How It All Began

Subscribers:
     I've heard your cries from the rooftops - from the nests on the ledges, to the dormers and downspouts - I've listened to your entreats. Amidst my despair and wallowing, I've been touched by the outpouring of love, sympathy and affection that was engendered by my last missive. I'm back; better & more full of myself than ever!

     Introspection has long been a valuable component of the healing process. Fortunately, I have the most interesting of specimens with which to work. However, it was during this time that I realized that I have done you, dear students, the gravest of injustices. I have failed to educate you on the most rudimentary of topics - one which I have been repeatedly asked to clarify. So, as briefly as my cacophonic predilection will permit, allow me to finally address the issue that has so vexed you all.

The Legend Of Speed Brisco

(cue the Marty Robbins music)

Chapter 1: Humble Beginnings

     I became self-aware earlier than most; this, not surprisingly, the result of countless hours spent gazing into a reflecting pool near my childhood home. We were a poor, yet gifted lot, blessed with substantial talent, wit and charm. Rising quickly through the familial ranks, I developed a clear sense that I was a disturbingly different child special. Naturally, I parlayed this into remarkable scholastic and business success, and a model domestic life. My horizon was endless.

Chapter 2: The Revelation

     Late one evening, during a trip down South, the spark was lit! Yes, I was superior in nearly every way to those fortunate few I deigned associate with, but - to whom much is given, much is expected (rough interpretation of Luke 12:48). Given that even I cannot bend the rules of the universe to appropriate more than 24 hours in a day, it occurred to me that I could, however, develop multiple versions of myself - thereby serving to align the skewed supply and demand - for me - that existed. At the time, cloning was in its infancy and, in addition to the moral implications, I wasn't keen on the name Dolly; so that was not an option. Of course the solution was to create/invent a new/additional version of myself; it came in a flash.

Chapter 3: A Star Is Born

     As we rode aimlessly that late February evening, enjoying the gorgeous frosty view, my gaze fixed on a light of the Mother Ship's starboard bow; faint at first, it grew clearer the closer we drew. It was a sign that, though festooned in neon, advertised a humble business - the nature of which I've never been drawn to investigate. Regardless, the following is a link for that which birthed your beloved author:
        http://www.yellowpages.com/ashland-va/mip/speed-briscoe-auto-truck-stop-inc-2581067

Epilogue:

     Sadly, I fear that my co-opting of this name has resulted in popularity that far outstrips that of the business that inspired this iteration of yours truly. Since then, I've incorporated others (Tommy Geronimo, et al), but none have achieved the fame, acceptance and high regard accorded to Speed. I suspect this will remain so to the end of my days, creating a delicious conundrum that will, no doubt, be my progeny's to tackle. Thus endeth the lesson........................

                                             



The Agony Of Defeat

     As I pen this while lying in the emotional equivalent of the ICU, it will take all the restraint I can muster to avoid a meltdown - just trying to keep my rubbed-raw feelings in check. Though a dark gloom envelops me, I'll press on and report on the happenings of this weekend past.

     Saturday broke with all imaginable promise, as the day had finally arrived - PattyPalooza X was here (for those few remaining souls that do not understand the significance of this event, let me suggest you read my previous post, then return & try to remain abreast)! The food and beverages had been purchased/refrigerated/iced, the grounds were immaculately manicured, the pool was sparkling, and I, your window into this incredible world, was - as a fine thoroughbred - longing to leave the starting gate. I had trained for this moment all year; my sinewy form, taught with explosive anticipation, strained to be loosed. Upon our arrival, and at Patty's direction, we commenced what I only later learned would be a climb up heartbreak hill.

     Certainly, nothing foreshadowed the anguish that awaited me. The first day was zesty - punctuated by dips in the pool, snacks galore, adult beverages, relationships re-cemented (or, so I thought...) and a seafood banquet of shrimp and King Crab legs. Perhaps it was my preoccupation with my girls in the moon ensuring the best possible feast for our revelers that prevented me from sensing the skullguggery that was afoot. Regardless, my world would soon be shattered. I slept the innocent sleep of a child.

