IT'S OVER - TIME TO GET BACK TO REALITY.

Yes it's over, almost. I am referring to the holiday season. One last hurdle to get over, New Years, and it is done, finished, and over until next year. The check book and charge cards can now take a breather and relax. The weight that I have put on since Thanksgiving must come off, not good for my diabetes, as well as my appearance.
I have a friend, Dalene, who loves to bake and I must say she is quite good at it. When I talk to her on the phone she tells me what she was making in the way of Christmas treats and I gain 10 lbs just listening to her. After she bakes it all she brings a large container of goodies to my house. There must be about 10 different sweet treats in this container. I really have to limit myself because as I said before I am diabetic. I don't have many people visit me so I wind up eating most of it myself. The hardest time for me is when I am watching tv and fall asleep in the chair. When I wake up a few hours later and dang if I am not as hungry as a bear. My problem is that instead of having an apple or something I go right for the treats, eat them and then go to bed. Not a good thing. Is it time for a New Years resolution, YES, and that starts Friday. So I have four days to finish the treats hahahahaha, and start the good healthy life. I hope that I have the willpower.
By the way I want to wish you all a very happy and healthy New Year.

BOOK YOUR VACATION NOW FOR GREAT DEALS

It's winter and it's cold you are sitting, looking out of the window at the rain, sleet and snow. What are your thinking about. Let me give you a suggestion. PLAN YOUR SUMMER VACATION NOW. How about thinking about naples beachfront condos, a trip to a foreign country or anywhere in the world. Make your reservations now or at least talk to someone and get the ball rolling. There is one place that I know can help you and answer all of your questions and that website is http://www.rentalo.com/. They specialize in vacation rentals, hotels and bed and breakfast anywhere in the world.
http://www.rentalo.com/ is the largest online vacation rental company in the world with access to over 120,000 properties. If you can't pick one out of that many properties I don't know what to tell you. Also if you are a property owner they will be happy to assist you in renting your property.
By going way of vacation rentals you can get a large variety of properties to choose from and get what best suites you and make this a vacation of your dreams.
Go to http://www.rentalo.com/ and view their website and see the many special offers that are available to you that can save you money.
Go to the website and read the testimonials of people who have used Rentalo.com and are very, very pleased with the service and quality of the properties offered them.
I am not asking you, but telling you to do yourself a favor and visit http://www.rentalo.com/ to get your best vacation package for your next vacation.

CAN YOU CONTINUE TO HOLIDAY MUSICAL SEASON INTO THE NEXT YEAR?

How much does music influence your life. Do you only listen to seasonal music? Music is a listening past time that can influence your thoughts, dress mannerisms and many other things that affect your life. If you enjoy seasonal music such as Christmas, will that carry over into the next year for you. It will for me because it puts me into a,how should I put it, a festive mood that I enjoy and yes I do listen to Christmas music throughout the year.
Let us know your thoughts to the questions in the survey below.
Thanks for taking part.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

To all who read or may read this post I want to thank you and wish you and your families a most blessed and happy MERRY CHRISTMAS.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT PAYDAY LOANS

When you are short of money as is everyone now and then, where do you turn. Friends, family, work for an advance or do you go to a PayDay Loan branch and get your money there. I can't help it but I only see that as a temporary fix because whatever you borrowed will be out of your next check including interest of who know how much.
Let me know what your views on this PayDay Loan program is.

LOS ANGELES CRIMINAL AND DUI DEFENSE ATTORNEY'S

Not everyone wants to get into trouble, but on occasion someone will and that is when the need for a good attorney is needed and I have found a website that can help with Criminal and DUI issues. That website is http://www.keglawyers.com/. They are top rated attorneys specializing in Los Angeles County, San Fernando Valley and Santa Clarita Valley courtrooms. They are a top 5% US law firm specializing in criminal defense, and the firm partners are former Los Angeles prosecutors which means that they know their way through the justice system. The firm of Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin LLP have a combined total of 50 years experience.
When issues arise that you need expert assistance in answering questions that come to mind your best bet is to contact GOOD attorneys to help you. Go to http://www.keglawyers.com/ and contact the Los Angeles Criminal and DUI Defense Attorneys to help set your mind at ease and tell you what options you have. They speak English, Russian, Armenian and Spanish so language is not a problem.
If, for some reason you get into a situation and are taken to jail and are given one phone call, don't waste your call, calling a relative call the Los Angeles Criminal and DUI Defense Attorneys at their toll free number - 877-781-1570 anytime 24/7. Get the ball rolling for your defense.
An aggressive defense can mean your case is rejected, dismissed or filed as a misdemeanor instead of a felony.
This is the firm you will want on your side so carry this phone number in your purse or wallet 877-781-1570 and don't be afraid to call. It is for your good.
Remember check out the website http://www.keglawyers.com/ to see what else they can help you with.

CHRISTMAS AND MUSIC

With the season almost over, do you realize that the Christams music will end until next year. Are you getting tired of hearing it or would you rather it continue throughout the year? In my opinion most of it can wait until next year but there are a few that I would like to hear periodicly during the year such as Oh Holy Night, Little Drummer Boy and White Christmas by Bing Crosby, just to name a few. How about you. Give us your thoughts about Christmas and Christmas music in the survey below.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON SPORTS CLOTHING?

When buying sports clothing what do you base your purchase on. Take the survey below and let us know your thoughts.

SANTA - PLEASE HELP US!

Pharr Texas news article tells of a 9 year old girl who's school assignment was to write a letter to Santa. In that letter she told that Andres Enrique Cantu sexually abused her and her sister as they either slept or did their homework. The abuse went on for 4 years. The girls letter to Santa launched an investigation and led to the first charge of continuous sexual abuse.
As I said about a previous article, it will be interesting so see what happens to this guy but unfortunately this will probably be the last we hear of it.
If by chance you are asking yourself what he did for a living, he was a computer lab aide at an alternative high school. He has not been accused of any crimes there, yet.
At least Santa answered her letter in the way of help.

HOW ARE YOU DIFFERENT FROM OTHERS?

All men are created equal. Are They? Take the following survey and tell how you are different.

PUTTING UP THE TREE ALONE - AIN'T NO FUN

When I was a kid, a long time ago, I can remember putting up the Christmas tree with someone. Either my mother or father or maybe all three of us, I was an only child. Even as a teenager there was always someone to assist with the lights and trimmings. When I got married in 1965 my wife and I always did things together and that meant buying and putting up the Christmas tree. My job was to put on the lights, at that point I would have to back away, sit on the couch and watch as my wife did her magic with the garland. It was always silver although in later years we (she) switched to gold. When that was done we both put on the ornaments. As the children arrived and started school the ornaments started to include handmade items made at school to mom or dad and mom and dad with the year and name of the child who made it. Over the years the handmade ornaments began to add up and of course they all had to be hung on the tree along with any new ones my wife picked up. This too was a family thing with each child having to place theirs in a specific spot. Figure 3 kids, one or two ornaments from school and scouts they began to add up, but they all still got put on the tree.
When all of the kids were gone it again was just my wife and I to put up the tree. In September 2005 we took a trip to Frankenmuth, Michigan (the Christmas town) with my brother-in-law and sister-in-law and visited Bronner's Christmas Wonderland. What a neat place. If you can't find what you want in the form of decorations for Christmas there you ain't' gonna find it.
On October 3, 2005 my wife had a stroke and was hospitalized until February 13, 2006 when she went to heaven to live. Of course that left only me to put up the tree in 2005 since she was in the hospital. With the lights on it was up to me to put the garland on, nobody can do it as well as Andie, but I did it anyway. When it came time to put the ornaments on I found a bag from Bronner's Christmas Wonderland with special ornaments she purchased when we were there. I hung them on the tree and as I opened each box I found one that said "Our 40th Christmas Together", you see October 9 was our 40th wedding anniversary and she had her stroke on October 3rd. That special ornament will always be on any tree I put up.
So like I said "PUTTING UP THE TREE ALONE - AIN'T NO FUN.

