thinking nuclear

A little update

2010-08-24T13:49:00.004-04:00

Well, it has been a while since I have felt comfortable taking the time to blog. The current update is that I passed the written portion and am almost sure that I passed the operational portion of the NRC exam. I am routinely updating facebook when I have a chance and after things slow down here I'll be posting more regularly again. Ciao

BOO!!

2010-04-12T17:49:00.002-04:00

What do you do when you hide from your 2-year old then jump out and scare him?? Say BOO!!

A little Eastertide quiet time

2010-04-12T17:26:00.003-04:00

I have been on the afternoon shift at the simulator and that leads to me not being very bloggy. The reason that it is quiet is that working daylite and getting home at 2:30 in the afternoon allows for some “dad and Jack” time and then his nap. So finding something quiet to do is good!! So, what have we been up to?? A quick summary: Three weekends ago, B was in the school musical (Cinderella), and he was Charming….I mean Prince Charming. He was amazing as always. I knew when he sang he was good, I just didn’t know how really good he is. Here are some pictures of him and his castmates after the Saturday night (last) show.

Day 10 trip back north

2010-03-05T19:47:00.006-05:00

We had a wonderful time and my eyes have recovered from driving home in blinding snow in the car headlights from the WV border to Lancaster Ohio. Enjoyed the sun and the beach and the time with my mom and two of my children. Nice to be home and by the beautiful summery flowers you can tell I was missed. Will have to take Monty and Brady with me next time.

Day 8 continues

2010-03-05T19:41:00.007-05:00

These pictures were taken at the Boardwalk Inn at Wild Dunes Resort on Isle of the Palms SC. We enjoyed a nice stay in a very comfy resort and had a nice walk on the beach at sunset and enjoyed dinner in our room (no pics of dinner). Would stay at resort again. Got the room for half price and it was a great bargin.

larger pictures I hope

2010-03-05T19:37:00.008-05:00

Hyman's Seafood and downtown Charleston SC.

vacation pics day 8

2010-03-05T19:04:00.007-05:00

These photo's were taken in Kathy's favorite city in the states, Charleston SC. The ones of Grandma and the kids were taken inside Hymans Seafood as the stickers on the box of crayons clearly shows. The other two photos are of the old slave market which is an open air market and the fountain in outside a downtown hotel.

vacation day 9

2010-03-04T23:17:00.002-05:00

these are from Saturday 27 febuary, they got to stay inexpensively at the isle of the palms in SC. Jack is a traveler.

vacation day 7

2010-03-04T23:07:00.003-05:00

if you noticed that there was a "lull," it was because of the laptop/power cord crapped out. not a big deal thought K captured them on her phone and posted them on her facebook account. she will post them later here, because she is......AWESOME!! these pictures are from 25 febuary

it may not have been whatcha thought

2010-03-03T18:51:00.001-05:00

I had asked (or tasked, whichever is more correct) H with posting 5 pictures from their vacation on my blog for my gratification. While they were gone, mom’s power cord failed and they were without a computer for several days. I am still trying to recover the pictures and to get mom a new cord/battery.

More Vacation Day 6

2010-02-23T18:16:00.006-05:00

Vacation Pics Day 6

2010-02-23T12:54:00.006-05:00

AT The Beach

2010-02-22T11:58:00.004-05:00

2010-02-22T11:55:00.000-05:00

First Day Of Their Trip

2010-02-19T16:24:00.004-05:00

NC as the sun sets... from the 6th floor window

Ravenswood WV

Still In The Snowy Lands

More snow...

The first picture of the trip of my daughter and son in the back seat... they had not even left the driveway yet

Not On Vactaoin

2010-02-19T16:18:00.003-05:00

2/19/10

The Family In SC for the day! leaving tomorrow morning to go down to FL...

Can't wait to see more pictures and hope they have an amazing time!

