tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198728522024-03-19T01:05:55.823-04:00My Corner of ConnecticutChristianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.comBlogger154125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-11622455023828240552012-02-17T19:53:00.000-05:002012-02-17T19:53:31.332-05:00Must See TV...I realize that I have been noticeably absent from the blogosphere. It is something a high school friend reminded me of when he sent an email recently, and I just spent an hour catching up reading some family blogs as I sit here and wait for Sue to come home for the evening. As a result, I thought I should attempt a comeback. The theme for today is television shows that are "must see" in our household in Wallingford.<br />
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I have never been much of a couch potato. I tend to be a very regimented person and a creature of routine. This is something that Sue often teases me about but then she says it is one of the many things she loves about me. My current work schedule is all over the map with very early mornings or late evenings and all times in between. <br />
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Together however, we do find time to enjoy some of our favorite shows together, and now that the February sweeps are in full swing the DVR stays busy during primetime throughout the week. We watch a lot of things from drama, reality, and the good old fashioned sit-com. Some shows she has introduced me to, others, I have introduced her to, and others still we look at each other and say, "we should check that one out." <br />
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Here are some of our favorites and why we enjoy them.<br />
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<strong>Survivor</strong><br />
This is one that I started watching way back in 2000 when it began the reality show genre in earnest. After watching for several seasons, I got bored with it, or just spent my evenings being a father to young children during the pre DVR time period. I began watching again a couple of years ago when my children were old enough and the theme was Heroes vs. Villans. It featured the return of some of my favorite castaways, and I got back into it along with my children. Even now that they don't live full time with me, they wait until they come to our house and then catch up on the DVR every two weeks. It is something special they share with me. <br />
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Jeff Probst is the host and continues to show why he is great at what he does. He enjoys his job and it shows. By the end of 39 days the remaining few survivors are beat up psychologically and physically. It is very entertaining!<br />
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<strong>True Blood</strong><br />
Brought to us by the great creators at HBO, True Blood is a show set in modern day Louisiana. In it, vampires have "come out of the coffin" thanks to a synthetic blood that was invented in Japan. As a result they can co-exist with humans. True Blood is strictly a fantasy show, but is gritty, dark and very entertaining. I have always enjoyed the vampire genre since being a kid, so this was something that interested me when I read about it. A great cast, certainly does help too!<br />
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I introduced Sue to this and although she is not a fan of the horror genre (True Blood can be gory), she borrowed my season one DVD's and watched them over a weekend early in our relationship. She now watches it religiously with me when it airs each summer on Sunday evenings. Just last night I reminded her that before long, season five will be starting. <br />
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<strong>Boardwalk Empire</strong><br />
Yet another one of HBO great series, this show is a crime drama based in the 1920's. Set in Atlantic City during the prohibition era, this show features silver screen alumnus, Steve Buscemi as Enoch "Nucky" Thompson. Mr. Thompson is the County Treasurer of Atlantic County and is very corrupt. The show is epic in its portrayal of the prohibition era including great sets and great costuming to give the show a very authentic and historical look. <br />
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This is another Sunday evening HBO show that we watch together faithfully. It parallels historical records of gangsters such as Arnold Rothstein, Lucky Luciano, and Al Capone. It is yet another home run by our friends at HBO.<br />
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<strong>Celebrity Apprentice</strong><br />
Yes, I know some people consider Trump to be arrogant, pompous and always looking for press, but we got into this last year. We just started watching one evening on a whim, but then remained glued for the remainder of the season. It was great seeing people such as Gary Busey and Meatloaf attempting to raise money for charity. Meatloaf was quite good but Gary not so much. As time went on, I became a John Rich fan and was happy to see him win in the finale. <br />
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This season starts on Sunday and I am looking forward to the cast that Trump has put together. Arsenio Hall, Clay Aiken, George Takkei, Paul Teutel, Victoria Gotti, Debbie Gibson, Teresa Giudice are just of few of the 18 celebs that will raise money for charity in the months ahead. <br />
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I am happy to have DVR. The show airs, 9-11 on Sunday nights and I have to be at work on Mondays at 5:00 AM. Chances are this will be added to our Monday night lineup thanks to the DVR!<br />
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<strong>Two and a Half Men</strong><br />
This show Sue got me hooked on. With all of the press that Charlie Sheen was getting last summer, Sue asked me if I saw this show and that it was really funny. I had never seen it, but upon watching a few reruns, I realized I enjoyed it a lot. Winning!<br />
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We now watch it weekly and think Ashton Kutcher is a pretty good addition/replacement to the cast. As a result of watching this show, the show that airs right after is the next show on the list.<br />
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<strong>Mike and Molly</strong><br />
We have been hearing a lot about Melissa McCarthy and as we watched the recent awards shows, we have been hearing a lot about the female lead. We decided to add this show to our routine and quickly got into it. It's a great show!<br />
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<strong>Modern Family</strong><br />
For months, I kept hearing about this great show and you literally have to be living under a rock to not know about it many awards and cast who appears to be everywhere. Married with Children alumnus, Ed O'Neil plays the patriarch of a family. He is the older man with a significantly younger and beautiful latino wife. His daughter has a "fairly" conventional family with a husband and 3 children, and then he has a son who is gay and has partner. Together they have an adopted daughter. The show is set in a mockumentary style kind of like The Office. This is probably my new favorite show. It never fails to make me laugh and often times Sue and I look at each other and just crack up watching it. <br />
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Well, that took a little while to post but it certainly made my evening go by pretty quick! The even better news is that Sue will be home in a few minutes!<br />
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Ciao for now!Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-34913689214397192632011-08-27T19:15:00.003-04:002011-08-27T19:22:47.482-04:00Hurricane IreneWell she is on her way...Hurricane Irene. The hype was building all week. Last evening, the humidity arrived, this morning the showers arrived, and this afternoon, more steady rain began to fall. Overnight, the wind will arrive along with torrential rain.<div>
<br /></div><div>Working at The Home Depot has been rather interesting this week. Generators first flew off the shelfs, then flew off trucks upon arrival. D batteries went first, followed by C Batteries and 6 volts. Today people were buying downspouts and pipes to draw the water away from their homes.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>I am now home to ride out the storm. Food is stocked. We have propane for the grill, cars are gassed up, and we have enough food to last for a few days. Prior to going to bed, the tub will be filled with a water supply in case we lose our water supply. One of my main concerns is Jasmine being able to go outside to do her thang!!! </div><div>
<br /></div><div>Connecticut appears that it will have a landfall sometime during mid morning tomorrow (8/28). It should be a rather interesting day and a half. </div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-25737953723291016982011-08-12T21:00:00.002-04:002011-08-12T21:20:57.405-04:00Recent Rants...Wow, hello again blogosphere! It's been too long. I have kept up with family blogs, but with the Facebook revolution, I became lazy with blogging. Maybe I will change this, maybe I won't, but I'm here now, so lets roll.<div>
<br /></div><div>A lot has happened in the last year, divorce, career change, and new love. It's amazing when I look back at the last year and ponder how much my life has changed. It's all been for the most part good, and I am in a very happy place right now. I couldn't say that for the last several years.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>It's amazing how a single event can have so much effect on one's life. My divorce had an effect on time with children, career, living arrangements. Should that be? I would tend to think no, but that could be a blog for another day. I definitely don't feel like going there today!</div><div>
<br /></div><div>It's hard to believe that summer 2011 is almost over! Labor day is in 3 weeks! Wow, where does the time go? At least I do know where my Christmas tree is! Perhaps I will actually put one up this year! </div><div>
<br /></div><div>Politicians in Washington are a hot mess are they not? Why can't they just put party aside and fix the country? Now we have the start of a Presidential race, so the mud slinging will begin in earnest. I read recently that Obama's team is ready to "beat" Mitt Romney. If the economy doesn't improve, I'm thinking Mr. Obama will need a lot more than his hired best. The 280+ million Americans are a fickle group and will vote for anyone different in a time of domestic crisis. I don't think the brightest republican is the answer either, but we need our elected officials to roll up their sleeves and go to work! </div><div>
<br /></div><div>On a bright note, I decided to do a tune up on my car, my first ever. The car I bought in March is a low mileage older car, but had a clean CarFax report so I went ahead and bought it. It did however, run rough with the A/C on. I utilized the free diagnostic service at AutoZone and determined it needed a tune up. I had the AutoZone associate explain to me what I needed to do, and then spent the next 90 minutes tuning up my car. It runs so much better and I can use my A/C without it running rough! I guess I am getting resourceful in my old age!</div><div>
<br /></div><div>The Yankees are doing ok. It would seem that they will clinch a playoff berth unless they fall flat the last 6 weeks. October should be fun. Will we get a NY/Boston LCS? That would make for some long, stressful nights.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>I took my kids to an air museum today and assisted them with a flight simulator. Had a huge ego boost when the museum staff asked if I was a pilot when they saw me assisting my kids land a Cessna in the simulator. Both kids landed the plane with my assistance. </div><div>
