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........
Monday, July 27, 2009
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.
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