Thursday

Thursday…

First of all, my apologies for not posting anything on our blog yesterday.  I was not at work and I had personal issues I had to address. It seems like most of it went my way and hopefully this current mess will be all behind me soon and I can move on with my life.  It has been a long couple of months and if I can get out of the way and my work issues taken cared of, life could be getting better.  We can only hope and pray it will all turn around and the outlook for life can be sunny once again.

Today music trivia is a British punk/new wave band I loved since the late 70s and early 80s.  Their music still stands the test of time with their great sound and easy lyrics.  Songs such as, “Allison”, “Watching the Detectives”, “Accidents will Happen” and “Peace, Love and Understanding” got lots of airplay back in the day and still do today.  Named after The King of Rock & Roll, can you name this British performer and his band?

Congratulations to the Boston Red Sox and their World Series Championship. Their third in the past decade, they went from worst to first this year.  Last year they had a dismal year, sort of like the Cubs always seem to have.  Rooting for the St Louis Cardinals, I was disappointed to say the least.  They had really no offense during the entire postseason, making it a boring bunch of games to watch and endure.  David Ortiz was on fire all series hitting everything that was thrown his way.  I would have walked him more times than not.  His bat was a lethal weapon to say the least. All I can say is, wait until next year.  Now I’ll be having baseball withdrawls for a few weeks, especially since the time change this weekend and the oncoming early nighttime that occurs for these next few months until the second Sunday in March rolls back around.

Tonight is Halloween and I still haven’t bought any candy.  I really don’t plan on being home but I better get some just in case my plans change.  I can’t disappoint the little kiddos when they come to the door begging for candy. So, I guess I’ll swing by the store on the way home after work.

Tomorrow morning the plumber comes to fix the toilet and the leaky kitchen faucet. It only leaks when you turn it on full blast but it sprays all over the place when you do that, which I seem to somehow do frequently.  The landlord’s regular plumbers came before and said it was all normal, which means they were too lazy to fix the problems.  She told me this was another plumber service she was sending that should fix it and make it all good.  That means I need to clean up the current pile of dishes that have accumulated over the past week or so. I so need a regular cleaning lady to come every other week to keep this place tidy for me.  I do pay pretty well!

Today is my friend Bob’s 83^rd birthday I believe.  He was born in 1929.  Can you believe that?  He is one of the nicest guys I have ever met and he is still going strong.  We were coworkers until maybe two or three years ago when the company he worked for their contract was not renewed, so he started his own business once again.  He is always busy and at 6 foot, eight inches tall, he is a hard guy to miss in a crowd.  He actually played basketball against George Steinbrenner way back when.  I call Bob, Big Mac, because of the obvious I guess.  He lives out in Redlansds near where I used to live back in the early 80s.  I do go back there during the autumn to see all the leaves change and go to the apple orchards for their bountiful harvests.  You gotta love apple pie ala-mode. A nice treat once a year or so.Maybe Snoopy and I will head out that way this Saturday early and beat the traffic.  Traffic coming back will be terrible, but it should be a nice drive.

Going to close this blog post for the day…

Snoopy says… Wag More, Bark Less…

Until next time… Be Good!

- cb

Tuesday

Tuesday, Oct 29, 2013

Todays music trivia is not so much a well known band but a band I think I first heard on Saturday Night Live many years ago, probably in the early 90s.  I believe they actually formed as a band in the mid 80s. The story behind the band is the lead singer was in the audience when this band was playing and she apparently just jumped up on stage and started singing words she made up as she went along.  This song, “What I Am”, came to be their first hit on their first album, “Shooting Rubberbands at the Stars”.  To tell you the truth, this is really the only song I recognize them by.  They only had two albums published before the lead singer left the band.  Can you name this alternative band?

Readership seems to be waning lately.  Am I bitching too much and not providing any entertainment for you all?  Sorry, but life has been biting me in the ass lately and it is hard to be entertaining.  We will try a bit harder to provide some fun and value. It is slightly better than reading the newspapers or watching the news.

A friend gave Snoopy a new harness the other night.  I tried to put it on her but it looks like it was made improperly.  It seems one of the straps on the harness is twisted and totally backwards.  I’ll take another look at it but it did not seem correct when I was checking it out last night.  Maybe I was installing it incorrectly?  Who knows?

