Just thinking...

I was just sitting here thinking that it's the last day of the year. The weather report says we might get snow flurries. I think that would be appropriate.

I'm not going to go through all the things that have happened this year as many people do when they write about the last day of the year. As I wrote on Friday, I prefer to look ahead. But, since I wrote my blog Friday, I have been observing things and they make me wonder.

I've always tried to be a good parent and husband. I've always felt that those were the most important jobs to have.  Yet, I still have 3 of my children living with me. One, will probably always be with us because of no fault of his own. We are glad to have him. Although the other two are welcome, the way the act towards each other and those around them worries me.

Without going into specifics, let me say that some of the things that come out of my children's mouths are appalling. Did they learn to relate to each other like this from me? My goodness! I hope not. But, I can't get away from the feeling that they are still competing for my attention. at the ages of 24 and 26 you would think that problem would have passed.

For the sake of argument, let's just say that I am not the problem. I think I raised my children with love and a caring attitude towards their fellow man. but, the way they speak still has me perplexed. Then I turn on the television. It's just mind boggling what passes as entertainment on daytime television today.

Entire programs devoted to determining who abused what child, when and how. Domestic violence and abuses of women that I would never have imagined in this day of an enlightened society. Violence and abuse in every place you look.

I few months ago, I was in the grocery store with my daughter. We were behind a couple who throughout the store were arguing about who could "make groceries" better. Now, trying to translate the horrible grammar, I came to the conclusion that they were referring to who was a better shopper. But, no matter. Their conversation nearly broke out into physical violence, right in the store.

People are rude and snipe at others all the time. I was in the commissary one day, a woman slammed into me on my left side. FYI, that's the side I am blind on. She slammed into me and then barked "Ya know, you can get out of my way! Are you blind?" My daughter looked at her and said: "Yes, he is." The rude woman wandered off mumbling something. I am the one who apologized. I'm sorry I am taking up space on her planet. (Not what I said...How I felt.)

What happened to the rule: "If you have nothing nice to say, say nothing." ?

Well, at least I have sight in one eye. It could be worse.

I was feeling pretty good yesterday. I went to physical therapy for my shoulder. I've been feeling really good about my progress. That is, until yesterday. They've started me on some new exercises. Pain has now become my friend.  It doesn't last long, just mostly while I am working  but I can tell you this; I have obviously not made all the progress that I thought I had. The therapy folks seem pleased with my progress but then, they don't have to feel what I am feeling.

Through it all, I try and remain positive. Life is not a sprint, it's a marathon. I won't give up and I've worked through pain before. Next week, I have surgery on my vocal cord... again. They are going to try a new procedure. I hope this time I get my voice back. I've been in the Naval Hospital so often, they should name a bed after me!

Keeping positive.

I'll deal with today and worry about next week, next week. Today, my wife and I are going to run some errands together and if we are lucky, get to go have lunch together. No children.  Certainly, that way there won't be any arguments.

I'll close with a Happy New Year's wish for you all. May the New Year bring you happiness, peace and good health.

As Always...

What are your limits?

I grew up with a handicap. Because of this, I was constantly told that I could not do things. I never listened. I think, the only thing I never did was go on a ski trip. I went to a school that held regular ski trips in the winter. My older brother used to go all the time. I remember asking my mother if I could go and I received a resounding "NO!". I was told that I did not have the "coordination" to ski.

Of course I was disappointed. But, those were the times we lived in. I'm sure my mother had my best interest at heart. That incident was one of the last times I listened to "You can't do that." I just refused to let life limit me.

My parents did not think I could learn to ride a bicycle. Once again, that pesky coordination problem. Well, I had a bike with training wheels. One day when I was around 11 years old, our neighbor saw me with the bike and training wheels. I'll never forget the conversation that ensued.

Mr. W: Bobby, how old are you? (Heavy German accent)
Me: 11 (Rather sheepishly)
Mr. W: You can not ride a bicycle without those silly training wheels?
Me: No, sir. My mom says I need to use them.
Mr. W: Come with ME!

He proceeded to take me to his garage and grabbed a wrench. He removed the training wheels and informed me that he was going to teach me how to ride this bike without the silly training wheels. He asked me how I expected to learn to do anything if I didn't try.

Now this is an interesting question that stayed with me for the rest of my life. How can you learn if you don't try?

As I've said, I've been told I can't, all my life. Military school, U. S. Navy, various schools. It didn't matter. I was told that I was either limited by physical disability or intellectual deficiency.

Well, the fact is, I never let anything hold me back. I may not have won the race. I may not have made the varsity team but, I tried. By the way, I did earn a varsity letter in school. I did make it in the Navy and the fact that I write this daily would negate the intellectual deficiency argument.

I have a friend who's son is Autistic. Not only did he achieve the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America but last year, his father took him to college! No limits.

My son is autistic. Every adult who knows him has the same thing to say. They all tell me that he is a wonderful person and a hard worker. My son works very hard to fit in. He struggles with the social demands that autism make so difficult but he never gives up.

My son-in-law was wounded in Iraq. An IED has left him in constant pain. He provides for his family and doesn't take no for an answer.

Look around you. There are inspirational people all around us. They don't give up. They don't quit.

My oldest daughter was injured during Marine Corps "Boot Camp". Even when she was recommended for the medical reconditioning platoon, she begged her Senior Drill Instructor to allow her to remain with her platoon and finish training. On family day, I thanked the Senior Drill Instructor for allowing my daughter to stay with the platoon. She told me that it was really my daughter's attitude that made the decision for her. Even in pain, she never gave up.

No matter how difficult life becomes. No matter what road blocks are placed in our way, we can never give up.

My friends, I just want to remind you that out in the world, someone is having a worse day than you. No matter how bad things may seem, if you don't give up, if you keep pushing, if you keep trying, eventually you will reach your goal.

Remember this: You don't have to win the race. You just have to do your best. If you can honestly say you've done your best, you've won. The only person you have to impress is, you.

As Always...

It's Friday! (The last of the year)

Well, my friends; it's the final Friday of 2013. If I were writing for some news organization, I'm sure I would be asked to write some type of year in review article. But, this is not a news article, it's just my blog and I am told that since it's mine, I can write what I please. I promise, I will try and make it enjoyable to you all.

I've got Benny Goodman playing Mozart with the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Thanks iTunes. As regular readers know, I love music. i've always been interested in the great jazz/swing artists of the 1930s-'60s. Sure, there are great jazz artists after that era but, then you start getting into a different style of music altogether.

One of my favorite movies is "The Benny Goodman Story" with Steve Allen in the title role and Donna Reed as his love interest. At one point, in order to prove that he is a "real" musician and can play "real" music, Benny agrees to attend a "Music Night" and plays Mozart's Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra in A major. Actually, the title is longer but my point is, he was flawless. By the way, all the clarinet music (except when Benny was learning) in the movie was actually played by Benny Goodman.

It's a beautiful piece of music and you would never guess that a Jazz Musician was playing it. A wonderful surprise. Life is full of wonderful surprises. sometimes they are everyday things like the smile from a child or kiss from someone you love. A card in the mail or an unexpected phone call or an impromptu slice of home made cake. All these things are surprises and they are the stuff that makes life interesting and fun.

