Time to Take Care of Trees

We had Swingle (Now Save a Tree) out to estimate taking care of our trees this spring.  We've been using the company for over 30 years now.  Swingle has been purchased by another company, but the guys who came to the house to do the estimate (Charlie and James) knew their stuff.  I still didn't know the names of a couple of our pines - now I know we have a Douglas Fir, Blue Spruce, and Austrian Pine (the big one).  We also have a Birch, 2 Ashe trees, a Hawthorn, several aspen, and a an Eastern Rosebud.  Oh, and a Viburnum and a Dogwood (technically shrubs I think) - and one Rhododendron I planted by our Koi pond.  They were very surprised to see how healthy that plant was - I guess they don't do too well in Colorado soil.

We checked on the Rosebud to make sure she wouldn't harm foundations.  She happens to be right between our house and the neighbors, right on the fence line.  She has damaged the fence - I did do some repairs to that.  Charlie assured me the foundations were not in jeopardy as the root system is fairly shallow and if they do run into foundation they will make a left or right turn and not penetrate.  That is awesome, because the tree is so beautiful during the spring months.  (Not shorting the other trees because they all have their special beauty).

You already know the squirrels love to run around in them and live most of the winter on the Hawthorn berries.  I did learn that the Viburnum berries are poisonous - no wonder the squirrels don't snack on them.  So, bottom line, I learned a lot, got a decent estimate and now I can assure my neighbor no damage will come to their foundation.

Have an awesome day - enjoy the SuperBowl if you are so included.   Oh, yah, the tree to the left is the one we had to leave behind when we sold our old house - I really miss her.  We drive by once in a while just to see how she's doing!

Last Day of January 2019

Like all other days, this day is a new one and we only have it once!  I vow to make it an awesome day. Thursdays, as I have said before, are bowling days during the non-golfing winter months.  Jeremiah and I started Kon Mari on the garage yesterday.  We made some good progress.  We've been storying his and his X's stuff for almost a year - and as usual with stuff like this if you haven't used it in a year one has to question if it is really needed. Oh well, it is trips to good will and extra bags of trash on Tuesdays.

We've been getting some nice snows the last few weeks.  We are expecting some more next week.  I'm experiencing a bit of a problem with my snow blower.  The blower part works great but there seems to be an electrical glitch.  I've written the manufacturer about it.  I hope to hear from them today. 

I'm having the arborist come out tomorrow to look at our trees and determine what if anything has to be done this spring.  I'm sure there will be some pruning.

I did some window covering yesterday.  I'm noticing a few of my "mistakes" this morning.  I'm going to do two more this morning.  It is a learning process - I'm excited to get the first perfect one.  I'm trying different levels of privacy in the office so that I can get Caroly exactly what she wants in her office.  Happy wife, happy life!  Where did I hear that one?

Enjoy your moments!  You only get them once!  The good news is there are always new ones to go.  Just don't hang on to the old ones for too long -- you can't get them back! You can only look at the new ones with a different attitude!

Squirrels

Squirrels can be a nuisance, joy, and other descriptive adjectives better not stated in this blog.  I love squirrels!  They are so animated and playful.  Chuck and Charlene (our playful pair) have started playing their annual courting ritual.  Chasing up and down the tree limbs, across the fence top round and round the blue spruce from one end of the back yard to the the other.  I'm not sure who is chasing whom but it is fun to watch the frolicking.

We've been here for 7 years now -- we put corn out in the winter.  This year they got a gingerbread house ( not so sure that was good for them).
 But, they sure did seem to enjoy out, lasted a week or so.  I know this picture arrangement is hinky, but I'm too lazy to get it right this morning.  Enjoy your day - whatever day it happens to be when you view this!

 

Sound, Gadgetry, and Other Things Fun

I do like gadgetry and even some "geeky" stuff.  I have a 30" Vizio in my office, as a matter of fact I'm watching it now.  A few weeks ago the sound started getting hinky.  The speaker(s) started vibrated like they had cracked cones.  Imagine what those might cost to replace.  Instead of replacing them, I started looking at soundbars.  I finally found a reasonably priced one at Walmart - a 32" remote controlled, google assistant integrated, bluetooth enabled, smart - all that for 69 bucks.  I figured I saved myself (finding, ordering, shipping, installing replacement speakers , hours)two or three times that by just getting the soundbar... and it is a great improvement.

What does that have to do with the title of this post?  Well it is a gadget that is sound related and lots of fun.  Now, to get it mounted and placed just right!

Living in the moment yet another day!  (I gotta figure out how to add stickers and gifs to this blog. -- that would be fun!)

Oh, I decided to leave the long form date off the title -- it was a bit redundant and, it was taking up too much space!

Wednesday, January 23rd, 2019 - Maria Kondo and Tidying Up

"Tidying Up" continues, as well as exploring 1 way or daytime privacy window coverings.  Right now I'm working on my office, and Carolyn's office.  But the clean-up is bringing up other sentimental delights.

My old Air Force Master Instructor badge, some of our archery achievements, one of dad's "Member Montezuma, Iowa Fire Department " badge, a tea set that belonged to mom, and much more.  One item brought back a lot of Junior High "stuff" - some good memories, and some not so good memories. 

The pictured wallet was one I made in shop class in, I think 1959.  I really did love leather work.  This one was retired some 15 years ago, but it is still serviceable  if I wished to use it.   I still enjoy leather work from time to time.  About 14 months ago Carolyn asked me to repair a purse strap.  Well, after purchasing a new stitching awl and wax string I was successful -- and that purse strap is still holding tight.  I've found my old hardboard, hammer, tools and, well, almost everything I need to pick the hobby up again.  I'm looking forward to it - once I finish my tidying process in my basement workshop.

I'm also thinking about a better refurbishment of the electronics in my very old Zenith radio.  It is gonna be a wonderfully busy summer!

Enjoy your moments!  Laugh and smile a lot!

Monday, January 21st, 2019 - Another Monday

Mondays are good!  I start my week on Mondays.  I'm sitting here just cogitating the day and looking forward to what it will bring.  What new adventures are just around the corner, what new challenges, what new......?

Whatever the day brings ( or the week) I'm sure there will be a little of everything that will have some significance in life.  I've told this journal that I've started Spring Cleaning.  It is looking like that activity is going to last until summer.  The minute I clear and/or clean something up - it just seems to get cluttered again  I'm going to have to review the concepts of tidying  up!  I highly recommend the book

I've been working on my dresser, closet, office, garage, and basement workroom.  I haven't taken any before and after pictures.  I really don't want to remember the before.  Just know I've made several trips to ARC and Goodwill already.  I'm sure there will be more trips. 

I've also been researching a lot on the proper way to "get rid" of things like metal, old broken small appliances and other things that can't be dropped in the garbage or taken to the thrift stores.  Turns out there is recycling businesses out there for almost anything!  Thankful for those things that could have ended up in a land fill, but now will be repurposed.

Have fun with your week!