Pray for them and hope God brings them back safe!

belated holiday update

2009-12-06T17:26:00.005-05:00

As I was very busy during the week, here are the promised pictures of our tree decorating last week. I tried uploading at work and each time was bumped offline. It must have been that I was loading during class time and not really paying attention. The week ended with a test and some more simulator time. Since then I have been battling a migraine. I should say that I feel lucky that the frequency of my migraines is about one every 3 or 4 years.

For the next two weeks I am working midnight shift, down at the plant, not in the training/simulator environment. I prefer not to be in training, the guys at the “real plant” are much more down to earth. In other news K got a new job and is working 40 hours a week at the “version store.” The job is via a temporary service so she is getting as much work as is possible.

Here are the rest of the tree decorating pictures as promised

post-holiday update

2009-12-02T14:53:00.003-05:00

It seems even longer than it has been since I have posted. Some apologies are necessary, some are not. I have been busy with work and the like, taking care of those things that come up as the weather changes. The gutters got cleaned and firewood got stacked. The training classes were let out for the week of Thanksgiving, and due to some happy decisions earlier in the year, I worked that Monday and Tuesday. As the Unit was in an outage I was eligible for overtime on those days and on Friday and Saturday after thanksgiving. It was indeed a blessing as the renters in our little house in Idaho were evicted (not paying rent) and some major repairs were required. The house is now on the market…so if you know anyone interested let me know. In addition, early in November, I was diagnosed with a pinched nerve in my neck which leads to neck pain and tingling in extremities. The doctor proscribed a muscle relaxer and told me to take it easy. It just so happens that sitting at the computer and typing or using the mouse is very aggravating to the condition hence, no posts. As it happens now, I am at work sitting in a pretty ridiculous position to get this post done and to be able to go into the simulator this evening. Am including some pictures of the thanksgiving table, it was the 5 of us plus two of B’s friends who had very different but compelling reasons not to be at home for the day. It was a great meal and we all enjoyed it immensely.

My Birthday

2009-11-03T15:37:00.002-05:00

I had a quiet day doing chores and spending time with the family. Ok, maybe it wasn't so quiet after all but it was a good day and I really enjoyed having some in-plant time (not in classroom training)

jack' s halloween

2009-11-02T20:04:00.003-05:00

K, Jack and I went out trickortreating, initially I was not a big fan of the idea, but the longer that we were out, the more enjoyed myself. Pictures of Jack’s second Halloween are here

more halloween

2009-11-02T19:59:00.002-05:00

B and H took some friends trick-r-treating, riding in an different car than K, Jack and I. we ended up parked in the same church lot and had a great time. Here are some pix of the fun. Enjoy!!

halloween

2009-11-01T21:51:00.004-05:00

The St. Al’s haunted house had a new coordinator this year. K decided that that was what she was called for and she did a great job. It ran for one great night and here are a few pictures of the fun….

Jack on Monday for a change

2009-09-22T07:08:00.003-04:00

While I was looking at B's tires and cutting wood last evening, Jack was helping his mom in the kitchen. She obviously thought he needed a snack and gave him graham crackers with marshmallow fluff. The results are always interesting, so was getting him clean in the shower.

Jack on Sunday

2009-09-20T15:35:00.005-04:00

We had our comprehensive systems exam on Friday, my reaction as I walked out of the testing area was that it felt like the last 6 exams. I was right, ended up with an 88, just higher than my average in that area. The next area is normal plant operations (startup, shutdown, and power range transients) for the next month. Friday night, we treated ourselves to steak and adult beverages, Saturday did chores and hung out and today, cut some wood and having Pizza for dinner. K found a cool Halloween costume for Jack. When I saw it in the bag I was a little skeptical, but it is darling on him. While H, B and K went to Confirmation class, Jack helped me repair our wheel barrow, and after a ride in it, helped me adjust and clean the chain saw and reload it for tomorrow. FYI when I say “helped” I mean that Jack sat in his stroller and then in the wheelbarrow and played with a socket and ratchet. After that I tried unsuccessfully to convince him to nap. Gus and Misty were more in tune, though and here are some pictures for the day.