Yes, sometimes, life's surprises can be disconcerting but, we get through the inconvenience. Imagine for a moment how boring life would be if it was the same routine day in and day out. There are no surprises and everything is predictable. I wouldn't have to write this blog but once and it would only be a few lines long.

It might go something like this:

Well, it's time for another blog. It's 11:30 AM and that is the assigned time for writing. Fortunately, the blog is the same as yesterday and the day before and the day before that. This is the 84th blog I have written and all I do is copy and paste the entire thing. No surprises here.

What would be the fun in that? You wouldn't hear anything about my likes or dislikes. Nothing about my children or grandchildren. Forget about the amazing foods we cook. We don't cook them in a world that is completely planned out.

For the good of all of us, that is not how life is. We are able to choose from the buffet that we call life and sample everything at our leisure. This I write as I take a sip of my Chocolate Doughnut flavored coffee!

My son just asked me what we should have for dinner tonight. I have no idea. It's pretty cold out and I would like something warm in my tummy. Maybe we will make some soup.

So, there are no more Fridays left in 2013 and just 4 more days and it will be a new year. Let's not dwel on what has gone on in the past year. Let's look at the new year as an opportunity for new experiences. 365 chances to make a new friend a day. 365 chances to learn something new each day. The new year means we have an entire year to love and experience life as it was meant to be experienced.

Whatever activity you choose, I hope it is something that will bring a little joy and happiness to you and everyone in your small corner of the world.

When my daughter was in New Jersey earlier this year, she admonished me to do something positive "today". Here's a news flash for the non-believers; I do something positive each and every day. I just hope that I don't just benefit myself but am a positive influence on all those around me.

Benny Goodman was a man who came from a simple working background but, through his work and decades after his death, his work is enjoyed and brings his positive spirit to those who enjoy his music. If only the same could be said about all of us.

As Always...

It's Boxing Day!

My oh my how time flies. Another Christmas has passed. Presents have been opened and children of all ages are content. Some are taking naps while others play with their new toys.

My Granddaughter received a dolly and just loves her. I think that is her favorite gift. At 16 months old, the boxes seem to hold a great fascination for her. I think one of the best parts of yesterday was when she was given a rather large box and not knowing what to do with it, she climbed up and sat on it! She was very proud of herself and we were all thrilled.

Everyone seemed to be pleased with the gifts that they received. For that, I am very happy. I received a new pair of slip on sneakers. Exactly what I wanted. My wife gave me the latest and greatest cell phone.  A Galaxy Note 3. That indeed was a coveted item. I wouldn't buy such an extravagance for myself and am thrilled that my dear wife got it for me. Many people complain that the screen on this particular phone is to large but, being blind in one eye and afflicted with very poor vision in the other eye makes the larger screen ideal for me.

My oldest daughter and her little family came over in the morning. They brought cinnamon rolls and along with the pancakes and bacon that we made, a wonderful family breakfast feast was had. There's something about having breakfast while the children play (or just one grandchild) that says Christmas to me.

Our dinner of Rare "Who" roast beast with mashed potatoes and creamed spinach was delicious. The home made dinner rolls provided by my youngest daughter really were something special. She used a recipe that came with the Kitchen Aid mixer that she and my wife share as an early Christmas present.  We were all so full, there was no room for desert. I guess we will get to sample the Carrot cake tonight.

Of course, during all this celebration; we took a moment to remember all those who could not be with family because of Duty. As I always do, I remember those who's sacrifice was so great that they have moved on to that mystery of life everlasting. We miss them all.

But, through it all we love each other and our friends. That is really what this celebration is all about. It really doesn't matter what your faith is. What matters is to recognize that this is a season of love for all mankind. I sure wish that it was that easy.

I just watched a movie about the planning of D-day. If you go beyond the politics and the personalities, you can see the amazing military leaders of the time. I always come away with the same thought that maybe one day, we will not need people like those leaders again. but, for now, we are still embroiled in conflicts abroad and military leadership is sadly still required.

But, I digress. the subject of the day is "boxing" day. This day is traditionally a day off for servants and more than that, the masters of the household would serve them! Of course, there are no servants in my house, unless you count me. I guess I would be the butler. But, no matter. We have no gifts to exchange or box up and dinner is planned. It is indeed a day of relaxation.

So, I am going to sit here at home, enjoy my cup of Chocolate Doughnut Coffee and relax. My youngest is playing with her "New" phone. (She got my old one. I have to set up my wife's "new" phone. She is getting my daughter's previously owned iPhone. We waste nothing in our house.

If I could have had one wish for this Christmas, it would have been that all of you could have come here to visit me and we could have had a wonderful great party. Alas, that was not to be so, you will all have to settle for my continued best wishes for health and prosperity and Happiness.

As Always...

Twas the Night Before Christmas...

So, my friends, the big night has arrived. For children and adults alike, a night of wonder is upon us. This is the best part of the modern Christmas celebration.

This evening, most children will be excited to go to bed. The ritual of Christmas has begun. For many families, that ritual will begin with a Church service and a wonderful family meal. After the meal, children will be put to bed. This was always my favorite time.

Putting my children to bed on Christmas eve was always my privilege. Many of you know how dedicated I am to my children, even though they are all grown. Of course, I am absolutely over the moon for my little Granddaughter too. In an effort to carry on a family tradition, I gave a copy of "A visit by St. Nicholas" by Clement Clarke Moore to my daughter and her husband so that they could read it to their daughter on Christmas eve at bed time; just as I did for my daughter (and all the kids) when they were small.

I loved it when the children would come running out of their rooms at bed time. They would be all scrubbed clean and in their special Christmas Jammies. Christmas eve was the only night of the year that the children would be willing and almost in a hurry to get to bed.  I would have to read the poem at least twice because of the ages of the kids but the scene was always the same.

The child in question would run into the room and jump up onto the bed. I would pull the covers up to the little one's chin and tuck my victim in. The teddy bear would be found and placed in the proper position and I would get on the bed with the child. My little angel would snuggle up to me and the smile and bright eyes on that little face would make you swear that you are looking at the face of a real Angel straight from Heaven.

"OK, Read the story!" the child would beg and we would begin.

As I went through the story, I would use various voices for the different characters. If I ever forgot and used just my own voice, I would be called to task and ordered to start again. Sometimes, I would screw up the story just to be told to start over on purpose. I wanted to draw out this most special time of the evening on this special night.

Of course, we all know how the poem ends. I would finish with a hearty wave and a "Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night."

With that ending, my little one would give one last snuggle into the bed. Sleep was not far off. I kiss from Daddy and a whispered "I Love you the most." The light was turned off and the last child was asleep for the night.

Now, it was time for the real work to begin. We would wait an hour or so to make sure that the children were well and truly asleep and my wife and I would start to take out the hidden treasures. Most were wrapped but there were always a few that needed assembly. It usually took a good couple of hours to get everything done but, finally it was done. The gifts were neatly arranged under the tree.

Which one of us was going to stay up and stand the security watch over this treasure trove of presents for the children? My wife would take the first watch and I would take the second. The children would be up around 5 and we both needed some sleep before they got up to attack the gifts.

My oldest son especially was most surprised by the scene in the living room on Christmas morning. He would stand in the middle of the room with his mouth open in shocked surprise and exclaim; "Santa was here! He really came!" It was priceless.

