August 30, 2009 — Wanda and I have a "boat load' of grandchildren between us. Ranging in age from 16 to 1 ½ there are 13 of the youngsters and in December number 14 will join the group. So as far as numbers go we could field a good football or baseball team. Keeping up with these kids is another matter. To most of them I am known as Paw Paw Burkett and Wanda is known as Grammaw. Personally I like being known as Paw Paw.
Grandparents are important in the development of a young child. Oh we don't necessarily possess anymore parenting skills than Mom and Dad do, but we do have the advantage of experience behind us. Wanda and I have not been spending as much time with the grandchildren as we should lately. So, yesterday we had 4-yr old Tommy come spend the night with us.
Young Mr. Tommy can be a real challenge. He is an extremely bright and energetic youngster. He often times thinks he knows everything and doesn't mind telling you so. When asked a question sometimes though the answer does not fit the question. For instance if you address him by his name Tommy he will say..."No my name is not Tommy...it's BooBoo"...that being the affectionate name Grammaw has given him. So, taken in context little Tommy is right in that statement. On other occasions you can state the most obvious thing to him and his answer is..."No it's not!" No is singularly the most prevalent word in his vocabulary. His parents tell us that one of the things he likes to tell his Mom when told to do something is..."No, I don't have to." He can get away with that with his Mom, but knows not to try it with his Dad. He also does not say sat that to me or Grammaw. So, it seems he is selective with that word No.
Is any of this unusual? NO it's not. He is only 4-yrs old and is prone to pick up on most words he hears around him and guess where those come from...yup, we the adults. It never ceases to amaze me when I see a young child get chastised for saying something that he picked up from the adults around him or her. So often it is the parent, grandparent, or friend that gets in the way of teaching a child that certain words just should not be used. Now the word No isn't one of those words. It's use in communication can be very important. The real challenge is acknowledging when it is used properly and also when it is not so. We as adults often get frustrated and upset when that is all we think we hear from a child..."No, I..." There is a real opportunity to teach a child when this communication is going on. We as adults must play down our frustrations and seize the moment to do some good parenting or grandparenting...to grab ahold of the chance to do some effective communication with someone that is just learning how to get along in a family and ultimately the world...it's what really matters!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Potpourri
August 28, 2009 — I was sitting here at my computer awhile ago about midnight when all of a sudden there was this bright flash of light followed by a huge clap of thunder. I thought that's strange, I haven't seen or heard that in quite some time. Power went out for about five minutes so I stood in my garage with a flashlight and listened to the rain coming down until I could open the garage door and take a look at the beautiful sight of rain. It is the second time today we have had a rain shower. That has been an unseen occurrence in these parts for some time...raining twice in the same day. We have had 68 days of triple digit temps since mid June and most of those have been consecutive days. It is now the second hottest summer in history in central Texas. Wanda and I have a huge tree in front of our house and one in back. Both of these are over 30-years old and both have been showing signs of stress lately. So this rain is very much welcomed along with the forecast of temps in the mid-nineties.
The passing of Senator Edward Kennedy, while not unexpected, is somewhat of a sad note. I have never agreed with his liberal politics in most cases, but I must admit he was a tenacious legislator and not one of those that sat on his duff. A niece of mine that writes a blog about parenting wrote an excellent commentary about the Senator's passing. Read it here http://unchartedparent.com/. Another niece noted that the media made a bigger to do over the death of Michael Jackson then they are over Ted Kennedy. She wondered just where was the mind/conscience of this country and particularly the media. It is a point well taken. Kennedy has been known as the Lion of the Senate and my niece wrote in her blog that the lion roars no more and we as a country will be poorer for the silence. Yes, we will be poorer for not having this lion around to debate and work hard for what he and others believe in.
I will attend my final substitute teacher orientation today and then I hope some assignments will be coming along. I've been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to do this all summer. I am still not sure what it will bring, but I will face the challenge and know I can do well. There is nothing more important than making a difference in a young person's life through education...it's what really matters!
The passing of Senator Edward Kennedy, while not unexpected, is somewhat of a sad note. I have never agreed with his liberal politics in most cases, but I must admit he was a tenacious legislator and not one of those that sat on his duff. A niece of mine that writes a blog about parenting wrote an excellent commentary about the Senator's passing. Read it here http://unchartedparent.com/. Another niece noted that the media made a bigger to do over the death of Michael Jackson then they are over Ted Kennedy. She wondered just where was the mind/conscience of this country and particularly the media. It is a point well taken. Kennedy has been known as the Lion of the Senate and my niece wrote in her blog that the lion roars no more and we as a country will be poorer for the silence. Yes, we will be poorer for not having this lion around to debate and work hard for what he and others believe in.
I will attend my final substitute teacher orientation today and then I hope some assignments will be coming along. I've been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to do this all summer. I am still not sure what it will bring, but I will face the challenge and know I can do well. There is nothing more important than making a difference in a young person's life through education...it's what really matters!
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
You Have Got To Be Kidding Me
August 26, 2009 — I just read this editorial commentary in the Austin American-Statesman http://www.statesman.com/opinion/content/editorial/stories/2009/08/26/0826truesdell_edit.html. The Fire Chief this article refers to was recently hired from an Asst Fire Chief's position in Little Rock, Ark. I believe this lady has flipped out. If you don't have time or the desire to read the article here is it's opening paragraph: "Under a new departmental policy developed and issued by its chief, the Austin Fire Department units will be allowed to respond to emergency calls at the posted speed limit. Units must wait for the green light at a "congested intersection," with lights and sirens turned off." Is this not the most ridiculous thing you have ever heard of? It is to me! The next paragraph indicates that this policy is more restrictive then state law.
Our city seems to be in constant turmoil with agencies such as the fire department and police department about how they do their business. We as citizens demand that these departments perform at the highest level and there are many that just wait for them to screw up, so they can drag them through big investigations and chastise them at every turn. Then a bozo chief like this comes up with this stupid policy. I just can't believe it!
I hope every driver of the vehicles that this policy affects completely ignores it and takes whatever discipline might come from doing so. At least they will know that they are doing the job they were trained and paid to do...save lives and property. These are hard working men and women that deserve better than this. Without them we would be in dire straits sometimes and we could lose our life. So keep on driving with lights on and the sirens blaring...keep saving lives and property...it's what really matters!
Our city seems to be in constant turmoil with agencies such as the fire department and police department about how they do their business. We as citizens demand that these departments perform at the highest level and there are many that just wait for them to screw up, so they can drag them through big investigations and chastise them at every turn. Then a bozo chief like this comes up with this stupid policy. I just can't believe it!
I hope every driver of the vehicles that this policy affects completely ignores it and takes whatever discipline might come from doing so. At least they will know that they are doing the job they were trained and paid to do...save lives and property. These are hard working men and women that deserve better than this. Without them we would be in dire straits sometimes and we could lose our life. So keep on driving with lights on and the sirens blaring...keep saving lives and property...it's what really matters!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Shooting Yourself In The Foot
August 25, 2009 — The VA has gone and done it again. This time some computer was coded wrong, which means someone did not do their job correctly and there apparently was no quality control in place, and letters that were suppose to tell more than 1800 Gulf War veterans that have Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS) about disability benefits available to them ended up telling some of them that they had the fatal disease. The VA stated the letters were not intended to deliver a medical diagnosis. Really? You can read about this here if you'd like http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2009-08-24-vets-disease_N.htm.
Now lets see, the VA in the not to distant past has lost personal medical information because of stolen laptop computers, used non-sterile equipment in colonoscopy examinations causing hepatitis infections, and the list seems to never end. It has had a reputation in the past for not providing veterans the care they deserve and are owed because of their service to their country. Some of the problems have been caused by poor funding from the Congress. But that has been improving over the last several years. The medical staff and administrative personnel have been working hard to improve their care and their image. But somewhere...something...is still rotten. Oh, and how can the VA explain rationally that they can pay bonuses to employees and still have such a tremendous backlog of unpaid veterans claims? The answer to that question is they can't! The veterans of this country deserve an explanation and full accounting of these issues. They also deserve to know just how the VA intends to prevent things like this from happening in the future. The individual/s involved in the computer coding error need to be held accountable and probably dismissed or at the very minimum placed under close supervision. That accountability needs to be explained and provided to the veterans in this country.
Now as you know I am a veteran. I use the VA system for some of my medical care. I do not blindly place myself in any one's care for my health issues. But how am I to continue to have faith in the VA when things like this latest incident keep cropping up? Just how much trust can I put in the VA. It seems that the answer to that is that I need to be very vigilant in what is going on. I do not want to lose my confidence in the VA. I believe in their system and what they are trying to do. But how much more should I take? How do I know that when I go out to have my blood drawn tomorrow that it will be done with sterile equipment in a sterile environment? I have to have faith and I will for now...it's what really matters!