minivaca vol IIIc

2009-09-03T15:46:00.003-04:00

On Monday, we slept in and made our way back to the mainland. A nice lady on the ferry shared her day old bread which we fed to the gulls. Jack really enjoyed the birds getting that close, I was just happy that we didn’t get pooped on. The trip home was relatively uneventful as Jack slept for 2 of the 3 hours.

minivaca vol IIIb

2009-08-31T15:54:00.003-04:00

On Sunday, we went to a lovely Mass on the island and spent the day on the beach and at the campsite. We gathered wood left by campers in the park and had a nice fire. In the evening H and I took Jack to the jetty that shelters the boat ramp in the park. We all had fun and waved at the airplanes that went by.

minivaca vol IIIa

2009-08-23T19:49:00.005-04:00

Also on Saturday, we rented a golf cart and toured the island. Our family had done this before but Auntie and C had not. We had a good time. After our ride we stopped at one of the island’s fine restaurants and had an early dinner, it was a wonderful treat. Afterwards, we wondered down the block, B and C played putput and H got a temp tattoo. I think that her taste in “ink” kind of surprised the artist. Then we were off to the pier with Auntie and C.

minivaca vol II

2009-08-23T19:37:00.003-04:00

In my focus on work, I did fail to back K up and check her paperwork for our outing. She had thought that she had reserved a Yurt. Instead what she reserved was a “rent a camp” which was a camp building with 2 bunks, a Coleman stove and lantern and plenty of bugs. It was really fun, we got to rough it and not actually sleep on the ground/rocks. We set up and got to the beach early on Saturday. Auntie and C came up to see us and after a huge runaround and nasty hotel thing (see Auntie about that fun) we got together and had fun (liberally sprinkled with cocktails). Next year, we will definitely be Yurting as they have a potty in the tent. Here are some camping and family at the beach pictures for your edification.

minivaca vol I

2009-08-23T19:17:00.005-04:00

Last weekend we took a trip to Lake Erie to Kelley’s Island. It’s a small resort area near Put-In-Bay with a national park with enhanced camping. Our trip was auspicious from the start, as I had an exam on Friday at noon. This meant that I was primarily focused on doing well on the test and secondarily on everything else. It seems that when I was younger it was easier to multitask. Alas, had I not given up nicotine and herbal supplements it might be easier, perhaps I’m just old. To add to our discomfort, H had been ill all day and it was in question as to if she (and one parent) would come up on Saturday. In the end, as we were to find out later, we would have not have to have roughed it as much, but we all went together. Here are some pictures of the trip and I should mention that even thought H did puke on the hiway at Lordstown, by the time we got to Marblehead, she was much better. As always, we enjoyed the Ferry ride, almost makes me miss being underway,,,,almost. Enjoy the pictures.

more Marietta

2009-07-29T12:02:00.001-04:00

It was a nice visit and we enjoyed the Atlanta aquarium and seeing “the general” at the Southern Museum, unfortunately, the digital camera stayed in the car. B took 35MM pictures and I may be able to get them uploaded later.

Marietta Ga

2009-07-29T11:57:00.003-04:00

After our stay in Charleston, we went to see GM in Atlanta. She was very happy to meet Jack and to see H and B. H and B played some piano music for her and then B did some solo work. As always, when the music starts Jack is never very far away (picture of him under the grand piano).

more vacation

2009-07-29T11:48:00.003-04:00

Some pictures of flora and fauna in SC. Note that H and B took almost all of the pictures.

vacation part three

2009-07-28T11:15:00.002-04:00

Some pictures of our day at Kiahawa island

vacation part two

2009-07-28T07:01:00.003-04:00

We spent 5 fun filled days in Charleston, went to the beach at IOP and out at Kiawah island, toured cypress gardens in Somerville, went to the first settlement in Charleston (Charlestowne landing), toured Fort Moultrie and spent an afternoon downtown with lunch at the famous Hyman’s seafood house. The Villa pictured may look like any other generic military housing, and it is. The units are set up condo style and are in very good condition. Also, they are super cheap compared to a hotel. Also, please note the paleness, I got a serious burn and ended up wearing body armor to protect my skin.

