Well the day arrived. My Oldest is moving out.
I'm glad for him and wish him the best of luck. I know some things are going to hit home to him real soon, but if he has enough of a drive, then he will succeed.
He works part time in Fast Food, so money is tight, but he is sharing expenses with 2 other guys and their looking for a fourth bill payer.
He knows he can't afford his car and insurance, so I'm stuck with both. Of course the car stays here for now.
I'm not being cruel, but he had a decision to make. Freedom comes with a price. He could have stayed here and had room, board and all he had to do is make his vehicle payments or his own place.
I must be a different person. I cherished my Car growing up. It was my life. I probably worked on it more than it needed, wax the paint right off it sort of thing.
I only left after a argument with my mother. Nothing serious just enough to make me understand it was time to spread the wings.
There's no conflict here at home with him and us either. He is a good kid. He just wants to try it all out I suppose.
I'm pretty sure he'll be back, but I can't tell him that.
Now to make the room a Home Office.....that isn't right is it?
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
I guess I need to write something down this month.
It's been busy that last week or so at work. That's much different than it has been for the last 2 years.
Of course it was due to a foreclosure of a property with the last owners destroying the building electrical system when they left.
Took me the last week and a half to get it all running again, but it did help that we were the original installers of the wiring when the building was new.
This was back about 10 years ago and I worked for a company then. It wasn't my job to run, but I was there enough to remember much of what went where.
Funny that I can't recall where I just set my car keys, but I can remember certain wires, conduits and panels on a building over a decade ago.
Being that the main system was 480volts the new owner thought it would be best to bring me in before anyone walked the property.
With the amount of open wires, it probably saved a life.
I have the El Camino at the house now. No money to start anything on it, but I do need to get down and buy a Battery this week and try to get some oil pumped up over the top end of the engine and see what the Valve Stem Seal status is.
Pretty straight forward car, but I know nothing about Chevys. Being a Mopar Guy this looks all Greek to me.
I also dislike the fact that GM painted their engine compartments black. Looks second rate to me. Mopars were body color top bottom and anywhere else they could get the spray gun. I like that. Looks uniform.
The vehicle holds a special place to me, so I need to learn everything I can about it. It will be in the family for along time to come.
It's been busy that last week or so at work. That's much different than it has been for the last 2 years.
Of course it was due to a foreclosure of a property with the last owners destroying the building electrical system when they left.
Took me the last week and a half to get it all running again, but it did help that we were the original installers of the wiring when the building was new.
This was back about 10 years ago and I worked for a company then. It wasn't my job to run, but I was there enough to remember much of what went where.
Funny that I can't recall where I just set my car keys, but I can remember certain wires, conduits and panels on a building over a decade ago.
Being that the main system was 480volts the new owner thought it would be best to bring me in before anyone walked the property.
With the amount of open wires, it probably saved a life.
I have the El Camino at the house now. No money to start anything on it, but I do need to get down and buy a Battery this week and try to get some oil pumped up over the top end of the engine and see what the Valve Stem Seal status is.
Pretty straight forward car, but I know nothing about Chevys. Being a Mopar Guy this looks all Greek to me.
I also dislike the fact that GM painted their engine compartments black. Looks second rate to me. Mopars were body color top bottom and anywhere else they could get the spray gun. I like that. Looks uniform.
The vehicle holds a special place to me, so I need to learn everything I can about it. It will be in the family for along time to come.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
October Rain
It's finally here. Today we've been greeted with a steady rain all day. Started about 6 this morning and as of 10:30pm it's still coming down.
The National news has been saying all day that California is being "hammered", but that must be in other areas. It's been good, but nothing that would suggest flooding or mudslides. I guess people go stupid when California gets a little water.
It will be a welcome relief to not have dust everywhere and see the grass finally green up for a change.
I've become aware that Wrangler Brand Shoes are a POS. I bought a set a few months ago (sorta like hiking boots) and they have already fallen apart enough to get my feet wet today during the storm. Made In China :-(
I like Wolverine Brand shoes but the local shop wants $200 for them. Maybe Ebay....
We'll the truck was tested by the dealership and it's the computer that is bad. I did change the ignition switch and I'm glad I did because there were some burn marks on two of the terminals. However without the Power Train CM talking to the BCM, FCM, and Gauge Computer nothing is going to happen. Once they end up communicating the truck runs fine, but it's the wait that kills you.
I need to order a PCM @ $275.00, but it can wait for now. I do have another Truck I've been using.
The Dealership was kind enough to let me borrow the Truck's Factory Shop Manual(FSM), but those books are not like the old ones. All of the troubleshooting methods point directly to using a special computer to communicate with the truck and diagnose the problem. It's not like the old days where the answers were there in the pages. So without a few thousand dollars to purchase a special computer, I had it tested at the dealership.
I have no problem with computer running cars, since they do a better job than a mechanic's "special tuning", but I think they should last alot longer than they do since there isn't any moving parts.
They do have a benefit in telling you some of the problems associated with your car.
For example my son's Neon had a Check engine light come on the same day my truck died. By using the Key On/Off method, the car actually told me that the Cam Sensor was bad. Simple cheap part that wasn't easy to reach, but not that difficult to change either. So within the hour and $24 later the car was back in business.
I guess computers do have a place. Won't be long before they verbally speak and tell you the problem.
The National news has been saying all day that California is being "hammered", but that must be in other areas. It's been good, but nothing that would suggest flooding or mudslides. I guess people go stupid when California gets a little water.
It will be a welcome relief to not have dust everywhere and see the grass finally green up for a change.
I've become aware that Wrangler Brand Shoes are a POS. I bought a set a few months ago (sorta like hiking boots) and they have already fallen apart enough to get my feet wet today during the storm. Made In China :-(
I like Wolverine Brand shoes but the local shop wants $200 for them. Maybe Ebay....
We'll the truck was tested by the dealership and it's the computer that is bad. I did change the ignition switch and I'm glad I did because there were some burn marks on two of the terminals. However without the Power Train CM talking to the BCM, FCM, and Gauge Computer nothing is going to happen. Once they end up communicating the truck runs fine, but it's the wait that kills you.
I need to order a PCM @ $275.00, but it can wait for now. I do have another Truck I've been using.
The Dealership was kind enough to let me borrow the Truck's Factory Shop Manual(FSM), but those books are not like the old ones. All of the troubleshooting methods point directly to using a special computer to communicate with the truck and diagnose the problem. It's not like the old days where the answers were there in the pages. So without a few thousand dollars to purchase a special computer, I had it tested at the dealership.
I have no problem with computer running cars, since they do a better job than a mechanic's "special tuning", but I think they should last alot longer than they do since there isn't any moving parts.
They do have a benefit in telling you some of the problems associated with your car.
For example my son's Neon had a Check engine light come on the same day my truck died. By using the Key On/Off method, the car actually told me that the Cam Sensor was bad. Simple cheap part that wasn't easy to reach, but not that difficult to change either. So within the hour and $24 later the car was back in business.
I guess computers do have a place. Won't be long before they verbally speak and tell you the problem.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Cool Man
Finally some good weather to report. Mornings are in the low 50s and afternoons in the low 80s. All we need now is some rain.
It's almost guaranteed to rain the first week of November and the risk of rain in October is about three times more likely than September.
My 02 Ram Truck doesn't like the cold mornings. It's having a starting problem now. Turns over fine, but there's no ignition or spark. I have to wait until the gauges register then it starts right up. I talked to my friend that owns a Mopar Dealership and they seemed to think it's the ignition switch. At about $30 I figure it can't hurt to try.
The problem is that I need to tear open the steering column. That's going to be fun.
So today I loaded the 1994 Ram (240K+ miles) with my material and off I went. My 94 has been a really good work buddy. Now I'm not saying my 02 hasn't been, It has just that over 80,000 miles and this is the first thing I've ever had to do to it. So a gremlin here and there is expected. Especially when you figure I start and stop this truck a hundred times a day.
Work is a little better this week, but that's not saying much. I showed up to a remodel yesterday and open the door to find a bunch of wires dangling from the ceilings. The owner just tore the walls down and unhook all of the circuits and left me to figure them all out.
I did of course, but it took me till 3:00 today to finish. I sorta like jobs like that where Time and Material is the word of the day.
Wish that would happen everyday.....
It's almost guaranteed to rain the first week of November and the risk of rain in October is about three times more likely than September.
My 02 Ram Truck doesn't like the cold mornings. It's having a starting problem now. Turns over fine, but there's no ignition or spark. I have to wait until the gauges register then it starts right up. I talked to my friend that owns a Mopar Dealership and they seemed to think it's the ignition switch. At about $30 I figure it can't hurt to try.
The problem is that I need to tear open the steering column. That's going to be fun.
So today I loaded the 1994 Ram (240K+ miles) with my material and off I went. My 94 has been a really good work buddy. Now I'm not saying my 02 hasn't been, It has just that over 80,000 miles and this is the first thing I've ever had to do to it. So a gremlin here and there is expected. Especially when you figure I start and stop this truck a hundred times a day.
Work is a little better this week, but that's not saying much. I showed up to a remodel yesterday and open the door to find a bunch of wires dangling from the ceilings. The owner just tore the walls down and unhook all of the circuits and left me to figure them all out.
I did of course, but it took me till 3:00 today to finish. I sorta like jobs like that where Time and Material is the word of the day.
Wish that would happen everyday.....
Friday, September 18, 2009
Hot again
It's above 100F again. Getting old if I do say so myself.
I had to work in a small town nearby that is famous for their Raisins.
I found it unusual that many were all ready rolled up and some still had a few weeks to go.
Some times they will roll the paper trays up if rain threatens, but that is expensive and labor intensive. The rain was a few days ago so if the rolled trays were because of the weather, they should have been unrolled by now. It probably had to do with some fields being picked sooner than others since there is a labor shortage for pickers lately.
In any case the photo is from a field that will need another few weeks of drying to complete.
Doesn't look like we had any rain from the photo does it?
Monday, September 14, 2009
Little weather change
I woke up this morning to rain.
Although not unheard of, it is rare for California to get rain in September.
You can almost put money on having the first big rain storm in the early days of November. This one was enough to water down everything, but it will be dry again by tomorrow. The late fall storms will change California from brown to green within a few weeks.