Now lets see, the VA in the not to distant past has lost personal medical information because of stolen laptop computers, used non-sterile equipment in colonoscopy examinations causing hepatitis infections, and the list seems to never end. It has had a reputation in the past for not providing veterans the care they deserve and are owed because of their service to their country. Some of the problems have been caused by poor funding from the Congress. But that has been improving over the last several years. The medical staff and administrative personnel have been working hard to improve their care and their image. But somewhere...something...is still rotten. Oh, and how can the VA explain rationally that they can pay bonuses to employees and still have such a tremendous backlog of unpaid veterans claims? The answer to that question is they can't! The veterans of this country deserve an explanation and full accounting of these issues. They also deserve to know just how the VA intends to prevent things like this from happening in the future. The individual/s involved in the computer coding error need to be held accountable and probably dismissed or at the very minimum placed under close supervision. That accountability needs to be explained and provided to the veterans in this country.
Now as you know I am a veteran. I use the VA system for some of my medical care. I do not blindly place myself in any one's care for my health issues. But how am I to continue to have faith in the VA when things like this latest incident keep cropping up? Just how much trust can I put in the VA. It seems that the answer to that is that I need to be very vigilant in what is going on. I do not want to lose my confidence in the VA. I believe in their system and what they are trying to do. But how much more should I take? How do I know that when I go out to have my blood drawn tomorrow that it will be done with sterile equipment in a sterile environment? I have to have faith and I will for now...it's what really matters!
Monday, August 24, 2009
Press 201 and...
August 24, 2009 — This one has been sticking in my craw now for few days. Remember the days when you could call a business or a company or a doctors office and get to talk to a real live person almost right away. Of course you don't...you probably are not old enough to remember that as it hasn't been that way for eons it seems. No for a very long time now, when you call one of those places I mentioned you have to suffer through an elaborate menu system that is sometimes provided by a computer generated voice or maybe an actual recording of a human being. It seems they experience so much joy in creating 14 different menus needing explanation and guidance. The number 14 sticks in my mind here because one of my brothers always said I was the only guy he knew who had been married 14 times. Now that is close, but still a bit of an exaggeration. Anyway, I digress.
This past Thursday I began trying to change a doctor appointment I have. When I called this doctors office, I got the usual recording and literally spent 3 minutes or so listening to a recording before I got to the part of the menu I needed. I finally got to press "201" so I could leave a message for so and so to return my call. On Friday morning I tried again because I had not received a call back from Thursday. I waited through the same menu of course and again pressed "201" and left a message. I don't know why they go through all the trouble to record a menu system because they don't ever follow through with what they say or so it seems sometimes. I think it's all about just wanting to use the technology and so that ol' whats her name can use her cell and listen to herself explaining the menu and giggling over it all. To me it's all damn frustrating!
So, here is the plan. This morning I am driving to this doctors office and dealing with these folks face-to-face. I know I'll be able to get my appointment changed and get some coordination taken care of that will be necessary so that the appointment time with the doctor will be beneficial. i.e., not waste his time and mine. I intend to even drop a comment about their nice phone system and how they ignore it. Oh I'll be nice about it, but they damn sure are going to get a comment about it from me. I know technology is nice, but sometimes I long for the days when things weren't quite so "techie" if you know what I mean. Anyway, I'll get things taken care of and...it's what really matters!
This past Thursday I began trying to change a doctor appointment I have. When I called this doctors office, I got the usual recording and literally spent 3 minutes or so listening to a recording before I got to the part of the menu I needed. I finally got to press "201" so I could leave a message for so and so to return my call. On Friday morning I tried again because I had not received a call back from Thursday. I waited through the same menu of course and again pressed "201" and left a message. I don't know why they go through all the trouble to record a menu system because they don't ever follow through with what they say or so it seems sometimes. I think it's all about just wanting to use the technology and so that ol' whats her name can use her cell and listen to herself explaining the menu and giggling over it all. To me it's all damn frustrating!
So, here is the plan. This morning I am driving to this doctors office and dealing with these folks face-to-face. I know I'll be able to get my appointment changed and get some coordination taken care of that will be necessary so that the appointment time with the doctor will be beneficial. i.e., not waste his time and mine. I intend to even drop a comment about their nice phone system and how they ignore it. Oh I'll be nice about it, but they damn sure are going to get a comment about it from me. I know technology is nice, but sometimes I long for the days when things weren't quite so "techie" if you know what I mean. Anyway, I'll get things taken care of and...it's what really matters!
Sunday, August 23, 2009
The Day After The Day After
August 23, 2009 — We survived it all...that is the graduation ceremony and the party afterwards. The ceremony was excellent and well done by the school district. My son finally "walked the stage" as he has termed it and one could tell he was extremely proud. There were many of us from his family in attendance along with so many of his friends. It was a ceremony worth remembering.
The party afterwards again was well attended by so many of my son's friends. It ran from about 9 p.m. until 3:30 a.m. Saturday morning. I went to bed at 1 a.m. and left Wanda to watch over the masses. These young'uns are a good group. They had a lot of fun doing what they do best and that is having a good time. I met some new friends of my son's and I was impressed. One such fellow is in the USMC reserve and has done a tour in Iraq. He did this before he turned 21-yrs old. Are you paying attention America! He impressed Wanda and me with his excellent manners and level headiness. These young people have a deep loyalty to one another and it took me back to my Navy days when I attended so many parties like this one. The friendship and the sharing of an experience that was important to us all.
These are the sorts of things that create good and lasting memories. They are important to keep and to cherish. They help define who we really are and what we will become, and...it's what really matters!
The party afterwards again was well attended by so many of my son's friends. It ran from about 9 p.m. until 3:30 a.m. Saturday morning. I went to bed at 1 a.m. and left Wanda to watch over the masses. These young'uns are a good group. They had a lot of fun doing what they do best and that is having a good time. I met some new friends of my son's and I was impressed. One such fellow is in the USMC reserve and has done a tour in Iraq. He did this before he turned 21-yrs old. Are you paying attention America! He impressed Wanda and me with his excellent manners and level headiness. These young people have a deep loyalty to one another and it took me back to my Navy days when I attended so many parties like this one. The friendship and the sharing of an experience that was important to us all.
These are the sorts of things that create good and lasting memories. They are important to keep and to cherish. They help define who we really are and what we will become, and...it's what really matters!
Friday, August 21, 2009
Graduation Day
August 21, 2009 — The day has finally come. It's a day that quite frankly in the past few years I did not think was ever going to happen. My 19-yr old son has finally completed his high school graduation requirements and will receive his diploma in the Austin Independent School District's (AISD) summer graduation program this evening.
Let me say right up front that I am very proud of my son! In the past few years he demonstrated an unwillingness or the caring to complete his high school education. When he reached the age of 18 he withdrew himself from school and it was at the time probably the best thing he could have done. He wasn't going to class anyway! As young people do, and I know I certainly did, he struggled with finding his way. He let himself fall into some very habits and just flat out did not care about anything except being destructive to himself. It eventually got him into a heap of trouble.
My son completed his high school education at AISD's Garza Independent High School. It is a school that takes troubled young people and allows them to complete high school in a non-traditional environment. It is self-paced and guided by a teacher that is always in the classroom. Much of the work is completed using a computer and CDs. I want to acknowledge and thank the administrators, faculty, and students of Garza for their tenacity and a belief in never giving up. Without them my son would not be receiving his diploma this evening.
My son is bouncing back from those bad habits and the trouble it has caused. It will be a long hard road for him there is no doubt. He is picking himself by the boot straps and beginning that long hard road we all end up travelling. The good things in life are never easy are they. On Tuesday he will begin taking classes at Austin Community College and is truly excited about it all. He is setting goals for his education now and while those will no doubt change as he travels his road he has at least begun the journey. Again, I am so very proud of him. As usual, all of this...is what really matters!
Let me say right up front that I am very proud of my son! In the past few years he demonstrated an unwillingness or the caring to complete his high school education. When he reached the age of 18 he withdrew himself from school and it was at the time probably the best thing he could have done. He wasn't going to class anyway! As young people do, and I know I certainly did, he struggled with finding his way. He let himself fall into some very habits and just flat out did not care about anything except being destructive to himself. It eventually got him into a heap of trouble.
My son completed his high school education at AISD's Garza Independent High School. It is a school that takes troubled young people and allows them to complete high school in a non-traditional environment. It is self-paced and guided by a teacher that is always in the classroom. Much of the work is completed using a computer and CDs. I want to acknowledge and thank the administrators, faculty, and students of Garza for their tenacity and a belief in never giving up. Without them my son would not be receiving his diploma this evening.
My son is bouncing back from those bad habits and the trouble it has caused. It will be a long hard road for him there is no doubt. He is picking himself by the boot straps and beginning that long hard road we all end up travelling. The good things in life are never easy are they. On Tuesday he will begin taking classes at Austin Community College and is truly excited about it all. He is setting goals for his education now and while those will no doubt change as he travels his road he has at least begun the journey. Again, I am so very proud of him. As usual, all of this...is what really matters!