Friday, January 18th, 2019 - Games

I'm not much of a socializer, but I do like games.  I like some on-line games like Jackpot Party, Words With Friends, and Fairway Solitaire to name a few.  Only one of those games involves a social aspect.  I also like poker -but, don't get invited to play much.  I do get some of the kids together to play Texas Hold-em from time to time - that is a nice friendly social event.  It just doesn't happen frequently enough.

I like golf, bowling, archery - they are some nice active sports and sometimes involves others and they do provide for some interesting socialization.  Though, sometimes even in these activities I don't tend to socialize very much.  My Myers Briggs type is INFP, that explains some of it.  It isn't that I don't care about others, it is more like I'm at a loss for intersocial thoughts.  Oh, I like fishing too, and darts.

I really like scrabble, bridge (but haven't played for years) - like most card games that involve 4 or more players - pinochle, spades, hearts, canasta, pepper - I used to play a lot of cards, but not much after marriage - my lady just doesn't seem that interested in card games  The good news is that we are now playing scrabble pretty frequently and we do enjoy that time together.  

I keep trying to talk Carolyn into letting me set up an archery target in the basement - I think we would both enjoy that a lot.  Carolyn was very good at archery!

I'm not sure exactly why I'm writing about this - maybe, just maybe it has to do with my lack of socializing!  A lot of times, even when I'm on a team or in a group - I feel alone - I think I'm participating, but perhaps I'm just not totally there and in the moment like I should be.  There is a lot of room for reflection on this subject.  I think sometimes I shut down because sometimes when I do talk - I can be very "blunt" and straight forward - not necessarily appreciated by many people.  I think my dream home is still a two or three room cabin with a deck overlooking a pond - tall trees and remote access... Right now, and for the past 18 months or so, we've had our son and grandson living with us - sometimes that feels crowded!  There is a lot of freedom and personal sanctity that is lost, but I'm thankful we are able to provide when there is a need.  It just isn't the same as when Carolyn and I are alone!  Just not the same.  Part of it, I think is a lack of privacy and freedom. Yet I know they try as hard as the can to keep from being intrusive.  

I think that grown-up kids living with parents or coming back to the nest is much more prevalent than it used to be.... thanks for listening! 

Thursday, January 18th, 2019 - More Early Spring Cleaning and Bowling

Today is a 2 league bowling day.  Mountain Range in the afternoon with Carolyn and Wooden Shoes at night with "the guys".  I'm looking forward to consistency today.  That is the goal.  Hit the mark and make appropriate adjustments when necessary.

Spring cleaning  I know it isn't spring, but I've started early - it is a way to avoid working on things like "taxes" - but I vow to get an early start on that this year too.  My project the last few weeks has included garage and basement hideaway (different than "man cave").  I'm making excellent progress and ARC Thrift stores or Goodwill shall certainly benefit!

I'm also looking for some very specific remote controlled lights - where in the heck are they?  I love lights, I don't know why.  I especially like those battery operated ones that have many modes and/or remote control, or are on for 6 hours then off for 18 -  now I've got some that dance to the sound.  I really like that - how do they make those things so "inexpensive".  I've got what I call "mood lights" on the mantel, the television cut-outs, in the sauna (which I also had to fix - that was a two week project also)!  That sauna door must weigh 200lbs!  It was easier to "adjust" the frame!  I took the easy way out - but now it is working like a charm.

I found these wonderful "MainStay" drawer organizers.  You should see my sock drawer now.  I got all my batteries squared away and my office supplies are now so easy to keep organized.  I think I'm a bit OCD  Some people might say a lot OCD.  I do like order, but chaos doesn't drive me nuts, I just deal with it.  When you have a grandson and son living with you - chaos can be the norm.  They do try though.

On a totally different subject - we just got a factory recall notice on Rosie (our Hyundai Elentra)  She has about 170,000 miles on her and is going strong - kinda like me but I'm a he.  That is something I need to take care of today!

Then there's the kitchen undersink drinking water system! $200 for replacement filters - talk about "sticker Shock"!  Oh well!  Then "of course" there is the $95 to sanitize the drinking water storage tank and the $45 service call.  So, you may ask,  "why didn't you change the filters and get them from Amazon?" Well Amazon didn't have them, whoa - they have everything! NOT!  So I ordered them from what I thought was the OEM for the unit.  Got two years supply for $100 plus shipping. Oops, wrong filters.  Turns out the filters for this system were "proprietary".  I had to get them from the local supplier!  Luckily, the RO filter (Reverse Osmosis) only has to be replaced about every 4-5 years - the pre and post filters every year or 2.  Now I know where to get them - so it will be a "honey do" job next time around.

Wow, a bit wordy this morning.  Have an awesome day.  Smile at a stranger, hug someone - get hugged by someone - it'll do wonders for your attitude!

Monday, January 15, 2019 - "Sticks and Stones"

We all know the old "saw" "Sticks and Stones...." .  Your "Daily Brain Game" is to finish that "saw".  (Which, of course, brings up another question - what is the source of the word "saw" to describe this kinds of witticisms?  Anyhow, back to the point.

The reader probably well knows that the rest of this has a part that says "but words will never hurt me!" Yah, right.  At least for me the words can hurt worse than the "sticks and stones".  Yesterday I had the occasion to experience that again and, I think, perhaps re-discovered the sensitivity my silly brain has in connecting words, their inflection when stated, and the links to past memories that trigger something inside of that tends to "over react" to what is being said.  I read into the words - almost instantaneously- things that are really not there or that are not intended by the sender or fellow communicator. 

On reflection, I can easily call many instances where my reactions caused hurt and/or pain in others - and for that I am truly sorry. If you happen to be reading this you know who you are and I do not need to name names.  I need to figure out a way that when I am in such an exchange of words that I think before I speak -- which in the heat of the moment is not always easy.  For me it is important to note that the feelings that arise as a result include:

• context - what is the situation, i.e  Discussion? Banter? Argument? Emotions?
• the word or words stated
• the inflection of the delivery of the words, i.e. loud, soft, kind, not so kind, rising, lowering
• the body language of the communicator -
• eye contact
• the fellow communicator

I'm sure if I kept listing there would be a longer list.  The incredible things is that the resulting response is instantaneous and sometimes hurtful.  Escalation is inevitable - at least for me, and de-escalation is not easily forthcoming.  

.\

For me, at least on this occasion the overall result is a fairly sleepless night - hence the early hours of this diatribe. But, once again, I'm finding reflection helpful.  This is not a new thing for me - but putting it down in words on paper (or in this case - digital paper) in this detail is new - and feels helpful personally.

I think that conclusion is all a part of "living in the moment".  Please know that if you are one of the persons I have somehow  _________________  (Fill in the blank), I am truly humbled and sorry for what I said at that moment.  Or if it was a good think - well I'm just humbled.

FYI:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saw_(saying)  and there are many other resources for this. Have a truly awesome week!  Finally, from "Family Rules"  "Show Compassion" and "Use Kind Words" - "Know you are loved!"

Suday, January 14th 2019 - Nice Snowfall the Last Few Days

 This one was taken Friday - first real snow this winter.  Picture was taken at Chad and Wendfal's.  The Pinery Golf Course is seene in the background.