I take credit for it, since for some reason I decided to shut the sprinkler timers off yesterday. I must have known it was coming.
Unlike the rest of the country, most of our storms come out of the North West off Alaska and are generally cold storms. I've never seen a large rain event out here where it was hot and muggy.
If I remember correctly it was about May since we had enough rain to have water standing in the streets. After this many weeks of heat and dust, the rain sure cleared up the air today. It was nice to see a dark sky with clouds low to the ground, wind blowing, and cool air filling the atmosphere.
I'm sure the Raisin Farmers were not too pleased. With the grapes on the ground and about 70-80% dry, this could ruin more than a few trays.
Sometimes it's best if you really think about it. Those farmers produce big crops every year and sometimes it helps in the long run to damage some produce to make the profit margin climb. Too many going to market and the price falls.
I just hope nobody was financially ruined. Many farmers hold insurance policies and some take them straight to the Dehydrators for drying anyway.
I'm sure there were some Hikers and Campers up in the mountains that got surprised this morning. I haven't heard anything about snow fall, so maybe everyone up there is okay. No word on Lightning strikes so if there wasn't any, it probably helped the Forestry Department, or at least gave them some relief from fires.
For the Average Joe the weather was a welcome change.
I know I enjoyed it.
Late this week they are forecasting 100F again...
Although not unheard of, it is rare for California to get rain in September.
You can almost put money on having the first big rain storm in the early days of November. This one was enough to water down everything, but it will be dry again by tomorrow. The late fall storms will change California from brown to green within a few weeks.
I take credit for it, since for some reason I decided to shut the sprinkler timers off yesterday. I must have known it was coming.
Unlike the rest of the country, most of our storms come out of the North West off Alaska and are generally cold storms. I've never seen a large rain event out here where it was hot and muggy.
If I remember correctly it was about May since we had enough rain to have water standing in the streets. After this many weeks of heat and dust, the rain sure cleared up the air today. It was nice to see a dark sky with clouds low to the ground, wind blowing, and cool air filling the atmosphere.
I'm sure the Raisin Farmers were not too pleased. With the grapes on the ground and about 70-80% dry, this could ruin more than a few trays.
Sometimes it's best if you really think about it. Those farmers produce big crops every year and sometimes it helps in the long run to damage some produce to make the profit margin climb. Too many going to market and the price falls.
I just hope nobody was financially ruined. Many farmers hold insurance policies and some take them straight to the Dehydrators for drying anyway.
I'm sure there were some Hikers and Campers up in the mountains that got surprised this morning. I haven't heard anything about snow fall, so maybe everyone up there is okay. No word on Lightning strikes so if there wasn't any, it probably helped the Forestry Department, or at least gave them some relief from fires.
For the Average Joe the weather was a welcome change.
I know I enjoyed it.
Late this week they are forecasting 100F again...
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Lap Dogs
Nothing cooler than a Lap Dog.
To this day I miss my Dalmatian. Honestly I still shed a tear now and then and it's even been a few years since he left me, but having these small Female Min Pins is just awesome.
The two girls are having a ball with life and are constantly on the move.
They guard the house and let no Man, Woman, or Cat pass without clearance.
They follow each other in and out the door and wrestle at all hours.
They both discover they are tired at the same time.
They both like the same lap at the same time.
They are perfect sisters.
Sugar is the skinny one and resembles a deer when she walks. When she wants held, one must be ready and time her jump just perfect. She's the master of getting air.
Lilly is stocky one. Her jump is more like rear feet planted, one front in the air and the expression of "come down and get me".
The funny thing is Lilly will exit off the top of the bed with no problem, but Sugar doesn't take to skydiving very well.
They both like to howl.
It's like a fire alarm. When one starts the other begins. Usually when Mom or Dad come home they begin this procedure. It takes some time to reset their system to silent mode.
I asked the breeder if his did the same thing?
"Yes all six and all at the same time" he replied.
To this day neither dog will let my son in the house without a stern warning.
Both like to be held very much and that's the purpose of this posting. Nothing better than coming home greeted by my security patrol and being occupied for the next hour by holding my Lap Dogs.
Lilly was just on my lap. Sugar barked, Lilly went to investigate, Sugar got the place on my lap.
Pretty smart.
To this day I miss my Dalmatian. Honestly I still shed a tear now and then and it's even been a few years since he left me, but having these small Female Min Pins is just awesome.
The two girls are having a ball with life and are constantly on the move.
They guard the house and let no Man, Woman, or Cat pass without clearance.
They follow each other in and out the door and wrestle at all hours.
They both discover they are tired at the same time.
They both like the same lap at the same time.
They are perfect sisters.
Sugar is the skinny one and resembles a deer when she walks. When she wants held, one must be ready and time her jump just perfect. She's the master of getting air.
Lilly is stocky one. Her jump is more like rear feet planted, one front in the air and the expression of "come down and get me".
The funny thing is Lilly will exit off the top of the bed with no problem, but Sugar doesn't take to skydiving very well.
They both like to howl.
It's like a fire alarm. When one starts the other begins. Usually when Mom or Dad come home they begin this procedure. It takes some time to reset their system to silent mode.
I asked the breeder if his did the same thing?
"Yes all six and all at the same time" he replied.
To this day neither dog will let my son in the house without a stern warning.
Both like to be held very much and that's the purpose of this posting. Nothing better than coming home greeted by my security patrol and being occupied for the next hour by holding my Lap Dogs.
Lilly was just on my lap. Sugar barked, Lilly went to investigate, Sugar got the place on my lap.
Pretty smart.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Best Cat in the World
Our Feline Matriarch passed away this Thursday afternoon.
Stripes was almost 18 years old when she left us due to old age.
We knew it was coming for the last few months, but it's still hard to imagine her gone now.
My wife had already laid out a blanket for her when I got home and I spent some of the last few minutes of her life with her. My wife was there to the very end, but I had to leave for an appointment. Of course I gave her some comfort and let her know I was there before I had to go, but she passed away as I pulled out of the driveway.
I'm fully aware she waited till I got home to say goodbye to me.
Such a good Cat all of her life and the longest living pet I've ever had the opportunity to share life with.
I'm sad of course, but I wish all pets could live the life Stripes did. She had such a long, enjoyable time on this Earth. Never injured or sick. Just a Happy, Well cared for Cat.
I will miss her greatly.
She is buried next to her two best friends, Tyson our Dalmatian and Rocko our Pomeranian.
Stripes was almost 18 years old when she left us due to old age.
We knew it was coming for the last few months, but it's still hard to imagine her gone now.
My wife had already laid out a blanket for her when I got home and I spent some of the last few minutes of her life with her. My wife was there to the very end, but I had to leave for an appointment. Of course I gave her some comfort and let her know I was there before I had to go, but she passed away as I pulled out of the driveway.
I'm fully aware she waited till I got home to say goodbye to me.
Such a good Cat all of her life and the longest living pet I've ever had the opportunity to share life with.
I'm sad of course, but I wish all pets could live the life Stripes did. She had such a long, enjoyable time on this Earth. Never injured or sick. Just a Happy, Well cared for Cat.
I will miss her greatly.
She is buried next to her two best friends, Tyson our Dalmatian and Rocko our Pomeranian.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Going Postal
Ever had one of those days?
I know I was in a hurry and thus expanded on the situation, but good lord the angry white male just about made an appearance.
I needed to go to somewhere and before I did that I needed to stop by a bank (not mine) to make a payment. My daughter wanted something from a fast food joint so I agree to stop there first. I needed to return home with the food since she didn't want to go. No problem. If I knew what was coming. It would have been better anyway.
20 minutes in the Drive-Thru wasn't enough. I'm only allowed to legally make the right turn out of their parking lot and down the freeway. I enter the On Ramp and I am greeted by a 3 mile long Traffic Jam. I just need to go down to the next exit but that takes another 20 minutes.
So I accomplish the task and return the food home and thus I'm on my way. Traffic in our small town isn't Los Angeles rated, but to the bank it was bad enough.
I enter the bank and immediately wonder which country I'm in. I must be the only English speaking individual in the entire building. I also note I'm going to be customer #16 waiting in line. Over 20 tellers and I'm still about 15 minutes from being helped.
The teller notes my bank name on my check and asks if I'm happy with them?
Uh yeah..I don't have to wait in my bank.
Returning from my appointment later in the night I think maybe some KFC would be nice for Dinner. I haven't had it in awhile so I pull up and walk in.
Piece of cake I think no waiting.
The cashier takes my order and starts to fill it.
She comes back and says "They are out of Chicken".
OMG....are you serious?
15 Minutes for it to be cooked is what I'm told.
I swear to god that by any International Law, I had the right to kill everyone there but I step back and take a breath.
"Why didn't you tell me this before you took my money?"
"Well we have chicken, just not the type you want".
I think that probably makes perfect sense in what ever country she originally is from.
I ask for my money back and I get a look like I'm nuts. I tell her the only other option isn't going to be as friendly. She returns my money, but only after a manager (younger than the cashier)is forced to cast a spell or something that takes another 5 minutes.
In this economy I am amazed at the lack of service a customer gets in any store.
WalMart is busier than ever and people need employment, yet there are only 2-3 registers open on any given day with twice the number of employees "guarding" the exits. Like the 80 year old lady in the scooter posing as a security guard is going to stop someone anyway.
I just would like to get whatever I need, as quick as possible, and leave with the least amount of resistance on my way home.
Is that too much to ask?
I know I was in a hurry and thus expanded on the situation, but good lord the angry white male just about made an appearance.
I needed to go to somewhere and before I did that I needed to stop by a bank (not mine) to make a payment. My daughter wanted something from a fast food joint so I agree to stop there first. I needed to return home with the food since she didn't want to go. No problem. If I knew what was coming. It would have been better anyway.
20 minutes in the Drive-Thru wasn't enough. I'm only allowed to legally make the right turn out of their parking lot and down the freeway. I enter the On Ramp and I am greeted by a 3 mile long Traffic Jam. I just need to go down to the next exit but that takes another 20 minutes.
So I accomplish the task and return the food home and thus I'm on my way. Traffic in our small town isn't Los Angeles rated, but to the bank it was bad enough.
