I'm not superstitious, so I enjoy every Friday, including Friday the 13th. We're going out Sunday to buy a new car to replace our dead van. We've been getting by ok with a single vehicle, but our Subaru is rather old itself, and I wouldn't want to take a long trip to California, etc., in it. We're looking for a used car (a couple of years old). Cruise Control is a necessity, in my opinion. Driving for very long without it, my foot starts to get a cramp. Must be a sign of getting old.
Joy and I are going to see Taken tomorrow evening with Les & Keri. It will be fun having a double date again.
We're planning to make our reservations this weekend for both our California and Las Vegas trips, to lock in rates, flights, and cars. It looks like we'll be staying in the Stratosphere Hotel while we're in Vegas. We'll probably go to its Top of the World restaurant for our anniversary dinner, located in the top of the Stratosphere Tower, kind of like the Space Needle--but almost twice as as tall. We're planning to get there a little before sunset, and stay and watch the city lights come on down the strip.
We've added a day at Magic Mountain to our California vacation. Through AAA, we can get tickets for only $27 each, saving quite a bit of money. It will be fun to ride some world class roller coasters again. But, it will be a busy week.
We're kind of up in the air as far as our Grand Canyon trip. It would be nice to stay at a motel in Tusayan, Arizona (minutes from the park), but rooms there cost about $100 a night more than do rooms down in Williams (60 miles further south). So, Joy and I have to decide what's more important, time or money! :-)
Friday, March 13, 2009
Monday, March 09, 2009
Another week begins
Joy was over at Lincoln City with some ladies from our church. She had a great time, even though it rained, snowed, and hailed. Her favorite time was traveling there and back with our friend Keri. Even though Les & Keri are our best friends, we don't see them nearly as much as we'd like, so a chance for Joy to visit with Keri for several hours was fun for her. We've invited Les & Keri to meet us in Las Vegas for the end of our vacation down there this summer and go see Grand Canyon and Zion with them, along with an evening of strolling through the casinos in Las Vegas. It'd be a lot of fun to spend 4 days with them, away from home and the daily grind, enjoying nature and visiting.
I did some more vacation planning over the weekend. I'm going to try to have a mini-vacation with Joy once every month or so, even if it is just a weekend away, but at home [ship the kids off to friends' homes; they like doing that anyhow.]. A regular time, to keep us well connected with each other, laughing, dancing, kissing, teasing, pleasing, cuddling, snuggling, playing, and more together.
I went to see Taken on Saturday evening. It was the first movie that I've seen in quite a while that I'd consider purchasing on DVD. I'm looking forward to taking Joy to see it with me.
On Sunday morning, we changed to Daylight Saving Time. I wish they'd just leave the time alone! I like it staying light longer in the evening, though.
I did some more vacation planning over the weekend. I'm going to try to have a mini-vacation with Joy once every month or so, even if it is just a weekend away, but at home [ship the kids off to friends' homes; they like doing that anyhow.]. A regular time, to keep us well connected with each other, laughing, dancing, kissing, teasing, pleasing, cuddling, snuggling, playing, and more together.
I went to see Taken on Saturday evening. It was the first movie that I've seen in quite a while that I'd consider purchasing on DVD. I'm looking forward to taking Joy to see it with me.
On Sunday morning, we changed to Daylight Saving Time. I wish they'd just leave the time alone! I like it staying light longer in the evening, though.
Monday, March 02, 2009
Another month is beginning
It's already March, 2009. The year is going by pretty fast.
Next weekend, Joy is going to the coast for a women's retreat with some of her girl friends. It will be strange to sleep in an empty bed again for a couple of nights!
Yesterday, Joy and I sat down and made some tentative plans for summer time vacations. In June, we're planning to go to southern California--Disneyland and California Adventure, Universal Studios, San Diego Zoo, and Sea World for a family vacation with the boys. It will be a long drive there and back, but we should have a great time at these amusement parks and zoos.
In July, for our 2nd anniversary, we're talking of going to Las Vegas for a week. Sightsee in the casinos along the strip, see the fountains, go see some of the spectacular evening shows (e.g. Sirens of TI or Fantasy at the Luxor), take Joy out dancing [not that I'm any good!], etc. We'd also likely take day trips to Death Valley and the Grand Canyon, to see some of America's scenic wonders. Neither Joy or I are big into gambling, so we might spend $20 between us in the week for that--just shove it in a slot machine and play it out--and then move on to much more interesting ways to play in this destination for adults [at least for Joy and I!].
It will be nice to get pictures from some more areas to add to our online albums. Right now, all of the photos are from British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and Hawaii, not that those places are anything to complain about. Hopefully, we'll be able to add Nevada, California, and Arizona to our photographic history together.
Next weekend, Joy is going to the coast for a women's retreat with some of her girl friends. It will be strange to sleep in an empty bed again for a couple of nights!
Yesterday, Joy and I sat down and made some tentative plans for summer time vacations. In June, we're planning to go to southern California--Disneyland and California Adventure, Universal Studios, San Diego Zoo, and Sea World for a family vacation with the boys. It will be a long drive there and back, but we should have a great time at these amusement parks and zoos.
In July, for our 2nd anniversary, we're talking of going to Las Vegas for a week. Sightsee in the casinos along the strip, see the fountains, go see some of the spectacular evening shows (e.g. Sirens of TI or Fantasy at the Luxor), take Joy out dancing [not that I'm any good!], etc. We'd also likely take day trips to Death Valley and the Grand Canyon, to see some of America's scenic wonders. Neither Joy or I are big into gambling, so we might spend $20 between us in the week for that--just shove it in a slot machine and play it out--and then move on to much more interesting ways to play in this destination for adults [at least for Joy and I!].
It will be nice to get pictures from some more areas to add to our online albums. Right now, all of the photos are from British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and Hawaii, not that those places are anything to complain about. Hopefully, we'll be able to add Nevada, California, and Arizona to our photographic history together.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Fighting a cold
I've been fighting a nasty cold for the last few days. At least I can work from home, so it isn't using up my sick time. I have multimedia duty at PVC this weekend. Hopefully, by Saturday, I'll be over the sickness.
We may be going up to visit my folks, depending upon how my cold progresses.
We may be going up to visit my folks, depending upon how my cold progresses.
Monday, February 16, 2009
A Great Valentine's weekend
I had a great weekend with my wife, Joy! On Saturday morning, we took a Portland Spirit brunch cruise. We had good food and some interesting couples to visit with. It was cloudy and rainy in the morning [and it was even snowing as we drove to the boat dock], but by the end of the cruise, the sun had come out.
Saturday evening, we went to the Olive Garden for dinner. With it being Valentine's Day, we were expecting a wait, but when we checked in, they told us it'd be around an hour and a half wait. However, we didn't actually get seated until almost 2 hours and 15 minutes had elapsed. The food and the company were very good though.
Yesterday, Joy and I went to see The International. After the movie, we drove down the the Old Spaghetti Factory by the Willamette River and ate a good dinner.
To end the weekend, we watched An Officer and a Gentleman on DVD.
Now, it's back to work Monday, but that doesn't seem so bad after a lovely weekend.
Saturday evening, we went to the Olive Garden for dinner. With it being Valentine's Day, we were expecting a wait, but when we checked in, they told us it'd be around an hour and a half wait. However, we didn't actually get seated until almost 2 hours and 15 minutes had elapsed. The food and the company were very good though.
Yesterday, Joy and I went to see The International. After the movie, we drove down the the Old Spaghetti Factory by the Willamette River and ate a good dinner.
To end the weekend, we watched An Officer and a Gentleman on DVD.
Now, it's back to work Monday, but that doesn't seem so bad after a lovely weekend.
Monday, February 09, 2009
February is underway
It's already February 9. The year 2009 seems to be going by pretty fast!
We had a quiet weekend at home. We watched Uncle Buck, Old Yeller, and Savage Sam on Saturday. On Sunday, we went to eat at Sweet Tomatoes and then watched Grumpy Old Men and Grumpier Old Men.
It's coming up on Valentine's Day. It'll be a grimmer holiday for lots of people due to the layoffs and other economic issues.
Our old Ford Van has reached end-of-life. It needs a new head gasket, and that would cost more than it is worth. We'd hoped to keep it going for a few more months, but we'll need to start looking at another vehicle pretty soon.
We had a quiet weekend at home. We watched Uncle Buck, Old Yeller, and Savage Sam on Saturday. On Sunday, we went to eat at Sweet Tomatoes and then watched Grumpy Old Men and Grumpier Old Men.
It's coming up on Valentine's Day. It'll be a grimmer holiday for lots of people due to the layoffs and other economic issues.
Our old Ford Van has reached end-of-life. It needs a new head gasket, and that would cost more than it is worth. We'd hoped to keep it going for a few more months, but we'll need to start looking at another vehicle pretty soon.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Super Bowl Weekend
On Sunday, Super Bowl XLIII will be played in Tampa, Florida. We get together with a bunch of our friends to watch the game and have good-natured arguments about the various teams. The ladies tend to watch chick flicks in another room, while the men watch football.
I tend to cheer for the AFC team, but I've never liked the Pittsburgh Steelers, so this year, I'll be cheering for the Arizona Cardinals; go Cardinals!
I have multimedia duty at PVC for the weekend. Dr. Jiri Moskala, from the Adventist Theological Seminary will be doing a series, starting this evening and all day tomorrow. On Sunday morning, there's a funeral, so I'll be at church almost all weekend.
It's hard to believe that January 2009 is almost over already.
I tend to cheer for the AFC team, but I've never liked the Pittsburgh Steelers, so this year, I'll be cheering for the Arizona Cardinals; go Cardinals!
I have multimedia duty at PVC for the weekend. Dr. Jiri Moskala, from the Adventist Theological Seminary will be doing a series, starting this evening and all day tomorrow. On Sunday morning, there's a funeral, so I'll be at church almost all weekend.
It's hard to believe that January 2009 is almost over already.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
President Barack Obama
Though, I was at work, I had CNN.com's live feed of the inauguration running, listening and switching over periodically. President Obama's (that sounds so good) speech was good, calling on all Americans to become involved in turning around the economy. At shortly after 9:00 AM, even before the oath of office, the White House web page had already been updated to reflect the new American President.
I know that Mr. Obama won't be able to deliver on all of the sky-high expectations people have for him, I hope that we'll give him some time to work. It is great to have a President who can speak grammatically correct English.
I know that Mr. Obama won't be able to deliver on all of the sky-high expectations people have for him, I hope that we'll give him some time to work. It is great to have a President who can speak grammatically correct English.
Monday, January 12, 2009
A new phone.
It was a good weekend. On Saturday evening, we celebrated Christmas (a couple of weeks late due to snow!) with Joy's sisters and mom. We played games on the Wii and ate lots of good food.
My old Motorola phone broke on Saturday and Joy's keys weren't all working, so we went to T-Mobile yesterday. Joy got a purple Motorola flip phone. I got a G1 phone, using Google's Android operating system (based on Linux). It's kind of cool to be able open a terminal on a phone! I'm hoping to eventually put all of my music, etc. on it so I can leave my old PDA behind and carry around one less device, but we'll see.
My old Motorola phone broke on Saturday and Joy's keys weren't all working, so we went to T-Mobile yesterday. Joy got a purple Motorola flip phone. I got a G1 phone, using Google's Android operating system (based on Linux). It's kind of cool to be able open a terminal on a phone! I'm hoping to eventually put all of my music, etc. on it so I can leave my old PDA behind and carry around one less device, but we'll see.
Sunday, January 04, 2009
Monty Python Marathon
I'm watching three Monty Python movies with my friend John, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Life of Brian, and The Meaning of Life. They are good for a laugh. I got them for myself as a Christmas present as part of Monty Python's Holy Trinity.
