2009

It was a strange year for many of us. So much going on a National level that effected all of us in some way. It had its highs and lows. From electing our first African American President to the bad economy. The good news were still standing and again it shows what makes our country so grand.

It was a year that I saw my son Zach moving on to High School and overnight I saw him changing in so many ways. From a trombone to a uniform, Yeah changes, some big and some small but all still noticed.

Wishing you and your family a happy New Year!

Oh by the way the music for the video is from the group Abba. Their greatest hits album was one of the first that I ever bought with my own money. I loved the song Waterloo!

Singing Ornaments and Willie!

Just a short video of our singing Santa ornament performing Zach's favorite Christmas song"Feliz Navidad". He has liked this song ever since he was a little guy. When I told him to push the button his face lite up and joined in with Santa. The Steamboat Willie is another family favorite for a very special reason.

Wishing everyone Merry Christmas and I hope you can find a moment to say a prayer for of our brave Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen doing what they do best, protecting you and I.

Zach's New Medals

What a great night it was Tuesday. Zach had his first J.R.O.T.C Awards Ceremony and it really was special. Watching all the young cadets in their uniforms and on their best behavior was great.
With all the bad we hear about our youth today and to see this wonderful group of young men and woman made me proud. I know that the future is in good hands with them. I was also happy with the parent turnout. So important to support our children in their activities.

Zach was awarded three new medals last night to go along with the the three he had received earlier this semester. The small cluster on one of them represents one. Not bad for his first semester in the program. I'm real proud of the kid and his accomplishments so far in this outstanding organization.

Sorry no pictures or videos, Zach asked me not to bring any cameras. I did as asked but will next semester. I think I was one of the few parents not hefting a camera to my eye! So next semester expect some photos!

Window Display Done!!

The Christmas Lights and Display are up and running! It's a Mickey Christmas and with him rolling a big snowball it sure fit in with the snowfall we had last night.

Zach and I finished with the outside lights just in time! It really was pretty with the lights and snow falling. Zach was a good sport with the whole decorating thing. I remember when my Father would hang the Christmas lights I would mysteriously disappear. I guess that's why he decided one year to leave the lights on the trees year round! I suppose My brother and I should have gotten the message.











I Don't know if you all remembered last year but we had problems with Mickey's head coming off. I think we got the problem fixed as he hasn't lost his head yet. If Mickey does "lose it" I sure hope were home! That really would be embarrassing.
I think the house looks great! I 'll post some more photos in the following days but for now we can relax a little before the season really kicks in! Merry Christmas!

Christmas Display!.............

Well its time to start putting up our Christmas lights and our famous window display. This is our third display and a lot of planning went into it. Zach and I argued and argued what the Christmas display was going to be and who was in charge this year. I gave in and let him take charge. I asked what he wanted me to do, "nothing dad I have it under control" he said. I came to check on him an hour later and snapped off this photo. Yep everything is "under control".

So please bear with us and check back daily for the finished job, then again by the looks of it..... Our first annual New Years Day display!!

Santa's Helper?

Well the Christmas season is once again upon us. Zach has always loved Christmas and the traditions that go with it. This year he wanted to start a new one and actually help Santa up north. Yep, off he went in his new duds (not pictured but he is wearing green tights) and has become one of the Santa's Elves. Its amazing what he will do for the big guy, wear the "uniform of the elf" shovel snow, build the toys and yes, his favorite job, test all the video games. Wish I knew Santa's secret, I can't get the kid to make his bed!

All joking a side, hope your Christmas season is filled with all the wonderful things that make this time of the year so special to one and all. Merry Christmas!!

Veteran's Day Parade

Up early to go watch the Veterans day Parade today. The video is of Zach and his fellow Air Force J.R.O.T.C members marching in the parade. It was a beautiful day for the parade and was impressed with the whole event. A large crowd turned out to honor and support our veterans past, present and future. With the senseless tragedy at Fort Hood it brings home their importance and our deep appreciation and thanks to our brave military and their families. We owe them so much for their sacrifices so we can enjoy our freedoms.

If your looking for Zach he's in the first group in the back. I wasn't sure where he would be and got lucky when they stopped. Sorry for the lousy video,the sun was facing me and I got the lousy glare.