SPITZTUNES - CHEER & FEAR

FOR THE FUN OF IT TAKE THIS SURVEY AND LET US KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS.

FISH STORY

This is a fish story from Buna, Texas. Why is it that only in Texas they have big fish stories to tell but I guess all states have their own. The name of the person who caught the fish was not mentioned in the newspaper but it happened at Lake Sam Rayburn in Texas. A man was casting and casting and casting when he got a hit, a big hit. He struggled to reel his catch in and that catch happened to be a 8 pound bass. Nice size for eating. When day was done and time to clean the days catch and enjoy a good meal the man was surprised when he opened the bass and found a class ring from the year 1987. The inscription inside the ring was Joe Richardson. When contacted Joe said he had lost the ring while he was fishing. That was 21 years ago. Is this a Christmas miracle or what?

ZENNI OPTICAL FOR YOUR EYEGLASSES

I know I need glasses and my insurance doesn't cover them. What I will probably do is get my exam and go to the following website to get my eyeglasses. That website being http://zennioptical.com/. You ask why, just go to the site and see for yourself. A pair of single vision eyeglasses start at $8.00, bi-focals start at just $25.oo, progressive eyeglasses start at just $37.00. Not only are the prices good but you also get FREE anti scratch coating, FREE UV protection and FREE lens edge polishing and beveling. Of course there are upgrades that are available to you if you want them.
In today's economy and with the way prices are at other eyeglass establishments it will be worth your while to visit http://zennioptical.com/ and see what they have to offer before you go elsewhere.
You can choose from a wide variety of frames at very reasonable prices and understand that no matter how many eyeglasses you order, shipping is only $4.95. Why can they sell frames for less is that the manufacture their own frames and by doing this they cut out the middleman.
If you are looking at ways to cut your spending, Zenni Optical can help you to cut corners in these times.
Do yourself a favor and visit http://zennioptical.com/ to save on eyeglasses.

HOW MANY HAVE TO GET HURT?

Last Friday there was an employee of Wal-Mart trampled to death in New York by eager shoppers wanting to get to their treasures. Today I read in the paper that at a Menards store in Hammond Indiana a person was trampled as the doors opened for early morning shopping. Again where was crowd control? As I blame Wal-Mart for the death of their employee I also blame Menards for the injury of a shopper entering their store. These stores and others should have people, not one or two but as many as it takes to control the crowds who enter their stores at these reticules hours just to save a few dollars. At the Menards store it is said that people were waiting in line for hours while others sat in the warmth of their cars, and when the doors opened, those in the cars got out and went right to the doors without getting in line. This is where crowd control is needed. I wonder what the statistics are for people getting hurt on BLACK-FRIDAY as they entered stores.

ENGAGE WITH GRACE - EYE OPENING EXPERIENCE

If you had a choice of dying at home or in a hospital, which would you choose.
Take the following survey and log on to the following website http://engagewithgrace.org/About.aspx#video and listen to this story. It may help to make a few choices.

THANKSGIVING

Tomorrow is turkey day. A day for eating and watching football (if you are inclined to do that) I will be having dinner with my son and his family at Gino's. We will be enjoying a buffet Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings. My daughter Julie will be going to southern Illinois with her husband Mike and daughter Delaney to be with Mike's grandmother. It's nice that they do that because she is up in years. My daughter Lorri will be having dinner at a friends home since her husband is at work and her mother-in-law is going to a realtives house and didn't invite Lorri and the kids. So what, that's the way they are. So as it is we will be thinking of each other and feasting on good food. Of course phone calls will be made wishing a good and happy Thanksgiving. Each of us will give thanks quietly and remembering those who are not with us any longer such as my wife. Happy Thanksgiving sweetheart.
To all that read this blog. I wish you a very happy and safe Thanksgiving.

WHAT DOES CHRISTMAS MEAN TO YOU.

Christmas means a lot of different things to a lot of people. Myself, I enjoy the festive atmosphere of the lights, decorations, music and by no means I do not forget that it is the birth of Christ. Too many people think that it is a time for giving gifts from Santa. Folks, all you are doing is giving the retailers more money in their pockets.
Take the survey below and let us know what you think.

DOG PROBLEMS 2

As I said before, my daughter has two Dobermans. Lena and Lexy. Lena was hit buy a car Friday night and is doing well.
Last night my daughter Julie called and asked if I ever heard of Macadamia nuts being poisonous to dogs. I heard that they can die from eating chocolate but not nuts. Lexy ate a large bag of macadamia nuts and was just lying there and not moving. I suggested that she call a vet and ask them. She did and they told her that the nuts were very toxic to animals and the dog might leave this world. They suggested that they force a cup of peroxide into her to make her vomit and then get activated charcoal and make her take that and that the charcoal would absorb any toxins that she did not throw up. As of this morning she is still with us but is having a hard time walking. I guess we will have to play the waiting game.
Question: has anyone heard of these macadamia nuts causing death to dogs?

DOG PROBLEMS 1

My daughter has two Dobermans, one named Lena and the other Lexie. Lena is very calm and quiet but loves to get off of her chain and run away. They have found her wandering around inside CVS Pharmacy. That would be scary for customers because she is a BIG dog. Well to get on with the story. Friday night I received a call from my daughter to look-up the phone number for the emergency animal clinic. Lena had been hit by a car. At first sight of her Julie thought she was not of this world anymore but she wasn't. They put her into the car and took her home. Upon calling the vet she found out that just to walk in the door was $95.00 and then from there you could add on x-rays, stitches, which she needed plus other things, the price would come to almost $1,000 which is hard to come by. Mike, her husband said to put her down and there is a healthy fee to have that done. Money that they didn't have. It turned out that Mike played doctor himself by cleaning the wounds and stitching her up himself. She is getting along fine but kind of mopes around, I would too if I got hit by a car. We can only pray that she does not have any internal injuries which I am sure would have shown up by now one way or another.
Ah, the price of owning a dog.

SUPERCHARGER AND TURBO PROFESSIONALS

Do you need speed in your vehicle?, do you want speed and power in your vehicle?. Well I can steer you to a website that specializes in these and other auto parts and that site is http://www.superchargerpros.com/. If you are in the need for a supercharger look them up and you will be surprised at their great prices and superb customer service. They have thousands of superchargers, turbochargers and nose covers in stock with complete warranties and are ready to ship today. While visiting their website you will find that you have the option to search for new parts, other auto parts, learning center and you can contact them if you have any questions. They have available mercedes supercharger and items like pontiac supercharger and buick supercharger just to name a few. Myself, I own a Honda van so I don't really need a supercharger, but if I had a car and wanted to soup it up I would look into a supercharger or turbocharger to get the power that I wanted and the folks at http://www.superchargerpros.com/ can explain the difference and what would be best for your needs.

A TURBOCHARGER FOR YOU

Speed, speed, speed. That is what is wanted in today's world. As a kid, long ago that is what I wanted in my car and to date things have not changed. Back in the day they didn't have what is needed today and I'm talking about turbochargers. I have come across a website that has everything you need to put in you vehicle to blow the competition away. That website it http://www.turbochargerpros.com/. Go there and see what they have to offer in the way of turbo's, turbo chargers, super chargers and nose covers. You have to realize that forcing air into the auto system greatly increases horsepower, torque and much, much more. Can you imagine what would happen if you had a Volkswagen turbocharger. Wow! stand back.
If I was going to put something into my car I would love a supercharger to get the energy and power. The supercharger is easier to install and the drawback is that they are a little expensive.
On this website http://www.turbochargerpros.com/ you can search for new parts, various auto parts, consult their learning center, learn more about their products. You can contact them and they have other recommended links.
Check them out and get your car performing at top speed the way you want it to.