Tomorrow, I go back to work for the first time since December 17. It will be the first 5 day work week since before Thanksgiving, so I'll have to get back into work mode.
Tomorrow, I go back to work for the first time since December 17. It will be the first 5 day work week since before Thanksgiving, so I'll have to get back into work mode.
Thursday, January 01, 2009
Happy New Year 2009
It is now 2009. Each year seems to go by faster and faster.
Last evening, we rang in the new year with a bunch of friends. We ate lots, drank soda and punch and toasted the new year with sparkling cider. We played a couple of group games, Apples to Apples and Encore. I liked Encore the best. In it, each team has to come up with songs with specific words or ideas, like dancing or feelings, and sing seven words of the song.
We took it easy today, watching Must Love Dogs and some Austin Powers movies.
Last evening, we rang in the new year with a bunch of friends. We ate lots, drank soda and punch and toasted the new year with sparkling cider. We played a couple of group games, Apples to Apples and Encore. I liked Encore the best. In it, each team has to come up with songs with specific words or ideas, like dancing or feelings, and sing seven words of the song.
We took it easy today, watching Must Love Dogs and some Austin Powers movies.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas!
We had a white Christmas here in Portland. The snow is starting to melt, but we still have several inches on the ground.
I got a digital photo frame, socks, slippers, jacket, and knives. Joy gave me some power tools, and a cool rolling tool chest to store and organize them.
We had plans to go to a party with some friends across town, but the weather has interfered with those plans, so we'll have a quiet evening at home.
John is playing some new games on the Wii. James is at work--a double shift.
I got a digital photo frame, socks, slippers, jacket, and knives. Joy gave me some power tools, and a cool rolling tool chest to store and organize them.
We had plans to go to a party with some friends across town, but the weather has interfered with those plans, so we'll have a quiet evening at home.
John is playing some new games on the Wii. James is at work--a double shift.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Four days until Christmas!
It's been a very snowy, winter weekend. We have about 6 inches of snow outside. Unfortunately, we're now having freezing rain, so that will make driving very treacherous. I'm off work for the year, but Joy still has to get to her job. We spent the day watching Christmas movies that we had recorded on our DVR. John and Joy also finished decorating the tree. Our house looks very festive!
All of my Christmas shopping--and wrapping--is already finished. I'm more excited to see the recipients of my presents open them then to open my own presents.
It's supposed to stay cold and snowy until Christmas. We might even still have a White Christmas for a change.
All of my Christmas shopping--and wrapping--is already finished. I'm more excited to see the recipients of my presents open them then to open my own presents.
It's supposed to stay cold and snowy until Christmas. We might even still have a White Christmas for a change.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
A Winter Wonderland
We went to the PAA Winter Concert on Saturday afternoon, then I went to watch the PAA girls play basketball against DeLa Salle. They played well, starting the second half with a 10 point run and their opponents never could catch up after that. Go Cougars!
We had a rare snowfall here in Portland on Sunday. I worked at home yesterday. Today, there is still some snow and ice on some of the streets, so I stayed home again. Hopefully, I'll be able to drive to Beaverton tomorrow for my last workday for 2008, but they're talking about more snow and/or freezing rain, so we'll see.
On Thursday, Joy and I are going to see The Christmas Sweater with our good friends Les and Keri. Christmas is next week, so Merry Christmas!
We had a rare snowfall here in Portland on Sunday. I worked at home yesterday. Today, there is still some snow and ice on some of the streets, so I stayed home again. Hopefully, I'll be able to drive to Beaverton tomorrow for my last workday for 2008, but they're talking about more snow and/or freezing rain, so we'll see.
On Thursday, Joy and I are going to see The Christmas Sweater with our good friends Les and Keri. Christmas is next week, so Merry Christmas!
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Another long weekend off
I had another 4 day weekend. On Friday evening, Joy and I went to the Oregon Zoo to see the Zoo Lights. It was impressive, as usual. This year, they've changed many of the lights to be LEDs, making brighter, but more energy efficient displays.
On Saturday morning, we went to OMSI to watch The Polar Express on their OMNIMAX dome. It was so large that it was like being too close to a TV.
Sunday, we went out in the rain and purchased our Christmas tree, a 6 foot noble fir. After getting the tree, we went out to eat at Calamity Jane's. Naturally, we ate too much, but only drank water, so we saved some calories that way.
Sunday evening, John had his first date, for the PAA Winter Banquet, so we spent the late afternoon getting him ready and taking him to the restaurant.
After today, I only have 6 more days to work. Then I'm off until January, 2009.
On Saturday morning, we went to OMSI to watch The Polar Express on their OMNIMAX dome. It was so large that it was like being too close to a TV.
Sunday, we went out in the rain and purchased our Christmas tree, a 6 foot noble fir. After getting the tree, we went out to eat at Calamity Jane's. Naturally, we ate too much, but only drank water, so we saved some calories that way.
Sunday evening, John had his first date, for the PAA Winter Banquet, so we spent the late afternoon getting him ready and taking him to the restaurant.
After today, I only have 6 more days to work. Then I'm off until January, 2009.
Monday, December 01, 2008
December 2008 has begun
It was a nice 4 day weekend. On Thanksgiving, we went up Vernonia to Joy's sister's house. We had a relaxing meal and a good visit.
Friday, Joy and James left the house at 5:30 for Black Friday shopping. I went out at about 8 and was home by about 9:30, getting the last few items on my Christmas list. Friday afternoon, we went to see Four Christmases, a cute holiday movie.
Saturday, I had multimedia duty at church. That evening, I watched the Ducks blow out the Beavers 65 to 38 in the Civil War Game at Corvallis. Go Ducks! This was the 1st football game that I've watched in HD on our 42" Toshiba LCD TV. I'd periodically switch back to the regular definition picture and the difference was amazing.
Yesterday, I went to help put up Christmas decorations at church and then we put up our outside decorations at home. Our house looks very festive now.
Last evening, I went with my friends Les and John to see the latest James Bond movie, Quantum of Solace. We were all disappointed in the movie. There was lots of action, but little plot. It's like they are trying to convert James Bond into Jason Bourne, but without the plot that Bourne brings along with it.
I have only 14 more days to work this year. Then I have vacation and holidays, coming back to work on January 5, 2009.
Friday, Joy and James left the house at 5:30 for Black Friday shopping. I went out at about 8 and was home by about 9:30, getting the last few items on my Christmas list. Friday afternoon, we went to see Four Christmases, a cute holiday movie.
Saturday, I had multimedia duty at church. That evening, I watched the Ducks blow out the Beavers 65 to 38 in the Civil War Game at Corvallis. Go Ducks! This was the 1st football game that I've watched in HD on our 42" Toshiba LCD TV. I'd periodically switch back to the regular definition picture and the difference was amazing.
Yesterday, I went to help put up Christmas decorations at church and then we put up our outside decorations at home. Our house looks very festive now.
Last evening, I went with my friends Les and John to see the latest James Bond movie, Quantum of Solace. We were all disappointed in the movie. There was lots of action, but little plot. It's like they are trying to convert James Bond into Jason Bourne, but without the plot that Bourne brings along with it.
I have only 14 more days to work this year. Then I have vacation and holidays, coming back to work on January 5, 2009.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Thanksgiving Week
It will be a short work week. For Thanksgiving, instead of our usual trip to visit with my Aunt & Uncle in Tillamook, we're going to Vernonia to visit Joy's sister Tammy and her family.
We'll come home on Thursday evening, so that Joy can get up to go Black Friday shopping. I don't envy her that! I don't deal well with crowds. I've done most of my Christmas shopping already just to avoid facing the mad rush of people.
Another big bank bailout happened, for Citigroup. I'm sure glad that I'm not going to be the president and have to figure out where the money for all of this is going to come from. Just the thought reminds me of the Onion announcement about Obama's election.
This weekend is the annual Civil War game between the University of Oregon and Oregon State. I'll be pulling for Oregon, obviously--go Ducks! The Beavers going to the Rose Bowl would be a good consolation prize if the Ducks were to lose on Saturday.
We'll come home on Thursday evening, so that Joy can get up to go Black Friday shopping. I don't envy her that! I don't deal well with crowds. I've done most of my Christmas shopping already just to avoid facing the mad rush of people.
Another big bank bailout happened, for Citigroup. I'm sure glad that I'm not going to be the president and have to figure out where the money for all of this is going to come from. Just the thought reminds me of the Onion announcement about Obama's election.
This weekend is the annual Civil War game between the University of Oregon and Oregon State. I'll be pulling for Oregon, obviously--go Ducks! The Beavers going to the Rose Bowl would be a good consolation prize if the Ducks were to lose on Saturday.
Monday, November 10, 2008
A very nice November weekend.
On Saturday, we just stayed home and relaxed, watching some DVD movies, The Ten Commandments, Ben Hur, Deep Impact, and in honor of Thanksgiving coming soon, we watched Planes, Trains & Automobiles.
Yesterday, Joy and I went to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert at the Rose Garden with our friends Les and Keri. We had much better seats than last years, so we were even closer to the action. They had more fire and flame displays, along with more lasers, including purple ones. It was a great performance. Afterwords, we went to eat dinner at The Old Spaghetti Factory by the Willamette River. It ended up being a late night, at least for me, but was lots of fun.
Yesterday, Joy and I went to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert at the Rose Garden with our friends Les and Keri. We had much better seats than last years, so we were even closer to the action. They had more fire and flame displays, along with more lasers, including purple ones. It was a great performance. Afterwords, we went to eat dinner at The Old Spaghetti Factory by the Willamette River. It ended up being a late night, at least for me, but was lots of fun.
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
President-elect Barack Obama
Yeah! It was such a relief last evening to see the networks calling Pennsylvania and then Ohio for Senator Barack Obama. At that point, I felt confident that 2000 and 2004 weren't going to be repeated, that the Democrats would get back to the White House.
John McCain's concession speech was gracious and moving, but I was a little disappointed when his audience booed when Senator McCain mentioned Obama's name. The contrast in Chicago when Obama mentioned McCain was telling; this very large, very partisan crowd cheered for their defeated opponent. This seemed to me to be one of the big differences between the candidates. McCain was trying to scare voters away from Obama, while Obama was filling people with hope.
My oldest daughter voted yesterday for the 1st time. She was so excited to be able to a part of history being made, with her first election actually helping to pick our next president. Hopefully, this enthusiasm will stay with her and the other new voters and they won't get disenchanted with America's political process.
John McCain's concession speech was gracious and moving, but I was a little disappointed when his audience booed when Senator McCain mentioned Obama's name. The contrast in Chicago when Obama mentioned McCain was telling; this very large, very partisan crowd cheered for their defeated opponent. This seemed to me to be one of the big differences between the candidates. McCain was trying to scare voters away from Obama, while Obama was filling people with hope.
My oldest daughter voted yesterday for the 1st time. She was so excited to be able to a part of history being made, with her first election actually helping to pick our next president. Hopefully, this enthusiasm will stay with her and the other new voters and they won't get disenchanted with America's political process.
Monday, November 03, 2008
Election Day is Tomorrow
It's Monday, November 3, 2008. Tomorrow, America will choose its President, many senators, and all congressman, along with a host of ballot initiatives and local races. I'll be glad to have the mud-slinging out of the way, at least for a few months; I wish that politicians would realize that these type of ads just turn of the voters, but every election, another crop of nastiness erupts. I'm also very disappointed about the blatent lies that supposed Christians are telling by forwarding email messages full of obviously false "facts" about another Christian, Obama.