Before

Before the ribbons, bracelets and telethons, a simple Red Poppy was the token you wore to show your support. No money was asked but the desire to give took care of that. To give a few coins or a folded dollar bill to those who had given so much already. In homes all across the country you can find the "Buddy Poppy," some in a drawer or tucked away in a special place. Always saved, this simple reminder of the brave.

Last Saturday my son Zach took part in this noble cause and once again my pride as a father soared to a new height. The next generation, giving and volunteering to show the American spirit is alive and well. Thanks Zach and your fellow members of the J.R.O.T.C!

Mom's Birthday!

Mom had her Birthday on Sunday and as you can see she's not to impressed with her son's baking skills! She enjoyed a quiet and relaxing day with calls from her daughters and friends. Zach her youngest grandson was over helping her celebrate #? I asked what she wanted for a Birthday dinner and her answer was- your green enchiladas. Thankfully I 'm a little bit better as a cook then a baker! Happy birthday Mom and hope you had a wonderful day!

A.F.J.R.O.T.C Cadet Airman

As I think you all know Zach is in the Air Force R.O.T.C program at his High School. Its his first year and so far pretty excited about the whole thing. Right now their doing the basics, learning the history of the Air Force and learning how to drill. They also do their P.T(Physical Training) which counts for his P.E class. He started the after school program last year at his Middle School to get a taste of the program. He liked it and decided he wanted to try the program at the next level. He was a little uneasy about wearing the uniform but I told him that women love a man in a uniform! The uniform is a little bare but I'm sure he will fill it up with a few ribbons.

I'm already seeing a little change in Zach, He says "Sir"and I'm still looking over my shoulder wondering who he is talking too. He has an Uncle who is in the Air Force and I'm sure that there is a little sense of pride there for his nephew. I know as his father I'm very proud of him but would be with whatever he wants to do with his life. Hope you enjoy the photos, I think he looks sharp! and please no comments on the haircut!

In Keeping With The Beatles Theme

Zach gave this album to me for my Birthday. I love it, and think Cheap Trick did a great job with the Sgt Peppers Album. John Lennon once said that the album couldn't be done live because it would be to challenging. Cheap trick used a full Orchestra and Indian Musicians to create the live performances. The Beatles have been a big influence on Cheap trick and have recorded other Beatles hits such has Day Tripper. They also worked with John Lennon on his last album Double Fantasy with the song "I'm Losing You". Robin Zander uses his incredible and diverse vocals on the album. Sounding like the Beatles but keeping it Cheap trick also. Zach loves it too and put the whole album on his Ipod. The above clip is the song "A Day In The Life". Hope you enjoy!

Birthday Boy!

The kid is now fifteen and in High School. Wow, where does the time go.... Zach said he had a great birthday and I hope he did. His list was small but that doesn't say much does it. I made the cake that well, looks like.... but hey looks are deceiving, it really did taste good. Along with his "big gift" Zach was up late and playing his Beatles Rock Band. Cool game and I'm glad Zach likes the good stuff. Books, music and games were the highlights of his gifts. In keeping with the Beatles theme he also got the Beatles White Album. I think he got frustrated with me not letting him have my copy. I want to thank everyone who helped make his day special. Up next, sweet sixteen!



A Beatles "Birthday" for the Zach!!

NEVER FORGET

Are You Ready.......

Yea, its that time of year. To be honest its the best time of the year if you love sports. The Boy's of Summer are finishing up and the pigskin is ready to fly.(Who said pigs couldn't fly) I know the end of the video was a little much, but hey, they won those rings and trophy's before and are both capable of doing it again this year! So if the Redskins and Penn State aren't your favorite teams good luck......unless there playing my teams!!




Myspace College Logos

Glitter Graphics Maker & MySpace Layouts

A Lesson To Follow

Regardless of my politics or his, I still wish to show my respect to Ted Kennedy and his family. Take ones own family, any family and put it in the spotlight, magnify their every move and breath. Would we differ that much from theirs. Don't we all have that scandal, shamed liaisons, drugs and alcohol abuse that we want to keep hidden and dwelt with behind closed doors. Letting the family work, solve and heal. Of course we do. The Kennedy's were no different in that regard. The problem that they faced was, they were a public family. Perhaps the first that our generation followed in both awe and scorn.