     Sunday dawned; I awoke to a sense of cold dread that I could not identify, but I thought, "What harm could possibly befall me, surrounded by my loyal, loving family?". It was soon after that I learned would could only be described as the horrible truth. Unbeknownst to me, a back-room deal had been cut; the centerpiece of the festival - THE WASHER TOURNAMENT - had been tampered with!

In an inexplicable and still heartbreaking turn, the teams had been "selected" by secret ballot.    Words cannot adequately express my horror to learn that my long-time partner (who shall remain unnamed, for fear of reprisals) had somehow been teamed with a younger entrant, with formidable washer skills! As the shock of this coursed through my veins, memories of prior tourneys came rushing back; words like teammates, camaraderie and loyalty flashed through my mind. Finally, though dazed by this sucker-punch, I gathered myself; then, in a manner as dignified as possible given this seismic change of events, I went behind the house and, in a scene rivaling the pathos of Greek tragedy, cried my eyes out.                    

     The first few games went smoothly enough. My new "randomly selected" teammate was skilled and battle-tested, and our team piled up one impressive victory after another. By then, I had gathered myself sufficiently to maintain a representative presence in the games. However, drained of all feeling, my skills seemed sub-standard; this owing no doubt, to the torturous visage of my former partner's playful enthusiasm with her new teammate. The monsoon-like rain that fell that evening, only served to presage what was to come with the dawn.

  The day of the finals - Monday - arrived, and the competition resumed. Though successful, their team owed little if it to my former partner's contribution; in fact, she was struggling mightily. She had somehow lost her magic, and points for her were hard to come by. It was then, that chivalry demanded action.  During a lull in the competition, I suggested a new technique that she might try to improve her results, and regain her mojo. Although sensing that I had somehow sealed my own fate, I did what I felt was the right thing - I rescued a wounded bird <see reference several posts ago>. Sadly, what happened thereafter was no surprise; taking to the new-found method like a duck to water, The Karate Kid kicked Mr. Miyagi's butt in the tournament's final game - wresting the championship, and what remained of his heart and soul, away. Oh, the injustice of it all.

                                                        

     There you have it dear friends. As I crawl inward to repair both my psyche and my pride, I leave you with this single dab of salience: no good deed truly goes unpunished. Process this and share your thoughts on my latest revelation.........     

The Legend Of PattyPalooza

                   
Citizens:

     Well, Mother Nature sure showed us who's still in charge. Let's see, in the span of 5 short days, those of us fortunate enough to live in the idyllic paradise that is the lower Susquahanna Valley, experienced both an earthquake (Richter 5.8ish) and a hurricane (Irene - Cat 1ish). Superstitious types - those who believe that these things come in threes, are awaiting the volcanic eruption that we're surely destined to experience. I scoff at such pedestrian fears, but suggest there may be another event of similarly seismic proportions on the horizon - PattyPalooza X! For those of you who don't already understand the significance of this annual soiree, permit me to bring you up to speed (so to speak).

     Long ago, in a land far, far away, there lived a beautiful Princess and her dashing husband, the Prince. They enjoyed a peaceful existance, blessed with 2 fine sturdy children, making their home in a bucolic setting, deep within an enchanted woodland. All was well. But then, inevitably, their children grew and developed interests outside their forest home.

       At first, this seemed a benign development; the empty nest had been a foregone conclusion to child-rearing, but somehow, the emptiness that enveloped the royal couple was palpable. This was especially true for the Princess - Patty. Whiling away the days with sundry employment and decorating tasks just didn't fill the void in her life that this natural progression had wrought.

     It was just after hosting the perfunctory family gathering, that the Princess had an idea; why not create an annual event for family and assorted townsfolk to enjoy? This would surely provide the missing spark and likely result in mirth and merriment for all involved. 

     

      She quickly set to the task, incorporating ideas and assistance from the farthest reaches of the kingdom. The resultant pagan festival that bears her name - PattyPalooza - was born. Over the years, the Princess and her Prince transformed their arboreal homeland into a theme park, of sorts. 

