Sharkjet's Scribblings

Photo of the Week: Tiger Lilies

2008-06-28T21:30:00.004-04:00

OK - this week it actually two photos. I Couldn't resist taking a couple of shots of some Tiger Lilies in our front garden. Click on the images to see the full res version.

Both were enhanced with Adobe PhotoShop Elements 6. I shot them with a Nikon D40x using the RAW format just before sunset.

The first shot was enhanced with the Camera Raw editor to increase the exposure, clarity and vibrance. I love how the colors and the details really "pop"!

The second shot was edited in the full PSE6 editor after a little tweaking with Camera Raw again. I used a light smudge technique to soften the surfaces and borders to create an interesting effect.

Enjoy!

An Old Cowboy's Advice

2008-06-11T19:40:00.002-04:00

A great friend of mine sent this to me recently - thought I'd post it here to share...

An Old Cowboy's Advice
- Your fences need to be horse-high, pig-tight and bull-strong.
- Keep skunks and bankers and lawyers at a distance.
- Life is simpler when you plow around the stump.
- A bumble bee is considerably faster than a John Deere tractor.
- Words that soak into your ears are whispered...not yelled.
- Meanness don't jes' happen overnight.
- Forgive your enemies. It messes up their heads.
- Do not corner something that you know is meaner than you.
- It don't take a very big person to carry a grudge.
- You cannot unsay a cruel word.
- Every path has a few puddles.
- When you wallow with pigs, expect to get dirty.
- The best sermons are lived, not preached.
- Most of the stuff people worry about ain't never gonna happen anyway.
- Don't judge folks by their relatives.
- Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.
- Live a good, honorable life. Then when you get older and think back ,you'll enjoy it a second time.
- Don't interfere with somethin' that ain't botherin' you none.
- Timing has a lot to do with the outcome of a rain dance.
- If you find yourself in a hole, the first thing to do is stop diggin'.
- Sometimes you get, and sometimes you get got.
- The biggest troublemaker you'll probably ever have to deal with, watches you from the mirror every mornin'.
- Always drink upstream from the herd.
- Good judgment comes from experience, and a lotta that comes from bad judgment.
- Lettin' the cat outta the bag is a whole lot easier than puttin' it backin.
- If you get to thinkin' you're a person of some influence, try orderin' somebody else's dog around.
- Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the rest to God.

Photo of the Week: A Fine Wine

2008-05-17T15:30:00.002-04:00

One of my favorite Chardonnay's.

This was what was left of a bottle from cocktail time on May 21st, 2005 out on the deck.

Ah, I remember it well!

Photo of the Week: Cool House

2008-05-10T15:55:00.004-04:00

I was on a recent trip to New Buffalo, MI and we took a drive around the town to check things out. We were driving down a road near the channel to Lake Michigan and I saw this house. The bright blue created an interesting contrast against the grey sky. I just thought it was a cool looking house.

Photo of the Week: Cabo Wabo

2008-05-03T20:40:00.001-04:00

I have to do a post in honor of Cinco de Mayo. What better way to remember the Battle of Puebla then to hoist a toast at one of my favorite watering holes - Sammy Hagar's Cabo Wabo in Cabo San Lucas Mexico. This is a picture of the mural in the cantina on the second floor that I took on our most recent trip down to Cabo in February of 2008. I think the picture says it all. So this Monday, sip some tequila and celebrate Cinco de Mayo!

(Click to view a larger version of the image. Use the Back button to return to the blog)

Photo of the Week: T-28 Blue Angels Trainer

2008-04-26T19:00:00.000-04:00

This was a shot I took at the Kalamazoo Air Museum (the Air Zoo) back on July 12th, 2002. I was there visiting the museum with some friends when they announced a special demonstration flight. We headed out to the tarmac in time to see them preparing this old T-28 Trojan used by the Blue Angels back in the 1950's for team training. It was quite a sight to see this vintage war bird fired up, take off and perform a few maneuvers for the crowd. What can I saw, I like aviation!

(Click on the image to enlarge. Use the Back button to return to the blog)

Photo of the Week: New Orleans Neon

2008-04-19T20:45:00.001-04:00

This was a neon sign I found inside a great little restaurant in the French Quarter in New Orleans. The name of the place was the Olde N'awlins Cookery, but unfortunately is was damaged by hurricane Katrina and has not reopened. I took the shot in April of 2002 when I was down there for a technical conference. It was one of the better business trips I have taken as the sessions were good and the atmosphere was inviting and fun. I have been to New Orleans a few times, but this one stands out as one of the better trips down there (thanks to Smelly Girl and the whole gang!). I just thought it was a cool image (I'm sure it had nothing to do with the copious amount of alcohol consumed prior to dinner). Click on the image for a larger version.

Photo of the Week: 1223 Pere Marquette

2008-04-12T14:01:00.006-04:00

I'm going to try something new, a feature I call Photo of the Week. Once a week I plan to do a post around one of the pictures I've taken over the years with a little history or story behind the shot.

The inaugural shot is one from back in August of 2002 taken near a park in Grand Haven, MI. It's a favorite of mine around railroading featuring the the 2-8-4 Pere Marquette steam engine # 1223.

1223 hauled freight between Toledo and Chicago in the years immediately before and after World War II and was retired in 1951. She's a reminder to me of the bygone days of steam locomotives.

Just want to see if...

2008-04-11T20:44:00.001-04:00

Just want to see if Jott still works directly to the blog sites. Hope so. listen

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Twitter??

2008-04-11T20:31:00.001-04:00

OK, I finally gave in and decided to play with yet another social networking site today. Just created a twitter account. Now the trick will be to actually update it in a timely fashion (just like this blog - yeah, right!). Anyway, we'll see how it goes.

2008 Full Moon Names

2008-01-05T13:00:00.003-05:00

Here is a listing of all the full moon names from http://www.space.com/, as well as the dates and times for 2008. Unless otherwise noted, all times are for the Eastern Time Zone.

Jan. 22, 8:35 a.m. EST: Full Wolf Moon. Amid the zero cold and deep snows of midwinter, the wolf packs howled hungrily outside Indian villages. It was also known as the Old Moon or the moon after Yule. In some tribes this was the Full Snow Moon; most applied that name to the next moon.

Feb. 20, 10:30 p.m. EST — Full Snow Moon. Usually the heaviest snows fall in this month. Hunting becomes very difficult, and hence to some tribes this was the Full Hunger Moon. This is also the night of a Total Lunar Eclipse. North and South Americans will have a ringside seat for this event and will take place during convenient evening hours. Observers in western Europe and western Africa will see this eclipse from start to finish during the morning hours of February 21.