Vacation part one

2009-07-28T06:42:00.002-04:00

After the exam grading and review on that Friday, I went home, changed clothes and we got in the car and left for SC. I failed in my spousal duties in that I did not insist that K actually make reservations at a hotel on our route for that night. The consensus was that it would be better to drive half way or so and take a break for the night (I was ok with doing it all on Saturday). So as we traveled south, Jack and I napped in the back seat while K and B shared the majority of the night time driving duties. As it slowly dawned on them that there were no rooms to be had, they turned to me for my thoughts. I said that it would be cool to take a morning nap on the beach. And that’s what we ended up doing. We got to the beach on Isle of the Palms about 0645 and stayed until lunchtime. Ate and then went up to the NWS to Foster Villas. The nice cleaning ladies let us unload our gear, making room for groceries and we went to the commissary. After shopping and our official check in we ate and went to bed. The kids and K slept through the only rain we had on our entire vacation. Included here are some pictures at Foster villas, Jack’s first experience with dad feeding him without a high-chair. It was an adventure to say the least.

June

2009-07-28T06:22:00.002-04:00

It was a busy month, all in all. License class for the month included unpaid overtime each day to study, several backshift days in the simulator (daylight shift is reserved for the training the operating crews), and several tests that included a comprehensive test over reactor plant primary systems.

Mid-month, we attended the youth conference at Steubenville. We took a combined group from our parish in ELO, and St. Paul’s in Salem, where K is the youth director. I was (volunteered by K to be) the male chaperone in addition to the normal dad duties that I have. So my weekend included, 8 trips between ELO and Steubie, getting Jack to day/nite care and being with the young men of our group at night. Needless to say, I didn’t get to go to any of the daytime sessions, but was able to attend the evening adoration and Sunday Mass celebrations. I am a firm believer that no one who spends time with Jesus in his Eucharistic form can come away unmoved, and Adoration at the conferences’ is always moving

At the end of the month, I was preparing for the afore menti0ned comprehensive exam while K and the older kids were making preparations for vacation. H and B had the camera for some fun, hense, no Jack. So here are some pictures to make it all worth it for you.

no excuses

2009-07-28T06:19:00.002-04:00

I've been busy and stuff, all of you parents of todlers, with a wife that works and two teenage older kids that are trying to get an SRO license know exactly what I'm talking about. I decided this morning that I needed to practice my typing and uploading skills, so here we are. some pictures and commentary from June and July to follow.

sweet Jack part two and his dog

2009-06-10T22:02:00.002-04:00

sweet Jack part one

2009-06-10T21:59:00.002-04:00

i can only load up five images at a time so here is your first installment

B and his issues

2009-06-10T21:56:00.001-04:00

here are some cool pix of B and his tude........!!!!!!

sweet "H" pix

2009-06-10T21:45:00.002-04:00

well, since i haven't posted in a while, here are some great shots of the girl child. enjoy!!

Reflections on blogging: No time for Whining!!!

2009-05-27T08:54:00.001-04:00

On my Anniversary I made my last blog entries and in the ensuing month have reflected on my blogs. It was a very busy time both at home and at work. K finished her last semester’s work and graduated. Both of the older kids were very busy with B going to France and being in the school play and H dancing 2 or 3 days a week. And as always there is Jack, he is growing so fast and is indeed a handful. He can actually make words and understands what we are saying most of the time. Simultaneously at work we were going through one of the “tough periods” in the process and were helping out on weekends at the plant, trying to get out of a refueling outage. Since then we put the fence in the back yard and are working on several other outdoor projects.

