What Is Really Going On

Time Management - Personal or Business

2008-05-05T04:56:00.003-07:00

Time Management is something I have struggled with all my life. I am great at multi-tasking. However when you get to many things on your plate all that food can be a bit overwhelming. Then if somethings are not taken off that plate there is a great risk of a nervous break down or a heart attack leading to death.

There are so many neat things to do out on the internet, at home, and at work. But there comes a time to say "NO!" to something in as a means to keep the better ones going strong.

This past weekend I got hit with overload. So after much prayer and consideration. I have had to make some decision's as to what is important and what is needful.

Vista366.com will be a Monday thru Friday blog
I am going to keep the Tuesday Vista Is Here To Stay podcast.
Only one major consulting/training project at a time.
Other blogs and writing will be done as I get inspired and/or have time.

Some Time It Takes Encouragement

2008-04-24T02:33:00.003-07:00

There are times when we need encouragement from other people. Like the old song, "No man is an island". If we ever feel that we are an island to our selves it get very, very, hard.

I am the type of person who likes bury myself in work. When I go through a hard place. As time gets harder, I start to pull myself from those around me, especially those who love and care about me.

There are days I find comfort from my morning reading of scriptures. This morning was Proverbs 24:12. I quote, "If you say, 'Bue we knew nothing about this,' does not he who weight the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay each person according to what he has done?"

A lot of what I do, I really do not what I am doing. I am just acting, speaking or writing in the best the direction that seems right for that moment in time.

I Am Back

2008-03-09T05:54:00.004-07:00

I am back posting on this blog. I won't say that this is going to be a daily post. In fact, I am looking for guest posts. People who have something to say about what is REALLY Going On. I don't want ABC, CBS, CNN, or NBC feeds, I want your view of what is happening in the world, today.

In a couple of weeks, I would like to start a weekly call in podcast. It will be along the same subject as this blog.

You can always email me at efc@efcussins.com

Farewell

2008-02-08T07:24:00.000-07:00

Farewell My sin, my in ability to continue. So this is my last blog. Farewell.

The Warm Beach

2008-01-28T01:42:00.000-07:00

The warmth of the morning sun penetrates the Banana Slug t-shirt that is on my back. The smell of the salt ocean air in my noise. Watching the morning sun push back the fog that came in during the early morning hours. The sound of ocean waves rolling up on sand in font of my feet. This is a taste of heaven.

Early morning on the beach is such a blissful time. The crowds have not arrived. I am standing facing the mighty ocean. Talking to God as if He is that big mass of blue water. And little old me standing in front of Him, getting my direction for the daily activities.

The warm sun at my back, the cool ocean air on my face, and the sounds of waves rolling on shore creates such a calming affect. There has been many a time I have wished this moment would never end.

I look to my right there is a man in his 70's with a metal detector. He is scanning the beach for money or precious items that was left behind from the previous day's beach goes. Some people have told me that he makes over $200 a day, just by waving his metal detector over the morning sand.

Off in the distance a jogger is running in my direction. I see her about every morning. Dressed in nothing but a sports bra and running shorts. She must be getting her energy for the day's battles by running next the mighty ocean.

Well my time of peace and tranquility is over. Now I must go back to the real cold world and its' reality.

Walking The Lonely Road 2

2008-01-27T06:47:00.000-07:00

Arms and body shaking so bad that I can barely walk in a straight line. Oh God, the cold is getting to my body. I do not know when the cold and the wind will blow over my body. Then finally, my strength will be gone and gravity will pull me to the ground.

What got me into this mess?
Why am I out here all alone?
Why do I have to bare the bitter January cold of the high desert?

The answer is simple, two sins; selfishness, and lust. The two things that I have let rule my fifty plus years.

Instead of bitting the bullet and finishing college, I quite. Not just once, but many times. Each time was to fulfill selfish gratification. Now I walk this lonely road with the satisfaction of having a college degree.

Just when I was starting to mend the relationship with my two oldest children, I made things worst. Now they won't talk to me. Whenever I can not think about them for long because the cold pain of evil, sinful self hurts to much.

The list goes on and on. I need intervention. I have had intervention in the past.

Teen Challenge. After a year in the program, I went to school and stayed there for another three years. Then I thought I was getting into a good relationship, but it turned lustful and it went downhill from there. I didn't have the intestinal fortitude to get out of it before it was to late.

Another step, I can't move. My body is shaking so bad. Just lifting my right leg up and putting my foot down in front of the left one is taking so my effort. I can't stop shaking!

Walking The Lonely Road

2008-01-26T05:15:00.000-07:00

It is winter in the high desert of northern Nevada. I am maybe 50 miles north of Winnemucca on highway 95. There is not a car insight no matter which way I look.

The cold January wind has dropped the air temperature at least 20 degrees. My fingers were numb hours ago. My ears sting in pain even though my head is wrapped with an old flannel shirt. I dare not look at the ends of my fingers. I lost feeling of them some time back.

There is no place to go except to just walk north. Step, step, one foot in front of another. Left, right, left, right. each step is a deliberate effort. I dare not stop. If I did the cold and loneliness would over take me.

I looked up at the mountains, they are so far way. I will never reach them before night fall. I don't know where I will be at night fall. But I can not give up.

I fix my eyes on the mountains above where the road ends ahead of me. That is not where I am going. Where I am going is many many miles on the other side of those mountains.

Burrrr, the cold is penetrating the layers of shirts, sweaters, and jacket that I have wrapped around me. I never thought I could feel the cold like I am right now.

I can't think about the cold or the loneliness. I must keep walking no matter what I am feeling. I must reach those mountains before it gets dark. If I don't I do not know what I will do.

The Hole

2008-01-21T02:28:00.000-07:00

It seems no matter how far up the hole I climb, there is something comes along to that destroys all the progress I make. Then gravity takes over and I fall back down. Why is that?

Finally, I find a couple hand holds on sides of the wall. I looks like a way to climb out of this hole. I reach out with my right hand and grab this rock. Then I stick my left toe into a notch about two feet off the bottom of the hole. My biceps tighten as I pull myself up. I grasp a two inch root with my left hand.

I reached with my right hand for a loose clump of dirt. I know that clump of dirt was not going to hold my weight. Yet I reached out and try to pull myself up. Sure enough when I pulled on it, it broke apart. Right back to the bottom of the hole I landed on my back, again!

You would think after trying a number of times I would give up. I can not give up. I must get out of this hole. To many people are depending upon me. I did not indent to get in this whole. I just make a group of wrong decisions. Oh God I wish I could change those decisions.

Here it is almost 3 am in the morning. I have been awake since midnight. I should of have been asleep. I usually wake up in another half hour.

Well, I better start checking out the walls of this hole, again. Maybe I can find another possible path out of this hole.

They Remember

2008-01-20T03:34:00.000-07:00

We were driving in the car when our daughter started to talk about an incident that happen when she was not more than 3 years old. I tried not to react. But having a fathers heart I felt sad that she wanted to make things all better.

My wife and I had gotten sick from eating some bad food. She was vomiting along with stomach cramps. I had diarrhea in addition to the vomiting and stomach cramps. We could verily manage to get to a near by doc-in-the-box. Our daugther must not of have ate the same bad food item as my wife and I did, because she was not sick.

Well, back to riding in the car. Our daughter, now seven years old, said how she wanted to take care of us. She did not know what to do. She was afraid that we were going to die.

I had forgot about the incident. I did not think she would remember. From what she said that day in the car she has a clear recollection of what had happen.

I am taken by her concern for us. I do not want her to have those kind of memories. I want her to have much better memories as she grows up. Nevertheless, I am amazed that she being so young could remember that incident.

Becoming A Peace Maker

2008-01-19T03:06:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday on Law and Order, the character played by Chris North made the comment that he wanted to try the role of peace maker for a while. He like his new partner. Chris wanted to act as a buffer until her abrasive attitude smoothed out.

I have found myself, more verbal. Not in an aggressive sort of way. The verbal expression is leaning toward a more tell it like it is , yet peace maker.

My perspective may be all wrong. I may just be to passive. All I know is that if the words I say is encouraging, and have a positive spin. Then the people I am around will be more enrich after and encounter with me.

Chris North's character, from Law and Order, has evolved over the years. At one point he was very reactionary. He punched out some high ranking New York City official. Then he got sent to a boring out of the police station. From there he came back into the spot light with more humbler and mature attitude about life and work.

Is it a sign of growing old, maybe? His character may just of have found the best way to get his need met.

Forgiveness and Hate

2008-01-18T05:10:00.000-07:00

I am starting to get reactions from people and business to our filing the bankruptcy. The different reactions have been from one extreme or the other. Some where expected. While other were quite a shock. I guess it really shows the business or individuals real colors.

One business associate has been reacting in anger. Threats through someone they were coaching. It upset my wife, when she got the phone call. My first response was anger for the threat. Later I was sadden because I really wish I could of have paid everything and been done with the matter.

Then the one individual who I expected to scream and threaten, did not do that. They offered a solutions that was more than generous. $15 a month for a service that we need anyway. It was more than what I would of have paid for the service, but we can live with the offer.

Of course there are the big financial corporations that are waiting in the wings. They are currently having to deal with bigger fish than me. Foreclosures or repositions of 10 to 100 thousands of dollars items. They are more than likely waiting for me to pick up my payments. That I want to do this month.

I can't change how people react to me, but I can definitely control my response to them. No matter how bad I feel. No matter what I wish I could do. I am stuck making the course. My prayer is to right all the wrong that I have done.

There Is A God!

2008-01-17T05:08:00.000-07:00

Just when the darkness is blackest. Just when there is no hope springs out the least expected source. A smile, a pleasant voice, or just someone listening can make a world of difference. When expecting a negative reaction, but a friendly smile will burst a ray of sunshine through the clouds.

The actual circumstances are the same. The bankruptcy process is happening. People are still angry with me. However, I am not being overcome by the oppressive darkness that over shadows me on a hourly basis.

In the late afternoon, I looked down at my hand. There is no shaking. Normally toward the end of the day my hands would start a mild shaking. I always thought it was just a nervous condition that I had to live with all my life. Doctors would notice it, by offer no cure. Now it was gone! Could my body be getting healed? That would be so great.

This morning, I am seeing more of God's hand in my life.

There Is Light - Maybe?

2008-01-16T03:53:00.000-07:00

Even through my day is good. Things get accomplished. But there comes a night. Not telling what the night and its' darkness holds in store.
During the day, miracles happen. The day is when good gets to spread. The night replaces the daylight, that is when light disappears. Then anything can happen.

The day was good. The evaluation from Debt Reduction Services was completed with few hick-ups. Self Help Legal got the paperwork to court. Electronically, I might add. We drove out of Self Help Legal's parking lot feeling much lighter.

The rest of the day was spent reading, discussing what we could do to improve the amount of money we bring into our home. I even was able to spend some time helping our daughter with her homework.