STORM WATCHERS - WASTE OF TIME

Last night, Sunday, I was visiting with my son. He threw a couple of pizza's in the oven and they kind of hit the spot. We sat back to watch some tv, nothing special just channel flipping. We came across this program called "Storm Chasers" which is a program about people chasing storms looking for tornado's. I was an hour of see this, look at that, this thing isn't working, oh my God, it's getting closer and we can't stay here and we are doing it for science. Every once in a while one of the, (stars?) would yell out "look in the sky", "look how dark the clouds are" and "I think is see a tornado" Of course you look in the sky for tornado's and clouds and there are also dark clouds when it is going to rain and if he did see a tornado, I didn't. Maybe I just don't have that trained eye. When something pick up a barn, car or whatever, then I know I have seen a tornado. Another thing that fascinated me was all the expensive technical equipment they had and it didn't work. They had to rely on a simple lap top. My son never made it through the program, sleep overcame him. It was a waste of time and I hope it is cancelled soon and leave programs like My Own Worst Enemy on for us to enjoy.

MEMORIES MEMORIES!!!!

Yesterday I received in the mail a catalog from HobbyTown USA which is a hobby shop in my town. As I flipped through the pages I saw all the neat things they have for the kids and adults today that were not available when I was a kid back in the 40's and 50's or if they did I couldn't afford them. I am referring to remote controlled helicopters, three dimensional puzzles, wooden train sets, race car sets that run on winding tracks and remote controlled cars. When I got near the end of the book I turned the page and there they were, something that I could relate too. The monsters of the rails and I'm talking about the trains. O gauge and HO gauge, passenger and freight trains, freight cars and passenger cars with lighted domes. This brought back memories because I had a Lionel freight train with an engine that blew smoke, a cattle car where the cattle moved out of the car onto a platform and back into the car again, and many more unique working cars. I had gates that went up and down when the train approached, a man that came out of a building to wave a lantern, switches and many more things that go along with a very nice train setup. As it turned out, my father gave it all away to a guy so he would build a bathroom in the basement of our house. This was done when I was in the Army. Can you imagine what the set would be worth today? In today's market a Lionel train is not by no means cheap. In this catalog the Santa Fe El Capitan passenger train with engine and three cars plus track is $369.99. What a Christmas present that would make for a kid.
Looking at books like this sure brings back memories, memories.

BE AWARE OF WHAT IS AROUND YOU.

With the retailers pushing the Christmas shopping season this is the time of awakening of the undesirable people who will crawl out of the sewers, walls and wherever else they hide. Keep an eye on your belongings such as purses, KIDS and purchased items. Don't lay purses or purchased items on counters or floors because with the number of people in the stores and restaurants it will be gone in a minute. When looking for a parking space, get as close to the door as possible and if you can, go during daylight. Be aware of who, if anybody, is following you. Don't go to the washroom alone if possible and if you do, be aware of who is in there with you. Also beware of pick-pockets. Men, if you can wear jackets to cover the back pockets of your pants. One thing that I do is carry my wallet my jacket pocket where I can feel it.
Have a safe shopping season.

ZOO - YOUR ANIMALS

I like zoo's. Every year we manage to get to one of the two zoo's that are located in the Chicagoland area. One is Brookfield Zoo and the other is Lincoln Park Zoo. Lincoln Park is free and Brookfield is a pay zoo. The Lincoln Park Zoo is more convienent because all the buildings and animals are close together whereas Brookfield requires a lot of walking. One thing that I enjoy about Brookfield is their Dolphin show. When watching it there is a lot of excitement involved and it is almost a circus atmosphere. As far a having a favorite animal I would have to say it is the monkey's. I could watch them for hours on their monkey island.
I can say that when I visited my daughter in Florida I really enjoyed the St. Petersburg Zoo with the beautiful flowers and the open concept that surronded the animals. No bars, or fences, just original or manmade landscapes.
When in Texas I went to the San Antonio Zoo, although it was 110 degrees I still enjoyed it for it's openess and beauty and good shows. I don't know if you can concider Sea World a zoo but that place, again in San Antonio, blew me away with it's show's.
If every in the Chicagoland area I would suggest that you visit one or both of the fine zoos that we have here.

HALLOWEEN TRADITION A GOOD THING

Halloween is a happy time for kids and the school that my granddaughter goes to, Protsman, thinks the same thing. What happens before Halloween is of course the parties at school but this is carried on step further. There is a parade at the school for the parents to see. The whole school exits one door and walks around the school for everyone to see their costumes. All parents, grandparents and friends and whoever else wants to see, are lined up as the children go by and every guest is calling their child's name to "look this way", "smile" and whatever else is needed to make a good picture. The whole thing lasts about 2o minutes but it is a tradition at school that is liked by all and will continue on for years.

PAROLED OFFENDERS MUST GO TO HALLOWEEN MEETINGS

Trick or Treating should be a happy time for our kids and parents not having to worry about sex offenders who live in the neighborhood. Maybe you know who they are, maybe not. Well the State of Indiana has taken a step forward to keep these people away from your children at least during the trick or treating hours. It is called Operation Safe Halloween where it is mandatory for most paroled sex offenders MUST attend the Halloween meeting. If they don't they could have their parole revoked. This has been going in Indianapolis since 2004 but this year it has been expanded throughout the whole state. Good idea but that doesn't mean that some creeps are still out there who have not been caught and are not on parole. Keep our kids safe. GO WITH THEM AND CHECK WHAT IS IN THEIR TRICK OR TREAT BAG. To all of the little one's, have a good time and be safe.

GRADUATE JOBS AND CAREER INFORMATION

If you are a graduate or are going to graduate and are undecided about what you want to do or where you want to go I suggest that you look into the following website and you will get hundreds of ideas, that site being http://www.eurograduate.com/. Here you can view a careers database, education database and get information about working abroad. All the information is at your fingertips. If you are interested in the careers database click on the title and an array of subjects will come up. You can search any combination of industry, type of occupation, degree /diploma qualification or country of employment. If you are really interested, click on Recruiter login and do what is says. Log in.
This is the site where you can find graduate jobs and careers information Want to further your education or find work abroad, this is the site to visit. They can help you with all of your needs and give you all the information you will require. I can tell you one thing, if I were not retired a graduate looking for a job career this is where I would look. It's all here and there are people to help you. Do yourself a favor and log into http://www.eurograduate.com/ to get your career job underway.

PRIMETIME TV - FALL 2008

TV TV TV. I think that for many American families this is a very large past time that people can't break away from and I think that the tv networks and advertisers know this. There is big money involved in this and they are counting on you to listen about and buy their products. That is why the networks keep pushing the upcoming fall programs. I hate when I am watching a program and really get into it then I am distracted by some advertising of a program coming on next week or next month. Why then do they have tv guides in the Sunday papers or on your cable network. I already know what programs I am going to watch. My favorite being CSI. I am fascinated at how crimes are solved and I find the acting to be very good. I do watch other programs but not like I do CSI. Seeing that I do not have one of those fancy recording pieces on my cable I can't record other programs while watching one, so I am stuck watching only one at a time.

SUPPORT YOUR CANDIDATE - DRINK A BEER

Brilliant idea from a California brewery. Half Moon Bay Brewery Company on the Northern California coast is selling an ale. One says Obama and the other McCain. In this mock election held by the brewery, ale sold at the brewery encourages voters to vote early and vote ofter. At the brewery Obama and McCain figures are on separate tap handles. The ales are the same with one being lighter in content and the other is aged a long time. They are the same with one being the beer that the company normally produces only now it has a different label.
So far the Obama ale is outselling the McCain ale. Obama 6,170 bottles to McCain's 1,729. As well as selling pints at the brewery they are also distributing bottles to stores. So if you are undecided drink both until you get drunk and don't care who wins.
If you are curious about the "alection" as they call it, log onto http://hmbbrewingco.com/beer/alection.php to follow the alection results.