For blogging in general, many bloggers forget that their comments are in the public forum and are mainly available for public consumption. There are concerns in the business world that if a blogger makes some comment or confession, may have a negative effect on current or future employment. I have heard on more than one occasion, of a HR representative “googling” a potential employee, as a character reference. At the very least, some of these comments in professional, personal and military blogs, do tend to sound like whining.

On a personal level, I’m a busy guy with a wife and kids and work stuff, I really don’t have time to deal with negativity and need to efficiently use that time that I have to fulfill my commitments and to take care of myself. Additionally, I am working through “letting go” of the negativity that I picked up during my last assignment in the Navy. There were a lot of super positive things that I got out of that tour but there were a lot of negative as well, so many in fact that only a year into it, K indicated that I needed to transfer to the fleet reserve.

On a professional level, I feel lucky to have a job this year, in this economy, to be able to feed and house my family. As for the licensing method/process here at “the plant,” there are many layers resistance to change, for reasons that include self preservation, pride and self importance, in reality a lack of the teamwork that was stressed in the training environment in my last job. This leads to an environment in which much lip service is paid to the student feedback process but in reality is a colossal waste of energy and a great source of frustration and negativity. In evaluating the situation in the operations and training departments at “the plant” it appears that a professional blog that criticizes the license training method/process is a source of the very negativity that I am trying so hard to eliminate and just might not be a wise idea.

To that end, dear readers, I will limit my entries on “it’s your license to get” to answering specific questions about my nuclear activities and will endeavor to make some more meaningful entries on “thinking nuclear.”

monday jack late but.....ontime

2009-04-27T14:42:00.004-04:00

It’s been a grueling two plus weeks with K getting ready for her last set of finals for her last semester. She graduates on May 9, and she is really looking forward to having some free time. I did not do as well as I would have liked on my last exam, so I have been using my extra time to study. I hope that it works. Our (Jack and I) Sunday afternoon was spent finishing chores that didn’t get done while B was doing the school play and Grandmother “E” was visiting, and ripping the dishwasher apart looking for the noise it was making. It looks like the motor bearings are trashed, so I had a glass of wine and went out in the yard to hang with Jack in the sun. He enjoys being outside and is crabby on days when he doesn’t get to go out. Here are some pictures of us having fun, and perhaps a video of the play if I can get an upload. Enjoy!!

This weeks Jack

2009-04-08T13:46:00.001-04:00

It was a busy week with K getting homework done, getting projects ready and preparing for the youth group meeting over the weekend. Jack and I had fun several days in the sun as the weather was warm. I took these Monday just before and just after bath time. He thinks that playing in the dog’s kennel is fun and as long as its not too smelly I don’t have a problem with them. The picture of him in the kitchen is for scale, so that you all can tell how tall he has gotten. Enjoy!!

Saturday in the park

2009-04-02T10:47:00.002-04:00

We went to Thompson Park on Saturday to play Frisbee with H. Jack had a blast so we went back on Monday to get some exercise. Unfortunately, we failed to take the camera and didn’t get it out when we got home. K has been busy getting her last several projects together for her last classes before graduation so things have been hectic. She passed her catechism test after the third try (its harder than it looks) and will graduate on May 9. Perhaps we will have a big party for her. B is still off in France (the country) and still hasn’t called in. I hope that he will bring back some great pictures and that he will allow me to post some. For now, please enjoy the picture of Jack in the park in his buggy.

Jack in the Yard

2009-03-24T07:24:00.001-04:00

It was a chilly but sunny afternoon so H and I took Jack out in the back yard for some air. Got a great picture on the deck of them, then H tried a photo shoot in the grass. Please note the one where he is looking at the camera was with me standing behind H making faces at him. The group continues to be amazing. ENJOY!!

Saint Patrick’s day

2009-03-18T15:41:00.002-04:00

the day started out very foggy here, H was off of school sick and got an amazing shot off of the back deck. By the time that we all got home from work and got into pictures, the sun was shining and it turned out to be a beautiful afternoon. We went out with Jack and watched the chickens eat a snack and played in the yard. Note that Jack enjoys being inverted and is especially fond of being dirty. I think that these pictures of Jack are probably the best we’ve taken. Enjoy!!

