oregon is truely a state divided....the Valley (and some might say Portland) vs the rest of the state....

The Tower on the right is completed now, Honolulu, Oahu, November 2004, by LHD

Infamous

2006-11-06T23:13:00.000-08:00

Not Just Famous....but IN-famous.

-Three Amigos

Political Messages to the House: Bill Clinton, Earl Blumenauer, Storm Large...all telling me who I should vote for. Your ballot had to be in the mail by Friday to guarantee it counting. The calls were on Friday, Saturday and Tonight.

(I don't know how y'all in polling states do it....fill out the scantron sheet and put it in the mail or drop it off is definitely the way to go)

Tonight's rains revealed I have a roof leak to repair.

Even though I think I'm a straightfoward person; I wonder how political I actually am.

DON'T FORGET TOMORROW IS NOVEMBER 7!

and I think I've been stirring up the pot nicely....if only I'd stir it up abit for myself....STOP THE INFAMOUS EL GUAPO

I lived in the brown twin tower to the right for a year, Waikiki, Oahu, November 2004, by LHD

Whatcha Been Up To

2006-11-05T10:17:00.000-08:00

Not much.

I've been working on scanning film from 2004 for awhile. (Good thing most prints get put in albums and then the negs just get stacked in the same place.....they're in some sort of chronological order that way...helps remember what the pics are...)

It will take some time to expose 2004 to y'all, but I can say 2004 was a crazy year for me. I vacationed in Fiji that February. I took a few weekend drives that spring. I spent my birthday in the Bay; and made at least 3 more trips down there that summer. I bought a house that fall. I took a job with another company about the same time. The week after I moved I was in Honolulu for the remainder of the year.

I've been spending a bunch of time in the Library/Den Office working on the scans, so I've had time to work on getting this room sorted. I ran across an old (2004) Willy Week Cheap Eats directory which I've started to go through (Thursday Nights or Saturday mornings...depending on the type of place).

This week's Eat....Abhiruchi. Its an Indian Food restaurant stating that it serves both Southern and Northen Indian Food (I don't know what the differences are). Its located in a strip mall in Beaverton, close to a Kmart and Grocery Outlet. It is also next to a faux Irish Pub (Maguffy's Pub) and a hole in the wall Mexican Food place. The food is pretty good and the family running the place were friendly. It is not busy on a Thursday night, but looks like it is set up for lunch buffet. I imagine its busy at lunch (it is near the Nike Campus). I'd go again if I lived in Beaverton.

That's the update....enjoy (or groan) as 2004 is presented in the sidebar below over the coming months....

Diamondhead at Dusk, Magic Island, Oahu, November 2004, by LHD

Through the Past

2006-10-29T19:11:00.000-08:00

(Darkly......)

This weekend I pruned the roses back for the fall (there is another pruning sometime late January/February....closer to the ground). Judging from the amount of leaves left on the roses at hip height this year, they are doing healthier than last year. Guess plants really do like to be cut once in awhile.

Soon we will begin journeying back through the analog journeys in digital form.

If you know a female here in Portland looking to go to the Opera next Tuesday let me know.

Tuesday is Halloween......Boo!

Thru the Looking Glass, Cape Meares Lighthouse, Oregon, July 2006, by LHD

November 7

2006-10-25T21:26:00.000-07:00

Something I found interesting from my voter's pamphlet.

There are party statements from the Constitution Party, Democratic Party, Libertarian Party, and Pacific Green Party in the Oregon Voter's Pamphlet.

Impression that comes to mind; The Republican Party must have thought it was futile to make a statement here.....or they have no platform to state.....

Octopus Tree, Cape Meares, Oregon, July 2006, by LHD

Pull y'All Up

2006-10-24T00:46:00.000-07:00

One of the many cracks I heard this weekend.

The weekend trek this week was to Puyallup for my Minnesota (and ex-Pac NW) friends' West Coast Tour Weeding Reception.

It was good. I got to see friends who are both near and far to this place.

Afterwards; bowling. I haven't bowled since going to a place called Lucky Strike in LA....a few years ago. My game improved throughout the night. I bowled a 98. I should probably play more often.

Right now, tired and should go to bed...a film scanner I ordered should come in this week; so I can continue to torture the internet with past photos......

Three Arch Rocks, Cape Meares, Oregon, July 2006, by LHD

Colour

2006-10-19T21:49:00.000-07:00

I'm too lazy to come up with something of my own.

I doubly found these Sony ads intriguing.

Europeans must have a longer attention span than Americans.....

All in Life is Not Serious

2006-10-16T20:30:00.000-07:00

A good laugh.

Check out the post on this blog dated October 16, 2006.

This could be how the future turns outs......

Tatanka without a zoom, Golden Gate Park, California, June 2006, by LHD

Works Out

2006-10-15T11:18:00.000-07:00

Who says you need to plan.

Friday night, mini-BBQ with a friend I know through work, his wife and their little one. Then down to the pub for a couple. Strange; I ran into one of my sister's down there. She was out on a Bachelorette party with her friends. Drunk emails afterwards.

Saturday, I spent time doing some chores and last layer of primer on the task which will be drug out until the end of time (at least without someone else to drive me; that's how long my personal projects take). I decided how I'm gonna vote on Measure 39.

Ended up unexpectedly going to a show at Berbati's Pan with my sister, her boyfriend, and one of her friends. The opener was a one man act, like Vanilla Ice doing a lyp-sync type video on YouTube but instead of rap...singing. The second band kinda made me think of Weezer and were good. The headliner was good, but seemed slower....by then I felt tired......I'm old. I liked the second band best. Then after the show had the world's largest fritter. Current hunger state....nill.....

Today its raining and puts a kaibosh on finishing up some yardwork and pruning the roses for the winter.....I'll putz around inside for awhile.....

Cranes are the wave of the future, Bay Bridge, California, June 2006, by LHD

Opinions

2006-10-14T10:01:00.000-07:00

What do you think of the Measures on the Oregon Ballot.

Measure 39: Prohibits Public Body from Condemning Private Real Property if Intends to Convey to Private Party

Measure 40: Amends Constitution: Requires Oregon Supreme Court Judges and Court of Appeals Judges to be Elected by District

Measure 41: Allows Income Tax Deduction Equal to Federal Exemptions Deduction to Substitute for State Exemption Credit

Measure 42: Prohibits Insurance Companies from Using Credit Score or "Credit Worthiness" in Calculating Rates or Premiums

Measure 43: Requires 48-Hour Notice to Unemancipated Minor's Parent Before Providing Abortion; Authorizes Lawsuits, Physician Discipline

Measure 44: Allows Any Oregon Resident Without Prescription Drug Coverage to Participate in Oregon Prescription Drug Program

Measure 45: Amends Constitution: Limits State Legislators: Six Years as Representative, Eight Years as Senator, Fourteen Years in Legislature

Measure 46: Amends Constitution: Allows Laws Regulating Election Contributions, Expenditures Adopted by Initiative or 3/4 or Both Legislative Houses

Measure 47: Revises Campaign Finance Laws: Limits or Prohibits Contributions and Expenditures; Adds Disclosure, New Reporting Requirements

Measure 48: Amends Constitution: Limits Biennial Percentage Increase in State Spending to Percentage Increase in State Population, Plus Inflation

I haven't received Volume 2 of the Voter's Pamphlet yet.....

Pride

2006-10-11T19:06:00.000-07:00

Thinking back through the past.

In my social interactions, (even though I am a quiet person) I think I have a strong tendency to stir the pot to see what happens.

That's the deepest thought I have for today.....I should probably go do something else non-virtual write now....

Da Bay, Somewhere near the Pacific Ocean, California, June 2006, by LHD

Distinguished

2006-10-09T21:12:00.000-07:00

I count myself belonging to what I am sure is a small club.

I have now been made late for work by not only the monarchy branch (statement meant as what I understand the historical intention is of the branch); President Bush, but also the secretary of ex-archnemesis; Colin Powell.

Closing down freeways....tying up traffic to the coliseum for miles during a holiday which nearly only the bankers, unions, and postal workers get to take off....

(180 degree spin to seriousness to everyone....and I mean everyone who reads this whether you know me or not)

In your perception; what are my strengths and weaknesses?

Sailing into the new and old, Bay Bridge, California, June 2006, by LHD

Energy

2006-10-08T20:36:00.000-07:00

Today's Energy spent inefficiently.

I saw this in the latest VCOA rag and even though the writer did say that they are not an expert on the subject, some of this seemed to make sense.

The article had to do with the high cost of gas, some likely reasons behind that, and also energy; snippet below (actually the following is sorta long):

....I believe the real reason to be happy about high fuel prices is that it might actually spur the development of alternative energy sources and high efficiency machines. There is a lot of hype and hot air around this subject. Let me tell you what I think.