They were that public family that held the public's attention in their actions as heroes of war and politicians of high office. Decision makers that have influenced and impacted all of us in some way. They used their wealth, influence and power to help shape a nation. In their rise they stood strong as a family, supported one and another regardless of their successes or failures.

It is a sad day for our nation. I hear the talking heads and have heard both sides of the story. I have read about their triumphs and their failures. I watch a nation, a state and a family grieve. I also feel a deeper loss. The end of a dynasty, four brothers gone. All giving so much for their nation.

I like this photo of three of the brothers. I changed it in the second shot to show that if you take away the big fancy house, you could have found these three on any street corner in any town in America. Just three average brothers hanging out.

My politics and Mr Kennedy's are miles are apart but my respect for him comes from the love that he had for his family. The sense of duty that he showed them. From the young children who loss their fathers to the grieving widows left behind. He was the patriarch of "America's Family". Mr Kennedy's responsibility was done with class, humility and love. He set an example that all of us should have and show in our own families. Just think how better off our nation would be if we all would follow his lead. Good Job Mr. Kennedy.

Organ Mountain Way

Just having a little fun with "my mountains" in the backyard. The song was fitting as they are part of the Rockies and besides, its a great tune. So kick back for a few minutes and hope you enjoy it!

I was going through some old video and came across this. At first it didn't mean anything other then a cute video of Zach playing at the park when he was little. When I came to this clip in the video it struck me, when do they stop listening and minding us? Oh I know it was a lot earlier then this but it was a cute reminder. The second clip on the video was from the same outing. I just decided to have a little fun with a bossy Zachster!


Feel free to replay the last part over and over and over again. I did and my sides are still hurting. I swear its the voice from"The silence of the lambs"!

High School!!

Pretty short video of Zach's first day of High School. Actually of him walking home on his first day of High School. I promise there were no other kids present while I was taking the video. While watching him walking up the street it really hit me that he wasn't a little boy anymore. To tell you the truth I don't remember the last time he was guiding me over to the toy section at the store. How quickly he is turning into a young man. He called me tonight asking me what clubs he should join. He mentioned a few that I had belonged too. I quickly agreed they were good choices but told him it was his life and he needed to pick what he wanted. They actually have a bunch of new ones that seemed pretty cool.
One more thing before closing, Zach's High School is my old High School's rival. Yeah for 4 years, Four Long Years I have to root for his school. It will be tough but hey it will make for some interesting get- togethers after he graduates!!

Thanks Mr. Paul

Anyone who loves music was impacted and influenced by the genius of this man. Even his name was cool.

Quickly Approaching 40!

I know lousy photo huh? Well Zach was the photographer and said that he was trying to get the important stuff in the shot. Yep the T.V! Cut my face right off! That's okay I got some classic photos of him that can be easily posted to the site.

Had a great Birthday. Zach was out grilling my birthday dinner for me. Mother made a cake and a beautiful day to celebrate it on. The year has gone so quickly but I have been saying that the last 10 years! Thanks to you all for making the day so special!

Salt Lake City

I really had a blast putting this little trip down memory lane together. The idea came to me while working on Zach's last video. When started I was glad that my insomnia was in full effect. So many place and sights that came rushing back to me as I searched. From the old neighborhood and schools to some of our favorite places to eat. The Tiki Hut, Sizzler and yes, Dee's with a jug of root beer to go. A shopping center where we would do our grocery shopping along with a theater, bowling alley and swimming pool. Skiing for some.... but fun for all. Oh, and what can be said for Lagoon, for me its still the best amusement park ever. I had more to add but figured after hearing "Salt Lake City" by the Beach Boys three times it was time to quit. Hey even that song brings back a few.

Sad to say through my journey I found some of those places gone. The nautical center where I learned to swim and Dee's Drive In's gone. Its a lot bigger and more crowded but funny how my old street seemed quiet. I guess all the kids grew up and moved away.

Coming from a native, what a beautiful place.

Through The Years, So Far......

I was just messing around on the computer having a little fun going down memory lane. The song is one of my favorites. It helped me during a difficult time in my life. It meant a lot to me then and still does today. Hope you enjoy it.