     Featured attractions, added throught the years include: the slip & slide of doom, the duck regatta, fireworks (the real ones, not those dopey fake ones), kareoke, bean bag/washer toss tourneys, talent contests, awards ceremonies, and last years' crowning jewels, the pool and Tiki bar. Theme t-shirts were added over the years, some of which made their way to other lands, destined perhaps to inspire other fair-haired princesses.

     So there you have it; as we prepare for this year's edition, the 10th, those fortunate souls holding the golden invitation tickets will surely rest their heads each night, their hearts full of wonder - anticipating what's to come. Sweet dreams.....                                    

   

Wall Paper

Vaqueros:
     For some reason lately, walls have been a recurring theme in Speed's world. as many of you know, I am an accomplished <my opinion, not independently verified> dry-stack wall builder. My skills are in high demand; this, evidenced by the plethora of requests I receive for assistance/advice for said services. In fact, at this very moment, I am considering how best to overcome significant challenges posed by yet another of these muros de piedra.
     As such, and in response to the overwhelming outpouring of opinion generated by my "Rain" post several months back, I thought I'd reprise that work of art - this time, featuring "Walls". However, instead of limiting myself to musical references only, I'd consider other genres as well. So, without further dalliance, here is my brief "Walls In Pop Culture" listing (try to keep up):

Musical Groups: Wallflowers / Wall Of VooDoo / Tilly and the Wall
Songs: Hello Walls / The Wall (duh) / Wonderwall / 99 Bottles of Beer On The Wall
Movies: The Wall (see above) / Wall-E
Other References: "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!" - Ronald Reagan / Wall Of Sound - Phil Spector

     Again dear friends, this is obviously not an exhaustive listing, but one designed merely to get your minds moving at a modicum of the warp-speed pace at which mine cruises. Please do not dissappoint me; respond with suggestions that I've deliberately omitted missed - thereby confirming your attendence at these lectures.
     This has been a stimulating exercise - so much so that I'm reminded of the inspirational words of Col. Nathan Jessup. I intend to apply this crystalized logicism as I face my current challenge: "You want me on that wall; you need me on that wall.".........
                                                   

Ea$y Come - Ea$y Go

Plebeians:  

        By now, I’m sure you all have nearly had your fill of this whole “Debt Ceiling” issue. Well I thought I’d put a capper on this and provide you, my devoted readers, with my personal thoughts on all things financial; Tommy Geronimo’s Econ 101. In some jurisdictions, the following qualifies you for Continuing Education Credits (CEUs)

     Regardless of your politics (Democrat / Republican / Tea Party / Whig), I’m guessing that the recent Beltway goings-on we’ve seen have left you flummoxed. Let me clear it up for you. You see, it’s actually very simple; if you don’t earn/make/collect enough money to pay all your bills, simply borrow some more. Here's a theorum that I heard the other day that may help explain this rationale: "If you borrow $1 million, the bank owns you; if you borrow $100 million, you own the bank".       
    A cursory review of my vast holdings reveals that, at this point, I’m about even – give or take a few dollars. However, some time ago, I examined my annual Social Security statement and, for lack of anything remotely productive with which to sate my child-like curiosity, calculated my gross earnings to that point. To my customary self-centered delight, I discovered that over the course of my working life, I had earned over $1 million dollars! Feeling rather good about that, I mentioned this to my family; they
soon reminded me that those listed earnings spanned approximately 40 years, and (doing the math) this wasn't such a remarkable accomplishment. In fact, they chided me for how long it took to reach that lofty plane. I was devastated unamused.
      Nonplussed, I returned a snappy response: not only had I earned over $1 million dollars in my life, I had spent over $1 million dollars as well - this last fact evidenced by the negligable balances in my bank accounts. No one in the room was as impressed with that as I; this, owing no doubt to my resistance to any/all attempts to instill a Puritan work ethic, during my formative years. It was after this testy exchange, staring sullenly into my bowl of Special K (what else would I eat?), that I began to hatch my latest scheme. 