Mar. 21, 2:40 p.m. EDT — Full Worm Moon. In this month the ground softens and the earthworm casts reappear, inviting the return of the robins. The more northern tribes knew this as the Full Crow Moon, when the cawing of crows signals the end of winter, or the Full Crust Moon because the snow cover becomes crusted from thawing by day and freezing at night. The Full Sap Moon, marking the time of tapping maple trees, is another variation. This is also the Paschal Full Moon; the first full moon of the spring season. The first Sunday following the Paschal Moon is Easter Sunday, which indeed will be observed two days later on Sunday, March 23. This will, in fact, be the earliest Easter since 1913.

Apr. 20, 6:25 a.m. EDT — Full Pink Moon. The grass pink or wild ground phlox is one of the earliest widespread flowers of the spring. Other names were the Full Sprouting Grass Moon, the Egg Moon, and — among coastal tribes — the Full Fish Moon, when the shad came upstream to spawn.

May 19, 9:11 p.m. EDT — Full Flower Moon. Flowers are abundant everywhere. It was also known as the Full Corn Planting Moon or the Milk Moon. Since the moon arrives at apogee less than 12 hours later, this will also be the smallest full moon of 2008. In terms of apparent size, it will appear 12.3 percent smaller than the full moon of Dec. 12.

Jun. 18, 1:30 p.m. EDT — Full Strawberry Moon. Known to every Algonquin tribe. Europeans called it the Rose Moon.

Jul. 18, 3:59 a.m. EDT — Full Buck Moon, when the new antlers of buck deer push out from their foreheads in coatings of velvety fur. It was also often called the Full Thunder Moon, thunderstorms being now most frequent. Sometimes also called the Full Hay Moon.

Aug. 16, 5:16 p.m. EDT — Full Sturgeon Moon, when this large fish of the Great Lakes and other major bodies of water like Lake Champlain is most readily caught. A few tribes knew it as the Full Red Moon because the moon rises looking reddish through sultry haze, or the Green Corn Moon or Grain Moon. There will be a Partial Lunar Eclipse that will be visible from Europe, Africa and the western two-thirds of Asia with this full moon. At its maximum 81 percent of the moon's diameter will become immersed in the Earth's dark umbral shadow.

Sep. 15, 5:13 a.m. EDT — Full Harvest Moon. Traditionally, this designation goes to the full moon that occurs closest to the Autumnal (fall) Equinox. The Harvest Moon usually comes in September, but (on average) about every three or four years it will fall in early October. At the peak of the harvest, farmers can work into the night by the light of this moon. Usually the full Moon rises an average of 50 minutes later each night, but for the few nights around the Harvest Moon, the moon seems to rise at nearly the same time each night: just 25 to 30 minutes later across the U.S., and only 10 to 20 minutes later for much of Canada and Europe. Corn, pumpkins, squash, beans, and wild rice — the chief Indian staples — are now ready for gathering.

Oct. 14, 4:02 p.m. EDT — Full Hunters' Moon. With the leaves falling and the deer fattened, it is time to hunt. Since the fields have been reaped, hunters can ride over the stubble, and can more easily see the fox, along with other animals, which have come out to glean and can be caught for a thanksgiving banquet after the harvest.

Nov. 13, 1:17 a.m. EST — Full Beaver Moon. Time to set beaver traps before the swamps freeze to ensure a supply of warm winter furs. Another interpretation suggests that the name Beaver Full Moon come from the fact that the beavers are now active in their preparation for winter. Also called the Frosty Moon.

Dec. 12, 11:37 a.m. EST — Full Cold Moon; among some tribes, the Full Long Nights Moon. In this month the winter cold fastens its grip, and the nights are at their longest and darkest. Also sometimes called the Moon before Yule. The term Long Night Moon is a doubly appropriate name because the midwinter night is indeed long and the moon is above the horizon a long time. The midwinter full moon takes a high trajectory across the sky because it is opposite to the low Sun. The moon will also be at perigee later this day, at 5:00 p.m. EST, at a distance of 221,560 mi. (356,566 km.) from Earth. Very high ocean tides can be expected from the coincidence of perigee with full moon.

Instant Jott

2007-09-19T16:26:00.001-04:00

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B-17 Visit

2007-08-04T18:45:00.000-04:00

A vintage B-17 came to visit our local airport this weekend. Armed with my new camera, I set out to capture some shots of this historic war bird.

Here is an excerpt from a recent article that describes the heritage of this particular aircraft:

eAA’s B-17
Aluminum Overcast was donated to EAA in 1983 by the group “B-17s
Around the World.” Headed by Dr. Bill Harrison, the group of investors
had purchased the aircraft in 1978 with the intention of restoring it and
preserving the heritage of the famous military bomber. They decided to
donate it after assessing the costs involved with restoring and maintaining
the aircraft.

Delivered to the Army Air Corps on May 18, 1945—too late to see action
in World War II—the airplane performed a wide variety of tasks. Purchased
as surplus from the military inventory in 1946 for $750, the airplane has
served as a cargo hauler, as an aerial mapping platform, and in pest
control and forest dusting applications.

Since the donation to EAA, an extensive program of restoration and
preservation was undertaken to ensure Aluminum Overcast would be
a living reminder of World War II aviation for many years to come. The
restoration took more than 10 years and thousands of hours by dedicated
staff and volunteers at EAA’s Kermit Weeks Flight Operations Center in
Oshkosh, Wisconsin. When the airplane was sold in 1946, most of the
original military equipment had been removed. Over the years, these items
have been located, restored, and returned to the aircraft, including the
Norden bombsight located in the nose of the airplane; restoration of the
navigator’s position (also located in the nose of the airplane); installation
of the waist guns located on each side of the bomber; rebuilding the radio
compartment, including original communications equipment; returning the
airplane’s floor to its original specifications; installation of a complete tail
turret assembly; and installation of a replica top turret just behind the pilot
and copilot seats.

Today, Aluminum Overcast carries the colors of the 398th Bomb Group,
which flew hundreds of missions over Nazi-held territory during World War
II. The aircraft commemorates B-17G s/n 42-102515, which was shot down
on its 34th combat mission over Le Manoir, France, on August 13, 1944.
Veterans of the 398th helped finance the bomber’s restoration.
The airplane was on display at the EAA AirVenture Museum until October
1993, when it was moved to EAA’s Kermit Weeks hangar for maintenance
and restoration in preparation for its first national tour in 1994.

New Toy!

2007-07-29T19:00:00.000-04:00

I went out today and bought a new toy/gadget. It's a Nikon D40X digital SLR camera.