Phone conversations were positive. The whole rest of the was on a positive note. That was until I woke up at 2:32 am. I was alone in bed. An overwhelming, oppressive feeling just consumed my entire body. It was a if a holocaust was about to happen. What made it worst was that I did not know where it was going to come from.

An hour later I got out of bed to started the morning coffee. Turned on the computer. Opened my word processor and started to write. I am not going to let the darkness ruin the good from yesterday.

Taking Over Physically

2008-01-15T03:35:00.000-07:00

Just when things start to look good, another blow comes. It was not bad enough getting cussed out by my wife, but when I got home she told me she lost her job. She told the current temp agency that she was going with another agency in two weeks. They fired her on the spot. There goes money we can't do without.

I fixed a friends, girlfriend computer. They gave me a check made out to the business. Well, the business (TEN Solutions) is closed. I can not cash the check. Now when I call to get another check they don't answer their phone. Reaping what I sow.

I have buried my self in such a whole that it is starting to affect me physically and mentally. At work speaking and thinking through difficult situation is becoming hard. I feel my body is cramping. At times I have trouble walking. Sitting up straight is almost impossible.

No money for a haircut. I am overdue. We need $85 to get an evaluation from Debt Reduction Services. The money is not their. No way to get the money. Well, if my wife gets paid Thursday. I am hoping if they will let us go through the interview. They we can pay them Thursday. Get the certificate, then finally file.

My back is tight. Portions of my face are numb. The stress is slowly becoming overwhelming. I don't know how much long my body can hold out.

Regardless of all my sin. Regardless of where we are at. I know if I die today, God will take me. This life is but a feating moment in the compared to all eternity. Regardless if my current condition, I have hope in only one source.

There Is Light - NOT

2008-01-14T04:25:00.000-07:00

Where is light at the end of the tunnel?
What is a good feeling?

Just when you think things are going to get better, along comes a manhole cover and hit you in the face. Why me oh God?

Money for the bankruptcy is paid. Wife and I are good regular jobs. The opportunity to do some podcast and make more than just wages was presented. The house was starting to get cleaner. Our daughter got some new clothes. Then came the manhole cover.

I am presented with facts from my wife that I do not remember. I am not allow to discuss it. I am not allowed to speak. I can not explain. I can not offer defense. All I can do is pray for to be left on the street, alone. I wish my wife and daughter would just leave me and headed for Texas to live with her family.

Sometimes I think it would better. I wish I could undo all the mistakes and wrong that I have done.

Sunday Morning

2008-01-13T03:58:00.000-07:00

The Christmas tree was finally taken down. The living room vacuumed. Dishes were washed. A good portion of the house was clean. Then we fell asleep. I can not believe how much energy we had. I have done some much house work, in I don't know when.

Today is Sunday. A day of rest. This is a day to break from the pressures of life and enjoy what God has made.

Years ago, Johnny Cash sung a song called Sunday Morning Coming Down. It was about a drunk sobering up on Sunday Morning. The underlying theme was about how special Sunday morning is. Even a drunk who is the most removed human being away from God still knows how special Sunday morning is.

I want to take the song Johnny Cash to the next level. I believe all of earth is different of Sunday morning. It is a day of Church and rest from the rest of the week.

This is one Sunday that I am planning to really enjoy.

Taking Care Of Business

2008-01-12T04:40:00.000-07:00

I took the last of the money to the para legal who is helping us with the bankruptcy. There was just enough in my wallet to pay him. Now I got to get up money for electricity, space rent, and other bills.

A couple of entrepreneurs have approached me. They want me to help them with starting an internet radio programs. If I do it right I could make enough money to some financial security in our lives.

My daughter and I are going to clean this house. It is long over due. This is the first time that any of us have had enough energy to do anything past the survival mode.

Friday was good. We were able to get our daughter a new outfit for school and a nice pink Bible. Wife and I felt good that we could get her something that would help her feel good. I know it has been hard on our daughter. She has been a real inspiration through all the darkness. Who says you can not learn from your children.

Angry With Me

2008-01-11T07:57:00.000-07:00

They are all angry with me. Some are even threating to file criminal action. My wife blames me for everything. I can't say a word without being in the wrong.

I know I caused it all. I have no excuses. If it was not for my wife and daughter, I would just go to jail, pay off my debt in debtors prison. If it was 150 years ago.

God oh God what can I do? I am praying, I am looking for everyway possible to pay people I owe. But the money just dried up. Work stopped coming in. I have electric, gas and food bills to pay.

I felt guilty stopping by McDonald's to get a sandwich before work. I needed some energy to make it through my shift. We need that money along with money from driving 5 miles less to pay the electric bill. We had to buy clothes for my daughter $15. I should of have put that money toward paying another creditor.

I don't want to file bankruptcy. I want to pay my creditor. But I just don't have the money. They want to file criminal charges. Well, if they do and I go to jail, other people I owe will not get paid.

Oh God, I just want this to end.

I Hate Phone Calls

2008-01-10T06:13:00.000-07:00

Calling creditors to letting them know that I am filing bankruptcy is not an easy thing to do. Each phone call is facing my failure. I am saying that I am not a proper husband, father, or man. Regardless as much as I don't like it I still have to do it.

When it comes time to email or call a creditor, I become withdrawn. The world around me becomes very irritating. I have to muster up every ounce of energy I have within my bones to dial that number. Then telling the person on the other end, "I am a failure".

As a general rule most of the people/businesses that I owe just take down information like attorney, his phone number, and case number. The person on the other end of the phone falls back from being aggressive to a more passive state. Some even have offered words of consolation and understanding.

There were some who offer a word of encouragement which makes the whole process a little easier to bare. I still wish I did not have to drag my family through this whole process. I wish I could have made more money, been healthier.

In the Bible there is a passage that talks about Jesus. It reads, "But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant ... humbled himself ... ." (Philippians 2:6-8) This whole time and process is very, very, very humbling.

Light - Moves Darkness Back

2008-01-08T04:13:00.000-07:00

Light comes out from behind the clouds at the most unexpected times. When it does there is a nice feeling that everything will be alright. Then on the physical plane one could be driving at night on slippery roads.

Darkness tries to get to give up and do some crazy self destructive action. Light says keep going, you are on the right path. I will give you a clear direction.

I was driving down the road as temperatures started to fall below the point of freezing. The city lights reflexed off the black ice. A clam started to over come my whole body. Now I knew everything would be alright.

I stopped at a closing CompUSA. There I spent thirty minutes wondering through their supposed close out prices. Then I went on to another big box electronics store where I bought a microphone for a project.

When I got home I was greeted with a smile from my wife and daughter. I could tell the light had reached their lives, also. The rest of the evening was good. We talked about the day. Then we had some of the best tamale pie I had ever eaten. Then I made a few phone calls before going to bed.

Darkness - Where is the light?

2008-01-07T07:25:00.000-07:00

There is nothing but darkness. Where is the light??? The depression, oppression is overwhelming. It is paralyzing. It is not just me, but the whole family.

My wife and I have been in survival mode for so long that the house shows it. The house is dirty. We do the dishes, and some cleaning. Anything more is done when we are surrounded by work, money coming in, and good news.

I try to clean, but I can't do it all. I have to look at a dirty bathroom sink several times, before I clean it. My wife has good days, then she does the dishes and clean the counters. It is so very hard to examples to our daughter when we can verily do things.

In church, yesterday, morning the preacher talked about love, hope, and light. He talked about expecting a surprise miracle this week. I have been praying, not for a miracle, but just help, work, to get out of this hole. Nothing has happen, we are still going down, down, and down some more.

Where it the light at the end of the tunnel? We are nothing more in a deep hole headed down. I am praying for a place to rent, and the money to pay for it. Right now we have neither.

I wish I could give my body, and life to keep from my wife and daughter for going down the road we are headed.

Bitter Sweat

2008-01-06T07:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I wrote about being up and then down. That was pretty much the theme of the whole day. It started feeling the pain of losing everything. As the day progressed the day got better. Then it finished off with having to deal with the mortgage company.

I try to stay positive for my wife and daughters sake. I know it must be hard on them, even if they don't say much about what we are going through. Then there are times all I can do is go to bed and sleep, just to cope.

When I turned on the television, a lady preacher talked about how we must turn loose of everything, before God can rebuild our lives. That seems to be happening to us. We are going to end up in a run down single wide trailer before things get better. Have we been that sinful? Are we so mule headed that we need to be broken before God can really use us? It must be!

We we are going to get the most counsel before we doing anything. We are going to pray. Look for the best possible alternative. I just want to pay the bills and put some money into saving.

Up Down Up Down

2008-01-05T01:52:00.000-07:00

Up, Down, Up, Down, oh God I feel like a yo yo! When will it ever level out!

One minute everything seems like things are on the upward climb the next, I feel like I am laying face down of the payment.

My wife went to the ATM to take out some money to pay bill. The ATM had a glitch. It took the money out of the account, but did not dispense the money. Three hours later she was told it would be 10 days before the money could be put back in the account.

A friend showed up with some side work to me. Hopefully, he shows up tomorrow to pay me.

When I left for work, the gas gauge was on the left side of empty. I was sweating bullets all the way to the gas station. The fear of running out of gas consumed me. I did make it without running out of gas.

Work did not have that many sales, more people were coming in and complaining about the little things. However, in their eyes these were big issues.

Saturday should be better. I if nothing else it is a busy with errands and talking to different people. Bottom-line, I don't really care. I just want it to end on a upward note.

Out Of The Mouth Of Children

2008-01-04T05:42:00.000-07:00

I woke my daughter up. The first things that came out of her seven year old mouth was. "Mommy and I talked, yesterday. We are going to make this day better."

How can you have a bad day when a child tells you that at the start of the day. Things have been so dark, it has been hard to stay positive. When a child test tells you that the difficulties of life are going to get better, I would like to believe them.

The day did get better. It was the best day at work since I start there. I tripled sales of all the others. Our daughter fits in at her day care. I was offered a deal to advertise on a internet radio program. My wife got paid. Dinner was great; homemade chili.

Today, I have to meet with a paralegal, and make some difficult phone calls. Today is going to be another good day. Why? Because I believe what my daughter said. I am going to take that one good day and make into two good days.

Survival Mode II

2008-01-03T04:07:00.000-07:00

Survival mode is a strange form of living. Some days I am beyond it. Then there is other days my mind and body shuts down to do the very essentials.

Yesterday, was one of the survival mode days. I had went into work 2 hours late, because I did not realize that my work schedule had changed. My speech was forced through out work. When it came time to leave, I just walked home. I didn't wait for my wife to come and get me.

After getting home, I found out that my wife was not able to pay for child care for Thursday and Friday. This meant that one of us would have to stay home from work. More than likely it meant whoever stayed home would get fired from their job. At that point I withdrew inward.