Hybrid Cars Not worth it! Economically speaking, are you ahead to sell your 850 and buy a small hybrid? No. The savings in gas costs would never pay for the new car. From an energy standpoint should you do it? Probably not. The energy required to build, ship, prep and sell the hybrid would most likely never be recovered by the decreased gas consumption. Hybrid cars are a fashion accessory. Celebrities like to drive them to the airport to get on their G4 and go somewhere cool. Pay no attention to the fact that the take-off and climb out in the G4 uses enough energy to run a V8 SUV for thousands of miles.

People buy hybrids in California to get access to the car pool lane for a lone driver. Hybrids are a complex solution to a fairly simple problem. If you want great gas mileage buy a small diesel. Speaking of energy used by airplanes, it takes about the same amount of fuel to fly the Oakland Raiders to New York to play the Jets as it does to run the entire Indianapolis 500. Don't let anybody put an energy guilt trip on you about being a motor sports fan.

Electric Cars This seems to have some potential. There is now an electric car, the Tesla Roadster, that goes from 0 to 60 mph in around 5 seconds, has a 135 mph top speed, and the manufacturer claims it will go 250 miles on a charge. It costs a lot, but sometimes real innovation starts life as toys for the rich.

Electric cars do cause some problems. About 70 percent of the electric power in the US is produced by burning coal, which is the largest source of greenhouse gases. You should figure that electric cars really run on coal, but the fire and the pollution are somewhere else. Not a perfect solution. Large scale charging of electric cars would mean more power plants, primarily burning coal. True, there are some efforts to use wind and solar power to generate electricity but there really isn't enough. And there is the little problem of where to get power when the wind isn't blowing and the sun isn't shining.

Hydrogen Fuel Pure smoke and mirrors! The general public and the press are slowly coming to the conclusion that energy industry people have known for many years: hydrogen is a manufactured commodity. It takes large amounts of electricity and/or natural gas to make a little hydrogen. In order to meet 10 percent of California's motor fuel requirement you would need to build several new coal or nuclear power plants dedicated to making hydrogen.

There is no fueling infrastructure. The current liquid fueling infrastructure for gasoline, refineries, pipelines, tanks, fuel stations has been under construction for a hundred years. A similar system for dispensing hydrogen would take decades to build.

Bio Fuels Some potential. The effort to turn corn and sugar into motor fuels seems to be gaining some ground and interest from investment banks and savvy business people. Think of this as fuel shifting. Ethanol and other bio fuel products effectively shift us away from importing crude oil, which is a good thing, primarily because of the political problems. The bad thing about bio fuels is that they actually require more energy to produce than they contain, and they are almost price competitive with gasoline primarily because of government corn subsidies. If you do an energy balance on a gallon of ethanol, you will discover that between the manufacture of fertilizer, which require large amounts of natural gas, processing, shipping, and farm operation that it required about 10 to 15 percent more energy to produce the gallon of ethanol that you can get back out of it. Most of the energy invested is in the form of natural gas, which is in short supply and will need to be imported, but probably not from the Middle East.

Synthetic Fuels Lots of potential. Synthetic fuel is a name given to liquid fuel products manufactured by rearranging the hydrocarbon molecules found in coal and tar sands. You can make a fuel very similar to diesel from coal. It is a proven technology.

South Africa used coal to manufacture fuel on a large scale during the time when they were under economic sanctions due to apartheid. It works, but it costs #3.50 to $4.00 per gallon. There is enough coal and tar sand in Montana alone to fuel the country for 200 years. Again, coal is the big source of greenhouse gases, so it isn't without problems.

Back to our friends the petroleum producers, speculators and traders. It is not in their interest to get the price of gasoline so high that we actually start to develop alternatives. They are right on the cusp now, so prices will be stable for awhile. Here is what they are banking on: we won't do anything but complain.....

-Lee Cordner, President, Volvo Club of America

I am not an energy expert myself. I am an avid recycler, but know in the back of my mind that the only material which doesn't take at least as much energy to recycle as it does to get from scratch is probably only aluminium (it takes a lot of energy to extract the metal from bauxite)....

Naptime

2006-10-07T19:31:00.000-07:00

I did go golfing today.

The course at Skamania is very nice with great views. It is also a technical course (my golf game lacks seriousness.....I lost many balls). Had fun though.

When I got back to Portland today, I took a 3 hour mega nap.

It was a fun trip, am feeling guilty 'bout not doing outside work with the weather being very nice this afternoon.

Funny, people's reactions when you show up to play golf nearly exactly at the start time with coffee cup in hand....my response...."I'm on time, I've got like 5 minutes"...

Where they make the chocolate coated Mustards, Ghirardelli Square, California, June 2006, by LHD

Nuts

2006-10-07T02:11:00.000-07:00

Things are never well planned after having a few.

I am at Skamania Lodge. I've never been up here before, but that's beside the point. I went to seminars/presentations today. Tonight I went drinking with the sales reps. Somehow I got talked into a short run after having many drinks.

Tommorrow, I'm supposed to get up early for a "shotgun" golf start.

Yeah....writing this blog cost zero time.....

"Stupid.....you're so stupid....."
-Kuni, UHF

Strive for Excellance

2006-10-02T19:09:00.000-07:00

Something I excel at:

Saying/Writing and doing socially stupid things.

(now for that Gemini 180 degree spin)

Last weekend I ended up in Seattle playing foosball.

The trip up involved a detour due to road construction closing I-5 between SR-500 and I-205 in Vancouver......did I mention this was a Saturday afternoon.

The night included, Thai food, seeing statues of Lenin and a Bridge troll, purchasing a record, drinks, Youtube, Foos against people that work for a major dot com (apparently they have a foos table at work and play "at least 3 times a day"), buying 4 pints of beer for 2 dollars (not including 100% tip), a skirmish which involved a drawn weapon, and dirt cheap burgers (which maybe aren't that good; except after imbibing alcohol.....good to me).

That weekend also went to the Museum of Flight. Saw an SR-71 and landed a WWI biplane (in the simulator with only a couple bounces). Going to the Museum makes me want to watch The Right Stuff and "Baa Baa Black Sheep".

We are poor little lambs......who have lost our way.....baaaa-baa-BAA.....

Detail, San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park, San Francisco, California, June 2006, by LHD

10 GOSUB 200

2006-09-29T19:01:00.000-07:00

Code as art.

Check it out here.

Who knew?????

Still Intrigued

2006-09-24T22:21:00.000-07:00

Being a relative geezer who is far from understanding what is new in this tangled web.

I'm still fascinated by things like this.

(yes, I grew up with a computer....I learned BASIC at an early age....Mosaic was hitting the mainstream when I started college and there was a thing called gopher or something similar...) howeverm the internet's seeming blending with the world outside of the matrix seems ongoing.....

Almost There

2006-09-24T20:24:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of the summer you have heard that I tore apart one of the soffits on the house for repairs.

From this past week and weekend after around 16 man hours (not including time for board sealers to dry)......its still not done, but close.

All the boards are cut now, just need to prime before setting in place....and try to remember how the old (the 1922 part of the house) corner went together.

Currently, highest on my christmas letter to Santa is a table saw (cutting boards with a jigsaw is not the most efficient way to do so......)

Retirement

2006-09-23T11:44:00.000-07:00

Another aircraft passes its way into the annals of history.

I just read that the Navy is retiring the F-14 Tomcat.

"Where'd who go?......"
-Wolfman

Mail

2006-09-22T20:20:00.000-07:00

Today's Mail

Envelope from the Citizen's Utility Board which reads "Fighting global warming: it's not rocket science!"

I thought about this for a little. Rocket science....involves science of high velocity projectiles (which is kinetics?).....global warming=kinetics....no.....rocket science....involves combustion and changes of states of energy....global warming=changes of states of energy chemistry....yes. So global warming is like rocket science.....if I was going to fight something without science what would it be.....probably religion.....so is this some sort of religious letter....wait let me open the envelope.

(pause while reading)

The letter has to do with a money donation to stop Coal Burning in Oregon (didn't realize that 33% of energy in this state comes from burning coal....actually this figure seems distorted, but anyhow). Coal burning=rocket science.....no not enough energy from the coal itself. Money donation=religion......sounds familiar......well I guess part of the theorem could be correct.

I received the Haynes manual for my car. Looking at the thickness of the 850 manual compared to the 240 manual one may first think that this car must have less parts that can be fixed (even though the vehicle is more complex electrically).....then you might realize that the 240 was made for a couple decades rather than (badged as such) for only half a decade.

