Though certainly not a great day, and I had to push to do the little I did, I was able to use the snow blower to clear my driveway and sidewalk, head over and do one of my neighbors drive, and further down several neighbor’s sidewalks. I had planned to do more sidewalks and a second neighbor’s drive, but I ran out of gas. When I gassed up, the stupid machine would not start (it flooded, always does). Normally I just rip the cord until the sucker rocks, but I had other things I wanted to do. Namely, I was able to pick up my pistol today. I had hoped to pick it up early enough to take her out and light off a few, which is why I rushed off to the gunsmith rather than continue to mess with the blower. When I arrived, there was only one employee behind the counter, and he was busy showing a couple of young men a number of pistols and revolvers. Heck, I enjoyed the situation and looked through the pieces myself when offered a gun. I realized I had a few things to add to the conversations, and learned a few things. Well, ok, so I may not have learned much, but I did enjoy groping the steel. As well, during the conversation, I came to realize I was speaking with young men who, at least one of them though I suspect both of them, will be officers after graduation. I thanked the one for the commitment and wished him well, the other had wandered off as I was leaving.
All things must pass, and so I concluded my visit and business and headed home. It had become far too late to shoot. As I returned, I saw the neighbor who’s drive I had not been able to get cleared. I called over and we met halfway and started to talk. I explained my situation, of course it was not a thing for him. Even doing his walk was a gift, and not a necessary one. As the conversation continued, I told him what I had just picked up. I could not remember if he had seen the .22, it turns out he had not. Seeming to be a bit curious, I asked if he wanted to check it out. Sure enough, we ended up looking at it. Well, when two or more shooters gather, a target practice might end up planned, and so it was. Tomorrow (today, Saturday, technically) we will see. He has a 9 mm Glock he has not even shot yet! He has to be going nuts, chomping at the bit to get that out. As well, he is interested in a .22 pistol for cheaper training (though 9 mm ammo is not too much more expensive). He has not shot a .45 yet, either. Being the .45 devotee that I am, I like putting this caliber in as many hands as I am able. And, I am curious about his little 9 popper. It must be a micro though, and his hands are nearly the size of mine. Still, it should be interesting.
As I was ending my conversation with this neighbor, the wife of my other neighbor drove up, and sort of tried to get my attention. Well, eventually she got it, and as the first neighbor headed home, I spoke with the misses of the other neighbor. She was quite pleased to have gotten her drive and sidewalk cleaned, again, and invited me over for supper Sunday. Knowing how averse I am to home-cooked food, it was difficult to say yes, but I am a real mensche, and dinner it is. *laughs* Although, I was not sure what time would be best. I knew my Sunday meeting was a different time this Sunday, due to the Super Bowl, so I had to get back to her, though I though 18:00 would be good. Yep, after checking an email, I called over to let them know and check about something else. Not only did I set that up, I also asked if this neighbor, too, the mister anyway, would be interested in going out and putting a few rounds down range. He is interested, though he is not sure. No guarantees, from either neighbor, but I will be checking tomorrow around noon. We might load up and head out to the range. It might be a bit messy, and I just cleaned my Xterra today, but not a problem. I really hope we can get out and put a couple hundred down range, at least.
Oh, I had this really funky dream last night. It had something to do with mass and bullet accuracy, mass proportions and ratios shown in worth of gold, by God. Hey, I do not make these things up. As well… I think it is right, somehow. I am working some things out from it. It has something to do with finding just the right load, then making sure the masses remain the same, making sure the proportions of mass are the same, and a few other things. Really, I know it is a bit crazy, but I am working some of these things on paper, for the moment. I am hoping to salvage it for when I obtain my reloader. It might just be a crazy cool dream, if not, it would be great to receive a secret (cosmic secret?).
I did not get much more done. And then I crashed at about 17:00 until 22:00 or so. I think I am going back to bed. I want to be as fresh as possible for shooting tomorrow.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Friday, February 1, 2008
The military might have done more than most people do in a whole day, before breakfast. As for me, all I have done is become tired before breakfast!
(Day 25)
Ok, what is this grumbling about, you ask? I went to bed a little past midnight last evening. I slept well, with no interruptions to my knowledge. I awoke at 6:43, refreshed and hale, and ready to do several things on my lists. I completed a few morning regulars, checked my email, looked over my sources of information, visited a blog or two, then decided that a bagel or two would do well, with a little cream cheese. By the time I began to write this, I was already exhausted. So much so, I am not sure how much longer I will last this morning. I can barely keep my eyes open.
Normally I do not struggle, however, an old friend stopped by and we are making plans for next weekend. We both have an interest in boating kayaking for her, probably, most likely canoeing for me. There is a watersport center we both have some attachment with which is having an event next weekend, which we both of us seem interested in attending. If I pay for a place to sleep, she will pay for the gas. She is interested in both a new and better kayak, she currently has a rank beginner kayak (probably, though a canoe might work too, this part of discovery is really fun). She is also looking to add equipment to her truck which makes the sport simpler for her. She is a tough little lady, but she is fairly slight and a lady. With technology and engineering, there is no reason she needs to stretch precariously or extend or lift beyond her natural capacities just to enjoy something she so dearly loves. For my part, I am interested in a single man adventuring canoe, capable of some whitewater (though by no means is whitewater my target, I only wish to be able to survive it should I natively happen upon even serious whitewater), and it must be able to handle my 300 pounds plus 400 to 600 pounds of gear. I, as well, have not decided absolutely, perhaps a kayak would do, I would like to know more. I would like to make friends and meet people in the community, perhaps see if I could join a group for an outing or two, and perhaps as well, try out various types of boats and equipment in the lead up to a purchase in the next year or two. I am hoping to make a whitewater adventure this spring or summer, depending on Res Ipsa, money, and a few other realities.
On a side note. It might seem odd for a grown, middle aged even, full bull ogre male to have a lady friend with whom I may share a room, perhaps even a bed, without being sexually involved, but it happens. I am only a beast on the outside and in war. Perhaps that is why I am singular, having no mate, one way or the other. Life is a fix, is it not? And, yes, she is pretty. And, of course, I am a gorgeous hunk of a man beast animal. We have even been lovers in the past, and quite pleasantly so. I know her body and I remember her body well. But that was then and we are potent beings enough to be in control of our flesh, in spite of our great hungers and mutual interest. It is no small thing to be trusted, or to be able to trust. Women have no small lust of their own, so it is a mutual thing. I tease her that I see her as a sister. She knows better, and yet understands a tool, and that there are others. Life can be so much fun, and so rich, and still be right. Got to love that.
Oh, and hey, it has been a cold, snowy, silly winter. A little vacation with a dear friend is nothing to sneeze at. The Bahamas might seem more inviting, but time and money are against such notions. As well, I am a winter creature. I have a burning in my breast which allows me no comfort in warmer climbs. At 23 F, though today with pants and a shirt on, but without coat, let alone shoes and socks, I will go outside and chill a bit. Just call me a hot body. Well, that does come and go. Anyway, I look forward to this coming trip. She, my friend, is a nag and a leftist, but… She is a friend, and a good one. And, she is a pretty lady whose company it is always (almost) a pleasure to pursue.
Oh, so, I am staying up merely so that we may consolidate our plans and be set for next weekend. She was off to the laundry, though, first. When she finishes there, she will bring the flyer for the event to me (I had one, but it seems in a fit of cleaning, I accidentally parted with my copy). Still, I am sooooo tired. Ritalin and Coca-Cola are nothing to this exhaustion.
Well, just as I was finishing, she stopped over. With the information in hand, we discussed the available options and made a decision, and a stopgap decision. We discussed a few odds and ends, talked about what we were looking for, and just had a pleasant discussion. As she was preparing to leave, she suggested I call her at work once I had completed the registration. I suggested I just do it while she waited so that she might know not only that it was done but also have some input into any variables. We completed the registration, with a slight language barrier (Indian) to overcome, and the deal is now done. A little patience and a regrouping of ideas on both parties part, and a switch to other aspects of the conversation in the meanwhile, end up with a much more satisfactory communication through language barriers. I find if I do not get hung up and stuck with the misunderstanding, I can do better getting on with other things and then come back to deal with the misunderstanding later, that is. Just a thought.
*sigh* Now I cannot rest. Where is that list, again… *sigh*
Ok, what is this grumbling about, you ask? I went to bed a little past midnight last evening. I slept well, with no interruptions to my knowledge. I awoke at 6:43, refreshed and hale, and ready to do several things on my lists. I completed a few morning regulars, checked my email, looked over my sources of information, visited a blog or two, then decided that a bagel or two would do well, with a little cream cheese. By the time I began to write this, I was already exhausted. So much so, I am not sure how much longer I will last this morning. I can barely keep my eyes open.
Normally I do not struggle, however, an old friend stopped by and we are making plans for next weekend. We both have an interest in boating kayaking for her, probably, most likely canoeing for me. There is a watersport center we both have some attachment with which is having an event next weekend, which we both of us seem interested in attending. If I pay for a place to sleep, she will pay for the gas. She is interested in both a new and better kayak, she currently has a rank beginner kayak (probably, though a canoe might work too, this part of discovery is really fun). She is also looking to add equipment to her truck which makes the sport simpler for her. She is a tough little lady, but she is fairly slight and a lady. With technology and engineering, there is no reason she needs to stretch precariously or extend or lift beyond her natural capacities just to enjoy something she so dearly loves. For my part, I am interested in a single man adventuring canoe, capable of some whitewater (though by no means is whitewater my target, I only wish to be able to survive it should I natively happen upon even serious whitewater), and it must be able to handle my 300 pounds plus 400 to 600 pounds of gear. I, as well, have not decided absolutely, perhaps a kayak would do, I would like to know more. I would like to make friends and meet people in the community, perhaps see if I could join a group for an outing or two, and perhaps as well, try out various types of boats and equipment in the lead up to a purchase in the next year or two. I am hoping to make a whitewater adventure this spring or summer, depending on Res Ipsa, money, and a few other realities.
On a side note. It might seem odd for a grown, middle aged even, full bull ogre male to have a lady friend with whom I may share a room, perhaps even a bed, without being sexually involved, but it happens. I am only a beast on the outside and in war. Perhaps that is why I am singular, having no mate, one way or the other. Life is a fix, is it not? And, yes, she is pretty. And, of course, I am a gorgeous hunk of a man beast animal. We have even been lovers in the past, and quite pleasantly so. I know her body and I remember her body well. But that was then and we are potent beings enough to be in control of our flesh, in spite of our great hungers and mutual interest. It is no small thing to be trusted, or to be able to trust. Women have no small lust of their own, so it is a mutual thing. I tease her that I see her as a sister. She knows better, and yet understands a tool, and that there are others. Life can be so much fun, and so rich, and still be right. Got to love that.
Oh, and hey, it has been a cold, snowy, silly winter. A little vacation with a dear friend is nothing to sneeze at. The Bahamas might seem more inviting, but time and money are against such notions. As well, I am a winter creature. I have a burning in my breast which allows me no comfort in warmer climbs. At 23 F, though today with pants and a shirt on, but without coat, let alone shoes and socks, I will go outside and chill a bit. Just call me a hot body. Well, that does come and go. Anyway, I look forward to this coming trip. She, my friend, is a nag and a leftist, but… She is a friend, and a good one. And, she is a pretty lady whose company it is always (almost) a pleasure to pursue.