After the presents were opened, we would have a breakfast and everyone would take a nap. Once we got up again, the day could begin. A great Christmas feast had to be prepared and when we were over seas, there were always guests from the ship or barracks to feed. We always had those who were away from their families over on holidays. We would even give them a small token type gift. Maybe a paperback book or some writing paper or a nice pen. We just wanted to share a little Christmas with some who otherwise would have very little.

This year, things will be much the same as years past. We no longer have to stand the watch for the security of the gifts but, I'm sure we will be up as early as ever. We will be having a nice dinner and at some time during the day, my oldest, her husband and my little granddaughter will come to visit. The little one has lots of gifts to open.

Christmas day promises to be busy and filled with festivities. Through it all, we will remember those who can not be home with their families because of duty. Whether they are standing a post on land, flying a post in the air or at sea, they are all sacrificing to keep us free and ensure that we may celebrate our Christmas in the way we care to.

If I may borrow a line from Charles Dickens: "God Bless us, Everyone!"

A very Merry Christmas to you all.

As Always...

They gotta make ya smile!

Well, it's the eve of Christmas Eve or Christmas Eve, Eve; as my kids used to say. It still makes me smile. Friends, that brings us right to the subject of today's blog: Kids and smiles.

I've looked through my social media and found all sorts of pictures of the holidays. Some are of scenery, others of seascapes. By far, the most breathtaking, in my opinion are the pictures with kids. Our children and Grandchildren have a way of bringing the best out of all of us.

Speaking for myself, alone: seeing my children getting along as adults warms my heart.  I guess it's the proximity to Christmas and even as adults they are trying to curry favor with the Saints but, they always seem to get along better after the 15th of December. So, not looking a gift horse in the mouth, I am happy with 10 days or so of peace throughout the kingdom.

My oldest daughter and her husband and daughter live in their own home, of course. They are apart from us and have started their own Kingdom. Fortunately, they are not far removed from us and we can visit as often as we care to. Now they have a "secret weapon" that forever brings smiles from deep within, my little Granddaughter.

She is such a cutie pie. I really do adore that little girl. It's just amazing how quickly grandchildren can find that special spot within us. They tug on those heart strings and that's the end of the ball game. We are theirs. They can ask anything of us and we will move heaven and earth to make it happen.

I have a good friend who lives in Texas. She has been a grandparent for around 5 years. A few years ago, she told me that her Grandson called her and told her that he wanted french fries. She drove 45 minutes to deliver hot, fresh fries to her little Grandson. Now, mind you, I was not a grandparent at the time. I laughed at the story but, thought my friend was crazy. I really thought that she had lost her mind.  I've been a Grandfather for 16 months. I get it completely! If my little granddaughter called me and wanted something that I could provide, I'd drive 5 hours if required to give it to her! It's all about the kids.

I have another friend who has a 3 year old Granddaughter. My friend is just over the moon when she is with that child. I don't blame her at all. Let's forget about the fact that the child is an angel on this earth. She is just a beautiful little girl. She is happy and she is the light of her Grammies' life. They had been separated for a couple of months and just reunited for the holidays. My friend posted a picture of the two of them. Happiness just doesn't cover it. Grandmother and child look so thrilled to be together. You can see it in their eyes. It warms my heart.

I write the other day that Christmas is simply about Love. What is a better expression of Love than our Children and Grandchildren? If you are with your children this Christmas, be glad and count your blessings. If you can not be with your children this Christmas, keep them in your heart. The one constant we must always have in life is the love of our children. There is not really much else.

As Always...


There is still time to donate to Toys for Tots.

Cheer Up.

It's been a difficult week here in our house. My wife's uncle died on Sunday and she was away in New Jersey all week. She left last Thursday evening and got home early this morning. That's why this blog is a little late in the day. I sure did miss my dear wife.

As many of you know, we have been together for more than 32 years. To many this seems unusual. I don't know if it is all that unusual in this day but it is what we both envisioned when we stood in front of that Judge in Pensacola, Florida way back in the day. We had both agreed that our marriage was not a disposable thing but rather like a garden that we had to tend and take care of. To be sure, we have had our difficult moments but through it all, we always had each other. Anyway, I missed her terribly and although my children and granddaughter are near I was very lonely.  I'm glad she is home again.

The important thing that my wife did this week was be there for her Dad. I haven't talked much about my Father-in-law here. I love him as if he were my father. He is a true American hero who; as a United States Marine. fought in the Korean war and survived Chosin.  His brother's sudden death was very difficult for him and I am very glad that she was able to be there in his time of need.

So, things are back to "Normal" here now. My wife is over at my oldest daughter's home taking care of her and the little one. It seems that my daughter and granddaughter are both sick! We all know that Mommas are not allowed to get sick. Her husband was going to take the day off of work but my wife insisted that she go over and take care of the sick children. This way, son-in-law doesn't miss work and screw up holiday leave plans. I agree. No matter how old you are, it's usually better to have your Mom take care of you when you are sick. (There are some exceptions).

So, I'm spending the rest of the day listening to music. Music cheers me up and helps me relax. Music gets rid of all of my worries. Today, I am listening to The Eagles. They have to be one of my favorite bands. They seem to be timeless; in my opinion.

When my oldest daughter was in High School, I used to drive her to school every day. She was in a "Magnet" program and was in an out of zone school. It was just easier to drive her to school in the morning. Besides, I enjoy spending time with my kids. Anyway, on with the story.

We were listening to the radio as was our habit.  My daughter got all excited and began to tell me about this great "New" band that she heard. They just released a song called "Love will keep us alive". As I smiled, I asked, in mock surprise; what the name of this "great new" band was. My daughter announced with great excitement in her voice "The Eagles!!"

Fortunately, when she got to this "punch line" we were at a red light. I started laughing so hard that if we had been moving, we would have had an accident. My daughter was perplexed. In her mind, she had just given me some very important and cool information.

After I calmed down and the car was moving again, I calmly told my darling child that the Eagles had been around since the 1970's and I had been listening to them for most of the intervening 30 years. There is nothing "New" about the band.

My very serious daughter was shocked! She said: "Oh, NO! I like the same band as my father!" You would have thought the world was about to end.  I told my daughter that she should fear not. One day, she was going to be a mother and she too would no longer be one of the cool kids. It won't matter.

As we pulled up to the school, my daughter gathered up her things, leaned over and put her arms around my neck and gave me a kiss on the check. As she was getting out of the car she looked at me, smiled and said "I Love you, Daddy. See you when you pick me up."

You see, I may not be cool in her eyes. The world may be coming to an end because she likes the same things as I but, she still will give me a kiss in public and tell me she loves me, regardless of who is watching. As far as I am concerned, that makes me the coolest guy in town.

So, as I write this, I am listening to the Eagles and I remembered this story. More than 10 years after the fact, it still makes me smile.

My friends, I've said it before and I will say it again. I live a modest life but I have a wife and children and a granddaughter who love me. I have a group of friends that I would do anything for and I am privileged to be called their friend. I appreciate each of you and am happy, beyond words that you are all part of my life.

Listen to some music. See what memories come to mind. I hope they make you smile also.

As Always...


Please remember Toys for Tots. It's not to late to donate and make Christmas Merry for someone less fortunate.

