Entry for April 3, 2011

The lazy days of summer will be here soon. It was hard to imagine that this past week with all the grey skies and rain we experienced. Rosco in the planter reminds me of how relaxed life should be.

The topping of the week was the rude awakening I had Thursday morning when I learned that my furniture was being removed from my Chattanooga apartment one day sooner than I thought. By the time I found out, they had taken everything but the couch. I was planning to move out on Friday, but was forced to get everyhing packed up Thursday afternoon. I guess there was a communication failure on several levels as to when the official last day was and what the logistics plan would be. I didn't set up the lease and had no idea about what was agreed. I'll know better next time. I'll be more in control of what happens during my next long term out-of-town project.

For the most part this weekend was easy going for Gin and I. I spent Saturday morning organizing and stowing away the apartment items and extra clothing that I accumulated over the past 10 months. We did a little shopping and also managed a visit with Nolan and Dean at their house. Patrick was getting his newly acquired lawn mower working and Jessica was home catching up on the domestic chores. Nolan and I had a lot of play time in the driveway and backyard. Dean enjoyed swinging with Gin and me trading off on the pushing.

Today was spent finishing up closet organizing, vacuuming, dusting and laundry. Each of us picking our normal duties and taking care of business. A short trip to Costco top pick up some necessities and a frozen yogurt of course. Then relaxing with computer games, DVR movies and books to close out the weekend.

I have assumed new duties at work and will be learning more about running the American side of the business over the next few months. I'm hoping I'm up for the task and that I can prove my worth. I also hope this is something that fits my work style and abilities. There is a new horizon I am looking at. I think I'll like it.

Emjoy the spring and don't let the wicked weather sneak up on you!

P@

Entry for March 27, 2011

 

Can you imagine reflecting your image 121 ways at the same time. Maybe this is how we are seen by countless others. I know I look at myself sometimes and wonder what others see in me. First impressions, second chance encounters, life long relationships, school mates, co-workers, parishioners, and the list goes on. Who are we in the eyes of the people in our lives? Who do they see? Is it the person you want them to see? Dwelling on trivial notions of what we want others to know about us can twist our minds and warp our projected self. I try not to be someone that I don't want to be. I try not to be someone others want me to be. I try to be me.

Another doctor bites the dust...in my book. I arrived at the G.I. doctor's office ten minutes before my 2:00 appointment. It was 2:35 before I was called back to the exam rooms. At 3:15 I got up from the exam table and walked out of the room. I told the receptionist and nurse that I was done waiting and I was leaving.

"But Mr. Hairston, he will probably be seeing you in the next 5 minutes." 

Sorry, but I've waited to see him long enough, I'm not waiting any longer. 

So I walked out and straight downstairs to my personal doctor's office for a reschedule with another G.I. doctor. I will not be put on hold in a doctor's office like that again. The search is on for a new G.I. physician!

 After the drama at the Dr's office, I was back in my own office for a brief meeting with JP, my ex co-worker to learn more about taking care of the business during his transition out of our company. Then I was heading home to pack up for a weekend in Chattanooga with Gin. We finally left the house just before 7:00 and arrived in Chattanooga around 11:30. Worn out from the long day and long trip, we were sacked out shortly after arriving at my apartment.

Friday morning I took care of some work related issues before we ventured out to the city. The morning was spent driving around and viewing some of the features that I have enjoyed in Chattanooga. We also made a trip to the wholesale clubs to check on any possible discounts at the aquarium or museum (none to be found). After a split platter of turkey burger and fresh made chips, we headed over to the Hunter Museum. The museum featured several paintings from Los Mailou Jones and glass sculptures by Stephen Rolfe Powell. The piece that impressed me the most was  Karen LaMonte's "Reclining Dress Impression with Drapery" made of cast glass. Just Google the name of the piece and you will see several pictures of this awesome work of art.

Saturday we enjoyed the Tennessee Aquarium with cousin Nancy and her husband Glenn. The aquarium has two buildings that separate rivers and oceans. The self guided tours of both buildings was simple to follow with plenty of information about the various forms of life within the displays. The penguins and otters were the most entertaining. The jellyfish room was the most intriguing. Before we knew it, we were done, Nancy and Glenn said their goodbyes and headed back home to Nashville. Gin and I took a ride to the nature park reserve near the VW plant, then to the Fox and Hound Pub for dinner.