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Social Web Sites
August 20, 2009 — I am not sure if I have blogged about social web sites before or not. Geez you'd thing I would look back at my list and maybe I could tell. But no, I'm too lazy for that. Oh well, I'm going to blog about them anyway.
I never thought I would be one to have an account on Facebook (FB) and certainly not MySpace (MS). But yup you guessed it, I now have accounts on both thanks to my crazy nieces and my wife Wanda. I have spent a fair amount of time over the past couple of days on both sites. They both have a multitude of different features that you could absolutely spend days dealing with and they all drive me crazy it seems. But I realize they need to be there to keep the masses happy. Some people are spending their lives on their little part of each of these sites. Don't they have real jobs? I guess I should talk, huh?
One really good thing about these sites though is that you can get in contact with people that you may not have had contact with in years. For instance, a childhood friend that I went all the way through school with contacted me on FB just the other day. I found out he is an attorney here in town and next week we are getting together and swap lies as he termed it. It should be interesting and I do look forward to it. Well with that experience urging me on I explored looking for other people I might know and sure enough I have gained contact with three others that I went to high school with 45 years ago. Additionally, I have gained contact with four former co-workers.
So all-in-all the experience that I so steadfastly refused to experience before has been pleasant. Now I still don't care for the BS that goes on with some folks on these sites, but I figure I have much more to gain in renewing old friendships...it's what really matters!
I never thought I would be one to have an account on Facebook (FB) and certainly not MySpace (MS). But yup you guessed it, I now have accounts on both thanks to my crazy nieces and my wife Wanda. I have spent a fair amount of time over the past couple of days on both sites. They both have a multitude of different features that you could absolutely spend days dealing with and they all drive me crazy it seems. But I realize they need to be there to keep the masses happy. Some people are spending their lives on their little part of each of these sites. Don't they have real jobs? I guess I should talk, huh?
One really good thing about these sites though is that you can get in contact with people that you may not have had contact with in years. For instance, a childhood friend that I went all the way through school with contacted me on FB just the other day. I found out he is an attorney here in town and next week we are getting together and swap lies as he termed it. It should be interesting and I do look forward to it. Well with that experience urging me on I explored looking for other people I might know and sure enough I have gained contact with three others that I went to high school with 45 years ago. Additionally, I have gained contact with four former co-workers.
So all-in-all the experience that I so steadfastly refused to experience before has been pleasant. Now I still don't care for the BS that goes on with some folks on these sites, but I figure I have much more to gain in renewing old friendships...it's what really matters!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Sprucin' Up
August 19, 2009 — I do not suppose it's unusual for a man my age to still have all of his hair. I do not have any sort of seriously receding hairline and I certainly do not worry about those issues. My Dad died at the young age of 46 and he was bald on top from the pictures I've seen. My three brothers all had most of their hair when they passed away, so it doesn't appear that baldness is a hereditary issue in my family. What I do know is that I do not really like to let my hair grow long. How do I know when it is getting too long? When it starts to flair and feather out on the sides like I had wings or something (I look like the Flying Nun when this happens) or when it feels uncomfortable to wear a ball cap which I do a lot of the time. That is when it is time to go see my haircut lady.
Betty is my barber and she owns Geezers barbershop. It's a one chair shop and she has very loyal clients most of which are retired Air Force. Betty use to work at the barbershop at Bergstrom AFB when it was still open here in Austin and that is where these guys come from. Now Betty is quite the character. She is ultra conservative in her opinions and generally does not have one good thing to say about any politician. She has no qualms about discussing anything with you. She also plays CDs while she is cutting hair. The music ranges from classical, to opera, to crooners such as Frankie Lane and some I have never heard before, to music that I find hard to describe sometimes. It definitely is not pop stuff. I was once had a great discussion with her about a very old TV show called The Hit Parade. It was on in the 50's and my Mom loved to watch it and I learned to do so. It had such singers as Rosemary Clooney, Snookie Lansen (not sure of the spelling here), Giesel McKensie, and one other whom I can never remember the name. It was a 30 minute show and they would do all the popular numbers of the 40's and 50's. Well Betty and I had a great time talking about that show.
Betty does a nice haircut. Nothing fancy and can make you look like you are in boot camp if you want. Well I am headed to Geezers today as I need a haircut. On Thursday I will attend an orientation in one of the school districts where I have been accepted to substitute teach this school year. One of the requirements of course is that you have a photo badge, so I am goin' to get a sprucin' from Betty. I am sure I will end up looking very teacher like and at least I won't look like the Flying Nun...it's what really matters!
Betty is my barber and she owns Geezers barbershop. It's a one chair shop and she has very loyal clients most of which are retired Air Force. Betty use to work at the barbershop at Bergstrom AFB when it was still open here in Austin and that is where these guys come from. Now Betty is quite the character. She is ultra conservative in her opinions and generally does not have one good thing to say about any politician. She has no qualms about discussing anything with you. She also plays CDs while she is cutting hair. The music ranges from classical, to opera, to crooners such as Frankie Lane and some I have never heard before, to music that I find hard to describe sometimes. It definitely is not pop stuff. I was once had a great discussion with her about a very old TV show called The Hit Parade. It was on in the 50's and my Mom loved to watch it and I learned to do so. It had such singers as Rosemary Clooney, Snookie Lansen (not sure of the spelling here), Giesel McKensie, and one other whom I can never remember the name. It was a 30 minute show and they would do all the popular numbers of the 40's and 50's. Well Betty and I had a great time talking about that show.
Betty does a nice haircut. Nothing fancy and can make you look like you are in boot camp if you want. Well I am headed to Geezers today as I need a haircut. On Thursday I will attend an orientation in one of the school districts where I have been accepted to substitute teach this school year. One of the requirements of course is that you have a photo badge, so I am goin' to get a sprucin' from Betty. I am sure I will end up looking very teacher like and at least I won't look like the Flying Nun...it's what really matters!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
President Obama and the VFW
August 18, 2009 — Yesterday August 17th President Obama addressed the VFW National Convention being held in Phoenix, Arizona. I just finished listening to his remarks as the VFW is providing a live streaming video/audio feed of the convention via the VFW National web site and of course there is an archive also available and that is how I could view and hear the President's remarks at 0200 this morning. I must say I was a bit impressed and also a bit concerned.
I was concerned about his remarks in reference to what is going on right now in DoD with a top-to-bottom review of current and projected defense programs and the spending associated with those programs. He is looking to cut out all waste and pork in defense spending and I applaud that as long as he listens to his military commanders and, in the case of his current Sec of Defense Robert Gates, those civilians that know what they are talking about. He told the convention he intends to provide what the troops need to when in battle and to take care of them and their families. All of this is well and good as long he follows sound advice and that best comes from his field commanders. One has to be careful there also because there is a tendency by some military commanders to "protect their six" so to speak. That means the individual services are always in contention with each other for funding and asking for priority on some program whether it is needed or not. That's where the Sec Def needs to be a good and intelligent referee.
I was absolutely impressed with the President's remarks concerning the VA. There were the obligatory remarks of course, but I believe he meant what he said that 1) Concurrent receipt would continue (concurrent receipt means that certain disabled vets do not have military retirement pay reduced by the amount they receive from the VA), 2) the VA will receive advance appropriations (this means that while Congress rankles with the Appropriations bill every year, the VA will get it's funding by Oct 1st when it should...as it should for all other appropriations), 3) has directed that VA Sec Shinseki develop programs to reduce the number of homeless vets, 4) the VA will cut red tape in claims processing to eliminate a huge claims backlog (no one has been successful at this yet), 5) has directed DoD and the VA to work together to develop a lifetime electronic record system that will help eliminate delays vets encounter in eligibility and claims issues. He also mentioned the new GI Bill that just went to into affect. His administration was not responsible for this...it was the Bush administration.
There was much more and the above are just the highlights in my opinion. In the past few years, the government has started to wake up to the fact that it must keep its promises to America's vets. It is less than 1% of the countries population that serve in the military at any one time. That less than 1% carries the fight forward and pays the price for our freedom. We must never break or turn away from the sacred trusts we have with our military and our veterans...it's what really matters!
I was concerned about his remarks in reference to what is going on right now in DoD with a top-to-bottom review of current and projected defense programs and the spending associated with those programs. He is looking to cut out all waste and pork in defense spending and I applaud that as long as he listens to his military commanders and, in the case of his current Sec of Defense Robert Gates, those civilians that know what they are talking about. He told the convention he intends to provide what the troops need to when in battle and to take care of them and their families. All of this is well and good as long he follows sound advice and that best comes from his field commanders. One has to be careful there also because there is a tendency by some military commanders to "protect their six" so to speak. That means the individual services are always in contention with each other for funding and asking for priority on some program whether it is needed or not. That's where the Sec Def needs to be a good and intelligent referee.