Sometimes you just have to stop and look around...

I got up this morning and as is my habit, I was looking through my Face Book "News Feed". I came across a post from a good friend who lives in Alaska. She had posted this beautiful picture from the local newspaper. (Thanks to the Anchorage Daily News) When I commented on how beautiful the picture was, my friend remarked in an off hand sort of way that it was "just" from a newspaper.

In this day and age where we see nothing but murder and mayhem in our local papers; dissatisfaction with our local and National officials is rampant and gleefully reported in the paper and by other media, it is just a simple pleasure to see a thing of beauty like "Just Alaska" in the paper.

I am sure that there are a lot of drawbacks to living so far removed from the rest of the country. But, you have to admit that it's beautiful. That's the point. You have to sometimes stop and take in the beauty that is all around us.

We live in a vast country with some of the most scenic areas of the world. All you have to do is look around and you will find something. I've got the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. both scenic, to be sure. Even in winter, these places are amazing to look at.

We have beauty all around us. It doesn't have to be scenery. I'll tell you now that I always get a thrill when I see the face of any one of my children. Seeing my Granddaughter sends me over the moon.

My wife has been away for a week. I miss her terribly. Trust me, I will be very happy to see her when she returns. Beauty is all around us. Isn't it funny that just as I typed that, my phone rang. My wife was calling. I guess after 32 years, she is psychic.

So, my advice for the day is simple. Find the beauty that is all around you. You'd be surprised where you will find it.  It may be as close as your nearest mirror.

As Always...


Don't forget Toys for Tots

A little indulgence...

Are you Lucy, Schroeder or Snoopy? I'd like to think of myself as Snoopy but, I'm afraid I may be Schroeder.

Our pianist friend was singularly driven to play his piano as well as his hero Beethoven. I too, have been accused of being driven to perfection seeking. But, seriously folks, that's not what I want to talk about today.

I  want to talk about guilty pleasures. I chose the three characters above, because Schroeder is playing music and Snoopy is dancing. Lucy is relaxed, listening to the music. You see, I love music.

Being deaf in one ear, it is more difficult for me to enjoy my music than it used to be but, I manage. Don't expect me to hear you when I have headphones on. I've probably got the volume turned up all the way so that I can hear the music.

My taste in tunes is rather eclectic. Although I am not a great country fan, I do enjoy the work of some country singers. Some of the country bands are not to bad in small doses either. I listen to the pop and top 40 of the 60s-90s. I really enjoy the big bands of the 40s and almost any Jazz of any era.

Most of the popular music of today escapes me. Hip hop is beyond me and forget about Rap. I won't even try to listen to it. You can call me old or closed minded but, since my hearing is at a premium and it's my time; I get to decide how I am going to utilize both.

This time of year, I listen to "Christmas" music. There are hundreds of Christmas albums out there (OK, it's digital music now. I know, they are not really albums any more.) My favorite Christmas collection is "A Christmas Portrait" by the Carpenters.

I know some of you may cringe. You either loved or hated the Carpenters. I am firmly in the Love camp. I had a crush on Karen Carpenter since 1969. I cried when she died. What a shame. Alive or dead, I love the Carpenter's Christmas Album.

Music can do so much for us. It can make a tedious task go faster or a boring day more exciting. It adds spice to the movies  and sparks memories when we are sad. To me, there's nothing quite as amazing as Music. I'm very fortunate because in my life, I have been privileged to play music.

So, I hope you will excuse me. I think I will go listen to some Christmas music now.

As Always...


Don't forget Toys for Tots.

Yes indeed, there is a Santa Claus.

It's interesting to me that in the news was a story of a 5th grade child who "still" believed in Santa. The story went so far as to describe how he tries to convince his classmates of the existence of Santa.

What a cynical society we have become. Why is a child, fighting to hold on to innocence cause for a news story? All children should hold on to that same innocence. I am well into my 50's and I believe in the Santa Claus.

I remember when my youngest daughter was told that Santa was not real. There was some sort of argument going on. Just the usual drama of a good sized family and my oldest son blurted out that Santa was not real. Oh my goodness! What a terrible thing to say. I asked my son if he would then prefer that there were no gifts under the family's Christmas tree that year.

We give gifts for Christmas to show our love and to reenact the original gift giving at the birth of the Christ child. (If you believe as Christians do) But, Gift giving is not strictly a Christian custom.

Over the years, people of many faiths emulate the Christmas traditions by exchanging gifts with family and close friends at this time of year. It's a simple expression of love.

The legend of Santa Claus tells us that he leaves the north pole each Christmas eve and distributes Christmas gifts to "All the good little girls and boys" of the world. The myth also states that he keeps a list of all the children who have been naughty and nice. Yet, somehow, all the children of the household receive a gift. (Well, except my sister the year I gave her fireplace ashes because she had been mean to me one too many times. Mom knew and approved.)

My point is: all children are good in the eyes of their parents as they are in the eyes of God. (Yes, my Catholic Faith is showing.)

Historians and anthropologists can do all the research they wish. They may tell us the actual time of year and the true place of the birth of Jesus of Nazareth. Scientists can tell us that the miracles attributed to Jesus were in fact not miracles but occurrences based in scientific fact. That is all well and good. I prefer to believe in my Faith.

My Faith tells me the following:

Luke 2:10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.

The wise men came bearing gifts for the child.  Because of Love. That is what we reenact on Christmas.

If I can believe all of that on Faith. We can all believe in Santa. You see, the spirit of Santa lives in all of us. Anyone who has the capacity to Love has the spirit of Santa in them. That is where Santa Claus really lives. 

Among all the gifts under our tree, there is always a gift "From: Santa". 

Last week, we were putting together our Christmas Card list. I needed the address of a friend of mine. He happens to be non-Christian. When I asked for his address he replied: "Don't feel obligated to send us a X-mas card this year. We are not sending any." I again asked for my friend's address and explained that I don't send things to people expecting anything in return.

Keep the Spirit of Santa in your heart all year long. Remember that a gift freely given is truly a gift from the heart.

As Always...

Don't forget Toys for Tots

Monday, Monday...

The old song says "Monday, Monday; Can't trust that day." Indeed for my family this is indeed one of those Mondays that if I were a person to let my mood ruin the day... Let's just say that my Monday started around 9:30 last night.

It's bad enough that my spouse is away in New Jersey, dealing with a family emergency. But, the emergency came to a head last evening with the death of her Uncle. He had fallen and hit his head last Monday and finally succumbed to the head injury.

For those who knew him, he will be missed. For the rest of us, we can also take comfort in the knowledge that he is meeting his reward, even as I write this.

The point of all of this is very selfish on my part. I miss my wife and wish she did not have to be away any longer. So, my friends, an attitude adjustment is in order.

Although my wife's uncle was elderly, we do indeed need to be reminded that life is short and we do not have any time to waste in self pity or feelings that are negative. As a matter of fact, when a death occurs, it is the perfect time to celebrate your own life and remember those around you and those who have gone before to enrich your life.

The same goes for your day to day attitude. Look, when life gives you lemons, make Lemonade spiked with Vodka if you have to! If you can't drink, please skip the Vodka. What I am saying is, have fun.