<br /></div><div>Just some rants on this cooler New England night. Until next time...</div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-7891378566436313902010-03-28T19:11:00.003-04:002010-03-28T19:33:12.219-04:00Spoiling MyselfSince starting this new adventure in my life these past couple of months, I have decided that each paycheck that I am going to spoil myself a little bit. My expenses are rather low now living alone and that leaves me with the "funds" to spoil myself...just a little bit.<br /><div><div>Two weeks ago, I purchased a new GPS for myself. I gave Elaine my old one due to the fact that she is by far more directionally challenged than I. That is not a dig at her, but rather the blatant truth. In the interim I was using VZ Navigator on my BlackBerry. I did not like that for a few reasons. One, it killed the battery on the phone! Two, I couldn't text or read text that came in while I was driving, or place any calls without shutting down the application. </div><br /><div>I decided that I was going to buy myself a new GPS because I was tired of using the VZ Navigator for the above mentioned reasons, as well as the $9.99/month charge to my Verizon Wireless Bill. </div><br /><div>I began shopping and realized I wanted to get a decent GPS. It had to say street names and be a large screen model. Upon checking out Best Buy.com, I realized that the TomTom XL540S was on sale for 50% off. This GPS has a huge 5 inch screen and has advanced lane guidance. That feature shows a photo realistic image of the highway, and tells you what lane to be in for your exit or your through traffic at busy interchanges. I got right into the car, and drove to BestBuy, and was happy they had one in stock. </div><br /><div>Last week when Tracy was down visiting, she and I went into the Sunglass Hut and I found a pair of Oakley Sunglasses that I absolutely loved. They fit my face well and looked good on me. I determined that when I got paid, I would pick up a pair. I have always wanted a good pair of sunglasses but never splurged on them. Well yesterday I did, and I really like the Oakley's. They have polarized lenses and are just about perfect as far as using them for driving in sunlight. </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 390px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 359px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453831149054790690" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiVfoJ6BMts57GxseuKn9Kw3OnJRxjzqSy3jIQGAcDtNtpF70Eg_QiL3mOlEQi3-eH_NKIv8QpliF3ped-H8MSIxb8nu-HJmnDfewe8d70GBPxOqCaqWodF1tBVssDH187Gbvl/s400/Oakley's.jpg" />In addition to buying the sunglasses, I also wanted to treat myself to something else. I considered buying a new shirt, but being in between seasons, I was really unsure if I should get long sleeve or short sleeve. Decisions, decisions!!<br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>I decided to buy a new cologne. I haven't bought cologne since I was a cadet and I still use that bottle on occasion, but I felt I needed something new and something in this millenium! I decided on Dolce and Gabbana Light Blue. It really smells good and is a nice light scent. </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 250px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 250px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453831152718588418" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiekXZbmUHLCkqOrNOvxUeseEqRboRNAcjsm5D0FE78C7fD9EKMEg984OPLCPb2h1hfLwlfZOCcOJHIP-AtNlrozslx3KQZMGSFA0GMdulRMEqlzSBCn9JlTlWkbxbZIst0aTy3/s400/New+Cologne.jpg" /><br /><div>Spoiling myself has been fun! While in the mall yesterday, I was checking out MacBooks, but that will require a little bit more saving!! </div></div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-18419050733886051602009-09-20T22:05:00.003-04:002009-09-20T22:36:57.549-04:00New Camera--Trip to New York<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyfJa66ioXA5NGvLtMatIAwXmgOcJSZxrgD622MMj-5k7FhyNT2lDqSANr_hyphenhyphenO87TmsN8qV0biANinMSTCEuERTBOexFvp4RYOKHGkfuLHUkttnfsuLD0ckF-gjypZwBY2V3qu/s1600-h/NYC+09+095.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383741458220028578" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyfJa66ioXA5NGvLtMatIAwXmgOcJSZxrgD622MMj-5k7FhyNT2lDqSANr_hyphenhyphenO87TmsN8qV0biANinMSTCEuERTBOexFvp4RYOKHGkfuLHUkttnfsuLD0ckF-gjypZwBY2V3qu/s400/NYC+09+095.JPG" /></a> For the past year or so I have kicked around the notion of getting a new camera. I guess it comes from using my neighbors camera and being impressed with it. Her camera is a very high end Sony point and shoot with a nice digital zoom.<br /><br /><div><div><div><div><div>While sitting in an officers councils last week, I received a text from my sister Tracy telling me she was going to be buying a video camera for our upcoming cruise in 4 weeks and change. I replied to her that I really wish I could get a new camera. Well after saying that, I began to conspire in my mind a way to be able to get said camera.</div><br /><div>When I got home that afternoon, I jumped on the computer, and began looking at point and shoots. I found 2 that I liked, one Sony, and one Canon. The Canon didn't use a lithium ion battery pack but relied on AA batteries. I purchased the point and shoot that I was using with a battery pack to avoid changing batteries, so that was struck out. I then decided to see what a low end SLR camera would run and I was surprised to see for a legligible price increase I would be able to purchase the camera I have always wanted...a Canon EOS Rebel. </div><div> </div><div>Well, I fired a quick text message to Elaine, explaining the financing of the camera and she told me, "sure, you're crazy LOL" I got on and placed my order.</div><br /><div>The following weekend (this past weekend) was Youth Councils for our division and Elaine was going to be away for the whole weekend. I really wanted to do something special for my kids on Saturday. I didn't want to be around the TV, Computer all day, but instead I wanted to spend the whole day with them and give them a memorable day. I decided to take them to New York City for the day. We took the train from New Haven into Grand Central Terminal. We then hopped on the NYC Subway to Battery Park where we boarded a ferry to the Statue of Liberty. We spent a good couple of hours on Liberty Island and then headed uptown to 30 Rock (GE Building) to the Top of the Rock Observatory on the 67th-70th floors. We enjoyed wonderful views from 800 or so feet above midtown Manhattan. </div><br /><div>Part of my madness was to use my camera to document all of this. Please check out some of the pictures...<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383741444282037154" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijHp9hcn6TC_zUXF_gxXAdRxOMgHfWfo_ccwqeIyo-Itu3Re2rIj2yOVhEmjP2uDceqpFnwAfhIBBxFH5wFwuXXbbQ0rhjdnFfWqWkmNCyYFCkNnnUQX0V27RmP_fFQzr-Q5Oy/s400/NYC+09+089.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383741439106216786" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5t5QY_VfWc33xreGHHmV2S1pVg-8wc-BFacbD2xrDyI-DWUXIBoSDcd3ucFYkwTMCaPlUB-3ruEIa_XZssKpgggI0anPSykGkrIwjY6SrecFV-fcivFFswmpYmDgoCB9joZHy/s400/NYC+09+067.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383741431950485394" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuNPnoPJMCQC-TeWSwfxK7rQbr56n-ljKLcuSqaiTxxCOzaUOvLPnUhYrNCUbF2g4koWFgmZZpu_jRzkegywiNCNCHRK6UafSLwUNLce9s4Ug2M2G4XXlVjT2mNdr-J_uSOd9G/s400/NYC+09+043.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383741422774811634" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrrFYe7e9bGWFQAJz7QJs59HneZJxjB3wFr26V1egfJDW085rD6vABe-82Z2MvCgE5LNO3p9OTRjuo5WBiXfkMNjEjjmwb4vY6taF_O9ts0BGDyy9a1DaIEjxSPZ74vmkaiVbN/s400/NYC+09+027.JPG" /></div><div>In closing, I know it has been awhile since I have blogged, but I anticipate blogging more often in the days ahead.</div></div></div></div></div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-35714243700674521052009-04-25T20:37:00.005-04:002009-04-25T21:29:07.330-04:00Happy Birthday Dad...Hello Yankee Stadium<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Oj0ZRkCks5STDKyCHAZSPKk_3KeAqsxXzC-kIB55Te5OSd9_YEe6lCu6AdoyWA_pJhsoaOCXPuGNqm333IH5h54zswAx6vbnTX1F1X5BYoK7b9jwJCDLGrPsxz0lxJJ1fABy/s1600-h/Yankee+Stadium+Street.jpg"></a> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328800135690528274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7JR94Xc8ycdpaE9EYM3McSA2AqoXm3jr-6CWPmVTtZlGxpe0mf-t8YzvqXseOfqh65IXKwKqmlA4qj7UIjkG70TSoBG2L7ck2lXO9EkoFVEJvd4Vc5M5iXENoBxlZHC-3KDnv/s400/New+Yankee+Stadium+015.JPG" border="0" />A few months ago, my sister Tracy had the idea to take my dad to a Yankee game for his birthday. She looked at the schedule, and we determined to buy tickets to the April 17th game. That was the 2nd home game in the new stadium. Dad's birthday is on the 18th.<br /><br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div>We woke up very early on the morning of the 17th, and began the trek down I-95 and the Merritt Parkway to Yankee Stadium. I was a little worried that the parking lot I normally park in would be unavailable due to construction to the new train station for the stadium, but it was open and we were granted access through the yet to be completed station. </div><div> </div><div>Upon crossing E. 161st street, we were immediately captivated by the sight before us. The new stadium is indeed grand, and after posing for a quick picture in front of Babe Ruth Plaza, we entered the Great Hall. Soundbites of great moments of Yankee history greeted as we walked through the hall, we made a dash to see the field and all agreed that everything felt closer.</div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328800120739392930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaPnXikDJw-K6GZVunwz1IRWTbcu5A-amMgjCb5-ibcyREbmd7O99afB0CczsOa-RXmBqRHy-B_Gp1O0M41gZP5P7O1FKmyQvFDfhYp-i9-D7oSrzsvAeTfsaqNIg4j0XmSV5Y/s400/Yankee+Stadium+Street.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328805121202546962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9h36KP8z_7YDrS3VuNPtU8TwJMedrauRl8oBsxOsapIgnlKXl_7thk6AkbrXyZk7ScWsKqFHFepocyQTExp915vMjBuThdzQJW0oQY4quYJRCFRv7jp_i6i3yCqOD9bxSACK1/s400/Great+Hall.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div>We then walked through the great hall and around the entire stadium. I checked out my season seats in section 237, and then we grabbed a few Nathan's Hot Dogs. As we leaned against a window screen which looked out on the street below, I immediately began to feel as though this new stadium was a ballpark. It wasn't as isolated as the former stadium. There was traffic around it on all sides. </div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328800126133137938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8tArJBPrgw683TjE8rqtG2NXzDX8bb2VPeA4uALzSUVRc0PzsEOGFVBrcD4IrQBZKAGIbzNps-6uzXBuTXDE3TG9ZmMQCL7_0H5leKY40UnEcxM7fd89E9lCvm9l8XipiRs97/s400/New+Yankee+Stadium+004.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328800128936572578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJuNsKZRxKsmertRscqI8sj4WCG9CaSPm4cYEtZhevL5SN-u9FN5oJ1LO2nMcro_caz6U6a9S0yGFaoZzuxhKfPG15zYvyGqvn2Ges_kUy32NUTJLoaQDteA2ZB7hp6Tt6g3ws/s400/New+Yankee+Stadium+009.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>We took our seats and relaxed until the game started. Joba Chamberlain wasn't too sharp, but the Yankees kept him close. We witnessed homeruns by Johnny Damon, Mark Teixeira, Melky Cabrera, Robinson Cano, and then the game winning home run by the Captain Derek Jeter. Mo (Mariano Rivera) came in and got the save. We sang "Enter Sandman" enthusiastically as he entered the game.