I enter the bank and immediately wonder which country I'm in. I must be the only English speaking individual in the entire building. I also note I'm going to be customer #16 waiting in line. Over 20 tellers and I'm still about 15 minutes from being helped.
The teller notes my bank name on my check and asks if I'm happy with them?
Uh yeah..I don't have to wait in my bank.
Returning from my appointment later in the night I think maybe some KFC would be nice for Dinner. I haven't had it in awhile so I pull up and walk in.
Piece of cake I think no waiting.
The cashier takes my order and starts to fill it.
She comes back and says "They are out of Chicken".
OMG....are you serious?
15 Minutes for it to be cooked is what I'm told.
I swear to god that by any International Law, I had the right to kill everyone there but I step back and take a breath.
"Why didn't you tell me this before you took my money?"
"Well we have chicken, just not the type you want".
I think that probably makes perfect sense in what ever country she originally is from.
I ask for my money back and I get a look like I'm nuts. I tell her the only other option isn't going to be as friendly. She returns my money, but only after a manager (younger than the cashier)is forced to cast a spell or something that takes another 5 minutes.
In this economy I am amazed at the lack of service a customer gets in any store.
WalMart is busier than ever and people need employment, yet there are only 2-3 registers open on any given day with twice the number of employees "guarding" the exits. Like the 80 year old lady in the scooter posing as a security guard is going to stop someone anyway.
I just would like to get whatever I need, as quick as possible, and leave with the least amount of resistance on my way home.
Is that too much to ask?
Monday, July 27, 2009
Vehicles I've known
I figure posting vehicles would be better than Girls..
1968 El Camino- My Dad's. I learned to drive in this 3 Speed Chevy. The only requirements were to reach the pedals and not hit anything. Luckily I had an area that included curves, hills, intersections, and everything else needed, but with little traffic. I own it now. Original Ash Gold and Tan, but painted Blue since the 70s. Probably will be painted Candy Apple Red or back to it's Greenish Gold.
1978 GMC Truck- I took my Driver's test in this. I did well so I suppose the El Camino training worked. I spent many days driving the GMC out to the Hay Farmer's place and loading up as much as it would carry, and hauling it back to the Ranch.
1970 Dodge Charger 500- Originally a 318 Butterscotch (Correction- Cream Y3)Car, I bought it painted a nice Root Beer Brown. I Tee-boned a AMC Hornet with this car and the witnesses said it sounded like 2 Sherman Tanks hitting each other. No it wasn't my fault.
I had it repaired and changed the color to a really nice Burgundy. It was striking with it's White top and Western Cyclones. I sold it, wrecked again, after I was rear ended by a lady doing her check book while driving.
1970ish- Plymouth Satellite 4 door. I purchased this car for the 383 that I installed in the Charger. Sold it within days of making the engine change.
1987 Mitsubishi Might Max- Cool little truck that was cheap to buy and was my first new car. It was stolen out of my driveway and rolled a few blocks away. They caught the thief, but I never got my deductible back.
1988 Dodge Dakota- White with Blue Interior. I figured I better stick with an American truck since they weren't stealing them at that time. It was a perfect running vehicle till the day I traded it in.
1964 Chevy Corvette- White with Black Interior. Never drove it much, since it always overheated and something always went wrong with it. 4 Speed and a pumped 327. Actually this car was owned by Jimmy Houston the Fisherman on TV. My Brother in law owns it now.
1994 Dodge Ram 2500- My most favorite vehicle I've ever owned. I still have it with over 240K Miles on the ODO. It's starts every time. I relegated it to being what I call my Home Depot Truck. I drive it sparingly and more often than not, just down to the Depot. Blue and Grey.
2002 Dodge Ram 1500- White with Dark Blue. My current truck. I bought it when the miles started to climb on the 94. Great Truck as well.
1950 Dodge Sedan- My Street Rod. Never did a a lot with it. Red with Black and Red Interior. It already had a 318 V8 12Volt conversion done to it. Sold it back to the original owner.
1966 Dodge Charger- Project car. Originally KK1 Turquoise with Black. Poly 318. I owned this car for 3 years and drove it only a few feet before starting a restoration. Got bored with it sitting there and sold it last year.
1979 Dodge Magnum- ST1 Lt Cashmire with Tan. 360/4bbl. My "Fun" car. I don't drive it alot either, but still have it for now. Very clean survivor and has taken 2nd in the local car show. I lost to a brand new Dodge Challenger.
1979 Chrysler Cordoba- same as the Magnum's power plant, but Dove Grey with Red Interior. Never had many plans for it, but I couldn't let it be destroyed. I have it for sale, but the market is slow. Nice vehicle though.
I haven't included the cars I bought for my wife's daily drivers. I don't remember the model years but they were as follows:
87ish Dodge Colt, 88ish Ford Aerostar, 91ish Ford Aerostar, 2003(?) Honda Civic, 2005 Chrysler Pacifica, and now the 2007 Toyota Camry.
Oh...I own a 2005 Dodge Neon too. If my son would ever save up his money to the point of buying it, I'd be more than happy to sign it over and strike it from my insurance policy.
I've known but never owned 2 airplanes. I just flew them anytime I wanted or had the cash to.
Triple 6 Victor was a 1975 C172. Fantastic airplane and completed my flight training in it.
Zero 2 Uniform- Older model C172, probably 1972. I last flew PIC in this aircraft.
I've flown (although little time) in 2 others and it was dual.
77 Hotel- Nicest 172 I've ever seen and a T210 that for some reason I didn't record in the Pilot's log.
I feel I should put all this down while I remember it, but it's safe to assume I've forgotten one along the way.
Posting vehicles, instead of girls also has a side benefit in keeping my marriage intact........
1968 El Camino- My Dad's. I learned to drive in this 3 Speed Chevy. The only requirements were to reach the pedals and not hit anything. Luckily I had an area that included curves, hills, intersections, and everything else needed, but with little traffic. I own it now. Original Ash Gold and Tan, but painted Blue since the 70s. Probably will be painted Candy Apple Red or back to it's Greenish Gold.
1978 GMC Truck- I took my Driver's test in this. I did well so I suppose the El Camino training worked. I spent many days driving the GMC out to the Hay Farmer's place and loading up as much as it would carry, and hauling it back to the Ranch.
1970 Dodge Charger 500- Originally a 318 Butterscotch (Correction- Cream Y3)Car, I bought it painted a nice Root Beer Brown. I Tee-boned a AMC Hornet with this car and the witnesses said it sounded like 2 Sherman Tanks hitting each other. No it wasn't my fault.
I had it repaired and changed the color to a really nice Burgundy. It was striking with it's White top and Western Cyclones. I sold it, wrecked again, after I was rear ended by a lady doing her check book while driving.
1970ish- Plymouth Satellite 4 door. I purchased this car for the 383 that I installed in the Charger. Sold it within days of making the engine change.
1987 Mitsubishi Might Max- Cool little truck that was cheap to buy and was my first new car. It was stolen out of my driveway and rolled a few blocks away. They caught the thief, but I never got my deductible back.
1988 Dodge Dakota- White with Blue Interior. I figured I better stick with an American truck since they weren't stealing them at that time. It was a perfect running vehicle till the day I traded it in.
1964 Chevy Corvette- White with Black Interior. Never drove it much, since it always overheated and something always went wrong with it. 4 Speed and a pumped 327. Actually this car was owned by Jimmy Houston the Fisherman on TV. My Brother in law owns it now.
1994 Dodge Ram 2500- My most favorite vehicle I've ever owned. I still have it with over 240K Miles on the ODO. It's starts every time. I relegated it to being what I call my Home Depot Truck. I drive it sparingly and more often than not, just down to the Depot. Blue and Grey.
2002 Dodge Ram 1500- White with Dark Blue. My current truck. I bought it when the miles started to climb on the 94. Great Truck as well.
1950 Dodge Sedan- My Street Rod. Never did a a lot with it. Red with Black and Red Interior. It already had a 318 V8 12Volt conversion done to it. Sold it back to the original owner.
1966 Dodge Charger- Project car. Originally KK1 Turquoise with Black. Poly 318. I owned this car for 3 years and drove it only a few feet before starting a restoration. Got bored with it sitting there and sold it last year.
1979 Dodge Magnum- ST1 Lt Cashmire with Tan. 360/4bbl. My "Fun" car. I don't drive it alot either, but still have it for now. Very clean survivor and has taken 2nd in the local car show. I lost to a brand new Dodge Challenger.
1979 Chrysler Cordoba- same as the Magnum's power plant, but Dove Grey with Red Interior. Never had many plans for it, but I couldn't let it be destroyed. I have it for sale, but the market is slow. Nice vehicle though.
I haven't included the cars I bought for my wife's daily drivers. I don't remember the model years but they were as follows:
87ish Dodge Colt, 88ish Ford Aerostar, 91ish Ford Aerostar, 2003(?) Honda Civic, 2005 Chrysler Pacifica, and now the 2007 Toyota Camry.
Oh...I own a 2005 Dodge Neon too. If my son would ever save up his money to the point of buying it, I'd be more than happy to sign it over and strike it from my insurance policy.
I've known but never owned 2 airplanes. I just flew them anytime I wanted or had the cash to.
Triple 6 Victor was a 1975 C172. Fantastic airplane and completed my flight training in it.
Zero 2 Uniform- Older model C172, probably 1972. I last flew PIC in this aircraft.
I've flown (although little time) in 2 others and it was dual.
77 Hotel- Nicest 172 I've ever seen and a T210 that for some reason I didn't record in the Pilot's log.
I feel I should put all this down while I remember it, but it's safe to assume I've forgotten one along the way.
Posting vehicles, instead of girls also has a side benefit in keeping my marriage intact........
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Coolest Cars
You have your list?
To me cars don't have to be fast, expensive, or rare to be considered cool. It could be the look, the engine, personal memories, whatever. You have to realize I'm a Mopar Nut and thus that figures into the list.
The below is just my all time favorites, maybe not yours.
10- 1969 Camaro SS- Classic look Chevy F body. Anything that superseded the Corvair had to be cool. Downside is, they are really overpriced for what you get.
9- 1964 Chevy Corvette- I actually had one for a few years. Nothing will garner looks like a Convertible Vette, but damn if that thing felt like driving a skateboard.
