Gabe's Blog

Well, old friend, it has come to this - we must part ways. I know this is going to catch you by surprise, but my mind is made up. You are just no good for me. Don't try to change my mind, either.

Sure, we had some good times. I remember when I first met you as a kid chugging a Coke. We had a blast bouncing off the walls and terrorizing pets and parents alike. And, yes, I DO remember all those all-nighters you got me through. I might not have graduated high school without you. Even as I grew up and left Mountain Dew for Coffee, we sure had a great run! You introduced me to Coffees and Cappuccinos. We've even worked together for the last few years.

But, that's gotta change.I can't explain it, but the doctor says you're no good for me. People have told me that for years, but I didn't believe them. But, now I do. So, from now on, no more coffees - there I said it. I know this is shocking but I just can't. No more regular Dr. Peppers, either. I've got to start learning to live caffeine free!

Sure, I may catch you in passing, but I just need my distance. Take care old friend. I'll miss ya, but its best this way.

Tags: gabe

So, I got to shoot my new pistol, yesterday. And it was a blast! We're visiting my brother in the Houston area. He took us down to the local Carter Country with a public range. I bought some hearing protection and we headed down to the pistol area.

My brother and I both have the Berretta PX4 Storm. I opted for the 9mm version thinking that it would be a little feasible for Cheryl to learn to use the smaller caliber. Matt was shooting the .40 cal. We traded off and they were both great to shoot. I don't have a lot of time on pistols in general so without much to compare it to, I'll just say that it was very easy to shoot.

The target in the picture was my last one of the day. I loaded one clip and put all 17 round on a clean sheet. There were no wild shots and a couple of dead-on bullseyes. As far as home defense is concerned, if the burgler will just stand still in bright light, I'm sure I can get'em!

Tags: gabe, gear

I never win anything. Ever since Ed McMahon stopped sending me huge letters about the millions I (may) have already won, I haven't even tried to win anything on a regular basis. I don't play the lottery because I have at least a high school understanding of math and statistics, so I'm definitely not going to win at that. But, otherwise, I don't win the door-prizes at benefit dinners. The prize randomly stuck to the bottom of the seat of one lucky attendee is never stuck to my seat. I don't even happen on really good deals as often as some people I know do! But that changes NOW!

About 2 weeks ago I took my kiddos to Academy to pick up a couple of things. I was approached by a guy who may have been college age. He asked me to buy a raffle ticket. I said, we'll see (which is shopper for, "No!") I did my shopping but he came back! He was friendly with the kids so I asked him what group this was for. I turns out that the organization was a Christian group that shares the gospel with youth through the venue of hunting and fishing. The gig seemed good enough and I bought a $20 ticket with a long list of prizes - all guns - fully knowing this was a donation. I expected nothing!

Cheryl calls me at work yesterday and says, "It may be raining outside but the sun is shining on you!"
"What?"
"You won!"
"What!?"
"Some guy just called and said you won some raffle. He said you won the gun everyone wanted, too!"

Yes, I am a winner. It is official as of 6pm today - when I show up to claim my prize. What is it, you ask? I won a Beretta px4 Storm. if you don't know what that is, I didn't either, but I've been assured that this is a very nice handgun.

Tags: gabe

After a particularly good s'more, my son Isaac announced, "This is GROT!" Not being up to speed on this new evaluative term.

Cheryl inquired, "What is 'grot'?"

Isaac's eyes never left the s'more, and, without missing a beat, he explained, "It's better than great. It's GROT!" He smiled. We laughed hard.

Tags: family, isaac, overheard