The one below was taken out our back window.  It is our KOI pond.  The fish have not eaten since October 31, 20 - that is when the water temp dropped below 51 degrees.  They won't eat again until late March or Early April 2019.  This will be their 8th winter and all 6 of them have done just great.  I got a new thermostatically controlled surface heater to make sure there is always space for gasses and such to escape.  However, this new one seems to keep the pond clear of ice.  Not so sure that is a good thing - but I think everything will be just fine.

So far out of this snow we've only gotten about .5 inches of moisture.  We need a lot more than that.

I'm guessing some kids will be out building snow persons today!  (Is that PC?)  Brings back some memories when I was a kid and when my kids were kids!

Enjoy your winter fun!!!!  There are many memories to be made!

Thursday January 10th, 2019 - A Day of Bowling

Carolyn and I bowl in a Thursday afternoon league - our team (Orange Crush 2) is in a constant battle for 1st place.  I did not bowl well this afternoon, but we did win 3 or 4 points.  We'll see soon where that puts us.

Thursday nights I bowl in a "men's" league at Arapahoe Bowling Center - I bowled really well tonight. I bowled a 640! One of my highest ever series.  The only way I can describe the difference between this afternoon and tonight..... it is like I could "see the line".... sort of like a great putt, you can just see the line and the ball goes in the hole, or in bowling, all the pins fall down for an awesome strike.

Later!

January 9th, 2019 - Christmas Gift Storm PhysiX

If you are a bowler you know what that is.  Carolyn gave me a gift certificate for the Pro Shop at the bowling alley.  The gift was very nice but ended up costing me 125% more than the gift amount - but, I did get a very nice new bowling ball.  It is my first one that did not have a shiny surface. Carolyn and I hit the lanes today so I could check out the new bowling ball.  I think I like it.  I've bowled two games... had a 179 and a 196 - the new ball gets some great pin action.  Carolyn bowled well today too.  In other words we had fun!

I fixed my old weather station using two 1 tbsp plastic measuring spoons and SUGRU - works like a champ and very colorful.  Now my wind speed gizmo works just fine.  It works much better with 3 cups rather than 2!

I'm getting caught up on NCIS LA - finished all available episodes of NCIS NO - waiting to catch up to watch the next season of the original NCIS.  One has to get in sync because of potential crossovers.

No, it isn't a real one.  But I was testing out a new way to add pictures to my blog.... Awesome.  It works really well!

Ya'all have an awesome day! (Of course this applies no matter when this is read!)

Monday, January 7th 2018 - Yada, Yada, Yada

So, I kinda know ,even though I have some followers, there's not much reading going on - or, I may be so boring that no one cares to comment - and that's okay.  I think I really do this for myself anyway. 

It helps me get a few things off my mind that seems to be ever churning with chaos!  Today is going to be a great day - a very busy one as most Monday's seem to be.  We have everything from Bowling to Physical Training. That covers a good part of the alphabet anyway.  Today is BAMF's birthday.  We celebrated at Lava Island.  The kids have so much fun there and Bishop was "King" for the day in the Lego Land Room.  He was excited, calm, sociable, and very polite.

Here's the link to the celebration:  https://photos.app.goo.gl/vLGiKTC7CXx7h8eZA

 He was one happy kid.  Today is his actual birthday so he can enjoy the gifts he got yesterday.

Enjoy your special days!

January 5th, 2019 - BEANiTOS Crunchy Mac and Cheese Snacks

One of Carolyn's good friends introduced her to a product called BEANiTOS Crunchy Mac and Cheese.  They look like Cheetos, but they are baked and they are made out of beans.  When I fist tasted them I was a bit disgusted by the flavor - I detest Mac and Cheese.  However a few weeks after the first trial, I tasted them again - I was hungry and desperate.  They grew on me.  These things are not always easy to buy - they can be hard to find.  The other BEANiTOS chips and such are readily available, but these seem to disappear off the shelf.

Today's emergency - Carolyn ran out of BEANiTOS.  We checked our usual online sources, i.e., Amazon and VitaCost.  We absolutely could not find the 11 oz packages which she likes to get.  Some of the suppliers were charging as much for a 6 oz package as we have paid for the 11 oz package.  Prices for 1 bag of 11 oz size, were as high as 15 bucks -- I can go out to a fairly decent meal at a restaurant for that.

We called some of the local businesses that claimed to have them in stock.  They didn't.  Carolyn made some calls - she found them at BigLots ... we bought them out at a very reasonable price - Carolyn felt like she struck gold!  I'm so happy for her - it made for a really wonderful ending to the afternoon!

Good luck finding your treasures - whatever they are.  (I know, I use far too many hyphens.)

All I had to do was hit "Publish"  -  but no, I had to wait for the picture. So I missed my deadline - it is an artificial one, but .....For some odd reason my phone is no longer updating Google Photos.  Oh well, I can always add the picture later.  Love it... Time to do some troubleshooting!  10:30A.M. 01/06/2019  Problem Fixed.  Wahoo!!

January 4th, 2019 - A Very Busy Day

I can certainly attest that I was NOT bored today.

• Took Carolyn to her Personal Trainer
• Great conversation with my son Chad concerning the Real Estate Business
• Had Rosie's emission check completed.  She passed with flying colors!  (Rosie is our Elantra)
• Shopping trip to Costco - we always go for 1 item and come home with way more than that.  Today the big extra was a new weather station
• Did some garage clean-up.  I usually start spring cleaning way before spring gets here.
• Installed a pond heater in the KOI pond - the old heater lasted almost 6 years.  
• Played Scrabble
• Installed the new weather station.  I got a new one, because I couldn't find replacement parts for the old one- plus the new gizmo's and screen readouts are better.
• Of course I completed my exercises for the day, why would you even question that!
• Welcomed our grandson home from his visit to Glenwood Springs
• Played another game of scrabble ( We just got the game yesterday - somehow I give things away thinking we would never use them again...) So we had to buy a new Scrabble set.  I love playing scrabble.
• Time to relax and watch some TV - or just fall asleep

Oh yah, we were driving down the road and Carolyn spotted this great license plate:

I think that is about it - we do keep busy around here!

Enjoy the first weekend of 2019!

January 3rd, 2019 - At a Loss for Words

Little stuff!  I sometimes let "Little Stuff" get to me.  I guess, in that sense, I could be considered moody.  I can be in the middle of a golf or bowling game and something just gets to me.  I get stuck with an attitude that is not conducive to playing the game well.  I lose focus.  Like I often say, "there is always room for improvement!"

Consistency is definitely not my middle name when it comes to sports.  That may be the biggest difference (among many differences) between us more common amateurs and the professionals and much better amateurs. There is also always the frequency of playing the game and practicing!

This diatribe started because of the quality of my bowling this afternoon.  It wasn't horrible, but it was inconsistent from game to game.  Perhaps a better evening.  We shall see!

Have an awesome week!