A fear of ultimate failure start to overwhelm me. I start to imagine police coming to our door and dragging us out of the house. Then leaving us stranded there in the cold with just the clothes on our backs.

All I could do was go to bed, curl up in a ball. A ringing in my ears got louder. I withdrew even more. I could hear the crying of my daughter because she was not able to go to day care.

This morning is a little better. We have the money for day care. I just got to get it paid. I pray that they well allow her to go before I go to work.

2008 Year of Hope

2008-01-02T01:59:00.001-07:00

2008 is our year of hope. There is a lot of promise. It is just a matter of taking what we have that is good, and leaving behind what we know that does not work.

I am reminded of people like Thomas Edison, and the vacuum cleaner inventor. All the things they tried that did not work. All it meant to them was one step closer to finding out what does work. We are getting one step closer to what does work.

The economy has a grim look. We are not out of the woods. We may still lose the house. More things could still go wrong. We could still find some more things that do not work. That is alright. We are here to stay. We are going to find what does work and be successful at life and business.

We are intelligent and hard workers. By God's grace I am not going to let a few failure hold us down.

New Year's Eve Was Quite

2008-01-01T04:56:00.000-07:00

We spent New Year's Eve home watching Men In Black 2. Our daughter was on the computer singing to High School Musical 2.

I know that 2008 is going to be full of changes for us. They have already started. I am not sure where we are going from here. All I know is that we got to move forward.

I am going to spend most of today in front of this computer working on those long bankruptcy forms, and write a couple of articles for a friend's blog.

Two good things happen in 2007. We found a great church home. Then I got off prescription drugs. I didn't realize it. I was addicted to prescription drug. I had to take three others to offset the side affects of the first one. Now I am thinking clearer and calmer.

Well, whatever comes our way in 2008, we are ready for it. In this year we may lose our house, but that is alright. we have God and each other.

Survival Mode vs Success

2007-12-31T01:15:00.000-07:00

Survival mode is a tough way to live. I have been living in that mode for most of 2007. It prevents me for doing little more surviving, because there is no energy to do anything else.

I look around the house. It could be a lot cleaner. I should of have been caught up on paper work. I need to donate some computer monitors, and printers. The car needs some attention. There are some phone calls I need to make.

There were a couple times this years I collapsed at the front door. I had no more energy from all the physical and emotional pressure. I was working as a day labor, on a construction site. Then walking five miles home. Then I collapsed. I ended up crawling inside the house and falling asleep.

Other times my wife and I could do nothing more than watch television. The depression was so great. No money coming in to pay bills. Bills piling upon other bills. There was no end in sight.

My prayer for to 2008 is to get out of survival mode. We don't smoke, drink or do drugs. There is not reason not to be successful. We want to help other people, but we cannot if we poor and just a breath from living on the streets.

I Am Guilty

2007-12-30T05:33:00.000-07:00

I am guilty. No if ands or but about it. A series of wrong decisions got us in the position we are in today. Those decisions did not just happen in 2007. They go back over many years. Some were made when I was a teenager.

My two oldest children are grown. I haven't seen them for years. Even through they both live within 50 miles of me. They just don't want to have anything to do with me. I created that. When they were babies, I left them and their mother. When I came to Idaho, I was hoping to fix it. That didn't happen.

My brother and I have not talked for years. The last time I talked to him was over the telephone. He wanted me to leave my current wife and child and go help my oldest daughter. At that time my oldest daughter acted like she was tolerating me. She did not want to even acknowledge that I was her biological father.

I have not fought to bring the whole family together, including my wife and daughter. My wife's family is in Texas. She has not seen them for over 11 years. My youngest daughter has not seen her grand parents. I have not seen my family members for over 5 years. Since I am the oldest, I should be reaching out and helping them.

That last statement is some pie in the sky idea. I can't even help my wife and daughter. I can't even support them. We are filing for bankruptcy. I don't even know where we are going to get the money to do that.

Beat Up or Go Forward

2007-12-29T02:59:00.000-07:00

I could be so easy to get depressed. I could be so easy to become incapacitated with negative emotions. But I choose not to let myself be that way.

This is a very dark time in my life. I have to much counting on me to succeed. I can not give up. I will not give up. I must and will go forward.

Last night when I got home from work, about 7:15 p.m. I found myself grumpy getting ready to snap at my wife and daughter. Once I saw what I was about to say, I went into the bedroom. Then changed my clothes, and went to bed.

I woke up 5 hours later. There was my beautiful wife sitting up in bed. She could not sleep because of all the dark things going on in our lives. We talked for sometime about the feeling we were going through. She was blaming herself. I was blaming myself. Finally, we agreed it was better just to take a hard look at what went wrong in 2007 and move forward.

We agreed that there would be a few things we are definitely going to do from this day forward. I have listed them below.

Turn loose of the network marketing business.
Expand, research and turn the writing into and income side business.
Have our day jobs 40 hour plus per week main income.
Seek out people that successful for advice.
Pray for wisdom from God to make the right decisions.

Bankruptcy?

2007-12-28T03:37:00.000-07:00

Bankruptcy is one option. This is one option I did not want to consider. Guilt, shame and depression was what was I was feeling as got up the courage to make some phone calls. I had to call over five places. We could afford a lawyer. I had to find another alternative. Finally I found help through a place called Self Help Legal.

From the time I called to the time I walked into their office was about two hours. I met with a large man behind a desk. He did everything to relieve my fears and anxiety. He told me that close of this year about 2,000 people would be filing for bankruptcy in southern Idaho. Just the fact we were not alone, relieved my anxiety.

I spent over an hour with this para legal. The one inch stack of forms, he set in front of me, got less intimidating as we went through them page and line by line. I paid him $200, because that was all I had in my pocket. I still had to come up with another $400 to cover his time and filing costs. When I left, I felt that this was the way we had to go to keep from ending up on the streets or in jail.

Later that day, when I told my wife what I had done. She just looked at me and smiled. Later that night I asked how she felt about going to seek help for bankruptcy. She told me that she was first angry with the world for us having to do it. Then she had to accept how bad off we were financially. Now she was feeling better. She said that she knows it is the right thing to do.

So this weekend I got to go through the box of bills, sort through them and fill out the bankruptcy forms. This if the first time in a long time I was able look at the box. Now I feel we are really climbing out of this whole.

Thursday - A Plan To Seek Help

2007-12-27T03:14:00.000-07:00

Well, it is Thursday. I am still alive. I have not committed suicide. I must stay positive. I have two other lives that are depending upon me. I must fight and climb out of this hole with every breath that is inside me. At lease we still have a roof over our heads.

Yesterday, my wife and I set a plan to help us through this time of disaster. I got a list of organizations that help people like us. Today, I am going to call each one. We really need to find out what we can do. We really need to keep a roof over our heads. We really need to keep our car, so we can get back and forth to work.

My hours at work have doubled. That is a good thing. I am just under 40 hours. My wife's job is continued until the end of January.

I really felt bad, yesterday, because I could not take my wife our to dinner. It was our anniversary. All I could give her was a hug and tell her how much I love her.

I am afraid to check the mail because of more bills. If we lose this place we can't afford to get in another one. Rents are what we pay for mortgage and space rent on this manufactured home.

I have some leads on blogs and other writing jobs. These I can do as a second job. Maybe just maybe this will bring in the extra income to get out of this whole we are inside.

Christmas Is Over Now The Street

2007-12-26T04:02:00.000-07:00

Christmas is over and now it is time to pay the piper. Debt and all the bills that were ignored from 2007 have come due. 2008 may find me on the street.

There is no one to blame but myself. My only regret is that this will affect my family, also.

Today, I am going to make a bunch of phone calls. I am hoping at the very least that I can move us to a small trailer. But we have no money.

Over the last couple of months I have been selling off almost every non-needed thing we own. Now our house is soon to go. Our income when from $1000 per week to less than $500, between my wife and I. It seems no matter what I have done in 2007 we kept bringing in less money. No the wolf is at the door.

At least our daughter had a good Christmas. We spent about $100 on her a guitar and cloths. Even still we are doom.

Hamburger For Christmas

2007-12-25T03:50:00.000-07:00

Christmas of 1972 is one Christmas I will never forget. I was 18. I had promised my parents that I would be home for Christmas. On December 23rd I was in Arizona hitchhiking my way to a small town north of Reno Nevada. I was without money and worried that I would make it home in time.

I got a ride from an older man who was driving to LA for Christmas. I could tell he had never picked up a hitchhiker because he asked to see my drivers license before he would let me in his car.

A couple hours later, he dropped me off at the freeway on ramp just outside Kingsman AZ. He was going to a near by restaurant to get a meal. About a few minutes later, he came back. Told me get in the car. Then he drove back to that restaurant, where he brought me a hamburger.

The next day was Sunday, and I was in Las Vegas. A man in his 30's gave me a ride. He dropped me off at a local church. After Sunday morning service, he took me to McDonald's. There he bought me a half dozen hamburgers, before dropping me off north of city.

I got home a 6pm on Christmas day. But I will never forget those Christmas hamburgers.

Rats Fleeing The Ship

2007-12-24T04:42:00.000-07:00

I llegal immigrate s leaving the United States and heading back home. Conditions are getting so rough that a growing number of illegal immigrates are head south for Christmas and good.

If I write about something that is happening in the news, I usually like to add the links or sources where I got the facts. Today, I found an article that maybe so new that I feel the need to write needs to be posted.

Are we starting to get so tough on them that they are leaving?
Is our economy so bad that the poverty of Mexico is attractive?

I have been told by several friends that I am over reacting. The American economy is not as bad I think it is. Do they have their heads in the sand? Maybe so. I just know that Latino's leaving the United States for home after being here for several years make me think of rats deserting a sinking ship.

What do you think? Am I right or Wrong?

CompUSA, Circuit City and Best Buy

2007-12-23T05:18:00.000-07:00

What does CompUSA, Circuit City, and Best Buy have in common besides being a Big Box Store?

Well CompUSA is closing there doors in 2008. The general belief is that their failing was due to lack of good customer service. CompUSA was not taking care of their customers.

Friday Circuit City is reporting huge losses. The spoke person said that Circuit City is expecting losses for the end of the year. I ask you were is their customer service?

Best Buy report cash flow earning don't look that healthy. I am curious what their earning report for the Christmas season will be like.

Regardless of CompUSA, Circuit City, and Best Buy's prices they are suffering from lack of good customer services. People who spend their hard earned money expect to get a good value and good service. People who go to Costco don't expect help in getting their electronics to work. They just want a great saving.

The stores that are going to benefit are the local computer and technology stores. They know the value of good customer service. Yes their prices are a little higher, but you get face to face customer service. If their is a problem the owner and/or manager is right there to get the issue resolved.

What is your preference, price or service?

Christmas Shopping - Last Weekend

2007-12-22T06:57:00.000-07:00

As the typical American man, I hate shopping. When it comes to Christmas shopping I put my back to the local mall and run as fast as I can.