THE 'PROCEDURE''

Yes my friends today I had a procedure, one that invades the inner most being of an individual.
It all started yesterday about 5:00 pm when I had to drink a cleansing liquid called MoviPrep. Prior to that time I could only drink clear fluids and jello. Let me interject something here. Why do I have to pay $48.00 and my insurance company pay only $9.00 for something that makes me do the fifty yard dash to a shiny white bowl eight or nine time within a four hour period and then drink the same amount at 6:00 a.m. and do the same thing while trying to take a shower and get ready to go to the hospital at 10:00 to have someone invade my backside at 11:00. I should tell you that the amount of liquid comes to 48 ounces two times for a total of 96 ounces. My daughter Julie drove me to the hospital and I can tell you it is a scary feeling to be on your way and pray you don't have the feeling that you have to cleanse yourself further. Upon arriving at the hospital there are the usual 110 questions that I was asked the last time I was in the hospital. Then comes the insertion of the IV, fortunately this nurse was able to insert it on the first try, not like the last time when they could not find a vein. After this it was time to try and relax until they came to get me and deliver me to the "Procedure Room". My blood pressure was 212/189 so the lovely ladies there said try and relax we need to get your bp down. I did and it did come down to 181/164. The ladies injected something into my IV and as she did so said to me "good night". I was semi-awake for the procedure which didn't last long at all, then I heard the doctor say "done". He was happy with what he saw. So if he's happy I'm happy. Now I can enjoy my day.

ZENNI OPITICAL FOR YOUR GLASSES

Did you know that you should get your eyes checked once a year? This is extremely important if you are a diabetic. When you think about getting them checked all you can think of is how much is going to cost and can I afford it. Well then let me ask you a question. What brings down the cost of any item? Answer is cutting out the middleman. I have found just the place that does that and you can visit them at http://zennioptical.com/cart/home.php . Zenni Optical is the name and you can order any type of eyeglasses you need from a large selection of frames and prices. Single vision eyeglasses start as low as $8.00. All glasses include FREE UV protection, anti scratch coating and lens edge polishing and beveling. By checking the website you can also see the different upgrades available to you and their cost to you. Ordering is easy, just follow the steps to get the Zenni Optical glasses you want at the price you want. Need Bi-Focal glasses? These start as low as $25.00. So do yourself and your eyes a favor. Get your eyes checked once a year and if you need eyeglasses get them on line from Zenni Optical. Remember there is no middleman because they manufacture their own glasses just for you.
For further information about Zenni Optical check out the Chicago Tribune article about them at http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/yourmoney/chi-ym-spending-0722jul22,0,2050256.story .

CAMPING SEASON HAS ENDED

As I said, camping season has ended. No more golf cart rides, campfires, roasting marshmallows and seeing friends and whatever else comes with camping. Yesterday they turned off the water in the park but left it on for the weekend which was just beautiful. I took this weekend to put away all of the decorations that I had outside and covered up the golf cart which I store on the patio. It was a sad day because the season doesn't start until April 15th of next year. So all there is to look forward to is cold weather, ice and snow. All us campers are praying that this goes by fast. Oh well I guess we have to take the good with the bad. It will be good to see my friends next year at the old Yogi Bear Camp Resort in Plymouth, Indiana. Have a good winter y'all.

MY SUIT EXPERIENCE

I am a retired business man and always took pride at the way I dressed. They say clothes make the man. I would buy suites off the rack and they would look good but one day I decided to have a suit made. What a difference, a big difference and it didn't cost much more that buying off the rack. I am retired now but still have the suit and wear it to special occasions. I want to let you know that I have come across a company that makes suits at very reasonable prices and you can look them up at http://www.mysuitny.com/. Visit this site and see what they have to offer in the way of hand made suits. Go to http://www.mysuitny.com/, click on "My.Suit Experience" and take a tour of the My.Suit buying process. Three very simple steps will be followed, measuring, styling and fabric selection. Should you decide to purchase a suit, make an appointment from the convenient schedule on line to visit their store in New York at Herald Square, 33rd and Broadway where you will meet with a consultant who will take up to 30 measurements for your new suit. While on line you can choose from the many styles available to you and choose from the many fabrics that are also available to you. I can tell you one thing, there is nothing better that a Made to Measure suit to make you look like a million bucks.
My suit is a global company with over 40 years of manufacturing and retail experience. It is a division of one of the largest suit makers in the world. They sell made-to-measure suite at close to off-the-rack prices. If you are one of TODAY' S businessmen and with the way the things are today it would be wise to look into a Made to Measure suit. Also tell your friends about it.

SHE DID IT AGAIN

Yes, she did it again, she did it again only this time on a larger scale. I'm referring to Mother Nature and her magic paint brush that is touching the many trees and shrubs that mark the highways we travel to and from work or pleasure driving, if you can do that with today's gas prices. At any rate the landscape is just beautiful and venture to say that during the next few weeks it will get even better. All I can tell you is that if you have the time get out and look at this spectacular display of colors in our country side. This I'm sure will help you relax and forget the world situation for awhile. The kids will have a good time gathering the leaves and pressing them between the pages of books to preserve the colors. Enjoy the fall colors for they are here only for a short while.

NATURES PAINTING

Well it has just about come to the end of the camping season. Next weekend and possibly the next and that will be it. I hate to see it go but on the other hand the drive there and back for the next couple of weeks will be beautiful. Yesterday as I was driving home I saw the first strokes of Mother Nature's paint brush on the trees and shrubs. Faint colors of gold, red, yellow all blending together in the groves of trees along route 30 east of Valparaiso. With the cold nights we have been getting I imagine that the ride to the camper the next two weekends will be a real treat. Next weekend should show the colors brighter and enveloping more of the landscape. Too bad it doesn't last longer and I really feel sorry for the people who can't get out into the countryside and enjoy this show of nature. Enjoy it while it lasts.

THE WEDDING

Sunday was my friends, Steve and Dalene's, daughters wedding. It was on the shores of Lake Michigan in the Gary Beach Aquatorium building. Both downstairs and upstairs. Upstairs is where the ceremony was held as well as dinner and dancing. This is all open to the elements which was a little chilly and very windy. The ceremony was beautiful as was the bride, Jessica and the bridesmaids. As windy and chilly as it was, nobody seemed to mind as their thoughts and eyes were on the young couple exchanging vows to love and cherish each other forever.
After the ceremony there were cocktails and finger food downstairs which was enclosed. This was the place where you would greet and talk to old friends and make new one's.
Soon after, dinner was served upstairs, and I must say the food was excellent as was the music to go along with dinner. When all tummy's were full the music started giving those who chose to participate a chance to work off the great meal. I of course did not partake but used my energy to watch the beautiful young girls dance and show their stuff. My my how times have changed!!!!!. It is not good for a old mans heart.
I must say Steve and Dalene you did a wonderful job in making the center pieces and setting everything up. You did a GREAT job.

HALLOWEEN COMES TO YOGI BEAR

I know it is not time for spooks and goblins to roam the streets but this past weekend at Yogi Bear Camp Resort in Plymouth Indiana it was. Since the park closes on or about the 15th of October we kind of push Halloween a little early. This past weekend was the day. There were games, prizes, wagon rides, trick or treating and a haunted forest wagon ride. Starting at 9:30 there was a parade which kicked things off. Around noon there was a party (or lunch) of hot dogs, cookies, chips and drinks. A welcome treat for young and old. Later that day there were games with prizes and also door prizes were given out to the lucky winners. And of course there was trick or treating for all of the youngsters and some oldsters. As night approached and the wagon rides started you could hear the screams of frightened riders and the all familiar sound of a chain saw. Campers were decorated with spooky figures and lights casting an eerie glow combined with the glow of campfires throughout the campground.