New Cheap Trick Release from New Album "The Latest"

And Another From "The Latest" By Cheap Trick

One of my favorite bands! Yes I know it dates me but I was in High School when Surrender hit the airwaves and have been a big fan since. Zach even likes some of their tunes especially Their remake of "Day Tripper" by the Beatles.

Feeling Better!

A week after taking George to the Veterinarian He is doing much better. Thought this was cute watching Zach and George at play. The next clip had George showing off his language skills talking saying "Pretty Boy" and "Crazy Bird". I didn't include it because the moron camera operator(that would be me) couldn't keep his mouth shut and ruined the clip. Oh well, still its good to have George back feeling better and acting like a brat!!

Summer

Summer officially starts on the 21st, but it has already started for all of us out this way. Zach had his Basketball camp last week and did real well. His team took first place and he took a 2nd place award for free throw shooting. He really does enjoy the sport and his game is pretty good. Can he beat Dad? You bet! I still throw like a ........ Yes, the photo is an old shot of Zach but I kind of played around with it a bit.

Whats next for Zach? Well there is some discussion of a Spanish Camp. He is taking Spanish next year in High School. He's not to thrilled with the idea but it would give him a leg up. So far he's been been hanging around with his cousin and playing a lot of video games.

George our Parakeet was real sick last week. We noticed Last Thursday morning that he was acting a little quiet. He started sneezing and throwing up. We took him to the Vet and got him on antibiotics. He had a few rough days but is doing much better. I learned something about birds through this. A bird will hide the fact that they are sick so that they will not be cut from the flock or not allowed to eat. I know you all hear me whining about the little guy but he is part of the family and gives us all much joy. He still has a few days left of his medicine and let me tell you the fun in administering that to a little bird. Song playing on the blog is dedicated to George. He really does think he's an Eagle.

Zach and Bird updates forthcoming. Have a great June!

Brother

I wasn't sure if I should post this entry. I have been debating this for a few months. Part of me said no, it was too personal and should be a private thought not shared with anyone who might happen across this website. On the other hand I wanted to let anyone who came across and read this to know what a great guy my brother was. As you can see I decided to post. I want people and anyone who knew my brother to know what kind of man he was. He was special and not because he was my brother.

He was born 50 years ago on the 27th of this month. He died in 1979, on March 27th. Thirty years of passed but not a day has gone by that I don't feel that ache of missing him. We lose people throughout our lives but this was a loss that has never seemed to heal. We all have our ways to deal with our losses, but that one question that never seemed to be answered, why.

Enough of that. I know many of you may say that they have the best brother in the world. I wont argue with you on that, but the truth is, I know I had the best brother one could ever have. I have yet to meet a more gentle person who had a heart of gold. He would do anything for you. He would give the shirt off his back if you needed it. Cover for you even when he knew that what you did was wrong. Many times when I, his little brother got into a mess he was there. Sometimes a bang on the head or a kick in the butt to get me straightened out but those times were rare. Scott didn't have to kick butt or yell. He was patient and always used a logic that wise for his young age. He never held a grudge or judged anyone,. He accepted everyone regardless of who they were. He made mistakes but they were small and far between.

He may not fit in today's world. I say this for the reason that material things were not important to Scott. He really didn't collect anything, He never was out to prove that he was better then the guy next in line. The things that were important to him were simple things. Family, He loved his family, even with all of our faults. He hated when there were fights in the family and you could see the pain that it caused him. He did his best not to take sides but to be the guy in the middle. Helping solve the problem and making the right amends. He cared for his friends. The bonds that he made with some of his close friends were tight. They lasted and never faded. They knew what kind of friend he was and knew how rare his type of friendship was. He was faithful and loyal. Not just with family and friends but with his job. His boss knew he could be trusted even over his own family.

He loved cars and working on them. He didn't have a fancy one but that wasn't important to him. What was important was that he owned it. He was fascinated with Sea Horses and tried over and over to keep them as pets. He would order them from the back of a magazine. They never lasted long but he would always try again. I think of all the things in his life this was the most frustrating to him. He loved to play pool with his friends and cruise the Sonic on a Saturday night.

I could go on and on as anyone could who knew him. We all have those special memories of Scott. Some we shared with others and some that only you and he shared. I miss him and wonder what this earth would have been like with him still around. I admit it, I still get angry that he was taken. I tell my Son about him and I feel sad and depressed that he never got to know his Uncle Scott. He was special and he would have treated my children with the love and respect that only Scott could.