A friend of ours was over this weekend and we started talking about photography. He was showing me his Nikon camera and the great pictures it takes. Now I had been contemplating purchasing a new camera for several months, but hadn't focused on it as a top priority. Well after seeing the results of our friends camera and the wonderful conversation around the hobby, I decided there wasn't going to be a better time to take it up myself. So after several hours of research Sunday, I headed out and picked up my new camera.

I have to say that after playing with it for several hours today I am absolutely thrilled with what this camera can do (not that I've even scratched the surface of exploiting all of its rich features).

Of course there's the obligatory flower shot to start things off...

I look forward to experimenting with it more and posting some of my results in this blog and others that I author.

Stay tuned!

New Presidential Helicopter Flies

2007-07-09T17:00:00.000-04:00

From the AV web site (http://www.avweb.com/eletter/archives/avflash/903-full.html#195585)...

The next president will have an "Oval Office In The Sky" aboard what is described as the most technologically advanced helicopter ever built. According to a news release, the AgustaWestland/Lockheed Martin VH-71 flew for the first time on July 3 and test pilots reported the aircraft performed well on the 40-minute flight at Italy-based AgustaWestland’s facilities in Yeovil, England. The flight occurred 30 months after the controversial contract was awarded (this will be the first Marine One that isn’t designed and built by a U.S. firm) and the company says it’s on track for on-time delivery of the first aircraft in late 2009. Although it’s a European design, the presidential helicopters are being developed with Lockheed Martin and will be assembled by Bell Helicopter in Texas. The VH-71s will have significantly better performance than the existing VH-3D and VH-60N aircraft currently in use. The VH-71 is based on AgustaWestland’s EH-101 tri-engine military and search and rescue helicopter. The program is being implemented in two stages, and in the second phase the helicopters will be outfitted with the gear needed to allow the president to exert command and control functions from the air. By 2014, the VH-71s will replace all 19 helicopters currently in the presidential fleet. Why so many? Marine One is usually accompanied by four other identical helicopters that change formation with the one occupied by the president to lessen the chance of his being attacked.

Tech Talk #004

2007-06-14T16:30:00.000-04:00

My father-in-law forwarded me an interesting video clip on some new technology that Microsoft is developing. It's called Microsoft Surface and it's a new way to interact with technology. Basically, with Surface you can "grab" data with your hands and move information between objects (like digital cameras, cell phone, laptops, etc.) with natural gestures and touch. It's actually pretty cool. If you've got a few minutes, give it a look!

Cool Plane - Cessna's Citation Mustang

2007-05-25T18:00:00.000-04:00

Here's a video clip for a cool new VLJ biz jet from Cessna called the Citation Mustang. I wouldn't mind having one of these!

A Sad Day

2007-04-18T21:00:00.000-04:00

Doesn't seem like it's been two years already, but alas, time keeps marching on.

Just taking a moment to remember and reflect - we miss you Mom!

Barbara Ann entered the world on February 27, 1925 born to Blanche and John. Throughout her early years, she was a spirited youth, exuberant and prone to mischief. From waking her baby sister Phyllis up at midnight convincing her it was time to dress for school to climbing out her bedroom window to go dancing at Diamond hall, she always met life on her own terms!

She met Ramon in the early 40’s, but was not convinced of love at first sight. He was tenacious in pursuing her, going to great lengths to prove his unwavering love for her. His perseverance finally paid off and Barbara realized what a wonderful man she had for life. They were united in marriage on September 14, 1946, and were inseparable from that day on, sharing 56 extraordinary years together.

Barb and Ray spent the next years raising three children – Judy, Patti and Greg. With such wonderful role models for parents, reared in a warm and nurturing home, they grew to be happy adults taking loving partners of their own. Judy & Bob, and Patti & Tom provided Barb and Ray with four amazing grand children – Kevin and Sara and Matthew and Sandy. The grandchildren were loved and spoiled with Grandma and Grandpa’s time and attention and will forever treasure the precious bonds they have with them. Greg and Kristine had the dubious distinction of introducing the beloved grand-dog Harley who will surely miss the special treats Grandma offered him.

Barbara was uniquely unselfish in her dedication to family, community and church and was a long time member of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish. Along with tending her family, she took great satisfaction in volunteer activities. From being a Den Mother for Greg over several years to offering her time and talents at church, she continuously demonstrated what it meant to be a true Christian and friend. Of all her accomplishments, she most enjoyed her years as a volunteer in the surgical family waiting room at the former Butterworth Hospital. While performing her duties there, she came to be loved by patients and doctors alike. While pouring hot beverages for anxious family members waiting through their loved ones’ surgeries, she also poured out her compassion, comfort, and encouragement.

Barbara had a zest for life and an appetite for adventure, always making everyone that she interacted with feel at ease with her warm smile and outgoing personality. She loved to travel, taking many cruises and visiting interesting destinations over the years. She had a particular fondness for a city called Las Vegas which provided her with an unending source of amusement and entertainment. If luck be a lady, her name was Barbara!

Barbara will be deeply missed and fondly remembered in love by her family, friends and the community. But it is certain that she would not want us to grieve, but rather celebrate her life well lived and loved. There is a thought that provides one perspective of her years: “Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, Champagne in one hand, chocolate in the other, totally worn out and content exclaiming WOW - What a ride!”

Tech Talk # 003

2007-03-18T20:20:00.000-04:00

Today's Tech Talk expands on with the theme from TT002 by focuses on some of my favorite web development online tools.

I realize there are tons of links to numerous online web development tools, technologies and trends. Everyone has their favorites; these are just a few of mine that I use often:

To get a jump start on a brand new page or site, I like to check out Cool Homepages.
For Cascading Style Sheets I like Glish, Dynamic Drive and the CSS Tutorial.
Here is a really cool tool for picking colors along with a handy Color Names chart.
Here's a nice DHTML reference site.
And last but not least, a nifty Designer's Toolbox.

Hope you find some of these useful for your web design & development adventures!

Tech Talk # 002

2007-02-17T20:00:00.000-05:00

Today's Tech Talk focuses on my favorite HTML editors.

I still do web page design and development as time permits. Having worked in this space for the better part of 10 years I've come to rely on a trusty standby and a more recent (relatively) entry in the HTML editor arena.

My first choice continues to be HomeSite 5.5. This cool tool does a lot in a very light environment! It's fast, intuitive and feature rich. Maybe it's because I cut my teeth learning HTML with it, or maybe it's just a great tool, but either way I like it a lot!