Oh, so, I am staying up merely so that we may consolidate our plans and be set for next weekend. She was off to the laundry, though, first. When she finishes there, she will bring the flyer for the event to me (I had one, but it seems in a fit of cleaning, I accidentally parted with my copy). Still, I am sooooo tired. Ritalin and Coca-Cola are nothing to this exhaustion.
Well, just as I was finishing, she stopped over. With the information in hand, we discussed the available options and made a decision, and a stopgap decision. We discussed a few odds and ends, talked about what we were looking for, and just had a pleasant discussion. As she was preparing to leave, she suggested I call her at work once I had completed the registration. I suggested I just do it while she waited so that she might know not only that it was done but also have some input into any variables. We completed the registration, with a slight language barrier (Indian) to overcome, and the deal is now done. A little patience and a regrouping of ideas on both parties part, and a switch to other aspects of the conversation in the meanwhile, end up with a much more satisfactory communication through language barriers. I find if I do not get hung up and stuck with the misunderstanding, I can do better getting on with other things and then come back to deal with the misunderstanding later, that is. Just a thought.
*sigh* Now I cannot rest. Where is that list, again… *sigh*
Thursday, January 31, 2008
What is this thing?
Some months ago, visiting a place of times past, I happened to see a friend of a past love. This woman had become my friend herself, and to the best of my knowledge she remained a friend. So, I decided to speak with her. We caught up a bit on each other’s lives, families, and personal complaints joys and thoughts. It was a pleasant affair, and as it was coming to a close, we seemed to gauge each other about the prospect of discussing the initial means of our friendship, my past love. The topic just flowed and we discussed how she was doing, what she was doing, and such. It appears this past love still has interest. And though I share some interest, I could never be more than a friend. I know that would not work, neither my conscious nor my past loves lack of constraint would be sufficiently satisfied with any deal we two might arrange. Though when proffered a phone number, I accepted if with reservations, knowing I would not call.
Not so long ago, as I was in that particular area again, I met the lady herself. It has been some time since we were together, and we had been together for 8 years. She was looking good, sprightly perhaps, and pleasant. We spent some time discussing life and all, and I enjoyed the visit, and knowing that she is well. But as all visits must, our time together came to a close. She invited me to stop by, gave me her phone number, and there was a set to her I had no doubts about. She is still open to me, to my touch, to my love.
As I said, I have no intention of reinvigorating an incorrect love. Celibate four or more years, temptations are probably more potent than ever. Still, I did nothing. Even more recently, I happened to be in that area once again. This time, I never saw her, she did not approach, she actually snuck past me, I do believe. I saw her face, as she cast a glance my way, then drove off. I realize she was crushed. Crushed by my failure to visit, crushed by her feelings from this.
Though it would be so easy to say “Such is life.” or “Time heals all things.”, I think I will keep my mouth shut. I truly had hoped she would move on. She would be a good find. She is a good love, a good cook, she obeys and yet lends guidance (playing me like a fiddle, after a little social tuning, from time to time, and actually much to my joy after I figured it out). She has wisdom and some smarts, she is a good woman. We parted because she would not move from that place and, I think too, because she cannot have children. Or at least, that last was something I was beginning to feel called toward. Not being able to be a father would always have been a difficulty. I do not understand why she has not gone on, and I probably cannot understand the depths of her pain, but I can pray for her, in her loneliness, but that is all I can do. What a thing, this thing called love.
Not so long ago, as I was in that particular area again, I met the lady herself. It has been some time since we were together, and we had been together for 8 years. She was looking good, sprightly perhaps, and pleasant. We spent some time discussing life and all, and I enjoyed the visit, and knowing that she is well. But as all visits must, our time together came to a close. She invited me to stop by, gave me her phone number, and there was a set to her I had no doubts about. She is still open to me, to my touch, to my love.
As I said, I have no intention of reinvigorating an incorrect love. Celibate four or more years, temptations are probably more potent than ever. Still, I did nothing. Even more recently, I happened to be in that area once again. This time, I never saw her, she did not approach, she actually snuck past me, I do believe. I saw her face, as she cast a glance my way, then drove off. I realize she was crushed. Crushed by my failure to visit, crushed by her feelings from this.
Though it would be so easy to say “Such is life.” or “Time heals all things.”, I think I will keep my mouth shut. I truly had hoped she would move on. She would be a good find. She is a good love, a good cook, she obeys and yet lends guidance (playing me like a fiddle, after a little social tuning, from time to time, and actually much to my joy after I figured it out). She has wisdom and some smarts, she is a good woman. We parted because she would not move from that place and, I think too, because she cannot have children. Or at least, that last was something I was beginning to feel called toward. Not being able to be a father would always have been a difficulty. I do not understand why she has not gone on, and I probably cannot understand the depths of her pain, but I can pray for her, in her loneliness, but that is all I can do. What a thing, this thing called love.
Tired, confused, and hot. (Day 24)
The last few days have been exhausting. I have been cat napping, having several short sleep periods each of the last two days for certain. It has been difficult staying awake or asleep. I have been able to do the old homework in preparation for the test (today, if class is not canceled again). However, after doing that two or three times, as I moved into the next set of homework (what will be due today) I am having difficulty. Focus, last night and this morning, has been lacking. Still, I will dig in and do what I may. I do have a few tricks up my sleeve and I will get it done.
I phoned my mother this morning. I have been trying to pace my calls, now that she is better. Every other day, if I do not hear from here, I call. Today was the right day, she had been thinking about calling me with some information and was intending to call me right after she finished a few tasks. She is doing quite well, she is fully able around the house, in the kitchen, and with personal care again. She has reduced her pain tabs, using ibuprofen as her mainstay. But the real news is that she is well enough to travel. Beyond, she will be driving herself! It is difficult to keep a farm girl down. In spite of being a smoker, a bit overweight, and beyond retirement age, she does quite well, and recovers extremely well. She lost two pints of blood in her 8-9 hour surgery on the 7th of this month. The surgery was supposed to be 4-6 hours, apparently there were complications.
Roast! Last night I produced a fine chuck roast. I have found a method which I really enjoy. First, I pick a healthy chuck roast, about 4-6 pounds. I then salt the meat on all edges and sides, and let it stand salted for 40 minutes. I then add a little water (several cups) to the roaster (open roaster), turning the oven to broil. When the oven is heated, and the meat has been salted for 40 minutes, I put the meat into the heated oven (with scrubbed potatoes around it in the roaster). I set the timer for 15 minutes. When the timer dings, I turn the meat and let it broil for 15 minutes longer. I then add onions, placing them on top of the roast, but quickly so as to keep the heat in the oven (cut in two, usually two onions for four halves). I also then turn to oven off for 40 minutes. When the timer goes off again, I turn the oven to 350 degrees and cook the meat for 45 minutes, allowing the reheating of the oven to be a part of the time. You do not have to believe me, but unless you have tried it, you will never know.
Oh, about the hot, do not ask. For some reason, I am just burning up today. If I thought I could get away with it, I would go outside for a bit in my boxers. As it is, since my door is a bit shielded, I have just been letting the 18 F air in on me for spits of moments, ducking in quickly if I hear a noise. It has been like this for two days. Maybe I am dying! Nope, I am not in pain, just hot.
Well, I am off to bug other people. Be well.
I phoned my mother this morning. I have been trying to pace my calls, now that she is better. Every other day, if I do not hear from here, I call. Today was the right day, she had been thinking about calling me with some information and was intending to call me right after she finished a few tasks. She is doing quite well, she is fully able around the house, in the kitchen, and with personal care again. She has reduced her pain tabs, using ibuprofen as her mainstay. But the real news is that she is well enough to travel. Beyond, she will be driving herself! It is difficult to keep a farm girl down. In spite of being a smoker, a bit overweight, and beyond retirement age, she does quite well, and recovers extremely well. She lost two pints of blood in her 8-9 hour surgery on the 7th of this month. The surgery was supposed to be 4-6 hours, apparently there were complications.
Roast! Last night I produced a fine chuck roast. I have found a method which I really enjoy. First, I pick a healthy chuck roast, about 4-6 pounds. I then salt the meat on all edges and sides, and let it stand salted for 40 minutes. I then add a little water (several cups) to the roaster (open roaster), turning the oven to broil. When the oven is heated, and the meat has been salted for 40 minutes, I put the meat into the heated oven (with scrubbed potatoes around it in the roaster). I set the timer for 15 minutes. When the timer dings, I turn the meat and let it broil for 15 minutes longer. I then add onions, placing them on top of the roast, but quickly so as to keep the heat in the oven (cut in two, usually two onions for four halves). I also then turn to oven off for 40 minutes. When the timer goes off again, I turn the oven to 350 degrees and cook the meat for 45 minutes, allowing the reheating of the oven to be a part of the time. You do not have to believe me, but unless you have tried it, you will never know.
Oh, about the hot, do not ask. For some reason, I am just burning up today. If I thought I could get away with it, I would go outside for a bit in my boxers. As it is, since my door is a bit shielded, I have just been letting the 18 F air in on me for spits of moments, ducking in quickly if I hear a noise. It has been like this for two days. Maybe I am dying! Nope, I am not in pain, just hot.
Well, I am off to bug other people. Be well.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Reloading Equipment
If you are curious about reloading equipment, read on. I have tried to create an information base, beginners to be sure, here for any interested parties. I will not say everything here is absolute. Among other reasons, such as the variability of the systems available, differences of definition which occur from user to user and manufacturer to manufacturer or even one field of science to another within the scope herein, is the fact that I am fallible. If you are not interested in a study of the general material, and are more curious how this involves me, then skip to the “***”. I will get on with it there.
What am I discussing? Fair enough, a good question for most people. I wrote the article below, starting at the “***”, and then realized many people have no idea about what I discuss in this piece. Reloading equipment is an equipment system used to reload (make ready to fire through a firearm again) already fired ammunition or it may be used to construct new bullets from new components so as to actually manufacture virgin ammunition. The primary piece of the system is called a press. This piece literally uses a pressing action in order to do a variety of tasks in the ammunition manufacturing process. For nearly each caliber of ammunition, a group of dies, powder dispensers, powder checking systems, capping devices, and other equipment may be used for a variety of those and other processes. The processes include actions such as: reforming the brass so that the bullet will fit properly; decapping/capping (removing the old bullet primer then placing a new one into the brass); adding the powder to the newly capped brass; adding the bullet to the brass, then pressing that into the brass to a specific and necessary depth. There are other potential steps in the process. As well, some men perform some of these steps by hand (using alternate equipment of course) while others use the press itself for everything, depending on the type of press to personal preferences.