Its been a long time, but its seems like yesterday. Happy Birthday Scott, I miss you.

As Promised..........

the final piece played by Zach and his fellow band members! I hope you all enjoyed the performances by these young musicians. It has been a enjoyable three years for all of us involved.




Well that's all Folks!! Thanks for watching!!

Zach and his R.O.P.E.S Presentation.

Well Zach and his middle school days are behind him. Next step high school! He finished up his last week with with so many activities. He has his final band concert, a field trip, a science fair and concluding with his ropes presentation. R.O.P.E.S stands for, The Rite Of Passage Experience Showcase. Each 8th grader presents a portfolio of his middle school years. They can make a scrap book, power point or a road map. The kids then present to their fellow classmates and then again to parents, facility and other students. Zach picked the road map and did a great job with it.


The road map takes you through Zach's journey in middle school. Starting with 6th grade and ending with where he wants to be in the future. It was neat to see some of the neat things he and his classmates did. It showed Zach and his many activities, Band, Basketball, Wrestling R.O.T.C........ He was busy kid and lets not forget that he did have to study and learn a little during that time.

















The above shot is a little of his 6th grade year. To the right, Zach and what he wants and wants to do in the future.

The next few photos shows Zach presenting his road map during the open house. He was judged by his teachers and fellow students as well.


















Zach explaining his years to a teacher and a few girls.














It was neat walking around and seeing the work of the other students as well. They all did well with their presentations. I as well as the other parents were proud of our kids and so were their teachers.

Part Two: Final Concert Of The Year

I'm sure that a lot of parents were thinking the same thing Mr.C spoke of. Is this the last time some of the kids will play? Zach is still pondering that question himself. Its his decision and I'm sure he will pick the right one. What I like about this video is seeing the expressions on the students faces. Its all smiles and appreciation for the applause they so deserve.

Mr. C was a great instructor and teacher for his students. It takes a lot of patience just being a teacher. Now just think teaching so many how to play a musical instrument! and were not talking one instrument, but all of them from the Tuba to the Piccolo......and yes Zach, the Trombone!




Well again I hope you enjoyed some of the clips from Zach's school band concert. One thing I want to point out is the family support the kids have. Us "Band Parents" supported our children from the start of their careers to ......................

Oh by the way, I may have one more clip to share so stay posted!

Final Concert Of The Year

Its hard to beleive that Zach and his classmates have completed their Middle School Years. It seems just like yesterday that I was walking down the hall with him on his first day. Both of us, bright eyed and bushy-tailed, but for different reasons.


Well this was another big last for Zach. His final concert at this level. The video above shows the kids taking their place and waiting for their turn to please the Audience.



Zach and his fellow Symphonic Band members got us into the mood with this medley of Disney tunes. You could see the audience swaying and bobbing to the beat. It really is amazing for someone who has no musical talent to have watched and listened to their progress. They have come a far way since Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star in their first concert back in 2006.


I really liked this song and the title was all Zach. Well, I guess him and his fellow horn players. I hope you all enjoyed these clips. I have a few more to post this week. Zach has a presentation to give on Monday and I'll be there capturing that moment as well. Last day of school is Wednesday and each day is planned. A busy, busy week for the kid.

What A Horse!!

What a fantastic Kentucky Derby!! Mine That Bird crushes the field!

I Hope you all got a chance to see the race if not I have it right here for you to enjoy. What a incredible come from behind win. Dead last and to won by so much. This is a neat story for us out here. The horse is stabled at the Sunland Park Race track right down the road. I know you will think I'm just pulling your chain when I say I picked this horse to win but I did. It really was an easy pick. First, A New Mexico horse, Second, The name, it had bird in it so George our parakeet was pulling for it and third, check out his race number, yep my lucky 8.
Sunland Park is usually a Quarter horse race track with some thoroughbred racing and the way this horse ran the last leg of this track he looked like a Quarter horse. They actually had two horses in the Derby from Sunland Park. One more thing, he was bought for under ten thousand dollars and beat horses paid for in the millions.





Now the big question, does Mind That Bird have the stuff to be a Triple Crown winner? Wouldn't that be neat! I sure hope so and I'll will be rooting for him!!