I was absolutely impressed with the President's remarks concerning the VA. There were the obligatory remarks of course, but I believe he meant what he said that 1) Concurrent receipt would continue (concurrent receipt means that certain disabled vets do not have military retirement pay reduced by the amount they receive from the VA), 2) the VA will receive advance appropriations (this means that while Congress rankles with the Appropriations bill every year, the VA will get it's funding by Oct 1st when it should...as it should for all other appropriations), 3) has directed that VA Sec Shinseki develop programs to reduce the number of homeless vets, 4) the VA will cut red tape in claims processing to eliminate a huge claims backlog (no one has been successful at this yet), 5) has directed DoD and the VA to work together to develop a lifetime electronic record system that will help eliminate delays vets encounter in eligibility and claims issues. He also mentioned the new GI Bill that just went to into affect. His administration was not responsible for this...it was the Bush administration.
There was much more and the above are just the highlights in my opinion. In the past few years, the government has started to wake up to the fact that it must keep its promises to America's vets. It is less than 1% of the countries population that serve in the military at any one time. That less than 1% carries the fight forward and pays the price for our freedom. We must never break or turn away from the sacred trusts we have with our military and our veterans...it's what really matters!
Sunday, August 16, 2009
There Is No Substitute For Leadership
August 16, 2009 — I just finished reading an article in the online edition of the Austin American-Statesman about the Post Commander at Fort Hood, Texas. His name is Lt. Gen. Rick Lynch. In reading this article I thought about what it takes to be a good, solid, effective leader. It became obvious to me that this is one Army general that cares very much about his soldiers and their families. He took command at Fort Hood a little over a year ago and at a time more soldiers at Fort Hood were being lost in accidents and suicides then there were in Iraq/Afghanistan. He has worked hard to turn that around and with the help of his wife is getting the job done. This link http://www.statesman.com/news/content/news/stories/local/2009/08/16/0816general.html
provides access to this rather lengthy article, but it is well worth it if you want to understand what it takes to be a leader.
During my 22+ years in the Navy I served under many commanding officers. Some were aloof and disconnected from the people they commanded, some tried and had some success in being a good leader, and one in particular was like Lt. Gen. Lynch. Navy CDR. Dennis Graff was absolutely the best naval officer I ever had the privilege to serve under. He was the C.O. of
VP-47 for one year in 1976-77. I was in his flight crew and one of his Chief Petty Officers. CDR. Graff was not the type of C.O. that sat in his office secluded from the people in his squadron. On an almost daily basis you could see him on the hanger deck or in the shops talking with his sailors. He truly cared about us all. He was also an excellent pilot. He did not get to fly with us often because of other demands on him as C.O., but when the chips were down or a particular mission was very sensitive and potentially dangerous, he was in the left seat in the cockpit leading us on. I learned much by his example. On the day when he relinquished command of the squadron to his X.O., in a tradition rich Change of Command ceremony, he took the time to go through the ranks of all the Chiefs and the enlisted personnel and shook each of our hands. That was something like close to 300 handshakes. I had tears in my eyes and the thought of it today brings those tears back...it's what really matters!
provides access to this rather lengthy article, but it is well worth it if you want to understand what it takes to be a leader.
During my 22+ years in the Navy I served under many commanding officers. Some were aloof and disconnected from the people they commanded, some tried and had some success in being a good leader, and one in particular was like Lt. Gen. Lynch. Navy CDR. Dennis Graff was absolutely the best naval officer I ever had the privilege to serve under. He was the C.O. of
VP-47 for one year in 1976-77. I was in his flight crew and one of his Chief Petty Officers. CDR. Graff was not the type of C.O. that sat in his office secluded from the people in his squadron. On an almost daily basis you could see him on the hanger deck or in the shops talking with his sailors. He truly cared about us all. He was also an excellent pilot. He did not get to fly with us often because of other demands on him as C.O., but when the chips were down or a particular mission was very sensitive and potentially dangerous, he was in the left seat in the cockpit leading us on. I learned much by his example. On the day when he relinquished command of the squadron to his X.O., in a tradition rich Change of Command ceremony, he took the time to go through the ranks of all the Chiefs and the enlisted personnel and shook each of our hands. That was something like close to 300 handshakes. I had tears in my eyes and the thought of it today brings those tears back...it's what really matters!
Friday, August 14, 2009
Turning It Around
August 15, 2009 — I have a 19-yr old son...I might have mentioned that before. He has struggled with some things over the last few years. One of his struggles was going to school. As soon as he turned 18 he took himself out of high school and was only 3½ credits or so away from completing his requirements for graduation. There was absolutely nothing his mother or I could do or say to get him to get it all completed.
Well then he got himself into some real trouble and some other folks flat out told him he had to go back to school and complete his high school education or else. That did the trick and this coming Friday he will "walk the stage" as he calls it and get his diploma. I am very proud of him for getting this done.
Better yet he has a strong desire to take college level courses at Austin Community College (ACC). He applied for student financial aid and was sort of bummed out when they originally told him he would not get it in time to start the fall term. Turns out that is not the case and on the 24th of this month he starts taking three classes at ACC. All of this is GOOD STUFF!
His family has been waiting for him to start turning things around in his life. I thought it was going to take a bit longer, but I have always known that it would happen. Why? Because I know where he comes from. He is smart and caring, but easily lets himself get side tracked with friends. I think his friends are realizing they too have to start doing some things differently. Only time will tell how this will all play out.
In the meantime, I am going to be there for him to encourage his continuing education. I'm not even sure if a college education does anything for you anymore or not, but it certainly can't hurt you. One thing is for sure, it will open up his horizons a bit and he will be exposed to other people and make new friends...it's what really matters!
Well then he got himself into some real trouble and some other folks flat out told him he had to go back to school and complete his high school education or else. That did the trick and this coming Friday he will "walk the stage" as he calls it and get his diploma. I am very proud of him for getting this done.
Better yet he has a strong desire to take college level courses at Austin Community College (ACC). He applied for student financial aid and was sort of bummed out when they originally told him he would not get it in time to start the fall term. Turns out that is not the case and on the 24th of this month he starts taking three classes at ACC. All of this is GOOD STUFF!
His family has been waiting for him to start turning things around in his life. I thought it was going to take a bit longer, but I have always known that it would happen. Why? Because I know where he comes from. He is smart and caring, but easily lets himself get side tracked with friends. I think his friends are realizing they too have to start doing some things differently. Only time will tell how this will all play out.
In the meantime, I am going to be there for him to encourage his continuing education. I'm not even sure if a college education does anything for you anymore or not, but it certainly can't hurt you. One thing is for sure, it will open up his horizons a bit and he will be exposed to other people and make new friends...it's what really matters!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Are We Livin' In "The Hood"
August 14, 2009 — Wanda and I have lived in south Austin for a good long while now. I'm not sure how long Wanda has been in this area, but I have been here since coming to Austin in the fall of 1986. I'm sure there are better areas in which to live, but south Austin has always fit my needs. It has just the right mix of folks I suppose, but it has always seemed to be so down to earth and I think it's because of the "redneck" influence. Rednecks know how to live and get along generally. They are friendly, earthy, loyal, and they like to have fun. But something is going wrong.
Last night our next door neighbors, who are deaf, had a window in one of their vehicles shot out by someone with a BB gun. Two blocks away there was another vehicle that had the same thing happen. Now we all say...oh it's just some damn teenagers who have nothing better to do and just want to be vandals. I suppose that is probably the case, but what gets into a young persons head to go and do something like that...if indeed it was a young person.
We have lived on the street we are on now for almost two years. In that time there have been, on no less than three occasions, incidents such as this. Some incidents are worse than others. Wanda's son who lives on this street had his vehicle broken into and ransacked. They stole some CD's and that was all. Wanda and I had our truck (the Juan Gomez) egged pretty good one night. There were reports approximately three months ago of several cars having windows smashed. All of it senseless crap.
So what leads people to do these sorts of things. Is it because of poor parenting by someone, is it the sign of the times (meaning the economy...house burglaries are up in this area), or is it just plain ol' boredom. I think back to when I was 12 or 13 years old and how my friends and I would on occasion get out of hand by throwing tomatoes and eggs at cars that were moving and then running like hell. We did it for something to do...because we were bored.
Some people say it will change when school starts up in another week. Maybe it will, but I am not sure. These are tough times and kids today think about things in an entirely different manner then the way I did at a young age. If you don't believe that then just take a look at some of the crap on MySpace or Facebook. To keep from living in "The Hood" one has to stay vigilant and take care of their stuff. I don't mean to get paranoid about it all...but just pay attention. It's what really matters!
Last night our next door neighbors, who are deaf, had a window in one of their vehicles shot out by someone with a BB gun. Two blocks away there was another vehicle that had the same thing happen. Now we all say...oh it's just some damn teenagers who have nothing better to do and just want to be vandals. I suppose that is probably the case, but what gets into a young persons head to go and do something like that...if indeed it was a young person.