My Christmas shopping is done by November 1st or I buy online. In the worst case, I will wait a couple days after Christmas for all the best deals. Anything to miss the Christmas crowds.

For you last minute Christmas shoppers. I have put below some last minute places to get the best deals.

For all you who do not know what to buy get a gift card. Frist read what Consumer Reports has to say about gift cards.

New Orleans Still Needs Help

2007-12-21T06:37:00.000-07:00

New Orleans is still on the road to recovery. After over 2 years New Orleans people are still suffering from Katrina. Money along with donations have poured into the area. It does not seem to be enough. Or could it be the money and donation are being miss managed?

People are rioting over the city destroying public hosting. The homeless population is currently double what it was before Katrina. It appears that people are forced to live in the streets while houses are vacant. Sure these homes may need work to make them livable.

Why can't these house owner offer a deal with the homeless. In exchange for staying in the house they clean it up. The homeless can do the labor while the house owner provide the materials to fix it up. This would be an arrangement that would benefit both the homeless and the house owner with rentals that are sitting empty.

It was mentioned to me that there is such a selfish level of corruption that the money for fixing up these houses from FEMA is pocketed by the owner. Tell me what you think?

Eric Volz Helpless Behind Bars

2007-12-20T04:27:00.000-07:00

Eric Volz is the prime example of being in another country, helpless because that country does not hold to the same legal values as we do. Thinking about Eric tightens my stomach with fear.

Eric Volz sits in a Nicaraguan prison with their court system saying release him. The sentencing judge and proscuter are not willing to release him. After a higher Nicaraguan court ordered his release, the sentencing judge hid out until the proscuter could file for an appeal of the higher court ruling.

I seriously doubt that Eric Volz will stay in Nicaragua. He will most likely leave the country to never return again. Instead this judge and friends wants to keep him there at the cost to the Nicaraguan people. It is like they are saying, We want to keep and make Eric suffer, because we like it.

I have heard enough horror stories about Americans in jail around the world. It has made me fearful to travel to abroad. I was afraid that I would be stuck in jail away from loved ones. The reason was I said or did something that offend the people in the country I was visiting.

Tell me about your experiences. What do you think about this subject?

Sex and Violence and Scandel

2007-12-19T04:51:00.000-07:00

Sex, violence and scandal get most all of the attention. The top news stories of today are centered around sex and violence.

The human desire for conflict and excitement takes over the news. Granted even the books that are most popular, like Harry Potter, have violence and conflict. What about the most popular online game, World of Warcraft?

I should talk. I watch on television all of the CSI's, and other crime drama's. In sports I watch NASCAR with all of it driver bumping and other conflicts on the track. Even in my reading of the Bible, the Old Testament characters overcoming adversity is what I tend to read.

Am I just as sick and pervert? No I am human. It is all part of you make up of being human.

Animal Abuse Is Close To Human Abuse

2007-12-18T05:11:00.000-07:00

In a small city next to Boise ID, at cat's tail was left in a mailbox. This is not an isolated incident. People who physically abuse animals have escalated to the abuse of men, women, and children.

This is a serious issue. There is even a national registry for people abuse animals. NBC air a report about a veterian who took investigating abuse to the level of CSI. We are going to see more special teams to protect animals.

There are two type of animal abusers. The aggressive physical abusers who mutilate and create fighting situations. Dog fights is the most common of this form of abuse. The other group just ignore proper care and feeding. Cats and dogs allowed to breed unclean and crowded conditions. I could list 100's of examples.

I am very emotion about this subject, because I an owner of three cats. Each has a personality of their own. They are a big part of our family.

Princess - The oldest, the most sophisticated, and overseer of the other two cats.
Star Fire - The most independent. Star Fire is our Garfield. A house cat that must go out each morning for his morning walk.
Oscar - The youngest that keeps the other cats young. He bolts through the house for any reason.

What can we do in our daily life to help the creatures in which we share this planet?

Jack La Lane is Back!

2007-12-17T03:42:00.000-07:00

This morning when I got up, my wife was up watching an info commercial of Jack La Lane. I had to do a double take. He is still alive.

I remember in the 50's and 60's watching Jack La Lane doing jumping jacks on our first TV. He was the first fitness guru on TV. His exercises were simple. Dad would do the exercises with Jack before he would go to work.

Today, he is doing one of those early morning info commercial. Now I got motivated me to Google Jack LaLane. Google came back with 58,600 and Yahoo came back with 146,000 instances that Jack La Lane was found on the World Wide Web.

I found JackLaLane.com. The Official website of Jack La Lane. So I click on the link. Jack has very impressive website. It contains a pictures, health tips, and products. There a few cartoons. It is done with the same energy and style that I remember as a kid watching him on TV.

You check out Jack's website. If for nothing else to see what a 91 year that exercises is like.

CIA or Google - You have no privacy

2007-12-16T04:41:00.000-07:00

Who knows more about you? Is it the CIA or Google?

Stop and think about it. The CIA, FBI, or should better say Homeland Security is constantly gathering information about US citizens. The information armed with the Patriot Act is to protect us from another attack like 9/11.

Now Google is a different story altogether. Is a publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange. It is a For Profit company. They give you search results, while at the same time they sell advertising and tracked market results.

Where does that leave you?

Well, I could take the stand of a paranoid person that says, "Everybody is out to get me." I could blow it off and say, "It is all just over reacting." However, I am at neither extreme. I am a realist.

I truly believe that we need to have safe guards in place to protect us. Information made public and held in trust needs to be done so with over site. As much as I hate the dirt showing of our presidential candidates, it is stuff we need to know. We need good impartial information to make informed decisions.

That is right. I am very middle ground when it comes to privacy. I do have some dark horses in my closet, but who doesn't? I do want to know who I am taking as a partner. But I do not want to read my neighbor's emails to his wife.

Christmas - What do you want?

2007-12-15T04:18:00.000-07:00

What do you want for Christmas?
Is it something practical?
Is it something fancy?
Is it something that will add to your toy list?
Could it be something that will benefit all of humanity?

My daughter is asking for a guitar. She want like music. She has that inter desire to perform in front of people. So at 7 years old is a good gift for her.

My wife has put up so much pain and heartache from different people. I want to give her something that will make her feel special.

I would just like to see a better year in 2008. So I my Christmas wish list is wisdom, and things that would make me a better person to whom I live around and do business.

I made bad decisions in 2007. Some accumulated affects of medications doctors put me on were finally seen. Now steps are being taken to reverse them. I am doing it with prayer and the doctors. That would be spending money I do not have at this time.

When I started this blog it was about the computer industry. It has been ever changing to me and my commentary of news. I would like to get it more focused to help people see a little different perspective than what might not been seen or read anywhere else.

Tell me what you want from this blog in 2008. That will be my Christmas gift to you.

Mitchell Report - Look Out!

2007-12-14T04:55:00.000-07:00

The Mitchell Report was released yesterday. It not only discussed the extent that sports enhancing drugs are used in baseball, but it named names of players that used them. There were not just 5 or 10 players, but 85!

The desire to excel in any sport pushes the player to get that little bit of an edge over the competition. It could be a trick move. Many teams record their games and play them back, afterwards for the team to learn and improve. I have even seen computer models showing what the individual player does in comparison to what he or she should be doing. Is there little wonder that what is ingested is meant to enhance a players performance.

Back when I was in high school (the late 60's) football players were told to eat high carbohydrate meals before a game to help them. This was usually meant a big plate of spaghetti. Today, we have specialize foods, drinks, and snacks to help player get the most out of their game.

The bigger the players salary, the bigger demand on performance and winning. Why should we be surprised about players using enhancing drugs. Sure drug test the player, but don't be surprised that they have been cheating on test.

Ever since the start of drug testing on sports, and other professions, there has been people who have wanted to cheat on the drug test. Along comes doctors, drugest, and criminals who have come up with ways to cheat those drug test. Infact you can go on the internet and get kits that will help you test clean on almost any drug test.

If we want a sport where the players are not using performance enhancing drugs, we will have to make that sport one that does not require high performance from the players. That sport would be no fun to play or watch.

Righting A Wrong - Is not $725

2007-12-13T03:24:00.000-07:00

Imprisoned for what he did not do. Branded for he was not. Made to suffer for a life time. Is $725 enough compensation?

Samuel Snow was imprisoned back in 1944. Fifteen months later he was release. He returned home where he worked as a janitor. Today, at 63 he received a slap in the face instead of justice.

The $725 is just for pay while he was imprisoned. No adjustments for the years it was withheld. Any non-government business would be forced to pay interest and penalties.

What about a lifetime of suffering a wrong? What about the US government admitting and standing up for the truth, and justice?

Today, Mr Snow name is not officially cleared. Medical benefits and retirement pay are withheld because of his discharge status has not be reversed. A veteran of WWII, caught in the wrong place at the wrong time is made to pay.

What would do if you were caught in this situation?

Fed, Stock Market, Oklahoma, It is all Down

2007-12-12T04:06:00.000-07:00

Watching the news, last night, all I heard was the word down. So all I could conlude was the December 11, 2007 was a very down day.
The Fed dropped interest rates, and the stock market went down. At the same time the housing crisis is making Christmas a real down time.

The ice storm has got Oklahoma down. Computer and government offices are down. More than 600,000 people have their electricity down. Airports are down.

A twin truck bombing in Algiers took down over 30 people. A triple car bomb in southern Iraq took down 39 people and wounding more than 100.

All this down stuff happening it is hard to be up about the Christmas. Maybe we need to looking at all the people who are helping others. That is a real up. In fact is that not the real meaning of Christmas and this time of the year.

Barbara Morgan, astronaut/teacher is up in McCall Idaho.
Electric crews from Texas are heading up to Oklahoma to help out.
Like always the Red Cross is up to helping people who need help.
Where would we be without the Salvation Army helping people up.
I do not know of a school, church or group that is not up and helping with food, toy, or clothing drive for those in need.

Oprah Not Obama For President

2007-12-11T03:57:00.000-07:00

I have read from an African American blogger who thinks that if Barack Obama got elected president, the 'Good Ole Boy' political system would eat him alive. This may be true. He is young and relativity in experienced when it comes to capitol hill workings.

Oprah Winfrey, on the other hand, is an individual that has built an organization from nothing. She has proven that she can get things done in a mega business structure. Of course entering the politics she would have to give up her show and some of her other interests.

But what about our founding fathers and the sacrifices they made for our country. They thought our country was worth putting their lives and reputations on the line. They gave us a great start as a country.

I have always been one of those who have said, "Make the politicians get real jobs and put successful business men and women in charge of running our government." I know it is a radical idea, but the vast majority of Americans disagree with me.

I feel that business people are more honest, more experienced, and more inclined to understand what is really going on.

What do you think?