Wanna Feel Good All Over?

Another great video! No I don't sit around watching u-tube all day long. I find them, then steal them from others!!

I hope it made you feel good even for just a few minutes or all day. The internet really is bringing the world closer together. We really can see our neighbors differently can't we.

Wow! Have you seen this!!

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Incredible and yes I admit it brought a tear to my eye! Make sure that you go to U-tube and watch the whole performance!!

Encore

Yes by popular demand another musical piece by Zach and Company!



On the way home from the concert, I asked Zach if he really wanted to give up band. He has such a full schedule next year in High School. He is signed up in the R.O.T.C program next year. He shook his head and said that he wasn't sure. So I don't know if he's going to continue his band career or not. Whatever he decides, I'm sure he will make the best decision for himself.

Hope you all enjoyed the music. He still has one more concert left this school year. I'm sure I'll post some of that concert as well.

Spring Festival Band Concert

Yes it was a busy Thursday. Zach had his Spring Concert and it was wonderful!! The concert was part of a competition with various schools in the area. Sold out show which was great! All the bands sounded super but I was pretty sold on one. I think they stole the show. But then again I'm a little partial.


I thought this was a fun little clip. The next video is one of the three pieces they performed. I promise its all music, all Zach and company.


Told you it was pretty good! As you can see, I was able to get some nice shots of Zach playing his trombone. They have another show next week and its the big one. Its during the day and Zach told me that its not necessary for me to be there....... We'll see...... They will be judged on that performance by all the pros. I believe Simon Cowell and Paula are in for a treat! America's next idols is............. Yep, You got it, my boy!!

PENN STATE NIT CHAMPS!!!!!!

Wow what a game!! Did you ever watch a game and before it started knew that the outcome was going to good for your team? I'm not talking about the easy picks, just that feeling of confidence. I knew that Baylor was going to be a tough team to beat. I mean look who they beat just to get there. Georgetown, Virginia Tech and San Diego State. They are a good team and a pretty even match. The question came down who wanted it more. That was answered by Penn State. Led by the Senior Jamelle Cornley. He wanted it and played like it.

Zach and did tape it and watched the game after his Band Concert. It was a great performance by Zach and his fellow band members. I'll write about that later when I upload a short video clip for the web. I usually hate watching a game after its been played. I have three VHS tapes of a Superbowl game where the Skins destroyed the Bills. I still have not watched it. Parts of it maybe, but not the the whole game. This game was as good "Taped Delayed" as it was live!

Having 36 buses of students up from the school was great and they all could be heard in the Garden. They love their school and it showed. From some of the articles I have read, it sounds like Joe Pa was leading some of the cheers. Gotta love the guy!!

So was not going to the NCAA Tournament a disappointment? No Way. While 85 teams go home with nothing, Penn State goes home a Champion!!

Penn State In NIT Championship Game!!

What a Game!! Did Penn State look good or what?? Yea they got a little sloppy with about eight minutes to go but overall played a solid Game. Great defense and inside game. Now they'll play for the NIT Championship!! I don't about you but it sure sounded and felt like a home game to me. The added bonus of seeing Joe Pa at the game was super!

Hope you all enjoyed the game as much as we did and have a little spirit left over for the big one on Thursday! If you need a boost the fight song is still playing. They will be playing a tough Baylor team. I think a bunch of people on the east coast who will want a little sweet revenge on the Bears.

Now a little favor, Zach has a Band Concert Thursday night. He explained that it really isn't important and that he could miss it. I don't think so....... Besides everyone is dying to hear him toot is horn again. So anyway we will tape the game and watch it after the concert. So please no calls or E-mails.

Hope all those fans show up again to paint the garden Penn State Blue!! Game will be on ESPN at 7:00pm ET

Penn State is in the NIT Final Four!!

Pretty cool for us Nittany Lion fans!!

Okay before you read anymore I want you to scroll on down to the bottom of the page to the music player. When the music starts up, (you don't have to push a prod anything it should start in a second or two) then finish reading the article. Go on do it, I promise its cool.

Did you do it? Pretty cool huh, its the Penn State fight song performed by the Penn State Blue Band. That should help get you in the spirit.