Looking foward to 11/17.......based on the book and the trailer, the movie should be the darkest of the bunch and am guessing this go around not as lighthearted as the David Niven/Peter Sellers version.....

also, check out this interesting post aboot that latest thing brewing in electronica

Repairs

2006-09-17T19:33:00.000-07:00

Sometimes repairs can be more difficult than starting anew.

Last week I was carded at a pub in Madison, Wisconsin (I was also carded at a Cigar shop in Stillwater....along with a couple others.....none of us get why we were carded at a Cigar shop).

My wallet exploded at that point of the night. Well, at least the insert part which holds all my cards did.

I searched today for replacement wallet inserts. Looks like the only place I can get such a product (without expending further driving/time effort) is the internet.

It is possible to get your inkjet cartridges refilled at the mall......

Yavin, Fort Funston, California, June 2006, by LHD

A Sobering Trip

2006-09-16T21:47:00.000-07:00

The flight back was one of the few.
(to add to your boredom; a recap)

Thursday, 9/7/06
Bachelor Party
Quote of the Day: (from an Irishman, referring to a specific beer just tried) "It tastes like someone just crapped in my mouth. Not that I know what that tastes like, but this would be it."

No details to be made public other than, dinner was excellent, I had a lot to drink, and I managed to pull off my classic disappearing while drunk act during the course of the night.

Friday, 9/8/06
Groom's Dinner
Quote of the Day: "Look what I found!" (in reference to an acoholic beverage left behind which someone else picked up and was drinking....who know's where that beverage had been...)

Rough start to the day. Tuxes were picked up. Much wine drinking at an Irish pub. Learn something aboot Celtic Knots. Foosball.

Saturday, 9/9/06
Weeding
Quote of the Day: "That was the best ushered wedding I've ever been to"

Lots of pictures. Some Strongbow. A weeding. More pictures and drinks on a trolley. Trolley highlight: the 2 ushers and a groomsman during one of the photo stops, hop up on some rocks in the middle of a huge water fountain.....no one fell in....amazing seeing that at this point I think the coolers were running dangerously low on alcohol. Oh wait, the cooler races were pretty good too. A dinner. A groomsman trying to convince the Maid of Honour to eat cake which he had just soaked in butter. Bunch of dancing. Trying to polish off the kegs. Talking to the Irish. To sum up the night....the photos from the picture booth at the reception tell the best story.

Monday, 9/10/06
Boat Trip
Quote of the Day: (asked of a grizzled old man who rents boats from a Marina). "Are there any Wi-Fi hotspots nearby?"

We rented a 48-ft houseboat and took a short tour to park the thing. Grasshopper drinks. Yummy roast. Stoagies on the roof of the boat overlooking the river. About 5-10 degrees warmer and clearer skies, probably woulda had a bonfire. Invader Zim sometime after midnight.

Tuesday, 9/11/06
Boat Trip/Weeding Gift Opening
(unfortunate) Quote of the Day: "I think something just hit the side of the boat. That big box on the bow went overboard."

Took a cruise on the St. Croix River to Afton(?). There are some very big and nice houses on that river. That night, a little playstation intermixed with a weeding gift opening (I never knew this was an actual event which people are supposed to witness). I did note that most gifts seem to revolve around some sort of dish used for ??? and towelly sheet things, but not many (if any) tools and other things which could be used around the house. Good byes to the Irish (after the weeding I wanted to say Aigh a lot).

Wednesday, 9/12/06
Road Trip from Mahtomedi, MN to Madison, WI
Quote of the Day: (said excitedly as the Menomonie sign was spotted): "Mahna Mahna....do doo da do do..." That song is still stuck in my head as I type this.

4 hour drive. Wonder if Hanna-Barbera from that area as many signs and stops referred to Jellystone. Stop at the Indian Casino. $10 contribution to the "company" fund. Hotel on Capitol square. Pub crawl from hotel down State Street. Last stop KK Club (supposedly KK stands for Kollege Klub....unfortunately as the night wore on it was referred to as the KK-Klub). Pizza and Popcorn soooo good after not getting order of Quesadilla....

Thursday, 9/13/06
Madison, Cheesehead with return trip to 10,000 lakes.
Quote of the Day: (from a tour guide in response to a friend who says they lived there one year) "That doesn't count."

Added State Capitol to my collection. Learned that Frank Lloyd Wright was from that area and the Convention Center there is one of the last things he signed off on (only to be built something like 30 years later). Fireworks stand stop (learn that in Wisconsin, they can sell fireworks which people in Wisonsin can not buy....but people from other states can purchase them there....something is not logical there). Cheese stop too.....I still don't think Wisconsin cheese tops Tillamook cheese. Fireworks show and big bonfire in the backyard.

Friday, 9/14/06
The Mall
Quote of the Day: "My flight wasn't on the web as going from MSP to Atlanta. ATA and Air Trans Air are not the same."

Trip to the Mall. Big Snoopy is no longer there (its been 6-8 years since I've been to that mall). Lego(R) and Underwater Adventures(R) aquarium is still there. A couple years ago one of the sharks ate another shark at the aquarium (that woulda been interesting to see). The 2 year old didn't seem to enjoy it as much as we thought she might. One of the old-timers from the gang flies out; chill night with a movie (no drinking).

Saturday, 9/15/06
PDX Return

No good quotes. Just chores and sifting through a mound of mail. Should go to bed soon, my body thinks its a couple hours later than it actually is. I weighed myself; is it possible to gain 5+ pounds in a week?

Mahna Mahna......

Eerie and Cool

2006-09-06T21:08:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is Vacation.

As usual with my vacations I know the following: I have a plane ticket with certain dates. I have an inkling where I'll stay.

I found this interesting when I got home (it doesn't bother me, just unique). Phone message reminding me I arrive at MSP tomorrow and its being looked foward to. Also, that I've got myself booked through Tuesday with the rest of the week open. Felt eerie/but also kinda cool knowing I don't even have to think 'bout what I might be up to till Tuesday sometime.....just doing; that's probably me at my best....mindless doing.....

The cab picks me up in the morning, got all monthly bills paid, shortly will go out and put the yard debris barrel at the curb, doing laundry so I can pack, listening to The Mamas & Papas, and drinking beer 2 or 3 of the night (which I shouldn't do night before a night on the town type bachelor party.....just asking for trouble).

"Catch ya on the flip side" -Jack Swigert

Runaway

2006-09-05T21:19:00.000-07:00

Today's misinterpertation of a word chuckle.

A current work project involves a remodel of a hospital facility.

While up on the floor that was the psychiatric ward, the locked entry door adjacent to the one reminding law enforcement officials to lock up weapons in the safe while in the ward, read:

Warning. Elopement Possible.
(I thought it was a curious warning....especially if used with what that warning could mean.....who knows what really goes on behind those doors...)

Tonight's bill-paying background music: Rushmore soundtrack, Viva Las Vegas.

If I don't post tomorrow, last you'll have to hear from me for over a week......

Valley Forge Blue?, Portland, Oregon, May 2006, by LHD

Type A?

2006-09-04T20:32:00.000-07:00

I never think of myself as a Type A person, but am I?

Things done with my Labour Day Weekend.

Friday, toy'd around with a new heart monitor gizmo I ordered (think of it as a fancy watch which comes with a strap).

Saturday, I went to see the American Presidency: A Glorious Burden exhibit at the Oregon Historical Society Museum with one of my sisters. Lunch at a cafe near PSU.

Got a phono pre-amp so I could listen to my records. I've been dying to listen to records since going to Seattle and checking out the LP shop. Records.....sweet! Except now realizing the needle (or for those snazzy verbiage types; stylus) should be redone on the player (or again; turntable) as well. Picked up an unfinished (ie unstained/unprotected) DVD tower I ordered previously.

Worked some more on the family genealogy. If I can believe information found on the all-knowing web, I may hail from a paternal lineage who emigrated to Southern California 'round the turn of the last century from Kansas, originated in Maryland, and who might have been in this country since sometime before the Revolutionary War.

Sunday, picked weeds (from my dad though, I learned to use the less envionmental weed killer....). Some cleaning chores; groceries, worked some more on the family genealogy; noted that I need to print my e-ticket for my upcoming vacation.

Today, went to the gym and used the fancy watch. Looking foward to no longer having to put fingers on the bars just to know my heartrate. Made the first trip into a certain store in many years. Stopped at the office to pick up keys to a building we are working on ('cause I forgotta on Friday as I left for a Tuesday first thing site visit). Do they no longer make box fans?

Continued a search for a coat rack (actually stand, but I call it a coat rack). Noted I may be too discerning when it comes to even the smallest bits of furniture. I first note the quality of construction before considering style or function. I almost tore off a "leg" of a stand I was looking at at nameless cross-country uber-chain. The search will continue. (I'm happy to throw coats on the front couch, but guests...who are few and far between....probably do not feel the same way?)