</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328800130426252114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEh311GnXaCPaQpw39-Lfyld9AD7BIK-ZauN8cWIgN6HnLga6qWCe6N5KMamGt-uFN7JjPYtTALaZY7Semx6rZ1r0y11Sp6-bvnbFCHBdXZvHv9O0W4n3HPLw3uAav2530BrWS/s400/New+Yankee+Stadium+012.JPG" border="0" />One of the funniest things was dads birthda greetings. Mom paid $10 for dad's birthday to be displayed on the screen. He left for the bathroom in the top of the sixth and wasn't back when his name was displayed. That is so typical with dad! Tracy and I were saying, everything was scripted that day even the snafu with dad missing his greeting.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328802521553541266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgxIab3wS6tMoubFmBtyQbzhNi2K988FGCylP-EnJbFVjGjlIQZKKlueYJV4J1W9a1tbWaMIEcbT-vFCZ_3lA1fX4xt_qW-RMtg9IZcTNF-k2Eh6wTb0vBia6fZeIDy59mF18K/s400/New+Yankee+Stadium+028.JPG" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328802513760161138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-auVP6T6jyD9TPI7N7-PDTdGmEyYVOI0QAWe4CCbqCTMpYXvJVeTW1bwRy1mLeUNY02XlfgxpsiIvMuJr1tWOxVo4TZHPwTaSW07fuY8dPAO9q3HOe6DzLFS6YZX1mWJ9kV3/s400/New+Yankee+Stadium+031.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>We were there for the first win in Yankee Stadium. It is something we will be able to share with generations to come. </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-61330018345556718652009-03-28T09:10:00.003-04:002009-03-28T09:19:03.067-04:00My 2nd Home...Section 237Yesterday, I received the telephone call I have been waiting all winter for. I received a call from the New York Yankees regarding my relocation and season ticket plan for the new stadium. I have been on pins and needles all winter, thinking that I might be squeezed out of the new stadium based on my relatively low (2 year) seniority and the fact that I also get the smallest ticket package.<br /><div></div><br /><div>I was given a few seating options including the terrace level and main level, but I am a bleacher guy. So for slightly more than a price of a movie, I can go see the New York Yankees in their brand new home, and see Mariano Rivera close out a game, Mark Teixeira hit a homer to score a few runs, and see Derek Jeter inside out a clutch hit. </div><br /><div></div><div>My new home is Section 237. It is a significant change from last year where I was in the right field bleachers with the world renowned "Bleacher Creatures," but I am nonetheless thrilled to be in the new stadium. As a result, I now have a home in the new stadium for as long as I see fit and as long as I can afford. Here is a computer generated image with Section 237 circled in red. </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318227355846220258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2eel-I1Xxd7H9k4W0vIPruySo5w0Ug3aoFUZMzfV3rasWcXWFsjqUWzbSy011cAn_oEuIYnAFixE2JqbjehjNT6W-9RfLhVNpU2eZ8IPTerWEBzM9dh5K39t-jMAZex1ri7UO/s400/new+stadium.jpg" border="0" />The seats look convenient to monument park, and the Center Field Food Court. When I go to my first game this season on April 17th, we are purposely getting there very early so that we can wander around a bit and check out the new digs.<br /><br /><div></div><div>So there you have it. I am a very happy Yankee fan and have been on Cloud 9 since yesterday around 1:00 PM.</div><br /><div></div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-49427228434947155512009-02-23T17:20:00.002-05:002009-02-23T17:25:21.474-05:00Shameless Plug--Fantasy BaseballHey readers! I am just wanting to post something really fast as I wait for my Baked Stuffed Shells to finish. Yummmm<br /><br />I have a Fantasy Baseball League with Yahoo Sports. Right now, we have 6 teams and I have solid committments from a few more. The larger the league, the more fun it will be. We are having a live draft in a few weeks. Everyone registered so far is pretty excited about it. It is a head to head league where you will be competing with another team each week. The stats for your players will go toward points in key categories. For each category you beat your opponent, you get one point. At the end of the week, the results are added to the standings.<br /><br />If anyone is interested, let me know and I will get you an invite.Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-73094076569556021252009-02-17T20:57:00.005-05:002009-02-17T21:20:01.247-05:00My New Toy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_A0Yeux_RpPkZlIeodjr4dRyeBeVkYh-2Y2Yu9j9z_xDiBLRnK9IjM2YHOjoyYpmQ-2QYctAJpL-NRBa4M_SctlZxCILG7PaCI8tjs-k2It8MKxj95QT5b2E79s6QRLNb_a5/s1600-h/bb_storm.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303951684195458002" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 125px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 190px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_A0Yeux_RpPkZlIeodjr4dRyeBeVkYh-2Y2Yu9j9z_xDiBLRnK9IjM2YHOjoyYpmQ-2QYctAJpL-NRBa4M_SctlZxCILG7PaCI8tjs-k2It8MKxj95QT5b2E79s6QRLNb_a5/s400/bb_storm.png" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Today was a nice day for me. It was upgrade day! I have owned several cell phones. If I stop and think about it, I can probably count how many I have had. Ok, I just did that...I have had 7, and today I got my my eighth.</div><div></div><div>I have never got a "good" phone. I have always settled for a cheap one, or whatever phone was having a promotion. My last phone was the LG Chocolate. Functionally, it was a great phone...at least for me. Elaine had three of them and had all sorts of problems, but mine never gave me problems. I just did not like the overall feel, and the sensitivity of the various buttons. </div><div></div><div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>When Elaine's last Chocolate died in November, she upgraded to a new phone, an LG EnV2. It is a very nice phone and she absolutely loves it. While browsing the store while she was getting set up, I noticed that BlackBerry's had come down considerably in price. I said to her, I am going to get a BB when I am eligible for a new phone. The Pearl, was the entry level model and was able to be had for virtually nothing. After talking to people, they all said, "forget the Pearl, get a curve" (the midlevel model). </div><div></div><div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>So, up until recently, I had my heart set on the BlackBerry Curve, that is until, I played with my neighbor's iPhone last week. I absoulutely loved the touchscreen. I then decided that on 2/17, when I was eligible, I would be getting the brand new BlackBerry Storm.</div><div></div><div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>I walked into the Verizon Wireless store today like a kid in a toy store. When the sales person asked if she could help me I said, "yes, its upgrade day, and I am here for a banging new phone." When she asked if I had any ideas, I replied eagerly, "I want the Storm!"</div><div></div><div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>After programming it and activitating it to the BlackBerry Service, I was ready to go with my new smartphone. I spent most of the day figuring it out, the various capabilities, plugging in my calendar information, and of course, buying new ringtones. </div><div></div><div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>I must say, I am thrilled to finally get the phone I wanted. So many times, I said, "no, i don't need or want it." This time however, I am looking forward to being connected, not to work, but to friends, to fantasy sports, to news. We live in a connected society, and I have officially joined on. It seems every hour or so, I discover a new feature on the BlackBerry. Just an hour ago, I downloaded the Yankees mobile application. It is pretty cool.</div><div></div><div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>I think I see now why the President was adamant not to give his up.</div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-53842797276479623702009-01-28T20:28:00.004-05:002009-01-28T20:38:30.643-05:00President Obama Calls out School CancellationsI read this off the NY Daily News Website and got a kick out of it.<br /><br /><div align="left">At a Roosevelt Room meeting today with business leaders to press his economic stimulus plan, Obama couldn't resist verging off script to suggest that "some flinty <a title="Chicago" href="http://www.nydailynews.com/topics/Chicago">Chicago</a> toughness" might be in order to deal with the Capital's first icestorm of the winter.<br />"My children's school was canceled today, because of what? Some ice," Obama said, as the room erupted in laughter.<br />"As my children pointed out, in Chicago, school is never canceled," he continued in amazement. "In fact, my 7-year-old pointed out that you'd go outside for recess in weather like this. You wouldn't even stay indoors."<br />Asked if he were calling Washingtonians weather wusses, Obama gleefully responded: "I'm saying that when it comes to the weather, folks in Washington don't seem to be able to handle things." </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Today most if not all schools in Connecticut were closed and for what? We had a couple of inches of snow, followed by 15 minutes of sleet then rain for the remainder of the day. My driveway is down to the wet pavement already and the snow is melting off the roof of the van in my driveway. My kids didn't have school today due to a teacher's professional day, but I expect today would have been a snow day for them as well.</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">I can relate to what the President is saying. More often then not, snowdays are a joke! My sister went to high school in Erie, PA. I think she had one snowday in 4 years! She went to school with serious lake effect snow! Frankly, I wouldn't be surprised if my kids have a delay tomorrow because the rain will freeze and their may be black ice in spots, but the roads will be more than passable! Our school buses here even have the automatic tire chains, but for what!?!?!? They never drive in the snow!</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">I just think there is some serious over reacting when it comes to this, and I am glad our President thinks so too!</div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-73603987752845556242009-01-25T18:06:00.002-05:002009-01-25T18:24:02.215-05:00Changes...This past month, there have been some minor changes in my life. No we are not and have not moved, but some things have changed. Some minor and others not so minor. Let's take a look shall we.<br /><br /><strong>Closer to 40!</strong><br />On January 1st, I became 35 years old and upon marking that milestone in my life, I no longer was closer to 30, but now am rapidly approaching 40. I have always felt that the 30s were a great decade of life, and despite my receding hairline, feel good about myself.<br /><br /><strong>Get Fit Chris!