You can have fun in any task, all you have to do is look for it. It's all in your head. Gosh, now I sound like Mary Poppins. Well, she was right. A spoon full of sugar does make the medicine go down.

People spend thousands of dollars or more to learn that simple rule. A smile goes a lot further than a frown. It is easier to get things done with a pleasant manner than with a surly one. Simply greet the day with a positive outlook and keep that outlook as the day progresses. You will find that after some time, those around you will begin to be more positive and productivity will improve along with the working environment. People, that's called leadership.

I don't care what your position at work or in life is. We are all leaders. No, you don't get in front of the crowd and say "Follow Me!" as you storm the office manager's door. We call that Mutiny in the Navy. But, by being a positive influence, you can lead your small corner of the world into a more pleasant way of doing things.

Soon, Monday, Monday won't be a day that you can't take any longer. Monday will be just another day where you can take on life as a challenge. You can meet the day with excitement, just like when you were young and innocent and didn't know any better.

So, yes, a part of me feels sadness for all the reasons that I mentioned but, I refuse to let that sadness take over my life and I continue to be a positive influence for those around me. They expect nothing less from me. Just as I do of myself.

As Always...

Don't forget Toys for Tots.  Navy-34 Army-7

Tis the season to be...

When we think of the Holiday season we think of family celebrations, lots of food and possibly some gift giving. We all have different holiday traditions and so the celebrations vary for all of us. I hope each and every one of you have the best holiday imaginable. 

The Christmas Carol says that it  "tis the season to be jolly" but, unfortunately, for some it is the season to be scammed.

There are all sorts of ruthless people out there who are working very hard to not only see you part with your hard earned cash but they want to make sure they are the ones who get it. The scams are carried and ingenious. They can be so subtle that you may not even realize that you are being scammed until it is to late. 

I can't blame a sales person for working hard to make a sale even if they know that the person they are selling the product or service to may not need it or can't afford it. At least these sales people are legitimate even if they are short on ethics. It's the straight up con artist that I can't stand.

Just read your local news  and you can read about some unsuspecting pensioner who was scammed out of their life savings with the promise of quick riches or the illusion of helping another. It's despicable.

I heard a story the other day where the mother of a young Marine was nearly scammed. The Marine Mom did not know a lot about how the Corps works but, she had enough sense to know when something seemed out of place. She was smart and held the scammer at bay by saying she did not have the information they needed at hand. Once she was rid of the scammer, she asked for help from friends. The friends gave her exactly the right advice and not only was she able to thwart the con, her son was able to come home as scheduled.

There are scammers out there who will work to take advantage of families of junior military personnel and their families. They know that their military knowledge is limited and therefore, with just a little bit of bluster, the con man can succeed.

Here's my advice: When in doubt, ask! Ask a knowledgeable friend. If it's military, ask someone you trust, like a recruiter. Call the authorities. Just keep asking questions until you are satisfied.

I was once nearly the victim of a scam. But, I believe that if something seems to good to be true, it probably is. So, rather than acting quickly and rashly, I thought about the situation and eventually called my local FBI office. Guess what! They have agents devoted to scams and frauds. Needless to say, I was not victimized.

The authorities are glad to help you. Especially if you are a member of the military or a family member of someone serving, the authorities will jump at the chance to assist. Furthermore, if someone is impersonating a member of the military in order to facilitate criminal activity, that is a federal crime. 

Don't be embarrassed to ask for help. Personally, I would prefer a little embarrassment now and be able to count my money later. Think how embarrassed you would be if the con worked.

OK, that's enough of that. Now on to serious business.  Tomorrow is the annual Army/Navy game in Philadelphia. I've only got one thing to say

Go Navy. Beat Army!!

As Always...

Please remember to donate to Toys for Tots.

It's not combat... Not even close!

Following celebrities is all well and good. Many people love to live vicariously through the exploits and accomplishments of various celebrities of whatever ilk.

I understand that these celebrities think that their jobs are the most important in the world and that we could not live without them if they fell out of the "Scene". To that end, many of them do outrageous things to stay in the public eye and hold on to that spotlight.

Please note that I say many, not all. There are quite a few movie actors, singers stage actors and the like whom you never hear about until they have a new property to promote. I am speaking of those who do everything from the ridiculous to the down right stupid and moving quickly to the dangerous just to stay in the public eye.

The world lamented the death of Whitney Huston as a great tragedy. I don't look at it that way. I look at it as a crime. She had an amazing talent that she squandered. For whatever reason, I don't care. I am not familiar with her personal demons and frankly, I'm not interested. She had the resources to get whatever help she required . That help would have been provided at the highest quality. Instead, she pulled the wool over everyone's eyes and continued on the path to self destruction. Like so many celebrities, she believed that she was immune from harm and exempt from consequence. Now, she is dead by her own hand. I do not mourn her.

An actor recently died in an horrific car crash. Paul Walker was famous in own right, I'm told. He got in a car with an intoxicated driver. The vehicle was traveling at an excessive rate of speed on surface streets and the intoxicated driver lost control. Another death. Another case of lack of personal responsibility. Mr. Walker's family complained that Porsche admitted that the vehicle in question was not safe at high speeds in excess of 90 MPH. I've got news for anyone who doesn't know: No car is safe at speeds in excess of 90 MPH on surface streets. Sorry, that's just the way it is. This death was due to lack of responsibility.

Tom Cruise and more recently Kanye West have likened their jobs and the difficulty of their work with combat. I do not know how these two remain employed. Forget the fact that I think both of these individuals are clowns. You could not pay me to listen to Mr. West's music. I was never a fan of Cruise's.

Both these celebrities are the prime examples of overgrown egos. Do they really think that their contribution to our culture is so important that if they fell off the face of the earth today, next week; anyone would remember who they were?

To be sure, they may work hard. But, they do not put their lives in danger to serve or protect anyone or anything other than their own self-interest. Anyone who doubts this can take a day trip to their local military or VA hospital and see people who have withstood combat.

Many don't need to go that far. Look across your living room at your veteran Husband, Son, Grandson, Brother, Daughter, Granddaughter or other family member. They have stood the watch. They have walked the patrol. They have faced the perils that this life can offer and stood up and asked for more.

They did not ask to do this for money. They did not take on this burden in a vain search for fame. Each entered the crucible of combat because they had a sense of duty. That duty was be part of something larger than themselves. It was larger than their unit or branch of service. Their duty was larger than the Country.

The idea of freedom is why we serve. It is why we are willing to enter combat and sacrifice everything. We do this not for our own freedom but for the freedom of all.

These are ideals that the fame seeking celebrities will never understand. To those foolish enough to think that whatever they are doing is akin in the slightest way to combat, I laugh and remind them that they are permitted to make their silly statements because of those who did indeed stand that post or walk that patrol in real combat. Not the fantasy combat of the celebrity mind.

I had intended to keep my blogs for this month of December in more of a Holiday vein but, these were things weighing on my mind. I will say this:

I have stood the watch and have been honored to know many more who have stood that same watch. We stood the watch of freedom so that those at home could celebrate this holiday of Peace and Forgiveness. Many did not return from their duty and for them, I will never stop mourning.

For all who have returned and will return, I am honored and humbled to stand among you.  For the families of those who serve, I have no words that express my admiration and respect for the sacrifices you also make each day.

As Always...