We have lived on the street we are on now for almost two years. In that time there have been, on no less than three occasions, incidents such as this. Some incidents are worse than others. Wanda's son who lives on this street had his vehicle broken into and ransacked. They stole some CD's and that was all. Wanda and I had our truck (the Juan Gomez) egged pretty good one night. There were reports approximately three months ago of several cars having windows smashed. All of it senseless crap.
So what leads people to do these sorts of things. Is it because of poor parenting by someone, is it the sign of the times (meaning the economy...house burglaries are up in this area), or is it just plain ol' boredom. I think back to when I was 12 or 13 years old and how my friends and I would on occasion get out of hand by throwing tomatoes and eggs at cars that were moving and then running like hell. We did it for something to do...because we were bored.
Some people say it will change when school starts up in another week. Maybe it will, but I am not sure. These are tough times and kids today think about things in an entirely different manner then the way I did at a young age. If you don't believe that then just take a look at some of the crap on MySpace or Facebook. To keep from living in "The Hood" one has to stay vigilant and take care of their stuff. I don't mean to get paranoid about it all...but just pay attention. It's what really matters!
Some Political Thoughts
August 13, 2009 — It's been said that it is best not to discuss politics or religion with friends or you may end up with fewer friends. I've never subscribed to that theory as I have often had long and diligent discussions with a few friends on political and religious issues of the day. So why stop now.
I've never been a big fan of political labels. Oh, the standard party affiliation names Democrat, Republican, Libertarian etc are necessary. But what about Conservative, Liberal, Right, Left, and "Blue..." whatever they are calling that group of Dems involved in the current health care debate. It seems there is a repository of labels somewhere that someone is in charge of and when it becomes necessary, or they think it's necessary, they issue a new label. It's seems to be like the naming of tropical storms and hurricanes each year. I guess it makes it easier to identify the groups (duh!). A good friend of mine and I were briefly discussing the health care debate the other day and some how, as it always does, he injected what a big fan of Rush Limbaugh he was (uck!). I said I did not care for ol' Rush and then he asked me "...well you are a Conservative aren't you?" Basically I am I suppose and use to consider myself a dyed-in-the-wool Republican. I more accurately describe myself politically as an independent now days.
For instance, in the upcoming Republican primary to be held next March here in Texas, there is going to be this big race for the Republican nomination for Governor between the incumbent Rick Perry and the about to be former U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchinson or KBH as she is known in the media sometimes here in this state. I don't care for either of these politicians much especially Perry. So what am I to do. Well there does not seem to be another possible or already announced candidate that interest me so I am going to try and use common sense and go for the one that aligns the most with issues that concern me be they a Republican, Democrat, Independent, or Libertarian. I guess that is what we all do basically.
There are basic political issues that I am most concerned with and they relate to our military, our veterans, retirees, and children. I try to look at issues relating to those with common sense. Doesn't matter one bit to me whether I end up on the Liberal or Conservative side. Another thing is that I am not a big proponent of having a lot of government in my life. There needs to be some that is to be sure. But I don't want these politicians telling me I have to do this or that because of some law they passed. I can go with the flow, but when it steps out of the realm of common sense it rankles me.
I'll keep being active in political discussions with family, friends, or whoever. It's always good to hear both sides of an issue and someone else's opinion. It's what makes the world go round so to speak and as always...it's what really matters!
I've never been a big fan of political labels. Oh, the standard party affiliation names Democrat, Republican, Libertarian etc are necessary. But what about Conservative, Liberal, Right, Left, and "Blue..." whatever they are calling that group of Dems involved in the current health care debate. It seems there is a repository of labels somewhere that someone is in charge of and when it becomes necessary, or they think it's necessary, they issue a new label. It's seems to be like the naming of tropical storms and hurricanes each year. I guess it makes it easier to identify the groups (duh!). A good friend of mine and I were briefly discussing the health care debate the other day and some how, as it always does, he injected what a big fan of Rush Limbaugh he was (uck!). I said I did not care for ol' Rush and then he asked me "...well you are a Conservative aren't you?" Basically I am I suppose and use to consider myself a dyed-in-the-wool Republican. I more accurately describe myself politically as an independent now days.
For instance, in the upcoming Republican primary to be held next March here in Texas, there is going to be this big race for the Republican nomination for Governor between the incumbent Rick Perry and the about to be former U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchinson or KBH as she is known in the media sometimes here in this state. I don't care for either of these politicians much especially Perry. So what am I to do. Well there does not seem to be another possible or already announced candidate that interest me so I am going to try and use common sense and go for the one that aligns the most with issues that concern me be they a Republican, Democrat, Independent, or Libertarian. I guess that is what we all do basically.
There are basic political issues that I am most concerned with and they relate to our military, our veterans, retirees, and children. I try to look at issues relating to those with common sense. Doesn't matter one bit to me whether I end up on the Liberal or Conservative side. Another thing is that I am not a big proponent of having a lot of government in my life. There needs to be some that is to be sure. But I don't want these politicians telling me I have to do this or that because of some law they passed. I can go with the flow, but when it steps out of the realm of common sense it rankles me.
I'll keep being active in political discussions with family, friends, or whoever. It's always good to hear both sides of an issue and someone else's opinion. It's what makes the world go round so to speak and as always...it's what really matters!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Time On My Hands
August 12, 2009 — Since I have basically retired from the corporate world and have been staying at home, I find myself with a lot of time on my hands. It's not good to just sit around and I am sure most people realize that. So, I am looking for things that interest me that I can do that keep me intellectually engaged and somewhat active. I'm not talking about woodworking or doing handy man sorts of things. I am definitely not very good with a screwdriver in my hands. But using things like this computer or doing some teaching...now that is what I would like to do.
Anyone that knows me at all also knows that I am a big advocate of our military service men and women and their families. Even more so I am a strong advocate for that class of citizen known as Veterans. I am a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and an active member in my Post. That Post does not currently have a web site. Well I have the software tools and the skills to build and maintain such a web site. So, this Thursday I will make a proposal to the Executive Committee of the Post to get behind spending the money for a web hosting service and the appointing of a committee by the Post Commander to make recommendations to that Executive Committee on web site content. To me it is a sound proposal that could have many benefits for the Post and it's members. It is not only an inexpensive way of advertising our presence in our community, but could open many doors, or I should say windows, to our membership on issues affecting them and information about those issues that is available on the web. Yes, one has to be careful what they read and access on the web. You sure don't want to be guiding someone to bad information or blogs such a this one that might be slanted (more on that in a moment). I do know however it could have so many good benefits if it were available. Plus it is something that I like to do as a hobby...building web sites that is. Oh I almost forgot...I like to play golf also.
This teaching thing I believe is a part of me that I owe to my Mother and a couple of her sisters. I have had several siblings that were also very good teachers. I have spent a lot of time in the two careers I have followed in providing technical training and in technical training curriculum development. I like to teach and to lead others to an understanding of some issue or at least to a broader perspective of that issue. However, I have never done this formally with children or young adults. I have applied and been accepted by two school districts where I live to do substitute teaching this coming school year. I think it is going to be a great experience even though the opportunity to do some real teaching may be limited. I am certainly going to give it my best shot.
This blog started out so I could express myself about things that really matter to me. It has proven to be a time consumer because not only does it take me awhile to input this sometimes gibberish...as my typing skills are not the best and in fact are like the old newspaper reporter sitting at his Royal typewriter and tapping with two fingers. It has also caused me to stop and think about what it is I want to say and to do so intelligently. I do not know if I am successful at that or not or whether others read this blog, but I do know that it is very good for me. It's been stimulating and fun so far...and to me...it's what really matters!
Anyone that knows me at all also knows that I am a big advocate of our military service men and women and their families. Even more so I am a strong advocate for that class of citizen known as Veterans. I am a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and an active member in my Post. That Post does not currently have a web site. Well I have the software tools and the skills to build and maintain such a web site. So, this Thursday I will make a proposal to the Executive Committee of the Post to get behind spending the money for a web hosting service and the appointing of a committee by the Post Commander to make recommendations to that Executive Committee on web site content. To me it is a sound proposal that could have many benefits for the Post and it's members. It is not only an inexpensive way of advertising our presence in our community, but could open many doors, or I should say windows, to our membership on issues affecting them and information about those issues that is available on the web. Yes, one has to be careful what they read and access on the web. You sure don't want to be guiding someone to bad information or blogs such a this one that might be slanted (more on that in a moment). I do know however it could have so many good benefits if it were available. Plus it is something that I like to do as a hobby...building web sites that is. Oh I almost forgot...I like to play golf also.
This teaching thing I believe is a part of me that I owe to my Mother and a couple of her sisters. I have had several siblings that were also very good teachers. I have spent a lot of time in the two careers I have followed in providing technical training and in technical training curriculum development. I like to teach and to lead others to an understanding of some issue or at least to a broader perspective of that issue. However, I have never done this formally with children or young adults. I have applied and been accepted by two school districts where I live to do substitute teaching this coming school year. I think it is going to be a great experience even though the opportunity to do some real teaching may be limited. I am certainly going to give it my best shot.