Sunday we slept in and took our time packing up for the return trip home. We drove US-64 from Cleveland, TN to Hendersonville and encountered some awesome waterfall displays near Highlands as well as pea soup fog around Lake Toxaway. Overall the trip was relaxing but time consuming. It was nice not having to deal with the lunatics on the interstate roads. Arriving safe at home again is always the best part of the trip. We have new memories of places we enjoy with hope of returning together again.

Keep your headlights burning bright!

P@

Entry for March 20, 2011

Finally the first day of spring is upon us. It was a little chilly today but that didn't stop the daffodils from showing off their love of the season. We have four sets of daffodils planted in front of each set of porch steps. They were given to us at a infant bereavement memory walk a few years ago. We planted them in memory of Beau and Haley. Their arrival helps me remember Beau and Haley and how delicate life is.

I missed posting anything last week. I guess work really took over my weekend which left little time to unwind my mind. One of the corporate owners arrived from Germany with a project manager on Saturday. We worked all day Sunday preparing for meetings that week with BMW and VW. Part of their trip also involved the changing of the guard at my office. I have become the only U.S. employee in the company. We discussed how we can move forward and possible expand the presence of the parent company in the U.S. After their departure on Wednesday, I felt a little better about the prospect of staying with them and helping grow the business. There are many things to be settled and I try to keep in mind that it only takes one step at a time.

This weekend was fairly relaxing. Gin and I didn't do too much on Saturday besides trade in my rental for another and pick up groceries. The new rental car is a Jeep Grand Cherokee and has a real neat feature. I don't need to take the keys out of my pocket...ever. When I walk up to the car, it unlocks. To start the car I push a button and likewise to turn the engine off. To lock the car, I can push the inside lock button before closing the door, or push a button outside on the door handle. I'll also be enjoying the satellite radio on the long trips.

Today I finally cleaned up the yard with the mower. The leaves had been on the ground through the winter. We enjoyed the late afternoon and evening at Patrick's and Jessica's  for dinner and play time with Nolan and Dean. Nolan and I spent a little time on the front porch with Nolan doing most of the talking. After dinner Nolan fell asleep in my arms and I laid him in his bed. This gave me time to wrestle and play with Dean and get some pretty healthy laughs out of him.


Enjoy the season!
P@

Entry for March 6, 2011

Getting my brain to slow down and relax lately is like getting a toddler to do the same. In the photo above, Nolan was able to keep still just long enough for me to snap the picture. It helped to have a freshly applied monster truck tatoo that required some drying time. Earlier he had a truck tatoo placed on his right forearm...which wasn't enough. He needed to have the second tatoo because that's how he rolls. Back to my brain slowing down, the thoughts of job challenges and changes has kept my brain very active. I'm in a current state of limbo on my current job while openly pursuing other opportunities. Playing the field while still being competative at work is mind bending for me. My eating and sleeping habits have suffered bcause of it. That's just how I handle stress. I still run 3 miles a day for three to five days a week. Sometimes the running is enough to take the edge off...and sometimes it feels like a big waste of time. Things will clear up in the near future or at least by the end of the month.

Lately I've been home every weekend I can. No need to hang around Chattanooga when there is little to do on the project site. Still, a short time at home gives little time for too much of anything. In small doses I  have been able to accomplish bigger things. Last weekend it was a trip to Charlotte to meet Caris and Thomas half-way between our towns. This weekend it was a cookout with Patrick, Jessica, Nolan and Dean. The weather was dreary but the company was pure sunshine. Both boys managed to take advantage of Grams and Pappy for play time, hugs, kisses and laughs. We grilled hamburgers, chicken burgers and chicken sausage. We shared time together while watching Marmaduke on the big screen. Marmaduke was one of my favorite childhood book series. The movie was good, but not as good as the company.

Today was a day to make minor repairs to the mudroom floor. A water leak from a few years ago made a section of floor buckle under the washer. Today I made a temporary fix with a hard board to keep the load steady. Major renovation in that room will have to wait until I have more time.

We also enjoyed staying home for most of the weekend. The rain helped curb any wondering around town. Saturday afternoon naps and Sunday book reading were the perfect in-between activities of each day.