January 2nd, 2019

Two days in a row.  That is a record.... many years since I've done that.  I forgot to mention in 2018 memories that I had a hole in one!  That is a golf term for putting the ball in the hole from the tee box (just in case you didn't know)!  That was my first one ever.

Today was a busy day.  I put up this "hanging" shelf in the garage when we moved in.  I used  clothesline wire to attach it to the beams.  After 7 years I decided (for safety sake) that I over-engineer it a bit.  I added safety chains to the support points.  Looks darn good even if I do say so myself.

Carolyn and I played Bananagram tonight.  Jeremiah joined us for a game.  It is a fun, fairly fast paced word game - good to know all your 2 letter words if you want to win this one.

Tomorrow is bowling - afternoon and evening.  We are looking forward to it.  I think my game is coming back.  We dropped out of first place by 2.5 points, but have moved back up and can close the game to tie or lead this week.

It was good to see the grandkids over Christmas and New Year's break.  Brooke graduates from college this year and will move back to Denver after graduation.

As for me, I'm always learning new things.  I bought this Daily Brain Games Calendar to stuff in my stocking.  Day 1 I did fine.  Day 2 I can hardly understand the instructions.  Duh -- I got it!

Counting my blessings and there are so many to count.  Today was full of joyful and restful moments.  Make someone happy when you get the chance!

January 1st, 2019...

First off, I did not make any written New Year's Resolutions.  Life can be enough of a challenge... without setting one's self up for failure on the first day of the year!  I do have something in mind though and I think it is attainable! (Live a healthier year... communicate better with family and friends!) I kinda kicked that one off last evening and yesterday morning. I did have some accomplishments in 2018:

• I lost about 45lbs... and only gained 15 of them back.  Now I'm aware and ... well can get back on track
• We sold our home in Aurora - the one we lived in for more than 36 years - I'll miss that tree, so many memories - Jeremiah was less than 6 months old when we moved to that house!
  
• My golf game improved as did my bowling!
• Stuff that needed fixing around the house got fixed.  I actually undid some of the automated things like lights and fans and put manual switches back in.  Sometimes convenience can be a nuisance.  I am, however, thinking of putting in some "Smart" devices
• We improved the Koi pond - new liner, new retaining wall, deeper and a couple of new pumps.  
• The furnace died a couple of weeks ago. Turned out it was 22 years old - so we replaced it!  That event helped me realize we've lived in this home for 7 years.  Time does fly.
• We had some great parties at the house in 2018 - ending with the Joseph and Margaret Martinez Descendants Annual Christmas Celebration.  At last count we had about 70 guests.  Our children were the hosts, Carolyn and I provided the venue -- it was a wonderful get together!
• We purchased some Echo Shows for the kids that would accept them (the ones who were not too concerned that they were an evil tool of "big brother"....) we enjoyed lots of remote video conversations with Oscar and a few with Kairi.  Carolyn is getting more comfortable with Alexa!
• We had a great vacation with sibs and family at the Cliffs in Ridgedale, Missouri.  Brooke and a couple of her friends were there as well.... It was a great week!
• Carolyn started a new business on the QT or is it DL.  She surprised me with it a couple of months after she started - so Proud of her... she is really sticking with it - the products are awesome and the business plan is excellent!  
• I talked a lot about fishing, but didn't go fishing - this year I'll do some fishing!

Well, enough for now.  It is good to reflect.  2018 was a great year!  2019 will have its surprises and the full range of feelings, emotions, adventures - whatever it brings - live the moments with openness, joy, love -- what ever touches you in the moment.  Smile often hug often... be yourself!

Truly the Digital Age

Grandma and Grandson Digitally Connected

He's more interested in what she's watching on her Chromebook than the game he's playing on his IPad!  

I'm not sure why I am u at 3:30AM blogging to an audience that probably doesn't exist.  I don't put key words that bring on the search happy folks.  I don't even say much that is worth reading.  But, it does get things out of my system.  Perhaps that is why I hit the pages from time to time (should have been hyphenated, maybe)?  It is really a rhetorical question.

It is going to be a fantastic Monday!  The grass is growing well, trees are in bloom, the garden is planted, part of the lawn is reseeded - new stepping flagstones in place, the fish are eating once again, the new pond liner has been purchased (sounds like work), it is recycle day, the squirrels need their corn cobs, so much to do, so many great moments to enjoy!  Enjoy yours, I know I will enjoy mine!

New Window Today

We have to replace the window above the fireplace.  Today is the day!  We are installing an "Infinity from Marvin" replacement windows "Built for Life.  They've started sawing the old one out!  Lifetime Windows got here at 9, exactly when they said they would.  That is a good sign!

I'd call it the 6th major repair since moving in 5 years ago:

1. Drywall and Paint Garage -- an improvement, not a repair
2. New Roof - Hail Damaged
3. Replaced the Water Softener
4. Rebuilt the patio brick by brick
5. Mud pumped the front porch steps and side-walk
6. Winter Storm tree limb and tree clean up
7. Replace the BIG window!

Before Replacement Note the Condensation Between the Panes

During Replacement

After Replacement

4.5 Hours later - Job well done!  Have an awesome week!

A Day Without Words

March in Centennial

This was taken on one of our early morning treks to Trails Recreation Center.  Carolyn and I like to go there to get our morning exercise.  We've taken to walking the Lazy River, hot tubbing, and visiting the steam room.  It really makes for a nice way to start the day.

It is the last day of March, 2018.  This has been an eventful month - first golf outings, last few weeks of bowling leagues, planning trips for the year, contacting the kids, setting up new businesses (both Carolyn and I) , recontacting friends from the past, exploring new opportunities, thinking about new ways to spend my time beginning the spring cleaning process, recommitting to living in the moment!

Today is about whatever today brings my way.  The one thing I have planned is to begin yard and plant bed clean up.  Need to check the Koi Pond again - I saw the fish yesterday.  The water is still too cold to feed them, but I think we are getting close.  I'm thankful that Trenton can come over and help with the clean up.

Happy March 31 to all of you - remember to live your moments, laugh a little, hug often and be joyful!

Excitement

Were you ever so excited about something you wanted to share it with the world?

It isn't really a rhetorical question - but it is just a question to answer to yourself.  Frankly, I'm feeling that way right now!  Do I just blurt it out, keep it to myself, wait to be queried?  These are questions I'm cogitating right now.

Just thinking about it, most of my family and friends might say that I get excited about things way too easily.  There could be some truth in that.  Perhaps I'll take the easy way out - make a list - (I hate lists, but they do serve a purpose). 

These are things I'm currently excited about - not necessarily in any order of importance:

1. Trip to The Cliffs for a sibling and 1 granddaughter visit!
2. Golf
3. Bowling
4. My new "original spinning flagpole" - egad, it really works!
5. Protandim and Protandim Fat Burn
6. My latest blood tests - they are awesome
7. Carolyn's enthusiasm for life, family, and friends
8. Fishing in a couple of weeks with Lana and Mike
9. Making new recopies with the Air Fryer - never tasted better Kale Chips or Roasted Chickpeas - in fact, I made some today
10. Carolyn's new business
11. Spending the day on Table Rock Lake with guide Lyle!
12. Selling the old house!
13. Eating Tofu Ramen Noodle Vegetable soup - really, Carolyn made it today!
14. So much more - Life is soooooo good!