This blog started out so I could express myself about things that really matter to me. It has proven to be a time consumer because not only does it take me awhile to input this sometimes gibberish...as my typing skills are not the best and in fact are like the old newspaper reporter sitting at his Royal typewriter and tapping with two fingers. It has also caused me to stop and think about what it is I want to say and to do so intelligently. I do not know if I am successful at that or not or whether others read this blog, but I do know that it is very good for me. It's been stimulating and fun so far...and to me...it's what really matters!
Angiogram
August 11, 2009 — Well I missed blogging yesterday as I was preparing to have an angiogram at the VA hospital in San Antonio. What an experience it was.
At this hospital there is a team of three cardiologist, an RN, and two or three technicians that conduct the exam. The RN and the technicians do all the prep of course and it was probably the most uncomfortable part of it all. There are just so many things that they have to connect to you. Lying on the table under the xray cameras is the most uncomfortable, For a big man like myself this narrow, long table is hard as a rock and they give this little bitty pillow/pad thing for your head. Of course that is for good reason as they don't want you moving around and looking up or down to see what is happening while the cardiologist is working his/her magic. The table and cameras are fully movable and again for good reason. You end up with all sorts of wires hooked to your "bod" and the ever present IV pumping a saline solution into you.
During the test, your asked to put your hands behind you head so as to keep the arms out of the picture. Whatever you do it's not a good idea to place your hands or attempt to on the sterile sheet they have spread across the entire length of your body. That gets you yelled at. Two of the cardiologist are doing the routing of the catheter that in most cases like mine was inserted in the right femoral artery. The other cardiologist is sitting at monitors in another room and doing the heavy analysis of the images displayed. At some point towards the end of the exam they inject a contrasting solution and warn you that you will feel a heat sensation throughout your body. Oh how true that is. If you have ever wondered where blood flows, especially in the trunk of your body, you won't wonder after having experienced this sensation. When the procedure is complete they like to use what is known as an "angio-seal" which is a vascular closure device to close up the access into your artery. This of course is very important. With the use of this device (which dissolves over time) the recovery time (meaning you lay flat and don't move that leg) is two hours. In some cases, the device can't be used and they have to resort to pressure and the recovery time stretches out to four to six hours. Luckily they used the seal on me.
All-in-all the entire experience lasted about one hour from the time they came to get me in my room until I was returned to the room. The procedure was professionally executed and my hat is off to these pros. The results of the test were that I have no significant artery blockage, the valves of my heart are fine, and the heart muscle pumps at the proper pressure. All of this is really good stuff! So now I have to continue my battle to quit smoking, watch my cholesterol level which is a little high right now, and watch my BP and that has never been an issue for me. It's been a very good experience and I now feel relieved on some of my health issues...it's what really matters!
At this hospital there is a team of three cardiologist, an RN, and two or three technicians that conduct the exam. The RN and the technicians do all the prep of course and it was probably the most uncomfortable part of it all. There are just so many things that they have to connect to you. Lying on the table under the xray cameras is the most uncomfortable, For a big man like myself this narrow, long table is hard as a rock and they give this little bitty pillow/pad thing for your head. Of course that is for good reason as they don't want you moving around and looking up or down to see what is happening while the cardiologist is working his/her magic. The table and cameras are fully movable and again for good reason. You end up with all sorts of wires hooked to your "bod" and the ever present IV pumping a saline solution into you.
During the test, your asked to put your hands behind you head so as to keep the arms out of the picture. Whatever you do it's not a good idea to place your hands or attempt to on the sterile sheet they have spread across the entire length of your body. That gets you yelled at. Two of the cardiologist are doing the routing of the catheter that in most cases like mine was inserted in the right femoral artery. The other cardiologist is sitting at monitors in another room and doing the heavy analysis of the images displayed. At some point towards the end of the exam they inject a contrasting solution and warn you that you will feel a heat sensation throughout your body. Oh how true that is. If you have ever wondered where blood flows, especially in the trunk of your body, you won't wonder after having experienced this sensation. When the procedure is complete they like to use what is known as an "angio-seal" which is a vascular closure device to close up the access into your artery. This of course is very important. With the use of this device (which dissolves over time) the recovery time (meaning you lay flat and don't move that leg) is two hours. In some cases, the device can't be used and they have to resort to pressure and the recovery time stretches out to four to six hours. Luckily they used the seal on me.
All-in-all the entire experience lasted about one hour from the time they came to get me in my room until I was returned to the room. The procedure was professionally executed and my hat is off to these pros. The results of the test were that I have no significant artery blockage, the valves of my heart are fine, and the heart muscle pumps at the proper pressure. All of this is really good stuff! So now I have to continue my battle to quit smoking, watch my cholesterol level which is a little high right now, and watch my BP and that has never been an issue for me. It's been a very good experience and I now feel relieved on some of my health issues...it's what really matters!
Sunday, August 9, 2009
A Matter of the Heart - Revisited
August 9, 2009 — I am making a little trip to San Antonio today to check-in to the Audie L. Murphy VA Medical Center so that they can do an angiogram on me Monday morning. I didn't get the call about this until this past Friday morning, so Wanda and I have been scrambling a bit to get everything lined up so that our pets are looked after and she is cleared from work. Why all the fuss you might say? Well seems it is unknown as to just what all might get done or need to be done based on this angiogram....it could be nothing...it could mean stents being inserted...or it could mean bypass surgery. All of these affect just how long I might have to stay.
I have done my reading on angiograms and stents and understand fairly well what to expect. I am not however very excited about bypass surgery. All that the cardiologist told me was it depended on blockage/s being found, and he was fairly certain that would be the case, and just how sever the situation. Well okay...I am not one to mistrust Drs out of hand. I do have the concerns of my current abdominal aorta aneurysm and my history of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). So I have made sure that all of that is documented in my VA medical chart. I will again reiterate those points with the medicos at Audie L. Murphy. So I am ready and willing to get on with this.
A couple of other points before I go and those concern the debate that is raging over changes in health care in this country. It is becoming increasingly apparent that there is little effort being made to have constructive bipartisan debate by our government on this issue. This is just so wrong! I do not condone those that are demonstrating disruptively so at various town hall meetings being held by some elected officials. While I defend their right to demonstrate... being disruptive in doing so only complicates and adds nothing to the debate. I also do not condone a legislator telling his constituents he was supporting the Presidents position regardless of how those constituents might feel. That's what mine did. And, the President continues to alarm the public by saying that this health care issue is a major factor in the state of the economy. Again, he is using a scare tactic and not telling the truth. The media is also of no help (not to surprisingly) as their major focus is now turning away from the facts and instead centering on those few that are demonstrating in the wrong way. Talk about a need for getting a grip...the news media needs to do that.
Well I do not know just when I will get to blog again...hopefully it will only be a day or so. In the meantime, I encourage us all to keep seeking the truth in everything...it's what really matters!
I have done my reading on angiograms and stents and understand fairly well what to expect. I am not however very excited about bypass surgery. All that the cardiologist told me was it depended on blockage/s being found, and he was fairly certain that would be the case, and just how sever the situation. Well okay...I am not one to mistrust Drs out of hand. I do have the concerns of my current abdominal aorta aneurysm and my history of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). So I have made sure that all of that is documented in my VA medical chart. I will again reiterate those points with the medicos at Audie L. Murphy. So I am ready and willing to get on with this.
A couple of other points before I go and those concern the debate that is raging over changes in health care in this country. It is becoming increasingly apparent that there is little effort being made to have constructive bipartisan debate by our government on this issue. This is just so wrong! I do not condone those that are demonstrating disruptively so at various town hall meetings being held by some elected officials. While I defend their right to demonstrate... being disruptive in doing so only complicates and adds nothing to the debate. I also do not condone a legislator telling his constituents he was supporting the Presidents position regardless of how those constituents might feel. That's what mine did. And, the President continues to alarm the public by saying that this health care issue is a major factor in the state of the economy. Again, he is using a scare tactic and not telling the truth. The media is also of no help (not to surprisingly) as their major focus is now turning away from the facts and instead centering on those few that are demonstrating in the wrong way. Talk about a need for getting a grip...the news media needs to do that.
Well I do not know just when I will get to blog again...hopefully it will only be a day or so. In the meantime, I encourage us all to keep seeking the truth in everything...it's what really matters!
Saturday, August 8, 2009
A Parenting Blog...Facebook...And
August 8, 2009 — The wife of a nephew of mine writes a blog about parenting http://unchartedparent.com/. It is really a very well written and thought out blog about raising their two children. In reading some of her blogs it takes me back to some of the things I encountered in helping to raise my four children. Some of what she writes I can apply to one of my kids right now and this one is no longer a youngster. One that comes to mind is about her four year old daughter and her use of having a "stummyache" to get around a certain issue. Kids try this sort of thing even when they are 19 years old. Anyway, if you want to read some humorous and thought provoking stuff just checkout the above blog. I'm sure you will enjoy.