A year ago and several months leading up to my current job, I was very vocal on Facebook. Vocal about sharing open thoughts for the day or commenting on current ideas or posts by friends and aquantences. I've been a luittle more conservative in my open posts and any revalation that may have entered my mind. I'm not sure what turn of events caused my sudden decline in running off at the Facebook. I guess I'm a little more cautious and maybe even more sensative to what others may believe. I was not openly for or against any political, religious or social issue. Just open about what was on my mind at the moment. Using my blog to share some of my mindless dribble may have helped replace that openess I shared on a daily basis. I also believe being fully occupied with a full time occupation makes little time for mindless dribble. All I know and believe is, if I spoke my mind openly like some people do, who would listen? Who would leave? Who would stand up to me and tell me their side? I'll just leave well enough alone and let my imagination make those assumptions.

Have a good one!
P@

Entry for February 28, 2011

There are times I have felt like I was spiraling downward. Not fast like a plane that lost its engines. More like a slow descent down a a spiral staircase. When you start down it may be hard to see the bottom. Each step reveals another step. Sometimes it's a short trip and other times may feel like an eternity. The nice thing about it is reaching the bottom and finding the way to leap the tallest building in a single bound. Well maybe not quite like Superman, but within reasonable circumstances things are not as bad as they were.

Looking down into the spiral staircase without knowing what lies below can be harrowing to say the least. This is why we try to plan ahead. Reading situations that begin to unfold in front of us and staying aware of the choices that enter our lives. I like to stay between the spiral staircase and the top of the tallest building. I see both as having a sudden drop if the choices I make bring me within their grasp.

The month of March, which is ahead of me, will be filled with spiral staircases and skyscrapers. I'll be trying to stay at street level dodging traffic and watching the signs. I am hoping my keen awareness level pays off in the coming weeks and months. Temporary work positions can be rewarding for those who manage to create a field of awareness with former, current and future colleagues. I will be diligent. I have survived before and will survive again.

I arrived home late Friday night and had a good night's sleep. Gin and I ran some errands Saturday morning in my trusty Lumina. 291,000 miles and she still gets the job done. After the morning errands we switched cars for our trip to Charlotte and some time with Caris and Thomas. No, we didn't take the Lumina! I only trust her in town since she has too much road under her wheels.

We met Caris and Thomas at Mary Jo's fabric store in Gastonia. This store is the biggest fabric store you could ever imagine. If you can dream it, they have it. I even managed to pick up a special gift for my Pollyanna recipient. After Mary Jo's we followed the youngsters to Home Depot to drop off their truck. Then we stopped by Steak 'n Shake for milkshakes. After the frosty treats we were off to Charlotte.

Prior to our trip, I looked on-line for interesting museums to visit. You know...free museums. The Light Factory Contemporary Museum of Photography and Film is one of only four museums for photography and film in the United States. It was interesting and a little naked. Well, not that bad! There was one exhibit that featured some nudes that were tastefully portrayed. Other exhibits were self portraits from a high school class and person's family photographs (all clothed).

We tried to take in other museums but we really didn't allow time to do too much of that. We changed gears and headed to the south side of the Queen City and Mama Ricotta's Italian Restaurant. We sat out on the patio and enjoyed pizza. After dinner was a visit to the used record store and then back to Gastonia. We ended the night with Caris and Thomas and made our way back toward home. They had a little shopping to do before the stores closed. We had a good visit which was our first together since Christmas. Time flies when you work and live away from your family. 

 Sunday Gin and I took it pretty easy. In the morning I played a round of disc golf with my former colleague, JP. His first time at the game yielded a pretty good round. We were done by noon and I was back home for left-over pizza with Gin. We traveled out for a little shopping, then back home to watch the movie "Men With Brooms". The movie was light and funny and well worth the relaxing afternoon to watch. We had dinner at La Paz Mexican restaurant. 


Monday was my drive back to Chattanooga. A little after my arrival a fairly large and intense line of storms moved through the area. I ended up having to flee our job trailer for fear of the oncoming cloud of furry and the rocking motion from the straight line winds. The only choice I had was to jump in the car and drive in the clear area away from the storm. Thankfully the VW plant has a large paved lot for the new cars and it was empty. When it was all over, I returned to only minor damage. The underpinning was ripped from the front end, but overall, it managed to stay tied down. This was my second close encounter of the fajita scale in the Chattanooga area. The first was back in October 2010.


Stay safe and keep your eye on the sky!
P@

Entry for February 20, 2011

Again I look up to the sky to give me peace of mind. To let me know things are good in my life and that it (the sky) will always provide a safe haven for my thoughts. A place to let all the worries of the day, week or year float away. Maybe I should have studied weather? Then again, I guess I study it every day. Every day that I can look up to the heavens and be amazed by the ever changing canvas above our heads. I think over the past several years I have come to realize that the sky is my favorite subject to photograph. Mostly with the horizon and sun playing big parts. But sometimes just the sky alone with its mysterious cloud formations painting a self portrait.