There are four types of reloading equipment systems, only 3 of which are what I consider press based. The oddball is the “hand press”. These are little units one may build ammunition from with equipment which fits in the palm of one’s hand. It is very slow, and there are other difficulties with it. However, once I get going on this, I may consider such a thing because of it’s portability. Perfect for backwoods camping and hunting trips. Of the presses, there are three types. Single station presses, which allow only one function at a time to be completed. With this press, the manufacturer must, for example, resize all of his brass at one time (or whatever of his stock he wishes to work with). Then, he will need to reset to decap/cap (some presses allow the decapping and capping in one step). Each process will need to be run one process at a time, generally speaking. It is laborious, time consuming just because of the need to change out processes, and with those problems, the chances of interruption (not a good thing) increases. The next two types of presses have multiple process stations. How the processes are arranged and what processes are set in the system, beyond the necessities (decap/recap before adding powder by necessity of needing a new cap in place to hold the powder and the fact that once the powder is placed, removing and recapping would be unwise in more than one way, as an example), is quite up to the artist. Next is what is called a tower press. It usually has a set number of stations (often four or five process stations) which may be set to do the various processes involved. Sometimes it is automatic, meaning a pull on the press’s lever or handle will not only lower the press systems, activating the various processes, it will rotate the plate upon which the ammunition sits after the processes have been completed and the systems disengage the under-construction bullets, moving the ammunition to the next station for that station's process. Some of these presses do not do this, requiring the artisan to manually rotate the bullet plate. The next type is called the progressive press. These are always automatic (though they may have the option to be set to manual rotation of the bullet plate). These last are, by far, the fastest. They have their drawbacks, but few in my opinion, cost often being the turnoff for most.
Beyond the mainstay of the press, yet still equipment used in the process, one finds the need for everything from scales (for powder), calipers (to ensure the brass has been correctly formed and that the bullet is properly seated in the brass, to dozens of more and less essential additional equipment. Finally, the bullet components must be considered. Everything from caps (which ignite the powder in the bullet) to brass to powder (among several other consumable products), many types and manufacturers of these items must be considered, and then compared by firing the final constructed bullets with these various consumable goods, as one attempts to find the best shooting, least expensive, ammunition ingredient for the shooter’s purposes. I hope that helps.
***
I have been researching equipment which will allow me to load my own ammunition. After looking at the actual base equipment, types of equipment, and options of those pieces which are directly applied to the process, I find that the research only starts there. To give you an idea of how complicated it is, think of buying a car. Now, imagine if you bought the body, engine, tires, and interior components separately, down to the window handle (or electric window opener, with various speeds to choose from). As well, imagine that before you could use your car, you actually needed to buy or build a garage (garage = reloading station bench in this case, which is not vital, it is necessary for reloading). Ok, sounds complex right? Now consider that every single component I just spoke of can be economic to deluxe, often with several variations between the top and bottom rungs; that each company can make parts that work for both their and other manufacturer’s systems, though neither absolutely nor equally; that everyone says their products are the best (of course); and every end user believes the systems they have purchased is the best, or good enough, or foolish to spend more or less than what they have spent.
I have done years of research, as I said. And, yes, I could probably get into a functional system for $600 dollars. That is the minimum for a complete system, including press, dies, a press bench, and all non-consumable and minimal bullet equipment. However, like anything else, buying the cheapest is not wise, satisfying, or probably necessary. When the cost is spread over a lifetime, as these systems really will last that long, even double the cost is not unreasonable if the system works better and would be more enjoyable and practical to use, especially over a lifetime. The system I am considering, with every bell and whistle I see as truly worth my time, and within the parameters I absolutely must have (though not including bullets, powder, etc either) will cost about $1200 plus the cost of a bench.
This system will allow me to produce bullets by the piece or realistically scale production to near mass production of up to 4-600 bullets an hour in just about any caliber I would have interest in producing. It has a lifetime warranty unlike any other system, and that warranty is transferable, meaning if I gave it to a son or sold it to a friend, the company still warranties the press. The warranty is good, if something breaks (usually a minor piece, gaskets, o-rings, and typical culprits such as those being the huge majority of difficulty from what I have found), they will trouble shoot on the phone if necessary, then send (free) what is needed or suspected to be the problem. The press I am looking at is the Dillon 550b, initially set for the .45 acp. I also have plans for other calibers, namely the .500 S&W magnum and the .308. It saves a great deal on ammunition, allows for a far greater accuracy and regularity of ammunition, and it is definitely a nerdish activity, blue collar and yet as technological as I might care to engage. It is right for me, for a great variety of reasons.
Oh, any opinions are welcome. Any advice, as well, is more than welcome. I will have to see how money is this coming month, but I believe I am at the point where I will be buying this item as early as February, though as late as May. It would have been guaranteed this month, but because of the elimination of a chance for school funding, I am having to re-evaluate everything financial. As well, I did spend a bit more, thinking I would be a bit more set, so there is that too (Counting chickens before the eggs hatch and whatnot. Hush, You!). I will get there, but I am excited now.
What am I discussing? Fair enough, a good question for most people. I wrote the article below, starting at the “***”, and then realized many people have no idea about what I discuss in this piece. Reloading equipment is an equipment system used to reload (make ready to fire through a firearm again) already fired ammunition or it may be used to construct new bullets from new components so as to actually manufacture virgin ammunition. The primary piece of the system is called a press. This piece literally uses a pressing action in order to do a variety of tasks in the ammunition manufacturing process. For nearly each caliber of ammunition, a group of dies, powder dispensers, powder checking systems, capping devices, and other equipment may be used for a variety of those and other processes. The processes include actions such as: reforming the brass so that the bullet will fit properly; decapping/capping (removing the old bullet primer then placing a new one into the brass); adding the powder to the newly capped brass; adding the bullet to the brass, then pressing that into the brass to a specific and necessary depth. There are other potential steps in the process. As well, some men perform some of these steps by hand (using alternate equipment of course) while others use the press itself for everything, depending on the type of press to personal preferences.
There are four types of reloading equipment systems, only 3 of which are what I consider press based. The oddball is the “hand press”. These are little units one may build ammunition from with equipment which fits in the palm of one’s hand. It is very slow, and there are other difficulties with it. However, once I get going on this, I may consider such a thing because of it’s portability. Perfect for backwoods camping and hunting trips. Of the presses, there are three types. Single station presses, which allow only one function at a time to be completed. With this press, the manufacturer must, for example, resize all of his brass at one time (or whatever of his stock he wishes to work with). Then, he will need to reset to decap/cap (some presses allow the decapping and capping in one step). Each process will need to be run one process at a time, generally speaking. It is laborious, time consuming just because of the need to change out processes, and with those problems, the chances of interruption (not a good thing) increases. The next two types of presses have multiple process stations. How the processes are arranged and what processes are set in the system, beyond the necessities (decap/recap before adding powder by necessity of needing a new cap in place to hold the powder and the fact that once the powder is placed, removing and recapping would be unwise in more than one way, as an example), is quite up to the artist. Next is what is called a tower press. It usually has a set number of stations (often four or five process stations) which may be set to do the various processes involved. Sometimes it is automatic, meaning a pull on the press’s lever or handle will not only lower the press systems, activating the various processes, it will rotate the plate upon which the ammunition sits after the processes have been completed and the systems disengage the under-construction bullets, moving the ammunition to the next station for that station's process. Some of these presses do not do this, requiring the artisan to manually rotate the bullet plate. The next type is called the progressive press. These are always automatic (though they may have the option to be set to manual rotation of the bullet plate). These last are, by far, the fastest. They have their drawbacks, but few in my opinion, cost often being the turnoff for most.
Beyond the mainstay of the press, yet still equipment used in the process, one finds the need for everything from scales (for powder), calipers (to ensure the brass has been correctly formed and that the bullet is properly seated in the brass, to dozens of more and less essential additional equipment. Finally, the bullet components must be considered. Everything from caps (which ignite the powder in the bullet) to brass to powder (among several other consumable products), many types and manufacturers of these items must be considered, and then compared by firing the final constructed bullets with these various consumable goods, as one attempts to find the best shooting, least expensive, ammunition ingredient for the shooter’s purposes. I hope that helps.
***
I have been researching equipment which will allow me to load my own ammunition. After looking at the actual base equipment, types of equipment, and options of those pieces which are directly applied to the process, I find that the research only starts there. To give you an idea of how complicated it is, think of buying a car. Now, imagine if you bought the body, engine, tires, and interior components separately, down to the window handle (or electric window opener, with various speeds to choose from). As well, imagine that before you could use your car, you actually needed to buy or build a garage (garage = reloading station bench in this case, which is not vital, it is necessary for reloading). Ok, sounds complex right? Now consider that every single component I just spoke of can be economic to deluxe, often with several variations between the top and bottom rungs; that each company can make parts that work for both their and other manufacturer’s systems, though neither absolutely nor equally; that everyone says their products are the best (of course); and every end user believes the systems they have purchased is the best, or good enough, or foolish to spend more or less than what they have spent.
I have done years of research, as I said. And, yes, I could probably get into a functional system for $600 dollars. That is the minimum for a complete system, including press, dies, a press bench, and all non-consumable and minimal bullet equipment. However, like anything else, buying the cheapest is not wise, satisfying, or probably necessary. When the cost is spread over a lifetime, as these systems really will last that long, even double the cost is not unreasonable if the system works better and would be more enjoyable and practical to use, especially over a lifetime. The system I am considering, with every bell and whistle I see as truly worth my time, and within the parameters I absolutely must have (though not including bullets, powder, etc either) will cost about $1200 plus the cost of a bench.
This system will allow me to produce bullets by the piece or realistically scale production to near mass production of up to 4-600 bullets an hour in just about any caliber I would have interest in producing. It has a lifetime warranty unlike any other system, and that warranty is transferable, meaning if I gave it to a son or sold it to a friend, the company still warranties the press. The warranty is good, if something breaks (usually a minor piece, gaskets, o-rings, and typical culprits such as those being the huge majority of difficulty from what I have found), they will trouble shoot on the phone if necessary, then send (free) what is needed or suspected to be the problem. The press I am looking at is the Dillon 550b, initially set for the .45 acp. I also have plans for other calibers, namely the .500 S&W magnum and the .308. It saves a great deal on ammunition, allows for a far greater accuracy and regularity of ammunition, and it is definitely a nerdish activity, blue collar and yet as technological as I might care to engage. It is right for me, for a great variety of reasons.
Oh, any opinions are welcome. Any advice, as well, is more than welcome. I will have to see how money is this coming month, but I believe I am at the point where I will be buying this item as early as February, though as late as May. It would have been guaranteed this month, but because of the elimination of a chance for school funding, I am having to re-evaluate everything financial. As well, I did spend a bit more, thinking I would be a bit more set, so there is that too (Counting chickens before the eggs hatch and whatnot. Hush, You!). I will get there, but I am excited now.
I have to wonder. (Day 23)
I started thinking about when and why I pull back from responding to other people’s blogs. What I realize is that if people slow down and begin blogging one piece every few days, I might end up commenting on every piece they have. And, ok, after a quick review, I realize my comments can be a bit potent (that is, offensive to the politically correct crowd, automatically, even when that was not at all my point or intent). And, a lot of responses from me on a slow writer can heavily and quickly make their blog politically incorrect, harsh to middle-of-the-roaders and definitely toxic to anyone even lightly leftist, as the sun is to vampires (or so the myth goes). After a few days of this, I realize I may be tilting their teeter-totter too hard, fast, and far in one direction. So, I quit. Oh, I know, I am slow to take a clue and this happens pretty hard and heavy before I realize… but I do try to be cognizant.
I become a little perturbed, because I really enjoy sharing, debating, saying my mind, and such, but I do have some notion of… fairness, tranquility, privacy, and a few other things. As well, I note I must be nearly singular. As many people as I get visiting here, I receive feedback from one woman. I guess I am amazed. I would love to have responses, tons of them. Those who agree, do not agree, those who correct, or advise. I would have the response level I give. Though I am broken, maybe permanently, I am not delicate. I would not hunt someone down and do mean or hurtful things upon their body because they disagree. I think I have thicker skin, and more often, than most “healthy” people. Of course, if one looks like Frankenstein, sticks and stones had best become comfortable aspects of one’s environment. Ha… I kill ME. Where is Ac (ckuhhhh) med when you need him.