Now something about all these social web sites. I didn't think I would ever have a "profile", or whatever it is they call it, on Facebook. It is sort of keen that you have these friends that you can hook up with and write things on each others walls and all the friends can see the writings. By the way, didn't it use to get you in big trouble if you wrote on the wall? The thing about Facebook that I do not understand is all the other little gadgets that are available. It's almost overwhelming. Maybe it wouldn't be so if I took the time to investigate them, but then I wouldn't have time for anything else. I guess I'm just not a big enough computer geek or do you have to be one to figure out what all is going on. Oh well, guess I won't worry about it. I'll just keep making my occasional comment about what others write and on occasion through something up on my own wall. In the end it's what really matters!
P.S. I'll leave the And for later.
Now something about all these social web sites. I didn't think I would ever have a "profile", or whatever it is they call it, on Facebook. It is sort of keen that you have these friends that you can hook up with and write things on each others walls and all the friends can see the writings. By the way, didn't it use to get you in big trouble if you wrote on the wall? The thing about Facebook that I do not understand is all the other little gadgets that are available. It's almost overwhelming. Maybe it wouldn't be so if I took the time to investigate them, but then I wouldn't have time for anything else. I guess I'm just not a big enough computer geek or do you have to be one to figure out what all is going on. Oh well, guess I won't worry about it. I'll just keep making my occasional comment about what others write and on occasion through something up on my own wall. In the end it's what really matters!
P.S. I'll leave the And for later.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Big Al
August 7, 2009 — My son lost his dog yesterday. Alexis aka Alex, aka Big Al died fairly peacefully at home some time on Wednesday night. My son and his Mom have had Big Al since they found her basically as a stray outside a vets office a good many years ago. She was some sort of mix and I am not sure a mix of what, but she was one fine dog.
You just could not help but love a dog like Big Al. She was playful, friendly, and very faithful. I don't remember how old my son was when they took Big Al in, but they were very close over the years. He adored her and it was likewise for Big Al.
It's hard, and I mean very hard when you loose a family member. If you have ever loved a dog and then had to see him or her pass on it is absolutely gut wrenching. They just become such a big and important part of our lives and we just can't imagine not being without them. You sometimes wonder just how the world could get so messed up at a time like this.
One thing is for sure though. The memories of Alex will live in many people for a long time. It is also somewhat comforting to know that she no longer suffers and tries to keep on going. She just finally got tired and laid down and said this is it I am going to chase rabbits. It's what really matters!
You just could not help but love a dog like Big Al. She was playful, friendly, and very faithful. I don't remember how old my son was when they took Big Al in, but they were very close over the years. He adored her and it was likewise for Big Al.
It's hard, and I mean very hard when you loose a family member. If you have ever loved a dog and then had to see him or her pass on it is absolutely gut wrenching. They just become such a big and important part of our lives and we just can't imagine not being without them. You sometimes wonder just how the world could get so messed up at a time like this.
One thing is for sure though. The memories of Alex will live in many people for a long time. It is also somewhat comforting to know that she no longer suffers and tries to keep on going. She just finally got tired and laid down and said this is it I am going to chase rabbits. It's what really matters!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Oops I Missed A Day
August 6, 2009 — Yesterday was a busy one for Wanda and me. I am starting each day out now by taking MollyB, our 6-month old Golden Retriever, to my VFW Post where there is a large field for her to run. And when I say run, this young lady can do just that. She absolutely loves it and she gets more exercise this way then she ever would with me or Wanda walking her. I then had an 8 a.m. vet appointment for her and she got the last of her puppy shots. So vaccinated and gaining weight as she should, MollyB is set for a year.
Well MollyB wasn't the only one that had to go to the vet...er Dr. Wanda had an appointment with her new Primary Care Manager (PCM) at 10:30 a.m. We recently changed health insurance (thank you Mr. President we are insured and quite satisfied with it) and this necessitated the change in Drs for her. Wanda has similar health issues like mine. She takes a thyroid supplement and cholesterol meds and she also has COPD and uses two different inhalers. She also wants to quit smoking and this PCM wanted her to go on some new med that supposedly works wonders. Well our insurance would not cover it (go figure) and we just can't handle the $130+ cost of this stuff for a two week period. Nah, ain't happening. So she will contact her again and ask for a Rx of Wellbutrin which is what she wanted in the first place. She had her blood tested as those with thyroid and cholesterol problems need to have done periodically to ensure their med levels are correct and will see this Dr again in a month so adjustments can be made if necessary. Ain't nothin' like gettin' a tuneup. Now that I have violated HIPPA all to hell...
It's still very hot here in Central Texas and all over the state for that matter. This area is hard hit though with drought. We are just not getting any rain at all. There is no end in sight for this either.
Well the favorite fall past time for Texans is almost here. It is known as Texas High School football and it is king in this state. If you saw the movie Friday Night Lights it was an excellent portrayal of this sport here in Texas. It is an exciting game and many fortunes and aspirations of families are wrapped up in it all. Probably more than should be, but there are worse things. It does bring young people together in a team atmosphere and the bands and dance teams are great also. Families just revel in it all and it's what really matters!
Well MollyB wasn't the only one that had to go to the vet...er Dr. Wanda had an appointment with her new Primary Care Manager (PCM) at 10:30 a.m. We recently changed health insurance (thank you Mr. President we are insured and quite satisfied with it) and this necessitated the change in Drs for her. Wanda has similar health issues like mine. She takes a thyroid supplement and cholesterol meds and she also has COPD and uses two different inhalers. She also wants to quit smoking and this PCM wanted her to go on some new med that supposedly works wonders. Well our insurance would not cover it (go figure) and we just can't handle the $130+ cost of this stuff for a two week period. Nah, ain't happening. So she will contact her again and ask for a Rx of Wellbutrin which is what she wanted in the first place. She had her blood tested as those with thyroid and cholesterol problems need to have done periodically to ensure their med levels are correct and will see this Dr again in a month so adjustments can be made if necessary. Ain't nothin' like gettin' a tuneup. Now that I have violated HIPPA all to hell...
It's still very hot here in Central Texas and all over the state for that matter. This area is hard hit though with drought. We are just not getting any rain at all. There is no end in sight for this either.
Well the favorite fall past time for Texans is almost here. It is known as Texas High School football and it is king in this state. If you saw the movie Friday Night Lights it was an excellent portrayal of this sport here in Texas. It is an exciting game and many fortunes and aspirations of families are wrapped up in it all. Probably more than should be, but there are worse things. It does bring young people together in a team atmosphere and the bands and dance teams are great also. Families just revel in it all and it's what really matters!
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
You Are Not Forgotten
August 4, 2009 — The title of today's blog is sort of the battle cry of many POW/MIA organizations in this country. These groups have come into being primarily as a result of the Vietnam War, but has come to encompass all POW/MIA from all wars this country has been involved in. There are other battle cries also such as We Shall Never Forget. What do these battle cries mean? Well the recent discovery of the remains of Navy Capt. Michael "Scott" Speicher tells it all. http://www.military.com/news/article/missing-pilots-remains-found.html?col=1186032325324
Someone, somewhere has never forgotten Capt. Speicher and they did not forget for over 18 years. Capt. Speicher was the first air casualty of the first Gulf War and was lost on January 17, 1991 just after the start of action in that war. Someone never gave up on finding this airman and in bringing him home. Someone did the right thing. And oh how proud it makes me feel. Capt. Speicher's family now knows for sure what happened to him and can give some sort of closure to it all. Now they will have a place that is not in some distant and foreign land to which they can go to honor him and to remember.
There are many such stories like this that have been happening since the government has made an effort to find out what has happened to the many POW/MIA. Some of these stories are heartwarming and some are truly tragic. I have had the honor to be a part of a dedication my VFW Post made to one such POW/MIA. The Mother of one of our members had worn a POW/MIA bracelet of Major Larry James Hanley a US Air Force pilot gone missing over Laos on November 4, 1968. Up until February 6, 1979 when he was officially declared "Hostile-Died Missing" he was simply listed as missing in action. Our member's Mom wore that bracelet from the time they first came out and gave it to her son some years later. Our Post decided to adopt Maj Hanley as our special POW/MIA and in September 2003 we dedicated an entire wall in our Post home to the memory of him and all POW/MIA. I am proud to say that the wall memorial was made possible by a generous contribution of my niece. She did the right thing! By the way, the dedication ceremony was attended by one of Maj Hanley's sisters and her husband from Washington state. It was a great day!
So, the battle cry You Are Not Forgotten has a deep meaning. It is something the people of this country should always remember. It's what really matters!
Someone, somewhere has never forgotten Capt. Speicher and they did not forget for over 18 years. Capt. Speicher was the first air casualty of the first Gulf War and was lost on January 17, 1991 just after the start of action in that war. Someone never gave up on finding this airman and in bringing him home. Someone did the right thing. And oh how proud it makes me feel. Capt. Speicher's family now knows for sure what happened to him and can give some sort of closure to it all. Now they will have a place that is not in some distant and foreign land to which they can go to honor him and to remember.