My granddaughter Delaney was dressed as an army girl, uniform and boots while my neighbors son, Zane was dressed as a biker dude. Zane's cousins were also there dressed for the occasion.

Everyone could not have had a wonderful time if it had not been for the Recreation Department and the many, many volunteers that were part of this day. Many thanks to all of you.

THE CAMPER

If you look up the word camping the definition reads "temporary living area", "to live outdoors". This may be true if you tent camp for a week or weekend as many people do. My family and I camped in a pop-up camper that you pull behind a car. We did this for many years and had some good times. About fifteen plus years ago we had camped for a week. It was one of the hottest weeks of the summer and of course no air conditioning. The wife and two of the kids came down with the flu. Good thing we were next to the comfort station. Upon going home at the end of the week I put the pop-up on the driveway and opened it to get our food and gear out. Being that it was late I didn't put it down. That night a freak storm came through the area and flipped it upside down, wheels up in the air. When we discovered it the next morning I swear I heard my wife say under her breath "Thank you Lord". Years later she got the bug again and said lets buy another camper. I said pop-up? There was a quick reply NO a park model. We bought the lot at Yogi Bear Camp Resort in Plymouth Indiana, bought our park model with running water and a porcelain flush toilet. My wife and I have really enjoyed it but unfortunately she passed away almost three years ago now. She loved that place. I thought of selling after she left but then I thought this was our place so I should stay. It is nice and peaceful there because it overlooks a lake and I have made some good friends whom I share campfires with as well as jokes and good conversation on the weekends. Id like to show you our home away from home.

GETTING READY FOR IKE

As I have mentioned before, my daughter lives in a small town in Texas called Shiner. Population the last time I saw the sign was 2007 people. They are getting ready for the arrival of Ike, the hurricane approaching the east coast of Texas. In it's path is Houston, Victoria. Galveston, just to mention a few. My daughter is about three hours from the coast. 100 miles from Houston and 48 miles from Victoria. The decision was to be made at 10:00 am today if it was a mandatory evacuation but turned out to be voluntary. She and her neighbors have boarded their windows that face east, tied down anything that can blow away, cleared the deck of all furniture and plants, stocked up on food, water, batteries and flashlights and candles. They have evacuated the nursing homes in Victoria and have placed 300 patients into the nursing home in Shiner as well as Molten. Not only have they received the new patients but there are also regular citizens arriving to get out of harms way. My daughters husband is on a oil rig north of Houston and will be leaving there tomorrow to head home to be with his family. Being in Indiana, all I can do is wait for phone calls from there and watch the weather channel and pray. At this time all prayers are welcome.

FOR WANT OF A PIZZA

Lake Station Indiana. Three people sitting around, 38 year old mom, 18 year old son and 30 year old boyfriend. One says lets get a pizza and it turns out nobody has money to pay for it. Mom comes up with a brainstorm and it concerns robbing the pizza delivery person. The order was called in giving the address of an abandoned home down the street. Upon arriving at the address she was struck in the head by one of the men with THE CLUB a device that locks the steering wheel of a car. The mother is the one who gave the men THE CLUB and told them to beat the delivery person with it. The delivery person was hit in the head and hand but was able to get to her car and drive off. The criminals did steal three pizza's for their efforts. After the assault the men threw the weapon into a river where it was later recovered when one of the men showed police where they had thrown it. The 18 year old also threw his shoes into the river because they had pizza sauce on them, they were also recovered.

The result of this stupidity is that the delivery person received a plate in her head and four metal pins placed in her hand. As silly as it may sound, any delivery job that involves going to a home a night is dangerous and not enough care can be taken to avoid this kind of thing happening. I can only hope that the three of these people get more that just a slap on the wrist. How about one year for each pizza they stole, one year for each pin in her hand and two years for the metal plate she has in the head. I will watch the paper to see the results of this deed and pass it on.

IT'S OVER

Yes folks, it's over. The summer festivities I mean. Lorri and the kids are back in Texas going to school, Delaney is going to school here and the last big weekend of the camping season was this past weekend. What a beautiful weekend it was, at least where I was, beautiful blue skies, warm and a lot of activities for everyone to enjoy. Sure we have some weekends yet to enjoy but it doesn't seem the same as when they happen before Labor Day. The campground closes around October 15 so that ends the camping season until next April. It's only for six months but with the cold weather, ice and snow it seem like an eternity. But it's something to look forward too. During the winter months one doesn't keep in touch with the friends you have at the camper except for a Christmas card, so it is nice to see them when the season starts again.

Like I said before things are back to normal so I am taking this opportunity to spic and span my house. Today I am cleaning the front part, spare bedroom, computer room, foyer and small bathroom. Shampooing the carpet, dusting and washing the ceramic floors. Good exercise. Well it's time to get back to cleaning so will talk to you all later.

THE FOUNTAIN

I must admit that the Yogi Bear campground where I have a camper is really putting effort into sprucing the place up. They have painted, planted put up fencer etc. and it really looks nice. One attraction is a beautiful water fountain that I can see from my camper. It sits in the lake about 50 yards from my camper. It has 16 spouts that shoot water about one story into the air and that water curves at the top to give it a beautiful display. At night it has colored lights of red, blue, green and yellow that give it the appearance of being a crystal chandelier. I have noticed that people will stop and sit for awhile looking at the fountain. The money for this fountain was donated from proceeds of the functions at the park which are held on weekends. I thank them for such a beautiful addition to the park.

AWSOME FAT LOSS PROGRAM

If your like me, I can honestly say that I have been on many, many diets only to have them fail and do nothing for me. Well I found this website that I believe has the answer to my and possibly your problems. This program works faster than Jenny Craig and you can visit the site at Jenny Craig. With this plan you can lose 10 pounds every 7 days and it revolves around eating the right foods at the right time of day.

Here are some facts about fat loss:
Low calorie diets are extremely dangerous.
Low carb plans are too strict.
Low fat foods just don't work.
Weight Watcher and Jenny Craig plant take too long.

With the help of Dr. Raj Banerjee you can start losing 10 pounds every 7 days with a surprisingly simple rapid fat loss plan, generated specifically for your wants, needs and desires. The program is called the Fat Burning Diet Generator. Visit this website http://www.thefatlossguru.com/ to find why you are struggling to burn fat.

Of course this plan is going to cost money, but keep in mind how this plan is going to help you understand, in depth, how to lose fat and keep it off. Visit the site http://www.thefatguru.com/ and read about the plan and you decide if this is worth the money. But don't worry. You have 60 days to lose as much as you want-if you don't lose fat you get 100% of your money back. How good is that? It is really refreshing to find a diet that can help with your weight loss as well as help fix chronic illnesses like diabetes, hormonal problems, adrenal fatigue and other problems. It will only take a few minutes of your time to log on and read about this wonderful new program. This program even works better and faster than Weight Watchers

WOMENS BEACH VOLLEYBALL

Last night was another night of watching the Olympics. One of the events that I have enjoyed throughout the games is the women's beach volleyball. I consider this a fast action from beginning to end sport. Watching the team of Kerri Walsh and Misty May-Treanor was shear delight. They dominated the court every time they were on it. I believe they let the other teams score points just to make the game interesting. They certinly earned their GOLD MEDAL I know that they want to start families soon and I hope this does not interfere in their competing in the next Olympics. It's hard to believe that nobody can beat them considering that they have won 108 matches. I will look forward to seeing them in the next Olympics. I now consider myself a beach volleyball fan because of the action involved or maybe it's the uniforms they wear. Either way it is a good sport to watch.