So, does anyone think I should respond anyway? Do you all think I should hold my tongue (pen… drats, urhm, keyboard) as I do? What is the consensus? What would you rather from me on your blog, a comment on most of your postings with additional posts as I see fit, one comment only, or an occasional comment (say one comment per three of your posts)? Should I stick to politics light and empty content, keeping everything politically neutral, staying very on topic, or should I wander as I may? I am not going to jump you for this. I may or may not agree, I may or may not ask for clarification if you post, and I may or may not comply. This is just taking stock, I do not act in accordance with any non-governmental democracy, if I do attempt to find what reasonable etiquette is and live reasonably within that. So, now is your chance.
If I have been freaking you and yours out, tell me. If you wonder why I have not responded when you had hoped I would, now you know why and have a chance at some input. Well, I think I will shower, do a spot of cleaning, go to the store, do some more homework, and figure out what to do with life in general. Oh, I ought to call the U. of I. That woman did not get back to me. I think they are about as interested in having me back as Europe is hoping for the plague (well, non-government Europe). And, I think it is high time I break down and admit I have a problem with Saturday mornings, then make an appointment for confession. *sigh* Ok, crutches when they are called for, se la vie.
I become a little perturbed, because I really enjoy sharing, debating, saying my mind, and such, but I do have some notion of… fairness, tranquility, privacy, and a few other things. As well, I note I must be nearly singular. As many people as I get visiting here, I receive feedback from one woman. I guess I am amazed. I would love to have responses, tons of them. Those who agree, do not agree, those who correct, or advise. I would have the response level I give. Though I am broken, maybe permanently, I am not delicate. I would not hunt someone down and do mean or hurtful things upon their body because they disagree. I think I have thicker skin, and more often, than most “healthy” people. Of course, if one looks like Frankenstein, sticks and stones had best become comfortable aspects of one’s environment. Ha… I kill ME. Where is Ac (ckuhhhh) med when you need him.
So, does anyone think I should respond anyway? Do you all think I should hold my tongue (pen… drats, urhm, keyboard) as I do? What is the consensus? What would you rather from me on your blog, a comment on most of your postings with additional posts as I see fit, one comment only, or an occasional comment (say one comment per three of your posts)? Should I stick to politics light and empty content, keeping everything politically neutral, staying very on topic, or should I wander as I may? I am not going to jump you for this. I may or may not agree, I may or may not ask for clarification if you post, and I may or may not comply. This is just taking stock, I do not act in accordance with any non-governmental democracy, if I do attempt to find what reasonable etiquette is and live reasonably within that. So, now is your chance.
If I have been freaking you and yours out, tell me. If you wonder why I have not responded when you had hoped I would, now you know why and have a chance at some input. Well, I think I will shower, do a spot of cleaning, go to the store, do some more homework, and figure out what to do with life in general. Oh, I ought to call the U. of I. That woman did not get back to me. I think they are about as interested in having me back as Europe is hoping for the plague (well, non-government Europe). And, I think it is high time I break down and admit I have a problem with Saturday mornings, then make an appointment for confession. *sigh* Ok, crutches when they are called for, se la vie.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Romney, most likely.
I will not promise he will win. I neither know nor care who else supports him. I am not happy about voting for him. However, I think he can be hammered into form, for the most part. As with President Bush, he will do things I really do not like. He, like Bush, will have to be forced to do “the right thing”, sometimes. He will have a different view from us peons, but look, he is running for president, we are peons *laughs* (if darn rich peasants, and believe as we do that we are far above our real stations (though, too, we are “above our station”… we are Americans, freemen)), go figure. He is more liberal than I care to understand. Actually, his Mormonism is a plus, his liberalism is his problem for me. With enough groveling on his part, and enough of an enjoinment with the conservative aspects of the party (meaning proper cabinet members and advisers, I will need to see that happening), he might do.
Sure, I was for Thompson after I was against him. But really, he was a weak fourth choice for me when everything shook out. But in truth, third, actually, as one of the four was actually never in the race (and that was satisfying to me because he stalled too long while deciding whether to enter the race, and, I had hoped Thompson would stay out too, for a similar reason as well as his modest claim to conservativism.) Such is politics. Yes, it sounds crazy, but like any plan, it was a great plan while it lasted… which ended up being shorter than even the start of the darned race.
As well, I thought I should add this. I have had great anger regarding President Bush. Darned Texan got on my nerves more than once. He seemingly missed some very important points, and often kissed the wrong hands in his political romances. But every man we send to the White House will do so. As well, every man we send there should do so. (No, I do not like that either, hush, my story… comment if you have something to say.) I do not vote for a slaves, I vote for leaders. Once he takes his place, he is on autopilot and will do what he believes is correct, using more information than I have, with my and your and that stinking liberal hippies' welfare in mind, all of our welfare in mind as best as he is able with what power he has. Which means he has to do for the hippie as he does for me, if he does slightly more for me than not… that last bit is only a hope and then only in certain areas (why would he make me safer than the hippie?).
In President Bush’s case, he really was a decent conservative, not perfect, decent. And, more, he is the first president since President Reagan, and President Eisenhower before that who I could respect across the board. Clinton, Carter, Ford, Nixon, LBJ, Kennedy, disgusting or weak, people who just happened to be where they were when someone was needed or criminally elected miscreants. Drugs, stupidity, timidity, illegality, lust, criminality, and corruption are all I have to say about those. Yes, not only has President Bush, and his father, been a good man, they have been good family men. Their wives have been powerful ladies, but ladies indeed. The wives have had ideas, supported programs, but more, they supported their men, their husbands, and their whole families first. I have been pleased to have these people, as people, represent my nation domestically and internationally.
I can see that last bit more with Romney, much more than with Thompson, if Thompson might have been a bit more conservative (questionable). I do think Romney is a bit slick looking, yet I am making some room as I am seeing him look more human in his exhausting run. As I see my choices dwindle, it is down to writing in a candidate or Romney. I thought if Thompson dropped, I would fold, but I have changed my mind. As I think about this last… I wonder… By their fruits will they be known… Sorry Fred, Romney has you there. But, Lord knows, McCain and Rudy are horrid choices that way as well.
I am taking a break from study. I have studied off and on all weekend for my test later today. It is supposed to rain, freeze, slush, then snow before class, so I am not sure it will happen. Still, I would rather be ready than be wrong. I have rewritten my notes and redone my homework twice, and am about to hit it again. I did not really have time to try some of those problems I wrote down which were extras, but they will get done. If nothing else, I want them for my final review. Well, off I go. Oh, I believe I am finished pouting. Not sure what that was really about… a little anger at the slow blogging (he is lying), but I think more an ongoing frustration with my tobacco thing. Well, I am happy to be pissed, it means I am winning that fight.
Blessings. And yes, even if I do not agree with you, heck, even if you or I do not like the other… I do love you. Once again, blessings.
Sure, I was for Thompson after I was against him. But really, he was a weak fourth choice for me when everything shook out. But in truth, third, actually, as one of the four was actually never in the race (and that was satisfying to me because he stalled too long while deciding whether to enter the race, and, I had hoped Thompson would stay out too, for a similar reason as well as his modest claim to conservativism.) Such is politics. Yes, it sounds crazy, but like any plan, it was a great plan while it lasted… which ended up being shorter than even the start of the darned race.
As well, I thought I should add this. I have had great anger regarding President Bush. Darned Texan got on my nerves more than once. He seemingly missed some very important points, and often kissed the wrong hands in his political romances. But every man we send to the White House will do so. As well, every man we send there should do so. (No, I do not like that either, hush, my story… comment if you have something to say.) I do not vote for a slaves, I vote for leaders. Once he takes his place, he is on autopilot and will do what he believes is correct, using more information than I have, with my and your and that stinking liberal hippies' welfare in mind, all of our welfare in mind as best as he is able with what power he has. Which means he has to do for the hippie as he does for me, if he does slightly more for me than not… that last bit is only a hope and then only in certain areas (why would he make me safer than the hippie?).
In President Bush’s case, he really was a decent conservative, not perfect, decent. And, more, he is the first president since President Reagan, and President Eisenhower before that who I could respect across the board. Clinton, Carter, Ford, Nixon, LBJ, Kennedy, disgusting or weak, people who just happened to be where they were when someone was needed or criminally elected miscreants. Drugs, stupidity, timidity, illegality, lust, criminality, and corruption are all I have to say about those. Yes, not only has President Bush, and his father, been a good man, they have been good family men. Their wives have been powerful ladies, but ladies indeed. The wives have had ideas, supported programs, but more, they supported their men, their husbands, and their whole families first. I have been pleased to have these people, as people, represent my nation domestically and internationally.
I can see that last bit more with Romney, much more than with Thompson, if Thompson might have been a bit more conservative (questionable). I do think Romney is a bit slick looking, yet I am making some room as I am seeing him look more human in his exhausting run. As I see my choices dwindle, it is down to writing in a candidate or Romney. I thought if Thompson dropped, I would fold, but I have changed my mind. As I think about this last… I wonder… By their fruits will they be known… Sorry Fred, Romney has you there. But, Lord knows, McCain and Rudy are horrid choices that way as well.
I am taking a break from study. I have studied off and on all weekend for my test later today. It is supposed to rain, freeze, slush, then snow before class, so I am not sure it will happen. Still, I would rather be ready than be wrong. I have rewritten my notes and redone my homework twice, and am about to hit it again. I did not really have time to try some of those problems I wrote down which were extras, but they will get done. If nothing else, I want them for my final review. Well, off I go. Oh, I believe I am finished pouting. Not sure what that was really about… a little anger at the slow blogging (he is lying), but I think more an ongoing frustration with my tobacco thing. Well, I am happy to be pissed, it means I am winning that fight.
Blessings. And yes, even if I do not agree with you, heck, even if you or I do not like the other… I do love you. Once again, blessings.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Fighting… (Day 21, technically and here)
Do you really want to know how to fight? First question, have you ever been in a fight before? If the answer is no, less than 5, really, less than many, there is no real way to train you. I, or much better trainers, could teach you how to stand, move, attack, defend, and when to run. Yes, run, in war, there is no room for pride. Tuck that up around warm fuzzies, fear, and a few other things, and learn how to deal with or ignore those super fast or over-ride them (depending on humidity, mood, feel of the thing, etc) as you go into war. No matter what anyone teaches you, however, this learning means nothing without context. Think of it this way, if I told you how to do calculus, could you do it? If you did not already know how, the answer would be “No”, do not jive me or you.
So, you really want to learn how to fight? Ok, but you are probably not going to like this. As well, if you are really that stupid, understand you may not survive. There is only one way to learn how to fight, that is by getting the stupid kicked right out of you. Yes, you will have to fight. Most likely you will be fighting people who know how to fight and probably even enjoy it. Needless to say, you will lose. You will lose not once, not twice, you will lose until you strengthen up, smarten up, and mean up. After you have had your ass handed to you several times, then I would guess is about when you might consider going in for training. At this point, you will understand some things. At this point, when your teacher shows you something, you will know why that is better and he will have your attention. When he shows you how to avoid pain, it will mean something. When he shows you how to inflict pain in order to end the thing without death, you will understand that. And, when he teaches you how to know you are way out of your league and how to manage that, it will grab you like pliers on your testicles. Sorry ladies, this is for men only. You, ladies, might be able to avoid, escape, elude, and a few other things, but you will never be trained to tackle a male warrior of any quality, thankfully there are guns. Get one, learn it, practice, and be quiet.