Finished Goodfellas extra features. Current DVD in the player: (who you gonna call?)

Walked approx 1/3 of a mile for a few brews and some dinner. Finished the article about the social survey on the Pacific Coast in the 20s.

Thinking on the way back 'bout how others perceived engineers. It's seemed we automatically would know how to fix something or about physical (not biological) science questions. Mechanics excel over engineers for fixing things (we know theory not application), but for science or wrote recall of a scientific principle; I can't remember most things. Good at solving problems or approaching something with a problem solving attitude but not wrote recall. In these cases physicists or mathematicians are better at theory; engineers are better at practical application. And I'm guessing scentists may not be the best at wrote recall either (this seems to be limited to biological sciences?)

(Even those this was a couple years ago at this point) Am thinking about writing the Chinese to adjust their calendar. This year appears to be the year of the monkey. Coming up this weekend will be my second donning of a monkey suit this year. It will be fun, but still; year of the monkey....any takers? Coments?

Now, after adding links and picture with caption, must sleep.....

Ledbetter Point, Long Beach, Washington, March 2006, by LHD

The Past

2006-08-31T21:07:00.000-07:00

From recently and from a ways back.

I visited my friend Christian (Sister C) up in Seattle this weekend. Had a great time.

Gotta see the locks (and the really big fall run Chinook!). I've always had an interest in ships, was fun to watch the locks in action. Made a trip to the market and we BBQ'd what really turned out to be great Albino Trout. I forgot how awesome the market is up north. Didn't make it for 25c (I searched and there no longer appears to be a cent symbol on a QEWRTY device) PBR's though, maybe next time. I bolted a table together, so that took care of some of the inner project drive for the weekend. All in all, good trip, have to go again soon.

It has been years since I have been in Seattle proper, was a little bummed to see the big red R is now a beige big T.

I found that I tend to spend an inordinate amount of time in Bookstores, Record Shops (the kind with real vinyl...I truely miss a good record shop), and Museums. I was reminded of the age-old lesson why I stopped going into Bookstores.....I have a problem....

(of course on the flip side) I found that I have a tendency now to curse at people driving less than the speed limit in the left lane on a 2-lane freeway, and anymore I seem to spend at least a full day decompressing from the week behind :(.

From way back; tonight I started reading an article in the Oregon Historical Quarterly which made me think about the current state of affairs in government. Is this much different that an era close to 100 years ago in this country....are the ideals similar to Wilson's? At least the introduction made me think that:

There were fatal flaws in President Woodrow Wilson's belief that fighting a war against Imperial Germany in 1917 would make the world safe for democracy. The Great War of 1914-1918 had already set in motion events that would undermine Wilsonian idealism and overwhelm movements toward political and social reform. Even as the United States and its allies celebrated victory on November 8,1918, hope and exultation dissolved into pessimism, materialism, and social conflict. While the United States and Japan gained prestige and international influence, World War I contributed to the collapse of European empires and spawned the Bolshevik Revolution. The millions of dead and displaced victims of war, revolution, and a deadly, worldwide flu pandemic further undermined international stability. Peace did not end conflict. American forces continued to conduct "Gunboat Diplomacy" in the Caribbean and China, U.S. soldiers fought against Bolshevik revolutionaries in northern Russia and Siberia, and U.S. Marines faced years of guerrilla warfare with insurgents in Nicaragua.

That almost 100 years later sounds eerily familiar......

Astoria-Megler Bridge, Astoria, Oregon, March 2006, by LHD

Way Back East

2006-08-29T23:04:00.000-07:00

I've just looked at a cousin's photos from a recent business trip to India.

This one seemed most important to me.....

More grateful and serious blog post later in week when more time available.....

On the left side of the US there are 3 states 2 cities and 1 theme park...of course Texas Ohio NY and DC are important too, India, August 2006, by JD

Nye

2006-08-25T23:09:00.000-07:00

Autumn draws upon us.

Signs of the times.

I saw Canadian Geese in the pond at work last week.

I got home at 9PM tonight, the sun had set.

The sun is starting to get up closer to the time I try to.

Soon, the skies will be gray until summer and the sun will be getting up after I do and setting well before I may be leaving work....how will I fare this winter??

Ships Anchor, Columbia River Maritime Museum, Astoria, Oregon, March 2006, by LHD

Junior?

2006-08-21T21:23:00.000-07:00

It is you Junior.

I have a bad habit of overusing a movie quote and spurting out in situations which make sense to me, but if you don't know the quote.....you probably won't draw the parallel and just give me a "What the F?" look.

Currently overused in reference to mistakes (or especially spelling or grammar errors);

....But in Latin, Jehovah starts with an I. (sometimes prefaced with Idiot,..)

(an oldie, but a goodie....usually used to convince someone how easy the plan is or the final step in something....this one doesn't read the same as spoken....you have to know the scene I guess) ....and right-up-up-up-over the bridge.....
alternately; It's a Mother Beautiful Bridge...

Finally

2006-08-19T20:45:00.000-07:00

Film rolls have been developed.

Car has new oil and incremental tuneup.....next at 110k. Car is happier.

Tomorrow, work......

Lewis and Clark Bridge, Rainier, Oregon, March 2006, by LHD

Caps A Lot

2006-08-18T21:07:00.000-07:00

Something small surprises me at small naivetes.

I read this about a certain group trying to band together to admonish a key on a keyboard.

In my mind products may cost more and buildings could take longer to build without this key.

Technical drawings prepared with a computer (or an even older method, using stickyback lettering generated by a typewriter....or even handwritten) usually make exclusive use of this key to make all the lettering on the drawing easier to read.

Do people really no longer take the time to read and process what they may have written???

Maintaining

2006-08-14T20:29:00.000-07:00

A Short Story About Garage Door Openers, Composting and a Flashlight

According to the Owner's Manual I stumbled across the weekend. Garage Doors Openers are supposed to be adjusted monthly. I figured why not give it a shot.

Garage Door Hinges, Shafts and any noted bearings oiled.
Garage Door Closing and Opening Travel Stops adjusted.
Door Closing and Opening Forces adjusted.
Chain tension readjusted.

Judging from the amount of adjustments required, this has either a) never been done or b)hasn't been done since the opener was installed (guessing sometime in the 80s). The door prior to adjustment would have injured a foot or crushed something before being retuned.

The Garage Door is now a happy door. I'll have to use it more often.

In pursuing a more organic existence (and to help reduce the recent increase in barrels of yard debris around the house) I'm trying composting. We'll see how that turns out.

I was reading last night about bugs and damage they can do to roses; most insects are nocturnal. Armed with a flashlight at 10PM I was poking around the rose bushes. That is definitely a different world than during the day. I was also shocked to see a 'possum sitting there on the ground chilling out next to one of the plants. Surprised cause I live in the city.....used to see things like that at my folks house growing up, but that was on the edge of town; then I realized that I live within 2 miles of a wetland.

The crickets were loud last night and the dragonflies are still out in force......

Manly Beach, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Bare

2006-08-07T20:20:00.000-07:00

There are now patches of earth between plants in the yard.

Small ecosystems have been destroyed.

Staining the deck wasn't completed due to time constraints from other sources.

Mysteries abound in the web.......

Someplace not sure where, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Empty Toys

2006-08-03T21:35:00.000-07:00

Techno-Gizmos

Weather Station

Current Status; uninstalled. After reading recommended sensor locations, realized I should have thought about the anemometer location beforehand (that and I live within 1.5 miles of the airport.....the local area's best calibrated, most accurate weather station). May be installed before summer's end.

Shortwave Radio

I've always wanted one, now I have one. It is cool to listen to broadcasts from other countries, unfortunately Europe and the Middle East are (technically) biased toward everywhere else in the world, but West Coast North America. I haven't ventured forth into the world of foreign language broadcasts, but I find myself listening to Voice of Russia, Radio Habana Cuba, Radio New Zealand International, Radio Australia, and occasional forays to China Radio International and Radio Japan (and all minus the internet....course live-streaming would probably gain better fidelity.....).

Thanks to Radio Australia I heard aboot Mel Gibson's drunk rantings 2 days before US coverage and it is interesting listening to state broadcast radio aboot Fidel's health and US interference.

Current broadcast, Voice of Russia and some sort of spooky broadcast along the lines of "Chicken Heart"/War of the Worlds/From the Earh to the Moon.

If anyone has any frequencies (with time's/locations) I should tune into, chime in.

Question I've been asked twice in the past couple months after discussing current affairs: Sounds like you've done well, are you happy?