Its been a great season for Penn State and a great post season so far. Big game on March 31, 2009 when they take on Notre Dame. It seems a little weird thinking about watching a Penn State game against Notre Dame and its not on a football field. All those classic games between them and now they meet on the court for another big game.
Zach was decked out for the game last week when they beat Florida! He really is a true blue fan of the N.Lions.


Now for some of us that were disappointed that we didn't get the invite to the NCAA Tourney, that's okay, Next year they'll be begging us to play in their little dance.

So don't forget to watch, March 31, its on ESPN2 at 9:00 p.m., ET. So put on the blue and pour yourself a cool one, its going to be a great game!!

Sing Along

I heard this the other day and started singing along. All of us "Old Folks" will remember it and I'm sure the young-uns have it heard it at least once. If not, I bet you'll like it! Great song and I guarantee the rest of day you will be humming its tune. You know what I mean!!

How Fast They Grow

So True Huh?......... Zach's last semester in Middle School(Junior High) and he's starting to lose that baby face isn't he? I really like the school photo this year just don't like the idea that he's growing up!!

Baseball & Spring around the Corner on Bry’sWorld

Well its starting to feel like Spring around here! Baseball starts up next month and everything that is suppose to be green will be well, green. I know some of you out there winter is still hanging around. White stuff falling all around and the blankets still piled high on the beds at night. Don’t fret your Spring is on the way. The photo is an old one from a few years back but I thought it was neat. I think it really captures Spring doesn't it? Cactus bloom with a Bee busy at work.

Zach and I are looking forward to Baseball and hope and that this is our season! Zach has finally decided to follow one team and its going to be the Tigers. He will still be rooting for Pudge wherever he ends up. Yep Orioles are still my team and I think it will be a better year. They have some good young players and have been rebuilding a good farm system again. Grandma is still rooting for her Diamondbacks but upset that Randy Johnson is off with the Giants. Hope your favorite team has a great season. Well unless their playing the Orioles, Tigers or D-Backs!!

George Showing His Valentine's Day Spirit !

Never knew that George our Parakeet was such a romantic! I'm not sure how he's going to attract a female friend flying around in pink. Maybe he was tired of is usual blue feathered suit.

George was not harmed in anyway, he was wearing special little bird goggles and.... Just kidding, George was not dyed or painted in preparation of his photo shoot.

A Nice Ending Story Inside A Tragic Story

I'm sure you all have seen this picture and the
wonderful story behind it. The good news, Sam the Koala Bear is doing just fine and even has a new boyfriend!!













I hope these guys made it out okay too. These photos really do remind us its not only about us and are property. Everyone and everything is effected.

A Hero We Really Need

I think we were all spellbound and glued to the television set watching the incredible scenes over and over again that day. We listened to the countless experts telling us how we all witnessed the impossible. We already knew that. We saw and felt something that we will never forget. We wanted to know who he was and how he did it. We did find out and America had a new Hero. I don't use the word Hero or label someone with that title often. I have a few, gone only to read about in books. I have no living Heroes but one, Captain Sully. What the man did that day is enough to call him a Hero but the more we learned about him allowed me to call him "My Living Hero". His life story is one of personal excellence and being the best at what he does. The actions after his fame is what did it for me. He was humble standing before a crowd of thousands. He spoke for only a few seconds basically saying that they were just doing their job. "they" not taking anymore credit for himself. The truth is, it takes a special man with amazing steel to do what he did.

The photo of the books tell another side of this man. A week after his landing on the Hudson River, he called his local library and apologized that the book he had checked out couldn't be returned. It was left behind in the hold of the plane. After all this man had been through......... he was worried about a book that he had borrowed. Yeah incredible. It tells a lot about the character of the man doesn't it.

Long post I know, the truth is I want him and all to know that this is the type of man or woman we need. At this time when our whole world seems to coming apart someone or something let us have this miracle. We need more Sully's leading us, setting the pace so we can follow his lead. We need our children to read his story and see that they too can be Heroes in their on way.

Yeah something special happened that day on the Hudson River. We were given a Hero, a living Hero. We as Americans cannot forget him or the type of person he represents as we so easily do in this age of instant gratification. Oh by the way, the book that he left behind on board Flight 1549, a book on Professional Ethics. I'll leave it there.