This campaign has been way too long; the next one will probably be even longer! I expect that Sarah Palin will begin running for the 2012 GOP Presidential nomination a few days from now.
I just hope that all Americans will unite behind the new president, Obama or McCain, at least for a few months. We've been divided as a nation for way too many years.
I have to admit that I'll miss reading all of the political blogs, though.
There's already Christmas music available on a couple of our Comcast music channels, and next Sunday, we're going to hear the Trans-Siberian Orchestra with our friends Les & Keri.
This campaign has been way too long; the next one will probably be even longer! I expect that Sarah Palin will begin running for the 2012 GOP Presidential nomination a few days from now.
I just hope that all Americans will unite behind the new president, Obama or McCain, at least for a few months. We've been divided as a nation for way too many years.
I have to admit that I'll miss reading all of the political blogs, though.
There's already Christmas music available on a couple of our Comcast music channels, and next Sunday, we're going to hear the Trans-Siberian Orchestra with our friends Les & Keri.
Monday, October 27, 2008
A lovely October weekend
We went up to my parents' house in Glenoma, Washington for the weekend. On Saturday afternoon, we took a drive up to see the new Jackson Visitor Center at Mount Rainier National Park. The fall colors, yellow, orange, and red contrasted nicely with the dark evergreen trees. Approaching the park, we ran into clouds and fog, but just before arriving at Paradise, we got above the clouds into sunshine, and blue sky, with the grandeur of Mt. Rainier looming above us.
We picked some pears and kiwis to have fresh fruit to eat.
Friday will be Halloween, probably my least favorite holiday of the year. Celebrating witches, ghosts, etc., just bothers me as a Christian. We'll just stay home with the outside lights turned off.
One week from tomorrow is election day. I'm so tired of the negative attack ads, so I'll be glad for it to end, though I know that I'll be glued to the TV on November 4, with my laptop active, watching the election returns. Hopefully, President Obama will be a refreshing change from the current occupant of the White House, but he'll have his hands full with the economy, wars, and foreign crises. I don't know why anyone would want the job!
We picked some pears and kiwis to have fresh fruit to eat.
Friday will be Halloween, probably my least favorite holiday of the year. Celebrating witches, ghosts, etc., just bothers me as a Christian. We'll just stay home with the outside lights turned off.
One week from tomorrow is election day. I'm so tired of the negative attack ads, so I'll be glad for it to end, though I know that I'll be glued to the TV on November 4, with my laptop active, watching the election returns. Hopefully, President Obama will be a refreshing change from the current occupant of the White House, but he'll have his hands full with the economy, wars, and foreign crises. I don't know why anyone would want the job!
Monday, October 20, 2008
October is half over.
We spent yesterday organizing our garage. We bought some shelves at Costco allowing us to more easily store and stack boxes. We moved some boxes out of our house into the garage and they are still more easily accessible.
Tomorrow is my daughter Selita's last high school volleyball game. Their season hasn't be that good, but they did tie for first in a tournament at Walla Walla University.
Next weekend, we're going up to visit my parents in Glenoma, Washington.
Two weeks from tomorrow is the election. The mudslinging going on is appalling. I'll be glad to have it over with, at least for a couple of years.
Tomorrow is my daughter Selita's last high school volleyball game. Their season hasn't be that good, but they did tie for first in a tournament at Walla Walla University.
Next weekend, we're going up to visit my parents in Glenoma, Washington.
Two weeks from tomorrow is the election. The mudslinging going on is appalling. I'll be glad to have it over with, at least for a couple of years.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Another week is almost over
It's Friday, October 10. Stock prices on Wall Street continue to drop. Our friend Les was laid off from his job on Tuesday. I'm glad that I'm not real close to retirement; at the rate things are going, I'll have to wait until I'm 80!
I find it hard to believe that there are still one in four Americans who approve of the abysmal job that Bush is doing as President. Only a little over three more weeks and we'll have a new President-elect. Either of the major party candidates will be a big improvement over Bush, but I'm hoping that the polls are accurate and that Barack Obama will be our next president.
Tonight and tomorrow, Joy is attending a Women of Faith conference at the Rose Garden with some of her lady friends. James and I have multimedia duty tomorrow at Pleasant Valley Church.
On Sunday, we're going to do some more organizing of our garage.
I find it hard to believe that there are still one in four Americans who approve of the abysmal job that Bush is doing as President. Only a little over three more weeks and we'll have a new President-elect. Either of the major party candidates will be a big improvement over Bush, but I'm hoping that the polls are accurate and that Barack Obama will be our next president.
Tonight and tomorrow, Joy is attending a Women of Faith conference at the Rose Garden with some of her lady friends. James and I have multimedia duty tomorrow at Pleasant Valley Church.
On Sunday, we're going to do some more organizing of our garage.
Saturday, October 04, 2008
October is here
Last weekend, we went over to Pacific City on the beach to see my brother and sister-in-law, visiting from Tennessee. The weather was absolutely marvelous, with not a cloud in the sky. We were staying in house directly on the beach, taking a long walk on Saturday afternoon and having a fire on the beach.
This weekend, the weather is much different. It has been cloudy, windy and rainy, so far. Tomorrow is supposed to be nicer--hopefully. Joy and I are planning on going up to Bagby Hot Springs to soak in the hot water. That'll be our second hot water soak; last evening, we went to Portland Tub and Tan and spent an hour in a romantic pool of water.
Only one more month until the election. I can't wait until it's over with; I'm tired of all of the mud slinging that's going on. I feel sorry for whoever wins. Bush is leaving his successor a terrible situation, what with Iraq, the financial situation, etc. I'm still upset that I am having to help pay for the bad business decisions of multi-millionaires on Wall Street. I am glad that my congressman, Earl Blumenauer, and one of Oregon's senators, Ron Wyden, were brave enough to face their party leaders and the president and vote against the package. Already, today, I'm hearing rumors of more bailouts to follow. My children and grandchildren are going to have to pay for this bailout and the war in Iraq, and that's just plain wrong!
This weekend, the weather is much different. It has been cloudy, windy and rainy, so far. Tomorrow is supposed to be nicer--hopefully. Joy and I are planning on going up to Bagby Hot Springs to soak in the hot water. That'll be our second hot water soak; last evening, we went to Portland Tub and Tan and spent an hour in a romantic pool of water.
Only one more month until the election. I can't wait until it's over with; I'm tired of all of the mud slinging that's going on. I feel sorry for whoever wins. Bush is leaving his successor a terrible situation, what with Iraq, the financial situation, etc. I'm still upset that I am having to help pay for the bad business decisions of multi-millionaires on Wall Street. I am glad that my congressman, Earl Blumenauer, and one of Oregon's senators, Ron Wyden, were brave enough to face their party leaders and the president and vote against the package. Already, today, I'm hearing rumors of more bailouts to follow. My children and grandchildren are going to have to pay for this bailout and the war in Iraq, and that's just plain wrong!
Saturday, September 20, 2008
I'm up in Redmond, Washington
I'm in Redmond at the Redmond Marriott Town Center hotel for the Pacific Northwest Software Symposium. Yesterday's sessions were interesting. I learned much more about SOA and the Java Messaging Service (JMS). The speaker for my sessions was Mark Richards. The keynote speaker last night was Jared Richardson (Jared's blog). Jared's speech on Career 2.0 was humorous, but good. I'm going to have to follow some of his suggestions. I already do "sanity hacking", using PHP/MySQL/Python/etc. at home to keep up my skill set, and learn new skills, beyond the Java that I use at work. Today, I'm planning on attending seminars about the Google Web Toolkit taught by David Geary, and Java Regular Expressions by Neal Ford.
This afternoon, Joy is coming up here with our friends Les & Keri to go see The Phantom of the Opera at The Paramount Theatre. We're planning on going out to eat before hand, and it gives Joy an excuse to dress me up in a suit and tie. Oh, well, when Joy's happy, I'm happy!
This afternoon, Joy is coming up here with our friends Les & Keri to go see The Phantom of the Opera at The Paramount Theatre. We're planning on going out to eat before hand, and it gives Joy an excuse to dress me up in a suit and tie. Oh, well, when Joy's happy, I'm happy!
Monday, September 15, 2008
A new baby elephant
On Saturday, we went to Oregon Zoo to see Samudra, the baby elephant that was born on August 23. He was sleeping when we were there, but still cute. They have a new frog exhibit, which Joy liked, being the frog lover that she is.
On Saturday night, our son John was at a friend's house. He was planning on taking a fishing trip with them yesterday; however, he was out playing tag in the woods in the dark Saturday night and collided with a tree, ending up with a broken nose.
Yesterday, we had a 50th birthday party for our friend Les. He was totally surprised. Joy made him a birthday cake with a golf theme.
Next weekend, we're going to see The Phantom of the Opera with Les & Keri at the Paramount Theatre in Seattle. It should be a fun time.
On Saturday night, our son John was at a friend's house. He was planning on taking a fishing trip with them yesterday; however, he was out playing tag in the woods in the dark Saturday night and collided with a tree, ending up with a broken nose.
Yesterday, we had a 50th birthday party for our friend Les. He was totally surprised. Joy made him a birthday cake with a golf theme.
Next weekend, we're going to see The Phantom of the Opera with Les & Keri at the Paramount Theatre in Seattle. It should be a fun time.
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
September is here--August is gone
It was a quiet Labor Day weekend at home. We worked on organizing the garage, relaxed, and watched movies.
Friday evening, we watched Doctor Zhivago. It's been many years since I've seen it, so it was somewhat different than I remembered.
On Sunday evening, we went to Mt. Hood Theatre with our friends Les and Keri to watch a double feature, Hancock and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. Both were fun, if not exactly Oscar contenders.
Yesterday afternoon, we watched Airplane and The Italian Job on DVD. We've gotten several of these older movies recently at bargain prices.
I'm glad that Hurricane Gustav has turned out to be less destructive than it could have been, but I still feel sorry for people that have lost their home and possessions due to it. After Katrina, I'd have been moving to higher ground, myself!
We've been keeping up pretty good in our diet and workout regimen, going to the gym almost every day, even if just for the swimming pool and sauna.
Friday evening, we watched Doctor Zhivago. It's been many years since I've seen it, so it was somewhat different than I remembered.
On Sunday evening, we went to Mt. Hood Theatre with our friends Les and Keri to watch a double feature, Hancock and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. Both were fun, if not exactly Oscar contenders.
Yesterday afternoon, we watched Airplane and The Italian Job on DVD. We've gotten several of these older movies recently at bargain prices.
I'm glad that Hurricane Gustav has turned out to be less destructive than it could have been, but I still feel sorry for people that have lost their home and possessions due to it. After Katrina, I'd have been moving to higher ground, myself!
We've been keeping up pretty good in our diet and workout regimen, going to the gym almost every day, even if just for the swimming pool and sauna.
Friday, August 22, 2008
We've joined a fitness club
Yesterday, in an attempt for Joy and I to get in better shape, we joined the new LA Fitness club down the street from our house. It's only been open a little over a week. It has racquetball, swimming pool, weights, cardio equipment, a basketball court, classes, a hot tub, saunas, you name it. We plan to go there at least three times a week, so that we can get trimmer and healthier; since Joy won't be getting off work until about 5 in the afternoon, I may stop on my way home to exercise sometimes. Joy's first day at her new job was tiring for her, so we went and swam a couple of laps and soaked in the hot tub last evening.
On Wednesday, our youngest son, John began his freshman year at Portland Adventist Academy. We just hope that he really applies himself.
James and I have multimedia duty tomorrow at PVC.
On Wednesday, our youngest son, John began his freshman year at Portland Adventist Academy. We just hope that he really applies himself.