I explored, by means of boredom, a narrow road that travels an eastern ridge overlooking the Tennessee River. I had been curious about the ridge and what the view of the "Scenic City" of Chattanooga would be from up there. This morning I mapped a route from the north to south end of Crest Road and came across numerous historical markers, plaques and monuments depicting the sites of key Civil War battles. The ridge is where the Union army defeated the Confederate army in key battles on the march to Atlanta. Personally, I am not a big history buff. But I was intrigued by the history this town has due to the Civil War. I know Patrick would be even more interested in the history of this area.

Today was my only day off this week. I was at the BMW plant in Greer at the beginning of the week. Wednesday I drove over to Chattanooga to catch up on happenings at the VW project. We're close to closing it out, but still have several open issues to resolve. Saturday work came as a late notice from the electrical subcontractor.

One day weekends are not my favorite. Being away from home is even less favorable. I try to make the most of being alone in a town that is not home. I think I tend to explore more about the towns I travel to than the one I live in. I know it's not totally true. When we first moved to South Carolina, Gin and I would pack up the family and make day trips to points unknown to explore our new home. We both love to know more about our surroundings. Seeing historical sites, landmarks and scenic natural wonders are rewarding to the explorer in us. I have tried to limit some of the more popular sites in Chattanooga for a time when Gin can visit this town with me. For example, I have not visited Rock City, Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls, Hunter Museum or Tennessee Aquarium. Need to save something for both of us to enjoy together.

See you next week!
P@

Entry for February 13, 2011

This weekend was long but short. Short because it was a two day weekend. Long because Gin and I took on the task of watching Dean and Nolan for close to 30 hours. It doesn't seam like much at first. Both boys are very good and very entertaining. Factor in overnight sleep time and not being accustomed to the sounds of  their night time antics makes for one long night. A little cough here, a little whimper there, I'm thirsty, hold me, I don't want to sleep and any other little cry in the night. Gin and I probably slept pretty well when we were sleeping. The broken patterns were what made for a long Sunday. I did what I could to distract myself from the lack of sleep by taking Nolan to the grocery store for sprinkled doughnuts. They didn't have any, so we settled for Spiderman cupcakes. Then on the drive home he proclaimed he wanted sprinkle doughnuts. So I stopped at the Hotspot c-store and picked up a Krispy Kreme glazed doughnut with sprinkles. We we returned home he licked some of the sprinkles then didn't want any more. He wanted a cupcake. He licked it a few times, then lost interest.

Nolan ran around a while then got to a point of an unsettled argumentative state of being. Time for a nap! He fought it a little then finally succumbed to sweet slumber. He settled in the bed and went out fairly quick. Gin had Dean nestled  on the couch. I made my way back to bed for a brief 15 minute period of sleep. Then my own rude coughing spell and wondering mind put the idea of sleeping right out the window. I'M UP!

Lunch made its way to the day, then a trip outside for the boys to run/crawl the back yard. I set up a large tarp for Dean to crawl around on. He made it clear that he wanted to play in the dirt, grass and leaves. Every time I tried to turn him back to the center of the tarp, he turned right back to the direction he was heading for. We ended up letting him do what he wanted...up to the point of eating leaves and grass.

Meanwhile, Nolan was satisfied riding his toy jeep or playing with the Frisbees. That and little trips down to the burn barrel to pee on it. Hey! If it keeps his pants dry, its good enough for me.

Dean tuckered out and went in with Gin for a little nap. I kept Nolan out a little longer since he was having so much fun. Before long we were back inside to winding things down. Shortly before 4, Patrick and Jessica arrived to take their babies home. What a long two days. The little ones can sure wear you out in no time.

As much as the times like this wears us out, we cherish the moments we get to be with our Grandchildren. I think it relates back to when we were raising our own Children and how much of there lives we missed because of all the responsibilities that go with raising them. Sometimes parents miss the little things. Discipline, teaching, feeding, clothing, etc. can distract the big picture of how wonderful it is to see a little human being thrive. Grandparents get to see the big picture when they are involved in the lives of their Grandchildren. We get to look back on the lives of our Children and relate them to what we are witnessing today in our Grandchildren.