Christmas, Church, and Mall Shootings

2007-12-10T02:46:00.000-07:00

Sunday, a mega church in Colorado Springs and a Christian missionary center near Denver were places of a deranged gunman. If these related incidents, police are still investigating.

Earlier this month, a mall in Omaha was the site of a youth taking out frustration and anger with a gun. Last February we saw another mall fall victim of a crazed shooter. There are many more that are not in the media's spot light.

Is this becoming more of a problem than we would like to think?

What is the cause? GUNS! I think not. It is the people who holding those guns and pointing them a innocent people.

Look a the background of these gunmen. They all seem to have a common thread. The inability to cope in current life conditions. Instead of seeking help. Instead of turning the gun on themselves, they lash out at those around them.

Maybe we should take a look around us. Find those who are getting close to the profile of these gunman. Then give them a Christmas gift of caring.

It could be as little as a Christmas Card or as much as becoming a friend. And only as a last resort report them to the police. For the mere protection of those around us.

NFL, NASCAR, Nestle USA

2007-12-09T04:34:00.000-07:00

What does the NFL, NASCAR, and Nestle USA have in common? Hint: It is not the letter "N".

Each team in the NFL strives to be the very best. They hire, fire, and trade staff and players to get the best possible team. Performance, teamwork and good administration all are important components.

NASCAR is made of different divisions. Each has it own specifications for cars, and length of race. A single owner may own several cars in one division. However each car is made up of group of men and women who strive to be the best in their division.

Nestle USA is the largest food company in the United States. Even though Nestle USA is the top food manufacturing company it is alway striving to even better. Each team whether it be sales, manufacturing or research and development seeks to be the best it can.

You guest it. Each of these top organization have and stay at the top by four important factors.

Team Work - No one person can do it all. Each and every member is dependent on the whole and the whole is dependent on each member.
Eye On The Goal - The team as a whole has a goal. Each member may have a small individual focus, but the ultimate is in the back of the mind of each team member.
No Individuals Position Is Secure - We see teams change player in a game. NASCAR drivers change team when their driving style does not work with a particular car and team.
Rewards - The rewards are great when a team meets and exceeds it goals. If a team fail, it is likely some team member will be asked to leave. New people will be invited to join the team.

Each organization may give the appearance of being cold in the way they treat their members. But you got to keep in mind the ultimate goal is first and foremost.

What attributes make you at the top of your selected field?

CompUSA - Is It True?

2007-12-08T03:34:00.000-07:00

The rumors are flying that CompUSA will close their doors in 2008. I first say a posting on Digg.com. Then this morning I saw it on Cnet.com and then Engadget.com.

The Big Box store that has be associated with computers and tech is closing. This signal the closing of an era in the realm of technology. When CompUSA first open in 1984 computers were very expensive. This lead to a large numbers of individuals to build their own computers.

Since the turn of the century computers have gotten cheaper. One can not build a computer for less that what you can buy a computer at Best Buy or Wal Mart.

I must admit that the only time I would go into CompUSA was to browse and check prices. Unless they had a great deal I would not buy anything there. I would go to the local computer or online for my regular computer shopping.

I thought it was interesting to read some of the comments on Digg about CompUSA. The comments from the PC World article confirm that shopping at CompUSA left a sour taste in many shoppers mouth.

When was the last time you shopped at CompUSA?

CIA - Human Rights - US Hipocrites

2007-12-07T02:57:00.000-07:00

The world is talking about the interrogation tapes that were destroyed by the CIA. The United States are on its way to being labeled hypocrites. We are suppose to be the leader, the champion in human rights, but since 911 we are not.

Guantanamo Bay has become a home of suspects without trial or due process. The Supreme Court seems to be unwilling to help. Since the latest news of the destroyed tapes by the CIA, this just makes the United States look more like the bad guy.

We are going into an election year. Everything that can happen to make President Bush look bad is going to be all over the news media. But why can't this be a time of putting things right.

We did or allowed to be done, things after 9/11, that were reactive. After all who would could not react after seeing our airplanes taken out of our control and slammed into the Twin Towers.

Enough time has past. It is time to admit our mistakes from over reacting. We need to get back to basics. This Christmas season is a good time to do it. We need to start to treating others, around the world, as we would like to be treated.

Mall Shooter or Hero - Our Young People

2007-12-06T04:35:00.000-07:00

A 19 year old gun goes on a shooting rampage in a mall in Omaha, Nebraska. Cnn honors 3 teenagers for doing outstanding work in their community. Five college students are arrested for assault in Pullman Washington. A 7 year old girl steps in front of a gunman to take bullets meant for her mom.

What makes the difference in our young people?

I believe every parent asks themselves this same question. Books have been written to help parents to raise better children. Yet we still have children that bring shame to our lives. Then it seems like the neighbors child is the shining star.

I have three children with quite a spread in age range. I know there are a few factors that make a big difference in their attitudes.

My attitudes and maturity as they were growing up.
My level of involvement in their school work when they were growing up.
My involvement with the things they like to do.
The way I communicated my expectations to them.

Reading my list you may think I take sole responsibility for the way they are living their lives. I do not. They make their own decisions. I am a mere guide to help them make their decisions, good or bad.

What is your parenting philosophy?

Northwest Rain - Gobal Warming?

2007-12-05T04:21:00.000-07:00

We all have been seeing the reports of the flooding along the Portland/Seattle coast. Just over a range of mountains, in Idaho they are have unseasonably warm weather of 58 degrees.

I remember in less than 1o years ago, day time temperatures verily would get over freezing level.

This is the warmest winter I have ever seen in the Northwest since I moved here over 10 years ago. In fact this winter in Idaho feels like the a winter down the coast south of San Francisco.

I don't think that this is just an unseasonably warm winter. I really believe we are in the middle of a trend. Al Gore is right. We better start doing something!

I see so many cars driving down the road that only have one individual in them. We could cut the green house emissions by have two people in a car. Or we could make an even bigger impact by just walking to work.

What are you going to give, planet Earth, this Christmas to reduce global warming?

Employer Loyality Or Just Business

2007-12-04T03:39:00.000-07:00

Christmas seems to be an unusual time of the year for employers and their employees. The employer must make decisions concerning employer/employee relations. A business owner gets caught between keeping the business in good standing financially or foster employer loyalty. Short term or long term results?

Charles Dickens in his story Christmas Carol deals with generosity of the employers heart. Unfair labor practices for the employee may be unfair for the employer. It is the Christmas Season, hard and fast rules of business should give way to helping the less fortunate.

What makes the differences? Does decisions change when an employee is employed by a small business or large corporation. After all a business that is on hard times should not go under for the sake of its' employees.

Christmas 2007, regardless the media wants to admit, is a difficult time. I walked through a small shopping center. Over half of the store fronts were empty. This one of the busiest sections of town.

Who do you think should shoulder the burden of this year's Christmas cheer? Employers or the working class? Or should we just treat the Christmas Season as any other time of the year?

Larry Craig - More Gay Sex

2007-12-03T03:54:00.000-07:00

Just when you thought that the horse was dead and buried, the smell of decaying flesh attacks.

Yesterday, my eyes caught headlines of the Idaho Statesman, Larry Craig's name was back in the news. The Statesman was detail accounts of other Larry Craig gay activities. The evidence is that we may be dealing with more under neath the surface.

I wonder if there is not a lot more older married men, having gay sex on the side. This can not be just on isolated event. If so what is causing this behavior.

When I tried to search the internet for statics about the subject, I found nothing directly. Could it be such a taboo subject that no one wants to talk about it?

The only thing I could find, on the internet was related stats for the increase of sexually transmitted disease in married and gay men (18%). The number of sex offenders per 100,000 population (208), nationally.

So is this a growing problem? or a small minority in our society?

Cell Phones - Not Just A Phone Anymore

2007-12-02T04:24:00.000-07:00

I remember back when a cell phone looked like a walkie talkie. Today, cell phones are small and do almost as much as a laptop computer.
Look at the iphone. It came on the market last June. It is not just a regular cell phone. It is the standard to compare others like the Blackberry and Palm. All of which are high end personal digital assistants/cell phones.

What about us who can not afford a $400 phone. Well, there is the pay-as-you-go phone or more commonly called the Go Phone.

Even these phone are more than just a telephone. They have features like a camera, games, and text messaging just for starters.

No wonder many people are giving up their traditional telephone for these little phones.

It is estimated that there are over 1.2 billion cell phone subscribers in the world. I personally that figure is low.

What amazes me the most is how can all these phone conversations go through the air with out messing up or bleeding over to other cell phone conversations.

Legend, Suicidal, Thrill Seeker, Extreme Knievel

2007-12-01T03:33:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, Evel Knievel died at the age of 69. To the older generations he was called a thrill seeker, suicidal, or the ultimate thrill seeker.

I remember watching him on television jumping over cars, trucks, and canyons in his red, white and blue costume. Sometimes he would fail and crash. He is the only man I know that has broken every bone in his body and live to tell about it.

His most famous stunt was probably an attempt to jump over Idaho's quarter mile wide Snake River Canyon in 1974. They even made a movie about him, "Viva Knievel!" in 1977.

I have often wondered what makes a man do the things that Evel Knievel did. Was it for fame, money, and the adreline rush? Could he of have been a showman in his own art form?

Gas Prices Up - Stock Market Up

2007-11-30T04:08:00.000-07:00

The stock market is making a turn upward since recent near depression drop. The drop in the stock market was because of over extended credit on homes. Thus resulting in foreclosures. Higher gas prices did not help matters any.

In the last couple of days we have seen a nice upward trend in the stock market. Arab inverters are putting money in Citigroup to help our financial crisis.

The new Federal Reserve head is playing a cautious role in the decision to cut interest rates or not.

A lot of people seem to be just trying to get through the Christmas Holiday in hopes of a brighter future after the first of the year.

The average family, and more so the family that is running tight with money and the one who feel it the most. Gas prices are up. The very people we pay for our crude oil is buying our country.

It seems we as members, citizens of the United States have not been very productive. Now we are paying for it. Should be not cut back on our standard of living and learn to product more and be more efficient than what we use

Kingdom of Heaven

2007-11-29T04:50:00.000-07:00

The Kingdom for Heaven is not meant for this life. Even though we are here for a very short time, it will make such a large impact as to how we spend our lives on the other side.

The phrase Kingdom of Heaven refers to a state or life of harmony with God, man and nature. Different cultures around the world use the phrase to rally people to their belief system.

Jesus when he spoke on Mt Olivet said, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven." There are other references such as: "Seek ye first...", "The kingdom of heaven is within you...", and "the kingdom of heaven is at hand."

I know different men have abused the phrase. Some for selfish pleasure. Others have used the phrase as a movie title.

This Christmas where is your Kingdom of Heaven? Is helping those around you or is it stuck in selfish pleasure?

Hillary Clinton, Larry Craig, George W. Bush

2007-11-28T07:17:00.000-07:00

What do these three people have in common, beside being politicians. Well, the news and other media groups like to poke fun at them.