James and I have multimedia duty tomorrow at PVC.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Another hot stretch in Portland
For the last week (until this morning, actually), it has been pretty hot for Portland. Thursday through Saturday all got to 103 degrees Fahrenheit here. Yesterday it was about 90. Finally, today is much cooler, only in the 70s. On Saturday we went over to the coast to beat the heat. It was foggy and drizzly right at the beach, but that felt good after the hot temperatures here. The worst part was the traffic. It seemed like everyone from the valley had gone over the coast range to join us in escaping the heat!
Joy just got the news about a new job that she is going to be starting this Thursday. Her previous job at PAES ended due to insufficient children in her classroom. At Mt. Tabor, she'll be getting more hours plus benefits, a double blessing. Also, her primary job will be watching babies, her favorite age group.
We've been paying attention to Michael Phelps record run of gold medals at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China. Pretty awesome. I can't even imagine eating 12000 calories a day! He doesn't look like he has an ounce of fat on his body. Maybe I need to start swimming.
Yesterday, I had a Dr. Who marathon with my friend John. I record several episodes on my DVR and then we watch them together a couple of times a year. The last few shows were some of the best that I've ever watched.
Joy just got the news about a new job that she is going to be starting this Thursday. Her previous job at PAES ended due to insufficient children in her classroom. At Mt. Tabor, she'll be getting more hours plus benefits, a double blessing. Also, her primary job will be watching babies, her favorite age group.
We've been paying attention to Michael Phelps record run of gold medals at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China. Pretty awesome. I can't even imagine eating 12000 calories a day! He doesn't look like he has an ounce of fat on his body. Maybe I need to start swimming.
Yesterday, I had a Dr. Who marathon with my friend John. I record several episodes on my DVR and then we watch them together a couple of times a year. The last few shows were some of the best that I've ever watched.
Thursday, August 07, 2008
August already
Wow, it's already August 7. Time is sure flying.
John, our youngest son, is down in California, visiting with his cousin Justin. While he's there, they will go to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. He'll get to ride some real roller coasters! He'll fly back by himself on Southwest Airlines, another new experience for him.
This weekend, we're planning to go the Oregon Zoo and enjoy seeing the animals.
John, our youngest son, is down in California, visiting with his cousin Justin. While he's there, they will go to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. He'll get to ride some real roller coasters! He'll fly back by himself on Southwest Airlines, another new experience for him.
This weekend, we're planning to go the Oregon Zoo and enjoy seeing the animals.
Monday, July 28, 2008
We're all sore...
We had another busy weekend. On Saturday, we got together with Joy's family. Joy's Uncle Rod, who she hadn't seen since she was a little girl, was there visiting from Montana. Her sister Julie was up from California, and with her sisters from Vernonia and Vancouver, along with their kids, it was a full, loud, and lively meeting. Saturday evening, we went up to Vancouver so that I could work on Janie's computer. I installed a router and got everything working, while we watched My Mom's New Boyfriend.
Yesterday, we finished emptying our storage unit. That's why we're sore! We're still unpacking and organizing the boxes, but it is nice to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Hopefully, we won't need to move again for a long time!
Yesterday, we finished emptying our storage unit. That's why we're sore! We're still unpacking and organizing the boxes, but it is nice to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Hopefully, we won't need to move again for a long time!
Monday, July 21, 2008
A nice, but busy weekend
On Saturday, we went to Camp Meeting at the Gladstone Park Conference Center. It was a nice day, warm, but not hot. We ate lunch with our good friends Les & Keri and their children and grand children. We listened to inspirational music and good talks by Robert Quintana, the pastor of the Frederick, Maryland SDA Church. After the evening meeting, True!mprov had a performance that had everyone laughing hard.
Yesterday, we emptied most of our storage unit. We did enough that we should be completely out in a single U-Haul truck load next Sunday.
Yesterday, we emptied most of our storage unit. We did enough that we should be completely out in a single U-Haul truck load next Sunday.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Another Friday
It's been a short work week, after our mini-vacation last week. We're still unpacking boxes from our storage unit.
Tomorrow, we're going to the 2008 Oregon Camp Meeting at Gladstone to be with our friends and enjoy music and fellowship.
We're in the process of getting a kitten for the family.
Tomorrow, we're going to the 2008 Oregon Camp Meeting at Gladstone to be with our friends and enjoy music and fellowship.
We're in the process of getting a kitten for the family.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
A great mini-vacation
On Friday, Joy and I drove up to Anacortes, Washington to celebrate our first anniversary. After checking into our motel, the Cap Sante Inn, we went down to see Deception Pass. It was very picturesque, with the blue water and sky contrasting with the green of the trees and grass.
On Saturday morning, we boarded the Washington State Ferries MV Chelan, taking us from Anacortes through the beautiful San Juan Islands to Syndey, British Columbia. We took a shuttle to Butchart Gardens. We spent several hours wondering through the grounds, taking hundreds of pictures of the flowers, trees, and scenery. We took a double decker bus back to Sydney and did some shopping for an hour before going back to the ferry terminal. We took the evening ferry back to Anacortes stopping at Friday Harbor along the way. As we travelled, Mt. Baker glowed with the evening sun.
Sunday, we went up to North Cascades National Park, a two hour drive. Awesome mountains, forests, lakes, rivers and gorges surrounded us. For dinner, we went to the Swinomish Northern Lights Casino.
Yesterday, we drove back home, going up to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument along the way. We were tired, but happy when we got home.
On Saturday morning, we boarded the Washington State Ferries MV Chelan, taking us from Anacortes through the beautiful San Juan Islands to Syndey, British Columbia. We took a shuttle to Butchart Gardens. We spent several hours wondering through the grounds, taking hundreds of pictures of the flowers, trees, and scenery. We took a double decker bus back to Sydney and did some shopping for an hour before going back to the ferry terminal. We took the evening ferry back to Anacortes stopping at Friday Harbor along the way. As we travelled, Mt. Baker glowed with the evening sun.
Sunday, we went up to North Cascades National Park, a two hour drive. Awesome mountains, forests, lakes, rivers and gorges surrounded us. For dinner, we went to the Swinomish Northern Lights Casino.
Yesterday, we drove back home, going up to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument along the way. We were tired, but happy when we got home.
Monday, July 07, 2008
A Long Weekend Off
It was nice to have a three day weekend off. Friday, we went to Sellwood Park with a bunch of friends from our church. After getting home, John lit off fireworks in celebration of July 4. On Saturday we had a potluck lunch with the same group of friends. The weather was on the cool side, but still very enjoyable.
Yesterday, we moved several van loads of boxes from our storage unit into our house. We plan to move most of our boxes that way and then we should have a pretty simple move of the big items; probably a single truck load.
This is a short work week again--Yeah! Joy and I are going up to Anacortes and Victoria to celebrate our 1st anniversary July 11 - July 14.
Yesterday, we moved several van loads of boxes from our storage unit into our house. We plan to move most of our boxes that way and then we should have a pretty simple move of the big items; probably a single truck load.
This is a short work week again--Yeah! Joy and I are going up to Anacortes and Victoria to celebrate our 1st anniversary July 11 - July 14.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Last day of June
It is hard to believe that 2008 is half way over already! Time seems to be flying.
It was a very hot weekend for Portland. On Saturday, it got to 100 degrees here, which is much higher than our normal summer temperatures of the 80s. The forecast is for it to be more moderate through the next week. On Saturday evening, we watched The Other Boleyn Girl with our friends Les & Keri. It was an interesting, but not very historically accurate movie. Last night we watched Fools Gold, a cute movie.
Joy and I attended a credit repair seminar over the weekend by Jim Longacre, the creator of the recreditpair Credit Education Software. We're going to use the methods that we learned to improve our credit rating and hopefully be able to get a newer vehicle to replace our old Ford van and its 14 mpg.
This is a short work week, since Friday is July 4th.
It was a very hot weekend for Portland. On Saturday, it got to 100 degrees here, which is much higher than our normal summer temperatures of the 80s. The forecast is for it to be more moderate through the next week. On Saturday evening, we watched The Other Boleyn Girl with our friends Les & Keri. It was an interesting, but not very historically accurate movie. Last night we watched Fools Gold, a cute movie.
Joy and I attended a credit repair seminar over the weekend by Jim Longacre, the creator of the recreditpair Credit Education Software. We're going to use the methods that we learned to improve our credit rating and hopefully be able to get a newer vehicle to replace our old Ford van and its 14 mpg.
This is a short work week, since Friday is July 4th.
Monday, June 23, 2008
A nice weekend in Oregon.
James and I had Multimedia Duty Sabbath morning at PVC. There was a strawberry shortcake feed between 1st and 2nd services--Yummy! For the afternoon, we joined some friends from church in a picnic at Sellwood Park. It was comfortable under the trees, eating, visiting, and watching some baseball being played.
Yesterday, we did more unpacking, getting the kitchen, the office, and the living room into better shape. In the evening, we watched a couple of DVD movies on our new 42" Toshiba LCD TV; even without Blu-ray, the quality of picture is dramatically better. Jumper was exciting, but required a total suspension of disbelief, at least for me; of course, many movies have that effect to me. The Bucket List was a good, wholesome film that made me value life and relationships. Of the two, The Bucket List is the only one that I'd consider buying.
Yesterday, we did more unpacking, getting the kitchen, the office, and the living room into better shape. In the evening, we watched a couple of DVD movies on our new 42" Toshiba LCD TV; even without Blu-ray, the quality of picture is dramatically better. Jumper was exciting, but required a total suspension of disbelief, at least for me; of course, many movies have that effect to me. The Bucket List was a good, wholesome film that made me value life and relationships. Of the two, The Bucket List is the only one that I'd consider buying.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Finished with the move
We're all moved out of our apartment into our house. There are still lots of boxes to unpack, but it is nice to have the extra space to live in.
Yesterday morning, I watched Tiger Woods win the 2008 US Open playoff. Both players did well, but I've been a Tiger Woods fan since his first Master's victory, back in 1997.
Today, I participated in the Firefox 3 Download Day, trying to set a record for the most downloads in a 24 hour period. I've been using Firefox as my primary browser for years. The extra speed from version 3 is appreciated.
Yesterday morning, I watched Tiger Woods win the 2008 US Open playoff. Both players did well, but I've been a Tiger Woods fan since his first Master's victory, back in 1997.
Today, I participated in the Firefox 3 Download Day, trying to set a record for the most downloads in a 24 hour period. I've been using Firefox as my primary browser for years. The extra speed from version 3 is appreciated.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Father's Day Weekend
It's going to a busy, and not too fun, Father's Day. We're moving on Sunday into a rental house. It will be nice to have lots more room, but moving is on my top 10 worst list.
The last weekend has been busy with graduations. On Thursday, John graduated from 8th grade at PAES on Sunday, Vainiaku graduated from 12th grade at PAA. Now, John is a freshman at PAA, while Selita is a senior there.
Gas prices keep shooting up. At one of the stations that I drive past on the way to work, a gallon of gas went up 5 cents in the nine hours that I was at work. I know that I'm driving a lot less now than I had in the past!
The last weekend has been busy with graduations. On Thursday, John graduated from 8th grade at PAES on Sunday, Vainiaku graduated from 12th grade at PAA. Now, John is a freshman at PAA, while Selita is a senior there.
Gas prices keep shooting up. At one of the stations that I drive past on the way to work, a gallon of gas went up 5 cents in the nine hours that I was at work. I know that I'm driving a lot less now than I had in the past!
Monday, June 02, 2008
June is starting
It's going to a busy week. Thursday is both Joy's birthday and John's graduation day from Portland Adventist Elementary School. After John graduates, his 8th grade class is having two parties, lasting all night long! Because of all of this activity, we'll probably celebrate Joy's birthday on Friday.