Now, if you are psychotic enough to be interested in fighting, and really are going through with it, I might suggest starting out slowly. Perhaps country bars, go in dressed like a city slicker (nowadays most people in those bars are city slickers dressed as cow pokes and cow girls, it is the notion that will upset things). Then act like they are hicks and should accommodate you. Insulting pretty women who are in the company of a man (or not for a real stir) is one good way of getting the thing going. Noticing some are actual city slickers and laughing about that works too. Whatever, at this point I would advise you to stick to country, rock, and maybe punk bars for your experience. Keep whichever venue you choose relatively mainstream. Your chances of just getting pounded upon are good, and control should be kept in those situations by the establishments. Keep the hell away from biker bars, sailor bars, marine bars, and a few other places. You have not earned your keys to these and may end up worse than a little bruised. You probably cannot even physically take the pounding yet, let alone what else you might face. You need to learn to pick your fights, then survive them, before tackling those last. Oh, if you have the capacity, in and out friend. Give and take some licks, then get out fast. Later, learn how to lure the thing outside, once you think you can survive (and limit your draw).
Now, after you have been pounded into the dirt a few times (maybe even gotten lucky and won), it is time to seek a trainer. Boxing is not bad, but it is a slow way to learn. Wrestling has some advantages, but like boxing, it is a slow way to go. I really would focus on practical hand to hand combat initially. Stay away from Tae Kwan do until you have improved simpler and more direct applications, legs last in my opinion. After you have mastered hand-to-hand (better several forms of hand-to-hand in a mixed bag), go on to legs, wrestling, or maybe boxing for fitness. How far you go depends on how far you want to take it. Now, telling most sensei you are actively engaging in live wild combat might not be easy, but you must do this. Most likely, he will disengage training. However, I suspect you will eventually find a master who understands. He might even, eventually, wish to watch and critique. Oh, horrors… Yes, sometimes a good master understands that training is useless without live-fire exercises. The dojo is fine, but it is controlled, so there is much that can be missed.
Well, that is my opinion. Granted, I have never officially been trained. I learned to fight as a tot, I learned how to take damage, think on my feet, and deliver horror, pain, and whatever else was necessary in order that I might, if not always prevail, at least come out with the least damage possible. You might be surprised what a little experience, keen senses, a hungry yet controlled vengeance, and keeping one’s head on one’s shoulder really can accomplish. Anything I may or may not have come into contact educationally after my teens was merely a refresher. Oh, I also think you are an idiot, most likely. If you have not been lead to become a fighter to this point, you probably never will. You will be trading in what you are for something you may not be able to handle being, and you might not survive the trek. I have spent nigh on to 15 of the last 20 years hiding from that life. Only the last 5 years have I finally decided to face that. Still... Es ist mir egal.
(This article is for entertainment purposes. Any legal responsibility lies solely with the reader. This is neither meant to be actual practical advice, nor literally interpreted in any manner which might induce actionable responses.)
Go, go, go, get em’!!!
So, you really want to learn how to fight? Ok, but you are probably not going to like this. As well, if you are really that stupid, understand you may not survive. There is only one way to learn how to fight, that is by getting the stupid kicked right out of you. Yes, you will have to fight. Most likely you will be fighting people who know how to fight and probably even enjoy it. Needless to say, you will lose. You will lose not once, not twice, you will lose until you strengthen up, smarten up, and mean up. After you have had your ass handed to you several times, then I would guess is about when you might consider going in for training. At this point, you will understand some things. At this point, when your teacher shows you something, you will know why that is better and he will have your attention. When he shows you how to avoid pain, it will mean something. When he shows you how to inflict pain in order to end the thing without death, you will understand that. And, when he teaches you how to know you are way out of your league and how to manage that, it will grab you like pliers on your testicles. Sorry ladies, this is for men only. You, ladies, might be able to avoid, escape, elude, and a few other things, but you will never be trained to tackle a male warrior of any quality, thankfully there are guns. Get one, learn it, practice, and be quiet.
Now, if you are psychotic enough to be interested in fighting, and really are going through with it, I might suggest starting out slowly. Perhaps country bars, go in dressed like a city slicker (nowadays most people in those bars are city slickers dressed as cow pokes and cow girls, it is the notion that will upset things). Then act like they are hicks and should accommodate you. Insulting pretty women who are in the company of a man (or not for a real stir) is one good way of getting the thing going. Noticing some are actual city slickers and laughing about that works too. Whatever, at this point I would advise you to stick to country, rock, and maybe punk bars for your experience. Keep whichever venue you choose relatively mainstream. Your chances of just getting pounded upon are good, and control should be kept in those situations by the establishments. Keep the hell away from biker bars, sailor bars, marine bars, and a few other places. You have not earned your keys to these and may end up worse than a little bruised. You probably cannot even physically take the pounding yet, let alone what else you might face. You need to learn to pick your fights, then survive them, before tackling those last. Oh, if you have the capacity, in and out friend. Give and take some licks, then get out fast. Later, learn how to lure the thing outside, once you think you can survive (and limit your draw).
Now, after you have been pounded into the dirt a few times (maybe even gotten lucky and won), it is time to seek a trainer. Boxing is not bad, but it is a slow way to learn. Wrestling has some advantages, but like boxing, it is a slow way to go. I really would focus on practical hand to hand combat initially. Stay away from Tae Kwan do until you have improved simpler and more direct applications, legs last in my opinion. After you have mastered hand-to-hand (better several forms of hand-to-hand in a mixed bag), go on to legs, wrestling, or maybe boxing for fitness. How far you go depends on how far you want to take it. Now, telling most sensei you are actively engaging in live wild combat might not be easy, but you must do this. Most likely, he will disengage training. However, I suspect you will eventually find a master who understands. He might even, eventually, wish to watch and critique. Oh, horrors… Yes, sometimes a good master understands that training is useless without live-fire exercises. The dojo is fine, but it is controlled, so there is much that can be missed.
Well, that is my opinion. Granted, I have never officially been trained. I learned to fight as a tot, I learned how to take damage, think on my feet, and deliver horror, pain, and whatever else was necessary in order that I might, if not always prevail, at least come out with the least damage possible. You might be surprised what a little experience, keen senses, a hungry yet controlled vengeance, and keeping one’s head on one’s shoulder really can accomplish. Anything I may or may not have come into contact educationally after my teens was merely a refresher. Oh, I also think you are an idiot, most likely. If you have not been lead to become a fighter to this point, you probably never will. You will be trading in what you are for something you may not be able to handle being, and you might not survive the trek. I have spent nigh on to 15 of the last 20 years hiding from that life. Only the last 5 years have I finally decided to face that. Still... Es ist mir egal.
(This article is for entertainment purposes. Any legal responsibility lies solely with the reader. This is neither meant to be actual practical advice, nor literally interpreted in any manner which might induce actionable responses.)
Go, go, go, get em’!!!
How much more? Day 21
No one seems to be writing, commenting, or even responding to comments. I am joining the writers strike. I will do something each day, about this size anyway. It should be no more impotent than a long post and yet be easier to muck through. I have been avoiding comments unless something really strikes me and then I am able to comment with at least some skill. I just do not have what I need to write, well anyway. Neither, at the moment, do I have the nerve to push beyond my emptiness. Frustrating, but that is the way of it. Then again, I always wonder if this is the way it is temporarily, or if I am just cognizant of it at this point. Could one ever know?
Are you short in stature? Go to China, still short? Which is true?
Are you short in stature? Go to China, still short? Which is true?
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Friday, January 25, 2008
Do I want to know? Day 18
I woke nicely. After a great, uninterrupted, restful sleep, I did struggle to become awake, a bit. In a reasonable amount of time, however, the feet hit the floor and I started looking around the place. My appointment is a bit off, and I am a bit nervous. What did my doctor and counselor decide? Was a decision derived, or did they agree to have ongoing conversations with me, so that this thing will turn into a nightmare of ongoing proportions. I will know in just a bit.
I was reading the news today, and noticed John McCain’s mother had indicated that John had no support with the base. I just roared. I knew if I was running for president, I would have been so unhappy with my mother for saying that (true as it is). She has said other things which just do not fit in politics this election cycle. She is a loose cannon. Oh, right, I guess that is his way, now we know where at least some of that comes. Now, she is 95 years old, or so, managing her might be a wee complicated, especially adding that she seems to have her wits about her. He really has nowhere to go for redress, and I hope even if it makes him angry that he enjoys the fact that moms are just moms and will be our moms until probably after their funeral service.
I cannot remember all I must do today. The doctors and study for a test Tuesday, without question. What else, I do not know. Oh, right, I really have to quit commenting. I am surprised I have not been banned. I keep looking at the two to three word, at most sentence, comments of others and then see mine. People could not like that.
Update:
After doing all the work and pushing past my nature to get something done, in a rush, requiring this that and the other thing, it appears... it was all for naught. The paperwork I had rushed to get completed and to my doctor, in an ongoing attempt to enable VA Voc. Rehab. to re-initiate my program and funding, which I completed and waited to hand to a real and talking human person of some significance, and though I was assured it would be given to the doctor and the call would be made... did not happen.
Well, the seeming worst case scenario was always a possibility. Not receiving funding for school this term. Still, that stings. However, in truth, that is not the actual worst case scenario. The Rehab. people may have closed and buried my case. That is where the thing stood. I had indicated that when I turned in the paper work, when I had spoken with my doctor, no one could have misunderstood. Now, I wait. My doctor indicated, today, that he would call me and tell me how any contact he makes worked. I am more than a bit nervous at this point. I suspect I will begin looking for alternative financial aid packages, but that will be tight and lean for certain reasons.
How to live like you were used to living on allowance... It could be a book. One I may need to read. Am I supposed to give up my lifestyle, what of it I even actually have, to be a monk student? I do not know, I would certainly have to re-evaluate the whole thing, and look at what financial aid is honestly available. Hmmm, 4 years of three-quarter time education and a few summer courses (more like 3 years if I can find 2 summer classes each year). That is a long time to monk it. Students loans, perhaps, but that might even be a bit tight. Thinking... And waiting... Oh, and a little (lot) pissed... Then again, at least this time and beyond any doubt, it was not my fault. I wonder, how many times has it not been my fault and I just took it because I could not remember? More often than not, I am thinking. *steaming*
I was reading the news today, and noticed John McCain’s mother had indicated that John had no support with the base. I just roared. I knew if I was running for president, I would have been so unhappy with my mother for saying that (true as it is). She has said other things which just do not fit in politics this election cycle. She is a loose cannon. Oh, right, I guess that is his way, now we know where at least some of that comes. Now, she is 95 years old, or so, managing her might be a wee complicated, especially adding that she seems to have her wits about her. He really has nowhere to go for redress, and I hope even if it makes him angry that he enjoys the fact that moms are just moms and will be our moms until probably after their funeral service.
I cannot remember all I must do today. The doctors and study for a test Tuesday, without question. What else, I do not know. Oh, right, I really have to quit commenting. I am surprised I have not been banned. I keep looking at the two to three word, at most sentence, comments of others and then see mine. People could not like that.