Don't forget to donate to Toys for Tots.

What do you mean: I'm getting older?

Monday was Admiral Grace Hopper's (1906-1992) birthday. She was a hero of mine and stands today as a role model that we can all learn from.

Before I get to my point, let me tell you a little about this amazing woman and Naval Officer. She joined the Naval reserve in 1942. In 1955 she applied for transfer to the regular navy and her request was disapproved due to her age. She reported in an interview that this was the first time she was ever told she was to old for anything.

The future RDML retired from the Naval Reserve in 1966 only to be recalled to active duty. She was promoted to the rank of Captain in 1970. In 1983 she gained the attention of National Leaders and was appointed a Commodore in the Navy. This rank was later renamed Rear Admiral (Lower Half) (RDML). Admiral Hopper retired from the Navy that she loved for the final time at the age of 79. She did not volunteer for retirement.

Grace Hopper was part of the team that developed the machine language COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language). She is also responsible for the term "Bug" in a program that is not properly working.

Admiral Hopper died in 1992 and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

Anyone who uses a computer should know the name "Grace Hopper". She is one of the reasons we have the computers we do today.

I had the privilege of meeting Grace Hopper when I was stationed at the Pentagon shortly after she was elevated to "Flag" rank. (That's promoted to Rear Admiral for those of you who don't speak Navy.) She had a direct speaking style and was not intimidated by rank or position. A phrase she loved to use was "It is easier to ask forgiveness than to ask permission."

What she was talking about was being a leader. She was always a leader. at the age of nearly 80 she was still serving our Navy and the Nation, leading and inspiring those she encountered. She inspired everyone she came in contact with regardless of rank. Seaman to Admiral; PVT to General, it didn't matter. She would tell it like it was and do it with a smile or a stern look if need be.

This all leads me to my point today. Many of you know that I will have to go into the hospital again for surgery on my vocal cord. This time the surgery is very invasive. I will have to spend the night in the hospital and the whole thing doesn't sound very pleasant if you take the doctor at her word.

Because of this news, since Monday, I've been feeling kind of "old" and sorry for myself. I've got to tell you, that stops here and now. If people like Grace Hopper can keep going until the age of 85, there is certainly no way I am going to let something like a surgery keep me down.

I don't like feeling down. I try to remain upbeat most of the time but, at heart I am a serious person. I have always taken my responsibilities seriously and I have worked very hard to take my health seriously in the last year. But, for some reason I let this news get to me.

I found a cure for those blues. Yesterday I spent the afternoon with my little granddaughter. She spent time sitting next to me and having fun with the rest of our family. I am not going to be a grumpy old person. That  is not how I want my little granddaughter to remember me.

As Always...


Don't forget to donate to Toys for Tots.

Some things should not "fade" into history.

This past Saturday was the Anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Even 72 years later, the date: December 7, should be a National Day of Remembrance. I'm sure it won't happen because it is not politically correct.

3 generations removed from the infamous day, school children are hardly taught the date and it's significance in school. It is indeed sad. Our status as a "Super Power" was brought about by our entry into the second "Great War."

The importance of learning modern history can not be overstated in my opinion. I truly do believe that those who fail to learn from history are indeed doomed to repeat it. History is a roadmap to our future. Ignore it at our peril.

The world's greatest generation is more quickly disappearing. Old age is finally catching up to those heroes who gave so much to civilization so that we may feast at that table we call freedom and prosperity.

Yes I say prosperity along with our freedom because even with the country's economy in as poor shape as it is, we are indeed still a land of plenty. I know, I looked in my fridge and freezer today. We will not be going hungry any time soon.

World War II not only pulled this country out of the Great Depression but, thrust the United States on to the world stage to make it a world power.

But, the cost has been great. Those aboard the great battleship Arizona remain as a testament to the American Spirit which was awakened on that fateful morning in 1941. Their memory and sacrifice does not deserve to fade into history.

Those entombed aboard Arizona remind us that wether we have worn the uniform of this Nation or not, we are all heirs to the sacrifice of blood which forged this country.

I am in no way saying that war should be glorified or celebrated. On the contrary, those who served prior to the attack of December 7th held out hope that war would not come. War was the last thing they wanted. But, if was to come, they were willing to stand on the front lines and do the fighting.

There was a draft in those days. There is not a draft now. We have an all volunteer military force. The lessons of history and especially of December 7th are even more important today.

As Always...


Don't forget to donate to Toys for Tots.

Sometimes the day just seems to go to...

Did you ever have a day when you just felt like getting your blanket and your puppy and saying "To Heck"* with it all?

Well, the other day seemed like that to me. I don't ask for a lot out of life. No fighting or drama from my family. Get the bills paid. Have a nice hot meal at the end of a day. Finally, give me just a little bit of space in the house that is mine.

I just ask that I have a little corner of the table where I can keep my laptop and my papers and things. No one touch them, please. That's all I want. I've always had this rule. My stuff. Leave it alone! If you want something, just ask. I got stars for sharing in Kindergarden many years ago. I do know how to share.

When I was at the Naval Hospital Friday, I got a print-out of my pending appointments. On Saturday, I went to enter them into my tablet so as not to forget them. I went over to my corner of the table where I knew I had put the paper print-out and what do I find? The print-outs are gone!

How can this be? The important papers were with my things in my area of the room. They were placed in their proper place. After all, the one thing I know how to do is put things where they belong! I always put things away. I always put things back where I got them. But, a search of the entire house, including the trash in the kitchen gave me a negative result. My lists of appointments were gone.

Let me explain something. I am not permitted to get angry or upset. It's not a medical issue. My family will not allow it. If I do get angry or upset, I am asked why am I being such a jerk?*  So, after going into my room and calming down, I come up with a plan.

Just as I am calm, people start to come in the room to ask me if I am OK. I'd be fine if everyone would just leave me alone for 10 minutes. 10 minutes of peace is all I ask. But, of course, I can't get a corner of a table to myself so why would I get 10 minutes of peace and quiet.

Now my wife and daughter are both mad at me because I am being a "Jerk".* Finally, I come out of my room after realizing that I no longer have either a security blanket or a warm puppy to hold and make me feel better. My wife and daughter both ask if I am "better." I inform them that I have a plan and leave things at that.

My plan was to call the clinic where I knew I had my first appointment as soon as they opened and ask them what time my appointment was. After the first appointment I would go to the second clinic and ask what time that appointment was scheduled. I knew that one was in the morning and the other; in the afternoon. At worst, I would look like I can't keep my appointments squared away. Oh, well. My ego will survive.

Promptly at 0632 (They open at 0630. I figure I'd let the receptionist get settled in.) I call to verify my first appointment. We exchange greetings and I identify myself. I explain my problem and tell the kind woman on the other end of the phone who I have my appointment with. She informs me that my appointment was cancelled because my provider has just called in sick!

I guess they were going to wait for a more reasonable hour to call and inform me or have me come in at the appointed time and wait forever like a walk-in. I asked if it would be better to just reschedule the appointment.

Yay! With a sigh of relief the receptionist  tells me, that would be a better idea.  So, I have a new appointment for Friday. It's a good thing that I know all my Physical Therapy exercises and can do them at home. I can't get any more clinic time without this re-evaluation.