On Sunday, Vainiaku will be graduating from Portland Adventist Academy. Knowing that I have a daughter going to college in the fall makes me feel old!
In between all of these items, we're also packing, getting ready to move into a rental house. It will only be about a mile from our apartment, so that part won't be too bad. It will be nice to have twice as much space to live in, along with a garage, so we won't have to keep our rented storage unit.
On Sunday, Vainiaku will be graduating from Portland Adventist Academy. Knowing that I have a daughter going to college in the fall makes me feel old!
In between all of these items, we're also packing, getting ready to move into a rental house. It will only be about a mile from our apartment, so that part won't be too bad. It will be nice to have twice as much space to live in, along with a garage, so we won't have to keep our rented storage unit.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Obama for President
On Sunday, I went down by the Willamette River in Portland to hear Barack Obama speak. He is a very charismatic speaker, getting the crowd of 75,000 very fired up. I hope that he'll be the Democratic nominee and the next President of the United States.
It was a very sunny day, and I got a little burned, but it was worth it. I got to shake hands with Steve Novick; I voted for him for the Oregon US Senate race, based upon reading his interview at slashdot.org.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
A busy couple of weeks
Between softball games, birthdays, etc., it's been a while since I've posted here.
Vainiaku and Selita have been playing PAA softball. They've won about half of their games. Their last games of the season--and V's last games as a high school student will be this afternoon at home against Corbett.
This last weekend, we had a surprise 40th birthday party for my sister-in-law, Tammy.
I'm in the process of setting up a used Compaq EVO D510 2GHZ computer that I got from ebay for only $41. I've installed the Ubuntu Hardy Heron on it. It will be used as a web server/proxy server/etc.
I've also added a new Linksys WRT54G-TM router with Tomato firmware as my primary router, with my older WRT54G connected to it using WDS to increase wifi coverage.
We found out this weekend that we have to move out of our apartment at the end of May. We'd planned to move this summer anyhow, but the timing is inconvenient, what with 8th grade and high school graduations, birthdays, etc. Oh, well, these things happen.
Vainiaku and Selita have been playing PAA softball. They've won about half of their games. Their last games of the season--and V's last games as a high school student will be this afternoon at home against Corbett.
This last weekend, we had a surprise 40th birthday party for my sister-in-law, Tammy.
I'm in the process of setting up a used Compaq EVO D510 2GHZ computer that I got from ebay for only $41. I've installed the Ubuntu Hardy Heron on it. It will be used as a web server/proxy server/etc.
I've also added a new Linksys WRT54G-TM router with Tomato firmware as my primary router, with my older WRT54G connected to it using WDS to increase wifi coverage.
We found out this weekend that we have to move out of our apartment at the end of May. We'd planned to move this summer anyhow, but the timing is inconvenient, what with 8th grade and high school graduations, birthdays, etc. Oh, well, these things happen.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
A very nice weekend
On Friday, I setup a used LinkSys WRT54g router using Tomato Firmware. This gives my router much functionality that isn't included in the stock LinkSys firmware, including SNMP and remote syslog, so that I can more readily monitor what is going across the wire. I got the router for only $30 at Stuff, which has pretty good used equipment.
It was a very nice weekend in Portland; it was actually hot out! On Saturday, we went to the Oregon Zoo. It was crowded, but we have an annual membership, so we got in easily, not having to wait in a very long line to pay for admission. The warm weather seemed to make even the animals lethargic.
Yesterday was our son John's 15th birthday. We ate out at Red Robin, and gave John an 8gb iPod nano for his present.
It was a very nice weekend in Portland; it was actually hot out! On Saturday, we went to the Oregon Zoo. It was crowded, but we have an annual membership, so we got in easily, not having to wait in a very long line to pay for admission. The warm weather seemed to make even the animals lethargic.
Yesterday was our son John's 15th birthday. We ate out at Red Robin, and gave John an 8gb iPod nano for his present.
Friday, April 04, 2008
April has started
TGIF!
We've had very nice weather for most of this week. It has been clear and cold in the morning, but sunny and in the 60s during the afternoon. Today is cloudy and rainy, but I guess we'll survive.
The PAA girls had a softball game last evening that they won by 11 runs. Go Cougars!
I've been busy at work learning about Nagios, Big Brother, and Hobbit, all suites that can be used to monitor system performance, uptime, etc.
We've had very nice weather for most of this week. It has been clear and cold in the morning, but sunny and in the 60s during the afternoon. Today is cloudy and rainy, but I guess we'll survive.
The PAA girls had a softball game last evening that they won by 11 runs. Go Cougars!
I've been busy at work learning about Nagios, Big Brother, and Hobbit, all suites that can be used to monitor system performance, uptime, etc.
Monday, March 31, 2008
March is at its end.
It was a nice weekend. On Saturday evening, we went up to Vancouver to work on Joy's sister's computer. She had a printer that she'd gotten for free that needed hooked up. They have Qwest DSL, but the HP driver package was almost 350 mb and with their slow DSL, it would have taken about 4 hours to download, so I actually drove back home, downloaded it via our cable modem and back to Vancouver in about 1 hour.
Yesterday, Joy made homemade cinnamon rolls--Yummy! :-)
Today, it's back to work Monday.
Yesterday, Joy made homemade cinnamon rolls--Yummy! :-)
Today, it's back to work Monday.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
More songs to listen to.
I just upgraded my Dell Axim PDA to have an 8 gb CompactFlash memory card, double the size of my earlier 4 gb version. Now I can have all of my songs from my notebook always with me and I still have lots of free space to grow into. [Fry's had a very good price on the card!] My old card is going to be put in Joy's PDA.
It was a nice, relaxing Easter weekend. March is rapidly coming to an end.
It was a nice, relaxing Easter weekend. March is rapidly coming to an end.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Another week is finished--March is half over
Time is still flying pretty fast. March is to the mid point. Next thing you know it'll be summer again!
Last evening, we went to Pleasant Valley Church to get pictures taken by Olan Mills for the church directory. Joy had us wear suits and ties; oh well, it only happens occasionally. I'm glad that I don't have to wear a tie to work. I don't think I could stand that.
Last evening, we went to Pleasant Valley Church to get pictures taken by Olan Mills for the church directory. Joy had us wear suits and ties; oh well, it only happens occasionally. I'm glad that I don't have to wear a tie to work. I don't think I could stand that.
Saturday, March 08, 2008
Get ready to Spring Forward
Reading about the snow that is still hitting the midwest, makes me glad that we live in Oregon. The crocuses and daffodils are already starting to blossom and I saw some trees in bloom, too. Tonight, we push the clock ahead an hour. I wish that the government would just leave DST in place all year long! This evening, Joy and I are going to Pleasant Valley Church for a fund raising dinner in support of the youth outreach program, Pipeline.
I finished my first full work of week at ARRIS in Beaverton. I'm hearing lots of new terms and acronyms that I need to learn.
I finished my first full work of week at ARRIS in Beaverton. I'm hearing lots of new terms and acronyms that I need to learn.
Friday, February 29, 2008
I finished my first day at ARRIS
I'm home from my first day at ARRIS in Beaverton. It is nice to be working again--and my benefits begin tomorrow, so that's good news, too, especially with having a family that needs medical coverage.
I ate lunch today at the Old Spaghetti Factory with some of my friends who are also Serena Alumnis. Most of us already have new jobs in the pipe, so our layoff hasn't had too much of a long term negative effect.
James and I have multimedia duty at Pleasant Valley Church tomorrow.
I ate lunch today at the Old Spaghetti Factory with some of my friends who are also Serena Alumnis. Most of us already have new jobs in the pipe, so our layoff hasn't had too much of a long term negative effect.
James and I have multimedia duty at Pleasant Valley Church tomorrow.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
I got a job!
I'll be starting on February 29 at Arris in Beaverton. I'll get to relax some this week. Looking for work, interviewing, etc., are very stressful, at least to me.
The PAA girls are over at Burns playing basketball tonight against the Hilanders. Go Cougars! The winners tonight move on to the state tournament.
The PAA girls are over at Burns playing basketball tonight against the Hilanders. Go Cougars! The winners tonight move on to the state tournament.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
PAA Girls won last night versus OES.
In their first playoff game, against Oregon Episcopal School, PAA won by 5 points in a hard fought basketball game. Hopefully, they'll continue the winning ways against Warrenton. Go Cougars.
I've had several phone interviews and some follow up interviews, but so far, no offers. I know that God will take care of me and my family.
I've had several phone interviews and some follow up interviews, but so far, no offers. I know that God will take care of me and my family.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Another week is done
On Tuesday, I had an interview with a company in downtown Portland. I think that it went well, but I'm always afraid to get my hopes up too high.
Thursday evening, I went over to Oregon Episcopal School to watch the PAA girls play. It was a good game, with PAA coming out on top. Tonight, PAA plays at home against Warrenton. If the Cougars win, they'll be in second place in their league.
Last night was the first meeting of Revelation Speaks Hope at the Oregon Convention Center. It was a good meeting with a good turnout.
Tomorrow, we're going over to a friend's house to watch the Super Bowl--at least the guys, anyhow. The girls are going to be watch chick flicks! I don't have a strong favorite between the Patriots and the Giants, but I'll probably cheer for New England, since they are the AFC team.
Thursday evening, I went over to Oregon Episcopal School to watch the PAA girls play. It was a good game, with PAA coming out on top. Tonight, PAA plays at home against Warrenton. If the Cougars win, they'll be in second place in their league.
Last night was the first meeting of Revelation Speaks Hope at the Oregon Convention Center. It was a good meeting with a good turnout.
Tomorrow, we're going over to a friend's house to watch the Super Bowl--at least the guys, anyhow. The girls are going to be watch chick flicks! I don't have a strong favorite between the Patriots and the Giants, but I'll probably cheer for New England, since they are the AFC team.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Another layoff :-(
Last Tuesday, my job at Serena Software, along with those of all of the co-workers in my development group [plus our neighbors in the happy pod], was offshored to India. It was a total surprise--and a very unpleasant one. On Friday, I had a phone interview with a company in downtown Portland. It seemed to go well, but it is always hard to tell. Oh, well, God will take care of us.
On Friday, Joy and I drove up to Multnomah Falls to see them with the ice around. It was very pretty--but cold.
On Friday, Joy and I drove up to Multnomah Falls to see them with the ice around. It was very pretty--but cold.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
A great basketball game!
Last evening, the PAA Cougar girls played a close, hard-fought game with the Catlin Gabel Eagles. It was back and forth the whole game. PAA trailed by one point with 6 seconds to go and we had the ball. My daughter was called for traveling, giving the Eagles the ball. Luckily for us, they threw the ball out-of-bounds, giving us one more chance. My daughter, Vainiaku, was under the basket with the ball, shooting and making the shot, as the buzzer rang to end the game with a win. Go Cougars!
Our good friends Les & Keri came to watch the game. They are new, proud grandparents!
Today, our son John is going up with his classmates from Portland Adventist Elementary School to Mt. Hood Meadows for a day of skiing. It should be a very nice up there. There is no new snow, but they have over 11 feet of snow at the base, so there shouldn't be any rocks showing!
Our good friends Les & Keri came to watch the game. They are new, proud grandparents!
Today, our son John is going up with his classmates from Portland Adventist Elementary School to Mt. Hood Meadows for a day of skiing. It should be a very nice up there. There is no new snow, but they have over 11 feet of snow at the base, so there shouldn't be any rocks showing!