There is a website named Stupid.com. If you are looking for that perfect Christmas gift to a good friend that has everything. Or a political rival who you would like to give a good ole jab in the ribs.

You can order from Stupid.com any of the following items.

Make Christmas fun this year. Give a gag gift and laugh.

Tameka Foster gave birth to a boy.

2007-11-28T04:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Tameka Foster had baby boy weighing 7 pounds and 9 ounces. She is the wife of Usher.

There are times when through all the bad things in this world a spark of good news gives us hope. One of those sparks of life is the birth of a child.

News reporting or commentary by its very nature attracts readers when something bad happens. It could be to some individual or some group. If you stop to think about it. It can be quite depressing, and a bad way start ones day.

I would rather hear about a good quality of life.
I would rather hear about some good happening.
I would rather hear about the rise in the stock market.

Take today, and look for the good things in the news. The good things in life around you.

Disasters - Hope in Dispair On Cyber Monday

2007-11-25T15:42:00.000-07:00

Disasters - Fire, Hurricane, Flood on Increase is the underline theme of news headlines. 120 disasters per year in the early 1980's has rose to over 500. Scientist say is it all because of Global Warming.

Today is Cyber Monday, the Monday after Thanksgiving that shoppers turn from the mall to the internet for the Holiday shopping deals. Did you know that Cyber Monday was originally a marketing gimmick that has turned into a shopping reality.

The earth is fall apart. The stores are working hard to get our money. Our youth have this idea that there will be peace on earth.

This is why we protested in the 60's and 70's. We wanted to change the self righteous, political establishment. Human rights, removing anger were our goal. Where are we today?

We have failed at changing the order of the universe. Some have buried their heads in drugs, or religion. Maybe we should read the BIBLE again. Take hope in a new heaven and new earth, after this one has pasted away.

Southern California On Fire - Again?

2007-11-25T03:35:00.001-07:00

Flames rage up the mountains and down the canyons above Malibu. According to CNN, 1500 acres and 20 plus homes in less than 5 hours have been burned.

The fear is back, that only weeks ago, gripped the residents. Vivid images of smoke and 75 foot flames tower over their up scale community.

Malibu is a trendy, upper class city of southern California. The city's website gives you current news and events.

Here we go again. Dry grass and strong winds make for deadly mixture. There has not been enough winter to any rain in the sunshine state.

Could we be looking at a trend for the next few months?
Could Southern California become scorched earth?
Could this all be part of Global Warming?

Tell me what you think.

Brazilian Jail - Brazil Girl

2007-11-24T04:21:00.000-07:00

I am amazed at the lack of respect some people have for each other. This morning when I read about a 15 year old girl in jail with 21 men, I got sick to my stomach.

An area of northern Brazilian state called Para is about twice the size of France. This area is known for being a lawless state. The reported events around the jailed girl only speak to the depraved nature of this region.

CNN reports that social workers were barred from visiting this girl. Other reported events speak of a massive cover up. Now the world is looking to Para everybody is getting on the band wagon crying for justice.

What I want to know is how did this 15 year old girl end up in a jail with 21 men. Don't tell me that this is an isolated event. I have read other reports to where this is much more common than what the local government wants us to believe.

News reports from the BBC tell of more barbaric behavior among the local officials in charge of the jails.

What will happen? The general public cry for justice. People march and protest. Some local government officials will retire, quietly. Other officials will go to jail, in a prison of all women.
But many of people, especially in the United States will go on with Christmas shopping.

Black Friday?

2007-11-23T04:19:00.000-07:00

Why do they call the day after Thanksgiving, Black Friday? It seem to me it would be better to call it "Green Friday". Green meaning money. It is the day big day that merchants start the big push to separate you from your money.

This year many malls are opening a 1am. Their are even a few major stores that were open yesterday with their "After Thanksgiving Sale".

Anyway, if you are reading this you more than likely have braved the early morning crowds a your local mall. In the process you have been elbowed, toes stepped on, and a little poorer.

The real Black Friday is for the 154 people on a cruse ship Explorer that is going down in the Antarctic waters. Unlike the Titanic of 1912, all the passenger are report to have been safely evacuated and on other ships.

The word Black has such a dark, unhappy, and disastious implication to the day. Regardless of all that is happening in the world. I have purposed to make this a good day after Thanksgiving. How am I going to do that? I am going to continue to thank people I know for their influence in my life.

Thanksgiving Is Being Thankful

2007-11-22T06:13:00.000-07:00

Today is a day to be thankful for what we have. There are 100's of stories of people who are thankful for what they have, this Thanksgiving.

This year has been a very rough year for my family and I. When I look around, I see people who are far worst off than us. The little two-year-old Indian girl who has gone through massive surgeries just to function in this world. The families of all the causalities of Iraq. And they many more who I could list. But they would make us all depressed.

What I want to write about this morning is my family. Like any other family we have had our disagreements. There are members who have not talked to seen for years. But I love them, everyone. Why? Because they are family.

I am thankful for each member of my family living or dead has influenced on my life.

My Dad - He was very old school. Not very well educated. He did the best he knew how to do. I am thankful that was such a hard worker. He would work long hard hours in a saw mill to put food on our table.
Mom - She had us two boys. Regardless of our stubbornness, she taught us that we needed to be moral good Christian men who respect those in the world we live.
My Brother - We have not seen or spoke to each other in years. I am still thankful for him. Even though he is my younger brother, I look to him as my older brother. Considering our parents two sons, he was always the more mature.
My Wife - Yes, this is my 4th marriage, but Norma and I have lived together for over 11 years. I have never closer now than we are at this time. She keeps me from going off the deep end of despair. I look at her and see a reason to keep going.
Tre'anna - My youngest daughter. All girl, smart, and energetic describes her.
Carolyn - I have not talked with in years. Even though she only lives a few miles from me. I think about her and her brother. I see my wasted, rebellious youth.
Everett John (Jay) - I have not seen him for years. When I hear about his adventures and life, I see myself at his age. I only wish I could of have been a more positive influence on his life.
Norman Ford - My father-in-law who I have only talked with on the phone. I see the influence of his life. I respect him for all his hard honest work in a difficult time, and difficult situations.
Mary ? - My sister-in-law. I don't think I have ever know someone who is so tender hearted and caring about my wife, her little sister.
Edward - A brother-in-law who I have never met face to face. I have talked with him many times on the phone. I have read some of his writing, and learned some of his history. Sometimes I wish my life was as valiant and courageous as his.

That is my family. Near and far from me physically, and emotionally. This Thanksgiving 2007, I am thankful for them. The influence they have in my life.

Cambodian - Khmer Rouge; Justice At Last

2007-11-20T04:17:00.000-07:00

In the Cambodian capital, the alleged chief torturer, Kaing Guek Eav, of the Khmer Rouge appeared in court. The U.N.-backed genocide tribunal opened its first formal hearing.

The Cambodian Khmer Rouge was credited with the death of 1.7 million people. That was 21% of the Cambodian population The deaths were either from executioin, disease, starvation or overwork over a four year period. The book and the 1984 movie Killing Fields was about this dark period in Cambodian history.

Now after nearly 30 years, justice is being served. Thanks to funds from the United Nations these demons of death and torture will get displayed before the world. As the world looks on, the Cambodian people get to renounce what was done. This should give some closure to the survivors.

But why so long? It seems to me that it is almost inhuman torture to hold these men in prison all these years. The same swift speedy justice that was done to Nazis after World War II should of have been done to these men. The Nazi tortures were found tried and executed within a 10 years after the end of WWII.

JJ Did It - NASCAR Champion

2007-11-19T03:59:00.000-07:00

Jimmy Johnson did it again. Two NASCAR Nextel Cup Championships back to back. This has not happen in NASCAR since 97 and 98 when Jeff Gordon did it.

I have been watching or following the NASCAR Cup series for a long time. NASCAR has gone through a lot of changes. Cars, rules, drivers, not to mention the money.

I wonder if a NASCAR champion of 30 years ago could drive in the Cup Series of today. Why? Take a look at what is required of a drive in 2007. A NASCAR driver of today not only has to be great driver, but he must be a great pr symbol.

I remember when Tony Stewart won his first championship. Joe Gibbs had to stand beside him. Everytime Tony start to say the wrong thing, Joe would poke him in the ribs or step on his toe.

NASCAR is a big money, big family image sport. This is a big difference from when it first started. Back in its early years, drivers were drunks, rough, and crazy. They were not pictured as ideal family men.

Junior Johnson was is another NASCAR champion who is a prime example of the NASCAR of the past. He ran moonshine, illegal whiskey, then took his driving skills to track.

Boise State Football - Really, Really Good

2007-11-18T04:20:00.000-07:00

BSU is having back to back championship seasons. Can there be any other football team that deserves the recognition considering all they have been through.

This month beating opposing teams with scores like 52 - 0 and 58 - 14 makes Boise State football team look really good or those other guys really bad. Well, if you drive around the city of Boise Idaho will see it and its residence deck out in orange and blue. They believe their team is really, really good.

I am not one that follows to much sports, but my family, along with the most of the nation, and myself is tracking each yard and victory. Is that Bronco Fever? Yes it is and all of central Idaho has it.

Next week the Boise State Broncos along with a large portion of Boise Idaho will be in Hawaii. This will mean if Boise will go to the Sugar Bowl or not. Depending on who you read, BSU or UofH will be a good close game.

Well, for half of the nation recovering from turkey and cranberry overdose. BSU at Hawaii will make a good game to watch. Let the wives and moms go shopping, the men will get their adrenaline flowing by watching the first quarter of the BSU vs Hawaii game.

MySpace Suicide - Megan Meier’s

2007-11-17T04:29:00.000-07:00

Megan Meier’s MySpace Suicide just goes to show a vurnenable our children are to this electronic media, known as the internet. Even under close parental supervision, a young teenager hangs herself over an prank!

The latest figures on teenage suicide Each year 5000 teen and young adults kill themselves. The suicide rate for 15-19 year olds was higher approaching the 1990's than it had ever been. It is expected, that in this decade, 2000-2010, 2 million 15-24 year olds will attempt suicide.

Our children should out live us. Every time my daughter runs to her bedroom crying, I ask myself, "How is she going to deal with the problem she ran to her room over?"

We can not put our children in a protective bubble, but we give them skills to cope with lives disappointments. No! We got to do more we go to live and teach them to deal with the hard things in life. The rejection, the bullies, and all the other pressures in growing up.

That is why everyday, I get on my knees and pray to God for wisdom in raising my daughter. You see, my two oldest children, I was not there for them. Periodically, I see them on the internet. My heart cries. I can not help blame myself for not being there for them when they were young.

Barry Bonds - It is over

2007-11-16T04:25:00.000-07:00

It looks like Barry Bonds career is over. He was taking steroids. His 762 home runs will forever have the mark of being drug induced.