8- 1970 Ford Mach 1- Normal people would place a GT350 into the list, but when I was young I knew a few guys with Machs. What's not to like about a car that includes Air Dams and Spoilers? Other than a rear window that would melt a penny if left in the back seat, it's a nice looking car.
7- 1970 340 Duster- Go ahead let me have it, but at $2000 list for a Mopar Rapid Transit vehicle? Shoot.. I'll take one. Of course they've gone up in price, but still relatively cheap to restore.
6- VW Bus- What the Hell?....yep I like them, I like them alot. Any Vehicle that was not only cool to drive, but you could live in it? Well that's just Far Out Man...
5- 1937 Ford Cabriolet- When talking Street Rods, this car is what comes to mind for most people. I absolutely love the looks of these machines.
4- 1970 Plymouth Superbird- The only production car that actually needed a wing. For those that know what it is, it's definitely cool. Those that don't, want to know why it's so ugly and who's idea was the towel rack and nose cone?
Speed my friends..Speed.
3- The New Dodge Challenger- Power, looks, and Modern Comfort. I'd take this over the original version any day.
2- 1970 Hemi Cuda- 426Hemi, Shaker Hood, Dana 60, AND just plain old Bad Boy Looks?...I feel the need.
1- 2nd Generation Dodge Charger- I included the family since I've never been able to make my mind up between the 1969 and 1970 Model years. The 69 is the Charger everyone wants, but I owned a 70 and to me the grill and wrap around bumper goes better with the car. I dislike the 68s due to round tail and marker lights.
This generation of vehicles had the power and looks like their E Body counterparts, but more room.
I think this car above all else epitomizes the US Muscle Car Era.
As you can probably tell, I'm not a big fan of Fins. I don't mind them so much, but I just think people's era reflects more in their choice of cars (Tri Fives for example) rather than comfort and looks. My era was different and thus I don't care for the older cars as much.
That's not to say I don't respect or enjoy the 50s era vehicles, they just aren't my top choices.
I do like the Two-Tone paint jobs the 50s brought us. A nice Blue or Green 57 Chevy with a Cream upper? That's pretty my friends.
Everything about these cars is big. From the steering wheels to the tail fins. That's not always a good thing in my eyes.
Well that's my list, I'm sure there are people out there than totally disagree with me, so let me know what you favorites are.
To me cars don't have to be fast, expensive, or rare to be considered cool. It could be the look, the engine, personal memories, whatever. You have to realize I'm a Mopar Nut and thus that figures into the list.
The below is just my all time favorites, maybe not yours.
10- 1969 Camaro SS- Classic look Chevy F body. Anything that superseded the Corvair had to be cool. Downside is, they are really overpriced for what you get.
9- 1964 Chevy Corvette- I actually had one for a few years. Nothing will garner looks like a Convertible Vette, but damn if that thing felt like driving a skateboard.
8- 1970 Ford Mach 1- Normal people would place a GT350 into the list, but when I was young I knew a few guys with Machs. What's not to like about a car that includes Air Dams and Spoilers? Other than a rear window that would melt a penny if left in the back seat, it's a nice looking car.
7- 1970 340 Duster- Go ahead let me have it, but at $2000 list for a Mopar Rapid Transit vehicle? Shoot.. I'll take one. Of course they've gone up in price, but still relatively cheap to restore.
6- VW Bus- What the Hell?....yep I like them, I like them alot. Any Vehicle that was not only cool to drive, but you could live in it? Well that's just Far Out Man...
5- 1937 Ford Cabriolet- When talking Street Rods, this car is what comes to mind for most people. I absolutely love the looks of these machines.
4- 1970 Plymouth Superbird- The only production car that actually needed a wing. For those that know what it is, it's definitely cool. Those that don't, want to know why it's so ugly and who's idea was the towel rack and nose cone?
Speed my friends..Speed.
3- The New Dodge Challenger- Power, looks, and Modern Comfort. I'd take this over the original version any day.
2- 1970 Hemi Cuda- 426Hemi, Shaker Hood, Dana 60, AND just plain old Bad Boy Looks?...I feel the need.
1- 2nd Generation Dodge Charger- I included the family since I've never been able to make my mind up between the 1969 and 1970 Model years. The 69 is the Charger everyone wants, but I owned a 70 and to me the grill and wrap around bumper goes better with the car. I dislike the 68s due to round tail and marker lights.
This generation of vehicles had the power and looks like their E Body counterparts, but more room.
I think this car above all else epitomizes the US Muscle Car Era.
As you can probably tell, I'm not a big fan of Fins. I don't mind them so much, but I just think people's era reflects more in their choice of cars (Tri Fives for example) rather than comfort and looks. My era was different and thus I don't care for the older cars as much.
That's not to say I don't respect or enjoy the 50s era vehicles, they just aren't my top choices.
I do like the Two-Tone paint jobs the 50s brought us. A nice Blue or Green 57 Chevy with a Cream upper? That's pretty my friends.
Everything about these cars is big. From the steering wheels to the tail fins. That's not always a good thing in my eyes.
Well that's my list, I'm sure there are people out there than totally disagree with me, so let me know what you favorites are.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
I'm still around
I've started using Facebook. I sort of enjoy it.
I've reconnected with some old friends from the High School Days and to me, that made it all worthwhile.
You share so much and grow up so fast with these people.
To just fade away from each other is really a shame.
I think, like most people, my friends and I were all really close. I never lost a personal friend, but I can't count the times something had to be watching over us.
I've worked on 100 foot lifts, live electrical buses, and been through aviation stall training. Nothing came close to killing me more than my youth.
We weren't relatively speaking stupid or did things like drugs, just normal stuff kids do and go through when your either trying to impress your buddies or..god forbid a girl.
I recall one night there were three of us guys and three girls crammed in a lifted 1972 GMC 4X4 and the driver, which was like a brother to me, yelled "Let's get sideways".
I just remember seeing through the windshield the stars in the sky starting to roll and thinking this is going to hurt. I closed my eyes and after a loud bang I started to taste glass in my mouth.
Witnesses say the truck flipped in the air and landed right on it's cab with no roll bar and slid down the street.
I remember that part, since I had my hands on the inside roof of the cab and recall the heat coming through due to friction.
The speed was enough to fold one of the 40+" truck tires off the rim and start the roll sequence.
When we came to a stop, I noticed the driver wasn't there. I also noticed the windshield gone. I pushed the girl on my lap out the opening, I went out, then helped the other two girls escape. The right passenger (another buddy) came out right after the third girl. I found out later the driver busted his side glass and got out before any of us.......some friend..lol
The girl I was out that night with suffered the only injuries, which were only a few stitches to her ear.
Not my first accident and not my last, but enough to make you wonder out how close one comes and how fast it can happen.
I gave up aviation when I saw 3 aircraft crash in front of me on three different occasions. I actually love flying, but thought I'd better raise the kids and watch them leave before returning to it.
But hey that's life. You either enjoy it or collect dust.
I'm just sad that I've let all my memories of my friends collect dust over the years...
I've reconnected with some old friends from the High School Days and to me, that made it all worthwhile.
You share so much and grow up so fast with these people.
To just fade away from each other is really a shame.
I think, like most people, my friends and I were all really close. I never lost a personal friend, but I can't count the times something had to be watching over us.
I've worked on 100 foot lifts, live electrical buses, and been through aviation stall training. Nothing came close to killing me more than my youth.
We weren't relatively speaking stupid or did things like drugs, just normal stuff kids do and go through when your either trying to impress your buddies or..god forbid a girl.
I recall one night there were three of us guys and three girls crammed in a lifted 1972 GMC 4X4 and the driver, which was like a brother to me, yelled "Let's get sideways".
I just remember seeing through the windshield the stars in the sky starting to roll and thinking this is going to hurt. I closed my eyes and after a loud bang I started to taste glass in my mouth.
Witnesses say the truck flipped in the air and landed right on it's cab with no roll bar and slid down the street.
I remember that part, since I had my hands on the inside roof of the cab and recall the heat coming through due to friction.
The speed was enough to fold one of the 40+" truck tires off the rim and start the roll sequence.
When we came to a stop, I noticed the driver wasn't there. I also noticed the windshield gone. I pushed the girl on my lap out the opening, I went out, then helped the other two girls escape. The right passenger (another buddy) came out right after the third girl. I found out later the driver busted his side glass and got out before any of us.......some friend..lol
The girl I was out that night with suffered the only injuries, which were only a few stitches to her ear.
Not my first accident and not my last, but enough to make you wonder out how close one comes and how fast it can happen.
I gave up aviation when I saw 3 aircraft crash in front of me on three different occasions. I actually love flying, but thought I'd better raise the kids and watch them leave before returning to it.
But hey that's life. You either enjoy it or collect dust.
I'm just sad that I've let all my memories of my friends collect dust over the years...
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
It's late
but I forgot to run the water earlier today. So I'm still up and waiting for the sprinkler to finish
It's funny that we have a built in automatic system over our one acre lot, but I don't use the front yard sprinklers for the lawn. The wind always seems to blow in the evening and it subsequently sprays over the cars. So I use just the hose and a small $4 sprinkler head and move it around. We are on a water system, so we can only water every other day. I don't mind, but nights like this I wish I would have remembered it was our day to water.
Actually the whole neighborhood owns the water company, but they still can fine you if you water on off days. It also helps to keep the pressure in main system up.
In a previous post I noted I found a mystery 20 gauge shotgun. I recall it's origins now. My real father gave it to me a few years back. He won it in a raffle and after discussing it with him today, I recalled the exchange.
They say the Memory is the first thing to go....or is it the second? I don't remember now...
My Stepfather Richard, passed away ten years ago. He really was the one that got me into shooting. It was a different time but I recall loading up the hunting vest, grabbing my shotgun and setting out for the day- alone. No harassment from the Sheriff, no child endangerment charges. Just growing up, taking responsibility for my actions and practicing safety.
I miss those days.
Anyway my dad is back in Oklahoma and he called to tell me he picked up another Russian Rifle at a local gun show. He didn't know really what it was but thought it was a nice collector's piece. Turns out it's a Mosin Nagant 7.62 X 54MM.
All this gun talk has my trigger finger itchin'
Maybe I'll head up to the Mountains on Thursday Night and shoot some Trap. It's too hot during the day and only on Thursdays do they run the Nighttime lighting.