Last night the St Louis Cardinals lost Game 5 to the Boston Red Sox 3-1 in another pitching dual.  The problem with a pitching dual is that it can be an extremely boring game for spectators to watch.  Americans like high scoring games, this is why soccer is not that popular here in the US.  That is why basketball is popular here, especially during March Madness. The Cardinals need to win two games at Boston, which will take a monumental feat and a little bit of luck.  David Ortiz is on fire and he seems to be unstoppable at the plate.  Since I have many friends who are from Boston, I get a lot of grief from these folks.  Most people know that Boston fans are quite loyal to their sports teams.  I really don’t want to listen to them boast non-stop for another year.  There was been two games this series that finished on strange plays.  One game was won on an obstruction play and one was won with a pickoff at first base. Anyways, Game 6 is tomorrow night at Fenway Park in Boston.  

This past weekend, the Formula One Championship was won by Sebastian Vettel, the young German driver for Team Red Bull, in India.  He has been dominant the past 4 seasons only being challenged by the Spaniard, Fernando Alonzo, for Team Ferrari.  Ferrari is the team I have always followed since I was a kid and this year it seems like we had no chance in this year’s championship.  Vettel and Team Red Bull seemed to have this year locked in.  Hopefully the changes to the regulations next year will make some of the factors even out for a more exciting and more competitive Formula One Championship season.  It does get a bit boring when the same guy wins all of the time. I mean, what fun is that to watch?  A more competitive season makes for a more entertaining motorsport to watch.

The temperature here in Southern California has cooled off drastically.  It is a time to remove my stand-alone air conditioner unit I have installed in the bedroom.  I have noticed the morning temperature has been a bit cooler and the need for this appliance has pretty much passed for this season.  Even though some daytime temperatures still reach a high worth using an air conditioner, I believe it is safe that I can now store this unit for the year.  

We have not been down at the beach for a couple of weeks now.  As most of you know, the beach is usually a daily visit we make a point to do.  With the baseball playoffs and other events getting in the way, we really miss the beach and that quality time in our day.  It is sort of like a daily dose of attitude therapy I need each and every day.  I believe we could all use some daily therapy or meditation to keep ourselves centered and sane.  I know I need it as much as possible. 

Halloween is almost upon us and I still need to get some treats for the little critters who might come by this year.  Last year I was attending a party and did not get to see how the turnout was being my first year in this apartment. I hope to be watching Game 7 of the World Series on Halloween night, but then again I might be disappointed in the outcome of Game 6 the night before.  I guess just in case I’ll go pick up some Twix and Peanut Butter Cups before then.

As Snoopy says, Wag More, Bark Less…

Until then… Be Good!

- cb

Monday, Oct 28, 2013

Monday…

It has been 13 years since we lost Carrie Burke in a tragic drunk driver auto accident.  It seems like it was just yesterday we were emailing back and forth late nights.  She would be almost 29 today.  Such a lovely girl and a real angel.  We all miss you and think of you often.  We are glad you are in heaven looking down upon us with that beautiful smile.  Keep a close watch on us and provide us your grace.

I heard that the musician and songwriter Lou Reed died at the age of 71.  For you that are not familiar with his music, he was the front man for the unique band, Velvet Underground, and also sang the song, “Take a Walk on the Wild Side”.  He was often misunderstood and was many years ahead of his time.  I always enjoyed his music and his differences from other musicians. Thanks Lou for all the experimentations and the nerve to go out on a limb.  God Speed, Lou Reed!

Todays musical group, is probably the ultimate American rock and roll band of the 70s and 80s.  Truly America’s band of the time, their members are all independently successful and their work can stand on its own.  Their Greatest Hits album is one of the top grossing albums of all time even though it was released several decades ago.  Members include Don, Glenn, Joe, Don, Timothy, and Randy. Can you name this hugely successful all American band 70s and 80s band?

This weekend flew by way too fast.  I kinda got used to having three day-weekends and when the two-day weekends come along, it is quite a disappointment.  Looking forward to the day I have to think if it is the weekend or not.  Those days I so look forward to.  When it doesn’t matter when the weekend is will be a nice thing.  I guess the football games will kinda keep us on schedule a bit.  Waiting for that day!