</strong><br />I have finally made it a point to start at the gym and get myself in shape. A lot of this has to do with the previous point in approaching a time in my life where health issues begin to crop up occasionally. I am very healthy, but want to be even more healthy. I want to do this to insure that my heart keeps ticking and my lungs stay healthy as well. I currently go to the gym 2 mornings a week, and am trying to fit in a 3rd time. <br /><br /><strong>DirecTV</strong><br />For years, I have relied solely on cable TV. For the most part it has served its purpose well. I remember living in Harrisburg, PA and getting cable TV for the first time. Grandpa and Dad were so excited that they could get WPIX Channel 11 out of NY. For those of you that knew my Grandpa and know my dad, you can probably figure out why they were excited. Yes, they were able to watch the Yankees! Ever since that day, I have had cable tv. Over the years the options increased, but while researching our cable options here in Norwich, I determined that satellite TV was a more cost effective solution. As long as I could get YES (Yankees Entertainment and Sports Network) for free I was sold! We are saving money and have a lot more channels to chose from. I have been impressed with the selection and service since getting the service a week or so ago. We now have over 200 channels, plus HBO, Starz, Showtime and The Movie Channel. There is always something to watch. I love it!<br /><br /><strong>President Barack H. Obama</strong><br />On January 20th around 12:06 PM, President Obama took the oath of office for President of the United States. I watched this live and was moved by what took place. As the President said, 60 years ago, his father would not have been served at a restaurant in DC, and now he was taking that sacred oath. Watching the peaceful and smooth transition of power made me proud to be an American. I believe that the President will truly be a transformational figure and begin to restore the republic to where it should be. He seems like a man of integrity and a sincere man. I see great things happening under his watch and will support him in prayer regularly. I am proud to say that he received my vote on Election Day.Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-55713468873812248182009-01-05T16:21:00.004-05:002009-01-05T16:38:40.106-05:00Valkyrie<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHQ_QTQZ3gJ7NzuS1WOca-EG_uggOqOQosJqB2l6AEZUNwt4BmXaMuDhKpp0sDLIjC2y56IjyvopeQil99kV6pUeUwrafB7iAxz48-APVwuonzFLp0VSzXfFlughu9oI9ruode/s1600-h/valkyrie.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287923463046980258" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 256px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHQ_QTQZ3gJ7NzuS1WOca-EG_uggOqOQosJqB2l6AEZUNwt4BmXaMuDhKpp0sDLIjC2y56IjyvopeQil99kV6pUeUwrafB7iAxz48-APVwuonzFLp0VSzXfFlughu9oI9ruode/s400/valkyrie.jpg" border="0" /></a> For the past few weeks, a couple of the boys from the corps have been asking me to go to the movies with them. Initially, I wanted to see Quantum of Solace, but I waited to long and alas it is no longer in our local cineplex. <div></div><div> </div><div>As I looked at the listings the last few days, I decided that Valkyrie was the movie that appealed to me the most. I told the boys and we agreed to go Sunday afternoon after our church activities. </div><div></div><div> </div><div>Ever since Tom Cruise has acted a little strangely, I haven't been one of his fans. I thought he was great in such movies as Risky Business, Top Gun and was stellar in A Few Good Men. </div><div> </div><div>In Valkyrie I think Cruise did a lot to redeem himself in the eyes of us "common folk."</div><div></div><div> </div><div>Valkyrie starts in North Africa, where the main character Colonel Staffenberg is the Executive Officer of the German 10th Panzer Armored Division. After the truck he was in is straffed by British fighters, the Colonel is seriously wounded and the movie fast forwards to him recovering in a hospital somewhere in German occupied Europe.</div><div></div><div> </div><div>Staffenberg is clearly disappointed in the direction Hitler is taking his beloved country and wants to do something about it. He stages a coup d'tat that begins by changing some executive orders regarding the German reserve Army. </div><div></div><div> </div><div>However the bottom line of any coup, is the death of Hitler, which Staffenberg plans and executes...no pun intended. </div><div></div><div> </div><div>Knowing history, I knew that any such attempt on Hitler did not work as he committed suicide at the close of WWII when the Allies surrounded Berlin. I therefore knew that the film did not end in a positive way for Staffenberg and his co-horts.</div><div></div><div> </div><div>The movie moved slow toward the beginning, but was a very enjoyable movie. I enjoy WWII history so I was right at home seeing the story told from a German point of view...albeit a revolutionary point of view.</div><div></div><div> </div><div>I would recommend this movie. It was enjoyable and Cruise did a fine job in the lead role. He was passionate. However do not look for him to have a German accent. I think the director attempted to make a transition from German to English like what happened at the opening to the 1990 movie Hunt for Red October.</div><div></div><div> </div><div>Welcome Back Cruise!</div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-39292290488819981852009-01-03T16:42:00.004-05:002009-01-03T16:56:35.764-05:00A Night out at the MGM Grand--KC and the Sunshine BandNo I didn't go to Vegas...<br /><br />In the last several months, one of the large casinos nearby has expanded and included the notorious MGM Grand brand. So now Foxwoods Resort and Casino can maintain its notoriety as the largest casino in the world. However, I am digressing.<br /><br />Foxwoods was a large sponsor for the recent Extreme Makeover Home Edition that recently was filmed in our area. In addition to supplying food for the tent and canteen, they provided logistical support with equipment, parking, shuttle service, and hosted the wrap party the evening the night was revealed to the family. At the wrap party, Foxwoods provided complimentary tickets to all Extreme Makeover volunteers to one of three shows. The three shows we had to choose from were, Bozz Skaggs, comedian Jay Mohr, or KC and the Sunshine Band. Our first choice was the comedian, but all of the comp tickets were gone when we got to the staff who were passing them out, so we decided upon KC and the Sunshine Band. This was an odd choice considering that they were popular when I was a toddler. I went to the concert with an open mind and knew I would enjoy it either way.<br /><br />There were 8 of us together, Elaine and I, our neighbors, two officer friends, and two of their friends. We hit the Festival Buffet in the casino prior to the show then found our way to the MGM Grand theater. As we arrived, KC had alrerady started his act. Immediately I could sense the high energy eminating from the stage and sound system. I soon found out that I knew pretty much all of KC's songs. Despite being 58 years old the guy could still sing, and could still dance quite well. I was particularly impressed with the "sunshine band." There was a live horn section and two drummers. These guys could really play! KC's style is a mix of dance and latin music. The night was filled with high energy and long sets. We were on our feet clapping and moving to the beat pretty much all night long. <br /><br />The hour and 40 minute concert was incredibly enjoyable and as we walked out of the theater we all remarked to each other how hot we were due to moving around. It was a really fun night. I would pay to see that show next time KC comes to town.Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-50612791119299552192008-12-27T08:39:00.003-05:002008-12-27T08:56:11.067-05:00Christmas goes to the Dogs...literallyOur dog Jasmine has become a very large part of our family. We often try to take her on vacations with us as things allow. Immediate family usually has no problems with this, so she almost always accompanies us to both our parents homes when we vacation. Jasmine is a great traveler and will always find a comfy sport in whatever house we are in to lay down and take a nap.<br /><div><div> </div><div>When I was loading the car on Wednesday afternoon, Jasmine kept following me each and every trip to the car, watching me intently. I think she was afraid for some reason she wasn't going. When it was time to leave, I put her leash on her. After making a quick sweep of the house, I said to Elaine, "where's Jazz?" I called her and she was nowhere to be found. I opened the door and she was on the back porch just standing there waiting for me to open the car for her to grab her seat. </div><br /><div>After a quick stop at the local chinese takeout for some crab rangoon and boneless ribs. (Elaine was craving and no she isn't pregnant). Elaine quickly told her Jasmine to take a seat because she didn't want Jazz to be begging her, and Jazz was prepared to do just that by standing up on the console between our seats. I do think Jazz might have got a rib or two though.</div><br /><div>When we arrived at Mom and Dad's, Jasmine quickly said her hellos and found Taylor. Together, they hung around with each other. Taylor and Jasmine get along great! They really do like each other.</div><br /><div>On Christmas morning both Jasmine and Taylor were excited. Taylor really likes Christmas as she knows she gets a present or two. Taylor began walking around, sniffing all of the gifts until she found hers and Jasmine's. Much to my childrens dismay, the dogs got to open the first gifts on Christmas Day. They each received a box of biscuits. Here are pictures of them looking around. I believe in Taylor's picture, she is barking at mom to give her the present. Jasmine's head had just turned as the picture was captured on hers but she is right in front of where her gift was as well.</div><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284467190850849682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit8ZScJLkwIFLUzAczGky2208KGUpThFWWiPNPkdHYuFzZ7aEKv6dm9JTjSTPvJLlRDqel95F_LZeMEdySCEstI8r0n6AzghswVnbk6yOcjdiot3mQTp0G6BUmOk-IVeZJA_Q7/s400/Christmas+2008+003.JPG" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284467196471303554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrMhdzf_VRV0v-jWv7OzEjy4NRUITFADwKZaaYNAyLlAWm5eNjeWwRY2SZB42iqDvn56gwhcrnyZeRXZr99f-1FzncVNV7dik-oPnpx1Tlunv3ID4mHD7_CxWtyBCfj7LYICwC/s400/Christmas+2008+004.JPG" border="0" /> <div>As I type this, Jasmine is laying next to me fast asleep. At least until she hears Taylor wake up and come downstairs! </div></div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-14398785889993963192008-12-25T16:34:00.004-05:002008-12-25T16:57:19.687-05:00Interesting ChristmasWell first of all let me say that I am glad Christmas is finally here! From November 13th through December 24th, I drove 6,264 miles in my Chevrolet Express Van. That doesn't include the occasional trips in the Sienna to pick up kettle when the van was being used. Our Christmas programs in Norwich are very tiring and I am really glad we have another season behind us. <div><br /></div><div>A couple of notable things happened in the last month...</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Extreme Makeover Home Edition Comes to Eastern Connecticut</span></div><div>The popular TV show came to Eastern Connecticut and The Salvation Army was asked to support the volunteers by having a 24 hr presence for the 6 days the home was being built. I managed to put in an all night shift and a few other 6 hour shifts. It was fun to be a part of this and meet some of the stars of the show. We also enjoyed a fun after party at Foxwoods. I even got to meet and have my picture taken with Miss Connecticut!</div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283849131009977026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVZgGel6Cmj_XEK4sfM66Ofw94E2Dh9V9myqcsMO5wy6YS-Hp8p1vb1TiyCuVNAcPwIfZO0COvDM1LWzMaa-VHwVv9-Fee1zU1TGsYWrWEXEa51Ic-c5m2BUSm67RYMPlZl43b/s400/Extreme+Makeover+Home+Edition+2008+003.