The new comer for me was a simple product I found a year or so ago. It's called Note Tab Light. While I don't use it as much as HomeSite (I usually use it for quick changes and have it installed on all my workstations at home & the office) it's a nice, light, flexible tool. And the part I like best is that its free!! With tabbed file management (similar to IE7) it makes working with multiple pages (files) a breeze. And because it's so small, I carry it on my thumb drive as part of my digital toolkit. It's also a great replacement for Windows Notepad

Check them both out and see what you think!

The Blizzard of '07!

2007-02-03T14:30:00.000-05:00

Well winter finally caught up with us in West Michigan today. The National Weather Service has officially declared a blizzard. Here's the exact text:

GRAND RAPIDS --
A BLIZZARD WARNING is in effect for much of West Michigan. Around 11:20 a.m. Saturday, the blizzard warning was extended into Berrien and Cass Counties. Snow showers will intensify this morning, as the second of two Arctic fronts moves through the region. In addition to heavy snow showers, winds will increase dramatically this morning. Temperatures will drop into the single digits. With the gusty winds, our wind chills will drop into the "Danger Zone" today, holding at -10 to -20. Blowing & drifting snow will become a huge concern, especially in the rural areas. Some north-south roads may almost drift shut, and become virtually impassable.

BLIZZARD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 10 PM EST THIS EVENING... A BLIZZARD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 10 PM EST THIS EVENING. LAKE EFFECT SNOW WILL BE HEAVY AT TIMES WITH TOTAL ACCUMULATIONS OF 3 TO 5 INCHES ANTICIPATED FOR TODAY AND THIS EVENING. WEST WINDS WILL GUST AT TIMES TO 40 MPH THIS AFTERNOON AND CONTINUE INTO THE EARLY EVENING. IT IS DURING THIS TIME THAT BLIZZARD CONDITIONS ARE EXPECTED...WITH FREQUENT WHITEOUT CONDITIONS DUE TO THE COMBINATION OF SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW. A BLIZZARD WARNING MEANS SEVERE WINTER WEATHER CONDITIONS ARE EXPECTED. TRAVEL WILL EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. IF YOU MUST TRAVEL THIS AFTERNOON AND EVENING...HAVE A WINTER SURVIVAL KIT WITH YOU. IF YOU GET STRANDED...STAY WITH YOUR VEHICLE. WIND CHILLS OF 10 TO 20 BELOW ZERO TODAY WILL LOWER TO 20 TO 30 BELOW TONIGHT. THIS MAY RESULT IN FROST BITE AND LEAD TO HYPOTHERMIA IF PRECAUTIONS ARE NOT TAKEN. IF YOU MUST VENTURE OUTDOORS...DRESS IN LAYERS AND MAKE SURE YOU WEAR A HAT AND GLOVES.

I took a few pictures in the 30+MPH winds and 6 degree temps - not very nice out there...

Tech Talk # 001

2007-01-15T20:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to a new feature debuting today on SS!

I have had numerous requests from family & friends to share my insights, opinions, successes and failures regarding technology. To that end, I'll post information, reviews, "how to's", etc. from time to time as I come across things that interest me or that I have somehow become (or been forced to become) familiar with. I'll even look back at some of the existing technologies I have implemented and discuss those too.

To start off the inaugural Tech Talk (TT) posts, I'm going to focus on the Google Reader. This gadget (actually it's a web site) is a pretty handy and downright cool tool. It's designed to help you keep track of your favorite websites, blogs, RSS feeds, etc. I have two accounts, one I use for work related information and the other for my personal stuff.

So, how does it work? Well first you need a Google account. Once you have your account, go to the Google Reader login page and sign in with your account information. Once you're logged in, follow the detailed help prompts to subscribe to your very first feed.

In case anyone out there is wondering what some of my subscriptions are, here's a partial list:

One of my favorite work-related blogs that I visit daily is Google SEO extraordinaire Matt Cutts (this is a great site to add to you're subscription list if you are into SEO & SERMA). Anyway, Matt has a great post on the reader and some of it's cool features.

So talk a few minutes and check out the reader sometime, hopefully you'll enjoy it and find it as useful as I have!

2007 Full Moon Names & Notes

2007-01-01T17:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a listing of all the full Moon names, as well as the dates and times for 2007. Unless otherwise noted, all times are for the Eastern Time Zone.

Jan. 3, 8:57 a.m. EST: The Full Wolf Moon. Amid the zero cold and deep snows of midwinter, the wolf packs howled hungrily outside Indian villages. It was also known as the Old Moon or the "Moon After Yule." In some tribes this was the Full Snow Moon; most applied that name to the next Moon.

Feb. 2, 12:45 a.m. EST: The Full Snow Moon. Usually the heaviest snows fall in this month. Hunting becomes very difficult, and hence to some tribes this was the Full Hunger Moon.

March 3, 6:17 p.m. EST: The Full Worm Moon. In this month the ground softens and the earthworm casts reappear, inviting the return of the robins. The more northern tribes knew this as the Full Crow Moon, when the cawing of crows signals the end of winter, or the Full Crust Moon because the snow cover becomes crusted from thawing by day and freezing at night. The Full Sap Moon, marking the time of tapping maple trees, is another variation. A total lunar eclipse will take place on this night; the Moon will appear to rise and will be totally immersed (or nearly so) in the Earth's shadow over the eastern United States. The rising Moon will be emerging from the shadow over the central United States, while over the Western U.S. the eclipse will be all but over by the time the Moon rises.

April 2, 1:15 p.m. EDT: The Full Pink Moon. The grass pink or wild ground phlox is one of the earliest widespread flowers of the spring. Other names were the Full Sprouting Grass Moon, the Egg Moon, and -- among coastal tribes -- the Full Fish Moon, when the shad came upstream to spawn. This is also the Paschal Full Moon; the first full Moon of the spring season. The first Sunday following the Paschal Moon is Easter Sunday, which indeed will be observed six days later on Sunday, April 8.

May 2, 6:09 a.m. EDT: The Full Flower Moon. Flowers are abundant everywhere. It was also known as the Full Corn Planting Moon or the Milk Moon.

May 31, 9:04 p.m. EDT: The Blue Moon. The second full Moon occurring within a calendar month is usually bestowed this title. Although the name suggests that to have two Full Moons in a single month is a rather rare occurrence (happening "just once in a . . . "), it actually occurs once about every three years on average.

June 30, 9:49 a.m. EDT: The Full Strawberry Moon. Known to every Algonquin tribe. Europeans called it the Rose Moon.