Why does the workday drag on minute after minute?  I mean, it is crazy that it drags on for so long.  Nine hour days make things even worse, hour after hour.  The day seems to drag along so slowly then after work the hours just seem to fly by too quickly.  I wish I had time to find another job that I would actually like.  Maybe even find some management personnel that do not have a direct rectal-head inversion?  I have had bosses that I would take a bullet for and then there are bosses I have had that if they were drowning, I would throw them an anchor.  I really hate some people’s lack of management skills.  Can’t the workplace be a hospitable place to spend your entire day?  I believe that is the way it is supposed to be, but not so much here these past 18 months.  Your management should be trying to lift you up rather than trying to tear you down.  I hope that they feel the wrath of bad karma when it comes around to haunt them.  May they receive what that truly deserve.

Next Sunday @ 2AM we all have the time change back to Standard time until the second Sunday in March.  I usually hate this time change because there is not much daylight after we get out of work.  This always limits what can be done after work.  This restriction affects so much during this time of the year that it becomes depressing at times.  When I played golf regularly, the time change meant there is very limited time for golf after work.  That really became a sad time for me.  I wish I could play some more golf.  Hopefully maybe when the time change happens again.

I bought myself a Whizzer bicycle about a year and a half ago.  A Whizzer is a beach cruiser bicycle with a small two-stroke motor on it.  It is sort of like a moped before mopeds were invented and they were very popular in the 50s and early 60s.  Anyway, I had one built a while back and it has just been sitting in the garage gathering dust.  I think I’m going to break it out and start riding it more.  It can save a lot of gas and it is convenient to park.  You basically peddle the bicycle and when it gets up to speed you drop the clutch and the motor starts up.  It is one speed and only had coaster brakes with the pedals. I have a headlight and tail light installed and I even have a BMX bicycle helmet just in case an incident occurs.  It does not require any insurance and it can be ridden just like a bike.  I really never even rode it enough when I initially got it to break in the motor.  So, I think Ill begin riding it a bit more, maybe even to work since it is only maybe 2-3 miles each way.  I guess we will see what happens and how much gasoline I can save. It is pretty economical to use.  Cheap transportation! 

Snoopy received a new harness collar from a friend at the tavern on Saturday night.  It is blue (her color) and is supposed to not strangle her as much and won’t wear on her fur as much.  I guess I’ll try to put it on her this week sometime to see if she likes it or not.  Thanks again, Auntie Margret!  That was very thoughtful of you!  Snoopy gives you two wags and a couple of kisses!  Good luck on your St Louis Cardinals!  J

Well, the St Louis Cardinals lost last night to the Boston Red Sox in Game 4 to tie the series 2-2 in the World Series.  Tonight Game 5 will be played to break the series tie and then the return to Boston will follow for Game 6.  It has been a good exciting series which is what we all hope for.  The more baseball, the better for me.  I would enjoy a Game 7 as long as St Louis can pull out the final win. Game 5 begins tonight in St Louis.  Go Cardinals!

As Snoopy says… Wag More, Bark Less!

Until next time… Be Good!

-cb

Friday...

Friday…

It’s been a stressful week, to say the least.  Between attorney appointments, doctor visits, union interfaces and management idiots, this week has taken a toll on me.  I can hardly wait until I can write off 2013 and get on to another year that has some potential for a happy life.  I could use a streak of good luck and some good karma. Isn’t it about my time for some good things to happen?  Did I burn up all my good luck and positive vibes in my earlier years that I was not aware of?  This negative trend needs to turn around pretty soon.  I don’t know how much more of this I can take really.

Today’s music trivia artist I ran across in the 1990s and liked them right away. They are unique in that they are a cross between rock and roll and reggae, and with a little Elvis impersonator thrown in for a twist. They basically cover Led Zeppelin songs with some Elvis lyrics blended in and a nice reggae flavor.  Can you place a name with this unique band?

Last night the World Series continued with the St Louis Cardinals defeating the Boston Red Sox 4-2 in Game 2 at Fenway.  Two errors committed on one play by the Sox’s catcher and the pitcher gave the lead to the Cardinals late in the game to lift them to a win to tie the series 1-1.  The 7 game series now moves to St Louis for Game 3 tomorrow night. 

My friend invited me to a party tonight and a nightclub, but I doubt I’m not sure if I’ll attend since I have been battling a headache all week.  It is a Hat party, where everyone is required to wear a hat and they have prizes for best hat, biggest hat, etc.  I may change my mind and go because this is probably the only Halloween party I’ll probably attend.  The fact that it is a Friday night and the party is up in the San Fernando Valley, traffic will be horrible.  I guess I will decide later on today or not to fight the traffic after work.  Friday nights and the dreaded 405 Freeway has to be the worst combination ever! 