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283849138192531474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 271px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI62ivTPVz88VIxdPOsC_P2A5no8d-AylxZzzL9qiXvefzJ1ZTIrwHKibKqu6yNToMx5m4BWg9C1qB-erPxPszHeAXQUnNwcx5iLeQKcZFKoUU9hdGD3flakwJVFYEWL6Fc03h/s400/DSC04237.jpg" border="0" /><br /></div><div><strong>Mom and Dad come to Visit</strong></div><div>Mom, Dad and Tracy came to visit the weekend before Christmas. They had tickets to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular in New York and offered to do our meetings that same weekend. It was great to have them visit us and help us in so many ways! Dad helped take out kettles when my other drivers were snowed in and mom cleaned the house and got us caught up on laundry. They also took the kids back to Maine with them a few days before Christmas to give the kids a slight vacation and give us a break while wrapping up our Christmas distribution and kettles. </div><div><br /></div><div>Fast forward to Christmas Eve...The kettles come in, the car is loaded and Elaine and I make the drive to Portland, Maine to join our family for Christmas. It was a smooth albeit, rainy trip, but I rarely had to cancel my cruise set speed of 75 mph. We made it in 2 hours and 50 minutes and enjoyed the traditional Cheese Fondue when we arrived. </div><div><br /></div><div>Today was a great Christmas for us! The kids have wanted a Wii for a while now and we were able to get one this year. In addition to a few great games, we also got RockBand for it and have already played it together as a family, I on Guitar, Jay and Sam alternate on drums, Elaine typically on vocals. Its a great game and I look forward to advancing from EASY level and unlocking more songs.</div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283849119488162642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVh0ONjy8jMTWvI-xApC8BRpR7w0z3ykb26cBkPc6mwI-zL_zlO_ryn0yloQhlfYWHgGZ6mKTheWUZX2pASI4cRKIHEctlntGG3HivHRSZ1aBMHn_G4BlJH6V1gu3lkQ9uu35W/s400/Christmas+2008+001.JPG" border="0" /><br /></div><div>However, perhaps the biggest surprise was a gift that Tracy got me. Ever since I was a child I have wanted the ship Millenium Falcon from the Star Wars movies. As a child, I never received it, and it became a running joke in our family. Well this year, Tracy got me the Falcon, or should I say she got it for Jay and me. </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283849124184932658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5LRZAW7t0MpGZKj_b6eqgnQEhvvzF1DsrvOiEXOv6QOY_v_RI8HAfYpdX6LyqgYXs1GZFWQkn74RLOL_QE2mlwXZdea99Q2Yun40b1g2OQtbOaf1PIG1Z_d7N-tiBBbqHboRf/s400/Christmas+2008+005.JPG" border="0" /><br /></div><div>As I write this, we are relaxing and enjoying the day. The Wii has been set up, and as I type this, I am syncing the first of two iPods for the kids. Our Prime Rib dinner should be ready in an hour or so.</div><div><br /></div><div>Merry Christmas!</div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-76748942689365850502008-12-13T18:27:00.003-05:002008-12-13T22:45:31.992-05:00Christmas QuestionsI got this off my cousin Jonathan's blog. Given the busyness of the year, I guess its okay to copy others ideas.<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 22px; font-family:Times;font-size:14px;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">1. Wrapping paper or gift bags?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br />Wrapping paper. I never use gift bags for Christmas</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">2. Real tree or artificial?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">Always artificial<br /><br />3. When do you put up the tree?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">Usually the days after Thanksgiving.<br /><br />4. When do you take the tree down?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">January 1st (my birthday) at the latest.<br /><br />5. Do you like eggnog?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">Not really<br /><br />6. Favorite gift received as a child?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">I honestly can't remember, but I do recall a couple of very cool Tonka trucks, a 4x4 and a van.<br /><br />7. Hardest person to buy for?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">Either my mom or grandparents.<br /><br />8. Easiest person to buy for?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">Elaine she is very specific.<br /><br />9. Do you have a nativity scene?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">A little one over our fireplace.<br /><br />10. Mail or email Christmas cards?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">Mail<br /><br />11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">A broken VHS tape from an unamed person. The movie was good, European Vacation.<br /><br />12. Favorite Christmas movie?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "> National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation<br /><br />13. When do you start shopping for Christmas?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">October or November for the kids.<br /><br />14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br />No.</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /><br />15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">Prime Rib<br /><br />16. Lights on the tree.</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br />Yes.</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /><br />17. Favorite Christmas song?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">O Holy Night, and Christmas Eve Sarajevo by Trans Siberian Orchestra<br /><br />18. Travel at Christmas or stay home.</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">Now that parents are close we travel.<br /><br />19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br />Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen...but do you recall the most famous reindeer of all? Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer!</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /><br />20. An angel or a star on top of the tree?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">Currently a star<br /><br />21. Open the presents on Christmas eve or Christmas morning?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br />Christmas morning.</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /><br />22. Most annoying thing about this time of year?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">Grumpy people, bad drivers, but hey I live in Connecticut so that is all year!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 22px; font-family:Times;font-size:14px;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br />23. Favorite ornament theme or color?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">Homemade<br /><br />24. Favorite dessert for Christmas dinner?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">Surprisingly enough I am not a huge dessert guy<br /><br />25. What do you want for Christmas this year?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); ">Rockband for our new Wii, also a Christmas Gift<br /><br />26. Any special Christmas traditions?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51); "><br /></span></span>Fondue and hor d'erves on Christmas Eve, Reading Luke Chapter 2 KJV prior to opening gifts.</div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-45484459315954640212008-11-12T21:34:00.002-05:002008-11-12T21:56:25.671-05:00Ford to GMMany of you know me as a car guy. I am told ever since I was very young that I have had a fascination with cars. I do recall always being into cars and I always like tv shows featuring cars ever since I was a kid. These include, Dukes of Hazzard, Knight Rider, etc. <br /><br />Over the years I have had my favorite cars and have favored certain models and makes. Since the 80s in regards to full size vans (vehicles that I have always been guaranteed to have in my driveway since childhood), I have favored the Ford models, but in the last few years Ford has put a very sour taste in my mouth and I will not purchase one at least for the foreseable future. I will share a few reasons why.<br /><br />When I was commissioned in 1998 and sent with my wife to Sanford, Maine, we were pleased to hear that we had a brand new 1998 Ford van. It was a nice color and was as loaded as possible for the model year it was. It was a great van and I only had to put a heater core and rear heat lines in the 3 and a half years, and 114,000 miles that I owned it. It was the best van I have ever owned. I traded it in in Feburary of 2002 for a van that I essentially had custom ordered to my specifications, right down to the color. My 2002 van was a nice looking van, again, it was as loaded as was allowed for the model year, but right away I noticed very subtle things about it. It seemed louder on the road in regards to wind noise, and my arm would get cold as I rested in on the drivers door. Despite being a mid level XLT with the nicer door trim, seat trim etc, it seemed Ford scimped on the sound insulation. Later on I realized that whenever the van was drivien in a rainstorm on the highway, the turn signals would not work for 2 days. Apparantly there was a short and this was a problem until I left in June 2005. The dealer tried to reproduce the issue but had no luck doing so. <br /><br />The van also would have a knock in the engine. I asked the dealer about it and told them about it. They told me there was no knock. I sort of argued that there was and that I was not new to this engine. My 1998 had the same engine and did not make the racket that the 2002 made even with the high mileage on it. They insisted it must be something I was doing, despite using Exxon Mobil gas at the recommended octane rating! Sometimes, I think they despised me at that dealership! I said to the service tech once, "well maybe Ford dropped a Lincoln Navigator engine in this and I should have been putting 93 octane in this." They looked at me like I was from Mars. Its sometimes sad when you know more about the car then the so called experts!<br /><br />The van didn't have serious issues, but stupid unresolved issues and that bothered me almost as much as the major issues. I believe this van is still being used by the Sanford corps with nearly 150,000 miles. I finally swore off Ford when I observed my dads 1 week old Ford van last summer before they moved from Erie. While parked in my grandparents driveway, I noticed that the bumper was installed crooked. I pointed it out to dad to verify that I wasn't seeing things and he noticed it too. The gap between the bumper and the body was signficantly wider on one end than the other! I said to dad, "if they can't put a bumper on straight, what else is wrong with it!" Ironically two days after seeing that bumper gap, I had to go shopping for a new van as my transmission failed on the way to the congress that previous weekend. Let's just say I steered clear of the Ford dealer!<br /><br />I do believe that now Chevrolet vans are superior to the Ford vans. They are far more comfortable to drive. The driving position is more relaxed and less confined. The engine has signficantly more power and torque, and is quieter as well. I believe the styling is more refined as well. The seats are mounted into the floor instead of on brackets. This allows for easy loading when needed with no floor obstructions. The GM vans ride better as well! <br /><br />My Chevrolet van has 28,000 miles on it and I don't think I have put $500 into it in maintenance since purchasing it in June 2007. The GM service people are informed and know their product well. <br /><br />Over the next 6 weeks, I will be spending a lot of time in my Chevrolet Express 3500 as I drive all over eastern Connecticut. Its a good van and I am now a huge fan of GM products. Lets hope they can survive the next year!Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-43385390460063237412008-11-11T16:29:00.002-05:002008-11-11T16:48:10.054-05:00Challenge...What You Have DoneReading Uncle Dave's Blog, I decided to do my own challenge using the template he has and altering it as needed. My "yes" answers are in bold. <br /><br />1. <strong>Started your own blog</strong><br />2. <strong>Slept under the stars</strong><br />3. <strong>Played in a band</strong><br />4. Visited Hawaii<br />5. <strong>Watched a meteor shower / Watched the Northern Lights</strong><br />6. Given more than you can afford to charity<br />7. Been to Disneyland never to CA, <strong>but DisneyWorld 6 times</strong><br />8. <strong>Climbed a mountain</strong><br />9. <strong>Held a praying mantis</strong><br />10. <strong>Sang a solo</strong><br />11. Bungee jumped / White Water rafting with at least one level IV rapid<br />12. Visited Paris<br />13. <strong>Watched a lightning storm at sea..everynight night for 7 nights on our last cruise</strong><br />14. Taught yourself an art from scratch<br />15. Adopted a child<br />16. <strong>Had food poisoning</strong><br />17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty / Been to the top of all four classic tall structures in North America (CN Tower in Toronto, the Sears Tower in Chicago, World Trade Towers in NY City, Empire State Building in NY City)<br />18. Grown your own vegetables<br />19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France<br />20. Slept on an overnight train / Slept overnight in an airport<br />21. <strong>Had a pillow fight</strong><br />22. Hitch hiked<br />23. <strong>Taken a sick day when youʼre not ill</strong><br />24. <strong>Built a snow fort</strong><br />25. <strong>Held a lamb</strong><br />26. <strong>Gone skinny dipping</strong><br />27. Run a Marathon<br />28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice<br />29. <strong>Seen a total eclipse (solar and lunar)</strong><br />30. <strong>Watched a sunrise or sunset</strong> (both)<br />31. <strong>Hit a home run</strong><br />32. <strong>Been on an overnight cruise</strong><br />33. <strong>Seen Niagara Falls in person</strong><br />34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors<br />35. <strong>Seen an Amish community</strong><br />36. Taught yourself a new language<br />37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied<br />38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person<br />39. Gone rock climbing<br />40. Seen Michelangeloʼs David<br />41. <strong>Sung karaoke</strong><br />42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt / Seen the wheat fields of the Prairies<br />43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant<br />44. Visited Africa<br />45. <strong>Walked on a beach by moonlight</strong><br />46. Been transported in an ambulance<br /><strong>47. Had your portrait painted--a long time ago..my mom has it somewhere</strong><br />48. <strong>Gone deep sea fishing</strong><br />49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person<br />50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris<br />51. Gone scuba diving or <strong>snorkeling</strong><br />52. <strong>Kissed in the rain</strong><br />53. <strong>Played in the mud (used to own an ATV)</strong><br />54. <strong>Gone to a drive-in theater</strong><br />55. Been in a movie / <strong>Been on television / Been on the radio</strong><br />56. Visited the Great Wall of China<br />57. Started a business<br />58. Taken a martial arts class<br />59. Visited Russia<br />60.<strong> Served at a soup kitchen</strong><br />61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies/ Sold Boy Scout Apples<br />62. <strong>Gone whale watching</strong><br />63. Got flowers for no reason<br />64. <strong>Donated blood, platelets or plasma</strong><br />65. Gone sky diving<br />66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp<br />67. <strong>Bounced a check..stupid bank had a 5 day hold on a check I deposited!</strong><br />68. Flown in a helicopter / Flown in a plane that took off and/or landed on water<br />69. Saved a favorite childhood toy<br />70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial / Toured Parliament Hill / Toured Capitol Hill<br />71. Eaten Caviar<br />72. Pieced a quilt / Changed our car’s oil<br />73. <strong>Stood in Times Square</strong> / Visited Old Quebec City<br />74. Toured the Everglades / Gone Shopping at West Edmonton Mall / Gone Shopping at the Mall of America in Minneapolis<br />75. Been fired from a job<br />76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London / Watched the Rose Parade in person.<br />77. Broken a bone<br />78. <strong>Been on a speeding motorcycle</strong><br />79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person<br />80. Published a book / <strong>Recorded are record or CD I am on a Pendel Brass CD</strong><br />81. Visited the Vatican<br />82.<strong> Bought a New Car...not for me, but business yes</strong><br />83. Walked in Jerusalem<br />84. <strong>Had your picture in the newspaper</strong><br />85. Read the entire Bible<br />86. Visited the White House / Visited inside the White House (attended a reception) / Visited Ann of Green Gables<br />87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating / Eaten Moose or Deer / Eaten Squid / Eaten Allegator<br />88. <strong>Had chickenpox</strong><br />89. Saved someoneʼs life<br />90. Sat on a jury<br />91. <strong>Met someone famous (I met former President George Bush at our Annual Dinner)</strong><br />92. Joined a book club<br />93. <strong>Lost a loved one</strong><br />94. Had a baby<br />95. Seen the Alamo in person<br />96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake / Swam in all five Great Lakes<br />97. Been involved in a law suit<br />98. <strong>Owned a cell phone</strong><br />99. <strong>Been stung by a bee</strong><br />100.Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-83062646176759109862008-11-04T18:35:00.002-05:002008-11-04T18:56:37.918-05:00Red to Blue...Over the past few years, I have felt some subtle changing in my overall political thought process. I don't know what has spurned this on, but I have been more open to thinking more moderately and less along my traditional party line that has been established since the late 80s and eary 90s. <br /><br />Two years ago, I supported Senator Joe Liebermann (I) for US Senate here in Connecticut. At the time, I thought I was beginning to shift my thinking. Senator Liebermann lost the Democratic primary and decided to run as an independent. He defeated both the democratic nominee and the republican nominee and despite his war record and his support of Senator John McCain's Presidential campaign, still caucuses with democrats. This was the beginning of my change in ideology.<br /><br />While on vacation this year, I decided that I needed a good book to read and read Barack Obama's Audacity of Hope. In reading this book, it became clear that this man has what it takes to be our leader, and our advocate. I was encouraged and uplifted as I read the pages on the sands of Rehoboth. I was not completely convinced, but I thought, "gee, I might vote for this guy."<br /><br />For the past 2 months, I have been going back and forth as to who would earn my vote for President. Last evening I decided on Senator Barack Obama. I believe as Secretary Powell has said that Senator Obama is "transformational figure." I believe that he is the man that we need as leader in these uncertain times both on the domestic and foreign sides. My fear would be a McCain Presidency would be a continuation of the Bush mess, and this is from a man who voted for Bush twice! It was very evident that the "maverick" McCain was lost to the Republican establishment.<br /><br />While I don't agree with Senator Obama on every issue, I do believe that he can provide the healing and despite the challenges will put his best foot forward in making America a better place. <br /><br />So today, I was proud to fill that circle in for Senator Barack Obama for President and Senator Joe Biden for Vice President. Incidentally, I also voted democrat for my congressman as he has done a fine job securing appropriations for additional submarine production which is a crucial aspect to our local economy. <br /><br />I guess the title fits...this registered Republican has shifted to blue.Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-76413413322756039182008-10-13T16:29:00.004-04:002008-10-13T16:43:43.060-04:00Fall Fun<div style="text-align: left;">It's been a while since I have posted, but my mom has requested that I post some pictures of the kids pumpkins that Tracy bought for them this weekend. Before I share those, I will talk about the nice weekend we had with Tracy.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>This weekend Tracy was to be home alone. She decided a week or so ago that she would come down and visit us for the weekend instead of being alone. </div><div><br /></div><div>On Saturday, she said she would buy the kids pumpkins so we went to an area farm, took a hayride, picked some apples, then picked some rather large pumpkins. I will share more about them after I post the pictures.</div><div><br /></div><div>It was a fun day and we had a good time with each other over the weekend. Last evening, we had a bonfire and smores with our awesome neighbors and then after that Tracy and I went over to the MGM Grand, Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun to people watch and check out the recent expansions. I forgot to tell her that Mohegan Sun just opened a Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville, so she spent some time checking out the t shirts and other things in the gift shop. I will have to venture back there as the menu and theming of the place looked awesome! We settled for some Ben & Jerry's...it was 11PM after all, and then found our way home. </div><div><br /></div><div>Today we were just lazy and had a good time just hanging out until she headed home to Portland about 30 minutes ago.</div><div><br /></div><div>So...now for the pumpkins. </div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFGxU3DrOGoVewllVNjizKUMyIEMn_qmVjj9r9bYEPcQ1O2TPS0yuDfN7Eho1bKxzZ-OIEPeBWjpaBTJdGmb96Qj_17AJ8n5XRffCERNeF43DvtwPlG86yoW5s3A5Zbzu5Ew4t/s1600-h/Pumpkins+2008+001.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFGxU3DrOGoVewllVNjizKUMyIEMn_qmVjj9r9bYEPcQ1O2TPS0yuDfN7Eho1bKxzZ-OIEPeBWjpaBTJdGmb96Qj_17AJ8n5XRffCERNeF43DvtwPlG86yoW5s3A5Zbzu5Ew4t/s400/Pumpkins+2008+001.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256740428476982594" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKpX6hGz5ZmQ9fotKq71a5VS5qtjOVFZ7YNsTY_m173WNhJvPrMU-cMnbmIFAkzZuN6dio8OERgrhnE3ENlvkyt9704P2_hwmJR12pJgU47YmzSI5XduBzszDFTc4jMyC-r6ff/s1600-h/Pumpkins+2008+002.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKpX6hGz5ZmQ9fotKq71a5VS5qtjOVFZ7YNsTY_m173WNhJvPrMU-cMnbmIFAkzZuN6dio8OERgrhnE3ENlvkyt9704P2_hwmJR12pJgU47YmzSI5XduBzszDFTc4jMyC-r6ff/s400/Pumpkins+2008+002.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256740427633340386" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; " /></a></span><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEUWTFRfawvRg2RE18m5X5cJKGQNCq7hzu2iUJ_DqTZoeEtbZAp8-V-JIF6fio0HhMvo57eZCQOQROSe4KtFNm6SZPVlRlkZivjU9m38Fghs55yU4Nie917Ba1jKTgGaBg5KHf/s400/Pumpkins+2008+003.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256740431135561810" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Jays Pumpkin weighed in at 42 pounds, while Sam's weighed in at 32. They are huge, the biggest we have ever got!</div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-38097830907536581622008-08-31T19:24:00.002-04:002008-08-31T19:59:15.503-04:00Classic Music...for my GenerationOver the last few years I have begun to realize that my generation has its own classical music. The music of late, since the mid 90s has pretty much stunk, at least in my opinion. My iPod has some great "classical songs" and I will list a few of my favorites.