THE SWIMMER - MICHAEL PHELPS

I have been watching the Olympics, especially the swimming and gymnastics. Both categories were excellent although in gymnastics I don't say that I agree with the judging system, but that is another story. I was amazed at Michael Phelps the American swimmer. Where does he get that strength and energy? I know he is a big boy but even still. He just seems to glide through the water with no effort at all. I would love to eat meals like he does and not gain weight, but he does burn off the calories during practice. With his accomplishments last week his life should change from an average young man who watches tv, sleeps, plays video games and eats to someone of a higher elevation, and I don't mean height. I heard on the news this morning that he will be on a cereal box. Not Wheaties like everyone thought but on the Kellogg box. And it was also said that he will earn about $50M this year. What a life change. I wish I had practiced the breast stroke, back stroke and whatever else when I was a kid, but my bath tub was not big enough instead I played the ACCORDIAN which is now in the closet.

I also could not help watching his mother during all of this. She looked somewhat calm but I'm sure inside she was a bundle of nerves. She can hold her head high for she did a good job with this young man. Good luck in the future Michael.

PASSING OF DEB

If any of you good folks recall. About six months ago I asked for your prayers for a friend, Debbie Banasiak who had a lung transplant. Her husband Joe and daughters Katie and Amanda were vigilant in going to the hospital every day. I know how strenuous this can be. Deb's fight for recovery and return home to her family was a never ending battle with one setback after another, infection after infection, crisis after crisis. Just like my wife there would be a light at the end of the tunnel for a couple of days and then that light would go out. Deb was a very brave and strong person as was her family.

In this closing paragraph it is with sadness that I must say Deb passed into a better life, Sunday, August 10,2008 at the age of 58, a young woman who will remain in so many hearts for a long, long, long time. God bless you Debbie Banasiak.

GOING TO THE CAMPER ALONE

Since the beginning of time I have been going to the camper with someone. Either my wife or Angelica who lived with me for a year and Delaney and my dog Mandy who passed three weeks ago. Since that time, my wife has passed and as of Monday Angelica has moved back to Texas with her mother and brothers. I have Delaney during the day then her mother picks her up after work so that leaves me alone at night which is really strange. Tomorrow I will go the camper and will attempt to finish staining my deck. For the past month I have had Lorri and the kids to keep me company but now they are gone. Who knows, maybe I will enjoy the quiet and find some time for myself. Looking forward to it?

THE PERFECT STORM

It started out beautiful and sunny. The morning was perfect with the weather warm and the grand kids still sleeping I was able to grab myself a cup of coffee and go out on the patio to enjoy the morning and the quiet. About ten, people started to stir and at that point things changed. Grandpa I'm hungry, grandpa Spencer is picking on me and so forth. With all of this being taken care of the day progressed. About three in the afternoon Spencer, Delaney and Angelica wanted to go around the lake, that being a small lake in the sub-division where I live that is about 4 blocks round. The clouds were gathering and you could hear the rumble of thunder in the distance. I told the kids to stay near the house because it was going to rain. Our weatherman, Spencer, said "look grandpa, the clouds are not that dark". With their persistence I said they could go but they would get wet. About five minutes after they left, this would put them about half way around, a few drops of rain hit the ground. I went through the house to the open garage when the skies opened up. I kept looking down the street for the kids, there wasn't any lightning or thunder so I wasn't worried about that. Two blocks down I saw three figures round the corner, two on bikes and one on a scooter coming down the street as if being chased by a herd of wild bulls. As they got closer you could hear the screams and as they got even closer you could see there was not a dry piece of clothing on any of them. Screaming, laughing and smiling the three of them rushed into the garage, glad to be safe at home. We had a good laugh that Spencer shouldn't be a weatherman when he gets older. They had a good time and talked about it for a long time.

WORK BOOTS USA

If you are in a trade where you are required to wear work boots, especially steel toed work boots, you may want to check out this website. http://www.workbootsusa.com/ . At Work Boots USA you will find famous brands such as Wolverine, Bates, Magnum and Converse just to name a few. And should you decide to purchase a pair of these great boots there is FREE SHIPPING on orders of $50.00 or more which is a considerable savings right there. And with the purchase of selected boots you can get a free pair of socks. It will take just a moment of your time to log into http://www.workbootsusa.com/ and select a pair to suit your needs.

Look at the different styles available to you such as soft toe, insulated, side zip, slip resistant, oxford's and the ever popular composite toe and steel toe boots Military and uniform boots are also available for purchase. Go to their website and look at the categories such as Best Sellers, What's Hot and Featured Brands. It's all there for that one stop shopping experience. No fighting crowds, and traffic and you can be assured that you are getting the best price for boots that you need and want. Do yourself a favor and visit http://www.workbootsusa.com/ today.

STICK IT TO CHINA

A few weeks ago I received an e-mail saying we, Americans, should hurt China buy not buying products made there. When purchasing something, look at the bottom of the item and if it says made in China, put it back and buy an American made item. The e-mail targeted Wal-Mart.

I was at my camper this past week and was in the process of staining my deck. I needed a new brush so I went to, yep, Wal-Mart. I went to the isle where there sold the paint equipment to look for a brush. I picked up a brush in a plain plastic wrapper because it was the cheapest price. I turned it over and yes, it was made in China. Looking around I saw a name brand brush, higher in price, and looked at the back. It was distributed by a company in Nappanee, Indiana and yes I was prepared to pay more for an American made item. Reading further I discovered this too was made in China. Same brush. Unfortunately I needed the brush and didn't have time to go around looking for an American made brush, so I bought the made in China brush. Next time I will go to ACE Hardware or Sears and maybe, just maybe they will have an American made brush.

A FRIEND CAME HOME YESTERDAY

As I have written before a very good friend of mine passed away on the first of July. Her name was Mandy and she was a West Highland Terrier. A real beauty. I had her cremated and her ashes returned to me in a beautiful Chinese urn, white with blue flowers. This may sound crazy but the urn sits on the top of my entertainment center along with the picture of my beloved wife who passed two and a half years ago. Mandy was my wife's dog but Mandy and I became very good friends after my wife passed. Needless to say I miss both of my girls and that's why I have Mandy's ashes and my wife's picture on the entertainment center. At least that way I can have both of them near me. I know she is just a dog, but to me she was a special dog and friend. Welcome home Mandy.

When she passed I cried and when I took her remains to the vet I cried. When I left it was easier. Yesterday when I went to pick up the ashes I thought I would just pick them up and leave but when the doctor brought out the box the hurt came back even stronger and again I cried. The female doctor gave me a hug to help ease the pain. With tears in my eyes I accepted the box and walked the full length of the store not getting out soon enough and came home.

I love dogs but will never have another and have to go through this again.

ZENNI OPTICAL

If you are in the need for eyeglasses and are looking for inexpensive glasses I highly recommend Zenni Optical. Visit their website at http://zennioptical.com/. You can get 1.57 High Index Lens Complete Prescription Eyeglasses from just $8.00. Depending on what you want they can supply you with complete Bi-Focal's starting at just $25.00 and complete Progressive eyeglasses starting at $37.00. Included with your purchase you get Anti Scratch coating - FREE -, UV protection -FREE-, and Lens Edge polishing and Beveling -FREE-. Also on this website you can see what upgrades they have to offer you. Frames? They have frames of all styles to fit everyones fancy. Frames come in metal, plastic and acetate. No matter how many pairs of glasses you order, shipping and handling is on $4.95 per order. Do yourself a favor and visit ZenniOptical.com and see how you can get quality eyeglasses at a reasonable price.