I'll call for the time of my second appointment of the day after 0800. I know the appointment is in the afternoon. I wasn't looking forward to going out into the frozen tundra that is outside anyway. It should be a little warmer later.

So, my friends; there is a point to all of this. As you can glean from the above, it turned out well that I had to call this morning. Otherwise, as I write this, I would have been cooling my heels in an uncomfortable waiting room in the Naval Hospital.  What seemed to be a calamity, turned out to be a fortunate circumstance.

Next time, I imagine I should not get so angry that someone had gotten into my things. I'm sure there was no malice in the action of throwing away the print-outs. The problem was solved and it all turned out fine in the end.

But, I still wouldn't mind a nice warm puppy to hug for Christmas. I've got a new blanket!

As Always...

Don't forget to donate to Toys for Tots. It only takes a moment.

*  Language cleaned up for this blog. Feel free to insert expletives as appropriate.

Just getting through the busy day with a smile...

It's early Saturday morning and as promised, I'm writing a blog post to make up for the one I missed yesterday. I was listening to music but, I can't listen to music and write at the same time. I get distracted and don't write. I love music.

I can't sing any more I used to sing all the time but, since the heart surgery, I've had this vocal cord problem and so, singing sounds like a frog meeting an alligator. Ugly, right? That's what my singing is: Ugly. It makes me kind of sad. I hear a familiar tune and want to sing along. I try and some kind of horrid noise comes out. I stop and hope no one heard me. It's frustrating after singing my entire life. Ah, well...

Yesterday, while at the Naval Hospital; we gave out a little bit of Christmas goodies. My youngest daughter had made Christmas Sugar cookies, decorated with colored icing and sugar. They looked professionally done to me and reminded me of the cookies you would find in an old fashioned bakery.

Every year, during the holidays, my daughter bakes. We could never eat all the goodies that she makes, although we might try. I certainly can't. My blood sugar goes up just thinking about them. So, we give them to some of the dedicated Hospital Corpsmen and Doctors at the local Naval Hospital. It seems the least we can do for these truly good people. The have after all, saved my life more than once or twice.

We got off the elevator on the second deck of the hospital and were right by the Quarterdeck watch. The young Seaman Apprentice at the desk saw the container of cookies I was carrying and his eyes lit up. So, I stopped and asked him if he would like a Cookie. He happily took one. When we entered the Quarterdeck Office, it had about 10 people in it. They seemed to be sitting around fixing their breakfast in the microwave. More happy faces as they received fresh cookies. I just love this!

Then, it was off to the Cardiology Clinic. These amazing people really had a hand in saving my life and I will be forever grateful. I am a regular patient at that clinic so, I am recognized. When we walked in with cookies, one of the Corpsmen actually stood up and gave a little clap and said "Oh, Goody!" For just a second she was a kid with a Christmas Treat. I will never have problems getting an appointment with my Cardiologist again. The Sailors really enjoyed their unexpected surprise and we were happy to provide.

There is just never enough we can do to thank the dedicated folks at the Naval Hospital for what they have done for me. What they do for our active service personnel can never be measured.

Another group of selfless people I wanted to mention are the U. S. Marine Corps Reservists who administer and are the face of "Toys for Tots." Established in 1947, this holiday charity has become as familiar as the Santa with a bell on street corners and outside department stores.

It's a simple concept. Place a New, in the box toy in the collection box. The Marines will do the rest! The gift will be wrapped and distributed to a child for Christmas. It's a simple idea that works. We've all see the commercials that tug at our heart strings. Tug no more. Just drop a gift in the box. You will make a child very happy.

I was so busy yesterday but, in spite of being busy, I was able to have some fun . Best of all, we brightened some people's day. I always like that. When we were finished giving away cookies, my daughter said to me that I seemed to have fun. You bet I did! Any day I can do something for our folks in uniform is a good day.

Now, if I can just carry that through to the rest of the year.

As Always...

What to buy? What to buy?

With the biggest holiday for many of us fast approaching, it's time to get those Christmas presents purchased. If you are like me, it's not a task that you relish.

Normally, I don't mind shopping. It's a good excuse to get out of the house and I like looking around, especially at electronic gadgets. However, during Christmas, things become more difficult.

As people on the street generally have a pleasant attitude with a cheery "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Holidays" on their lips; inside the stores, it's a much different environment. The usually cheery person has transformed into this hybrid; part human, part shopping machine and part murderous beast. It can be scary to watch and even more frightening to interact with. People are in the stores grabbing and shoving, pushing and swearing; just to get to a box of batteries or some other inconsequential item in a particular store. It's not like you can't get batteries in nearly every store in the country.

I was on a "quest" for a particular product for one of my sons. He had specifically asked for this. It was the only thing he wanted. I looked the item up on line and found the price to be way to expensive. However, I checked further and found that the item in question could be purchased locally at a significant savings and I would not have to pay shipping. I began my trek through the stores suggested on the web page. This alone was an adventure. I discovered something very interesting. Customer Service is no longer available in a store unless you beg.

It is nearly impossible to get assistance from anyone in a store without making a scene.  I walked into a major retailer and before I even got started I saw the perfect example of the lack of service. A woman was having trouble with the self checkout station. When she asked the clerk who was standing at the podium (with the sole purpose of helping customers) for help: did the employee walk over and assist the customer? Why, of course not! Why would an employee of a retail store assist a customer? She hollered across the 25 feet to the woman, instructing her what to do. The older woman was absolutely perplexed. The employee did not move! It's a good thing she didn't work for me.

When I go into a store these days, I feel like I am disturbing the sales people. Well, I'd feel like I was disturbing them, if I could find one. It amazes me that these huge stores stay in business.

Several years ago, I was in the market for two computers. I wanted a new desktop for family's use and a laptop for me. You would think that a customer looking for two computers would be treated well, especially in a store that was on the verge of going down the drain. (I read the business news regularly). My treatment in this particular store illustrated exactly why they were loosing business.

My friend and I went in and asked about purchasing two computers. Rather than walking us over to the relevant section of the store, the employee, who moments before had been talking to a friend on his personal phone, waved his arms and said: "Computers over there."

Fortunately, "over there" was also in the direction of a competing electronics retailer. I informed the manager of the store that we would not be making a 1,500 dollar purchase at his store and why. I received no apology for the poor service. The manager made no effort to keep us in the store and sell us anything.

We went down the block and made our computer purchase at the other store. FYI, the first store (and it's entire chain) is now out of business. No surprise.

Customer service is important. If you don't get the service you want, go to another store. If I wanted no customer service and wanted to do all the work myself, I'd order on-line.

I don't usually order on-line. I like to see what I am buying. I want to see it and touch it. I want to read the labels and ask a human questions. I don't like to pay shipping.

I have found items on line that I liked. I found good prices too. I decide to buy. I head to the check-out page. The shipping cost is more than the cost of the item! Unless it's something I really need and can't get any place else, it's no sale from me.

I do like free shipping. If the shipping is free, I may be convinced to buy on-line. But, shopping on-line for me, not really fun.

So, grab your list for holiday gifts and go out and brave the world of shopping. Don't expect any service. Be prepared to do battle. Most of all, have fun. When you are finished, come have a cup of coffee or hot chocolate with me. You'll need to relax.