     Since I had no interest in trying was unable to substantively alter the earn/spend equation by conventional means (work harder / work longer / work smarter / spend less), I should <cue the patriotic music> follow my country’s lead by borrowing substantially more money than I could ever hope to repay. This, I'm confident, will finally free me from the unbearable bonds of servitude and enable me to discard the yoke of burdensome daily toil. I’ll be rich.

      All that remains is some paperwork; I’ve done the heavy lifting by completing most of the forms, however I need your help, dear friends. Simply notify me of your interest in becoming a co-signer - first come, first serve – so I may begin to enjoy the financial freedom that most of you may only dream of.

     See you on the golf course……….

Cruisin'

      Once again, chamacos, it’s time to gather ’round uncle Speed’s easy chair and listen with rapt delight, as I spin yarns about my latest adventure.
*****But first, a word of caution: those of you prone to heartsick depression may wish to stop here – most of what will follow will likely reduce you to a fetid heap of moribund goo, as you desperately wish, with all your heart, that you could be me. Read on at your peril.*****
      The sun rose bright and strong over the mighty Susquehanna last Saturday, as your skipper and 13 pleasure boaters prepared to set sail in a southerly direction, for parts unknown. Most of the sailors were seasoned veterans of these waters, well aware of the dangers lurking just below the surface of that placid flow. The hearts pounding in the breasts of the plebes however, belied the air of confidence they tried so hard to project. The tension was palpable; nonetheless, we cast off. A few pics of the early stages of the voyage follow (group pic missing Nate, Kyle & Dave, who were off parking cars…):

      Most of what occurred over the next 6 hours was typical seafarin’ stuff - rapids to negotiate, eddies to avoid, typhoons to sail through – no real challenge for yours truly. Then, appearing seemingly from out of thin air, there she was. Posed before me was a real live mermaid; the beauty of this creature was other-worldly! Like a siren, she beckoned me closer and closer..... Naturally, being the keen minded, scientific type, I understood quickly the value in documenting this occurrence. In no time, this gorgeous creature was captured in full 5 megapixel glory. But then, as quickly as she had appeared, she was gone. I pondered this, then realized the true nature of my treasure; she didn’t belong to me – she never did (que the sappy music). As heartbreaking as it was, I knew I had to let her go. Although I no longer have her digital image, I do remember what she looked like. Working as best I can from memory - here, in spectacular detail, is my treasure of the sea:
                                                                 
      Whilst I was otherwise engaged however, the crew fell into a mutinous grumble, fueled in no small part by what they felt was the interminable nature of the voyage. They discussed charting their own course. But just as the knives were about to be drawn and a plank prepared - finally, the sound we’d longed for those many nautical miles was heard; waves lapping against a distant shore. Land ho!

     Our makeshift city was soon erected and we at once turned our attention to the real purpose of our voyage, consuming our repast, firin’ up our smoke sticks and emptyin’ our tankards of grog healthy mature camping fellowship. Here’s evidence of that:   

      After a restful evening spent in nylon cocoons, the band of brigands awoke to the impossibly delicious aroma of Uncle Speed’s River Chow. Though only suited for real men (maybe the reason all did not partake), the wafting scent of this amazing brew surely tempted even the vultures that, oddly, seemed purposeful in their tracking of our journey the previous day. Soon enough though, we were back on the waves, charting a homeward course that wove us past the Statue Of Liberty (Dauphin County’s version), and ultimately brought us safely to the shores of Fort Hunter, USA.

      So there it is, darlings; off to bed with you now, as Tommy prepares for new adventures. Some of them will be newsworthy, others, not so much – all however, merely serve as shallow preludes to the highlight of this, and every social season, PattiPalooza X. Stay tuned.
      PS: I’m considering a name change for this, the most amazing information outlet since the demise of Rupert’s News Of The World. My working title is “Talk Is Cheap” (never more obviously so than a review of the annuls of this blog reveals). Gimme your thoughts on that - or feel free to suggest another. All input will be considered; only mine will prevail…..