Update:
After doing all the work and pushing past my nature to get something done, in a rush, requiring this that and the other thing, it appears... it was all for naught. The paperwork I had rushed to get completed and to my doctor, in an ongoing attempt to enable VA Voc. Rehab. to re-initiate my program and funding, which I completed and waited to hand to a real and talking human person of some significance, and though I was assured it would be given to the doctor and the call would be made... did not happen.
Well, the seeming worst case scenario was always a possibility. Not receiving funding for school this term. Still, that stings. However, in truth, that is not the actual worst case scenario. The Rehab. people may have closed and buried my case. That is where the thing stood. I had indicated that when I turned in the paper work, when I had spoken with my doctor, no one could have misunderstood. Now, I wait. My doctor indicated, today, that he would call me and tell me how any contact he makes worked. I am more than a bit nervous at this point. I suspect I will begin looking for alternative financial aid packages, but that will be tight and lean for certain reasons.
How to live like you were used to living on allowance... It could be a book. One I may need to read. Am I supposed to give up my lifestyle, what of it I even actually have, to be a monk student? I do not know, I would certainly have to re-evaluate the whole thing, and look at what financial aid is honestly available. Hmmm, 4 years of three-quarter time education and a few summer courses (more like 3 years if I can find 2 summer classes each year). That is a long time to monk it. Students loans, perhaps, but that might even be a bit tight. Thinking... And waiting... Oh, and a little (lot) pissed... Then again, at least this time and beyond any doubt, it was not my fault. I wonder, how many times has it not been my fault and I just took it because I could not remember? More often than not, I am thinking. *steaming*
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Well, I had a very busy day, I think?
As I said, I could not sleep a wink last night. Still, it was fine this morning. I was already up of course, and then I showered, dressed, and at my only (first as it turns out) appointment fifteen minutes early (and I was seen early, that is always a bonus, though never to be expected). We covered enough material in order that I might get a good grip on my road to graduation. As well, we covered old issues, unfinished business really, and the various means of dealing with it all. Of course, I completed both of the recommended steps to manage the old business (an email to a former professor of mine, and an administrative query), however, administrations do not work just because one has done their part (first step). But things are on the road. With old business being tended, a recommended schedule to graduation (with all but one terms at ¾ level, one full-time term, (9 and 12 credits, respectively), and weak summers I hope to find a way to beef up in order to graduate fast, I have about four years. Now, I know that is stretching it too, actually. I know I have more non-engineering credits and some engineering credits for which she is not accounting. I suspect that, with 2 course summers, that 12 credit term, and a few other tweaks, I should be done in 3 years. A long time, and that makes me nervous about VA Voc Rehab. So, I also discussed other financial aid sources.
After that, I returned home. I remember that my tooth had been bothering me, with the lollipops and bubble and chewing gum excesses of late, it felt as if a cavity was coming loose. So, I buzzed the VA, and they had just had a cancellation and so saw me right away. I get ready and make that appointment. There went my nap before class, risky as a nap might have been. But I was not done.
Actually, I may find out good or bad new tomorrow regarding VA Voc Rehab. As I had noted, I gave my doctor written permission to speak directly with the VA VR counselor and then had also given him the phone number. I believe a call was placed the day I did so. I have heard nothing from either party since. Tomorrow I will know at least what occurred in the conversation. Either way, my work is not unimportant. I have assessed my professional advancement, such as it is. I have started planning to win, while understanding reality. I have started looking for funding, of several sort.
I am feeling better about class. I will be taking a test next Tuesday. I was able to get in early, however, I was stuck messing with a problem from class and was not able to see my instructor about the book. However, he was gracious enough to stay a little longer and let me take down the non-homework graded problems so that I might begin a further study having some hope I might eventually know. I just took down the numbers, As I get into them, then I may check. Although having been up and busy all last night and this morning, I was in pretty poor shape for class. That I was there anyway was good.
I really need sleep. A drink almost sounds good but I think I would end up wearing more of it than not. I should be able to wake easily tomorrow, and make it to the appointment.
Hmmm, on another note, it is supposed to warm up here, and soon. I hope all the snow does not disappear before I get to ski next week. I would be truly depressed. I have waited, worked, and pouted myself a bit into this opportunity. Though, too, I know this will not be the last snow.
I have got to crash. Have a great night. I would love to straighten this out, add some common sense to the thing, and make you all happy (you, there is only one of you here;), but I am all in. Be a dear, and if you are more ambitious than I and of a mood to do so, flip a few paragraphs around, ordering time a bit better. Oh, and see to the grammar, spelling, and word usage at your leisure. Or, just enjoy the oddity. Good night, Louise!
After that, I returned home. I remember that my tooth had been bothering me, with the lollipops and bubble and chewing gum excesses of late, it felt as if a cavity was coming loose. So, I buzzed the VA, and they had just had a cancellation and so saw me right away. I get ready and make that appointment. There went my nap before class, risky as a nap might have been. But I was not done.
Actually, I may find out good or bad new tomorrow regarding VA Voc Rehab. As I had noted, I gave my doctor written permission to speak directly with the VA VR counselor and then had also given him the phone number. I believe a call was placed the day I did so. I have heard nothing from either party since. Tomorrow I will know at least what occurred in the conversation. Either way, my work is not unimportant. I have assessed my professional advancement, such as it is. I have started planning to win, while understanding reality. I have started looking for funding, of several sort.
I am feeling better about class. I will be taking a test next Tuesday. I was able to get in early, however, I was stuck messing with a problem from class and was not able to see my instructor about the book. However, he was gracious enough to stay a little longer and let me take down the non-homework graded problems so that I might begin a further study having some hope I might eventually know. I just took down the numbers, As I get into them, then I may check. Although having been up and busy all last night and this morning, I was in pretty poor shape for class. That I was there anyway was good.
I really need sleep. A drink almost sounds good but I think I would end up wearing more of it than not. I should be able to wake easily tomorrow, and make it to the appointment.
Hmmm, on another note, it is supposed to warm up here, and soon. I hope all the snow does not disappear before I get to ski next week. I would be truly depressed. I have waited, worked, and pouted myself a bit into this opportunity. Though, too, I know this will not be the last snow.
I have got to crash. Have a great night. I would love to straighten this out, add some common sense to the thing, and make you all happy (you, there is only one of you here;), but I am all in. Be a dear, and if you are more ambitious than I and of a mood to do so, flip a few paragraphs around, ordering time a bit better. Oh, and see to the grammar, spelling, and word usage at your leisure. Or, just enjoy the oddity. Good night, Louise!
I could not sleep. Day 17
I am not sure what the deal is, but as yesterday seemed to be a sleepthrough, today and last night was a sleepout. Not an hour of sleep did I get, nor could I even approach the process. My body just said no. Well, fine, I have an appointment this morning. I was able to reset my appointment quickly. I think there was time so that I could have done it yesterday, but that just was not going to happen. Now, I have class this afternoon, so I may try to get some sleep. I need to be careful though, as it would be really easy to oversleep and I am very much trying to make classes.
I did some work last night, homework from class. I looked at a lot of things, and figured a few things out (I think). But this would be akin to me taking the average driver into a room, telling them a bit of mild theory regarding an engine, and then asking them how the drive shaft would turn (speed and direction), if I twisted something which I have not taught about, and which really was not even involved with the theory. And, of course, this is practically based, though theoretical in that the practical is impossible (or could be), only being theoretically functional based upon some given instructions and allowances. Did that confuse you? Gee, I am sorry.
I did make some progress, but I certainly do not understand this. As I said, this is not a source of stress. I will either do, or not. I am pretty sure I cannot know, if I get close the object will be moved or obscured. Though I am to learn, it is not in that type of objective manner. I am to learn through learning itself. I am not sure I agree with the approach, but I have no power, so I pay the bill and play the game. My instructor writes back, and is as elusive as what lead me to write him, or nearly so. Each time I pick up something. Sometimes I kick myself for not having seen it originally and myself, other times I realize he is not talking about anything from which I can make heads or tails. Then again, on occasion I get a spark from that, go look things over again and figure something out (I think… not sure what I “figured out” is correct, and there is no way to know).
I called my preferred ski rental shop yesterday. It seems as if the price is $15 a day, $30 for M-F, or $60 for 7 days. I will probably be doing the $30 at least twice a month. That gives me a lot more time to go when I feel like it and maybe a bit more often. It would be great to be able to do that every week, but it is a bit of money, with school costs also bearing down atm. I had intended to rent for a day today, but without getting rest last night, I do not think it wise to both end up with little rest and exertion pulling me down as I head into class, trying to glean an ounce of reason from whatever sources are available.
Oh, I best be off. A shower, a shave, a few brushings, and I will be off to see the academic advisor. After seeing what the school I am attending now offers for physics, I may take a look at what the U. of I. offers. I am tired of playing education bingo, I am looking for solid teaching, not this game thing, at least when I can get it my way. I am off!
I did some work last night, homework from class. I looked at a lot of things, and figured a few things out (I think). But this would be akin to me taking the average driver into a room, telling them a bit of mild theory regarding an engine, and then asking them how the drive shaft would turn (speed and direction), if I twisted something which I have not taught about, and which really was not even involved with the theory. And, of course, this is practically based, though theoretical in that the practical is impossible (or could be), only being theoretically functional based upon some given instructions and allowances. Did that confuse you? Gee, I am sorry.
I did make some progress, but I certainly do not understand this. As I said, this is not a source of stress. I will either do, or not. I am pretty sure I cannot know, if I get close the object will be moved or obscured. Though I am to learn, it is not in that type of objective manner. I am to learn through learning itself. I am not sure I agree with the approach, but I have no power, so I pay the bill and play the game. My instructor writes back, and is as elusive as what lead me to write him, or nearly so. Each time I pick up something. Sometimes I kick myself for not having seen it originally and myself, other times I realize he is not talking about anything from which I can make heads or tails. Then again, on occasion I get a spark from that, go look things over again and figure something out (I think… not sure what I “figured out” is correct, and there is no way to know).
I called my preferred ski rental shop yesterday. It seems as if the price is $15 a day, $30 for M-F, or $60 for 7 days. I will probably be doing the $30 at least twice a month. That gives me a lot more time to go when I feel like it and maybe a bit more often. It would be great to be able to do that every week, but it is a bit of money, with school costs also bearing down atm. I had intended to rent for a day today, but without getting rest last night, I do not think it wise to both end up with little rest and exertion pulling me down as I head into class, trying to glean an ounce of reason from whatever sources are available.
Oh, I best be off. A shower, a shave, a few brushings, and I will be off to see the academic advisor. After seeing what the school I am attending now offers for physics, I may take a look at what the U. of I. offers. I am tired of playing education bingo, I am looking for solid teaching, not this game thing, at least when I can get it my way. I am off!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
I cannot even seem to comment well. 16
I started by telling Cruel Virgin that I would not comment there. I felt that I was in echo mode. It was not to slight her views, or discourage her writing, I was just stating what I thought was obvious. She disagreed, though she seemed to understand. Then, I started noticing that I just could not comment well anywhere. I was off at least a quarter of a degree, my comments lacked interest, definition, humor, or my living human manner. I feel as if my comments (and blog posts) are stale, like cardboard, and flat just so.