It is official,Barry Bonds lied. He lied to millions of baseball fans. He lied to the baseball commission. He lied to the United States Congress. He lied to himself, thinking he could get away from the truth.

We can't fully blame Barry Bonds. The pressure is so great to excel in sports, work, and life we are all looking for something that will give that little edge. Sports figures are tempted with steroids.

I did a little research. I could not find any cost number for professional sports. However, a high school football team testing for steroids have an budget expense from $7,000 to 9,000 per season. That is a lot of money for any high schools budget.

Baseball players having the pressure to perform. Leagues having the pressure to keep everyone honest. Which means on a level drug free playing field. This is going to affect the cost of us who want to go and see a good honest game?

Paris and Six Drunk Elephants?

2007-11-15T03:58:00.000-07:00

This morning when I was going through the morning news and trends, I had to stop and do a double take. There was a news headline about Paris Hilton and six drunk elephants.Images popped into my head of Pairs Hilton getting six elephants drunk and taking them down Hollywood Blvd.

Then I saw another posting on the internet of Paris Hilton doing a pole dance, in New York City. Man, that girl gets around. Talk about a wild child.

Where are her parents? What do they think about her crazy life style? They can not be approving.

Britney Spears is in the news again. If you like keep track of all these wild children and their adventures check out TMZ.com.

Look at me, talking like my parents in the 60's and 70's. The only difference is that, today the news of our children's wild deeds get out to the world a lot faster.

Sowing ones wild oats comes with rumors and some pretty tall tales of deeds done. I just hope some of those rumors are not true. I hope the wild oats won't do any lasting damage. But Six drunk elephants being lead down Hollywood Blvd by Paris Hilton. That is just a bit too wild.

Eva Longoria Sex Tape?

2007-11-14T04:48:00.001-07:00

Eva Longoria has confirmed that she has starred in the sex tape. Eva says that it’s not what the people are thinking. The tape is a funny video and not a real sex tape. Desperate Housewives star did this minute-long video. It was a staged for FunnyOrDie.com.

I put the video below for you to see. It is nothing more than two people joking around on a bed.

People in the public eye like that attention. It not only feeds their ego, but it means money in their large bank accounts. This "sex tape" is nothing more than a semi clean "publicity stunt".

Us common folks love to see and hear about sex, drugs, especially dirt on anybody in the public eye. This year we have seen Senator Larry Craig, Britney Spears, and a host of others. Our human nature loves to view the dark side of other. That way we feel more self righteous.

The Osmond Family

2007-11-13T04:17:00.000-07:00

Possibly one of the greatest fathers died a week ago in Provo Utah. George Osmond was the patriarch of one of the most popular singing families. All of his children including Donny and Marie are known for their singing and family values.

A true test of any man's reputation is by the lives of his children. Not many men, after they are dead have their children on Oprah's show. The Osmond siblings discussed the man who created an entertainment dynasty-their father. They honor his memory with laughter, tears and an incredible.

Even though I may disagree with his religious beliefs, I wish I could of have had the same influence on my children as he did. He had to be a businessman, a counselor, an expert at time management, a coach, and a life of personal integrity. I can not see anyone faulting George Osmond.

I can not see any better example of an earthly father.

Oil Spill, Russian Disaster, West Mother

2007-11-11T19:01:00.000-07:00

This morning when I was checking the morning news the Oil Spill in the San Francisco Bay, the Russian Oil Spill, and Rapper Kanye West's mother dies. All this bad news and more after a supposed positive NBC's Green Week. All of this bad news is quite depressing. I haven't even touched on the state of financial institutions.

Of course every week, along with most everyday is filled with death. Some days more than others. It is not just people, but plants, animals, and our planet. What is a person to do?

One of the most inspiring song I have heard in years comes from a now cancelled TV show. That was Star Trek Enterprise. The song is titled, "Faith of the Heart".

I have been called an eternal optimist. It may just be so. But in the light of so much death, and gloom we need to have a ray of light.

I have embedded the long version of the video from YouTube. Listen and watch it a couple of times. It may motivate you to go out and do something positive, today.

Veterans - Thank You

2007-11-11T03:53:00.000-07:00

Today we honor those men who fought so that we could have basic freedoms. Over the 200+ years of our country we have had many wars. Millions have suffered both physical and mental wounds for an idea and philosophy we hold; "Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."

We have always had citizen of this country who disagreed with our government to fight a war. That is okay. Men and women have fought, suffered, and died so they could voice their objections.

This morning I have searched on Google Images. Some were not pretty. Some made war look glorious. There were even some charts and posters.

Still I have to say, THANK YOU, to all those who fought in wars, and conflicts. I may not of have agree with them all, but I have to respect what was done for my freedom.

Da Vinci's - Everybody Loves A Mystery

2007-11-10T04:46:00.000-07:00

Leonardo Da Vinci was a man who had a power affect on mankind to this day. From the the Mona Lisa to the Da Vinci Code. and the Last Supper all contain a shroud of mystery.

Everybody loves a secret, hidden treasure, or code. Even down to solving a crossword puzzle. It makes us feel smart when we find it.

Leonardo Da Vinci was a smart man. I believe he knew very well how everyone loves a mystery. He used it to sell his painting. A great marketing tool.

In our age of information and computers, this same mystery/marketing tool is being used. It is called an Easter Egg. They are games, pictures, and other neat little things hidden in DVD's, pictures, and computer programs.

These Easter Eggs may not of have increase sales, but they keep people going back to see these little hidden treasures.

Toys - Recall - Which Ones Are Safe?

2007-11-09T04:23:00.000-07:00

The news has been filled with dangerous toys. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission list is so long I have given up on trying to research the reason for each recall. I do know that the vast majority of toys come from China.

Toy Info.org is a website that is sponsored by the US Toy Industry to help inform parents about the recalled toys. Kids Health.org is another resource for finding safe toys for your children. About.com has a complete guide to help choose toys by age range.

Call me a bit old fashion, but what has happen to wooden building blocks, and Legos? These are the toys that have been around through many generations. They have been proven safe, entertaining and educational.

Considering that this is going to be tight Christmas on many families pocket book. Going back to the basics may be a good move.

War Veterans - Homeless

2007-11-08T03:58:00.000-07:00

This morning CNN reported that 25 percent of the homeless population in the United States are war veterans, while the homeless represent 11 percent of the civilian adult population. Soldiers returning from the Iraq war are becoming homeless more quickly than veterans from Vietnam.

The inability to readjust back into American society has been given the reason for the problem.

I thought this was only a problem with returning soldiers of the Vietnam era. But the same post traumatic stress is affecting our returning soldier from Iraq and Afghanistan.

This problem is not just to young men in the early 20's, but 30, and 40 returnees. War has always ways been called, "HELL". Spending a year or so in HELL changes a man or a woman to the point that functioning in American Society difficult.

Hearing loud noises and thinking it is gun fire. The inability to relax. Coming home a different person. All these mark a war vet.

Bottomline: What can we do for these poor torment men and women? They didn't give their lives for their country. They gave their emotional sanity.

Oil Is Still Rising!

2007-11-07T04:45:00.000-07:00

Oil is still rising Oil prices jumped to a new trading record above $98 a barrel Wednesday. Traders remain worried about whether supplies will be adequate to meet demand for heating fuel in the approaching Northern Hemisphere winter.

All the experts are saying that it is going to be a cold winter. Home heating oil to gasoline for your car will be in short supply. There is not relief in sight!

Economic Analysis say that the upward trend of the price of oil is in relation to the down ward trend in the U.S. dollar. So what are we to do???

As a nation we must learn to use less crude oil. As individuals we must reduce our lifestyles. Instead of living from pay check to pay check, we need to look at increase our financial cushion.

I realize this is difficult considering the cost of living keeps going up, up, and up. If we are going to keep from living on the streets, we have to take some radical action.

Al Quada Is After Our Children

2007-11-06T04:30:00.001-07:00

In London, MI5 broke the news that Al Quada has been actively recruiting teenagers. I don't believe that it is only in England that this is happening.

Us as parents get to busy to spend time with our children. They become prey for radical group that want to use them as human bombs.

Being a teenager is difficult enough; raging hormones, awkwardness, along with just trying to fit in a group. If the parents are off to work, and other social activities there is no guidance.

In the United States, Dr James Dobson has devoted his whole life to keeping families together and safe.

In Europe, they work at giving young people an education or trade. Europe program unofficially titled, "Every young person education and skill to work." This is done in hopes young adults will have value of self worth in what they do and who they are.

My question is what are we going to do about keeping our children from becoming human bombs for Al Quada?

Pakistan and You

2007-11-05T04:22:00.000-07:00

Some people are asking why should they be concerned about Pakistan. A country half a world away. It would be taking U. S. dollars that we need so badly here. Especially since we have the Christmas season so close and our economy is so bad.

On the service it looks like the old line of politicians leaders don't want a woman in power. Maybe the current leaders don't want to leave their position of power. I agree with the report from the BBC. The root cause is that Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf (if you can pronounce his name) has had several ruling against him from the the Pakistan courts.

What makes it so scary for me is that a group of men can for no apparent reason declare martial law, and then devolve the country's legal system. Pakistan police , even, used force against lawyers when they tried to reverse this crisis through legal means.

The bottom-line: No one individual or group in power has the right to change the rules if it does not suit their own agenda.

Daylight Saving Time - Fall Back

2007-11-03T11:08:00.000-07:00

Daylight Savings Time has ended for most of us. There are only one state that is stubborn to have time their own way, that is Arizona. Set your clocks back one hour. If you want more information about Daylight Saving Time click here.

You have 25 hours, today, instead of the usual 24. That means you can sleep, work, or just watch football for an extra hour. I hope you are not like some businesses that are open 24/7. That may mean your shift will be an extra hour long.

California - Shake and Bake

2007-11-03T04:27:00.000-07:00

On Halloween morning, a magnitude 5.6 earthquake struck in a rural area of northeast of San Jose, California.

Southern California is lining up fire crews and aircraft to get a jump on wildfires if the hot, dry Santa Ana winds expected to return this weekend cause major flare-ups.

I left California over ten years ago, because the cost of living was just getting so high. The poverity level was around $30,000. From an article in the Pittsburgh Turbine the cost of living in California has not changed much.

People and disaster are making California an undesired place to live. Southern California is suffering from fire damage and the threat of fires. Northern California is constantly in the fear of a major earthquake. Those in the middle or on the outer edges of California are suffering financially from the economic impact.

We are headed for tough times. The people in California will probably suffer more than the rest of us. We as part of the United States, one nation, under God need to pull together. If we all stay in our own little world and cry, we too may end up "Shaken and Baken".

Stock Market Down - Oil Is Up

2007-11-01T16:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, the New York Stock Exchange dropped a 360 points as investors found themselves confronted by two big negative reports. Oil prices shot up to $96 per barrel. Citigroup Inc. and Bank of America Corp., the two biggest U.S. banks, were downgraded for being a credit risk.