Sure we made mistakes. There is no real book that teaches you everything about how to raise your own child. Live and learn. I believe Gin and I did a fairly good job as parents. Both Patrick and Caris have grown to be responsible adults who take pride in their lives. Gin was more of the hands on teacher of life itself. She taught them to be open and honest with their feelings and questions about life. I like to think I was the living example of being a productive member of working society who made time to spend with his children when it mattered most.

I probably jump around a lot with my blog posts. But as the title of my blog says "Thoughts and things that surround me". It gives me license to ramble about whatever I want. It clears my mind and hopefully helps my family and friends better understand who I am.

Thanks for reading!
P@

Entry for February 8, 2011

In a lifetime we have to cross several bridges. Some paved, some rocky and others old and rusty. Over the past 10 years I have crossed several bridges, some of them I helped build. I may not have burned any bridges, but I think I left a few scorched. At this point of my journey, I look at bridges in a different light. The last two years have given me a more cautious approach to a new crossing. Just crossing because it is the obvious way is not always the best choice. I may need a road map to find a better way. It may take longer, but may also become the better route. Sometimes I feel like driving in circles. In a circle I can go round and round until I see the right path. These days a person needs to look at all the crossings and choose the route that will yield the best results. A person can still market their skills and achieve substantial rewards for the effort. The biggest thing is remembering that nothing is permanent. Nothing! (except death)

Gin and I enjoyed our Sunday afternoon and evening with Patrick, Jessica, Nolan and Dean. We gathered for the Super Bowl game as well as a variety of food. I'm talking Buffalo wings, BBQ wings, pinwheel deli wraps, pigs-in-a-blanket, meatballs in marinara, chips & dip, veggie tray and fresh baked chocolate chip cookies. Oh, we did watch the Packers beat Gin's Steelers in a well played championship game. I spent a lot of time either cooking or playing with Dean and Nolan. Especially during the half time show. They call that crap entertainment? It was pure crap! There! I said it and am officially a grumpy old man. They should seriously consider letting a high school marching band provide a half time show. I'm not kidding! There are some very talented high school kids that can make that show look like Karaoke night at an Elks lodge. I think Karaoke night at an Elks lodge would be better than that CRAP! I regress.

I had a good time this past weekend with Gin and family. We're hoping to get a day with Caris sometime soon. It's been a while. I talked to her tonight and we'll be planning our next 5k sometime in March.

More winter weather on the way this week.
Be safe!
P@

Entry for January 30, 2011

Dancing on a bag of money. Wouldn't that be nice? Maybe not so far fetched if you look at life with such regard as having all the riches in the world. We are fortunate enough to have each other, a job that pays the bills, a roof over our heads and food on the table every day. I would say that qualifies as riches. Life is so unpredictable and things can change at a moment's notice. Little things that happen to us can be life changing...or just minor lessons in the big game.

Case in point: Last Wednesday I made my routine trek to the Tennessee Riverpark for a 3 mile run on the trail. It was breezy and cool at 34 degrees. My run was good and I felt great after cooling down and stretching. A short walk back to my rental car and a quick click of the key fob and I would be on my way. STOP! The key fob didn't open the door. STOP! Several attempts later including a drop and a warm breath blow on the fob and it still didn't unlock the car. STOP! Is there a brick nearby? STOP! Better not try that one. STOP! My phone, glasses and wallet were locked inside. STOP! I walked over to The Boathouse restaurant and asked the manager to help me call the rental company. STOP! She had to look up the number and dial the phone because my glasses were in the car. STOP! After two attempts, I finally reached a human being. STOP! Then I managed to get through the battery of questions to determine my identity and right to gain access to the car. STOP! She informed me that the key fob had a little slide button that released...the spare key. STOP!!! A real key! STOP!!!

I was in the car in a matter of seconds and on my way back to the apartment. STOP! The key fob worked after I parked at the apartment lot! GO!!! FIGURE!!! Don't you just love when the little things become big things only to turn out to be little things. The mind is a terrible thing to waste. I regress.

My weekend in Chattanooga was easy going to say the least. I stayed for two reasons. First, the mechanical subcontractor was working and I needed to be available, just in case. Second, I needed some time off from driving a long distance every weekend since Christmas. I spent the weekend running, walking, shopping and riding through some of the back roads of Chattanooga. Don't worry, I didn't spend too much time in the car. Just enough to get from one place to another while avoiding the usual traffic hot spots.