Well, there it is!  Live life to the fullest, be healthy, be considerate of others - enjoy each, and every one of your moments!

Continuous Self-Improvement

Relationships:  Keep and maintain healthy relationships with family and friends
Weight Loss:  Determine healthiest body weight and attain that weight
Bowling:  Continue to improve technique and average
Golf:  Set some goals for improvement
Fishing??? I really want to do more

Not sure why these things got into my mind this morning - it is Valentine's day - my mind should be on romance, not this stuff. I think that even writing these things down ONCE has a lasting effect on the outcome desired.

Not much other than that to say.  Enjoy your moments and put some romance in your day!

WHY?

Why - it is a question we asked a lot when we were very young.  But eventually we quit asking the question - or at least asked it infrequently. Recent endeavors have put the question forefront in my mind again.  I started Weight Watchers a few weeks back.  I received an email that asked the very basic question, "What is your Why?'  I've pondered that question the past few days.

Upon reflection the question is a seriously good one for almost any situation.  When we were studying MRP and Quality Control on my old job, there was the story of Harley Davidson and why it was in real trouble.  One would walk into their store and all of their new "hogs" had a piece of cardboard under the motor, because the store owners did not want oil drippings on the floor.  Something had to change the situation.  So, the engineers or whomever thought this was a problem that needed to be fixed started asking "WHY" is there an oil leak?"  It is all about getting to the "root cause" in this case -- typically it was found that asking the appropriate "why questions' in succession would, in as few as 5 whys, would get you to the root cause.  The question basically saved Harley Davidson or so history tells us.

Obviously the "Why Question" can be used discover, learn, solve problems, and for many other reasons - kids use it a lot just to understand the world around them.  When you are patient and answer each of their whys in the series - the light bulb turns o and the child discovers the why of what they were originally asking!  This does require patience and perseverance!

I have not gotten to the bottom of my particular why yet - but I will get there.

So, why have I started writing more?  Because there is something that niggles at me to do so!
Why is there a niggle? Because my mind is distracted until I do write!
Why does my mind get distracted?  Because I'm not focused on what I am doing?
well... you get the idea.  If I pursued this enough I would eventually get the "root answer" of my initial question!

So, why should you enjoy each and every moment?  Because it may well be the last moment you have - so enjoy and live each and every moment to the fullest.

Bowled a 632 This Afternoon

So did John! I had a good day on the lanes again today.  Carolyn did well also.  I think the coaching is going to work.  I'll set up another appointment. I also ordered a new bowling ball a "Global 900 Honey Badger"!  I guess I did it because John and Bob both have one and they are both really liking that ball. I'm looking forward to our next practice session.

I made good progress today on taxes.  Unusual for me because I tend to wait until the last minute.  Not this year, I'm plugging away steadily.

What else is up? Well, time to start signing up for summer golf leagues - I'm looking forward to that.  The weather has been decent enough, but I'm really concentrating on bowling right now.  I also want to spend more time fishing this year - just not sure what kind of fishing I'll be doing.  I kinda wish I was going to Canada again, but the arrangements seemed a bit tough this time around.  Who knows maybe I can think of a way to make it happen?!

There's just a lot going on right now - having a bit of trouble concentrating on any one thing. Heather and Eric are headed to Blackhawk for a day.... Carolyn still hasn't said what she would like for her birthday!  Don't know exactly what I'm going to do. 

Well - enjoy your moments, each and every one of them!

Not Sure This is Worth a Title

The Morell clan dropped by yesterday.  I made a pretty much vegetarian dinner - not too bad even if I do say so myself.  I think Oscar and Kindle enjoyed themselves.  Meezy joined us for supper.  I actually had the TV turned off for a few hours.  It was nice enough to check out the Koi Pond.  Oscar was playing with the "Big Swing".  All-in-all we had a great time.

Today I start working on TAXES!!!!  Not my favorite thing today, but I feel well organized this year.  The paperwork folder looks bigger than usual.  We also got our property tax bill... holy crap... a shocker, even higher than last year!

Last night was kind of a sleepless night.  I'm not quite sure why.  Oh, by the way, I've been reading some of my LB's Facebook posts hmmmmmmmmmmmmm.  He sure has some strong thoughts, but very well put to words! I'm sure he and I are not in agreement on many things, but we are both - definitely -- entitled!

Thanksgiving 2017


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For some odd reason I'm feeling the need to put a picture in this post - but not sure what picture to put here.  That is one thing I don't like about Google photos - How do I get the photo from there to here?  I know I can provide a link, but, I don't want a link I WANT THE DARNED PICTURE.  I'll see if I can figure that out. (11:52 am Mountain Time - Starting - completed 11:53 am -- that was easy!

We sorely missed the Chad and Wendfal Fahlenkamp family.  It is tough to get a full family picture these days.  Everyone is so busy... Chad, Wendfal, Autumn, and Wolfgang we so missed you!  Maybe next year we can do a non-Thanksgiving Thanksgiving so everyone can make it.

I'm also looking forward to a before and after of me..... I am on a weight loss kick again.  It is the right thing to do for my health and my family.  I'm 15lbs down and feeling great.  I have another 15 to go!  This should also improve my bowling and golf!

Well, I started with nothing to say and look where it has led!  May all your moments be great moments!

Bowling and Other Activities

Two years ago Carolyn and I took up bowling again.  Yesterday we had our first "coaching" session.  We used the coach that works with Ty Bowling Services ( www.tybowlingservices.com ).  What a great experience.  Today we went and practiced the minor changes that he suggested.  As predicted, things might get worse before they get better as we have to develop some new muscle memories.  But it is fun trying to work through those changes.  We are very much looking forward to improved performance.

I'm also looking forward to a new season of golf.  Our men's club has had to move from Fitz as it has been closed for expansion of the Anschutz facilities.  It is a sad thing.  The course had been open for nearly 100 years.  The new course is Meadow Hills.  It will be much more of a challenge for most of us.  My current GHIN handicap is 19.4.  I would like to see that improved this year.  I still have not decided how many times a week I'll be golfing this year.I'm thinking three, maybe four leagues.  Unfortunately Golf season and bowling overlap about 8 weeks!  This results in a log of activity. But, I'm pretty sure I can handle it.  I might have to give up the morning "river walking", steam room, and sauna!  I'll probably have to work out a new recreation budget as well - but, what the heck!

Even though we are not even close to spring yet - I've already embarked on the annual spring cleaning adventure.  We took most of our Christmas stuff, including lights and trees, to Goodwill.  We also cleaned out our closets - a couple of car loads worth.

Carolyn and I have broached the subject of a 2nd car again.  We've only had one car for the last three years.  I use Uber when need be and we are going to start renting when we go on long drive vacations.

The winter has been extremely mild so far -- but, the snowiest months are yet to come. The Koi pond has only been frozen over one time -- I actually saw the fish at the top the other day... It is difficult to resist feeding them - that can't happen 'til the water reaches at least 50 degree Fahrenheit.