Monday, January 14, 2008
A good weekend
Ron Halverson had the sermon on Sabbath, January . His topic was preparing, via prayer, for the upcoming Shawn Boonstra evangelistic series, Revelation Speaks Peace, to be held here in Portland at the Oregon Convention Center. On Sabbath afternoon, he had a follow-up meeting at the Ambridge Event Center to help us learn to be Prayer Warriors.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
An up and down week
The last week has been full of ups and downs. Last Thursday, a car that I owned several years ago came back to haunt my finances. I managed to get a loan against my 401k to be able to make ends meet, but it was still a traumatic experience. I've been riding TriMet to save some money. It takes much longer to get to and from work, though.
The PAA girls lost badly against Clatskanie last Thursday. The Tigers played man-to-man defense and the Cougars didn't cope too well. On Saturday evening, the Cougar hosted the Rainier Columbians. They led for a while, but at the end of the game, the Columbians out played us. Last evening, PAA hosted the Oregon Episcopal School Aardvarks. The game was very close through the first 3 quarters; in fact, it was tied up at the half. The Cougars broke the game open in the 4th quarter with some very good passing and inside scoring by Hannah King, and ended up winning by about 10 points. OES had a girl who scored 6 three pointers. Tomorrow evening, the Cougars are playing at Warrenton High School against the Warriors. I won't be able to attend this game, but hopefully, we will win again. On Saturday evening, PAA is playing at Riverdale High School against the Mavericks. I'm sure the girls will be tired after all of these games.
The video card on my HP Pavilion dv9330us notebook died on Christmas day. After talking with tech support and trying their suggestions, it was sent out to get repaired on January 2. HP was very prompt in getting it fixed. I had it delivered back on Monday, January 7. They had to replace the mainboard. It is working fine, now. While it was down, I was using an old Dell PIII/550 [running Windows 2000]. That computer was top of the line and very fast 10 years ago, but now it seems as slow as molasses. I'm glad to have my notebook back!
The PAA girls lost badly against Clatskanie last Thursday. The Tigers played man-to-man defense and the Cougars didn't cope too well. On Saturday evening, the Cougar hosted the Rainier Columbians. They led for a while, but at the end of the game, the Columbians out played us. Last evening, PAA hosted the Oregon Episcopal School Aardvarks. The game was very close through the first 3 quarters; in fact, it was tied up at the half. The Cougars broke the game open in the 4th quarter with some very good passing and inside scoring by Hannah King, and ended up winning by about 10 points. OES had a girl who scored 6 three pointers. Tomorrow evening, the Cougars are playing at Warrenton High School against the Warriors. I won't be able to attend this game, but hopefully, we will win again. On Saturday evening, PAA is playing at Riverdale High School against the Mavericks. I'm sure the girls will be tired after all of these games.
The video card on my HP Pavilion dv9330us notebook died on Christmas day. After talking with tech support and trying their suggestions, it was sent out to get repaired on January 2. HP was very prompt in getting it fixed. I had it delivered back on Monday, January 7. They had to replace the mainboard. It is working fine, now. While it was down, I was using an old Dell PIII/550 [running Windows 2000]. That computer was top of the line and very fast 10 years ago, but now it seems as slow as molasses. I'm glad to have my notebook back!
Thursday, January 03, 2008
Happy New Year--2008!
I had a long stretch off over the holidays, but never got around to updating my blog.
For Christmas, our family got a Nintendo Wii. It came bundled with Wii Sports, and we also purchased Wii Play with an extra remote. John got The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess for the Wii. We plan to buy Wii Fit when it is available here in the US. It is a lot of fun to play the sports games. Boxing, tennis, and baseball all make you work. After a round of boxing, I'm really sweating.
On Christmas, we drove up to Joy's sister's house in Vernonia. We could still see the high water mark on the houses from last months floods. We had a White Christmas for the first time in many years. It was lovely driving through the Coast Range with snowflakes falling and seeing the snow accumulating on the fir boughs!
Last weekend, we drove up to my parent's home in Glenoma, Washington. We had a lot of snow there, too. My folks are members of an RV club that has a swimming pool, sauna, and hot tub. It was neat to be swimming in a warm pool while looking out the window at the snow falling. I actually made a snow angel while just wearing my swimming suit! Brrrrrr!!!
New Years Eve, we celebrated with our good friends Les & Keri. We watched a couple of movies (I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry and Live Free or Die Hard), played with the Wii, and danced, before raising our goblets of Martinelli's sparkling cider.
Tonight, PAA will be playing the Clatskanie Tigers in basketball. Hopefully, the Cougars will start the year with a win.
For Christmas, our family got a Nintendo Wii. It came bundled with Wii Sports, and we also purchased Wii Play with an extra remote. John got The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess for the Wii. We plan to buy Wii Fit when it is available here in the US. It is a lot of fun to play the sports games. Boxing, tennis, and baseball all make you work. After a round of boxing, I'm really sweating.
On Christmas, we drove up to Joy's sister's house in Vernonia. We could still see the high water mark on the houses from last months floods. We had a White Christmas for the first time in many years. It was lovely driving through the Coast Range with snowflakes falling and seeing the snow accumulating on the fir boughs!
Last weekend, we drove up to my parent's home in Glenoma, Washington. We had a lot of snow there, too. My folks are members of an RV club that has a swimming pool, sauna, and hot tub. It was neat to be swimming in a warm pool while looking out the window at the snow falling. I actually made a snow angel while just wearing my swimming suit! Brrrrrr!!!
New Years Eve, we celebrated with our good friends Les & Keri. We watched a couple of movies (I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry and Live Free or Die Hard), played with the Wii, and danced, before raising our goblets of Martinelli's sparkling cider.
Tonight, PAA will be playing the Clatskanie Tigers in basketball. Hopefully, the Cougars will start the year with a win.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
It's been busy!
Friday evening, we went out to look at Christmas lights with our friends Les & Keri. Then Sunday afternoon, we went to the Keller Auditorium to see the Nutcracker Suite.
Last evening, the PAA girls played at Hockinson High School in Brush Prarie against the Hawks. PAA played hard, but pulled up a little short and tired at the end. Tonight, they drive over to the coast to play against the Nestucca High School Bobcats. I won't be able to make that game, though. This is their last game this season.
I work tomorrow and Friday, then I'm off for the rest of the year.
Last evening, the PAA girls played at Hockinson High School in Brush Prarie against the Hawks. PAA played hard, but pulled up a little short and tired at the end. Tonight, they drive over to the coast to play against the Nestucca High School Bobcats. I won't be able to make that game, though. This is their last game this season.
I work tomorrow and Friday, then I'm off for the rest of the year.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
The girls won!
The Cougars never trailed last night against Neah-Kah-Nie and won by almost 2-1. That was a nice turnaround from Monday's game.
We got our Christmas tree up last evening, so now we can start decorating it.
We got our Christmas tree up last evening, so now we can start decorating it.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Portland Christian won last night
The PC Royals were just too good for PAA. Kim Hill had lots of blocked shots...
Today PAA is going up to Vernonia to help clean up from last week's storm. Then, tonight they host the Neah-Kah-Nie Pirates. Hopefully, they'll bounce back after last night. They have another game on Thursday hosting the Vernonia Loggers [and having a canned food drive for the Vernonia families].
Tomorrow evening, the Alegria Choir is singing at The Grotto.
Oh, by the way, PAA lost last Thursday's game at Mark Morris, too. :-(
Today PAA is going up to Vernonia to help clean up from last week's storm. Then, tonight they host the Neah-Kah-Nie Pirates. Hopefully, they'll bounce back after last night. They have another game on Thursday hosting the Vernonia Loggers [and having a canned food drive for the Vernonia families].
Tomorrow evening, the Alegria Choir is singing at The Grotto.
Oh, by the way, PAA lost last Thursday's game at Mark Morris, too. :-(
Thursday, December 06, 2007
The PAA girls won their game on Tuesday
They were ahead substantially for the entire game with Corbett, and the second team played for half of the game.
This evening, they have an away game with the Mark Morris High School Monarchs (in Longview). We've not played them before, at least since I've been attending games. Hopefully, the Cougars will continue their good effort.
This evening, they have an away game with the Mark Morris High School Monarchs (in Longview). We've not played them before, at least since I've been attending games. Hopefully, the Cougars will continue their good effort.
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
It was a good weekend
At the Holiday Party, we won ten Regal Cinemas movie tickets and a $50 McManamins gift certificate.
The Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert was very impressive. They had lasers, flame, fog, and snow! My favorite song was Christmas Canon Rock, but I thoroughly enjoyed the whole thing. Afterwards, we went to Red Robin to eat with our friends John and Kelli.
Tonight, PAA plays Corbett Cardinals at home. Hopefully, they'll snap out of Saturday's loss to Salem Academy and come back strong. Go Cougars.
The Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert was very impressive. They had lasers, flame, fog, and snow! My favorite song was Christmas Canon Rock, but I thoroughly enjoyed the whole thing. Afterwards, we went to Red Robin to eat with our friends John and Kelli.
Tonight, PAA plays Corbett Cardinals at home. Hopefully, they'll snap out of Saturday's loss to Salem Academy and come back strong. Go Cougars.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
The holidays are here!
On Saturday evening, my company, Serena Software, is having its Holiday Party at The Crown Ballroom in downtown Portland, so I'll get to wear a tie to make Joy happy!
On Sunday afternoon, Joy and I are going to the Rose Garden for a Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert. I've heard some of their songs, and their performance is supposed to be great; the videos that I've seen on youtube.com reflect that.
On Sunday afternoon, Joy and I are going to the Rose Garden for a Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert. I've heard some of their songs, and their performance is supposed to be great; the videos that I've seen on youtube.com reflect that.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
A great Thanksgiving
For Thanksgiving, we went over to my Uncle Paul & Aunt Carolyn's home in Tillamook, Oregon. Unusually for November, there wasn't a cloud in the sky. We went and walked a couple of miles down the beach before dinner; maybe we burned off some of the extra calories! :-)
Joy got to ride a horse, which she really enjoyed.
Yesterday was black Friday--for shopping! I actually went to Staples--and waited outside for an hour just to get in the store. I think I'll leave the shopping to Joy next year!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
It's almost Thanksgiving
Another week has passed. Next Thursday, it is Thanksgiving. We're going to Tillamook for our annual family get together at my Aunt Carolyn's; lots of food and fun! We always watch Love That Bob "Thanksgiving in Joplin" (an old black & white comedy) and White Christmas.
Monday evening was Senior Recognition for PAA. Vainiaku looked beautiful as always...
Sabbath at Pleasant Valley Church, our best friends' daughter, Bethany, is getting married. Joy is going to bake the wedding cake.
Gas prices keep creeping upward. I wonder how high they are going to reach?
Monday evening was Senior Recognition for PAA. Vainiaku looked beautiful as always...
Sabbath at Pleasant Valley Church, our best friends' daughter, Bethany, is getting married. Joy is going to bake the wedding cake.
Gas prices keep creeping upward. I wonder how high they are going to reach?
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
It was a nice weekend in Portland.
A sunny November weekend in Portland, Oregon, is rather unusual. On Sunday, I took John downtown to Powell's City of Books. At first site, he thought that I'd exaggerated the size--until he got inside and needed a map. He was pretty impressed by the number of books they had. We' ve decided that we'll start going down there about once a month.
Sunday evening, Portland Adventist Elementary School had their Harvest Festival. It was fun--but noisy!
Last night we went to eat an authentic Mexican meal at our friend Alejandro's house. Mily's flan was delicious.
Sunday evening, Portland Adventist Elementary School had their Harvest Festival. It was fun--but noisy!
Last night we went to eat an authentic Mexican meal at our friend Alejandro's house. Mily's flan was delicious.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Another week has gone by
Joy has been having some chest pain and she had a heart stress-test/sonogram on Monday. Thank God that it showed no problems.