July 29, 8:48 p.m. EDT: The Full Buck Moon, when the new antlers of buck deer push out from their foreheads in coatings of velvety fur. It was also often called the Full Thunder Moon, thunderstorms being now most frequent. Sometimes also called the Full Hay Moon.

Aug. 28, 6:35 a.m. EDT: The Full Sturgeon Moon, when this large fish of the Great Lakes and other major bodies of water like Lake Champlain is most readily caught. A few tribes knew it as the Full Red Moon because the moon rises looking reddish through sultry haze, or the Green Corn Moon or Grain Moon. A total lunar eclipse will coincide with moonset for the eastern United States. The Central and Mountain Time Zones will see the Moon's emergence coincide with moonset, while the western United States will see the entire eclipse.

Sept. 26, 3:45 p.m. EDT: The Full Harvest Moon. Always the full Moon occurring nearest to the Autumnal Equinox. Corn, pumpkins, squash, beans, and wild rice-- the chief Indian staples--are now ready for gathering.

Oct. 26, 12:52 a.m. EDT: The Full Hunter's Moon. With the leaves falling and the deer fattened, it is time to hunt. Since the fields have been reaped, hunters can ride over the stubble, and can more easily see the fox, also other animals that have come out to glean and can be caught for a thanksgiving banquet after the harvest. The Moon will also be at perigee later this day, at 7:00 a.m., at a distance of 221,676 miles from Earth. Very high tides can be expected from the coincidence of perigee with full Moon.

Nov. 24, 9:30 a.m. EST: The Full Beaver Moon. Time to set beaver traps before the swamps freeze to ensure a supply of warm winter furs. Another interpretation suggests that the name Beaver Full Moon comes from the fact that the beavers are now active in their preparation for winter. Also called the Frosty Moon.

Dec. 23, 2:51 a.m. EST: The Full Cold Moon; among some tribes, the Full Long Nights Moon. In this month the winter cold fastens its grip, and the nights are at their longest and darkest. Also sometimes called the "Moon before Yule" (Yule is Christmas, and this time the Moon is only just before it). The term Long Night Moon is a doubly appropriate name because the midwinter night is indeed long and the Moon is above the horizon a longtime. The midwinter full Moon takes a high trajectory across the sky because it is opposite to the low Sun.

Done for the Year

2006-12-31T15:30:00.000-05:00

Well it's hard to believe that it's December 31st, 41 degrees with rain, and no snow on the ground! Guess I should have left the heater on - could have been swimming! Anyway, the pool project is complete. The power cover was installed in early November and the pool has been winterized and is taking a bit of a rest until Spring (which I hope comes early in 2007!).

Below is a final picture showing the cover in place, lack of snow on the ground and a relatively tranquil look to the back yard.

On that note, hope everyone had a great 2006 and best wishes for a happy & prosperous New Year!

Almost Done!

2006-10-22T15:00:00.000-04:00

We're closing in on completion of the project. There are a few more small items to complete, but we expect most everything to be wrapped up by the end of this week.

Here are a few more pictures of the almost completed project!

Fill'er Up!

2006-10-19T21:00:00.000-04:00

After 1.5" of snow last Thursday and more rain through this past Tuesday, the weather finally cooperated and we got a dry and relatively warm day (60 degrees) yesterday. That was enough of a window to let the pool crew plaster the pool and fill it, late in the day. So as of now, we have a pool that is operational but darn cold (58 degrees)! Here's how the day progressed...

The plaster was sprayed on starting with the walls

The crew worked in small sections at a time

It took from 10:00am until mid-afternoon to finish the plastering

The finished product was a snow white smooth marcite finish!

The water tanker arrived a bit after 5:00pm to deliver the first load

This is how the pool looked after the first 14,000 gallons

View from the deep-end half full

The remaining 13,000 gallons begins to be pumped in

It takes about 18 minutes to empty the full tanker load (14,000 gallons)

The "tanker" on it's final delivery of our water

The pool the way it looked today. The mechanicals worked perfectly and the power falls were way cool!

Push Continues

2006-10-10T20:15:00.000-04:00

The push continues, but again progress is slow due to the residual moisture and the forecast for yet more rain. More of the plantings were completed on day two of the push and some of the bark was spread. Hopefully in the next week we'll be able to get the pool plastered, filled and wrap up most of the miscellaneous tasks remaining!

Last Minute Push!

2006-10-09T19:45:00.000-04:00

Well progress was slowed significantly last week due to 4" of rain over a two day period early in the week. With 4 days of sun & wind, the soil dried enough to let the team begin the irrigation and continued landscaping today. Now the rush is on to get as much done in the next two days since there are predictions of sharply colder temperatures and possible accumulating snow by the end of this week.

Tomorrow the fencing should begin, irrigation should wrap and the remaining plantings should go in, followed by the bark & field stone, and the tile work on the front of the pool should get going. All in all it promises to be a busy couple of days!

The pool can't be plastered this week due to the potentially bad weather. That is now scheduled for early next week which means water may go in as early as next Wednesday the 18th.

The good news is that most of the stone work is done (which I'm sure the masons are thankful for!) They did an awesome job on the stone - take a look...

Transformation!

2006-10-01T21:30:00.000-04:00

Wow! What a transformation this past week. I was in Japan on business and when I arrived home late Saturday afternoon I couldn't believe the difference from when I left.

All the dirt piles were gone, the grading was competed and top soil laid down. Some of the larger landscaping was started including several trees, shrubs and boulders. The trampoline was installed in-ground and the remaining cap stone around the pool was installed. The tile in the pool was grouted and even some of the low-voltage landscaping lighting was installed. The bottom of the fire pit was placed where the hole will be, and most of the drainage lines have been run & buried. It's really starting to come together.

Next week the irrigation goes in, more landscaping, the stone work should be wrapping up and the pool interior will be plastered, targeting to fill with water around 10/9.

Stone Work

2006-09-24T21:00:00.000-04:00

The stone work is progressing nicely. The cultured stone is about 75% complete and the pavers are all in. The tile around the inside of the pool at the water line is in as well. Everything is looking great! The landscaping should start next week, weather permitting.

Working Hard!

2006-09-17T21:00:00.000-04:00

The teams really worked hard Thursday & Friday, taking advantage of the dry and warm weather. And a big thank you to the Bluewater, Signature and Cultured Stone crews for giving up their Saturday and working really hard! The pavers on the sun deck are pretty much done, ready for the flexible mortar, and the cultured stone on the pool wall is just about complete as well (nice job hiding the power falls!). The stone on the steps leading into the pool looks awesome, and most of the stone on the steps leading up from the lower patio is also done.