Well, that is about it for now., May all your moments be wonderful!

Celebrating our 50th Anniversary

Carolyn and I are celebrating our 50th Anniversary with most of our children and grandchildren.  For those that were not able to make the trip -- you are sorely missed, but are in our minds and hearts. We dearly love and cherish each and every one of you as couples, families, and individuals.  We are so blessed to have you in our lives.

We are sharing 2 wonderful 3 bedroom units for a few days.  It is so good to see cousins, kids, and spouses sharing, playing games and enjoying one another!. I hope to share some pictures - in some ways google has made that harder.

Unfinished Business

Never did finish my last post- interesting.  Sometimes I lose touch with things.  My mind wanders - for that matter- my heart wanders.

Over the past few months I've let diabetes back into my body - high blood sugars are once again creeping in. I'm now taking steps to get that back under control.. Even to the point of monitoring my blood sugar again.

Bowled in the Colorado State Seniors Open today.  Team event was today, tomorrow is a singles and doubles day.  It has been a bit of a struggle this year.  I've had lots of inconsistency - my best has been a 593 series, my worst, a 419 series....  That is a huge range.  Well, that means there is a lot of room for improvement.

Weather (even though we had 4 " of snow the other day) is back up to a balmy 74 degrees.  I'm looking forward to both golfing and bowling Sunday through Thursday.  It should be an awesome week.

Switching subjects - we bought some great pillows from Sobel - Sahara Nights Series.  I really liked them when we stayed at Paradise Point -- the pillows really were luxuriously wonderful!  It was a great purchase

Another switch... it has been a busy week... cleaned garage, replaced toilet in the guest bathroom after desperately trying to repair the old one.... I just decided to give the effort up and replace it.. I've shut down the sprinkler system, but need to get it blown out.  I think, but not sure, the job is scheduled for the 25th of this month.

Living the Dream

I'm living the dream - almost, the only thing that would bring it closer would be having a fishing pond or lake off the back door patio.  (Lana Babes IS living that dream!)  I guess if I really wanted to, though, I could be totally living my dream - but, and there is always a but- my dream is not the same as Carolyn's.  I think after 50 years of blissful marriage I would know what her ultimate dream would be - I don't!

So I think that would be a great topic for conversation on our upcoming adventure.  If only I can remember to bring the topic up.  I've got a very short term memory when it comes to that type of discussion.

Today I play in a senior-inter-club match at Heritage Eagle Bend.  Played there last year too.  I'm looking forward to the match today.  I've put together two decent rounds of golf in two consecutive days- so, I'm very happy.  I played golf with a gentlemen (Mike) yesterday - probably older than I am- wow did he have a fantastic short game and an excellent long game for that matter.  One of the things he did was have a steady routine prior to each shot.  He never ever lost his cool - he was reflective of each shot and then went on to the next - he carries a 12 handicap whereas mine is 19 (or close to it).

I've completed the - for the most part, because nothing is ever really finished or completed - the Koi pond retaining wall.  I'm now starting on finishing the patio project - sealing and such.  It is a busy and very joyful summer!

May all your days be joyful days! They are what you make of them!

Day After The Birthday Celebration

Thanks to all for the kind birthday wishes! 

So, yesterday was my birthday - golf with friends, calls and text messages from the kids, some notes from Lockheed Martin fellow workers, a great bottle of scotch which I have not yet opened (From a dear friend), frozen margaritas, a house full of relatives and some grandkids, nephews and nieces, followed by an open house today! And, notice the larger text - we all know why that is!

I won't say much about anything, but..... our threesome scored 1 first place, 1 third place, and a closest to the pin!!!!!!  Wow, that is a first.

Carolyn is headed for her Tuesday workout with WTF!  She is such a go-getter.

As for me - nothing witty to say!  At least not today.  I just need to get in the habit of writing again.  Love and hugs to all.... smile at someone you don't know today. Say hi.... give some one a break!  Give someone a reason to smile back at you!  Toodles and Roses!

Life in the 50's and 60's - the Century Before This One

I think my sister Lana wrote this - it actually sounds like her words and it is very well stated.  Since I don't copy and paste in Facebook I took it on myself to copy and paste it here... all except for the copy and paste lines.  Lana - very well stated and oh so true!

I grew up in the very small town of Montezuma IA and went to school at Montezuma in Montezuma IA. Iowa. During a time when most everyone treated each other like Family. We went outside to play, we got dirty.... We bought chips, soda & candy and baseball cards from the corner store. We played "Red Light, Green Light", marbles, jacks, Simon Says, "Hide and Seek", Dodge Ball, Red Rover, Baseball, Softball, and Football. We could ride our bikes to the store, or the park, or down a country road and stay all day. We even swam in the creek and the river when we had the chance. Walked home from school and stayed by ourselves. We ate beans & hot dogs, mac and cheese with peanut butter sandwiches at the school cafeteria. We walked or rode a bike everywhere and never worried about safety. We never thought to lock our windows or doors at night. And we had chores to do around the house. And we helped clean off the table after a meal and ate our meals as a family at a table together. We weren't AFRAID OF ANYTHING, 'cept our parents. If you fell down you would just get back up. We challenged each other everywhere...King of the hill. If someone had a fight, that's what it was...a fight. Kids weren't afraid of fake guns when I grew up. Real guns were just a part of life, and we respected them as well as our parents, our teachers, the American flag, the principal AND God. We said the Pledge of Allegiance and the Lord's Prayer everyday we went to school. We left our houses as soon as we could in the morning and right after school till our neighbors would yell out for their children as a reminder to get in the house for the night. If one kid was called for dinner then we all knew to go home. But definitely when the street lights came on.
We watched our mouths around our elders because we knew if we DISRESPECTED any adult there would be a price to pay and we had manners and respect otherwise someone else's parents put you in your place. I would not trade anything for the childhood we had, for we had enough and we had love and all that made us the adults we are today. "Those were the best of Times"
...t with your town if you're proud that you came from a close knit community and will never forget where you came from!!♡....o. Not everything needs to go back to the way they were, but something's really do. Sometimes simple is just better. Hope everyone has an amazing New Year celebration and may 2017 be your best ever!

Untitled

Just happened to think this morning that I have not posted to my blog site for some time... turns out it is about 6 months ago since my last post.  Maybe of been busy playing golf, bowling and, well, lots of other less identifiable things.

I have made some life changes - I now have a part time job!  Yup, I'm working at Saddlerock Golf Course in Aurora - so, I'm sort of a civil servant - although I did discover that golf course in Aurora are self supported and do not use any "tax payer" funding as is provided for the other Aurora Recreational services.  I do enjoy the occasional days of work.

I also stepped down as President of the Fitzsimons Men's Association.  I did that in support of a friend who was forced into an either or situation over a seemingly silly disagreement.  To me it was a mountain made of a mole hill thing.  Never-the-less my friend was pretty much forced into resigning his position on the board.