I have tried to write a comment recently, several times, only to just end up leaving without posting. Nothing I was about to post was offensive, for the most part (some truth is offensive, but there is a difference between offensive opinion and offensive fact). I just do not wish to leave little nothings, with no life, often off topic to some degree, and more just blathering than not.
I am not sure what to do about it. I will continue to blog. I am trying to put at least one thing out per day. It may be dry, flat, tasteless, and stale, but it will give me something to do, keep my writing skills at least in ready reserves, and hopefully when the flow returns, I may just splurge and surge.
Oh, the good thing is, as I mentioned at Cruel Virgin’s place… this is as bad as it gets. I have come a hell of a long way, from wanting to pull the plug every time the wind changed direction, I sneezed, or a chill ran through the room to not even noticing a hurricane, and dealing pretty well with this privation and that befoulment. I have even found some power and some brilliance in the old body. It might even be made functionable! I could get through school, or at least learn to mountain man a bit (hobby form, mostly). I might be able to find a good woman, spin her up, pop out a few mini-mes, and show her a wonderful world. Yes, I have come a ways.
Now, like that last as I do, it does not change the shape I am in currently or overall (in a way). So, I still have to grumble and gripe my way through, at the moment. And, I will do it, but I do not have to like it. Which, really, is fine. At least this time I have a little value added to the typical work like this. It has been 16 days and counting. I think from now on, I will put the number of days tobacco free in the title.
I have tried to write a comment recently, several times, only to just end up leaving without posting. Nothing I was about to post was offensive, for the most part (some truth is offensive, but there is a difference between offensive opinion and offensive fact). I just do not wish to leave little nothings, with no life, often off topic to some degree, and more just blathering than not.
I am not sure what to do about it. I will continue to blog. I am trying to put at least one thing out per day. It may be dry, flat, tasteless, and stale, but it will give me something to do, keep my writing skills at least in ready reserves, and hopefully when the flow returns, I may just splurge and surge.
Oh, the good thing is, as I mentioned at Cruel Virgin’s place… this is as bad as it gets. I have come a hell of a long way, from wanting to pull the plug every time the wind changed direction, I sneezed, or a chill ran through the room to not even noticing a hurricane, and dealing pretty well with this privation and that befoulment. I have even found some power and some brilliance in the old body. It might even be made functionable! I could get through school, or at least learn to mountain man a bit (hobby form, mostly). I might be able to find a good woman, spin her up, pop out a few mini-mes, and show her a wonderful world. Yes, I have come a ways.
Now, like that last as I do, it does not change the shape I am in currently or overall (in a way). So, I still have to grumble and gripe my way through, at the moment. And, I will do it, but I do not have to like it. Which, really, is fine. At least this time I have a little value added to the typical work like this. It has been 16 days and counting. I think from now on, I will put the number of days tobacco free in the title.
Weird day.
Well, I got much of the list completed. I did not call the dentist, it just slipped. As well, I have had a devil of a time staying awake. Sleeping on and off, crashing to sleep then dragging my self back to consciousness. And, it looks like I will need to shovel the snow. I do not believe the snow blower is the way I should go. As I said, I believe I will shovel.
After the announcement that Fred Thompson was withdrawing from the race, I realize there is no one running who is representative of my views. The remaining candidates are either liberal or “conservative” versions of progressive politics. Thompson would have been tolerable at most, he is not a great loss individually. However, he was the only marginally conservative candidate remaining in the race and in his loss is an end of hope for this election cycle. To the south of him, the Huck McJuliomny conglomeration is just a Democratic preference. If one of those four win, the Democrats realize they will still have a Democrat in office. And of course, who would vote for a weak Democrat when they could have the real deal? People drank RC because it was cheap, votes are free if the cost will arrive harshly in truth and in time, short or long. Neither a conservative, liberal, or moderate would vote for a leftist conservative, so the beast of four is headed for solid defeat. Will I vote? Maybe, but not for anyone running. There is a blank line, and for president, I will use this. Oh, and it will not be Fred “barely saw ya, barely knew ya, gotta go” Thompson, it will be Hunter who gets my nod.
I just called my Mother. I started thinking, with all this snow, I wonder if she has enough food and things laid in so that she can handle an extended period down? Does she have people coming by and checking in and on her? The call was good, she is doing well. She has plenty of provisions. And, she is being tended, at least twice daily, by visitors or phone checks. Anyway, now I had best get out and do that bit of shoveling. Though I will not do my several of my neighbor's walks and such this time.
After the announcement that Fred Thompson was withdrawing from the race, I realize there is no one running who is representative of my views. The remaining candidates are either liberal or “conservative” versions of progressive politics. Thompson would have been tolerable at most, he is not a great loss individually. However, he was the only marginally conservative candidate remaining in the race and in his loss is an end of hope for this election cycle. To the south of him, the Huck McJuliomny conglomeration is just a Democratic preference. If one of those four win, the Democrats realize they will still have a Democrat in office. And of course, who would vote for a weak Democrat when they could have the real deal? People drank RC because it was cheap, votes are free if the cost will arrive harshly in truth and in time, short or long. Neither a conservative, liberal, or moderate would vote for a leftist conservative, so the beast of four is headed for solid defeat. Will I vote? Maybe, but not for anyone running. There is a blank line, and for president, I will use this. Oh, and it will not be Fred “barely saw ya, barely knew ya, gotta go” Thompson, it will be Hunter who gets my nod.
I just called my Mother. I started thinking, with all this snow, I wonder if she has enough food and things laid in so that she can handle an extended period down? Does she have people coming by and checking in and on her? The call was good, she is doing well. She has plenty of provisions. And, she is being tended, at least twice daily, by visitors or phone checks. Anyway, now I had best get out and do that bit of shoveling. Though I will not do my several of my neighbor's walks and such this time.
It could be a great day.
I awoke very early, though I had been ready to sleep last night at 22:00 or so. Sleep was wonderful, actually. It was restful, satisfying, and felt long and full in spite of having the need to get up 3 times to use the facilities. I had consumed anchovies a few hours before bed, and the saltiness of it took me more by surprise than I remembered, so I needed to drink a couple of quarts of water. I suppose I was a bit dehydrated and I suppose quitting chewing is changing tastes, spittle biological function, and such. I may have dreamed, though I cannot remember. I have a suspicion I had pleasant dreams.
I started gathering my trash, in order to put that out. Imagine that, the place actually looks a lot better. It was not as bad as I had started to suspect. As I was getting things prepared to be taken out, I started thinking that there are many things needing attendance. A new list is in the offing. School did not restart last night, by the way. I suspect the school needed to do more than just clean the lots of the new snow. We have had a great deal of snow and in a very relatively short period of time. I suspect they needed to rearrange how and where they are stacking the white stuff.
I need to find out about getting another appointment with the U. of I. engineering academic adviser, she has not called back. I also need to check with my dentist. I seem to have chewed enough lollipops to loosen a cavity or two. They are a bit painful from time to time. As well, I hope to actually call about ski rentals, and if I find myself pleased with a particular rental shop from the conversations, perhaps a visit to the shop to set up size for future rental reference. There are a few more items on my list, but that is a start. I might just get a bunch done. Oh, and I want to look over the school work and next chapter too.
Oh, I wish I could write something interesting, but for right now… This is as good as it gets. I am mostly, right now, just writing to do something, as far as the blog goes. It really is all I have to offer. Sorry. I feel flat, dull, and slow. I am sure it shows.
I started gathering my trash, in order to put that out. Imagine that, the place actually looks a lot better. It was not as bad as I had started to suspect. As I was getting things prepared to be taken out, I started thinking that there are many things needing attendance. A new list is in the offing. School did not restart last night, by the way. I suspect the school needed to do more than just clean the lots of the new snow. We have had a great deal of snow and in a very relatively short period of time. I suspect they needed to rearrange how and where they are stacking the white stuff.
I need to find out about getting another appointment with the U. of I. engineering academic adviser, she has not called back. I also need to check with my dentist. I seem to have chewed enough lollipops to loosen a cavity or two. They are a bit painful from time to time. As well, I hope to actually call about ski rentals, and if I find myself pleased with a particular rental shop from the conversations, perhaps a visit to the shop to set up size for future rental reference. There are a few more items on my list, but that is a start. I might just get a bunch done. Oh, and I want to look over the school work and next chapter too.
Oh, I wish I could write something interesting, but for right now… This is as good as it gets. I am mostly, right now, just writing to do something, as far as the blog goes. It really is all I have to offer. Sorry. I feel flat, dull, and slow. I am sure it shows.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
It has been 15 days, starting the morning of January 7th, since I quite Tobacco.
Oh, it is not much, really. People do it every day, honestly. Though not everyone who quits stays tobacco free this long, yet some who make it this far end up going back to tobacco. I am not finished, and there are no guarantees, just my surety. I just checked the ticker on that, my surety was never a high-flyer, and it is not even decently humble value wise these days. But, it is what I have, it is what I offer, it will do. In an artificial world with odd connects and disconnects, our word, when held in honest relief to our actions, no matter who we are, is weak. Those whose words are nearly a correlation with their action are people who have learned not to speak until a job is done or all but done. If our will is not our own, which I believe or at least the results of our will are not our own, then what we ever intend almost cannot be. Even if we are deeply involved with God, it is not for us to know, not most of us, and not in a functional way anyway (leaving some room for prophecies and certain acts, such as those of Moses and the others at God’s behest).
I am still twitchy, I am still hungry, and I am still moody. Each has faded, a bit. Mood is the most explosive, and thus what I keep a closer tab upon. Hunger comes in next. Actually, hunger is the dominant gremlin in the lot, but since it is less destructive, it is allowed a little more room for indulgence. The twitchy part is slacking and is the easiest to deal with anyway. I am pleased that I have made it this far. Even if I mess up tomorrow, I have 15 days down.
Rocky has whittled his playmates down to 5. Usually I name none of the goldfish per batch, however, every second or third batch I see a fish that is either lucky, a bit smarter, or has a coloration which allows it to survive longer (only has to survive long enough to become big enough that Rocky cannot get him, or about 6 to 8 weeks, far less if it becomes the singular fish). I have spotted one which is being contemplated as to a name. When I first got him, I wondered, something seemed right about him. After two and a half batches, I am pretty sure. Now, I have to consider a name for him though. It is still a gamble, and I hate to then lose a named fish, but, what is life without some risk? We will see, I have been having difficulty coming up with a name I like, wish us luck? Ha.
I am still twitchy, I am still hungry, and I am still moody. Each has faded, a bit. Mood is the most explosive, and thus what I keep a closer tab upon. Hunger comes in next. Actually, hunger is the dominant gremlin in the lot, but since it is less destructive, it is allowed a little more room for indulgence. The twitchy part is slacking and is the easiest to deal with anyway. I am pleased that I have made it this far. Even if I mess up tomorrow, I have 15 days down.
Rocky has whittled his playmates down to 5. Usually I name none of the goldfish per batch, however, every second or third batch I see a fish that is either lucky, a bit smarter, or has a coloration which allows it to survive longer (only has to survive long enough to become big enough that Rocky cannot get him, or about 6 to 8 weeks, far less if it becomes the singular fish). I have spotted one which is being contemplated as to a name. When I first got him, I wondered, something seemed right about him. After two and a half batches, I am pretty sure. Now, I have to consider a name for him though. It is still a gamble, and I hate to then lose a named fish, but, what is life without some risk? We will see, I have been having difficulty coming up with a name I like, wish us luck? Ha.