Don't forget to drop an unwrapped, in the box gift in the United States Marine Corps "Toys for Tots" box. 
Remember our deployed troops of all branches.

As Always...

Let it snow...(Just a little bit)

I grew up in Northern New Jersey. Being from the Northeast meant certain things. One of the things we loved the most as children was snow. A snow day was the most wonderful day imaginable. We didn't get that many.

It showed regularly in New Jersey but, the town was ready for real snowfall. It had to be a very serious snow storm to give us a snow day off from school. Believe me, you have not lived until you have ridden in a school bus as it virtually slid down a mountain to get you to school. There was no problem being awake for the first class of the day. You had already been terrified.

But, getting to school was a problem for grown-ups to deal with. We children lived for the snow. I always loved how our front lawn looked after a night of good heavy snow. The trees looked so pretty and the lawns looked pristine. I would hate when kids would walk across the beautiful untouched lawn and ruin the beauty of it's smoothness.

There was always the fun part of a good snowfall but, I'll get to that later. Before any fun could be had, we had chores to do. The main one being to shovel the large driveway. Our driveway could fit two cars side by side and honestly, 4 cars could fit comfortably in the space. 2 would be in front of the garages and two right behind those. It was a good bit of real estate for children to shovel.

My older brother and I were assigned to perform this task. Being small, my brother would bully me into doing the whole job. He'd get away with it too! I never did figure out how he managed to get away with making me shovel the entire driveway. Well, I think I eventually figured out that it was because my mother just got tired of hearing me cry so, she would say just be quiet and go do it! I suppose I did it to myself.

One day, after a particularly heavy snowfall, I had been complaining about having to shovel the whole driveway and I guess I was getting rather loud. I was only a little kid and didn't really have any concept that others lived in the neighborhood. Suddenly, our neighbor whom I adored, stuck her head out of her door and hollered across the street to me. "Robert Dennis! I have been listening to you cry all morning. You could have shoveled that entire driveway 4 times by now."

Well, let me tell you; I was flabbergasted. This was just unfair. As I tried to tell Mrs. Collins this, she informed me that my brother was indeed a bully and it is NOT at all fair however, it is even more unfair that she has to listen to me cry all morning about it. Furthermore, my crying is not getting the driveway shoveled out.

I learned my lesson. I shoveled out the driveway and as I came into the house, the phone rang. My Mom answered. After a quick conversation, Momma hung up the phone and said: "Robert Dennis. Go over to Mrs. Collins' house. She wants to see you." Now as any child knows, when an adult uses both your first and middle name, it means only one thing. You are in trouble.

I trudged over to our neighbor's home, across the street. As I arrived at the front door, it opened and Mrs. Collins was there, smiling at me. She invited me in and asked me to take off my coat, hat and mittens. We went into her kitchen and she had hot chocolate and a grilled cheese sandwich for me. I wasn't in trouble at all. I got a "special" lunch just because I finally learned that it was better to just suck it up sometimes, even when it's unfair.

You know, that's a good lesson to learn, especially for an 8 year old.

After the chores were done, we got to use our sleds. We lived on a hill so we had some great sledding. Mickey got to go off skiing. I wasn't allowed but, I had a wonderful time sledding. We would finally come home, soaked to the skin. As we took off our wet cloths, we would have chattering teeth yet we would tell Mom that we were not cold at all. Momma would just laugh as she hustled me off to a warm bath. Yes indeed, I did love snow days.

I live in Hampton Roads, Virginia now. It doesn't snow much here. Some years we get no snow at all. When we do get even a light snowfall, most people act like the world is coming to an end. It's kind of comical.

Last year, we had a couple of good snows, nothing major but enough to cover the grass. During one snowfall, my youngest daughter and I were at the mall when it really started. We started for home. My daughter had never driven in any snow before. I told her to avoid the brake and slow and steady wins the race. When we were nearly home, we came upon a car with two girls in it, pulled to the side of the road. I asked if they needed any help. They informed me that there was something wrong with their tires. The car keeps sliding all over the road. Shaking our heads, my daughter and I continued on our way.

So, I don't want a major snow storm. Just enough snow to cover the lawns and make the trees pretty is all I ask. I'm not allowed to shovel snow any longer but, my two sons will make sure it gets cleaned off the walk.

As always...

It's December!!!

November has said it's goodbyes to us and as we fondly remember the Thanksgiving feast, it's time to think about December and all that it brings.

In our house, the day after Thanksgiving is time to put the Christmas tree up. As you can imagine, after 32 years of marriage, we do have a fine eclectic assortment of ornaments to adorn the family Christmas tree. Imagine my delight when I found the above Eagle, Globe and Anchor on the tree, this morning.  For some reason, I had forgotten that we had this particular ornament.

I am particularly moved by this decoration because the Marine Corps holds such an important place on our family and in the families of so many of my friends. This ornament reminds us to hold a special place in our hearts for not only the Marines but for all who serve.

As I looked over my Facebook page this morning, I noticed something that always warms my soul. I have a friend who just adores her Granddaughter. This is a sentiment that I can fully understand. I am also the grandparent of a little girl and my Granddaughter holds a very special and honored place in my heart.

It always makes me smile when I read about this particular friend when she talks of her granddaughter. I'll tell you this; this child has the ability to melt the Grinch's heart. She has a smile that lights up a room and eyes that sparkle in a way that is difficult to describe. Best of all, her Grandmother is called "Grammie!"

Of course my friend is a terrific Grandmother. Her name is Grammie! My mother was called Grammie by my children and she was a wonderful Grandmother. This must be why my friend is so great.

Seriously though, being a grandparent is the most rewarding position to be in. Before my granddaughter was born, other friends who had grandchildren told me that being a grandparent was unlike anything else in the world. they were right.

Like most people, I had two sets of grandparents. I had an American set (on my mother's side) and a Portuguese set.  I have wonderful, but much different memories of both sets. The most glaring was that my Portuguese grandparents spoke no english.

Since my father's family lived in Lisbon, if they came to visit during the Holidays, it was always a "production." We children would usually be uprooted from our rooms to make space for visitors. Quite a bit of space was needed. I had my grandparents, 2 sets of Uncles and Aunts with 2 to 3 cousins. The number of cousins depended on when in the past the visit came. My youngest Portuguese cousin was born quite a bit after my two older ones.

My two older cousins were wonderful. The oldest was my age. and her younger sister was just slightly younger. I never knew exactly how old she was but, we always had fun. They learned english in school and hanging out with their American cousins was a good excuse for them to practice. I remember that the girls would constantly apologize for their poor english and we American children would apologize for our abysmal Portuguese. It must have been fun to watch us. Strangely, I remember much more of the language now that I don't need to use it than I did when I was young.

I remember my maternal grandmother well. She was a quiet woman with a sweet smile. I couldn't figure out how she always knew we were arriving at her apartment. But, there she would be, at the end of the hall with that smile; each time we got off the elevator. Of course, years later, I realized that the call bottom alerted her to our presence when we gained entrance to the building. I think that being a child and thinking it was Grandma's magic was infinitely more fun.

But, now the circle has come all the way round and I am the Grandfather. I like this position. I hope that I am as good a Granddad (Nono) as I have had in my life and as my children still have in my wife's Dad.

Let the wrapping of gifts begin!

As always...