We have bowling today, couples league, 4 person teams.  My average has improved significantly since the start of this season.  I don't or haven't done as well in the Monday night league, but this Monday I bowled my best series of the year with that league.  Maybe I'm not feeling quite as intimidated any more.  Why the perceived intimidation?  Most of the guys have averages between 190 and 230!  It is not so much intimidation as it is a feeling that I should be doing better.  I think I need to make it more like golf and "compete" against myself to score better!

All I really know is that I am enjoying life and I am a happy person!  Be happy, enjoy all of your moments, we only have so many - !

Not Sure Where to Start

We got our "Urban Farm" - "Square Foot" gardens put in:  https://goo.gl/photos/DvJTWbXgg5PB1aoDA  This is the link just in case you are interested.  Besides this, our beautiful Rhododendrons are in full bloom - I'm not quite sure how to share that picture with you - but, I will figure it out.  Sometimes automation is not so good.  So Google Photos automatically uploads from my phone - but then I don't have the photo on my hard drive.  It seems that what I need to do is share a link when I'd much rather show you a picture here.

It seems I've made a proper mess out of my eggs again.  Damn!  Oh well, they still taste pretty darned good.  Ever since my big computer crash I've been typing manually again.  I did grow to really like Dragon Naturally Speaking.  It spoils one a bit!

I'm now thinking "what is a blog without at least one picture".  I'll fix that!

I took this picture of a picture when we were at the 5 and 10 store in Branson.  I've been looking for a metal model of this airplane for years.  I still haven't found one.  I got a red one for Christmas back in '58 or so.  This airplane is a thing of beauty!

Right now I'm listening to one of Clive Cussler's Oregan Files books.  Makes for a pleasant morning.  

Enjoy your moments I know I am enjoying mine!

When Golf is Cancelled

Darn it -- what's a little rain.  Maybe the course won't allow carts.  I don't use a cart anyway.  Maybe I'll check it out and go play even if league was cancelled.  I'd better check my hourly forecast.  AccuWeather.com  - that's my phone app!  Nope rain ends in 20 minutes, then mostly cloudy the rest of the day.  Doesn't sound all that bad to me.

I'd promised to treat Carolyn to a breakfast burrito at Tin Cup II.  Well it'll have to be LePeeps instead.  She likes LePeeps  (www.lepeep.com)and they do make a really good breakfast -- although last time I was disappointed with their Peasant Potatoes.  I'll have to come up with a new plan for the activities of the day.

I think it will include some weeding and gardening, garage cleaning, bookkeeping, ancestry and photo stuff and a lot of "House".  I didn't think I'd like that show, but I like that show so I'm watching it from the pilot to the end.  I've also picked up on "BOSCH" - a show about a an honest cop that has a true set of values that he actually lives by - whatever the consequences.  Hayfever, the worst in years! OMG I'm sneezing all the time.

I am trying a new remedy called AllerFlex - so far so good but it seems to take a bit longer to kick in than that under the tongue Claritan!

The picture is from Eunice's garden.  Beautiful, delicate poppy plants. The blossoms are huge. The snowball bush in the background is bountiful as well.

I think we are ready to head for breakfast.  Enjoy your moments, I know that we surely enjoy each and every one of ours!!

Family Stuff

It is the season of continuations graduations, parties, weddings, fishing trips and discovery.  For instance I discovered that blogging is more for me than journaling (I guess this is a new adjective because the dictionary doesn't recognize the word - I love the "add to dictionary" function).  There goes another misspelled word!

If you want a reason for liking blogging better - well simply that it is better backed up than my journal!  A computer crash proved that to me.

I've started working on family again.  Making progress by documenting hand written family records and of course, Ancestry.com . I must, of course, watch the membership so I don't get carried away. As I've been going through thousands of photos I've discovered hundreds of wonderful family stories and a few adventures of my own tat I had forgotten.  It has been a blessing to share those memories with family and a blessing to discover some of the not so rich family background, but very interesting to me anyway.  We can't all come from kings and Pharaohs.

My next task with photos is to get them in date order - at least as close as possible.  It is very much like being a detective.  By using context, places lived, relative ages and such one can get a fairly accurate timeline.    Bottom line it keeps me busy and out of Carolyn's hair between rounds of golf!

Have a great day, enjoy your moments.  Happy Birthday John, Steve, and so many others - have awesome moments on your very special day!

On Journaling or Blogging Once Again

It seems I have not really advanced that much on this subject.  I'm not very consistent in either effort.  I think, in the final analysis that both have their pros and cons.  Journaling is definitely the choice if you want to keep your thoughts private.  Blogging is the chance if you feel you have something to contribute socially - even something that you think might be of value to others.  So, I guess I'll continue to do both even if I do them both infrequently.

Well, we've had the two significant snowfalls that I predicted we would have - I told John, a couple of months ago that we had two more big snowfalls before spring really started in earnest.  Unfortunately this last one was big enough that the golf courses are taking awhile to recover - tree damage cleanup and such - so, I'm letting my beard and hair grow until I get back out on the golf course again.

I've decided to join several leagues this year and a senior inter-club group.  Bottom line I hope to play competitive (for the fun of it) golf on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.  That's a lot of golf, but it should be a lot of fun.  Hey, maybe I should put a link here to Google Photos of some of the Myrtle Beach outings!  We did play some really beautiful and challenging courses there.

Lots of birthdays this month - so, it is a month of reflection and celebration.  I'm learning a bit of both by going through some 28,000 photos and cataloging them and putting them in albums and such.  Google+ Photos is helping me do that.  I've got so much duplication due to moving files around and backing them up at different times that it really is a chore - but also very reflective.  I'm enjoying and being challenged almost every moment!

To all my friends out there - this project has also given me the opportunity to think about and in some cases prompted me to make renewed contact - even if just through the social media.

Be joyful, enjoy all your moments and have a truly awesome day!

Journal or Blog or Both - From an Absentee of 5 Months

Interesting.  I'm reading a new book 52 Small Changes for the Mind .  So, it has started me journaling.  Journaling is much different than blogging - much.  One is for public consumption, maybe because I think I have something of value to offer - whereas journaling is private, totally private and for reflecting.  It is, at least for me, a bit of a personal discovery.

Person of Interest is an excellent show.  Makes one think about the benefits and, well, drawbacks of technology and government "oversight".

I'm golfing better!  Carolyn and I are bowling!

Lesson 4 - Practice, Practice, Practice - but, Purposeful Practice!

Did a lot of chipping today. This is going to be the most improved part of my game!  Purposeful practice with a passion! I tend to be too mechanical during one on one.  I think it is the "Kevin" effect.  Even at 70 one tries to please their instructor. WTF for reals!  I'm paying him! I got to learn to please myself and build on the clues that he gives me.    I am learning to hit draws an finds and I'm getting a lot better at playing the course not just swinging the club and hoping to get down in a reasonable number of strokes.  I did play 9 holes with only a 7 iron today - the purpose of the exercise was to really get to know the club and what I could do with it!  A very interesting experience, but only when I started to use my noggin'!