Goin' North the Rush is On

2006-07-28T19:54:00.000-07:00

Not to Alaska, but at least home.

After spending an hour and a half working my way 17 miles North (after a week that I can only describe as steadily declining) I have the following statistics and thoughts:

The Car Trip Computer claims that over 3500 miles, the car averages 23 mpg and 27 mph. Considering I spend a majority of time in that car on the highway.....I must drive slow.

I wonder if we could pass a measure to change the bridges across the Columbia Slough and over to Hayden Island into Toll Bridges. The booths would be located (going south) at the South end of the I-5 Bridge and somewhere before the Delta Park exit. This would turn the voting measure into an Oregon measure (as the I-5 bridge would involve 2 states).

Revenue could be used to extend the mass transit line to Vancouver City center as a "gift" from the City of Portland/Multnomah County to the City of Vancouver (seeing that the Clark County voters turned it down originally).

Alternately, revenue could be used to build an elevated freeway above the current I-5 corridor. Infrared license plate readers would be used to fine people with out of state plates for driving on it.

Of course the ideal answer would be to annex Clark County into Oregon, but I guess for less property tax, those people up North like to pay Oregon Income Tax, (occassionally) Washington State Tax, and pump their own gas.

Thoughts, opinions, suggestions?

If I Were King of the Forrrgh-est, Taronga Zoo, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Hot Games

2006-07-25T21:33:00.000-07:00

It has been near or over 100 degrees since Friday.

Tonight is much cooler. The weekend seemed too hot to do much of anything productive around the house.

I did plop myself in front of the computer and work through a computer game. A while back I stumbled across an "older" list of the "20 greatest Adventure Games." I've always been a sucker for adventure games (something to do with a sick inner drive to solve problems I guess.....that and they are silly games......). I resolved to play the list.

Most games I've played before. I started working through the list this winter. Day of the Tentacle (which is a funny game....recommended for anyone who still has the hardware or wherewithall to take up such a task). The Secret of Monkey Island (a very funny game....a game about pirates and monkeys.....what could be better?). King's Quest VI (a technically good piece of software....game isn't that funny though, but from Sierra).

This weekend's game: Broken Sword; Shadow of the Templars. This game was originally published in the US under the name "Circle of Blood". The game had a solid engrossing story. I sat down and couldn't stop playing.....typical gamer....I'll stop in an hour....OK 'nother hour.....shootz I have to almost be done now; just another hour.

I was productive Sunday though, made it to the gym and made good progress on getting the floor plan of my house drafted. Once that's done, then not only will I have a useful tool for planning house projects, but I will be able to calculate the volume of the attics to figure out how much ventilation they need and the yardage of paint I'll need to paint the exterior.

Current Movie in the DVD Player: Goodfellas
Current Book: Great Expectations

Things on the list to do: Finish houseplan and get that soffit put together before attempting window repairs. Clean. Sleep and Eat. All in random order.....

10

2006-07-17T22:45:00.000-07:00

Not the movie with Bo Derek.

10 more pounds and I'll have reached my goal.

I just read this interesting essay aboot Myspace.

I am a mapping geek. Updated sidebar blog of note.

Be vawy Quiet, Taronga Zoo, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Or Maybe Not

2006-07-10T20:59:00.000-07:00

I tried it the other night and it worked.

Who knows what happened.

I watched the final match down at a local British pub. Fun crowd. Part for the Italians, part for the French. And some who toward the end of the game, with the score 1 all, cheering "C'mon Englund!"

My heritage is mostly Franko-Germanic so needless to say who I was rooting for.

(as is the hot topic of the match) Very curious what was said to Zidane.....

Current CD in the CD Player: Plans, Death Cab for Cutie.

Emu, Taronga Zoo, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Eureka

2006-07-08T09:54:00.000-07:00

They Found It.

The neighbour must have figured out I've been stealing Wi-Fi at home for almost a year now.

Am sitting down at the closest coffeeshop I could find with access. The absolute nearest one closed on the 7th for reason x? There was a mysterious note on the front door for why they closed. Hopefully it isn't so they can open a Starbucks. Even though there isn't one closeby, we really don't need one in the neighbourhood.

Of course, the Mcmenamins has free Wi-Fi, but don't feel like having some monstrous breakfast just to check the internet this morning.

Tomorrow's the big game, don't miss it.

Current Movie in the DVD Player: The Blues Brothers

"Its got a cop motor, a 440 cubic inch plant, cop tires, cop suspension, cop shocks, its a model made before catalytic convertors, so it runs good on regular gas."

"Its 106 miles to Chicago, we've got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, its dark and we're wearing sunglasses."

Koala, Taronga Zoo, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Mussolini's Space

2006-07-04T16:43:00.000-07:00

D*mned dirty Italians.

It was fun (and surprising at the turnout of people) watching the game down at Pioneer Courthouse Square.

I won't even say who I'm hoping will win the cup now.

Hopefully, tonight will be able to see the fireworks from near the house.

Current ability to hang the gutter back on the house nill due to the beers had while watching the game. I think I'll take a nap instead.

Current movie in the DVD player: Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure

Tasmanian Devil, Taronga Zoo, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Kick the Loot

2006-07-02T10:52:00.000-07:00

How does a team win a quarterfinal by rolling around on the ground feigning death cause someone looked at them the wrong way?

If its ever replayed, watch the England/Portugal match.

(damned Portueguese)

I really hope the Germans wipe out the rest of the competition.

From the literature bit of life; finished another book in the "100 Greatest Books ever written" set.

Treasure Island
Robert Louis Stevenson

Warning: Book End Spoiler Below

The bar silver and the arms still lie, for all that I know, where Flint buried them; and certainly they shall lie there for me. Oxen and wain-ropes would not bring me back again to that accursed island; and the worst dreams that ever I have are when I hear the surf booming about its coasts, or start upright in bed, with the sharp voice of Captain Flint still ringing in my ears: 'Pieces of eight! Pieces of eight!'

Well put, Jim 'awkins, well put.....

A Dingo, Taronga Zoo, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

String Theory Logic

2006-06-26T21:33:00.000-07:00

Throughout the day; thoughts......jotted down just now.

I'm excited that the Beavers won. I am more excited that my school beat my brother's school this year.

The office is open for the the day of the founding of Quebec City. So much for camping that weekend.

I had one too many at the pub tonight and will be less effective at work tommorrow. The (ex)brewmaster of my favourite pub is opening their own place soon.

Whenever you talk to someone about dating they always want to talk about what your "passion" is and groups you frequent. If your passion turns out to be everything, there are no groups you truely frequent and fit into. What do you do?

Almost every woman who sparks some sort of interest seems to always have some sort of male attachment thereby nullifying or defeating the purpose of trying.

Italy......dirty bastards.

Ukraine. Way to go! Ukrainian women are hot (I've met 2 in my short experiences in life).

I'm lazy.

Current outdoor air temperature 91F. Window shaker on and making the house sneezy with dust (now that I've actually run the thing, first thing to do the next weekend for housework is pop the top again and clean out the filter and vacuum the housing). Plus though, pretty sure from the age of the machine it's R-12 (which is banned, but as long as there are no leaks is still the best of the refrigerants).

According to zillow.com, house worth more than I think I could sell it for. Dad sold his boat :(.

3 hours time difference between you and the project location is not helpful. Sleeping an extra few hours would be mint.

Upcoming trip will be for a friends weeding in September. Current planned time for self vacations in 2006....zero.

I almost wish thermal mass did not exist....the floor feels warmer than the air around me.

Go Ghana!

I should have went to the gym today, screw it beers and the game were a better choice.....

HMS Bounty Replica, Darling Harbour, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Now for Sports and The Weather

2006-06-25T22:52:00.000-07:00

The Moon and Sixpence, Portland, Oregon

England Beats Ecuador

Friend's House, Portland, Oregon

OSU Beats UNC. One Game Left for the Decider.

Portland International Airport, Portland, Oregon

High Temperature 97 deg F.

Tommorrow is supposed to get up to 100F........

HMAS Vampire, Darling Harbour, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Toto

2006-06-17T19:39:00.000-07:00

I only have two things to say aboot today's games.

Way to go Ghana!

Don't do the same thing Thursday.

Tommorrow (thanks to the local sales reps); off to see the Champ Cars......

Henri IV, Australian National Maritime Museum, Sydney, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Da Roof

2006-06-11T20:58:00.000-07:00

Today's Homeowner Lesson:

Roof patch cement and Butyl Rubber sealants are not the same thing.

Currently in the DVD Player: The Searchers.

Charlemagne, Les genies del la mer, Australian National Maritime Museum, Sydney, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Fleet Week

2006-06-09T23:34:00.000-07:00

Well, rather more weekend nowadays.