Investors pulling money out of stocks turned to the safe haven of the Treasury market. Bloomberg is reporting a darker picture of our nations financial health. Asian and European stock markets are down following what has happen in New York.

The stock markets have built in a suppose crash protection. In light of what has been happening in the housing market and oil, that crash protection has just delayed a major crash. You only can delay a bad thing only so long.

This Christmas/Holiday shopping season is going to be very weak. Don't expect any bail out sales numbers. High oil prices will raise prices and reduce sales. The housing mortgage issue will only reduce sales. I don't see any major turn around this year. Maybe after the election next November?

Halloween - Is Over and Weird

2007-11-01T02:50:00.001-07:00

Yesterday's news has a slight weird and frightful bent. California had another earthquake. The death toll in the Dominican Republic and Haiti rose to 81, from Tropical Storm Noel. The television Halloween specials seemed to have gone over the top.

Well Halloween is over. It sure seem like a weird one.

Uploading my blog's picture of the day was delay by over an hour.
A visit to the hardware superstore had a debt card malfunction.
Cell phone stopped working from 8 am to 3 pm.
My two main email accounts were stuck downloading email.
Voices over the phone were blending with people in the same room as me.
The only thing that seem normal was the Halloween party at end of the day.

Well, I am glad it is over today is All Saints Day. Hopefully life will start getting back to some resemblance of normal.

Blackwater - State Department

2007-10-31T03:22:00.000-07:00

Blackwater just wants to make money with their guns. The State Department just wants to smooth things over with very little publicity. The Justice Department wants to find law breaker and prosecute them. Everyone has their own agenda from their perspective.

The drama of gun for hire in a war zone is being played out in the media, and in Washington. Has anyone considered what it may be like living and working in a war zone where their are not clear boundaries.

A century ago war was fought quit differently. There was Side A and Side B. Each side had their physical control of land. Then their was a strip of land in the middle. That was called the Battle Zone.

Today, war has no clear boundaries. The Korean Conflict, Vietnam War, along with military actions of a prolong nature find soldiers of Side B living inside land occupied by Side A.

This I believe, why so many of our soldiers act out of character. Even the suicide rate of return soldiers from Iraq has the VA concerned. Oh well, just call it "Post Tramantic Stress Syndrome".

The Internet - No Privacy

2007-10-30T05:22:00.000-07:00

Malicious computer code is on the increase. It installs files such as Trojans, password captures, keyboard loggers and other malware on computer user's systems registered a five time increase in the first half of 2007, according to Microsoft.

Vontage the large voice of the internet firm is finding that their system is not secure for hackers. Intercepted phone calls. Making screaming across Time Square more private than using Vontage.

The homes away from home are risky place to hook you laptop. You need to take certain precautions. Hanging out in a motel with free wireless connection is a great way to read other travelers information that is on their hard drive.

I have seen so many people in denial when it comes to computer security. Then they are in shock when their credit card information is stolen. It is alway not a big thing when it happens on the outside of the United States.

Red Sox Are Hot

2007-10-29T03:19:00.000-07:00

The Red Sox are hot. They did a sweep to win the World Series. 2007 is a very goo year for Boston. Celebrations will going on from now through and maybe after Halloween.

This is a great break from such depressing heart breaking news.

Fires in California have got people worried about air quality.
The death of 7 college students in a NC beach house.
Death rate climbs in Iraq.

I have glad that there are some good things happening in the world amongest so much tragic events. All to often there is to much bad news, when in reality there is a lot of good things happening.

War Protests - Again!

2007-10-28T02:26:00.000-07:00

I am a child of the 60's. Images of war protests are burned into my memory. So when I saw on the news anti-ware protest about Iraq, I started to flash back to the Vietnam era.

Hundreds of young adults filling the street. Some with their fists raised in the air chanting some anti-war slogan. Others were carrying sign liking President Bush to Adolf Hitler. All of them angry about our current governments actions of violence.

From San Francisco to New York, including nine other cities across the United States. A well plan group of protest of a level I have never seen. Of course that is the result of the internet. Websites, emails, and instant messaging bring together like minded people to such a massive protest.

Like every anti-war protest police were busy with crowd control. Arrest of the unruly ones are part of any respectful protest. Even rain could not dampen the resolve to yesterdays protesters.

What will the result of these leader?

California Fire - Recovery

2007-10-27T03:55:00.000-07:00

The Santa Ana winds have gone. People are starting to return to their homes. The people of Southern California are dealing with even poorer air quality. Evacuation centers are starting to close down.

In the last few days I have observed people from all across the nation rushing to the aide. Firefighters from Idaho have gone to Southern California to give relief to local firefighters. President Bush goes to support fire fighting weary men and women. The United Way are deeply involved in helping people affected by the fire.

I am glad to see so many people pitching in to help. A disaster this massive is going to take a lot more than token efforts. I am sure some of these victims help those victims of Katina and other disasters through out the world. Now it is our time to help them.

World Series - Who Cares

2007-10-26T03:38:00.000-07:00

This year you can watch the World Series on the Fox Network. I can't even tell you who is playing. To be honest with you I am more concern about the fires in Southern California, and other current events.

If you are a baseball fan, you are probably calling me un-American. I am not. It is just that in our fast pace world baseball is just to slow of pace for me. I started to fall asleep in the last Oakland A's game I attended. Give me something like NASCAR, football, or even basketball.

National sports attendance along with the viewership on television says I am not alone. NASCAR is the fastest growing American sport. Football and basketball each have viewership that greatly over shadows baseball.

I hope baseball doesn't go away. I think they should change the rules to make it a little more fast paced. Maybe they could give the batters a little more advantage. Instead of a 2 - 0 game have the average game score 50 - 49.

While Back In Northern California

2007-10-25T04:07:00.000-07:00

While every bodies attention is focused on the fire storm and is destruction in Southern California, some interesting business news has been taking place in Northern California. This is one reason why it is always good to a wide perspective of what is happening around the country and the world.

Microsoft, the software giant has bought a share of Facebook. For $3 billion Microsoft gets 20% share of the company. This makes Yahoo's earlier offer for to buy the company for a mere one billion look weak. I have not seen any number for Google was offering, but I am sure it fell short to what Microsoft bid.

What would pay for a piece of Facebook? It is number #2 social networking website behind My Space. Facebook boasts of over 50 million active users. Expected profits for this year is in the $30 million range.

If you compare Facebook and MySpace, Facebook maybe leave MySpace in the dust before the end of the year.

California Fire Storm

2007-10-24T03:14:00.000-07:00

Southern California has turned into a Firestorm. A spokesman for California's Office of Emergency Services, said the state had not seen such a large evacuation since records were kept in California. The fires have reached outskirts of the Mexican city of Tijuana, 20 miles from San Diego.

Economic losses from the only guessed at being in the hundreds of millions of dollars. We will never really know until after it is all over. The flames are still raging with no end in sight.

I am glad to see President George W. Bush and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's working together to get resources to fight the fire. California’s first lady Maria Shriver Maria, a famous broadcast journalist has gone on television to give some direction for those who are wanting to help the victims in this massive disaster.

If you want to help the best place to start is with the Red Cross.org

Southern California Fires - What's Happening?

2007-10-22T03:12:00.000-07:00

Fires are erupting throughout Southern California like some Black Plaque. From south of San Diego to Santa Barbara counties, California fire crews are stretched as far as they can without endangering their lives. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger declared a state of emergency in the affected areas.

At the same time the east coast will be covered with rain. Will this be relief for their drought? What is happening?

The weather has gotten crazy. Global warming is on everyones mind. Are we nearing the end of the world, as we know it?

Yes, I know a lot of heavy question to ask one's self for a Monday morning. But considering the current state of our country, not politically, but ecologically, we should spend some time thinking about what we can do.

George W. Bush and Bill Clinton

2007-10-21T04:47:00.000-07:00

The last few months of George W. Bush presidential term and William J. Clinton is quite a contrast. President Clinton's last months was marked by an attempted impeachment, over lying about sex with a White House aide. George W. has been proven a liar about the reasons for taking us to war. Yet he stands before Congress asking for another 46 billion dollars to continue.

Two presidents from two political parties in two totally different times. In my over simplified way there is two totally different ethical point of views.

President Clinton served as president during on of the peace time periods of the United States. However his morals and ethics were questionable. One thing I have observed in my life is that during times of peace ethics are looked at under a bigger microscope.

President Bush was plunged into the largest terrorist attack on American soil in less than a year after taking office. Lying, and deceiving the American public about weapons of mass destruction is overlooked.

I guess social political climate does determine acceptable morals and ethics.

ABS, CBS, FOX, NBC - Examine the Evidence

2007-10-20T17:40:00.000-07:00

We are already well into the mud slinging, positioning of a presidential election. We should listen to what the good ole boys at the local coffee shop are saying about the current state our economy.

The concrete contractor is down to only 2 crew member beside himself. The painting contractor has just filed chapter 11. Craigs list is filled with people selling computers dirt cheap. Wages for the blue collar worker is $1 to $3 lower than a year ago.

All we hear from NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, and other news organizations low housing, and terrible storms. Otherwise they are painting as not so bad picture.

As the famous CSI, Gil Grissmon, says, "Examine the evidence". Look at is going on around you. The higher learning centers are reporting some interesting evidence. Take the look at the chart to the right from Fed Research. (Left click on the chart and examine the details.)

Cyber Crime Is Scarier Than Halloween

2007-10-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

This is the season where all those scary ghost stories are told, in the movies and on television. But I can tell you an even scarier story that is no story. It is about the thief of peoples identity.

It starts by the Jeff visiting a website that is offering a great deal on a new iPhone by Apple. After the purchase information is entered on the website, and the credit card is verified, the website when to a thank you page.

That person never received their iPhone. Their credit card was maxed out in less than a couple of hours. Before Jeff realized what had happen, several days had passed. The thieves where working on from another website.

This year the FBI reported that crimes like mention above have surpass the drug trade by $40 billion dollars per year. Now that is scary!

There is many solutions, but I recommend INVISUS

Are We Adding To Britney Spears Troubles

2007-10-19T03:07:00.000-07:00

Hours after losing child-visitation rights Thursday, the troubled pop star apparently ran over a photographer's foot with her car. Iggy may be in hiding, but the whole world has an opinion as to wheither to return Iggy or not. There is more on the news and daytime talk shows than there is about world affairs.

Britney Spears, Sandra Oh and other celebrities are hound by the C. Every turn any celebrity makes there is a lensman ready to take their picture. Good or bad their camera is poised to take a celebrities picture that we are more than will to see. Most of time the celebrities are just trying to be normal in an everyday world. It doesn't matter if it is a paper , television or internet tabloid.

Do some of these celebrities act out just to get more attention from the paparazzi? After all what better way to increase ones celebrity status.