Changes are coming and I'm trying to get myself focused on what paths I will venture down. This job that I've had for the past nine months is looking like it may end soon. No word on when. Hopes are that it lasts until April. So I'm on the hunt for my next adventure. I say adventure because every job I held for the past 16 years has been some kind of learning adventure. New skills, new places and new places. Working industrial projects has the knack for giving variety to those who chance to work the contracts. Some of the factories you may see on Discovery Channel, Learning Channel or PBS are places I have helped build, rebuild or dismantle. So I welcome the next gig and the chance to learn something new.

Thank your boss for what you have. There are many still without. Many others who want better.

Kindest regards of the day!
P@

Entry for January 23, 2011

Week two without my camera (Gin requested it for the week). I dove into the archives and pulled out the hairy pic of my younger days. I'm guessing I was 18 or 19 at the time I broke the camera. What happened to all that hair? I really don't want to go back and investigate. I just thought you would get a kick out of this caveman look I sported in my youth.

Another week spent in Chattanooga for work. I know the time is winding down. I just don't know when the alarm goes off when I wake up again in my own bed during the work week. I have mixed feelings about the whole situation and where I'll be in the next quarter or next year. I've been keeping my eyes and ears open for opportunities. A person has to be a fool to think employment with one company until retirement is even an option.

Gin and I had an enjoyable weekend together. Without a concert to attend, we settled for shopping and DVR watching on Saturday night. Before heading home we stopped at Patrick's for some fun time with Nolan and Dean. They were freshly awake from their naps and ready for some Grams and Pappy time. I was fussed at by Nolan when we arrived. He was at the front door and I just got out of the  car. As I stared him down then took off my ball cap and threw it toward the front yard. Nolan stormed out of the house barefoot and fussed at me for throwing my hat.
"NO PAPPY!"
"Put your hat on!"
Gin and I had a good laugh over that one. We played with both boys for a little over an hour. Dean finally succumbed to hunger and the need to be fed and more sleep. Nolan was working on a bag of tortilla chips before our departure. A few good hugs and kisses were shared and we were off. Once home we enjoyed a spinach chicken pizza for dinner with a couple of cold ones to boot.

Today was a little more shopping, a lot of house work, room rearrangement and NFL playoffs on the big screen. I checked the kerosene heater for fuel, operation and cleanliness. I prepared the seed spreader with ice melt pellets in anticipation of Gin needing to treat the driveway before the potential storm this week when I'm gone. I moved a bunch of boxes and other unused items upstairs into storage. I also vacuumed the house and scrubbed the shower. Gin handled the laundry and rearrangement of the playroom for the TV and DVD player set up. We've been getting the room ready for a bed that Nolan can use at nap time and sleepovers.

I can't wait for spring to arrive. This has to be one of the coldest winter seasons we've had since we moved to South Carolina in 1994. We usually have a few days to several weeks of temperatures above 50 degrees between November and now. I'm not sure if we can count on one hand that many warm days. Oh well, keep your stick on the ice and your head in the air. It will thaw out eventually. 

P@

Entry for January 16, 2011

I had to look back to see when I wrote last week's post. No need to rehash old news from the previous time we visited. I'll pick up the events beginning Wednesday last week. Gin and I made it out of the house mid morning for a trip to Sam's Club for what was needed at home for the remainder of the week. The roads were mostly clear with the exception for SC-292 and parts of US-29 at I-26. The parking lot at Sam's was pretty slushy and still very slick. I dropped Gin off at the door and picked her up there when the cart was filled. No need for silly falls on hard cold ground for her. Easpecially before my trip back out to Chattanooga.

I left home a little after 1:00 heading to Chattanooga via Atlanta. NOT my favorite route to take. The forecast for Asheville and the western NC mountains left me little choice. Atlanta was a nightmare. different parts of the interstate were clear and then suddenly a sheet of ice would appear without warning. I'm not talking a bout black ice. I'm talking about hard packed snow that converted to ice. There was a lot of stopped traffic at different areas and even more bobbing and weaving to avoid the obstacles. Even with all the frustration of the Atlanta hub, I made it to Chattanooga at a respectable time.

The work week was short since I only had to cover for Thursday through Saturday. The job is still progressing nicely and our subcontractor is back on site to complete their obligations.

I finally got out to run Friday evening after work. I was worried about black ice on the Riverpark trail and encountered a few spots. Overall I had a nice 3 mile run to get back into the swing of things. I'll pick back up on a more regular schedule of running this week. I'm still considering the Greenville News 5k this coming Saturday. I'll have to see how the rest of the week plays out before I commit.