<br /><br /><strong>Anything by Styx</strong><br />Styx the popular band from the 70s has several ballads that rock...literally! I honestly don't know what song is my favorite, so I will list them. <br /><br />Come Sail Away--my new ringtone on my phone<br />Lady<br />Babe<br />Mr. Roboto<br /><br />Their music has a lot of great piano and guitar solos. Its truly music. Some of their lyrics are a little weird, but the music is absolutely incredible.<br /><br /><strong>Dancing on the Ceiling--Lionel Richie</strong><br />I have always loved this song. It is the typical 80s anthem. Lots of partying, lots of synthesizer and a state of the art video for its time. This song is just fun!<br /><br /><strong>Hold On--Wilson Phillips</strong><br />This song was released in very late 1989 or early 1990. It features the trio of Chynna Phillips, Carnie Wilson and Wendy Wilson. This group has some of the tightest and most beautiful harmony. The girls blend well together and have some awesome guitar parts in the song. This is another "feel good song." The chorus is as follows.<br /><br /><div align="center"><em>Some day somebody's gonna make you want toTurn around and say goodbye</em></div><div align="center"><em>Until then baby are you going to let them </em><em>Hold you down and make you cry</em></div><div align="center"><em>Don't you know?..Don't you know things can change</em></div><div align="center"><em>Things'll go your way</em></div><div align="center"><em>If you hold on for one more day</em></div><div align="center"><em>Can you hold on for one more day</em></div><div align="center"><em>Things'll go your way</em></div><div align="center"><em>Hold on for one more day</em></div><div align="center"><em></em> </div><div align="left"><strong>Sara--Starship</strong></div><div align="left">This song has somewhat sentinmental value. No, I don't have a gf named Sara, but it was one of the first music videos I ever saw. It also has a great sound to it and strong lead vocals by Mickey Thomas. Bottom line, I love this song!</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"><strong>Jump--Van Halen</strong></div><div align="left">The opening cords to this song set the stage for an awesome song. It also features an awesome guitar rip by Eddie VanHalen. The synthesizer line is also trademark 80s. This remains one of my favorite songs of the 80s and gets a lot of playing time on my iPod.</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"><strong>Pour Some Sugar on Me--Def Leppard</strong></div><div align="left">Like Jump by Van Halen, this song is typical 80s. I realized that it was a classic in 2001 when driving the teens to my corps to DisneyWorld. While driving through Georgia on our way to Florida, this song came on, two others in the van who were chaperones recognized the song when it came on. We all got excited and sang along in the van. One of the younger teens said, "Captain why are we listening to oldies?" I told him that this was an oldy but a goodie. Great song with lots of great musical rips in it. </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"><strong>Kyrie--Mr. Mister</strong></div><div align="left">This song like Sara was one of the first music videos I had ever seen. Remember I lived in Punxsutawney, PA and we did not get MTV until 1988, and I didn't hear of VH-1 until I moved to Connecticut later that year. I saw this video on NBC's Friday Night Videos. It is a great song by the Band Mr. Mister that remains their top single and is heard on the radio to this day. </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"><strong>Dancing Queen--ABBA</strong></div><div align="left">When you hear the piano glissando followed by the hummed vocals, you know the song that is coming on. It's no other than Dancing Queen by ABBA. The piano line is good on this song. Benny Andersson is incredible and the lead vocals of Agnetha Fältskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad is both sensual and harmonious. This remains one of my favorite songs and I have several versions of it on my iPod, but I always prefer the original ABBA versions. </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left">There you have it. Those are just a few of the classic songs from my time. I welcome any comments that anyone would have.</div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-34827154437360271682008-08-29T08:12:00.003-04:002008-08-29T08:47:25.646-04:00Vacation at Rehoboth<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYLev95-IN7jOGKOGj5oEtBpkPQtY6h0lGYcv4l6lj9ZnLjua7kOOgtkknYIktMpWB6iUyp1IiY3cyT_kIl6F9HBhYaIPwCVbAWpqIVHamd0hqeva57hxR33v7eyf8bXcwd_QF/s1600-h/Rehoboth+Beach+2008+059.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239919530625427442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYLev95-IN7jOGKOGj5oEtBpkPQtY6h0lGYcv4l6lj9ZnLjua7kOOgtkknYIktMpWB6iUyp1IiY3cyT_kIl6F9HBhYaIPwCVbAWpqIVHamd0hqeva57hxR33v7eyf8bXcwd_QF/s400/Rehoboth+Beach+2008+059.JPG" border="0" /></a>Its been a while since I have posted, but we have had a busy few weeks. This culminated with our annual trek to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Rehoboth has been important to our family since 1981 when Mom, Dad, Grandma and Grandpa and I went down and spent a week there. I fell in love with the water and the rides at the tender age of 7 and had a great time. The following year, Aunt Dot, Uncle Steve and Krista joined us and that was a lot of fun. It's always good to have a cousin to hang out with and ride rides with! It was also our last vacation with Grandpa and I have some great memories of that week.<br /><div></div><br /><div>Over the years, beginning in 1986, my parents began regular trips. I joined them in 1986-1988, then I began working at Camp. I would not resume going again until 1999, then as a married man.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>This year our kids were really looking forward to going. Jay kept saying, "Dad, only two more days until we can eat Rehoboth and eat Grotto Pizza. Sam was looking forward to riding the Haunted Mansion and her new favorite ride--The Paratrooper, a ride that was once my favorite also.<br /></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239919526307545042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiplVZwJxQlxMaDq5iPTiJxSdAkkKaf3zHI_SQg_b56PJAH_sJFNp0-nGvOcfvioMs1QVehMyzherxJ39M33s_oR9eW4Ab7oBhOYUsXTid46bOzj6k7IJOnwDswZl6BOmCEzqDc/s400/Rehoboth+Beach+2008+004.JPG" border="0" />We awoke Saturday the 9th and began our trek through, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey and Delaware. We hit some serious traffic in Central New Jersey, but this would be a blessing in disguise as the traffic around Rehoboth had dissapated by the time we got there.<br /><div></div><div>We enjoyed our regular first evening dinner...Grotto Pizza. The kids went on rides, played games etc. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239919536914793490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdsmhSA8_0JiMr96XKSLWvlXH2V3KBXMU5E4BcfOdG7wRVycneawHf837imDCODi1T8-0c639uFVrdTwGn6rNqnsN_rts51fgObGgb8rG-DkGmczUBaPbH81XMcCqV8liTtE_s/s400/Rehoboth+Beach+2008+030.JPG" border="0" /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239919527922481650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnL1Q70pmvkOXqkWQzvzTJD9rYRl0bOqJUxlCSApIViFjneH6-Ytumm5p7iWe9D1GgrfMhAn_gp6RIVzHATwxmcEbjFT0KMglQYnK7BfOS71xv-VMfrMmH9nPrTMHh08rwAs3/s400/Rehoboth+Beach+2008+029.JPG" border="0" />It was a great week. The water could have been warmer, but we were still able to enjoy it. I read a book while having my feet in the sand. In fact, I read Barack Obama's The Audacity of Hope. I enjoyed it and reading helped me see that this man who is now the Democratic Nominee is a real guy. He seems like one of us.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239919527178002754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMnCVJD5WFmuk3A-Rm7hcBSA3x51eVOksk7XvE0gIeGQOx8YzYWkKhsHQZHGBbKFnaDMIIXPxys9UKmH3km-5Hrb_MIoLdc6IbFgzN2HCfWc0cr-YoZfm-hS73LtbtUSOSbb6U/s400/Rehoboth+Beach+2008+009.JPG" border="0" />On the way home, we stopped quickly in Lancaster County to visit Grandma and stopped by to see Grandpa at the Nursing Home. Mom, Dad and Tracy stayed behind a day, but we returned back home on Saturday. On the way home, driving up I-95, I was excited to get home. It was good to go on vacation, but once I am in the car going home, I want to get home!<br /><div></div><div> </div><div>Our next big vacation will be another cruise with Mom, Dad and Tracy next fall. That should be a good time. </div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-81115434999840176902008-07-18T20:22:00.004-04:002008-07-19T12:54:17.164-04:00Vacation in MaineI know I just posted about a vacation, but yes, we have just returned from another short vacation. This time we went to Maine to visit Mom, Dad, and Tracy at the Cove House at Camp Sebago for a few days. We then returned to their house for a day and a half prior to coming home.<br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224519562440289586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzOck2klVrZG10Ghe5N7cfWDDil-PXigl9oE8phjEe25xEJAul0OiE0yhR-u2mnhamldMvkvgi_RO75wfwei9fyQYhzHpi6_l8HNYTgoVze0-Acj02WEhQiJGprjmWyBmrZWR/s400/Maine+2008+006.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>After our Sunday services and community meal on Sunday, we drove the 223 miles to Camp Sebago to meet mom and dad at the Cove House. It is a very nice 2 bedroom house on the Camp property at Camp Sebago. It is called the Cove House because, you guessed it, it is in a Cove on lovely Sebago Lake. When we arrived on Sunday evening we had a quick meal and headed down to the lakeside to build a fire and make some smores. That was fun as in my 34 years of life, I don't think I have ever made smores with mom and dad. Tracy and Matt came down and joined us. Jay was especially proud to see Matt. He adores Matt!</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224519566274487138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC0SvC18BHSy3mA9LEpsUWKCPpqQgZC0FB9h0DKgr3bogElXts2neiEIpPdPdaCvFClzcpPXYlhTz39Y2WGTezB4G8jwM52pVBZouv3sixFYH1Y4eEROqqVwHhvMU7SMIoyEYy/s400/Maine+2008+008.JPG" border="0" />On Monday, we went to the Officers and Employees Picnic. It was nice to see people from our former corps there and some old friends. The food was pretty good too! After lunch, we headed down to the dock and enjoyed a boat ride on the lake. Following the boat ride, Jay and Sam, got on the inflatable obstacle course that featured a waterslide at the end. It looked fun and if the splash down water wasn't so dirty, I would have jumped on as well.<br /><div></div><br /><div>That evening, Tracy and I took the kids on a canoe ride. They enjoyed that a lot.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Over the next couple of days, the kids went swimming, back in the canoes, more smores. You get the idea. It was a lot of fun. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Our final evening, Mom, Dad and I sat out on the dock outside of the lodge and just enjoyed the moonlit lake. It was a very peaceful hour or so.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Our time at Sebago was short, but we then went to their home in Portland. It was nice to just relax and enjoy being with the family.