Monday Jack

2009-03-18T15:23:00.003-04:00

Grandmother E was over for Sunday and Monday, so things were hectic and I did not get posting done. H and Jack were playing on the floor so I stepped into the melee and got some pictures. Enjoy!!!!

The birthday present ?!?!

2009-03-09T11:47:00.002-04:00

K bought him the 50th anniversary fischer-price family farm which we all enjoy. She also got him a kitchen set similar to the one that he plays with at daycare. The only issue was that the thing came completely disassembled. I mean like a model airplane, completely disassembled. As I had the exam the next day and it was after dinner, I tried to beg off to assemble it the next day, but B and K were having none of that. It ended up not being as bad as I had feared and B was a good helper. Enjoy!

Jack’s birthday

2009-03-09T11:43:00.001-04:00

As his day was in the middle of the week and I had a major exam the next day, we had a quiet dinner and then some cake. When we brought it out and put it on his tray, it must have intimidated him as he cried immediately. After we showed him that it was cake, he was on his way. Finally, he wore the ribbons that came on the cake and posed for a photo. Enjoy!!!!

A special week for Jack

2009-03-03T07:46:00.002-05:00

It is hard to believe that the little guy is a year old. He continues to be a source of wonder for me and a verification of God’s love for me and all of mankind. K has been burning her candle at both ends and is tired. While she was giving Jack a bottle, I was on the treadmill. When I came upstairs, I got this great picture of them both taking a little nap. After dinner Jack decided to show off by walking back and forth in the living room behind his little cart toy and we got that picture too. I am studying for a NRC exam today so will get this posted. More Jack pictures tomorrow of him on his special day. Enjoy.

this weeks Jack

2009-02-26T07:47:00.004-05:00

An interesting weekend to say the least, it was. K and I studying for major tests this upcoming week. K has a catechism test that is like a overall certification exam on Friday and I have the Generic Fundamental exam, which is the first phase of the NRC licensing process, next Wednesday. B has a part in the school musical (bugsy malone) and H just got done with science fair. She wouldn’t have participated if it was not a class assignment, but did well and is glad it is over. The pictures are of Jack and Gus following a meal of Italian meatloaf and pasta and of us during study time last night (or whatever H was doing on the computer). Enjoy!!

Favorite Things

2009-02-20T07:15:00.002-05:00

Each morning I attempt to listen to the “Writers Almanac” on NPR. Garrison Keillor gives some daily fun facts from the literary world and reads a poem. I find it quite soothing and today was especially so as it was about one of my favorite foods, pasta. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Linguini
by Diane LockwardWhat Feeds Us)
It was always linguini between us.
Linguini with white sauce, or red sauce,
sauce with basil snatched from the garden,
oregano rubbed between our palms,
a single bay leaf adrift amidstplum tomatoes.
Linguini with meatballs,sausage, a side of brascioli.
Like lovers trying positions, we enjoyed it every way we could
artichokes, mushrooms, littleneck clams, mussels,
and calamari-linguini twining and braiding us each to each.
Linguini knew of the kisses, the smooches, the molti baci.
It was never spaghetti between us, not cappellini, nor farfalle,
vermicelli, pappardelle, fettucini, perciatelli, or even tagliarini.
Linguini we stabbed, pitched, and twirled on forks,
spun round and round on silver spoons.
Long, smooth, and alwaysal dente.
In dark trattorias, we broke crusty panera,
toasted each other—La dolce vita!—and sipped Amarone,
wrapped ourselves in linguini,
briskly boiled, lightly oiled, salted, and lavishedwith sauce.
Bellissimo, paradisio, belle gente!
Linguini witnessed our slurping, pulling, and sucking, our unraveling and raveling, chins glistening, napkins tucked like bibs in collars,
linguini stuck to lips, hips, and bellies, cheeks flecked with formaggio
—parmesan, romano,and shaved pecorino—
strands of linguini flung around our necks like two fine silk scarves.