Saturday I left Chattanooga for an overnight visit back home and a concert in Greenville. Gin had wanted to see Jonathan Byrd at the Coffee Underground but really didn't want to go alone. I decided to go ahead and join her since our contractor opted to take Saturday off. While driving through Knoxville I received a call from Jonathan. He along with his wife, Mary, and son, Rowan, were looking for a room for the night. We've always offered an open invitation for him to stay when visiting the area. The plans were set and we were in for a night of family, friends and music.

I dropped by the grocery store before arriving home. Gin had the house prepared for our guests. Once I arrived, Gin and I prepared peppers, onions, mushrooms and chicken for some Chicken Philly sandwiches. Jonathan and family arrived around 5:30 and were escorted to their room. Mary and Rowan settled in the play room for some well deserved activities necessary for a toddler. Jonathan didn't have time to eat due to stage and sound set up for his show with Alexa Woodward. Gin visited with Mary and Rowan while I prepared dinner.

Not to be rushing things, Gin and I ate our dinner and gave Mary all the essential survival instructions for staying in our humble home alone. It is something she and Jonathan are used to in their life of musical meandering through the country. She had all she needed and was content on the amenities and the abundance of toys for Rowan to be entertained with.

We were parked and in the Coffee Underground shortly before 8:00 and were able to visit with Jonathan a little before his set. Jonathan opened up the show for Alexa. He played a little bit from each albumn and shared some pretty interesting and comical stories to lay the ground work for the tunes. He does this when the audience is new to his music. It makes good marketing sense to give the variety so that something might encourage a CD purchase.

Alexa Woodward's set was hard for me to get into at first. As she moved through her play list I began to get a better understanding about her style of music and the life it brings to the performance. To put her music in a certain genre is nearly impossible. I guess it could be New Age Folk if anything. Overall I enjoyed her performance. After the show we spoke to Jonathan a little more, then bugged out for the ancestral manse. Jonathan was a little later getting there and was settled in a little after midnight.

I fixed a veggie omelet breakfast using some of the peppers, onions, mushrooms and spinach from the previous meal left overs. With scrambled eggs and cheddar cheese added, we had a feast fit for the ordinary common folk like us. I added turkey bacon to the meal and picked up hot coffee from the local C-store since we have no other means to make coffee in our establishment.

Though the time was brief in our visit with Jonathan, Mary and Rowan, we enjoyed hosting a hard working family. A friend in need is a friend indeed. It is good to be able to reach out a be friends with such a talented musician and genuinely good human being. One of the many reasons why we support the independent artists rather than mainstream media giants who have no reason or desire to relate to everyday people.

Have a great week and be a friend to someone who needs it.
P@

Entry for January 11, 2011

Last week was a fairly short work week considering the return back from a holiday break. I arrived in Chattanooga Monday after lunch. A short while after being there I was informed that my weekend off would be the upcoming weekend. This worked out great for Gin and I. We wanted to attend the Jonathan Byrd and Dromedary show in Carrboro, NC that was scheduled for Saturday night. After discussing it with Gin, which didn’t take much convincing, I was online making the ticket purchase and reward points hotel reservations. I emailed my brother-in-law Ray to see if he and Laurie were interested in meeting us there. Ray was also more than willing, but Laurie was scheduled to work. Ray decided to attend anyway.

We arrived in Burlington late Saturday morning and met with Ray for lunch and a visit to Ed McKay’s used books and CDs. Gin picked up two CDS from Kate Campbell. Ray picked up several CDs to add to his million +1 collection. After the CD store Gin and I checked in at the Hampton Inn where I left her to relax. Ray and I made it out to Cedarock Park outside of Burlington for a round of disc golf. This park was recommended to me by Jonathan Byrd. The wind was strong and the chill was like a knife. I think both played against me on this course. A lot of long baskets which was tough in with the wind we were experiencing. Ray did much better than I for the most of the course. I was just trying to make it to the end. I would like to return there with better weather conditions and more time.

Saturday night was the event of the weekend, a reunion concert with Jonathan Byrd and Dromedary. The group pre-sold 100 tickets back in November to guarantee the show would happen. They included renowned double bass player Robbie Link to the bill to fulfill the rich sound of the show. Jonathan opened up with “The Waitress” and followed with some of his new material from the recently released Cackalack CD. He then yielded the stage to Dromedary’s Rob McMaken and Andrew Reissiger. We were treated to three tunes from the duo. The way these two musicians play and feed off of each other’s rhythm is something special to witness.