Lots of fluffy white stuff!
It is raining snow flakes and… well, snow flakes. What with the leash laws, there are no more dogs and cats to rain, plus, it is winter. I have had the snow blower out three times this week, or after today. I cannot remember if I shoveled too within this week, or if that was the end of last week. I have been going way down, doing sidewalks two and three houses down (until I run into a cleaned sidewalk or out of interest), and doing my whole driveway, and trying to get the duplex to my south’s two driveways. This is a great time to consider snow skiing though. School has been canceled, though I will definitely check by tonight. It has stopped snowing, and the sun is out. Twelve hours could easily mean night course could be back on track. As a fact, I suspect they will be.
Just not too much more to report. Homework went well. The only problem giving me difficulty is the same one giving my study partner difficulties. I have written my instructor about it, I will see if he can, I should say ‘will’ since I know he can, add anything. We are really being given small amounts of what is needed to solve problems. The hope is that we will hyper extend and find some solution. Now, honestly, I do not believe I have enough base material to go that distance, so I am relying on my instructor. If that is not the way it is set up, then I will fail. I will understand I do not fit. We will see, I am just not going to fret it. Bugger that whole overload overstress thing, though I will try my darnedest. Balance, I think, is the word.
Well, I am not quite dry enough to go out and battle the snow but I am just blathering here. So, I shall check the news, harass my fellow bloggers, and play some parlor game or something until this wetback gets his greencard. Hasta luego, Manana?
*poof*
Just not too much more to report. Homework went well. The only problem giving me difficulty is the same one giving my study partner difficulties. I have written my instructor about it, I will see if he can, I should say ‘will’ since I know he can, add anything. We are really being given small amounts of what is needed to solve problems. The hope is that we will hyper extend and find some solution. Now, honestly, I do not believe I have enough base material to go that distance, so I am relying on my instructor. If that is not the way it is set up, then I will fail. I will understand I do not fit. We will see, I am just not going to fret it. Bugger that whole overload overstress thing, though I will try my darnedest. Balance, I think, is the word.
Well, I am not quite dry enough to go out and battle the snow but I am just blathering here. So, I shall check the news, harass my fellow bloggers, and play some parlor game or something until this wetback gets his greencard. Hasta luego, Manana?
*poof*
Interesting!
I have wondered why the women hereabouts created very little interest from me, and visa versa.. Now, mind you, I really want to find a little woman to co-manage our future. Well, so long as she takes orders in a fundamental manner. I knew it was not here, and tonight I may have found out why. Interesting, when we do not understand, and ask, we come to know.
Tonight, while I was… having a sip or so… I was checking out my new TV. Well, it is actually an old TV. HDTV, one of the first 32 inch tube ones, and Sony so it ought to be good. I did not and still do not like flat TVs. They really are not as good. They are thinner, and lighter, like modern women… That should be enough. Ok, fine, thinner and lighter means fewer children (and lower quality video). Well, ok, my tastes in women and TVs, among many things, are a bit dated. I suppose, that leads into the actual topic. As I was saying above, I wondered.
As I was watching my better viewing crappy old school TV, I was clicking around like an honorable American male (red blooded, mostly). Three clickers at the ready, I first set up the cable channels, adjusted the 1000W receiver, attempted to get things just right (which I have as of yet failed to do). Then, I looked at Sci-Fi (which seems more on trek with MTV (pre-kid-talk-show, but about to change). It is junk. The Liberal, I mean… nature and history channels have, if anything, turned even stupider (lefter). Then, as I clicked and complained… I found it! The reason for my difficulties.
On one channel, still broadcasting truth and science, my difficulty was explained. It seems, when women are using birth control, they choose poorly. They choose males who make poor mates. They also lose their sex drive. Meaning, as far as I am concerned, they get what they deserve. I know, when I wrote recently at Bane’s, I meant something… about a pretty woman he had posted (not the nasties, I am not in to porn, this one was… tasteful, to my eyes in any case, mostly). I could not put it fully into words until I heard it tonight. Without the raw unfettered pheromone of raw woman, I cannot find interest. Nor would they be able to find it in me. In their changed chemistry, I would be overpowering. Perhaps, if I can find a good woman, I will learn, know, and teach. And… a few other things. Stupid broads, get off the poison.
Tonight, while I was… having a sip or so… I was checking out my new TV. Well, it is actually an old TV. HDTV, one of the first 32 inch tube ones, and Sony so it ought to be good. I did not and still do not like flat TVs. They really are not as good. They are thinner, and lighter, like modern women… That should be enough. Ok, fine, thinner and lighter means fewer children (and lower quality video). Well, ok, my tastes in women and TVs, among many things, are a bit dated. I suppose, that leads into the actual topic. As I was saying above, I wondered.
As I was watching my better viewing crappy old school TV, I was clicking around like an honorable American male (red blooded, mostly). Three clickers at the ready, I first set up the cable channels, adjusted the 1000W receiver, attempted to get things just right (which I have as of yet failed to do). Then, I looked at Sci-Fi (which seems more on trek with MTV (pre-kid-talk-show, but about to change). It is junk. The Liberal, I mean… nature and history channels have, if anything, turned even stupider (lefter). Then, as I clicked and complained… I found it! The reason for my difficulties.
On one channel, still broadcasting truth and science, my difficulty was explained. It seems, when women are using birth control, they choose poorly. They choose males who make poor mates. They also lose their sex drive. Meaning, as far as I am concerned, they get what they deserve. I know, when I wrote recently at Bane’s, I meant something… about a pretty woman he had posted (not the nasties, I am not in to porn, this one was… tasteful, to my eyes in any case, mostly). I could not put it fully into words until I heard it tonight. Without the raw unfettered pheromone of raw woman, I cannot find interest. Nor would they be able to find it in me. In their changed chemistry, I would be overpowering. Perhaps, if I can find a good woman, I will learn, know, and teach. And… a few other things. Stupid broads, get off the poison.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Wow, this nicotine thing.
I keep getting mashed on this. I had hoped it would be more tolerable by now. I am, however, happy to report that I am chugging right along. I am still avoiding people, for the most part. I have fits of moods, not unlike what my early days and certain Norsemen might understand. Bear wrestling sounds fun, if I get to eat what I kill especially. Now, I refuse to blame tobacco companies. Though I was young when I started, it is not like I could not read. It is not like anyone pulled the wool over my eyes and told me this lead to health and vigor. It is not even as if other smokes pulled me in. My mother and most others, especially smokers and chewers, adamantly said “No!”. I saw older smokers, like my grandpa and his gang of rowdy ol’ boys at his favorite pool hall or in the local greasy spoon. And yeah, though his lungs were not in the best shape, and though he may have lived a few years longer (in the nursing home), I think he would rather have smoked and died at 76 then to have lived to be 82 or 92 or 150. And though I miss him, I understand.
I am not quitting to live longer. I am quitting in part because the prices have made me angry, in part because I do not like having that extra “need”, especially one I can actually be rid (if only in theory, so far). And, to save my teeth. Not that my teeth are falling out, but the gums have taken a bit of a beating. It is easily recoverable at this point, at least. Oh, and smoking as an alternative really does cut into my wind and is bad for hunting. As I gear up to get out, I do not wish to wrestle with less lung, extra pack, and an artificial unsustainable “need”, which also has a strong chance of running dinner away. Coffee and tea, meh, they pack easier, are not required, and the deer love them (he is lying).
Any quitters out there? Any real advice? Anything, in particular, which gnawing upon keeps the hunger at bay a bit without adding on tons and which helps curb the urge? Actually, something that does one or the other alone would be good. Hard candy has been of limited use, though it is something (I will not go sugarless). I know I will do this, though I would like to lighten up a bit, if not light up.
I do not know where you live, but it is co co cold here. I think 0 to 10 F has been about the usual day time temperature here for a week, maybe a bit more. Plus, there has often been a decent breeze (say 5 mph) or more moving the dry cold air refreshingly over frozen fingers, and right down lungs so that breathing through the nose becomes highly recommended. Now, I enjoy the cold, but below 20 degrees, even I like a coat, gloves, and ear muffs, mostly. If you have it better, or happen to be in Hawaii, I am happy for you. This is, actually, my favorite time of year, though a little more snow would be nice if we have to have this kind of sustained cold. A foot of snow would be cool. Do not tell my neighbors I said that, especially if we get it.
Oh, hey, is everyone on vacation? Beyond few writing, fewer even seem to notice I visited. Now, my comments may be a bit off, even a bit more off than usual. I see things in a very weird light, admittedly. And I take angles that probably do not fit modern thought, certainly might get you banned from a bridge club, and may have your wife refuse to even look at you for a week if spoken, but come on. It is me. Shoot me down, blow me off, I have had worse. And, it is my sincere hope, I am indeed getting better. At worst, find a grain of salt, put that on your tongue and immediately drive the grain of salt and your tongue in cheek. Read a little more, do that step above again, rinse and repeat as necessary. Yeah, I know women seem to be very angry lately. I am not sure if it has been my comments or my posts. I am multi-talented that way, sometimes, though.
I am not quitting to live longer. I am quitting in part because the prices have made me angry, in part because I do not like having that extra “need”, especially one I can actually be rid (if only in theory, so far). And, to save my teeth. Not that my teeth are falling out, but the gums have taken a bit of a beating. It is easily recoverable at this point, at least. Oh, and smoking as an alternative really does cut into my wind and is bad for hunting. As I gear up to get out, I do not wish to wrestle with less lung, extra pack, and an artificial unsustainable “need”, which also has a strong chance of running dinner away. Coffee and tea, meh, they pack easier, are not required, and the deer love them (he is lying).
Any quitters out there? Any real advice? Anything, in particular, which gnawing upon keeps the hunger at bay a bit without adding on tons and which helps curb the urge? Actually, something that does one or the other alone would be good. Hard candy has been of limited use, though it is something (I will not go sugarless). I know I will do this, though I would like to lighten up a bit, if not light up.
I do not know where you live, but it is co co cold here. I think 0 to 10 F has been about the usual day time temperature here for a week, maybe a bit more. Plus, there has often been a decent breeze (say 5 mph) or more moving the dry cold air refreshingly over frozen fingers, and right down lungs so that breathing through the nose becomes highly recommended. Now, I enjoy the cold, but below 20 degrees, even I like a coat, gloves, and ear muffs, mostly. If you have it better, or happen to be in Hawaii, I am happy for you. This is, actually, my favorite time of year, though a little more snow would be nice if we have to have this kind of sustained cold. A foot of snow would be cool. Do not tell my neighbors I said that, especially if we get it.
Oh, hey, is everyone on vacation? Beyond few writing, fewer even seem to notice I visited. Now, my comments may be a bit off, even a bit more off than usual. I see things in a very weird light, admittedly. And I take angles that probably do not fit modern thought, certainly might get you banned from a bridge club, and may have your wife refuse to even look at you for a week if spoken, but come on. It is me. Shoot me down, blow me off, I have had worse. And, it is my sincere hope, I am indeed getting better. At worst, find a grain of salt, put that on your tongue and immediately drive the grain of salt and your tongue in cheek. Read a little more, do that step above again, rinse and repeat as necessary. Yeah, I know women seem to be very angry lately. I am not sure if it has been my comments or my posts. I am multi-talented that way, sometimes, though.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)