A day late

2009-02-17T11:52:00.002-05:00

Jack and the rest of the family were in Columbus over the weekend so that B could go to an open house at Denison University. By the time they got back last evening and we had dinner, there was no posting time. B enjoyed it but was made uncomfortable by the mention of a college tradition “nude week.” K and Jack have a bug and when I woke up this morning I was feeling crappy too. I’m not surprised, I spent several hours on Saturday and Sunday outside picking up garbage and cutting firewood. Jack really missed being at his house, I guess that when at GME’s he gets held a lot so that he doesn’t get into things. He also missed his bathtub and toys as evidenced in the picture. Enjoy!!

Valentine’s Day

2009-02-12T15:32:00.003-05:00

I asked her what she for Valentine’s day and to me she replied
I have no idea, and why waste the money, we should economize
I merely wanted to show my love and my appreciation,
For all she does and all she prays and her catechization.

So to this end I took a search, and on the internet
With Google’s help, I found this poem and recognized the poet
It is a small gem, but I knew when I found it
That it fits us very well and so I think I’ll post it.

She will be away from me this day of love
To tour a college with my eldest
Perhaps tis not a dreadful thing
Passing another family planning test.

I gave myself to him,
And took himself for pay.
The solemn contract of a life
Was ratified this way
The value might disappoint,
Myself a poorer prove
Than this my purchaser suspect,
The daily own of Love
Depreciates the sight;
But, 'til the merchant buy,
Still fabled, in the isles of spice
The subtle cargoes lie.
At least, 'tis mutual risk,
Some found it mutual gain;
Sweet debt of Life,
each night to owe,
Insolvent, every noon.

Poem 22 ( I gave myself to him ) a poem by Emily Dickinson

This weeks Jack

2009-02-10T11:05:00.002-05:00

Over the weekend H had a dance at school and invited B to go. I am really happy that the alumni can make an appearance occasionally. They were swing-dancing and from what the other girls in H’s class said were a hit. After the dance B brought the bunch back for a sleep over. As evidenced by my last post, Jack is ill this week and I spent most of the weekend doing light chores and watching him so that K could get part of her project (s) done for school and keep up on her reading. It took a lot of snuggling as Jack was pretty crabby. Both nights Jack was restless leading to me being tired last night and not getting the blogging done. The laundry and dishes did get done and Jack did get his bath. This weeks pictures are of the two oldsters in their dance clothes and of Jack moving around in the bedroom and hiding out in Gus' cage. Please excuse his jammies and the unmadeness of our bed. As always enjoy!!!

What's worse?

2009-02-10T10:53:00.001-05:00

-a sick baby or a sick tween?
-a crabby tween, infant or wife?
-cold weather or weather so cold and snowy that I can’t cut firewood?
-being in a class at work for which I should actually study at home or having a wife in her last semester of college with projects and homework to do?
-weather being warm enough to cut firewood or weather being so warm that I can’t to the firewood to cut?
-feeling physically crappy and sick or feeling physically crappy because I didn’t work out because I’m sick?
-going to central Ohio for the valentine’s weekend in two cars with the dog at the kennel or staying home, saving the money for gas and the kennel, cutting fire wood and studying?

I don’t know, but I’ve got it all this week.