Rose Festival started last weekend. (Portland is known as the Rose City and well this is the yearly festival)

This weekend is called fleet week. The Navy vessels come and dock down at the sea wall at waterfront park and the festival with amusement rides is in full swing. Its unfortunate that the fleet has shrunk to a 4 ship (USN) fleet (the USS New Jersey came once), the ships are under heavy guard, and the river is closed off to recreational boating. Use to be so much more festive when taking a tour of a ship wasn't so fortified and cruising up to the ships with the more capital minded crew selling hats and the freer women trading top peaks for hats.

This weekend is also the grand floral parade. A Portland tradition I still don't understand is taping off and setting out chairs to mark your spot to watch the parade days in advance. Nobody steals chairs and respects others marked spots. (To the general readership....which has shrunken down to maybe one reader) Do other cities do this for parades too?

Alright, off to get a few hours of sleep before watching the UK game........

More Like Myself

2006-06-07T22:26:00.000-07:00

"Its Getting Better all the Ti-i-ime"

These past couple weekends have been ramshackle quick paced feats, but just what was needed for me to feel myself.

The two weekends involved wedding activities for a friend who I have known longer than any other friend. First weekend camping somewhere in the Mendocino Wilderness in California. Lots of storytelling, remembrances, adventuring for water, snow, bear barrels, campfire and clear skies. It was a great time even though Tuesday found myself back at work barely able to keep awake (after a long hike, car drive and plane flight back Monday.....gotta remind myself I'm young.....)

Thursday and Friday days off. Did chores and began catching housework/yardwork up....which will never be caught up with on my own at my rate. Thursday was 30 day. Didn't do much but mope. Worked out. Some friends did remember the day and call. For those I'm thankful.

Friday back to Cali again. None wedding activities included a visit to the hang-gliders at Fort Funston (right name?), a meal at the "original" Mel's Diner (see American Graffitti), a visit to the historic ships on the wharf and Ghirardelli Square, a cool shop called Sports Basement, tramping around Treasure Island and Berkeley trying to get photos of the New Bay Bridge under construction, seeing Tatanka in Golden Gate Park.

The wedding was the largest I've ever been in and my (reluctant, but) first time caught in a tux. I'm not gonna go too in depth into the wedding, but do need to say this. I am very happy for my friend and his wife. I didn't get to talk to the wife much more than a few snippets here and there, but I did get to talk to friends and relatives. Friends and relatives are a great reflection of a person and judging from them, he has found an incredible lady. From my prior knowledge of the groom she has found a great guy.

Groggy again on Tuesday with a cough that won't go 'way but feeling better.

My only regret of the weekend; talking to cute SF/Boston girl with good sense of humour and seems city and outdoorsy both; who's goodbye somehow shocked me into saying "talk to you soon"......but me not recalling a name and failing to get contact info......must remember in the future not to be sleep lacked from a sickness beforehand, plus having more alcohol than I've had in a few months in my system which would result in such a faux pas......

Monorail, Darling Harbour Sydney, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

The Continuing Saga of Bungalow Bill

2006-05-30T22:44:00.000-07:00

Two Bad and One Good
(things for Thursday as presented by MSN at various points of the years)

People born in May or June are more likely to be depressive and are more likely to commit suicide.

If my current social situation continues as is for another two more years, I may as well join a monastery because that seems to be all I'll be good for.

(this following one not from MSN)

I have met most of my goals for my twenties and I had a great camping trip this past weekend.

OK, I cheated.....two bad, two good.......but well on my way to playing alongside Jack Lemmon or Walter Matthau in a movie.....

SGA Building, Sydney, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Thank you Misc

2006-05-07T20:52:00.000-07:00

Random bits from the past weeks/weekends:

Last weekend I volunteered for this and helped paint someone's house. I now know what I am up against this summer.

In the local neighborhood association newspasper, Concordia News, I saw a blurb about changing some of the streets which are still gravel potted ancient things into greenspaces. Sounds like a good idea and helps Portland live up to its best cities in the US to walk city standards.

In the quarterly publication from the Historical Society, Oregon Historical Quarterly, I read a review of a book called Landscapes of Conflict: The Oregon Story, 1940-2000 by William G. Robbins. Its an environmental history book that "begins at the state level and follows the ripples of political dissent outward into the national mainstream." Brings to mind the state's environmental cadence of give and take.....big fish runs; now endangered mostly due to the dams. Field burning. All beaches are public access. The bottle bill. The Mt. Hood Freeway that never was. Cutting down the forests "under the guise of encouraging more vigorous second-growth forests". The Willamette River as a Superfund site. The Urban Growth Boundary legislation. Governor Tom McCall's famous quote "come visit us again and again.....But for heaven's sake don't come here to live." Sounds like an interesting book covering the give and take of leaving things as they are for nature to take care and man's needs to work the land for his use.

The fittest I ever was did not involve a gym. It involved running on a track for 20 minutes each (or maybe it was every other) day. It involved swinging an axe (if you have trees and they fall down in your yard.....it takes a long time, a lot of digging, and axe swinging to get the stumps out of the ground by hand). It involved a manual labour job requiring shovelfuls of green bean trimmed ends that didn't make it on the not food conveyors onto the not food conveyors.

Today I took a nap.........

"Only an Engineer would take a photo of the bridge support", Sydney Harbour Bridge, New South Wales, September 2005, photo by LHD, title by CMD

Lost

2006-04-27T20:41:00.000-07:00

Found Missing and Wanted Back

Sense of Humour

Will trade General Apathy OBO........

Scary Clown Amusement Park, North Shore, Sydney Harbour, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Dollars

2006-04-26T12:27:00.000-07:00

I saw this today during lunch:

Many middle income Americans lack insurance

All I have to add for those who've ever seen a doctor and paid (I don't mean an insurance co-payment, I mean paid them the cost of seeing them) or if your employer has ever pulled back medical coverage drastically due to insurance's escalating costs I say "No Duh" to the study.

I think there is something wrong/fishy with the medical industry...

Ornery

2006-04-24T22:08:00.000-07:00

Filling out an invite minus common sense.

Ward recently received an invitation to a weeding Ward is required to attend this summer.

Even though Ward will be the only one attending; he is tempted to sign up for 10 Salmon dinners, 15 filet mignons, and 4 Ravioli dinners.

Somehow, though, I think Ward would be the only one appreciating that "joke"........

Campbells Storehouses, The Rocks, Sydney, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Ouch

2006-04-18T21:54:00.000-07:00

Just like I remember thinking back in high school.

Weights blow.......

Harbour Bridge, Sydney, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Question for these Times

2006-04-10T21:15:00.000-07:00

Do People still write letters?

Or is it all electronica......

Detail, Opera House, Sydney, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Detail, Opera House, Sydney, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Staccato

2006-04-09T19:55:00.000-07:00

Weekend Events

Redwood Curtain
Lanford Wilson
Sometimes Ward feels like the vet.

Ruckert Lieder
Gustav Mahler
Songs needed a reader board. Ward speaks little German.

Shoes
@asics
It's too hard to run in boots or "classic" shoes.

Bringing Up Baby
Howard Hawks
Over the top slapstick. AFI 100 years....100 movies #97.

2001: A Space Odyssey
Stanley Kubrick
Only makes sense if you read the book (Arthur C Clarke).

Shower
Clean

Blog
Boarded

Finito.

Circular Quay, Sydney, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Travelnomics

2006-04-05T22:40:00.000-07:00

Ward was just online looking at airfare.

It is cheaper to fly to the Bay Area from here than it is to drive.

Ward could fly to Portland, Maine for $33x, but a flight to Minneapolis costs more.

Ward always did want to see the other USA Portland.....

Saint Mary's Cathedral, Sydney, New South Wales, September 2006, by LHD

Dirty Boots

2006-04-04T20:45:00.000-07:00

Ward just had an hourlong conversation about soles.

Ward sent his boots in to a factory authorized repair shop for resoling. Ward was warned that the boot manufacturer was changing distributors, the last sole his size was in the shop, and it might be 6+ months before the repair shop saw any more of those soles.

Apparently something went wrong with the repair and Ward was forced to chose an alternate sole.

From the same sole manufacturer, but Ward still prefers the tread pattern and profile of the long lost sole.

Ward hopes the Italians get their act together......and that he is not being lied to.......

Sleepy Thursday

2006-03-30T21:03:00.000-08:00

Ward is not supposed to proclaim this;

Ward gave up caffeinated beverages for Lent.

Ward grows weary of water, sprite and juices....

Centrepoint (AMP) Tower, Sydney, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Keep Oregon Green

2006-03-27T21:09:00.000-08:00

That mantra has been in the Northwest for some time.