Does anybody out there get stress headaches that lasts for days on end?  It seems like I have had this headache since Sunday evening.  I have tried several remedies to lose it but none have seemed to work.  My neck and back have been tight all this week and I am tired of having this headache.  If I am opting out of attending a fun party, you know it must be pretty bad.  I just want to lie down on the couch and rest and hope it goes away.  The meds I have taken makes it go away temporarily but once the meds wear off the headache seems to come right back.  I have not been out at night that much all week due to this headache.  A few years ago I had a constant headache for 7 weeks straight, which was terrible.  I am hoping it goes away soon.

Linus has been running a little rough lately and I’m not sure what is happening.  I have not used any fuel injection cleaner lately to keep my injectors clean and my engine running smoothly.  It is sort of like high cholesterol medication… it keeps your pipes clear.   I usually stock up on my supplies and have plenty in reserve, but my supplies must be stored in the garage someplace.  I usually stock up at the 99 cent store but the last few times I have been there they have had none.  I noticed that there is a new 99 cent store that has just opened in El Segundo recently and I need to go by there and check it out. I usually add octane boost also to help him perform better since he is so old.  Sort of like Viagra for old vehicles.  Heh heh… Linus needs his “meds” which helps keep his insides clean, healthy and running smooth.  I should be so lucky…

I love the 99 cent store.  You can go in and find all kinds of treasures for under a dollar.  We found all kinds of plastic dinnerware for Linus, plates, bowls, and cups for camping.  I always go to the 99 cent store first so I can save me some money on those little things that we all need.  We bought a bunch of cacti and succulents there and plant pots to put them in.  A cheap way to outfit yourself with some potted plants.  I still have many cactus plants behind our apartment.  Snoopy tries to avoid them at all costs.  She is definitely not fond of prickly pricks, but who is?  Heh heh…

As Snoopy says, Wag More, Bark Less…

Until Next Time… Be Good!

- cb

Thursday

Thursday…

Sorry for the no blog post yesterday.  I just was not up to it and I had things going on that kept me from it.  I doubt that anyone really missed it but still the same I apologize.

Tim B correctly identified “Deep Purple” as the band from Tuesday’s post. In fact, I believe he was one of the fastest correct responses we have ever received. Congrats Tim!

Today’s band was one of my favorite bands back in the 1970s and HS.  They were originally a biker band named, “Pud”, but later changed their name to it’s current controversial title.  Pat Simmons, one of their guitar players, has been a staple with the band from the beginning. Their lead singer, Tom Johnston, after so many years left the band and was replaced by Michael McDonald and the band changed to a more jazz -type easy listening band.  After so many years passed, Tom rejoined the band and is currently fronting the band touring and playing concerts. Their signature two-drummer line up has been there since day one and the ever-changing support members is just a reality of a large amount of musicians (eight) in one band.  Can you name this musical band?

Well, last night the Boston Red Sox defeated the St Louis Cardinals handedly 8-1 in Game 1 of the World Series held in Boston’s Fenway Park.  Jon Lester pitched a remarkable game for the Sox and dominated the game pitching for 7 2/3 innings.

Watching from my couch at home, the game went not as I wished.  I really hope the series goes to the full 7 games with the Cardinals coming out on top at the end.  More baseball is always good for me, especially at the end of the season. Game 2 tonight at Fenway once again… You know I’ll be watching…

I finally figured out how to shoot a video on my new iphone5s, but now I need to figure out how to attach them and photos to our blog posts.  Snoopy does not walk anywhere, she runs.  There is only one time she walks and that is when she is turning in for the evening and heading to the bedroom. I call it her long, slow walk. She comes to me and gives me kisses, then she turns and does her long slow walk to bed.  I will sometime fall asleep watching TV on the couch (which I call the coma couch or cc for short) and she will wake me up telling me it is time for bed.  Sometimes she just walks off whenever she is ready to crash for the evening. I kinda got used to her waking me up, but it does not happen that much anymore. I’ll wake up and look at the clock and see some time has passed.  I’ll go into the bedroom and there laying in her bed is Snoopy.  She will look at me like WTF are you doing? And I’m like, “why did you leave me out there all alone?”  She just wags her little tail. I finally got her long, slow walk on video and I want to post it, but I am not sure how.  I’ll have to study up or ask someone much more knowledgeable than me how to accomplish that.  I’ll be working on it I guess.

Gotta go, lots to do still…

Until next time… Be good!

- cb