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>On Thursday, Mom took us to the beach. While I don't LOVE Old Orchard Beach, it is okay in a pinch. Initially, the water was very cold, but the kids got right in. The waves were rather large, but the kids stayed out of the way, while still enjoying the water. I went in up to my knees to snag a few pictures. Sam unfortunately had some bad luck and got scraped up on some rocks. She wanted to wait to shower until Dad and Tracy got home because she wanted to show them her wrapped up leg. She cracks me up!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224519571547501058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3F_xbAQEAO_QLfID-RxcYYEr7OCq3x-KLbagGcuQdNc6vSJdAFZuJ6xhyphenhyphenwUkB_4wTdTukYPGZ5wXBXELqTub8oLw9vjHGbhaGVzg2ZjkDAYG0bwfsvQyiHCVCLYG5ff-nWkdd/s400/Maine+2008+011.JPG" border="0" /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224519577129233330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRlrM2jdDyEGlwMoxGVoyB3jDN9TmIm4ErvwYqNm8GoUaV4-qYImKOuROS6vXwu6Xi6FYwhwiGdtIjAxSn15FKwBURW4PRlTRg_yjeScQue2rbTTWb84xA2lXHHVaUW8jjeUIB/s400/Maine+2008+013.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224519579083632882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 298px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 404px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="402" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXRuYmvT5z2ZMXrv3xY1zwokYvMyylUND3n3APKS7B667QU3bQ2_jYvDbPKTGz6-WZpBpUyNlaMQNicF352N-sjgs4YxFYj_jIfz1fcJ79HrSnJ_xiyBR9stTyHTytHFtlGMd/s400/Maine+2008+017.JPG" width="300" border="0" />Thursday evening was especially nice for Mom and Elaine as they went to the OOB Pavillion and enjoyed a Sandi Patty Concert. They both enjoyed it and had good things to say about it.<br /><div></div><br /><div>In three weeks our "REAL" vacation will be here. That is when we go to Rehoboth Beach for a week. The water is warmer there. The bathrooms don't cost money, and the rides are much cheaper!!!</div>Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-68589874258650032622008-07-10T21:48:00.003-04:002008-07-10T22:08:16.454-04:00July Vacation--Part OneOn Sunday evening following our Sunday services we departed Connecticut for the hills of upstate NY to hook up with Elaine's parents before setting out for our first vacation of the summer season.<br /><br />For the last few years, Elaine has wanted to go visit her mothers family in the Watertown area of New York State. For all of this time, I expected that we were going to Watertown. When I was programming the GPS on Monday morning, I was concerned when the device could not find the street address. Would you know, that we were not going to Watertown, but Alexandria Bay. Now just the sound of that, sounds much more like a vacation. Nothing against Watertown, NY, but Alexandria Bay has a much nicer ring to it. When we arrived at Alexandria Bay, I knew we were far north. We exited the last exit prior to the bridge to Canada! Shortly after arriving at Elaine's cousins home, we ventured down to the riverfront and I was very impressed with this little town. It had a unique resort feel and seeing the watercraft on the St. Lawrence River got me excited. I even saw a few classic wood motorboats. I would sooooo love to have one of those!<br /><br />The kids went swimming, but instead, I looked around. I looked across the American Channel at the legendary Boldt Castle. I ventured downtown to check out the various shops. I really felt like I was on vacation, and I was excited to see this part of the country I have never been.<br /><br />All in all we had a great time. We enjoyed a 2 nation tour on the river, we ate really good courtesy of Judy and Bill's cooking, and the weather even cooperated despite a very late evening Thuderstorm.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221571668189537026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLgh7UwXCInYBIuajzhNaSRO6gwZMppjnQji_cVCheD-wngjYrx9x5bW27sTbhjW140Srlci9fMOia6MFbRP4TYAFwJ9EMgwo5kKYAFqj8B5qVIzx81wnpJ8eY538f7VGQrIX/s400/IMG_0566.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221571665873182002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPP7-0wCiU80htxKYG0hFtYpFxSg7qD5vbA-DL8PF7SHhKNCOxhRSeOuqGuQIDdWn1Ns98qPSkv9jkgAwfb1tzl2Soi2TrK3fzZ4pw6PQWpwY-eCruIP8vwe-pJmZvuf4HxCx/s400/IMG_0560.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221571659043949826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8oTxwDpapxT1bCmZAKBQsm_GUjy8GxHR9z26Pvh5lnGSO7bgF02C9gq45Sj_ItD9GWRpEgAJ5RE5mMKC_O7onno5KiGJYtKr_Ch1k8HqUpg4SqjJ-jFh7x35zwCBKrIz5ZMMi/s400/IMG_0558.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221571647364591266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZoRxYURdcMxLkyfnZJMslOGAxqC5N7eH8_uCvG7v086QuNy1bmc8bRUhGQ5ZxBS4VKj55iX4ARrbiFFV3N6ClZQx8bgHQsjYOElj-PXspdtZyHDa26_pUd7gCBIZxd12tXBg5/s400/IMG_0556.JPG" border="0" />I would like to return to this area of the country again in the next couple of years. Next time with a passport in hand so I can cross the border to Canada and check out that side of the St. Lawrence.<br /><br />Oh and by the way, Jay is so proud he has a license to drive an Uncle Sam Tour Boat up to 100 tons, and "he is only six!" Those latter and very former are his exact words! Please see the pictures attached of our vacation.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221571675875343570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi5I-6gjhHHYPLW2-yplmu-Ci0ONbezX1JUnrHTpwSZujOD0a1fYHVOdxdeeGsMZTm3RvbI5g1sIIj1VRMfTpwyBWCV9RhJOR9dq55K4kA2nv0cMNALziV9EWE0KN4d3LdnwpK/s400/IMG_0574.JPG" border="0" />We will be leaving for a short vacation to Maine on Sunday evening to stay in the Cove House on Sebago Lake.Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19872852.post-30349760497240416222008-06-05T08:54:00.003-04:002008-06-05T09:31:52.701-04:00Jay's First Yankee Game<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7tpw0bo7ICBx7EQFbIfriQCJgH_CaIR0Gfv570cgK54Ld6JyB6UB-GLgj7mCZFRtNh6rCr_EumR-dDqRpIS1qPqwuRrjFawGGoqi7MlOMksJ3DkONtzZvgn87ktCRNagzeIER/s1600-h/Jay's+First+Yankee+Game+016.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7tpw0bo7ICBx7EQFbIfriQCJgH_CaIR0Gfv570cgK54Ld6JyB6UB-GLgj7mCZFRtNh6rCr_EumR-dDqRpIS1qPqwuRrjFawGGoqi7MlOMksJ3DkONtzZvgn87ktCRNagzeIER/s400/Jay's+First+Yankee+Game+016.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208388126272186194" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqqtzJtCRjDZOq9Kao6Qj1eUipt7bV_Y-3O5Ov5fKKHg3lYvPxOZQQD6uAkh-wALSljFCG5-_0dNATnx8EJi6iWjbzD5GCXaemGQ8Uo_6aPzGbbxq_ZR08WUcXyAeGjLZGgOH/s1600-h/Jay's+First+Yankee+Game+011.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqqtzJtCRjDZOq9Kao6Qj1eUipt7bV_Y-3O5Ov5fKKHg3lYvPxOZQQD6uAkh-wALSljFCG5-_0dNATnx8EJi6iWjbzD5GCXaemGQ8Uo_6aPzGbbxq_ZR08WUcXyAeGjLZGgOH/s400/Jay's+First+Yankee+Game+011.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208388134862120802" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihUBr6J4FbghLO_lAUQBtJ33QAGOJbKOv9NxmLewPOQNdGy_G0_PLTNrlzzYOYsFw4hkGCxT48CJLBYtynWqVDmrLEt2DOO1xZmwlnXabPzhezLv2Ysv_U2QkLhchIJCjhCFpj/s1600-h/Jay's+First+Yankee+Game+001.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihUBr6J4FbghLO_lAUQBtJ33QAGOJbKOv9NxmLewPOQNdGy_G0_PLTNrlzzYOYsFw4hkGCxT48CJLBYtynWqVDmrLEt2DOO1xZmwlnXabPzhezLv2Ysv_U2QkLhchIJCjhCFpj/s400/Jay's+First+Yankee+Game+001.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208388139157088114" /></a><br />As a child going to ball games with my dad and grandpa, one of the things I used to think of was how cool it would be when one day, I would take my own child to a Yankee Game. That instance came sooner then expected.<br /><br />As many of you know, I have a small season ticket plan to the Yankees. Last evening was the 3rd of 8 games that I have tickets to this season. A couple of the people that I was going to originally ask to go along with me had schedule conflicts, so I got a great idea. My idea was to take my 6 year old son. I thought that I was about Jay's age when dad and grandpa took me to a few games in Baltimore to see the Yankees play the Orioles. I was 6 when I went to my first game at Yankee Stadium, so I thought, "let me give this a try."<br /><br />Well the weather didn't look good as glanced at the forecast early in the week. It seemed like the game would be a washout or rain out. Early in the afternoon, it seemed there was a break in the weather, so I said to Elaine, "I think I am going after all." Jay had no idea. Our car was at the Toyota dealer getting a major service...all preventative, so Elaine dropped me off to pick it up, and then went to pick up Jay and Sammi at school. I couldn't wait long enough for the bus to come. We had to leave as soon as they got home!<br /><br />A minute or so after being picked up my phone rang, "dad, why did mom pick me up from school? Are we going to the Yankee game?" Of course I replied with an affirmative. As soon as Jay got home, he looked for his hat, got a weather proof pull over on...just in case, then we got in the car and headed for New York. <br /><br />He took my advice to take a nap and pretty much slept the whole way. I woke him up in Yonkers to prepare him for his first trip to not just the Yankees, but to New York City as well.<br /><br />After parking the car, Jay immediately was filled with excitement. He said hello to everyone he saw. He remarked to me, "Dad that girl has a Jeter shirt." My response was, "you will see a lot of Yankee shirts here." He saw some MTA cops watching the tracks and said hello to them. We soon crossed the pedestrian bridge and the stadium came to sight. "Dad, Yankee Stadium is so big," was the first thing he said. He broke into, "Dad, I am so proud this is my first day at Yankee Stadium." <br /><br />Since we were a little later than I normally get to the ballpark, I decided we should eat in the stadium as there were long lines outside at Stan's. We went into the stadium, got a couple hot dogs, a couple of sodas, then Jay literally ran up the tunnel saying, "Dad, I want to go into the stadium"<br /><br />As soon as we sat, while still eating his hotdog, Jay inquired, "Dad where is the roll call guy." He of course was asking about Bald Vinny the leader of the roll call. He couldnt wait for the game to start and quickly rose to his feet when the Yankees took the field.<br /><br />The game progressed well despite the occasional drizzle, but Jay is expensive to take to a game. He wanted a second hot dog and a second soda. At Yankee stadium, that is a $10 expense. He quickly made friends with the people around us and was able to recognize the players on the field. He was especially excited to see, A-Rod, Jeter, and Johnny Damon.<br /><br />In addition to being a great game with nostalgic value for me, history was also made at Yankee Stadium last evening. Derek Jeter surpassed Mickey Mantle to claim third place on the Yankees all time hit list. Only Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig have more hits as a Yankee than Derek Jeter. After getting his hit, the 50,000+ in attendance were all on their feet chanting his name. Jeter reluctantly tipped his helmet to the fans. He is not one for self accolades.<br /><br />The Yankees defeated the Blue Jay 5-1. Mariano came in and very nearly struck out the side in the top of the 9th. He never ceases to amaze me. The crowd were on their feet for the entire 9th as Mo did his thing. When the final out was made, Jay looked at me and said, "dad, the Yankees won!" He then jumped up into my arms and gave me a hug as Sinatra's New York New York played on the stadium speakers. <br /><br />As we left the stadium and walked to the car, Jay said to me, "dad are you so proud the Yankees won for my first game?" I responded, "I sure am. Maybe I should bring you to all the Yankee games." <br /><br />It was a great night for the Yankees. It was a great night for me and Jay.Christianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08022222676892717825noreply@blogger.com2