Ward recently bought a Brita filter and wondered if its recyclable.

So, naturally, Ward looked it up on the all-knowing internet....google.

Supposedly, Ward could recycle a Brita filter in the UK, Ireland, France and Germany.

Ward, wrote to Brita USA to ask them about recycling Brita filters or shipping Brita filters internationally for recycling.

Brita USA's response is that due to ion-exchange with the water and the heavy metals that are pulled out of the water.....Brita filters can not be recyled. International Brita's website says all Brita components have been recyclable since 1992......1 in 4 germans return their filters for recycling.

Who should Ward believe?

(Naturally Ward wrote International Brita to ask them the same question)

ANZAC War Memorial, Sydney, New South Wales, September 2005, by LHD

Crazy Clowns

2006-03-26T21:35:00.000-08:00

Ward's Sisters had an extra ticket for the Cirque de Soleil travelling show.

Varekai.

Ward went.

Ward was confused by the sign reading "North American tour; Portland, Seattle, Vancouver, Miami."

One of Ward's Sisters figured it must be Miami, ID.

One of these kids is not like the other.......

Condo Sunset, Oahu, Hawai'i, July 2005, by LHD

Ward Picks

2006-03-24T21:31:00.000-08:00

How fare ye in pickin' da future?

Ward's team didn't make it past the first round. Thar team that beat his team is still in the tourney.

Ward has managed to pick Memphis vs. UCLA, Villanova, and UConn.

Ward wonders why Wally Pilot is RIP 2004 and will never appear in the tourney again.....

Honolulu and the State Capitol Building, Oahu, Hawai'i, July 2005, by LHD

Honolulu and Diamondhead, Ohau, Hawai'i, July 2005, by LHD

Sold My Soul?

2006-03-21T21:53:00.000-08:00

Tonight, I attended a marketing focus group.

I earned more than my billed hourly rate for my time spent.

Shootz, if I can find 8 of those a day for the rest of my life, I could retire........

Statue of Columbia, Punchbowl Cemetery of the Pacific, Oahu, Hawai'i, July 2005, by LHD

I'm Looking Through You

2006-03-20T20:07:00.000-08:00

The Beatles

My favourite Beatles album: Rubber Soul
(we're all a little like that aren't we?)

Most listened to song on that album: Nowhere Man
(isn't he abit like you and me?......of course Drive My Car, Norwegian Wood, Michelle, What Goes On, and Girl get listened to as well.....oh yeah and the rest of the LP)

Spent some time this weekend looking for a replacement phono needle and a phono pre-amp, might resolve that this coming weekend.

Sunday, my sister called and wanted to go for a drive/hike. Result: Leadbetter Point. Hike #1 in the Blue Book.

Manoa Falls, Oahu, Hawai'i, July 2005, by LHD

One Man's Junk is Another Mans Treasure

2006-03-15T21:24:00.000-08:00

Leafing through all of today's mail, I received the following love letters:

TruGreen Chem Lawn. Spring Treatment for just $29.95, plus a free lawn analysis. My lawn means more.
Mental Translation: Green Paint. Chemicals will leach into soils and kill fish.

The Easton Press. Today more than ever we need to understand other great world cultures. The Insightful reference is your key.
Mental Translation: I thought I was already getting "the 100 greatest books ever written."

National Wildlife Federation. Your FREE bear club notepad and adress labels are enclosed! Claim your FREE Khaki backpack.
Mental Translation: Will enjoy the notepad, and will add the address labels to the pile that grows faster than can be used; but just because I claim to be a sport fisherman doesn't mean I necessarily want to save all wildlife.

MetroArts Inc. Young Artists Debut! Concerto Concert. A gala concert spotlighting the eight outstanding winners of the 12th Annual Young Artists Concerto competition accompanied by members of the Oregon Symphony and Oregon Ballet Theatre orchestras.
Mental Translation: No thoughts; may pass this on to others.

NFPA Codes Plus. Do jobs right the first time....you may not get a seconds chance! NFPA 70E and handbook set. Prevent costly electrical accidents before they happen!
Mental Translation: Jeezus, just because I ordered the Fire Protection Handbook, does not make me interested in the National Electric Code.....I'm a Mechanical Engineer doofus's.

This concludes our trip through the ritual review of typical (and mostly only) mail I receive.

Sunset, Sunset Beach, North Shore Oahu, Hawai'i, July 2005, by LHD

Quick Pic

2006-03-12T21:28:00.000-08:00

3x(?) Ford, Cruise Night, Oahu, Hawai'i, June 2005, by LHD

Fast Cars and Fast Women

2006-03-06T21:31:00.000-08:00

In reality; much of the Former, but none of the latter.

This weekend was the 50th Annual Portland Roadster Show. Naturally, I went with my dad. Everytime I go to the show or a cruise in or rod run, makes me want to dole out some cash for an old clunker and spend some time in the garage.

Also, went and saw work my friends are doing on their house. To put it mildly (and remember construction is part of my livelihood), I underestimated what they had described to me last summer when I had a chance to visit (briefly). Ummm, the joke could be in asking if there was a house on that lot to begin with. I jest, it is very cool and am excited to see the turn out (specially after living in an eternal construction zone, I have an inkling of what that might feel like).

End of the night, my sisters' place to put the registration on one of their cars. This seems like a silly statement, but the cover on the licence plate ended up taking a jury rigged wrench to get off in order to put the sticker in its rightful place.

Oh, they had a small Oscars gathering. Movies I saw that won something this year: Walk the Line, Wallace and Gromit, and March of the Penguins (surprisingly for someone who enjoys movies...thats it). Did I win the Oscar picks competition this year.....shockingly no, having seen none of the nominated films.....

Who knows, maybe this year I'll venture forth and see the Hollywood "great" movies.......

Waipio Valley, Big Island, Hawai'i, May 2005, by LHD

Waipio Valley, Big Island, Hawai'i, May 2005, by LHD

Waipio Valley, Big Island, Hawai'i, May 2005, by LHD

(oh and for anyone wondering, the last question was asked in honest curiosity, not jest)

Ignoramous Asks

2006-03-03T21:44:00.000-08:00

I (mostly) understand why during this season it is acceptable to only have fish on Fridays.

But if I were to become a vegetarian, why (might) it be acceptable to have fish, but not other meats?

Sidenote, judging from the line down the street.....many people didn't see Walk the Line when it first came out....get out and see it......tsa good movie......

Akaka Falls, Big Island, Hawai'i, May 2005, by LHD

Jokes

2006-02-26T09:28:00.000-08:00

Humour and a list from a trade rag:

Public Execution
Three condemned people are to be executed via the guillotine.

The first condemned person steps up, a minister. The lever is pulled, but the blade doesn't come down. The minister cries out "God knows I am innocent!" He is pardoned.

The second condemned person is a revolutionary agitator. The lever is pulled, but the blade doesn't come down. The man cries out "The revolution cannot be stopped!" He is pardoned.

The third condemned person is an engineer. Once again, the lever is pulled, but the blade doesn't come down. He looks up, points up, and says, "I think your problem si that the cable is binding right here....."

Dilbert(R) Comic by Scott Adams
A: It takes years of training to be an engineer.
A: But you don't need any training whatsoever to be an engineer's boss.
A: It's unskilled labor without the labor.
B: I could do that.

Instructions for Life in the New Millennium from the Dalai Lama:
1. Take into account that great love and great achievements involve great risk.
2. When you lose, don't lose the lesson.
3. Follow the three Rs: Respect for self, Respect for others, Responsibility for all your actions.
4. Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck.
5. Learn the rules so you know how to break them properly.
6. Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.
7. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.
8. Spend some time alone every day.
9. Open your arms to chane, but don't let go of your values.
10. Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.
11. Live a good, honorable life. Then when you get older and think back, you'll be able to enjoy it a second time.
12. A loving atmosphere in your home is the foundation for your life.
13. In disagreements with loved ones, deal only with the current situation. Don't bring up the past.
14. Share your knowledge. It's a way to achieve immortality.
15. Be gentle with the earth.
16. Once a year, go someplace you've never been before.
17. Remember that the best relationship is one in which your love for each other exceeds your need for each other.
18. Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.
19. Approach love an cooking with reckless abandon.

Quirky engineers........

Collapsed Sea Arch, Onomea Bay, Big Island, Hawai'i, May 2005, by LHD

Art

2006-02-23T20:49:00.000-08:00

Do you every yearn for the creativity you feel you once had?

This weekend was an art weekend.