   

Ready To Shove Off

Landlubbers:

           Well, it’s nearly here – the launch of this year’s Killa Flotilla. More than a dozen intrepid tars will soon set sail on an adventure down the mighty Susquehanna. For me, and a few other grizzled veterans of the open seas, this will be a return to that sacred waterway, whose genesis is found aways up thar in New York State.
           Having logged these many nautical miles, we cast off knowing full well the potential of those angry waves.

                 In addition, we’ll be responsible for the guidance of those

 wide-eyed pups in the group, for whom this will no doubt be the

 thrill of a lifetime.

                Your faithful captain will remain strong and firm, like a

 diamond among pearls; ever vigilant, ever strong, ever at the ready

 to encourage the faint of heart.  Avast, we sail at dawn……..

       

Horace Greeley Was Right

Speed Demons:
     Like MacArthur, I have returned: he, to Leyte - I, to Harrisburg. The commonalities of those sites notwithstanding, it's time to detail my recent sojourn to southern & central California. I wasn't alone; my travelling companions were other family members, who - I'm certain - would love to share their stories as well. But, it's My blog, so these are My stories.

     Upon my arrival in the Sunshine State, my steed was at the ready. I soon became one with this shiney device and it faithfully transported me up/down, in/around that glorious landscape. Here she is, awaiting my command.

     The trip was built around the wedding of our nephew Jed, and his fiancee Rachel. The ceremony was held at a ranch on a mountaintop near Los Olivos, at the Figuera Mountain Farmhouse. Here's the link: http://www.figueroamountainfarmhouse.com/ I have tons of pics, but this one best represents the blessed union (again, It's My blog).



      Most of the remaining photojournaling includes debauchery unsuited for this family-oriented venue; as such, they remain available only for private viewings, by appointment only. Suffice it to say, the wedding was the high point of the trip. However, the remainder was not without its share of stunning scenery, amazing wildlife and fantastic sites. In the interest of brevity, a few examples follow:

 

 

         I only have about 383,013 more amazing shots; not pictured above were shots of Alcatraz, Chinatown and the Painted Sisters in San Francisco - elephant seals and otters in San Simeon and Monterey - amazing views of Pebble Beach, the California Redwoods and, of course, tons of a few wine tasting experiences in the Santa Ynez Valley. There is one shot however, that speaks volumes about the enormous popularity, and ability to immediately connect, possessed by yours truly:

     Beg as she might, and though it likely broke her heart, I told her I could not stay with her and help her rid the West of desperados. Until next time amigos.........

Short & Sweet

Lemmings:
     This one will be brief; merely an appetizer for the main course to follow - my musings following an upcoming trip to the Left Coast.We leave soon.
     In my last post, I mentioned that I was born in Cali; specifically, at Camp Pendleton where Gomer Pyle was filmed (appropriate, non?).

                                                         

     I'd love to get back there to see where it all began - maybe even walk the same ground trod by the PFC whose sharp wit, encyclopedic grasp of all things known, and laser-like focus has inspired this writer to the lofty heights he's achieved. 
     Next time, I'll regale you with adventurous tales of my exploits near the Pacific, and prepare you all for the "Killa Flotilla" that's scheduled for July. Pax vobiscum..........

California Dreamin'

     Yes, I know it seems like forever since my last foray into bloggy-world, but chins up little buckaroos, Tommy's back and so full of dictum that it's flowing from his fingers at an alarming pace.

     Obviously, my weather related rants have had no effect; Mother Nature continues to flip us off, rendering even the sunniest of Central Pennsylvania dispositions sullen and ill-tempered; Shop Vac-ing the basement several times a month will do that to you.
     We were able to travel to Altoona - yes, it rained there too - for the blessed nuptuals of G-Wen and Wayne.

Great wedding and great reception (hope Radar Love never appears on the U-Tube). Breakfast the next morning with Slammin' Sammy, Court and the fams was both a fitting celebration of Mother's Day, and (if filmed & shown in high schools throughout the country) an effective birth-control PSA.

     Next on the agenda for your beloved author are CPUMC's 20th annual Golf Classic in early June, and thereafter, a brief trip to sunny California. The golf outing will be special, as I seek to defend the title so effortlessly won last year - effortless, in that I did little or nothing to aid our team.