GOOD FOURTH OF JULY

The fourth was a beautiful day. Mother nature was kind to us with pleasant temperatures and partly sunny sky's. The morning was filled with hustle and bustle of preparing food and cleaning because we were have friends over for a BBQ. At 12:30 we left for the Crown Pointe, IN parade. Found a great parking space near the parade route. My grandchildren from Texas don't see parades like we have here so they were really excited. Parade started right on time with the usual fire trucks and police cycles and cars with sirens blasting. Each child was equipped with a bag to fill with candy as people on the trucks and floats and horses were throwing huge amounts of candy to everyone on the parade route. After seeing numerous trucks, politicians and church groups the Crown Point High School Cheer Leaders came by. My 9 year old grandson, Spencer's, eyes lit up because the girls were wearing short shorts. His comment was "now this is more like it. They are showing a lot of leg". Is he growing up or what?. All in all it was a nice parade, the kids got a lot of candy and my daughter and I got a good sunburn.
We left the parade and went home to prepare for our guests. We had taco salad, fruit bowl, hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, baked beans, strawberry jello with whipped cream, potato salad, noodle salad, pickles and the best of all was the sugar tasting corn on the cobb not to mention the sugar tasting watermelon. That made my sugar count go up. We ate, sat back and had good conversation and waited until dark to do fireworks. My daughter stopped in Missouri and bought fireworks at a place called Boom Town. I'm sure a few of you have passed or stopped at this place. She bought some great fireworks. One was an American flag with what she thought were fire crackers. Directions said to place on a flat surface and we did not know they meant lay it down so we stood it on end so we could see the flag. It was lit and it started shooting little rockets at us. Everybody scattered. My friend Steve kicked it down to lay flat and for at least five minutes it shot little plastic rockets that went into the air like little spirals. We were laughing at the way everyone was running for cover that my granddaughter wet her pants. I know it's not funny now that we think back on it. Nobody got hurt and we had good fireworks not only at my house but throughout the whole neighborhood. Spent all of this morning picking up the aftermath of our good time last nite. I know yours was just as good.
Thanks Dalene, Steve, Mia and Mia, Gage, Lorri, Delaney, Trent, and Aiddin for making my fourth of July a good one.

GREAT SHOW

From the time I was a kid I loved fireworks. When I was a kid you could buy huge sets of fireworks from ads off the back of comic books. The fire crackers were cherry bombs, m-80s and I think some were like half sticks of dynamite, rockets, fountains. You name it and it was there. The price was usually around $10.00. When you unwrapped the fire crackers and added them to the cherry bombs and other things you would get an entire shopping bag full of stuff. One year, I was about 10, I went to the beach with some of my parents friends and we were going back to my house for a BBQ and fireworks. After we had been at the beach for a couple of hours this friend, an adult, told me I should put a shirt on because I was getting burned. Of course I didn't listen and by the time night came I looked like a lobster and my legs were so burned I could hardly walk. My dad was afraid that I would kill myself with the fire crackers so he took a railroad flare and stuck it into the shopping bag. What a show that was along with the bottle rockets, sky rockets and fountains. With my sunburn I was laid up for a few days and believe me I never did that again. In those days there was no such thing as sun block.
Just thought I would share that little 4th story with you. Have a great and safe 4th.

A FRIEND HAS PASSED

In the year 1995 a friend of my wife and I was born. The cutest little thing you could possible envision. It was a West highland Terrier and we named her Mandy. At the end of nine weeks we brought her home to be part of our family. Wonderful friend and companion. She was my wife's friend more than mine, maybe because my wife was with her all day and I worked. She was gentle, friendly and was always there to listen to our problems. After listening she would let us know that everything would be alright by wagging her tail and giving us a big sloppy kiss and a bark. My wife passed away two years ago and Mandy was lost but as time went on we got closer and closer. Over the last year she developed an enlarged heart and a few other problems, but that didn't seem to bother her. It was in the last week that things went drastically down hill with her not drinking or eating and steadily getting weaker and weaker. Yesterday she could hardly walk and I had to pick her up to take her out. About seven last night I put her out to do her stuff and all she did after I set her down was to lay down and do her stuff in that position. I brought her in and layed her on a towel where she stayed without moving or lifting her head. About 9 pm my daughter and I went out and sometime between then and 10:45 she went to join my wife. I will really miss her because it's like losing my wife all over again. The pain is there and so are the memories. Take good care of each other Andie and Mandy. I love you both and miss you both.

COSTUME CAULDRON IS WHERE IT'S AT

I hate to say this but Halloween is coming up fast. So fast as a metter of fact you may want to check out Costume Cauldron at http://www.costumecauldron.com/. See what they have to offer and then go to Wak-Mart and buy the same thing. Maybe. I checked out the adult costumes and what a bummer. They didn't have a Jack Dainels bottle costume. I made one, one year and everyone kept putting Jack Daniels down me. The evening was short and I didn't remember if I had a good time of not. In looking in the adult section at some of the costumes available, this company should be shut down and the owners arrested. is their name so don't forget it. Or maybe you should. They have everything you may need in the way of costumes and accessories. Makeup of any kind you can imagine. But remember, once you use the makeup they won't take it back because that thhe kind of people they are. They do have a return policy and they do not charge sales tax which is a savings in itself.
When I scanned the sexy costume section I came across two that I would like to buy and have my neighbors try on. One is the Eskimo Cuti and the other is the fishnet bodystocking with a V back. I'm sure you have different tastes but for now those are my favorites. If you know of a party where these will be worn, please call me and let me know.
Halloween parties can be fun, but with Halloween> costumes from Costume Cauldron can be even more fun and you may even be the talk of the party. When it comes time I will be ordering one from them and yes shipping is only $6.99. They not only have adult costumes, they have costumes for kids, teenagers, infants, toddlers and pets. Be sure to visit their website at http://www.costumecauldron.com/ and start looking to buy for Halloween.

GOING WESTERN (COWBOY)

As a child, which was a lo0000nnnnnggggg time ago my friends and I would love to play cowboys, good and bad. If course we all had cap guns with either one or two holsters hanging from our hips. Some of us even had a sheriffs badge to show we were on the side of the law. Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, Hoot Gibson and the Lone Ranger we very popular then. You know, for the longest time I called the Lone Ranger the Long Ranger. Don't ask me why. Maybe my hearing was bad. So for the longest time I was playing out the part of the wrong guy. We even had authentic cowboy shirts with snap buttons and fringe and sometimes chaps. We were cool. In those days cool meant lower temperature. Well anyway that fad passed and it wasn't until years later that I once again put on cowboy shirts and boots and that was because I got into a teenage Country Western group called the Junior Jamboree. We did fairs and traveled through Wisconsin performing at various Lodges during the summer months.That lasted about two years and when the high school years ended so did the group. The reason I'm telling you all of this is because if you live in the city and really want to get western go to Tractor Supply. That will put you in the heart of the west. Saddles and farm equipment and anything else you might need, even the people shopping there and working there look as if they just came from Texas or Wyoming. My granddaughter who comes from Texas loves to go there. I see all the western boots and shirts and it brings back memories of good times. Well today they had shirts with snap buttons and country look and I weakened to the old days and bought one. Haven't put it on yet to see what it looks like but it is a good looking shirt. Who knows if it looks good I might go back and get a few more. They were on sale. Regular $23.00 for $10.00. Maybe next time I will be writing about a horse.

LA POLICE GEAR

If you are in law enforcement and are in need of clothing or equipment give the following website a look. It is LA POLICE GEAR and you can find them at http://www.lapolicegear.com/. On this site there are hundreds of items at great prices. You will find gear bags on sale and if you buy $125.oo more of Blackhawk Products Group items, you will get free hat. Check out Blackhawks line of equipment and videos. Need clothing? LA POLICE GEAR had a complete line of 5.11 clothing. Pants, shirts, jackets and equipment. There is even kids clothes and equipment. Several items include free shipping and return shipping as well as a free hat. You can find a complete line of Tactical Assault Gear. LA POLICE GEAR carries a complete line of watches including the Luminox Navy Seal Watch. In need of a holster, body armor or other equipment, look them up at http://www.lapolicegear.com/. With many of these items there is free shipping and return shipping as I have mentioned before.