We've also been having problems with our van. It looks like we're going to at least need a new starter and may also need some transmission work. Oh well, that's life, I guess...
We've also been having problems with our van. It looks like we're going to at least need a new starter and may also need some transmission work. Oh well, that's life, I guess...
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
PAA lost to Rainier
It was bittersweet watching Vainiaku's last high school volleyball game yesterday evening in Rainier. I've been attending her games since about 5th grade! Oh, well, basketball season is getting started, and both Vainiaku and Selita are anxious for that.
It was a very beautiful day yesterday, sunny, with the temperature in the 70s. They are forecasting some rain for later today, though.
It was a very beautiful day yesterday, sunny, with the temperature in the 70s. They are forecasting some rain for later today, though.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Genealogy
I got a copy of our family tree from my Uncle Vic in New York that allowed me to extend my Grave's genealogy back to John Graves, born in England about 1605, a big jump! The document had been created by a great-aunt. Before this, on that side of my family, I could only get back to my dad's great grand-father. It was a time-consuming, but very interesting project.
The girls beat Riverdale on Thursday, V's last home volleyball game; I'll miss watching her play! They have an away game tomorrow against the Rainier Columbians.
I'm already looking forward to watching the PAA girls play basketball.
The girls beat Riverdale on Thursday, V's last home volleyball game; I'll miss watching her play! They have an away game tomorrow against the Rainier Columbians.
I'm already looking forward to watching the PAA girls play basketball.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Wow--it's been a week
Time flies when you're having fun, or so they say...
The PAA Girls Varsity Volleyball team lost their match at Catlin Gabel last week. Last night, they played OES at home and the Aardvarks won--again. I sound kind of like Forrest Gump. The Cougars' last home match is tomorrow evening against the Riverdale Mavericks. Hopefully, they'll win that one.
Vainiaku and several of her PAA classmates got to participate in the Topoff 4 disaster drill yesterday. They thought it was fun.
The PAA Girls Varsity Volleyball team lost their match at Catlin Gabel last week. Last night, they played OES at home and the Aardvarks won--again. I sound kind of like Forrest Gump. The Cougars' last home match is tomorrow evening against the Riverdale Mavericks. Hopefully, they'll win that one.
Vainiaku and several of her PAA classmates got to participate in the Topoff 4 disaster drill yesterday. They thought it was fun.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
PAA Varsity lost to the Pirates
For both the JV and Varsity matches, the games were evenly matched, frequently reaching scores of 23-22, before a win was finally reached. PAA JV won their match 2 games to 1, but varsity lost 3 games to 1. The girls have a game this evening at Catlin Gabel against the Eagles, but I won't be able to attend due to a Love and Respect marriage seminar Joy & I are attending at Pleasant Valley Church. Tomorrow morning, the girls are heading to Walla Walla University for a tournament. Joy & I may try going up on Saturday to watch the evening games.
It was a windy, rainy day at Rockaway Beach. Big waves were crashing onto the jetty as we drove past. It reminded me of typical coastal weather for November, not October.
It was a windy, rainy day at Rockaway Beach. Big waves were crashing onto the jetty as we drove past. It reminded me of typical coastal weather for November, not October.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Another Tuesday, another volleyball game
Today, the girls play a volleyball game at Neah-Kah-Nie High School (map). Hopefully, they'll have a better game against the Pirates than last Thursday! This means another late evening, probably getting back home around 10pm.
It has been busy at work--we're trying to get our next release out the door.
It has been busy at work--we're trying to get our next release out the door.
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Another Saturday
The girls lost their games at Warrenton. The Warriors seemed to play better as a team, with crisper passes, etc.
James & I had Multimedia duty at PVC again today. It went pretty smooth, once we figured out how to play MP4 files within EasyWorship.
We're planning on going to visit our good friends Les & Keri this evening and watch some videos.
Tomorrow, my friend John is coming over and we're going to watch several episodes of Dr. Who on our DVR.
James & I had Multimedia duty at PVC again today. It went pretty smooth, once we figured out how to play MP4 files within EasyWorship.
We're planning on going to visit our good friends Les & Keri this evening and watch some videos.
Tomorrow, my friend John is coming over and we're going to watch several episodes of Dr. Who on our DVR.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
The week is half over
Yesterday evening, I went and helped a friend with his computers.... One of them was terminal, but I helped him with another one...
Today, Joy gets to learn how to give me an allergy shot. Neither of us is particularly looking forward to that, I assure you...
Tomorrow, the girls play an away volleyball game against Warrenton Warriors (map). I'm going to carpool with Brian (their coach), since it is so far away. Go Cougars!
Today, Joy gets to learn how to give me an allergy shot. Neither of us is particularly looking forward to that, I assure you...
Tomorrow, the girls play an away volleyball game against Warrenton Warriors (map). I'm going to carpool with Brian (their coach), since it is so far away. Go Cougars!
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
No game today
It's Tuesday, but there isn't a volleyball game today, so it seems kind of strange.
Joy has class this evening at Marylhurst University, so she won't be home until after I'm asleep... :-(
Joy has class this evening at Marylhurst University, so she won't be home until after I'm asleep... :-(
Monday, October 01, 2007
A rainy Monday in Oregon
I survived my surgery--although it certainly wasn't enjoyable!
I had Multimedia duty at church on Sabbath--and Saturday night, so I didn't get as much rest as I should have. So, yesterday, I spent most of the day relaxing.
It was wet driving in to work this morning. There was an accident just in front of me coming out of the tunnels onto west bound Sunset Highway, but I navigated it safely.
It's back to work time!
I had Multimedia duty at church on Sabbath--and Saturday night, so I didn't get as much rest as I should have. So, yesterday, I spent most of the day relaxing.
It was wet driving in to work this morning. There was an accident just in front of me coming out of the tunnels onto west bound Sunset Highway, but I navigated it safely.
It's back to work time!
Friday, September 28, 2007
I had a vasectomy
This morning, I had a vasectomy. I was nervous before and having a needle poked into my scrotum wasn't very enjoyable! But, the thought of trying to teach someone to drive when I'm 67 just doesn't appeal to me, so I went through with it. So far, the pain hasn't been too bad.
I have multimedia duty tomorrow at PVC, including coverage tomorrow evening for the Out of Thin Air net meeting. Hopefully, since I'll just be sitting, I'll be ok.
It's supposed to rain all weekend, so I'll probably get lots of rest.
I have multimedia duty tomorrow at PVC, including coverage tomorrow evening for the Out of Thin Air net meeting. Hopefully, since I'll just be sitting, I'll be ok.
It's supposed to rain all weekend, so I'll probably get lots of rest.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
The Cougars won last evening
Both the JV and Varsity Cougars Volleyball teams won last night at Riverdale High School. Neither of the teams lost a game in their matches, despite some unsportsmanlike behavior from some of the Riverdale boys. The Riverdale coach finally had to tell them to stop their rudeness.
Tomorrow, they play at home against the Vernonia Loggers, another strong opponent.
Yesterday, I got my new CPAP machine, a ResMed S8 Elite. It is much smaller than my trial unit, which is nice. I'm having a problem with the humidifier, though. Hopefully that will be easy to cure.
Tomorrow, they play at home against the Vernonia Loggers, another strong opponent.
Yesterday, I got my new CPAP machine, a ResMed S8 Elite. It is much smaller than my trial unit, which is nice. I'm having a problem with the humidifier, though. Hopefully that will be easy to cure.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Bagby Hot Springs!
Yesterday morning, we watched Wild Hogs on DVD--a very funny movie, by the way. Then, for the afternoon we went up to Bagby Hot Springs. The drive up along the Clackamas River was beautiful. It was a brisk day hiking the 1 1/2 miles each way through the woods, but the nice, hot water felt wonderful. There were friendly people there visiting with each other. Joy & I are already talking about going up there again soon.
Anyhow, I'm back at work on a Monday. Tomorrow, I go in to get my permanent CPAP machine. It is supposed to be much more compact than the loaner that I'm currently using. After my appointment, I come back across town to watch the PAA girls play the Riverdale Mavericks at volleyball. Go Cougars!
Anyhow, I'm back at work on a Monday. Tomorrow, I go in to get my permanent CPAP machine. It is supposed to be much more compact than the loaner that I'm currently using. After my appointment, I come back across town to watch the PAA girls play the Riverdale Mavericks at volleyball. Go Cougars!
Sunday, September 23, 2007
A nice Saturday
Yesterday, we drove up and took the Mt. Hood Loop. It was lovely going up the gorge on I-84. We stopped at Panorama Point (near Hood River) and took several photographs, including the one I'm using as the album cover for my Mt. Hood Album. We continued up Oregon 35, stopping to see Sahalie Falls. I've been to the Sahalie Falls on the McKenzie River up from Eugene, but hadn't stopped to see the Hood River version before.
We took a side road to see Trillium Lake. Unfortunately, at the time we were there, Mt. Hood was obscured by clouds. We'll have to go back again!
Today, we're planning on driving up to Bagby Hot Springs (near Estacada).
We took a side road to see Trillium Lake. Unfortunately, at the time we were there, Mt. Hood was obscured by clouds. We'll have to go back again!
Today, we're planning on driving up to Bagby Hot Springs (near Estacada).
Friday, September 21, 2007
TGIF!
Last evening, the PAA Cougar girls battled hard, but Rainier was just a little bit better. There were many good volleys and much fan enthusiasm!
I'm looking forward to a nice weekend. It is Joy & I's 2nd "meeting" anniversary. Our van just had $650 worth of repairs, so we're just going to stay at home and do some day trips to save some money.
I'm looking forward to a nice weekend. It is Joy & I's 2nd "meeting" anniversary. Our van just had $650 worth of repairs, so we're just going to stay at home and do some day trips to save some money.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
The girls lost on Tuesday
OES played well (as usual) on Tuesday. Our PAA Cougar girls played hard, but just didn't have enough to win against the Aardvarks. Tonight, they play the Rainier High School Columbians at home. Hopefully, they'll get back on the winning side.
Yesterday, James and I were on our way to a Multimedia meeting at Pleasant Valley, when all of a sudden, the car just died. I called Joy to come get us, then got on the phone with AAA. While I was talking with AAA, Joy just happened to try jump starting it, and amazingly, it worked. There was power for the radio, etc., so I didn't even thing about the battery. After driving home and shutting off the engine, it failed to even click, so we went out to Walmart and purchased a new battery.
This afternoon, Joy and I are going to pick up our new glasses. Maybe we'll be able to see again!
Yesterday, James and I were on our way to a Multimedia meeting at Pleasant Valley, when all of a sudden, the car just died. I called Joy to come get us, then got on the phone with AAA. While I was talking with AAA, Joy just happened to try jump starting it, and amazingly, it worked. There was power for the radio, etc., so I didn't even thing about the battery. After driving home and shutting off the engine, it failed to even click, so we went out to Walmart and purchased a new battery.
This afternoon, Joy and I are going to pick up our new glasses. Maybe we'll be able to see again!
Monday, September 17, 2007
It rained yesterday
Our plans to go up to Mt. Hood didn't pan out due to the weather. The thought of going down the mountain on a sled in the rain on a winding concrete slide didn't appeal to us. Instead we went to the Family Fun Center in Wilsonville. For six hours, we played miniature golf, drove go carts, and played laser tag. I'd never tried laser tag before; it was a lot of fun.
Monday is here and it's back to work. At least I'm over my flu!
Monday is here and it's back to work. At least I'm over my flu!
Saturday, September 15, 2007
It's Sabbath!