Raising funds has been the focus of these outings. Since we've begun, we've raised nearly $12,000 for the various missions of XPoint; this year, monies will be split between our food pantry and our sister church efforts in Maboleh, Sierra Leone.

     The Cali trip will be special, as I intend to offer a sympathetic shoulder to Maria look forward to the blessed union of G-Wen's brother Jed, and his lovely bride-to-be Rae Rae.

This will be bittersweet for me; it's always difficult to see them leave the nest, but my little washer partner is all grown up now, with a life of her own - - - fly little bird, fly!

     Don't know how many of you know this, but I was born in California, just a few short scores ago (I see California girls in my dreams). Other activities on the Left Coast will include recreating the debauchery of the movie Sideways - in the wine country, a liesurely drive up the coast on HWY 1, and poppin' around San Francisco for a day or so. Then, soon enough, I'll be winging my way homeward, to rejoin my comrades in what by then will surely more resemble Atlantis, than the All-American City I call home.
     Hasta la vista babies; I'll be back. Sorry, I couldn't resist a few Arnold-isms..........

Genesis 7 Revisited

Ducklings:
     With little other inspiration to choose from, I'm creating a rainy mix; feel free to suggest titles I've missed ......
Track   1: Rain Rain Go Away
Track   2: Rainy Night In Georgia
Track   3: Purple Rain
Track   4: Raindrops Are Falling On My head 
Track   5: Feels Like Raindrops
Track   6: I Wish It Would Rain
Track   7: Kentucky Rain
Track   8: Here Comes The Rain Again
Track   9: Who'll Stop The Rain
Track 10: I'm Only Happy When It Rains
Track 11: Blue Eyes Cryin' In The Rain
Track 12: November Rain
Track 13: Ain't No Sunshine (not about rain, but I don't care - it's MY list)

     You get the idea; I think I'm retaining fluid. Here's a peek at what's become an all too constant scene outside my door. 



     There's got to be an end to this .............

She's A Doll

Progenistas:

     Generally, these posts are either all about me, or all about something I'm doing/I've done. However, I now break with that time-honored tradition to alert the world to one of its latest citizens. Audrey Jean Kocevar arrived at 11:41pm, on April 14. Vitals aren't that interesting to true red-blooded menfolk, but here they are (for the less agressive of the species) anyway; 6lbs, 8ozs - 18 3/4". Here she is:

     Naturally, your beloved author is pictured as well because I can't help myself I wanted to show  you how cute she is. Hard to believe someone so youthful in appearance could have 4 grandchildren. Must be the killer lifestyle............

The Baddest Man On The Planet

     This is a short one. On Sunday evening, at 7pm, I will be taking part in CrossPoint's Ekklesia service - at our Rutherford campus, on Mifflin Avenue in Rutherford; doors open at 6:30. The program begins at 7:00pm, and includes an original drama, written by Pastor Dave Biser's oldest daughter, Audrey. It is an interesting look into the characters of Peter and Judas, as they interact during that first fateful Holy Week. I'm cast as Judas - the penultimate villian. I know - somewhat of a stretch for a sweet, kind guy like me. It's going to be great; the drama and music will be well worth your time. Come one, come all.......