The teams will have their work cut out for them next week as the forecast is more rain and colder temperatures. The schedule includes the tile on the front pool wall,the remainder of the stone around the pool lip, and the cultured stone on the retaining walls along with the pavers on the lower patio. It promises to be a busy week!

What a Mess!

2006-09-14T21:00:00.000-04:00

Well, I spoke too soon last week about the weather holding out & cooperating. We got several days of rain - heavy rain - and that mixed with copious amounts of clay in our back yard translated into one big, slippery, slimmy mess! It has really slowed down the progress and provided numerous challenges for all parties involved. Below are just a few shots of the mess...

Once the rain stopped today, work was able to resume, albeit slow. The crew was finally able to get the cement truck here to pour the slabs for the sun deck and lower patio area. Originally Signature expected to just used basically crushed stone as the foundation, but due to almost pure clay beneath, they opted for a more stable base of cement. Once it sits for a day or so, they will be able to start laying the patio pavers.

This should complete the cement work as all the stairs, retaining walls, and foundations are complete. The vault for the power cover was installed along with some modifications to the electrical service required by the cover. We're about a week off schedule now, and although it is suppose to be warm and sunny for a couple days, the forecast for early next week is more rain and sharply colder temps (highs on in the mid 50's). Keep your fingers crossed that we hold on to summer a little longer!

(View looking East at the deep-end)

(View looking South towards the house. The black channel is the cover vault)

(View looking Southwest at the shallow-end stairs)

(View West from the sun deck at the shallow end. The have started installing the cultured stone on the back wall.)

(View looking Northwest from the lower patio)

(View looking Northeast from the top of the stairs)

Footings & Wall Forms

2006-09-07T20:30:00.000-04:00

The Signature team pressed on today. All the footers were poured yesterday, all the rebar and wall forms were erected today in preparation for pouring the walls tomorrow. The only cement work left after this should be to make the stairs on the outside of the pool, and the stairs leading from the upper deck area to the pool patio area.

Some of the drainage line has also been installed where the patio pavers will be near the pool.

In case you're curious, the big block of cement in the deep-end corner is the swim-up platform. That will allow us to swim up and exit the pool on the sun deck, or just hang our and chat with people lounging on the sun deck or on the pool patio (maybe a swim-up bar?? - hum)

We're still pretty much on track, and the weather has been cooperating very well (knock on wood!).

Work Continues

2006-09-05T21:15:00.000-04:00

Work continues this week in full force with teams from both Blue Water Pools and Signature Outdoor Concepts.

The Signature team is busy excavating for the footings of the remaining retaining walls while the Blue Water team is adding the steps and swim up bench inside the pool.

If all goes well, the forms for the cement will be in place tomorrow and the walls & stairs should be poured shortly after that.

Pool Shell Complete!

2006-08-31T20:45:00.000-04:00

Well a large portion of the first phase was checked off today with the completion of the pool shell. The forms were removed this afternoon revealing the rough shell of the pool. It will take several weeks to cure before the marcite plaster finish is applied.

While the shotcrete is curing, work will continue with the retaining walls, steps and grading in preparation for the patio paver installation in a couple weeks.

Also, all the mechanicals for the pool have been installed and plumbed. They just need to get the electric & gas run and those will be all set.

It's starting to look like a pool!!!

Shooting the Pool!

2006-08-29T21:45:00.000-04:00

The team from Blue Water was able to start the process of shooting the pool today - as the weather finally cooperated!!

They prepared by adding the plumbing for the power falls on the back wall, then the crew came in to start the noisy, dusty process of "shooting" the walls. The guys did a great job, get 80%+ of the walls done today. This is hard, messy work -- but the end result is really cool!

The crew should be able to complete the process tomorrow, then it has to sit for a while to cure. I'm sure our neighbors will be happy when this phase of the project is complete!

Rain!

2006-08-25T20:30:00.000-04:00

Well, the rains came Thursday & Friday and forced a postponement of shooting the pool walls. The Blue Water team worked through the inclement weather to secure the pool and surrounding area from the deluge.

Weather permitting, we'll try again Monday & Tuesday next week!

Forming the Walls

2006-08-23T19:45:00.000-04:00

The work continues on the pool as the team set up the wall forms over the past couple of days. We're still tracking towards shooting the pool this Friday -- if the weather cooperates (thundershowers in the forecast).

The team from Blue Water Pools have commented on the challenging nature of this project due to the interesting terrain we have in our back yard. But that hasn't deterred them from rising to the challenge by applying their expertise and determination to create our unique pool. I have to say we've been very impressed with the team from Blue Water!

The Pool Floor is Poured!

2006-08-21T20:30:00.000-04:00

The floor of the pool was poured today as progress continues on the pool. If all goes well, the forms for the walls will be in place later this week, targeting to pour the walls by Friday.

(Click on any image to view a larger version)

Shaping the Pool

2006-08-19T10:45:00.000-04:00

The expert team at Blue Water Pools continued the work of adding rebar steel to reinforce the pool structure prior to the shotcrete process scheduled for next week. This is tedious work, but will pay off in a quality, long lasting final product.

The Big Dig

2006-08-16T22:30:00.000-04:00

The big equipment arrived early this morning to begin digging the hole for the pool. It was quite a sight to see the large machine maneuver into the backyard and begin the delicate process of excavating the dirt. By the end of the day, the hole was completed and the bed or crushed limestone was in place. The team at Blue Water Pools will be back tomorrow to start the steel work in preparation for "shooting the pool" next week.

(click on any of the images to view a larger version)

We're Building a Pool!

2006-08-10T09:30:00.000-04:00

We decided to put a pool in this year since Annierae loves the water so much. Our neighbor and friends, Lisa & Grant, gave us the name of Signature Outdoor Concepts as a landscape company that could help us install the pool. We contacted Signature and after several meetings decided they were the best choice to handle a project of this magnitude.

The team at Signature has been great to work with so far, and we're on an eleven week schedule to complete the project. So by the end of October, everything should be complete!

The process to prepare for and construct our pool began in earnest today. The tree guys were here removing several of the large trees in the way. They had quite an audience as some of our family and neighbors were on the deck watching & supervising. By days end we had tracks throughout our back yard and 5 large trees gone. Next week the real fun begins as the excavators show up to dig the hole!

(click on any of the images below to see a larger version)

Return of my Ramblings

2006-08-08T22:46:00.000-04:00

Well as you can see, this is my first post in quite some time. To be honest, I forgot I started this blog (been busy with lots of family stuff lately). In any case, I've dusted off my old home page (www.sharkjet.net) and this blog. Over the coming weeks I plan to do more in both places. Nothing fancy, just something to occupy all my free time - oh yeah - that's right, I don't have any free time!! Ah well, I'll do what I can (and I promise, more of these posts will actually be interesting and have a point).