Well I guess the water is done for now............
It's funny that we have a built in automatic system over our one acre lot, but I don't use the front yard sprinklers for the lawn. The wind always seems to blow in the evening and it subsequently sprays over the cars. So I use just the hose and a small $4 sprinkler head and move it around. We are on a water system, so we can only water every other day. I don't mind, but nights like this I wish I would have remembered it was our day to water.
Actually the whole neighborhood owns the water company, but they still can fine you if you water on off days. It also helps to keep the pressure in main system up.
In a previous post I noted I found a mystery 20 gauge shotgun. I recall it's origins now. My real father gave it to me a few years back. He won it in a raffle and after discussing it with him today, I recalled the exchange.
They say the Memory is the first thing to go....or is it the second? I don't remember now...
My Stepfather Richard, passed away ten years ago. He really was the one that got me into shooting. It was a different time but I recall loading up the hunting vest, grabbing my shotgun and setting out for the day- alone. No harassment from the Sheriff, no child endangerment charges. Just growing up, taking responsibility for my actions and practicing safety.
I miss those days.
Anyway my dad is back in Oklahoma and he called to tell me he picked up another Russian Rifle at a local gun show. He didn't know really what it was but thought it was a nice collector's piece. Turns out it's a Mosin Nagant 7.62 X 54MM.
All this gun talk has my trigger finger itchin'
Maybe I'll head up to the Mountains on Thursday Night and shoot some Trap. It's too hot during the day and only on Thursdays do they run the Nighttime lighting.
Well I guess the water is done for now............
Monday, July 20, 2009
It's no use
complaining about it. It isn't getting better. Not that there is anything I can do about it anyway.
113F yesterday and 111F today.
Cold you can get away from. Blankets, more clothes, fireplace, etc..
Heat just sticks with you everywhere and anywhere.
I'm working on a lawn chair that will fit in the freezer.
113F yesterday and 111F today.
Cold you can get away from. Blankets, more clothes, fireplace, etc..
Heat just sticks with you everywhere and anywhere.
I'm working on a lawn chair that will fit in the freezer.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Screw This
I'm moving to Alaska. It's been over ten days in the 105F range with the forecast showing another seven coming.
Historically the web notes we have to get to the end of August to have the average temps drop a pitiful 2-3 degrees.
I've switched from buying the Gatorade in the jugs and went straight to the powder form which I can mix into water bottles...now I'm almost out of water bottles.
Service call this morning had me in an attic. I didn't stay long. Even the spiders leave the attics this time of year.
The homeowner just moved down from Portland and asked "Is it usually like this?"
She said she was tired of the rain and decided on this area.
I guess one would be, but I think I'd take rain over this crap. Nothing moves in the middle of the day.
The AC only shuts off when I do it manually. It just can't keep up and it's only six years old.
I have to admit though, once the sun goes down it cools off pretty nice. There's no humidity to deal with.
Even my birds got some extra cooling this week. I had a large piece of burlap and attached it to the wind side of the cage. It has the misters on one side and I keep the other hosed down with water. It makes for a decent old style evap cooler.
The birds sit behind it all day long.
Here is a picture of their cage although this is from earlier in the year:
They seem to enjoy it and it's 12' X 8' and 10' high. They must like it, they lay and hatch eggs all year long.
I believe the only comfortable animals we have are the two fish in the Koi pond.
Too bad I'm broke and the wife works on weekends, or we'd be at the coast...hold on let me check the weather over there via the Internet....son of a ...it's 60.1 degrees.
The low today in Pismo was 56 and the high 61.
Screw Alaska I'm going to the Central Coast.
Now to come up with a $1.5Mil just to buy an average house in that area.
I must have been a bad person in my previous life to be forced into attics in the middle of the summer. Somebody else better enjoy their Yin because I'm stuck with the Yang....
Historically the web notes we have to get to the end of August to have the average temps drop a pitiful 2-3 degrees.
I've switched from buying the Gatorade in the jugs and went straight to the powder form which I can mix into water bottles...now I'm almost out of water bottles.
Service call this morning had me in an attic. I didn't stay long. Even the spiders leave the attics this time of year.
The homeowner just moved down from Portland and asked "Is it usually like this?"
She said she was tired of the rain and decided on this area.
I guess one would be, but I think I'd take rain over this crap. Nothing moves in the middle of the day.
The AC only shuts off when I do it manually. It just can't keep up and it's only six years old.
I have to admit though, once the sun goes down it cools off pretty nice. There's no humidity to deal with.
Even my birds got some extra cooling this week. I had a large piece of burlap and attached it to the wind side of the cage. It has the misters on one side and I keep the other hosed down with water. It makes for a decent old style evap cooler.
The birds sit behind it all day long.
Here is a picture of their cage although this is from earlier in the year:
They seem to enjoy it and it's 12' X 8' and 10' high. They must like it, they lay and hatch eggs all year long.
I believe the only comfortable animals we have are the two fish in the Koi pond.
Too bad I'm broke and the wife works on weekends, or we'd be at the coast...hold on let me check the weather over there via the Internet....son of a ...it's 60.1 degrees.
The low today in Pismo was 56 and the high 61.
Screw Alaska I'm going to the Central Coast.
Now to come up with a $1.5Mil just to buy an average house in that area.
I must have been a bad person in my previous life to be forced into attics in the middle of the summer. Somebody else better enjoy their Yin because I'm stuck with the Yang....
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Movie anyone?
Just rented Knowing with Nicolas Cage. Great Rental and I recommend it to anyone.
Not a Blockbuster or anything of the sort, but good enough for a nice evening under the Air Conditioner and in front of the Tube.
Superb Special Effects and a Story line that keeps you fixated to the main characters.
I don't want to spoil it but there are some things I can't grasp.
How did the Aliens know what is coming? Why did they wait until the last minute?
Why Noah's approach? Probably only because it makes better theater, but still.
If you're like me and you place yourself into the character, you'll figure out alot of the plot before it happens, however it still makes for an interesting chain of events and if anything else gives you a sense of satisfaction on figuring it all out.
My links aren't working in the posts, I'm still figuring this all out...help me...
but you can click on the "Movie Anyone" Title for the Webpage.
Knowing: 8 out of 10 stars.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k3WSoi51mbA&feature=channel
Not a Blockbuster or anything of the sort, but good enough for a nice evening under the Air Conditioner and in front of the Tube.
Superb Special Effects and a Story line that keeps you fixated to the main characters.
I don't want to spoil it but there are some things I can't grasp.
How did the Aliens know what is coming? Why did they wait until the last minute?
Why Noah's approach? Probably only because it makes better theater, but still.
If you're like me and you place yourself into the character, you'll figure out alot of the plot before it happens, however it still makes for an interesting chain of events and if anything else gives you a sense of satisfaction on figuring it all out.
My links aren't working in the posts, I'm still figuring this all out...help me...
but you can click on the "Movie Anyone" Title for the Webpage.
Knowing: 8 out of 10 stars.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k3WSoi51mbA&feature=channel
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
It's a Dry Heat
I'm not acclimated to it yet. Not even close.
It's only suppose to be 103F today and by 12 noon I felt nauseous.
Yesterday and Today I spent some time working on the old Madera Air Force Station.
Part of the Early Warning Radar System in place from the early 1950s and closed by 1966.
Bureau of Indian Affairs took it over in the late 60s and the School District after that. Now it's an Idustrial Park.
I spent Monday trying to figure out 60 year old Underground pipes and today repairing lights on poles. Luckily we finished in time to prevent heat sickness from setting in.
Amazing that I've lived out here all my life and still don't accept the heat for what it is or what it does to me.
I really do like working out at the Station, it's a interesting part of History and did it's part to keep the Nation safe from Nuclear Attack.
I find it amusing that the Barracks (any of them on any base) don't seem to change much over time. It's like they drew up a master set of plans in the 1800s and have used them ever since.
Most of the equipment is long gone and nothing remains of the Radars other than their concrete foundations.
Even though the Base was operational for only about 15 years and from what I gather nothing tragic happened there, it stills feels unusual and probably real spooky at night.
There are some writings in the concrete from long ago stationed servicemen and a neat Squadron Sign made out of rocks set in cement.
I'm not impressed with the layout of the electrical system, but then again times and equipment have changed a great deal from it's construction.
I'd love to have been there to witness a "Bubble Check" performed by a Low flying F-106 Delta Dart over the Radar Station in the 60s, but the base closed right after I was issued my marching orders into the new world.
I do remember it being under the control of the BIA and the School District so I have to settle for low flying yellow buses...
I've included a link. I'm not sure on how to post urls yet on these blogger pages but you can copy and paste:
http://www.radomes.org/museum/recent/MaderaAFSCA.html
http://www.radomes.org/museum/
It's only suppose to be 103F today and by 12 noon I felt nauseous.
Yesterday and Today I spent some time working on the old Madera Air Force Station.
Part of the Early Warning Radar System in place from the early 1950s and closed by 1966.
Bureau of Indian Affairs took it over in the late 60s and the School District after that. Now it's an Idustrial Park.
I spent Monday trying to figure out 60 year old Underground pipes and today repairing lights on poles. Luckily we finished in time to prevent heat sickness from setting in.
Amazing that I've lived out here all my life and still don't accept the heat for what it is or what it does to me.
I really do like working out at the Station, it's a interesting part of History and did it's part to keep the Nation safe from Nuclear Attack.
I find it amusing that the Barracks (any of them on any base) don't seem to change much over time. It's like they drew up a master set of plans in the 1800s and have used them ever since.
Most of the equipment is long gone and nothing remains of the Radars other than their concrete foundations.
Even though the Base was operational for only about 15 years and from what I gather nothing tragic happened there, it stills feels unusual and probably real spooky at night.
There are some writings in the concrete from long ago stationed servicemen and a neat Squadron Sign made out of rocks set in cement.
I'm not impressed with the layout of the electrical system, but then again times and equipment have changed a great deal from it's construction.
I'd love to have been there to witness a "Bubble Check" performed by a Low flying F-106 Delta Dart over the Radar Station in the 60s, but the base closed right after I was issued my marching orders into the new world.
I do remember it being under the control of the BIA and the School District so I have to settle for low flying yellow buses...