Mountaineering

     I know; you're thinking, "What in the name of self aggrandizement can this guy have to say now? He just posted last week!" Well children, gather 'round as uncle Spike tells you about his latest adventure.
     Last week, I was privileged to accompany some amazing folks on a mission trip to West By God Virginia. Specifically, I was part of a team of 15 that volunteered with a group called Appalachian Service Project (ASP). We travelled about 9 hours to southern West Virginia, to perform construction projects for residents of some of the poorest areas of the country. ASP operates in 5 states, all in Appalachia (duh!), and provides construction-type services for the neediest of the needy. I love their (ASP's) slogan: "Make It Warmer / Make It Dryer / Make It Safer". That's exactly what they do. This is no dopey "Move that bus!" kinda operation, the likes of which are geared more at publicity and ratings (and, in my view, are more exploitive in nature than anything); no, this is honest folks meeting honest needs. Here's a link to their site: http://asphome.org/
     Our group split into 3 teams of 5 persons each. Two of those groups were assigned one house to work on, but there were two seperate projects. They did eletrical work, plumbing work, cabinetry construction, foundation work, room construction and probably lots more. Their accomplishments in two short days of on-site work were amazing. The third group (the one I was assigned to) was apparently more trustworthy, as we were assigned our own project. The skill level in our group must have been superior, as we needed no "support team" on-site. Our project was to construct the underpinning around the trailer, replace the bathroom floor, tile the floor, replace the toilet, and replace the faucets in the kitchen and the bathroom. We also had to determine why there was no water getting to the trailer, and resolve same. This, we did with alacrity. We also repaired the drip edge around the unit and removed some dangerous tin overhangs on the porch. Normally, I would include some pics of our efforts, but it is critical to maintain the anonymity of the clients, as well as respect their dignity; thus, my uncommon restraint.

     The coordinators of all these afforts were two young ladies named Kristen and Ashleigh. Though barely in their 20s, these ladies were more than a match for everything our teams threw at them. Their focus and attention to detail, as well as their seemingly encyclopedic knowledge of construction projects/jargon (far beyond anything I'm capable of) was impressive. I will include their picture; hats off to them both.

     I should also add that our team won extra special t-shirts for winning the Safety Raffle......amazing what a few ice cream sandwich bars can do. Other trip highlights included an appearance by a real live bluegrass group. That's not necessarily my cup 'o tea, but they were really good, and it was a great way to end the trip on Saturday night. The team leaders are planning another trip in the fall - 4 days in Octoberish, I think. I encourage anyone who wants to experience mission trips, but doeasn't want to go for a full-bore, 2 weeks, costly trip, check this out. It's a great way to see if this kind of experience is for you.

     Well, enough about this. Now that I'm freed up from helpin' others, I can FINALLY focus on me! What I'd really like to do is go to Texas - "they got some big, long roads out there" (Chris Rea reference, y'all). Guess I'll go to Cali instead; that's comin' up in early summer, so watch for details on that. Also scheduled is the 3rd annual SusQ Flotilla. Upwards of 10 watercraft may make the trip - the exact location of which has yet to be determined. There's also the grand opening of the pond, the 20th annual CPUMC Classic, a May wedding in Altoona. So many things to do, so little time, and only one of me......pity, that.

Thawin' Out

     Ladies & gentlemen, boys & girls: so much stuff careens around in my head that I feel compelled to share some of it with those of you who are, by now, doublessly breathless with antici..........pation (Last Rocky Horror reference in this post, I promise), as you await the next garbled ramblings of your hero, Tommy Geronimo.
     The melting snow and ice has inspired many of you to venture out of your wintering quarters, to allow the sun's radiance to warm your faces. I too have come out of my burrow, hitting the ground running (so to speak) with a flurry of activity - the likes of which hasn't been seen since Noah yelled, "All aboard!" Of course, there are the mundanities of home ownership to endure; I continue to dispatch these with as much feigned enthusiasm I can muster great joy and a sense of real accomplishment. Of course there are projects to plan, rocks to move (there are always rocks to be moved) and activities to schedule.
     The first, and probably most rewarding event is the upcoming Appalachian Service Project (ASP) trip to West Virginia. There are 15 of us on the team. I'm a rookie on this venture, and I'll look to the vets - some of which have been on many of these trips - for guidance, in my attempt not to embarrass the team. The work we'll be doing is mostly carpentry/plumbing related stuff, not exactly my sweet spots, so I'll do my best to stay out of everyone's way and not cause injury to a team member, or damage to one of the sites we're working on. I'm not sure where we're going in WV; I spent some time there several years ago, and I got a sense of what we might encounter. I remember seeing lots of cowboys and cowgirls (I like cowgirls a lot), and thought it odd to see these types east of the Pecos, but what do I know? We'll return 4 days later; hopefully, having left these places better than we found them.
     There's lots more in the planning pipeline - nothing as dramatic as last year's skydive, but I'm gonna try to fill the summer slate as much as I can. I hate doing nothing.........
   