Friday Night I went to see a Music in Context presentation with one of my sisters. The topic was Music and Rebellion. Performed pieces were by Bob Dylan, Beethoven. One of the main presenters is a volunteer assistant to the conductor of the Oregon Symphony. This was a very cool presentation placing the music with the author's biography and completely living up to its name (meaning it put it in context). My sister is very excited for the next in the series....imagine I will be getting a mailer for it soon. Next concert presentation is Friday, May 19.

Saturday I saw the movie/documentary Boys of Baraka with my sisters and their friends. (Last minute invite and decision on my part). Very good film. Apparently there is (or was) a program that took children (middle school or just about to enter middle school) children at risk in the Baltimore, Maryland area and sent them to Africa for 2 years to study and prepare them for high school. The documentary says about 76% (forgive my memory for numbers if wrong) of children do not graduate high school in Baltimore. The program let the kids focus on just being kids and talking through problems. I've never been to Baltimore, but watching the contrast between Baltimore and their experience in Africa was an eye opener. I do not understand how anyone would enjoy life in a place like that (Baltimore that is) from the film. I teased my sisters about picking what is probably the only teaching movie in the festival, but it is a very good movie, check it out if you get the chance.

Saturday Night. Symphony. I've come to the realization (that in my mind) I've given up trying to find someone to take the symphony.....even given a chance to ask.....anymore just assume no one wants to go. Oh wait, talking about art. I saw (or rather heard) Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue. This is one of my favorite pieces of music (Alaska airlines or no, I still like the piece). I enjoy trying to catch Gershwin or Shostakovich whenever I can so this made for a good musical weekend. I never realized the scoring of Rhapsody included Banjo before.....I can't even pick it out.....

Sunday......uhh......uhhhh.....no art.

Monday, work, but light traffic thanks to the Bankers Holiday.

Tuesday. Film fest volunteering. Short films. The program promised the most experimental films of the festival. It didn't disappoint. After the first short, the next half hour film was minus sound. Just visuals....if you are trained and expect sound, could be difficult to sit through. How can an engineer sit through this? They just half to let themselves go and feel sometimes. My favorite short had to do with a showing of a corny film bit of a college class (guessing early 80s from the clothes) and the presentation of the first law of thermodynamics coupled with a cartoon of a fox and.....beaver? reading a piece of (Nietsche?) in a different than intended context. Perfect engineer, geeky philosopher humor. Note; someone who has studied the actual usage of something may find humor in its misapplication.

That's it for now, Friday night working another show, this one from Colombia. Likely to be busy, but also likely to be a good show.

Rainbow Falls, Big Island, Hawai'i, May 2005, by LHD

Lack of Multiple Choice

2006-02-15T23:42:00.000-08:00

I don't know anymore.

Do you?

Ellison S. Onizuka?, Mauna Kea, Big Island, Hawai'i, May 2005, by LHD

Seconds

2006-02-12T21:17:00.000-08:00

Another thought/question/survey for a Sunday.

Of things you've deemed to be mistakes in your past are you:

a) Glad to share them with all.
b) Mostly embarrassed by what you've done and in general not the quickest to share them.
c) Feel you have learned from the mistake and found that in someway it has lead to you living a fuller life.
d) Continually repeat the mistakes so the mistake doesn't matter in the first place.

Curious on thoughts abroad from all.....

Here Comes the Sun

2006-02-12T18:03:00.000-08:00

Finally, after seemingly endless weeks of gray skies and rain, the sun came out to play this week.

Didn't have time to enjoy it during the week (long hours from big unexpected project).

Didn't really leave town either (which I a favorite of my when the weather cooperates).

But I have a happy clean car now.

The stacks of rose clippings have been reduced by being further clipped and put into the yard debris barrel.

I got to putz around in the garage today.

Yesterday, I helped down at the film fest and got to see the Russian movie Roots.

All in all, a good weekend.....

Mauna Loa, Big Island, Hawai'i, May 2005, by LHD

1995

2006-02-04T21:10:00.000-08:00

A Decade Ago:
(because I am psychotic in keeping records; every time I sit down and pull together information for taxes I get a chance to reflect and throw away proof of life ten years ago)

I was in college. Tuition was estimated at $18,670 for the year.

The University had yet to proclaim itself the "Premier Catholic Teaching University in the West" (or whatever that selling statement was)

I drove a forklift that summer for a local paper finishing plant. I earned around $500 every other week for the summer.

I could live off $50 a month spending cash. The largest checks I wrote were for books and some tuition.

I had a credit card.....and didn't use it that year.

I was a member of the Star Wars Fan Club and regularly received shipments from BMG Music Service.

Accounts that I saved money in earned either 2.2% APR up to 3% APR or 5%APR.

Ten years ago, Sallie Mae was founded more than 20 years ago.

My final student billing statement for the year indicates a unique charge indirectly associated with my summertime employment.....

Local Geography

2006-02-02T21:04:00.000-08:00

Some local terms you might here relating to geographic features.
(note more local to Portland than the rest of the state)

The Mountain
Mount Hood

Unless used refering to an exploded place eg "When the Mountain Blew", then
Mount Saint Helens

The River
either; The Columbia

or; The Willamette River

The Coast
(refers to the Oregon Coast, but note its "the coast" not "the beach")

The Valley
Willamette Valley

The Gorge
Columbia River Gorge

The Falls
Multnomah Falls

(and because Google comes up with some good ones, an alternate take on Multnomah Falls)

Metro or Tri-County
Portland Metropolitan Area (duh)

Back East
Generally, any point east of the Continental Divide; includes The Midwest, the Great Plains, and (sometimes, but not always) The South. (in the case of the map usually anything from the West edge of the Louisiana Purchase to the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts).

Key mispronounced words guaranteed to either frustrate an Oregonian or make them chuckle: The name of our State. Willamette River.

For all the other bloggers out there; interested in hearing similar from your locale....

Things to do in Portland and a Portland Crowd

2006-01-31T19:53:00.000-08:00

A friend comes to visit and a separate trip to the pub reminds me.

Things that make Portland.

From my friend's visit, things visitors might do:

Black Tiger Shakes; Coffeepeople.

Wacky Willy's (unfortunately no longer).

Toys'R'Us (yes nationwide, but imagine it minus sales tax).

The Gasthaus 1, 2, 3, 4.

Kennedy School and movies.

Powell's.

From my trip to the pub tonight for catching up with a friend not seen in a long while.

Crowds watching the State of the Union address at the pub. Not to cheer, but to hiss. (me, honestly could give a sh*t.....current bush not worth listening to; Clinton good president, but bad person, Reagan, likeable but bad economically, Nixon; fun for a kitsch value). However, the standing and clapping routine (every seemingly minute) is worth laughing about.

Anyhow, to all that made the effort to visit for Chinese New Year's, thank you. I had a fun night.....

(everyone goes ????, but Google knows the Year of the Dog.....)

'Splain it to Me

2006-01-26T19:57:00.000-08:00

I got my renewal notice for Health Insurance.

Apparently the rising cost of medical treatment for the coming year is 17.8%.

Pretty sure inflation was a lot less. Thats a lot higher than salary adjustments for last year.

Cost of living adjustments for last year....ummm....gas went up 26% so maybe health care costs are rising because of gas?

For those of you in the health field.....did you get 17% raises this past year?

For those of you in the economics fields, Are there studies that document the rising cost of health care?

Nearly 18% just seems a bit too high for a generic unknown and unspecified "rise in costs" outpacing my ability to pay for them.....

Viva la Revolucion!

2006-01-25T22:20:00.000-08:00

I watched a show on OPB the other night.

It was aboot John Adams. I have some new respect for the place he took in history. Had no idea just how important the part he took in the Revolution and the personal political sacrifices made in his one term as President.

From the same show, have lost some respect for Thomas Jefferson. Never heard about the dark slanderous side before.

But still the true history movie ending to the whole thing is great. Both originally excellant friends (Adams assigned Jefferson to write the Draft of the Declaration).......both then bitter rivels (competing for office of President and Jefferson paying members of Adams cabinet for slanderous information)......finally making peace with each other resulting in one of "the great written correspondences in the English language"......they both died on the 4th of July, the same year.

Adams final words....Jefferson survives....

History lesson for the day.

Pu'u O'o West Highcastle Lava, Big Island, Hawai'i, May 2005, by LHD

Indy

2006-01-24T21:04:00.000-08:00

Not the dude with the Fedora.

Helping the Portland public get the chance to see; The Car, Roots and a collection of shorts

"Things We Want to See"
"The Space Between"
"Market Street"
"Los Caudales"
"Noel - The Obituary Project"
"Bocas de Cenzia"
"Curious About Existence"
"Untitled (For David Gatten)"

Don't forget (if you live here) between February 10-25 to support Indie Film and Film in Portland (and if you live elsewhere don't forget to take some time to support Indie Film).

Off my high nose high stance now........