I've included a link. I'm not sure on how to post urls yet on these blogger pages but you can copy and paste:
http://www.radomes.org/museum/recent/MaderaAFSCA.html
http://www.radomes.org/museum/
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Local Places to Visit
We really do have some interesting places to visit close by. I'm ashamed to admit that I don't visit them as often as I should, but that's probably correct for most people.
Generally our area is a Farm Belt that man made possible by Irrigation of a Dry Grassy Valley. However we are bracketed by the Gold Rush areas to our East and the Pacific Coast to our West. The area has much History and produces a great many products for the World.
It's too bad the Government and their Unions have destroyed us financially.
But that's another story.
I can write a long story about each one, but I'll let the reader enjoy searching the Web and find out exactly what they want to know on their own. I'll just give a brief description.
So My top 10 Local favorite Places:
#10- Mission San Juan Bautista- Founded in 1797 and Mission #15 out of 21. Too much History in relation to California not to include. Great Little surrounding town too.
#9- Castle Air Museum- Located on the old Castle Air Force Base, it has a great selection of old aircraft and memorabilia surrounding the US Air Force. Probably one of the top Aircraft Museums on the West Coast.
#8- Columbia State Park- Founded as a Gold Mining Town, but never abandoned. It has maintained it's Old World Charm throughout it's history.
#7-Pismo Beach- Although in my opinion it has seen it's Better Days, it still is a great place to escape the Hot summer days and spend a weekend there. Every so often I visit the Webcams to see the cool overcast Beach via the Web.
#6- Hearst Castle- I don't know really how to describe it other than Big and Expensive.
#5- Morro Bay- Much cleaner and more visitor friendly than Pismo. It has that North Eastern Fishing Village feel to it. The weather can't be beat. Rarely do you see a Air Conditioning Unit on any building.
#4- Turlock Auto Swap Meet- You have to be into cars to enjoy a Fairground full of vehicles and parts from a Bygone Era where Chrome was a Color.
#3- Monterey Bay- Home of the Aquarium and the setting for Steinbeck's Cannery Row. A must see when out west. Becareful, "children always think anything old and strange is funny".
#2- Chukchansi Gold Casino- This rivals anything on the Vegas Strip. It has all the comforts of a Hotel and Casino you'll find anywhere. This is the place to stay when visiting Yosemite. Our own little piece of Las Vegas surrounded by Trees and Granite Boulders..
#1- Yosemite- One the Great Parks in the world. Just too amazing for web photos. You really need to add this to your Bucket List. I would suggest you see it late Summer or Early Fall. The Japanese Tourists are not people friendly.
Of course there are many other places to visit in California, but I've only included local attractions and merely kept the traveler confined to a Central Location in our State. These Ten places would keep a average tourist busy for over a week alone.
The web will provide you with much information and best times to visit. Many of these attraction are located within close proximity of each other. You can make a day out of a couple of them.
Enjoy my part of the West....
Generally our area is a Farm Belt that man made possible by Irrigation of a Dry Grassy Valley. However we are bracketed by the Gold Rush areas to our East and the Pacific Coast to our West. The area has much History and produces a great many products for the World.
It's too bad the Government and their Unions have destroyed us financially.
But that's another story.
I can write a long story about each one, but I'll let the reader enjoy searching the Web and find out exactly what they want to know on their own. I'll just give a brief description.
So My top 10 Local favorite Places:
#10- Mission San Juan Bautista- Founded in 1797 and Mission #15 out of 21. Too much History in relation to California not to include. Great Little surrounding town too.
#9- Castle Air Museum- Located on the old Castle Air Force Base, it has a great selection of old aircraft and memorabilia surrounding the US Air Force. Probably one of the top Aircraft Museums on the West Coast.
#8- Columbia State Park- Founded as a Gold Mining Town, but never abandoned. It has maintained it's Old World Charm throughout it's history.
#7-Pismo Beach- Although in my opinion it has seen it's Better Days, it still is a great place to escape the Hot summer days and spend a weekend there. Every so often I visit the Webcams to see the cool overcast Beach via the Web.
#6- Hearst Castle- I don't know really how to describe it other than Big and Expensive.
#5- Morro Bay- Much cleaner and more visitor friendly than Pismo. It has that North Eastern Fishing Village feel to it. The weather can't be beat. Rarely do you see a Air Conditioning Unit on any building.
#4- Turlock Auto Swap Meet- You have to be into cars to enjoy a Fairground full of vehicles and parts from a Bygone Era where Chrome was a Color.
#3- Monterey Bay- Home of the Aquarium and the setting for Steinbeck's Cannery Row. A must see when out west. Becareful, "children always think anything old and strange is funny".
#2- Chukchansi Gold Casino- This rivals anything on the Vegas Strip. It has all the comforts of a Hotel and Casino you'll find anywhere. This is the place to stay when visiting Yosemite. Our own little piece of Las Vegas surrounded by Trees and Granite Boulders..
#1- Yosemite- One the Great Parks in the world. Just too amazing for web photos. You really need to add this to your Bucket List. I would suggest you see it late Summer or Early Fall. The Japanese Tourists are not people friendly.
Of course there are many other places to visit in California, but I've only included local attractions and merely kept the traveler confined to a Central Location in our State. These Ten places would keep a average tourist busy for over a week alone.
The web will provide you with much information and best times to visit. Many of these attraction are located within close proximity of each other. You can make a day out of a couple of them.
Enjoy my part of the West....
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Old Hobbies
I became aware of the fact the I haven't cleaned or oiled the guns in sometime.
So I managed to get myself motivated last week to do so.
Unlocking and removing the weapons I also became aware there was a Nice Winchester Pump 20gauge I didn't know I had.
Yeah.... I can't explain that either.
I think it was left to me by my Stepfather once he passed away. I know that doesn't sound right, but there were a lot of thing that were basically left to me because once my mom decided to move out of the home and into a much smaller one, there were many things I was given. Still it would seem that since firearms are always nice to have, I'd at least remember it.
In any case once the guns were out, I tried to find the pieces of the cleaning kit and gun mount. No go on remembering all of the locations of that either.
I found most of it, but I'm still missing one of the mounts to the cleaning kit. I know I've seen it, but can't recall where.
I tore the walk in closet apart looking for it and since I'm married to Imelda Marcos and her entire shoe collection, it wasn't much of a walk in to begin with.
I did have a good time going through old photos and other odds and ends buried in the closet. Remembering old times through photos is great and all, but I sure wish I took a photo of the gun mount location....
I know if I went out an bought another set, I'd find this one as soon as I arrived back home, so I'm just going to have to rough it and see if the Gnomes remember to bring back mine.
I also needed cleaning supplies, so I went out to both the local and large chain stores to find what I needed.
I was actually surprised how many guns and how much ammo is still available.
With all the talk about Government regulations and upcoming gun control, I was expecting to see empty shelves. I'd sure like to be in the Firearms Business instead of Construction right now.
I also bought some 20gauge shells for the Mystery Weapon.
Hint to family: I need a gun safe.
All of this resparked my interest in Firearms and I even went as far as registering on a gun board forum and researched the Japanese Type 99 Rifle my dad gave to me. Of course along with this registration I've been talking to newly found friends and even learning a few things.
Amazing how much time I've spent this week just because I wanted to clean a few guns.....
Saturday, July 4, 2009
I own a Chebbie...
Those that know me well know I'm a Die hard Mopar Fan.
My first Car was a 1970 Dodge Charger and every vehicle I've owned (Personal car) has been a Mopar. I did own a Mitsubishi truck for less than a year before it was stolen and wrecked. Nice little truck and I still miss it, but that was more to do with starting out for myself and having little money to buy anything else. If I remember correctly the truck cost $5400.00 new.
There are no better Vehicles than Dodge trucks and I've owned them since my little Blue Rice Burner.
My dad has owned a 1968 Chevy El Camino 307 V8 since 1969. He bought it on my Mother's Birthday for himself...I don't know why he did that or how she took it, but they haven't been married since 1974. So it's possible that did or did not contribute to the separation.
I always remember my dad picking me up at Mother's in the Goldish Green Chevy and taking me up to his ranch in the foothills. Plenty of ponds and we'd fish all weekend.
Not sure of the time frame, but he had it painted in the late 70s to a dark blue. Cheap paint job in which no trim was removed, but has held up well over the years.
I learned to drive in this truck. I was old enough to reach the pedals, but too young for the license. Also acquiring driving skills in a 3 speed column shift is something very few kids will experience nowadays.
So the vehicle has many memories and I've always requested that it be left to me.
My father called this week and asked if I really wanted it?
So I now own a Chevy. I don't have the pink yet, but I can start working on it anytime.
It's been sitting for some time and to the average car buyer not much to look at, but I think it's a diamond. Not really a desirable car and with a 307 small block and with a 200hp rating, not a screamer but I don't want it for that anyway.
My plans are to make some minor changes (maybe add AC and change the fuel delivery) but keep it stock for the most part. I just want make little changes to make it enjoyable to drive. If it isn't fun to cruise around in, then it will just sit and that's not good.
Now to make a T-Shirt with a Bowtie Pentastar Logo....
My first Car was a 1970 Dodge Charger and every vehicle I've owned (Personal car) has been a Mopar. I did own a Mitsubishi truck for less than a year before it was stolen and wrecked. Nice little truck and I still miss it, but that was more to do with starting out for myself and having little money to buy anything else. If I remember correctly the truck cost $5400.00 new.
There are no better Vehicles than Dodge trucks and I've owned them since my little Blue Rice Burner.
My dad has owned a 1968 Chevy El Camino 307 V8 since 1969. He bought it on my Mother's Birthday for himself...I don't know why he did that or how she took it, but they haven't been married since 1974. So it's possible that did or did not contribute to the separation.
I always remember my dad picking me up at Mother's in the Goldish Green Chevy and taking me up to his ranch in the foothills. Plenty of ponds and we'd fish all weekend.
Not sure of the time frame, but he had it painted in the late 70s to a dark blue. Cheap paint job in which no trim was removed, but has held up well over the years.
I learned to drive in this truck. I was old enough to reach the pedals, but too young for the license. Also acquiring driving skills in a 3 speed column shift is something very few kids will experience nowadays.
So the vehicle has many memories and I've always requested that it be left to me.
