Thanks on 4 July 2009

On this day that we celebrate the birth of our nation; though the declaration to separate was actually on 2 July, and the actual fighting began in April of 1775; I thought it might be nice to mention a few things for which I am thankful.

I have a wonderful woman in my life that gives so many gifts. Gardening to look at and live in, food that melts in my mouth and of an incredible variety, conversation to exercise my mind and so many other things that slip this addled brain.

Children that despite my foibles still serve others. They may not choose to serve the same method as I, but they do serve others--Brad in coaching, Sam his country, Wilson and Annie are still searching, but helping family and friends is only the beginning.

A God that is patient.

A job, especially one that challenges me daily.

Have I mentioned the garden and house?

Bicycles and the Frenchman that is credited with devising them.

For family.

And to speak for Maggie: Thankful for older cousins to sit on.

Thankful for David L. Zack--RIP. I heard of this man for years from my father. I then worked, or better learned, from him for 2.5 years at Tulare Irrigation District. What my father started, Dave Zack continued. Thank you.

The Day After Ramblings

This is just going to be a list of assorted rambling thoughts; most won't mean much outside of they are rattling around in my dome and need to get out.

Dome--Isn't that such a cool term for your brain, your noggin, your gray matter, your pate, your. . . you get the idea. I like words. But in usual fashion when an adult uses an adolescent term, the term is no longer in vogue. It works wonderfully in class sometimes when I use a student term and they stop using it. JK, LOL is a recent example of this.

The pool is up! It is a task I like when it is done, and really isn't that hard to do, but a job that isn't looked forward to start. It usually means I have a slow work day because I have to fiddle with the pool bottom as the water fills to get all of the wrinkles out. It is especially nice on a hot day as the first dip or flop into the water is tingly cold like a mountain lake late in August.

Speaking of which, the mountains have been unseen even more than normal because of the numerous fires and smoke around California. Seems to be a long summer and fall ahead.

We didn't purchase any fireworks nor set any off this year. Just kind of fell into it. B is in Shasta with family, A was with her adopted older "sister" E watching the Lions Club fireworks display, W was with friends doing likewise, and S stayed home. M, S and I drove (Guess I broke my own promise not to drive) out near the local hill and watched the Lions fireworks for a bit. M took some pictures with the slice of moon next to the explosions. Pretty neat. Drove downtown on the way home and it was deserted. Only one couple outside the Stag. Nice to think people are with family during the 4th.

The studio ceiling is painted and we are moving forward. Sure is nice to see tangible results.

I have an idea for a bike based on a 20" bmx bike. It will have extended steerer tube on the fork for raised handlebars and longer seatpost so an adult can ride it comfortably. There will be a BIG basket on the front for cargo. Sort of a modern newspaper bike. The smaller wheels will carry the weight better. Not totally my idea, but still something to keep alive my weird bike person label.

The yard is better than usual. Not all of the plants are growing as well, especially the tomatoes. But with the addition of the new backyard plot, the almost finished concrete, and M's garden wisdom; I just marvel everytime I walk into our yard. It is a refuge from the world.

Along that line, I am working a four day work week in summer school. We have been doing this for about four or five years. I thought I wouldn't like it, but have really come to enjoy the three days home. I get to enjoy my family more, enjoy the aforementioned yard and finish some projects around the house. The problem with the four day work week, after three days at home,I don't want to go back to work. I have a start-up issue.

I do enjoy being around the house. Years ago I read the Intregal Urban House and over the years we have tried to implement similar ideas into our house and living. One son calls it Urban Hobodry and me the Urban Hobo. I found this site recently and hope to explore it for new ideas.

It is very pleasing to see the three boys, and A sometimes, making the transition from Guitar Hero to real guitar playing. B bought an electric and at times they take turns playing two at a time on the guitars. Also kindled an interest in classic rock.

Nice blog about Independence, Interdependence and Freedom. As is often the case, some use them interchangeably when they aren't.

Did you know the Declaration of Independence was signed on the 2nd of July? Fighting was already going on between the Colonies and Britain. The next year, 1777, someone decided that the D of I should be celebrated, but it was the 3rd. So they said how about tomorrow the 4th and the holiday was on. Many myths surrounding this piece of parchment. I think everyone should read it at least once seriously, not when you're trying to go to sleep.

Did you know that a shovel urged me to go to college? Digging weeds out of a ditch in 100+ degrees has a way of talking to a teenager in a way that no parent or teacher can compete.

Well, I better hit the road before the road hits back. And remember to keep the rubber side down.