On number 10 I didn't touch the fairway the first two shots - with a freakin' 7 iron.  I know why - I still made a 6. 2 hook shoots 2 punch shots and 2 "putts".  On 11 - Nasty hook off the tee - experimented with a lob shot using the 7 iron - interesting but very ineffective (I did better the second time I tried that - on number 15.  A chip shot and a putt for a 5.  Number 12 - another nasty hook off the tee - followed by two low punch shots and 2 putts for a 5.  So I'm 16 after three hours. Number 13 - straight down th middle - on in two and two putts for a 4 - yup, a par!. (20)  Number 14 pushed the tee shot to the right, chipped on and 2 putt for a 4 (24).  Number 15, a par 5 - I finally started thinking - challenging myself to think and to choose a shot, not just swing the club.  A draw off the tee - successful.  A fade down the middle, successful.  I fade just short of the green successful, 1 Chip and 2 putts for a 6 (30). Number 16 is a slight dog leg to the left - teed off with a draw shot - followed by a straight shot, a chip and 2 putts for a 5 - (35).  Number 17 a slight draw right down the middle, a straight shot, a punch, a chip, and putt for a 5 - 40!  Number 18 - on in 4 and 2 putts for a 6 - for a 46 and all I had was a 7 iron. What did I learn?

1. Use my head, survey the landscape, pick a target, choose a shot, make two practice swings - put the ball in the way - hit the ground!
2. Celebrate the good shots and learn from the shot that wasn't quite so good!
3. Move on to the next shot!
4. Learn how to use my clubs
5. Its good to be in the fairway most of the time!

Be in the moment - but, that is the way to be all the time!  Have a great day!

Lesson 2 - Practice time! On The Way to A More Consistent and Better Round of Golf!

Today was a practice day.  The biggest lesson I learned is that practice needs to be real - not just putting, chipping, swing clubs.  It needs to be as real as the round of golf and the situatios on the golf course.  On the putting green - use my marker, my alignment, my stroke!  On my follow through - do not lose balance - I am losing balance at this time and kinda falling backwards! I think it is mostly because I'm trying to "finish high" -

I've been given a new "practice" if follow through that should help this.  So, I need to play this way!  I need to limit my follow through - I can practice this, and I can practice my chipping at home - !

I see my mental game improving.  I focus better from shot to shot!  I am starting to "play the course" rather than just swinging at a ball!

Golf is such a great game. A really great game.  8 lessons to go!  I'm so looking forward to each day I get to play golf!  Next up Coyote Creek.... Woohoo!

Day 1 - Golf With Kevin Carlson

So, day one 1 (Friday the 2nd) was an interesting/introductory getting to know your game day.  We played 9 holes.  I was very nervous the first three and had a double, a triple, and a double bogey in that order.  Kevin asked questions and I looked at some excuses... like I always start of slow, etc.  That's the bad news, the good news is I ended up with a 42 on the back 9 of Fitz - best I've done this year.  I birdied both par 5's and on of the par 4's.  My concentration improved.  Well, for me, 80 % of the game is between my ears.

Kevin had an interesting way of tracking my game... scoring zones, shots to hole out within the scoring zone, putts made or missed from 4'.  I'm going to go practice tomorrow.  I've got a neat practice card and I'm going to use it.  I'm serious about improving my game!  I LOVE IT!  Gotta get some card stock to print some of the special score cards and practice plans!  Hey, have a great weekend.  Be in the moment - really important on the golf course.  Let go of the last shot - good or bad!

Golf - I Love It (!

I think I love the game because it is all about individual self-improvement.  I've tried over the past few years to do just that - shooting in the 110-120 several years back to shooting in the high 80's to low 90's  and the occasional high 90's the past couple of years.  I think it is time to take the next step.  I'd like to shoot my age before I hit 75, that gives me five years!  No sweat.

To that end I'm going to take some serious lessons over the next 12 weeks.  I'm really looking forward to it.  I believe that I am a good golfer.  I think I can be an excellent golfer. I've signed on with Kevin Carlson (Fitzsimons club Pro).  I start tomorrow morning.  I had to rearrange some personal training, but along with WTF  (who I think has helped improve my game) some great golf lessons should really help.  I think Kevin will help me with better practice and better course management.  These are a couple of things I definitely need to improve - besides better focus and consistency! Kevin  ( kevincarlsongolf.com ) "guarantees" a 10 stroke improvement - wow - that would put me in the high 70's to mid 80's on a more consistent basis.    I'm there. 

It is important for me to "be in the moment" and that is where I am!

Had my first ever eagle the other day.  The 1st whole at Green Valley Ranch Golf Club - a par 4.  What a great feeling!.  I know I can look forward to many more pars and even more birdies.  Wahoo.  I'm really psyched!

Windows 10 - A-

Well, we got in on the Windows 10 Upgrade. It is faster than any f the previous releases - leaps and bounds faster. The download and install were easier. So far I've only got one problem -- My ASUS Smart Gesture does not work and I have a couple of missing "dll"s. I've been working on the Smart Gesture issue for a couple of days and I've had nothing but frustration. When you want to be self reliant, "who yah gonna call?" The truth is I've done some web searches but I've made no phone calls so far. I really miss the ability just to scroll down or up the page or magnify from my Touchpad. A few more days of this will drive me nuts. Other than that, so far, so good! Enjoy your moments - each and every one of them! Have a great day.

Afternote:  7:54AM - I got it fixed.  Went to ASUS.com . They have a new driver for Windows 10.  Uninstalled the old one, installed the new app and driver - works like a charm... Only one issue left - Screen background doesn't always stay on.

Cooking and Other Stuff

I think I've discovered yet another joy - cooking.  Carolyn and I are enjoying exploring new recipes and new foods.  We are very successful at some and not so successful at others  but at least we are exploring the art of seasoning and enjoying new tastes.

I've been enjoying all the "chef" shows for the last couple of years and even trying out some of the dishes these "master chefs" cook.  (I also still love chocolate and merlot! - so we try and work that into some of our recipes.)

But, most importantly cooking is fun -- even better is the eating of what you have given so much of yourself in cooking!  Even better yet is when someone says "that was great, got any more?"!  I don't know why I chose this subject today, perhaps because I'm watching a cooking show right now.    Master chefs on the rim of the Grand Canyon.

On another note, my sister Sharon called me today and wished me a happy birthday!  We all get  busy and it is so nice to be remembered on these special occasions.

We played golf today at Saddleback in Firestone.  What a beautiful morning!  I shot an 89 - I was happy with that.  Phone is ringing.  I don't answer the phone (my land line) - I don't even know why we have it any more.  I think I'll talk to Carolyn again and see if we can't get rid of it.  There are just way too many "crap" calls!  Calls that waste time and energy and just wish you didn't have a phone of any kind.  CAROLYN!!!!!!!

Enjoying a glass of Merlot - now comes the test - does it lead to a gout attack.  I do love my wine - and I hope it doesn't. I'll know in less than 24 hours.  I'd love some nuts right now!  (maybe it is the salt I crave!)  To all my friends out there - enjoy your moments, each one of them is special!