My father called this week and asked if I really wanted it?
So I now own a Chevy. I don't have the pink yet, but I can start working on it anytime.
It's been sitting for some time and to the average car buyer not much to look at, but I think it's a diamond. Not really a desirable car and with a 307 small block and with a 200hp rating, not a screamer but I don't want it for that anyway.
My plans are to make some minor changes (maybe add AC and change the fuel delivery) but keep it stock for the most part. I just want make little changes to make it enjoyable to drive. If it isn't fun to cruise around in, then it will just sit and that's not good.
Now to make a T-Shirt with a Bowtie Pentastar Logo....
Friday, July 3, 2009
Life
Early this morning we lost the Kitten.
It did so well until yesterday then went down hill fairly quick.
According to the vet it had a digestive disease contracted in the womb.
I suppose it's mother knew more than we did.
We tried and that's what is important and I've relayed this to my daughter, but she's not taking it very well....heck I'm not either.
We stayed up till 3:00am with it, because I knew it was leaving us that night.
Afterwards we tried to get her other adult cat to come inside to lay in bed with her, but he was busy somewhere...poor kid.
He's in this morning and will be with when she wakes up. That will help her out.
It did so well until yesterday then went down hill fairly quick.
According to the vet it had a digestive disease contracted in the womb.
I suppose it's mother knew more than we did.
We tried and that's what is important and I've relayed this to my daughter, but she's not taking it very well....heck I'm not either.
We stayed up till 3:00am with it, because I knew it was leaving us that night.
Afterwards we tried to get her other adult cat to come inside to lay in bed with her, but he was busy somewhere...poor kid.
He's in this morning and will be with when she wakes up. That will help her out.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Is it Christmas yet?
I hate summers. I really do.
If you find some one that likes them, they probably don't work outside.
3 days in the 108F range and I'm already looking forward to winter.
Typically we get 36 days over 100 and the good thing about that is we typically don't get 37.
Today started overcast and cool which is unusual, but it didn't last long. As soon as the clouds cleared, the temps rose dramatically.
With power rates through the roof and the Congress with our fine elected Messiah wanting Cap and Trade signed, I suppose we will start looking for even higher rates.
The bird cage misters have been on for the last few days and the cats don't move much.
The dogs? pfft...nothing slows them down.
Work is still slow and talking to other contractors in the area, I'm not the only one going through this. Nobody wants to spend money.
Even the State Project tomorrow has been delayed due to a shipping error. I'm told they have the money for this project so maybe I won't get a IOU. If I do my State Tax Return will say IOU2.
I did get word today that the Health Center wants to go ahead a start the design work on their Emergency Backup Generator project. That will take some time to start though.
I also was told today our big project for the year starts in 30days. So I need to pinch pennies this month and make it to ground break.
Maybe I'll just become a bum for another month....
If I had some money I'd be up at the Casino using their AC and having a great time, but Heapum Redman very greedy.
So much for blaming the Whiteman for the same thing.
If you find some one that likes them, they probably don't work outside.
3 days in the 108F range and I'm already looking forward to winter.
Typically we get 36 days over 100 and the good thing about that is we typically don't get 37.
Today started overcast and cool which is unusual, but it didn't last long. As soon as the clouds cleared, the temps rose dramatically.
With power rates through the roof and the Congress with our fine elected Messiah wanting Cap and Trade signed, I suppose we will start looking for even higher rates.
The bird cage misters have been on for the last few days and the cats don't move much.
The dogs? pfft...nothing slows them down.
Work is still slow and talking to other contractors in the area, I'm not the only one going through this. Nobody wants to spend money.
Even the State Project tomorrow has been delayed due to a shipping error. I'm told they have the money for this project so maybe I won't get a IOU. If I do my State Tax Return will say IOU2.
I did get word today that the Health Center wants to go ahead a start the design work on their Emergency Backup Generator project. That will take some time to start though.
I also was told today our big project for the year starts in 30days. So I need to pinch pennies this month and make it to ground break.
Maybe I'll just become a bum for another month....
If I had some money I'd be up at the Casino using their AC and having a great time, but Heapum Redman very greedy.
So much for blaming the Whiteman for the same thing.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Kitten update
All's Well so far. Still not out of the woods, but the kitten is eating, sleeping, peeing, pooping, and talking....I suppose that's about all I do as well.
We haven't named it yet. Still waiting on the shape of things to appear down there before coming up with a name.
We are probably going with Athena or Apollo.
We have a few other cats with similar type names. Cleopatra and Nala and I recently lost my personal cat Zeus to a Dog attack.
I'm a Dog person too, but when a Dog roams the neighborhood killing other animals it's time for it to die. Period. I had a good idea which one did it because I caught it one day chasing my cats around the house.
A Renter from down the road owned a Grey Pitbull that frequently got out.
After the Attack, I saw him walking it in front of my house. I told him that if he valued the life of his dog, he'd keep it locked up. A brief argument ensued, but I noted the conversation wasn't up for debate. I never saw the dog again roaming alone and the owner moved a few weeks later.
As noted previously, I grew up on a small farm and have had to put roaming dogs down in the past. I don't like it or look forward to it. I just know that it has to be done.
I spent the night once in the barn with a loaded 12gauge only to have to destroy the neighbor's prized Doberman at first light while attacking our sheep. I don't recall the money the guy spent on raising his "prize winning" pooch, but whatever it was it didn't seem to matter to our livestock....or the 12 gauge. We tried the rock salt shells for awhile, but that didn't solve the problem in the long run.
On a related note. One of the funniest things I ever witnessed was grazing the herd on a large open field behind our property. Behind that field was a small Vietnamese vegetable farm with a bunch of Asians working out there every day. One day I saw a group of them trying to catch one of my Lambs and make off with it. I was riding a fairly large Quarterhorse and sped off after them. I guess they never really saw a horse before or maybe they watched too many John Wayne Movies and thought I was going to string them up on the nearest oak tree, but these guys screamed like children and dropped not only the lamb but everything else they had loose on them.
I'll never forget the fear those people had in their eyes. It's not like they were starving or anything, they just thought they'd get a free lamb for the pot.
Anyway I always thought the whole ordeal was pretty amusing and in the Third Person point of View probably looked like a Fox chasing chickens around a coop.......ah great fun.
Wait a sec....maybe it was just me that thought I was John Wayne? ;-)
We haven't named it yet. Still waiting on the shape of things to appear down there before coming up with a name.
We are probably going with Athena or Apollo.
We have a few other cats with similar type names. Cleopatra and Nala and I recently lost my personal cat Zeus to a Dog attack.
I'm a Dog person too, but when a Dog roams the neighborhood killing other animals it's time for it to die. Period. I had a good idea which one did it because I caught it one day chasing my cats around the house.
A Renter from down the road owned a Grey Pitbull that frequently got out.
After the Attack, I saw him walking it in front of my house. I told him that if he valued the life of his dog, he'd keep it locked up. A brief argument ensued, but I noted the conversation wasn't up for debate. I never saw the dog again roaming alone and the owner moved a few weeks later.
As noted previously, I grew up on a small farm and have had to put roaming dogs down in the past. I don't like it or look forward to it. I just know that it has to be done.
I spent the night once in the barn with a loaded 12gauge only to have to destroy the neighbor's prized Doberman at first light while attacking our sheep. I don't recall the money the guy spent on raising his "prize winning" pooch, but whatever it was it didn't seem to matter to our livestock....or the 12 gauge. We tried the rock salt shells for awhile, but that didn't solve the problem in the long run.
On a related note. One of the funniest things I ever witnessed was grazing the herd on a large open field behind our property. Behind that field was a small Vietnamese vegetable farm with a bunch of Asians working out there every day. One day I saw a group of them trying to catch one of my Lambs and make off with it. I was riding a fairly large Quarterhorse and sped off after them. I guess they never really saw a horse before or maybe they watched too many John Wayne Movies and thought I was going to string them up on the nearest oak tree, but these guys screamed like children and dropped not only the lamb but everything else they had loose on them.
I'll never forget the fear those people had in their eyes. It's not like they were starving or anything, they just thought they'd get a free lamb for the pot.
Anyway I always thought the whole ordeal was pretty amusing and in the Third Person point of View probably looked like a Fox chasing chickens around a coop.......ah great fun.
Wait a sec....maybe it was just me that thought I was John Wayne? ;-)
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Oh no..not again
I'm am fully confident there is a sign somewhere on this property that says "Cats here".
I can't accurately tell you how many we have now, but better add another.
My son's friend just brought over a day or two old kitten that was abandoned by it's Mother. The kitten's sibling was already dead where they found it at the neighbor's house in the flower bed.
So of course I had to take it in and at least give it a shot at survival. $8.00 for the Kitten milk from the Vet and another $10 for a thermometer and alcohol to test the food warmth and I'm already in the hole with this one.....I've spent money on worst causes.
I think it has a shot because it looks like it got at least some of mom's colostrum and feeds pretty well from the bottle. It's strong and very vocal. Looks like it wants to try this life thing out.
My daughter is home for the summer vacation so she has volunteered to get up and feed it. We will see. If not, I know my Wife will.
I grew up on a small farm/ranch type setting and have witnessed nature in all it's glory and tragedy and I know things might go well or.. not for this little guy.
In any case, my kids need to see that life sometimes needs a bit of help regardless of the way things might turn out.
So wish it luck and I'll keep you posted.
I can't accurately tell you how many we have now, but better add another.
My son's friend just brought over a day or two old kitten that was abandoned by it's Mother. The kitten's sibling was already dead where they found it at the neighbor's house in the flower bed.
So of course I had to take it in and at least give it a shot at survival. $8.00 for the Kitten milk from the Vet and another $10 for a thermometer and alcohol to test the food warmth and I'm already in the hole with this one.....I've spent money on worst causes.
I think it has a shot because it looks like it got at least some of mom's colostrum and feeds pretty well from the bottle. It's strong and very vocal. Looks like it wants to try this life thing out.
My daughter is home for the summer vacation so she has volunteered to get up and feed it. We will see. If not, I know my Wife will.
I grew up on a small farm/ranch type setting and have witnessed nature in all it's glory and tragedy and I know things might go well or.. not for this little guy.
In any case, my kids need to see that life sometimes needs a bit of help regardless of the way things might turn out.