When you visit the website you will find a user friendly website where you can get free quotes and live help.

BIG WEEKEND

Coming this Saturday is the once a year event at the Yogi Bear campground where fortunes can be made and treasures can be found. Yes folks I am talking about the annual GARAGE SALE throughout the entire campground. You name it and I bet you can find it for sale on someones camp lot. The public is invited without having to know someone to get in. It will be a busy place and I am looking forward to it because I usually do pretty good at selling treasures that other people want. In short, if you have the time come on out and join in the fun at Yogi Bear in Plymouth, IN.

DOUBLE HEADER

Yes ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, this is a double header weekend. I'm not talking about baseball I'm talking about Flag Day and Fathers Day. Forget about today being Friday the 13th, lets concentrate on the weekend. Number one. Flag day is a day to honor our flag, show it with pride and treat it with respect. Not only do we do that but it is the day I was born, June 14, 1940. That's right, that makes me a young 68 years old. That special day happens Saturday. And we all know what Sunday is, because the stores won't let us forget, money, money money, it is Fathers Day a day we honor them just like we did mom a few weeks ago. The reason I call it a double header is that I get presents on Saturday and Sunday. Not bad huh?

It's off to the camper today where I will spend this weekend with friends and family. To others who are celebrating their birthday tomorrow, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, and to all the dads HAPPY FATHERS DAY. Enjoy.

THE CIRCUS

Yesterday, Monday, there was the Orak Shrine Circus at the Lake County Fairgrounds. Odd day to have a circus but then again the kids are out of school. There were free passes for the kids given out at school and in some stores. Two kids got in free with one paying adult. $14.00 for an adult ticket which is not bad and going to a good cause. The Shriner's. It was an overcast day and the performance was being held outdoors with us sitting on metal bleachers. About a half hour before the show it started raining. My two granddaughters and I were sitting on the top seat and fortunate to be sitting under the branch of a tree. The rain lasted about 15 minutes and stopped but it remained overcast which was a good thing because the sun would have been in our eyes.

Half hour before the show started the vendors were released to sell their wares. Remembering the faces of the vendors I discovered that these same people were performers on the trapeze, acrobatic acts and so on. But anyway with the selling of these items brought a large void in ones wallet. Snow cones $5.00, popcorn and cotton candy, nachos and hot dogs $3.00, balloons, drinks and programs $2.00. Elephant rides $8.00 and pony rides $6.00. Last but not least, on the way out, was the souvenir booth with the price of 2 stuffed elephants $15.00 each. Times all of the by 2 and it totals an expensive day but the expression on my granddaughters faces was priceless. The circus itself was a great show with a lot of flair and excitement and you could see that the performers put all they had into giving a good performance. There was one act I will never forget. It was a round cage in which held first, three motor bikes going around and around and ended with 6 going around and around at high speeds. Very good.

Should you ever get a chance to see the Orak Shrine Circus, do so. It will be a day well spent with the kids.

TIS THE SEASON

What a wonderful day, and yes ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls it is the season. The season for what you say. What else can it be but GARAGE SALE season. The dream of all who check the local newspapers on Thursday, Friday and Saturday to collect addresses of those wonderful people who go through the trouble of having a garage sale. From people looking to find antiques to people who are just curious to see what other people are selling to retired old men like myself who look for things to buy cheap and resell on EBay. At times can be quite profitable. Not only that but it's nice to get out and meet people. So in closing, I have checked the newspaper, showered and dressed and thought I would write this before I left to find my treasures. So to all of you who look forward to Thursday, Friday and Saturday garage sales, GOOD HUNTING.

HOW WAS YOUR SHOPPING?

Shopping, shopping, shopping. I hate it but there are people who absolutly love to shop, shop, shop. Give them a excuse and they could shop 24/7. They live for Christmas shopping. The pushing, shoving and the crowds.

The busiest shopping day of the year is the day after Thanksgiving, properly named black friday. Stores open at 4, 5, or 6 a.m. with bargains that you would not believe. Lines start forming outside your favorite stores at 2 or 3 a.m. and on a cold morning one might wonder where are the washrooms. Inside the building which doesn't open for another two hours.

Did you know, I did, that there is a place you can shop on line in the comfort of your own home. Nice and warm, drinking a good cup of coffee and not having to worry about where to find a restroom. The place to shop from your home can be found at www.black-friday.net/. Here you can find all of your favorite stores and get a jump on the sale items offered by these stores. These stores offer special deals such as free shipping, and you know how much you can save with that. I have family in Texas and I order from http://www.jcpenny.com/ and have the gifts shipped directly to Texas. There my daughter wraps the gifts, saving me that chore. It's great.

Log onto www.black-friday.net/ and see all of the stores on their website. Click on you favorite store and check out the items that are on sale now. Enter your e-mail address with Black Friday and you will be notified of new ads as they become available. Just a few of the stores are Best Buy, CVS, COSTCO, Ace Hardware, Kohls and J C Penny.

Visit the Black Friday website, www.black-friday.net/ and do your shopping in comfort and get a jump on the other shoppers.

IT'S OVER

Yes it's over. The weekend I mean. I hope yours was a nice and restful as mine. I hope that wherever you were the weather was nice. So I guess this means that the summer activity season has started.
I spent the weekend at my camper in Plymouth, Indiana. Saturday was the big flea market where I was able to sell enough items to be able to pay the young man who cuts my grass. The amount I made covers two weeks of cutting. $12.00 per cut. The flea market ended at 12:00 and the rest of the day was spent laying around and visiting with friends. Weather was in the upper to lower 70's. In the evening as usual we gathered around the camp fire for informative, useless conversation that kept us laughing for hours. Around 12:00 midnight we all retired and I was asleep in about 10 minutes since I was up a 5 in the morning to do the flea market and got to the pavilion to assure myself a few tables.
Sunday slept in late. When I did get up I enjoyed a few cups of coffee on my deck which overlooks the lake. It was there that I sat in the rocking chair with my coffee and dozed off for awhile. Again the weather was nice, no rain, and in the the mid to high 70's
None of my family came out so I had a quiet weekend alone.
Monday was also nice. Weather was warm and again I spent time relaxing on the deck watching people fish at the lake and the many people who walked and rode by my lot. My camper is located on a corner lot so I see a lot of people. It's like a constant parade which I like because I am a people watcher. Around 4 I decided it was time to head for home, and that is what I did.
I hope your weekend was a nice as mine.

VISIT THE STARK MUSEUM OF ART IN ORANGE TEXAS

If you are interested in art, books and manuscripts I recommend that you visit The Stark Museum in Orange Texas. The Stark Museum of Art has a large variety of Western Art, American Indian Art, Decorate Arts and Rare Books and Manuscripts in a quiet scerene setting of 5 large rooms where you can admire picture after picture.

The collection was started by H.J. Lutcher Stark and his mother Miriam Lutcher Stark. Museum opened November 29, 1989 and to this day, continues to acquire new works of art. Visit the website at http://www.starkmuseum.org/ to learn more about this wonderful museum and it's founders.

The Stark Museum of Art contains 5 galleries in a two story building. Visit their website at http://www.starkmuseum.org/ for their location, phone number and e-mail address. I forgot to mention that there is FREE admission to this wonderful museum.

They offer group tours, family participation programs, have a research library and other things to catch your fancy. The museum store offers a large variety of books, note cards, limited edition gifts and selected store items can be view at Info@starkmuseum.org.

The museum is a link of the Nelda C and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation. The Foundation was established as a non-profit corporation in 1961. The Foundation is to be operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposed. The mission of the Foundation is to improve the quality of life in Southeast Texas.

Visit and website and visit the Stark Museum of Art in Orange, Texas.