There are many such stories like this that have been happening since the government has made an effort to find out what has happened to the many POW/MIA. Some of these stories are heartwarming and some are truly tragic. I have had the honor to be a part of a dedication my VFW Post made to one such POW/MIA. The Mother of one of our members had worn a POW/MIA bracelet of Major Larry James Hanley a US Air Force pilot gone missing over Laos on November 4, 1968. Up until February 6, 1979 when he was officially declared "Hostile-Died Missing" he was simply listed as missing in action. Our member's Mom wore that bracelet from the time they first came out and gave it to her son some years later. Our Post decided to adopt Maj Hanley as our special POW/MIA and in September 2003 we dedicated an entire wall in our Post home to the memory of him and all POW/MIA. I am proud to say that the wall memorial was made possible by a generous contribution of my niece. She did the right thing! By the way, the dedication ceremony was attended by one of Maj Hanley's sisters and her husband from Washington state. It was a great day!
So, the battle cry You Are Not Forgotten has a deep meaning. It is something the people of this country should always remember. It's what really matters!
Monday, August 3, 2009
Golf and Tiger Woods
August 3, 2009 — My kids use to ask me how I could watch a golf tourney on TV. They always found it boring and maybe thought I was a bore because I did so. Well now three of my kids play the game and they don't mind watching it on TV now either. Funny how things change.
I've been an avid golf fan and player of the game almost all my life. I just think it's great fun hittin' that little white ball around the ol' cow pasture. Notice I said white ball. When the Scots invented the game they did not play with orange, green, or pink golf balls. Uck! The thought of trying to hit an orange golf ball almost sickens me. A golf ball is white...period! All other colors should be band.
My favorite golfer of all time is Arnold Palmer. He was magic in his day and yes I have been a proud member of his army for years. His age now precludes him from playing much if at all. But, in my book he has been the best. Oh maybe not always the winner, but no one has ever captured the imagination of golf fans like he has. What a great ambassador of the game. Then there is Jack Nicklaus. I always thought he was the enemy to Arnie's Army. I didn't care much for him in his early years, but he too is such a great player and person. Then there has been Gary Player, Lee Trevino, Tom Watson, Johnny Miller, and guys still playing like sweet swingin' Fred Couples. All very good golfers.
But, when it is all said and done there is only one that is going to stand out as the greatest of all time and that's Tiger Woods. Or at least that is my opinion. Oh I know we all talk about different eras and different equipment and there is something to be said for all of that. But I think it is fair to make a statement that Tiger will be the greatest...isn't he always compared to those of a different era? He has had a very good year although through three majors this year he has yet to win one and I bet that does not sit well with him. He even missed the cut at The Open Championship. Yesterday he won the Buick Championship for the third time in his career and he did it without his "A" game. Of his four rounds he only had one that was absolutely stellar...a blazing 63 on Friday. The rest of the time he it the ball all over the yard. But when he sets his sight on winning there is no one around that can beat him. He has proven that time and time again.
So, I'll keep watching the golf telecast on TV and playing my occasional round. In two weeks I'm betting Tiger will end his major championship drought and win the PGA Championship. Even if he does not I'm betting he will make it damn interesting. He always does when he tees it up and it's what really matters!
I've been an avid golf fan and player of the game almost all my life. I just think it's great fun hittin' that little white ball around the ol' cow pasture. Notice I said white ball. When the Scots invented the game they did not play with orange, green, or pink golf balls. Uck! The thought of trying to hit an orange golf ball almost sickens me. A golf ball is white...period! All other colors should be band.
My favorite golfer of all time is Arnold Palmer. He was magic in his day and yes I have been a proud member of his army for years. His age now precludes him from playing much if at all. But, in my book he has been the best. Oh maybe not always the winner, but no one has ever captured the imagination of golf fans like he has. What a great ambassador of the game. Then there is Jack Nicklaus. I always thought he was the enemy to Arnie's Army. I didn't care much for him in his early years, but he too is such a great player and person. Then there has been Gary Player, Lee Trevino, Tom Watson, Johnny Miller, and guys still playing like sweet swingin' Fred Couples. All very good golfers.
But, when it is all said and done there is only one that is going to stand out as the greatest of all time and that's Tiger Woods. Or at least that is my opinion. Oh I know we all talk about different eras and different equipment and there is something to be said for all of that. But I think it is fair to make a statement that Tiger will be the greatest...isn't he always compared to those of a different era? He has had a very good year although through three majors this year he has yet to win one and I bet that does not sit well with him. He even missed the cut at The Open Championship. Yesterday he won the Buick Championship for the third time in his career and he did it without his "A" game. Of his four rounds he only had one that was absolutely stellar...a blazing 63 on Friday. The rest of the time he it the ball all over the yard. But when he sets his sight on winning there is no one around that can beat him. He has proven that time and time again.
So, I'll keep watching the golf telecast on TV and playing my occasional round. In two weeks I'm betting Tiger will end his major championship drought and win the PGA Championship. Even if he does not I'm betting he will make it damn interesting. He always does when he tees it up and it's what really matters!
Saturday, August 1, 2009
The Medal of Honor
August 2, 2009 — There is somewhat of a disturbing news account that has just come out about the number of Medal of Honor (MOH), our nations highest decoration for our military personnel, that have been awarded in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Seven nominations have been made and six have been awarded all posthumously. The criteria for awarding the MOH is strict as it should be, but I wonder if there isn't more at play here then meets the eye.
It's disturbing to me that the nomination for the MOH that was not approved concerns a Marine that was wounded by friendly fire and yet was able to throw himself on an insurgents grenade and keep the blast from killing some of his fellow Marines. There is an eye witness account of what this Marine did. And yet, Secretary of Defense Gates chose to convene an independent panel consisting of a former commanding general, a Medal of Honor recipient, a neurosurgeon and two pathologists to review this case. It was each reviewers individual conclusion that the facts did not meet the "no doubt" standards used in awarding the MOH. You can read the USAToday.com account of this story here: http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2009-08-01-medalofhonor_N.htm.
I just think this is so wrong.
If one eye witness can verify another's valor in battle then that should far outweigh any implied expert opinion of others that were not there. In eight years these wars have been raging only six medals have been awarded. In the four plus years of WWII there were 464. Go figure...
Why do we continue to put our military personnel in a different class of people. Why do we continue to not give them their due. They are the ones that pay the price for our FREEdoms. Notice that they pay a price...as freedom is not free. Wake up America...the parade is passing us by. Honor our military personnel and our veterans at every opportunity...it's what really matters!
It's disturbing to me that the nomination for the MOH that was not approved concerns a Marine that was wounded by friendly fire and yet was able to throw himself on an insurgents grenade and keep the blast from killing some of his fellow Marines. There is an eye witness account of what this Marine did. And yet, Secretary of Defense Gates chose to convene an independent panel consisting of a former commanding general, a Medal of Honor recipient, a neurosurgeon and two pathologists to review this case. It was each reviewers individual conclusion that the facts did not meet the "no doubt" standards used in awarding the MOH. You can read the USAToday.com account of this story here: http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2009-08-01-medalofhonor_N.htm.
I just think this is so wrong.
If one eye witness can verify another's valor in battle then that should far outweigh any implied expert opinion of others that were not there. In eight years these wars have been raging only six medals have been awarded. In the four plus years of WWII there were 464. Go figure...
Why do we continue to put our military personnel in a different class of people. Why do we continue to not give them their due. They are the ones that pay the price for our FREEdoms. Notice that they pay a price...as freedom is not free. Wake up America...the parade is passing us by. Honor our military personnel and our veterans at every opportunity...it's what really matters!
Strugglin'
August 1, 2009 — Damn cigarettes anyway! I am just not having any success at givin' up the nasty habit of smoking. You ever hear the expression "you couldn't do (something) if your life depended on it." Well mine does and so does everyone else that smokes. There are tremendous physiological and psychological forces going on for someone that smokes. It has been my experience in the past that the physiological issues are fairly easy to get through. The "head" stuff is another matter. I think I just need to sit down and really spend some time in thinking through all of the good things I will be gaining when I do quit smoking. Of all my health problems going on right now probably the most serious and immediate is clogged arteries in my heart. Smoking is no doubt the #1 cause of the problems I am having there. Well dummy, you'd better quit smoking or it's never going to get better...only worse.
Wanda is going to her Dr on the 5th of this month and one of the things she plans on discussing with her is to quit smoking. She wants to try Wellbutrin and hopefully her Dr will concur. Maybe with the both of us working at this together we will find success in mutual support. We are working on a lot of things together and having a great time doing so...it's what really matters!
Wanda is going to her Dr on the 5th of this month and one of the things she plans on discussing with her is to quit smoking. She wants to try Wellbutrin and hopefully her Dr will concur. Maybe with the both of us working at this together we will find success in mutual support. We are working on a lot of things together and having a great time doing so...it's what really matters!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
