Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Playsets and Good Friends

From Project Playset
This post is a tribute to some really great guys that really lent a hand when needed. The story starts back in September when we found an incredible deal on a playset. Big playset ... little price. We drove over to check it out that night with cash in hand and suddenly it was ours. One big problem remained though: getting it home.

This is where the guys come in. I hit the phone lines and started down my list: Wil, Kyle, Clinton, Chris... I was getting lots of yes's, too. I was clear that this was going to be a big effort since the set was in a backyard with no gate. Wil even threw in his big trailer for the hauling part. The next morning at church, we roped Mike in, too. This was easily the best staffed project we've undertaken in a while!

We descended on that little playset that afternoon and it was awesome. We could have stocked a small hardware store with the tools we collectively brought. There were guys everywhere attacking it with all manner of battery-powered wrenches and sockets. Parts were flying off - slides, ladders, the little house on top. Then just as quickly they were loaded, hauled and dropped off in my back yard. My head was spinning!

This weekend we repeated the job. It was time to re-assemble it. Again, I called a few guys and they showed with all the requisite muscle and tools! This time Wil and Clinton were back as well as Brandon and Michael. It was amazing how quickly it went back together. Especially impressive was the part where we hefted the club house up onto the legs. We got video of that knowing that we would either record greatness or win 10K on America's Funniest Videos!

The playset now sits in our backyard crawling with our kiddos on a regular basis. I hope these guys know what a blessing you've been to me in this. Thanks for your time, tools and muscle!

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Dear Caffeine ...

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.

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Beauty on the Farm

Our family farm in Arkansas has always been a favorite place to be for me. When we were little, my brothers and I appreciated the myriad places and ways to get dirty, but as we've grown up, our interests have changed. We love the hunting and fishing, riding out through the pastures, walking in the woods and enjoying the outdoors in general. It is quite a sanctuary for us.

All three of the brothers and our wives enjoy photography at some level, and I have especially enjoyed finding photographic scenery at the farm. I have created an album online at Webshots with some of the best shots. You can find that one here:
http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/561949800vrGhjm

Here is a slide show from our most recent trip:



Posted by Picasa

Sunday, November 01, 2009

First Day on the New Gun

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!

Posted by Picasa