The band took a short break to meet and greet the 250+ guests before the feature of the night. We all spent a little time speaking to Rob, Andrew and Jonathan. Before long the musicians were assembled on stage and the album was cued up in our hearts, minds and ears. Attending a performance in which the entire record is played from start to finish because it was designed to be played that way is amazing. The flow from song to song with instrumental changes, love and disparity, hope and joy, is a pleasure to hear. Not only the lyrics, but the instruments themselves speak to the soul as you are collected and taken on the musical journey.

Before we knew it, the album was complete. Then an encore was provided by the musicians and we were presented with a very entertaining and animated rendition of The Cocaine Kid. Rob provided the appropriate gestures for visual stimulation of the rolling wrap Jonathan delivered of the originally named Mesopotamia Wrap.  Jonathan closed the show with a new song he had not released nor played for a live audience. We were truly lucky to be a part of the performance in Carrboro. A night I’ll remember for a long time.

Gin and I traveled back Sunday morning with a side trip to the Ikea store in Charlotte. We picked up some replacement dishes and enjoyed a Swedish meatball lunch. A stop at the grocery store before arriving home helped prepare ourselves for the next snow event which was predicted to start Sunday night.

And it did! We were dusted with six inches of dry powder snow before it turned to 10 hours of sleet. The only thing I did Monday was clear the steps of the snow, then apply ice melt before the sleet arrived. Today I ventured out to begin the snow and ice removal. I managed to shovel the top half of the driveway and one side down to the mailbox. I also cleared the snow and ice from the rental car, Gin’s truck and the Lumina (better known as “Pappy’s Car”). This afternoon I finished the other half of the lower driveway and the area around the Lumina and where the trucks park.

I’m done. Cabin fever is breaking and I will probably travel on Wednesday afternoon.

Have a good week.

P@

Entry for January 3, 2011

 

Sunset at the Whalehead Club, Currituck Sound, Corolla, NC

Sunset on the Albemarle Sound, Nags Head, NC

Gin and I enjoyed our week plus a few days of time together. For the past seven months I have been working in Chattanooga as most of you already know. We had a lot of fun with Nolan and Dean, as well as with both of our families and our children. We loaded up a minivan for our trip to Nags Head. Good thing for the stow-n-go storage pockets and the roof top canvas bag. We were loaded down with luggage, gifts, coolers, babies and adults. Patrick, Jessica, Nolan and Dean joined our trek east for the 400+ mile journey east.

Our first stop was Rocky Mount for a light dinner and a sleep over at Mom and Dad's. Caris and Thomas arrived a little later in the evening and helped make it a full house. Although our visit was short, we had plenty of laughs, hugs and love for all. We were packed up again and on the road by mid morning to complete the voyage to the beach.

We arrived in Nags Head by mid afternoon. The weather was a little chilly and the house was as big as the previous six Christmas rentals. After unloading the van and settling items in the house, I was changed and hitting the road for a three mile jog. NC-12 is a boring run on the island. It is straight, flat and offers very little scenery. After running and cleaning up, the majority of Gin's family arrived at the house. It's a good thing I ran each day, because the consumption of cakes, cookies, pies and candies was plentiful.

We made a brief trip Friday afternoon to the Bodie Island lighthouse. Unfortunately the structure was in a renovation stage with scaffolding erected on all sides. We still managed to get some pretty pictures of the inlet and marsh on the east side of the lighthouse.

This year was our seventh Sloan family Christmas at the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The family shares a large beach house for the gathering. The first four years was in the town of Corolla just north of Kill Devil Hills. The past three years, including this year, have been on Nags Head. One of my favorite parts of the trip has been photographing sunrise on the Atlantic Ocean or sunset on the Albemarle Sound or Currituck Sound. The winter sky at sunset is so fiery and alive. The best display of color is with light cloud cover on the western horizon. The Whalehead Club is my favorite location because of the foot bridge and the small lagoon. The reflection of the skyline along with the shadows of the live oaks and bridge gives this location so much character and beauty. I find it odd that more people walk to the bridge to photograph the sunset. They don't know what they're missing when they're standing on the canvas.

 New Year Resolution? No big promises that will fail. I'll enjoy life's little surprises and welcome whatever is waiting for me around the corner. Family and friends are tops on my list of treasures. I'll not let the economy, politics or news of the world take that away from me.

Happy New Year!!!
P@