C ya!

What is a Sharkjet?

2006-06-09T18:09:00.000-04:00

Several people have asked me what the term SharkJet refers to, so I thought I'd take a minute and explain what a SharkJet is along with it's origin.

Several years ago I was talking to a dear friend of mine. She knew about my interest in aviation and proceeded to tell me a story about an airplane that her and her son had seen recently flying around town. She was hoping I could tell her what type of aircraft they had spotted. She described it as a large, grey military plane with 4 engines, a large tail fin and some kind of "thing" hanging from the back of the plane. As I thought about her description she added that her son thought it looked like a shark with it's tall fin flying through the air. That was the beginning of the new name SharkJet for what turned out to be a KC-135 air tanker.

The words her son used to describe the plane stuck with me and I thought it sounded like a cool domain & e-mail address, so I registered both. Turns out it was a relatively unique name as well. So thank you Patty & John for inspiring my imagination!

Another Post - Finally!!!

2005-08-30T20:58:00.000-04:00

Well, nothing like waiting 6 months to post to your blog. This is turning out to be a disastrous endeavor. Oh well.

In any case, I am at least including a picture of our new house. Mostly cause I want to see if photobucket really works. So here it goes - our new house...

That's all for now - too busy to write more :(

The House is Done!

2005-02-15T08:09:00.000-05:00

Well the new house is finally complete! We officially moved in on Tuesday, February 8th, 2005!!! There are still a few odds & ends left to resolve, but by all accounts the build & move were a success.

It will take several weeks to wade through and unpack all the boxes, repatriating our belongings into their new resting places. The good news is it's like starting with a clean slate, we can put things wherever we want :)

Here is a picture of the front of the house:

So long for now...

Remembering

2004-12-06T21:30:00.000-05:00

It's been 2 years since Dad passed away. In some ways it seems like just yesterday, in others it seems much longer. I wanted to share the memorial we wrote for him...

As a final tribute to Dr. Ramon B. Lang, we have created a look back at some highlights of his life from both a personal and business perspective…

DR. RAMON B. LANG:
AN EXAMPLE OF LEADERSHIP

Every business or field of endeavor has a front-runner, or leader. Some of these individuals become highly visible while others remain obscure. Their influence may only impact one individual or an entire population.

Dr, Ramon B. Lang, M.D. was one of these individuals, a leader, a visionary. His accomplishments, while sometimes obscure, have affected the lives or every person in the United States, at one time or another.

Dr. Lang was born in the small town of Waverly Georgia. As he used to joke, "If you blinked as you drive through the town, you'd miss it." Young Ramon Lang assumed leadership early in his life, his father died when Ramon was only seven. His mother soon moved the family to Jacksonville, Florida, where they remained for a year before moving to settle in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Soon after moving to Grand Rapids, Ramon took the initiative to find a job. While still in elementary school, Ramon began delivering newspapers for the now defunct Grand Rapids Herald, which meant delivering papers as early as four o'clock in the morning. Ramon retained the job with the Herald through high school.

As a youngster, Ramon progressed as an achiever and leader. He was an eager high school athlete, demonstrating his skill and determination as a member of the Ottawa Hills wrestling team. His hard work and dedication to be the best earned him All-State honors in his junior year. His hopes to repeat those accolades during his senior year were dashed when he broke his arm while practicing for the state tournament, rendering him a spectator for the remainder of the season.

As a young man, Ramon had a vision for his future based on a need to do something that would challenge him as an individual. As his vision grew in intensity and clarity, he realized that beyond the personal challenge, he had a deep desire to choose a profession that would help others. The strength and conviction of his internal energy drove him to refine what it was that he really wanted to do in life.

He set out on a journey without a map to study, no guidebooks to read and no pictures to view. He focused only on the endless possibilities that lay ahead of him in order to create and discover his future, his vision. Ray enrolled and graduated from Grand Rapids Junior College. Being a student and leader, Ray had several jobs while attending school. He worked at the General Motors factory in the plywood division, and was a stock boy and cashier at the A& P grocery store. In one instance, while working at the grocery store, Ray checked out a customer so rapidly that he literally burned up the cash register. When asked what management did concerning the occurrence, he stated, "They just bought me a new one".

Ray's vision was like a window into the world of tomorrow. While most people just talked about doing things they've never done before, Ray was already doing them. After graduation from GRJC, Ray enlisted in the army and was placed in the medical unit. During this time his youthful vision continued to become clarified. In his younger days, Ray had aspirations of becoming a bus driver. Instead, he was now driving trucks through narrow, perilous mountain roads in Europe during the height of World War II. As he maneuvered through the treacherous mountains, Ray learned how important leadership and competency were, along with life's requirement to make decisions under conditions of extreme uncertainty. These experiences while Ramon was in the army ignited the fires of leadership within him. His leadership prevailed. After serving three and one half years in the medical unit, his interest in medicine and saving lives led him to apply to the University of Michigan Medical School. Ray had decided to follow in his father's footsteps and pursue a career as a doctor.

Ray's tenacity for achievement became apparent after receiving a letter of rejection from the University of Michigan. The school cited the lack of credits for rejection. This was unacceptable to him, so he compiled all the pertinent information available and made a trip to Ann Arbor. Not only was he tenacious, he was persistent. Ramon waited an entire day in the same chair for his opportunity to discuss his position with the admissions dean. One week later, Ramon was enrolled in the medical school at U of M and subsequently graduated in 1951.

Dr. Lang served his four-year residency at Butterworth Hospital, providing him with a career exploration opportunity. Originally Ray's aspirations were in general surgery, however, he switched to the OB-GYN program. Why? Because a co-resident friend wanted to pursue general surgery and there were no openings, so Ray reconsidered and switched to the OB-GYN program. Little did Ray know at the time that his decision to convert to an OB-GYN physician would have far reaching effects, which would eventually lead him to assisting the less fortunate Medicade recipients of Kent county. Upon completing his residency, Dr. Lang went into private practice until he retired in 1988. Even after retiring from his private practice, Dr. Lang served as the clinical chief supervisor of OB-GYN for Spectrum Health where he would often take twelve and twenty-four hour shifts several times a week on the OB floor. By the time Ray retired completely from Spectrum Health in October of 2002, he had delivered over 11,000 new babies into the world!

Dr. Lang's professional background, besides being exemplary, was also diversified. His expertise and perpetual leadership involved him in many other endeavors including:

· Member of the Courtesy Staff at: Blodqett, St. Mary's, and Ferguson's Hospitals.