I got some kind of flu on Thursday. I left work early that day and spent yesterday mostly in bed. Last evening, we went to Romano's Macaroni Grill to celebrate James' admission to MHCC.
Joy and I made it to church at Pleasant Valley Church; the sermon this morning by Pastor Cory was very appropriate.
Tomorrow we're planning to go up to Mt. Hood Ski Bowl and ride the Alpine Slide to celebrate James' 19th birthday.
Joy and I made it to church at Pleasant Valley Church; the sermon this morning by Pastor Cory was very appropriate.
Tomorrow we're planning to go up to Mt. Hood Ski Bowl and ride the Alpine Slide to celebrate James' 19th birthday.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
PAA won last night
Both the PAA JV and Varsity Volleyball teams won last night at home against Catlin Gabel. The Eagles would rally and get close, but each time, the Cougars would pull away with a win. The girls' next game is Tuesday at Oregon Episcopal School, one of our traditional rivals--and the Aardvarks are usually very good!
I woke up this morning feeling like I got hit by a truck--diarrhea, aches, etc. I hope this isn't a sign of getting old...
James is registered at Mt. Hood Community College. We're going to go out and celebrate this evening!
I woke up this morning feeling like I got hit by a truck--diarrhea, aches, etc. I hope this isn't a sign of getting old...
James is registered at Mt. Hood Community College. We're going to go out and celebrate this evening!
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
PAA Varsity Girls lost their first game
My daughters, Vainiaku and Selita, play on the PAA Cougars Varsity Volleyball team. PAA played a match against the Clatskanie Tigers last evening. The PAA JV Girls won their match 2-0, but the Varsity girls lost 3-0. Oh well, it was the first match of the season, so they should improve. They have another match today against the Catlin Gabel Eagles.
I am usually a line judge for PAA volleyball games.
I am usually a line judge for PAA volleyball games.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
9/11--Six years later, another Tuesday
On Tuesday, September 11, 2001, I had the day off of work to go on a field trip to The Maize at the Pumpkin Patch on Sauvie Island, with my youngest daughter, Selita. It was a very clear day (much like today, by the way), but I turned on the TV to watch the Weather Channel to get the forecast. They had a scrolling headline announcing that a plane had crashed into one of the World Trade Center towers. My first thought was that it was some kind of freak accident. I changed over to CNN to watch the coverage about the time the second tower was struck--and I immediately thought of Al Qaeda. I was glued to the TV until we had to leave for the school to start the field trip. While out on the island, a couple of fighter jets flew over, and Selita asked me if they were good planes or bad planes.
That evening, I was teaching a database class at the University of Phoenix. One of my students worked for Boeing in Gresham. He was very shook up, seeing their planes turned into guided missiles.
We lived in the flight path for Portland International Airport, and were used to seeing planes frequently out our front window. It was strange to have none in the sky for several days.
My heart still goes out to the heroic firefighters and policemen that risked--and lost--their lives to rescue others. This video still brings tears to my eyes (words).
That evening, I was teaching a database class at the University of Phoenix. One of my students worked for Boeing in Gresham. He was very shook up, seeing their planes turned into guided missiles.
We lived in the flight path for Portland International Airport, and were used to seeing planes frequently out our front window. It was strange to have none in the sky for several days.
My heart still goes out to the heroic firefighters and policemen that risked--and lost--their lives to rescue others. This video still brings tears to my eyes (words).
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
John 15:13.
John 15:13.
Sunday, September 09, 2007
A nice weekend
We're up at my parents' home in Glenoma, Washington for the weekend. We drove up Friday evening. When we got here, the stars were out, shining brightly.
Yesterday, after church, we drove up to Mt. Rainier National Park and took lots of pictures (they can be seen on my Picasa Web album).
This afternoon, we're going to a friend's wedding in Woodland, Washington, then heading back home.
Yesterday, after church, we drove up to Mt. Rainier National Park and took lots of pictures (they can be seen on my Picasa Web album).
This afternoon, we're going to a friend's wedding in Woodland, Washington, then heading back home.
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
The week is half over already
It is nice to have a 4 day work week. Only 2 days done at work, but only 2 days left! I can't complain about that!
Apple has announced their new touch screen iPods... They are finally getting interesting to me, as a non-Mac person (at least lately). If my Dell Axim ever dies, I'll probably go the iPod route, assuming that it can handle contacts and calendars...
Apple has announced their new touch screen iPods... They are finally getting interesting to me, as a non-Mac person (at least lately). If my Dell Axim ever dies, I'll probably go the iPod route, assuming that it can handle contacts and calendars...
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Our labors on Labor Day
Yesterday, we did a lot of school shopping. We started out to buy a scooter for John to use to get from Portland Adventist Elementary School to the Tri-Met bus. We had to go to 7 stores before we found one at WalMart, a Razor Cruiser Scooter, that would last him for a year or so.
Then last evening, I went out with James to help him pick out a notebook for college. We ended up at OfficeMax getting an Acer Aspire 5610, with Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium on it. He was wanting a bigger, better notebook, but that should do him fine to get through college.
I don't particularly care for shopping, so I was glad to get it finished.
It was raining when I woke up this morning, a change from the beautiful weather over the weekend. Oh well, they'd predicted rain yesterday!
Then last evening, I went out with James to help him pick out a notebook for college. We ended up at OfficeMax getting an Acer Aspire 5610, with Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium on it. He was wanting a bigger, better notebook, but that should do him fine to get through college.
I don't particularly care for shopping, so I was glad to get it finished.
It was raining when I woke up this morning, a change from the beautiful weather over the weekend. Oh well, they'd predicted rain yesterday!
Sunday, September 02, 2007
A nice day on Mt. Hood
Yesterday, we drove up through the Columbia Gorge to Hood River, Oregon, stopping at the Mitchell Point Overlook, which we'd not seen before. From there we went up to Lost Lake, driving through orchards loaded with pears and apples; we'll have to go up there again in a few weeks and get some fresh fruit! On the drive, Mt. Hood was in front of us, and Mt. Adams was behind us.
We had a lovely 3 mile hike around the beautiful lake, seeing Mt. Hood across the peaceful water, snacking on wild blue berries.
We drove back over Lolo Pass to Sandy, where we ate dinner at Calamity Jane's Hamburger Parlour Restaurant. James ordered a 2/3 pound burger and he claims that he could have eaten their 1 pounder, but he was groaning when he finished his! The rest of us were full after eating their 1/3 pound sandwiches. John couldn't finish his chocolate milk shake.
For pictures from yesterday, see my Columbia Gorge, Lost Lake, and Mt. Hood albums on Picasa Web.
This afternoon, we're going up to Vernonia to visit Joy's sister, Tammy, and her family.
We had a lovely 3 mile hike around the beautiful lake, seeing Mt. Hood across the peaceful water, snacking on wild blue berries.
We drove back over Lolo Pass to Sandy, where we ate dinner at Calamity Jane's Hamburger Parlour Restaurant. James ordered a 2/3 pound burger and he claims that he could have eaten their 1 pounder, but he was groaning when he finished his! The rest of us were full after eating their 1/3 pound sandwiches. John couldn't finish his chocolate milk shake.
For pictures from yesterday, see my Columbia Gorge, Lost Lake, and Mt. Hood albums on Picasa Web.
This afternoon, we're going up to Vernonia to visit Joy's sister, Tammy, and her family.
Saturday, September 01, 2007
It's Sabbath
It was a long week, somehow. I'm glad that the weekend is starting. I've been adding more entries to my biography. Everything I think of make me think of something else.
I woke up early this morning to see a meteor shower, but didn't see a one....
We're probably going up to Lost Lake today and maybe Mt. Hood Ski Bowl to ride the alpine slide.
I woke up early this morning to see a meteor shower, but didn't see a one....
We're probably going up to Lost Lake today and maybe Mt. Hood Ski Bowl to ride the alpine slide.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
The week is almost over!
It is Thursday evening. I'm still tired; I think it's because of the lunar eclipse the other night.... I'm not as young as I used to be :-) I'm looking forward to having a 3 day weekend off--for Labor Day.
I've been working on fleshing out my biography. I keep coming up with new items to remember. My brother Jimmy sent me his contributions.
I've been working on fleshing out my biography. I keep coming up with new items to remember. My brother Jimmy sent me his contributions.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Childhood memories
Seeing the eclipse made me remember the 1st eclipse that I saw (or at least remember seeing). That got me started in thinking about my past--childhood, teen years, college, etc.
I've started writing out my memories, schools, etc. so that this information will be documented. I just wish that I had this kind of information from my grandparents to put into my Family Tree Maker genealogy database. I'm going to try getting this kind of information from my parents, aunts, and uncles, so at least the next generation will have this available, too.
I've been using Google Docs & Spreadsheets to enter this information. It is nice to be able to work on this anywhere that has web access available. I am also tying the cities and schools into Google Maps to show where they are located. I'm going to investigate getting some of my old slides scanned into digital photographs so that I can add these, too.
I've started writing out my memories, schools, etc. so that this information will be documented. I just wish that I had this kind of information from my grandparents to put into my Family Tree Maker genealogy database. I'm going to try getting this kind of information from my parents, aunts, and uncles, so at least the next generation will have this available, too.
I've been using Google Docs & Spreadsheets to enter this information. It is nice to be able to work on this anywhere that has web access available. I am also tying the cities and schools into Google Maps to show where they are located. I'm going to investigate getting some of my old slides scanned into digital photographs so that I can add these, too.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
A total lunar eclipse
We got up at about 2:30 to see the lunar eclipse. I got out my Meade 4.5" Newtonian Reflector Telescope and we looked at the moon through it.
Of course, now, I'm tired and need a nap.
Of course, now, I'm tired and need a nap.
Monday, August 27, 2007
A busy Sunday
We spent most of the day cleaning up our kitchen. We finally got to unpack our new Cutco knives and put away the contents of the boxes that we moved from my apartment. Last evening, we went to the Regal Division Street theater, the one where James works, to watch Rush Hour 3. It was a good, funny way to end a busy day. Jackie Chan does such a good job in these films.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
A trip to the coast
Yesterday we took a drive to the Oregon coast near Tillamook. We went along the Three Capes Scenic Drive. It wasn't Hawai'i, but it was still beautiful.
Friday, August 24, 2007
A new bed
Joy and I got our new Select Comfort Sleep Number 5000 bed on Wednesday. It was a little complicated to get set up, partly because one set of the instructions was wrong. It is very nice to have individual controls for hardness. Joy likes a very soft mattress, while I prefer a firmer one, so this way we can both be happy.
Vainiaku, a senior, and Selita, a junior, started school at Portland Adventist Academy yesterday. John starts 8th grade at Portland Adventist Elementary School on Monday. James will be starting his freshman year at Mt. Hood Community College in September.
Vainiaku, a senior, and Selita, a junior, started school at Portland Adventist Academy yesterday. John starts 8th grade at Portland Adventist Elementary School on Monday. James will be starting his freshman year at Mt. Hood Community College in September.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Installing Squid
I spent last evening installing Squid, an open-source caching proxy for the Web. I am attempting to filter out porn, spyware, warez, etc., from my son's computer. I think I finally have it working, after downloading a blacklist from SquidGuard. I couldn't get SquidGuard to compile under Win2K/Cygwin, so I wrote a quick and dirty perl script to convert the blacklist urls and domains into regular expressions.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
It's been a long time
Since my last post, a lot has happened.
On July 14, 2007, I got married to Joy Halleson. We went to Hawai'i for our honeymoon!
I'll try doing better at keeping up with this.
On July 14, 2007, I got married to Joy Halleson. We went to Hawai'i for our honeymoon!
I'll try doing better at keeping up with this.
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