So wish it luck and I'll keep you posted.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Baseball
It seems like with the majority of the US, I've lost touch with Baseball.
I don't know why, maybe it's the pace of the game or what, but I just haven't watched it lately.
Well we got our yearly tickets in the Sky box of the local minor league team and went last night.
Great Fun!
Maybe the big screen, the combination of outdoor seats above first base or the choice of leather recliners inside the box, or even the free food had to do with it but I really need to get out of the house and do this more often.
You just don't get the combination of the music, crowd, and local fun at any other game. That is until hockey season starts.
The Game was a leapfrog contest and it went all the way down to the last batter, last pitch, last swing, and a tie at first base with the runner on third coming home that had our local team score the win. Pretty exciting.
We only get the box one night out of the season, but I've watched it in the stands before and the excitement is still there.
I used to pitch in Junior High and Little League, but concentrated on Football in High school. I never enjoyed Basketball and still don't. It's played on a Dinning Room Floor for Pete's sake...
Football is fun to both watch and play but baseball is I'll admit, more enjoyable on the field than in the stands.
I always tell people I don't play Golf because who wants to hit a ball and go run after it? Baseball on the other hand relegates somebody else running after the ball. Sounds better I think.....
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Gun Control
Pretty simple statement.....
If you are for Gun Control, please take note of what is happening in Iran right now.
A Government is walking right over the rights of it's people and all they can do about it is take cell phone videos, send them out to others and hope that someone will come to their rescue.
Sorry I'd rather be a Citizen than a Subject.
If you are for Gun Control, please take note of what is happening in Iran right now.
A Government is walking right over the rights of it's people and all they can do about it is take cell phone videos, send them out to others and hope that someone will come to their rescue.
Sorry I'd rather be a Citizen than a Subject.
Weather, Location, Related...
Being from the Land Of Fruit and Nuts does have it's advantages.
Especially when the above describes what I consider the REAL California.
You see the quote describes our Agriculture Rich area of California and not the Politics of San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Although SF is close enough to visit and be back home in the same day, we are worlds apart.
This area produces too many crops to list, but the majority is rooted in the production of Grapes, Almonds, Pistachios, and Tree Fruit.
Just last week I did a job that had me sitting in the middle of hundreds of acres of Fresh Market Tomatoes. The field is generally planted in Cotton every year, but Market prices what they are, Cotton will take some time to recover.
I've been carefully applying fertilizer and watching the water closely on my small one dozen tree orchard in the back yard. We have trouble with hardpan and I applied gypsum to the soil this winter. Our soil is comprised of Decomposed Granite, but I hear the Gyp is good for clay too.
My Dwarf Peach Tree just gave up it's first batch of about half dozen pieces of fruit.
The Apricot had some trouble this year but at only two years old it has a few full size apricots on it. Not bad considering it's age. Next year should be better once the tap root has taken hold.
The Dwarf Nectarine is loaded and should be a few weeks out from picking.
The plums are doing well and have enough fruit to have me bagging them up for the family members shortly. Way too many plums for us to eat alone.
I'm surprised on how well the Almonds are doing since every farmer I talked to has noted the Rain and Hail took a toll on their retail crops. I have a wild tree that must have sprouted from a bird sitting on a fence last year and it's over six feet already. Should be healthy enough to produce nuts next year . The older tree is loaded as long as the Blue Jays stay off it.
The Three Citrus trees (Lemon, Orange, and Grapefruit)are still young, but have fruit that will be ripen towards the end of the year.
Two years ago I planted a small vineyard consisting of four Thompson and two Concord cuttings. This year I had to build the third tier of their wire trellis. They are growing that rapidly.
Those Topsy Turvy hanging plant things? Yes they work as long as you feel the need to water your plants about 3 times a day. Once a tomato plant get's big enough, the small hanging pot can't support enough moisture in the soil for very long. They need to be about three times larger.
My wife bought one at work and I planted some tomatoes in the basket and some in the ground. The hanging ones are much larger and producing fruit much faster, but I'm spending more time taking care of them too.
The weather has cooperated and has been cool enough to not stress the plants. Maybe that's why they are doing so well. We did have a few days over 100F in May but it has been cloudy and cool ever since.
Friday may have us in the 100s again, something I'm not looking forward to.
Especially when the above describes what I consider the REAL California.
You see the quote describes our Agriculture Rich area of California and not the Politics of San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Although SF is close enough to visit and be back home in the same day, we are worlds apart.
This area produces too many crops to list, but the majority is rooted in the production of Grapes, Almonds, Pistachios, and Tree Fruit.
Just last week I did a job that had me sitting in the middle of hundreds of acres of Fresh Market Tomatoes. The field is generally planted in Cotton every year, but Market prices what they are, Cotton will take some time to recover.
I've been carefully applying fertilizer and watching the water closely on my small one dozen tree orchard in the back yard. We have trouble with hardpan and I applied gypsum to the soil this winter. Our soil is comprised of Decomposed Granite, but I hear the Gyp is good for clay too.
My Dwarf Peach Tree just gave up it's first batch of about half dozen pieces of fruit.
The Apricot had some trouble this year but at only two years old it has a few full size apricots on it. Not bad considering it's age. Next year should be better once the tap root has taken hold.
The Dwarf Nectarine is loaded and should be a few weeks out from picking.
The plums are doing well and have enough fruit to have me bagging them up for the family members shortly. Way too many plums for us to eat alone.
I'm surprised on how well the Almonds are doing since every farmer I talked to has noted the Rain and Hail took a toll on their retail crops. I have a wild tree that must have sprouted from a bird sitting on a fence last year and it's over six feet already. Should be healthy enough to produce nuts next year . The older tree is loaded as long as the Blue Jays stay off it.
The Three Citrus trees (Lemon, Orange, and Grapefruit)are still young, but have fruit that will be ripen towards the end of the year.
Two years ago I planted a small vineyard consisting of four Thompson and two Concord cuttings. This year I had to build the third tier of their wire trellis. They are growing that rapidly.
Those Topsy Turvy hanging plant things? Yes they work as long as you feel the need to water your plants about 3 times a day. Once a tomato plant get's big enough, the small hanging pot can't support enough moisture in the soil for very long. They need to be about three times larger.
My wife bought one at work and I planted some tomatoes in the basket and some in the ground. The hanging ones are much larger and producing fruit much faster, but I'm spending more time taking care of them too.
The weather has cooperated and has been cool enough to not stress the plants. Maybe that's why they are doing so well. We did have a few days over 100F in May but it has been cloudy and cool ever since.
Friday may have us in the 100s again, something I'm not looking forward to.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
♦
First post into the new Blog.
I suppose the first thing to add is the biggest major change in my life.
Major for me at least is the addition of a new Dog.
Back in October we were given a Female Miniature Pinscher..or Min Pin.
I had stopped by a fellow contractor's house to drop off a business card for him to drum up new clients. I have known for some time that he raised these dogs, but never saw myself with such a small toy breed.
Well as we stood and talked out front, this 6 week old female walks out to the front yard by herself to verify that all was well with the new voices she heard and proceeds to walk right up to me and jump into my arms.
"She's your now" he explains.
Seriously? Why yes, I'll take her. I reply.
I know right away the fortitude this girl has shown already she's a Alpha female and would make a excellent dog.
I call the wife on the way home and notify her that there is something in the truck I need for her to help me unload. I get the third degree about she can't lift heavy objects and complains that she has too much to do than to wait in the driveway for me, but she is there waiting for me when I pull up.
I hand the puppy out the window. Her expression changes......drastically.
Well fast forward to May and "Sugar" as she is now named, is doing well and has become the Commanding Officer of our home. Min Pins are like that, but she takes this position to a new level.
I'm again over at the breeder's home doing some work and he notifies me that one of the other females from Sugar's litter that was given to one of MY family members is now in need of another home.
Long story but this family thinks dogs are cars and are traded as such.
I previously made this family aware that if they had problems with their dog to contact me and I'd take her in. Well things happen and a divorce from their family to ours probably made such a call a bit difficult for them.
I told the breeder to tell them you found a owner and to bring her back.
I picked her up the day they dropped her off.
So now "Lilly" has join our ranks.
She was a bit timid and looked to be under fed, but in the last few weeks has filled out nicely and even her ears are starting to stand up straight. A good sign.
Lilly and her sister are the best of friends and great additions to the family..........until they think play time is 11:30pm..........on our bed.
I'll post pics as soon as I learn how.
I suppose the first thing to add is the biggest major change in my life.
Major for me at least is the addition of a new Dog.
Back in October we were given a Female Miniature Pinscher..or Min Pin.
I had stopped by a fellow contractor's house to drop off a business card for him to drum up new clients. I have known for some time that he raised these dogs, but never saw myself with such a small toy breed.
Well as we stood and talked out front, this 6 week old female walks out to the front yard by herself to verify that all was well with the new voices she heard and proceeds to walk right up to me and jump into my arms.
"She's your now" he explains.
Seriously? Why yes, I'll take her. I reply.
I know right away the fortitude this girl has shown already she's a Alpha female and would make a excellent dog.
I call the wife on the way home and notify her that there is something in the truck I need for her to help me unload. I get the third degree about she can't lift heavy objects and complains that she has too much to do than to wait in the driveway for me, but she is there waiting for me when I pull up.
I hand the puppy out the window. Her expression changes......drastically.
Well fast forward to May and "Sugar" as she is now named, is doing well and has become the Commanding Officer of our home. Min Pins are like that, but she takes this position to a new level.
I'm again over at the breeder's home doing some work and he notifies me that one of the other females from Sugar's litter that was given to one of MY family members is now in need of another home.
Long story but this family thinks dogs are cars and are traded as such.
I previously made this family aware that if they had problems with their dog to contact me and I'd take her in. Well things happen and a divorce from their family to ours probably made such a call a bit difficult for them.
I told the breeder to tell them you found a owner and to bring her back.
I picked her up the day they dropped her off.
So now "Lilly" has join our ranks.
She was a bit timid and looked to be under fed, but in the last few weeks has filled out nicely and even her ears are starting to stand up straight. A good sign.
Lilly and her sister are the best of friends and great additions to the family..........until they think play time is 11:30pm..........on our bed.
I'll post pics as soon as I learn how.
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