March Madness

     I must confess that, as of late, I've been kinda grouchy. Lotsa reasons for that, I'm: mad because:
                                    * of the relentlessly grim weather.
                                    * it isn't Spring yet; I just saw my first robin today, for cryin' out loud.
                                    * of the paucity of meaningful sporting events - baseball has yet to 
                                       begin and football is over, leaving only the most unwatchable sport imaginable 
                                       basketball.
                                    * there is no real alternative to the mindless sedation that is network television.
                                    * gas prices continue to rise
    However, today my heart soared when a little slice of heaven was delivered to my door. Many of you know my deep, unfettered devotion for Lucinda Williams; today, her newest CD arrived, thanks to the good folks at Amazon.com - and despite the bumbling efforts of the USPS. But I digress - back to blue eyes.
     For those of you that have yet to discover this American treasure, here's a link to get you started http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lucinda_Williams. I gotta tell ya, I'm definately mad for her. I guess I'm mad about a lot of other things but those rants will have to wait for future posts.
     I'll also have some details on the upcoming WV mission trip later this month. Peace.......

Let's Get This Month Over With

     February - just the mention of this month engenders mixed feelings; it's still a cold, dark, snowy, icy time - but it's the "last one". Meaning, better days are ahead. Heck, it's spelling is even wacked.  Battlin' through this, the shortest month of the year like that's supposed to make it better somehow, has been a slog. But, you'll be glad to know that I'm ready to turn the page.
     Tommy G. and I are already planning an action packed spring and summer. Lots on the radar, the next being opening the pond and travelling to West Virginia (late March) for a quick mission trip. After that, I'm going to do some kayaking, some backpacking, and spend about a week in Cali. attending a wedding in the wine country/bouncing around the coast. I'll post plenty about these as they queue up. Seein' the doc soon to make sure the engine's ready to run trouble-free all summer. Fear not dear followers, I have the strength of ten, because my heart is pure.......
    

Moving On

     I want to thank all of those who followed me to and from Sierra Leone. It remains a formative experience in my life. I think often of our village, and the friends we have there. But, it's time to press on.
     In the weeks to come, I intend to regale any/all who have interest, with coming attractions and whatever musings/rants/etc. that come to mind. Feel free to suggest topics or ask questions. Knowing me is like going to college. Stay tuned and stay warm...........

Reflections

       It's been 3 1/2 days since our return and already I miss Maboleh and Sierra Leone. Oh, I don't miss all of it; here are some things I don't miss: warm drinks, no milk, dust, dust, dust, part-time electricity, wads of nearly worthless currency, and what seems like 38 different languages that I understand nearly nothing of. Regardless, the openness of the people, the joy of the children in the villages, and the acceptance that we Oportos feel, more than offsets the few inconveniences we encounter.
     During our stay, we were able to begin several construction projects; the first of these was a new latrine for the village. We helped dig the pit, carry concrete blocks, and purchased the materials to construct the facility itself - pics below....

   

       We also set about repairing & refurbishing the church parsonage - more pics.....

     Finally, and most importantly, we laid the groundwork for our biggest challenge - rebuilding the church in the village. here are some pics of the current structure:

     Our time there was also spent on two other aspects of village life, the school and the medical clinic. The school is located at the southern end of the village. It has 4 rooms and a rough, open-air structure with a thatch roof that handles the overflow of students. There are about 240 (give or take) students; some of the rooms are so crowded that 2 classes are held simultaneously - one class facing one way, the other class facing the opposite direction. Here are some pics of the school and the teachers:

     The government run medical clinic is at the northern end of the village. We were able to donate a suitcase full of bandaids, bandages and other medical supplies - including medecine. here's a pic of the inside of the clinic and the nurse in charge - also, check out their ambulance:

           There's so much more I could write about and provide pictures of, but the post would be unmanageable. I'll try to make more pics and videos available to anyone who's interested; maybe just best to end with a few pics of the kids; the last is my friend from the last trip that received my Hope For Zoe bracelet..........

..... and the team.