· Senior Deputy Medical Examiner of Kent County since 1968.

· Associate Professor at Michigan State University.(Instructing medical school students.)

· Adjunct Professor, Grand Valley State University, Biology.

· Red Cross, Emergency childbirth class instructor.

· Lieutenant, Enforcement Division - Kent County Traffic Squad.

Dr. Lang displayed leadership in every aspect of his life. His intelligence was unquestionably highly regarded and his experience was often sought out as an educator and role model. So many of Dr. Lang's traits overlap that it is difficult to dissect each characteristic. Dr. Lang's credentials, experience and achievements say it all. He was a man among men. His traits of understanding, kindness and compassion weren't limited to patients or peers.

Dr. Lang was the epitome of humanity; his personable character enriched everyone he came into contact with, as he exuded motivation and confidence while being a highly respected achiever and leader.

Even after many years as a medical examiner, Dr. Lang would still become emotional when the cadaver he had to work on was only a child.

Dr. Lang did not accept stagnation or complacency, from the time he challenged his rejection to medical school through his retirement, with equal commitment, Dr. Lang was always eager to undertake a new challenge.

Although Dr. Ramon Lang had always set his sights high, he was able to extol leadership in every area he became involved in. A prime example of this came in 1967 when he embarked on one of his most ambitious endeavors.

The Grand Rapids metropolitan area was growing, and with that growth came a larger population and more problems. The extent of travel and use of the automobile was expanding, along with the problems associated with additional traffic and vehicles. Car accidents were increasing, as were their severity. Dr. Lang, along with two colleagues, realized this increasing problem, and set out to address the situation.

Originally the doctors became immediately involved in accident scene first aid by responding to police dispatches. Eventually the physicians established a training program for police and emergency personnel, hence, EMT's, or Emergency Medical Technicians, evolved. The doctors initiated a program that trained students in every facet of emergency first aid. The technicians acquired skills ranging from bandaging a cut finger to applying intravenous fluids and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Their meager program evolved from begging, borrowing and stealing necessary equipment to adequately train the new personnel. The program grew in professionalism, intensity and popularity. No longer was this a "fly by night" first aid program. Public grants helped acquire sophisticated equipment and further the training, which eventually drew interest from all parts of the country. Soon EMT training programs were offered through accredited college programs nation wide. Locally, the programs have evolved and changed, but this first response on site emergency attention began with Dr. Lang's vision.

Even though expectations of leaders are abnormally high, it must be realized we are all human, capable of error.

While every leader like Dr. Lang faces many moments of truth, he was always on the lookout for teachable moments; those moments in time when people's consciousness could be influenced. These are the mistakes and failures that occur and we learn from them. As life continues we become involved in certain aspects that regardless of our endeavors do not meet expectations of others or ourselves. We do, however, face the reality that life is full of trials and tribulations. As with Dr. Lang, there were times of despair, and the need to make a noble struggle. He redefined a setback as a learning experience; "Learn from our mistakes, that's what life is all about" he would say.

Dr. Lang stressed these points to his students, as well as any individual ready and willing to encounter a fascinating conversation with this pioneer and leader.

Some of Dr. Lang's other achievements and personable traits are as follows:

· Founding member of the Thoracic Surgeons Association, 1967-1968.
· Chairman of the OB-GYN Department, Butterworth Hospital, mid 1960's

· Member of the Emergency Room Physicians, 1970 to present.

· Instrumental member in the initiation of the E-Unit program in Kent County.

· Medical Director for the E.M.T. training program in Kent County form 1967 through 1989
· Member of the American College of OB-GYN.

· Member of the Central Association of OB-GYN(this position is limited to only 500 members nationwide).

· Diplomat of the American Board of OB-GYN, from 1965 through present
· (Which is a board certification, residency program).

· Former Member, Board of Directors, Cherry Street Clinic.

· Married to wife Barbara Ann for 56 years.

· Three wonderful children; Judy, Patti, and Greg.

· All around great guy, award extended through this author.

Ramon Lang will be deeply missed and fondly remembered in love by his family, friends and the community he served tirelessly for so many years. May we all be so fortunate to learn and live by his example!

Too Much Going On!!!

2004-11-11T07:30:00.000-05:00

Well for those of you who wondered if I'd ever post anything again (all one of you), the answer is a resounding Yes!. Granted it has been busy as all get out the last couple of months, but there is light at the end of the tunnel.

The house is progressing splendidly. The dry wall is all up and they are mudding & taping as I type this. My adventure in running cable ended a couple weeks ago, the true test postponed until early January when I terminate all the cables and see if this stuff all really works.

I have resolved to try and post at least once a month until we get into the new house, and hopefully more frequently after that.

That's it for this update, short & sweet, just like Dad always taught :)

-- Later

End of Summer

2004-08-30T19:29:00.000-04:00

Well I had to do at least one post in August. While it is the end of Summer (or seems like it anyway) here in Michigan, I really haven't had too much time to enjoy the bit of warm weather we've had of late. That's due to the new house construction. They finally broke ground on 8/13 and the foundation is in ready for back filling and the basement floor slabs. Still on target for a January '05 move in. Keep your fingers crossed that we stay on schedule (and sell our current house!!).

See you in September!

House Update 7/22/04

2004-07-22T11:53:00.000-04:00

Well we signed the contract and made the deposit. If all goes well, the excavation will being within a week or two. It's always exhilarating to go into debt :)

I will attempt to get some pictures of the progress as we move along the 26 week build schedule.

Now I get to focus on designing and building my home automation vision for the house. Not sure what it will evolve into, but it will be cool! I'm thinking about integrating the JDS Stargate system which seems like a really cool product.

I just want the house done so I can start messing with the technology :)

Ramblings of a Busy Guy

2004-06-29T10:38:00.000-04:00

I feel obligated to post something now that I've created this blog. So here it is.

On a slightly more "meaty" note, my wife & I will be building a house soon. We're finally getting the plans locked in and should break ground in the next couple of weeks. I'm sure the construction of this behemoth will be the topic of numerous posts to come over the next 26 weeks or so. Stay tuned if you're so inclined.

Well, I've fulfilled my obligation to post, so now it's back to the daily grind.

Later...

My First Blog

2004-06-23T13:46:00.000-04:00

Wow! I've been in the technology industry for over 20 years and I'm just getting around to creating my first blog. Well, better late than never.

Not really knowing what to do, I did what any self-respecting geek would do, Googled on blog and off I went.

I have no idea how often I'll throw stuff out here, but hey, if your bored, check it out once in a while.

Later....