Jack and other things that matter

2009-02-02T19:22:00.002-05:00

Sorry to those of you who are regulars (Mom), been kind of busy trying to get studied up for the initial phase of Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensing and taking care of the regular family business. The initial phase was instituted after the TMI accident because some of the operators in the control room did not fully understand the theory behind what the instruments were showing them. So the initial phase is theory. For more info on that go to the other blog (http://www.nukesro.blogspot.com/). This week was the Souperbowl at St. Paul’s in Salem O. This is where K is youth group leader/minister Saturday evening we went up for Mass and stayed to start the soups and play some games. It was an enjoyable evening, although Jack was ready to leave before the rest. He occupied himself the last half hour by licking all of the stir straws at the coffee mess in the meeting room. It was amazing to watch. On Sunday, we did some chores, made beans and ham and watched the Superbowl. As much as we hate to admit it, the Steelers are consistent and overall they played a better game. Of course Jack would not have anything to do with going to bed before the game was over and stayed up til almost midnight…..Turd. Here are the pictures for the week, H went to the book fair with K today (Catholic schools week continued) and is reading the book she got for Jack. And the other is of Gus wearing Jack’s winter hat. I think that they both hate it equally as it was on Guss’s head just about as long as we can get it to stay on Jack’s head.

snow and such

2009-01-28T15:09:00.002-05:00

All of the schools are closed today, and following our quiz the lead instructor sent us home as the roads were getting worse and the LAN connection on our floor was out of service (unrelated). So here are some pictures that I had intended to send earlier this week. I will try to get some of the snow to post later today.

Enjoy!!

2009-01-22T17:23:00.002-05:00

A quick Jack update, that’s right, he’s sleeping and I finally found the patch cord for the digital camera. The synopsis: big growing up indicators. He can pull up and balance enough to key the piano, climb the stairs and drink out of the big boy cup. Actually he drinks out of his cup like I drink out of a shot glass. It is kind of amusing watching him do formula shooters. He is making constant improvement and we are all so proud. H was out of town for the weekend and B is in the nation’s capitol for the March For Life. More on that later. Enjoy!!!

PS the T-shirt says FBI (fat, bald, Innocent)

on my return

2009-01-19T09:16:00.001-05:00

The last week was a little stressful and extremely busy such that every time that I logged on to blog, I got distracted. For details on the stress see my other blog as it was work related. I am working out more consistently and feel better for it. I will get some pictures of Jack today and get them posted. B went to the winter formal at Catholic Central last night. I would not have even waited up for him if it hadn’t been for the crappy weather here. We have about 12 inches on the ground and are getting about an inch of new snow a day. I wish I could figure out how to capitalize on the snow, as it is, its just a pain in the butt. H is in Virginia with her friend, they flew out on Friday and are returning today. K has started her last semester in school and is looking for a job. Keep that in your prayers out there…I’m dealing with a sore throat this morning and am hoping that it is not strep as H had it early last week. I’ll most likely have to go to the doctor tomorrow or Wednesday.

Jack growing up

2009-01-05T15:02:00.003-05:00

Several good things about being in license class include being on daylight and having a little extra time to blog at the end of the day (along with weekends off). This week’s pictures are of Jack with his drinking cup. I wouldn’t try to let him stay hydrated by this means solely, but he was having a ball sharing some of K’s coffee and some formula. In the last picture he is banging the cup on his tray as if to say "argh, more rum!!" the little pirate. We had a nasty virus this weekend with vomiting and fever. Just are now recovering from it fully. Have a Great week.

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T10:18:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year, K and the older kids went to Steubenville last night to a swing dance party at the cathedral. Jack was feeling pukey and I wasn’t really in the mood to dance so we stayed home and took a nap prior to midnight. The dancers got home just at the stroke and we all had a small glass of home made wine to celebrate. No work to day but will go to church later.

My prayer for the new year for us all is for Gods Blessing and a modicum of peace and stability. May He bless us all!!

the latest job news

2008-12-30T13:40:00.000-05:00

I had hesitated in posting anything about the NRC License class being held on the site because I was unsure if I would be in it. The Operations Manager, Sam, had called me in and stated that the SRO positions had all been filled but that he had a RO position available. Don’t misunderstand me, RO is a respectable position, just not what I was looking for. Consider my age, the fact that the program is 18 months long and that I would have to do the entire thing again I was not licensing twice. I had formally declined and had planned to finish my bachelors’ degree and then reapply when on Christmas Eve called me at my tour desk (I was on afternoon shift) and said that he had gotten permission to offer me the SRO job. So, after some soul searching (loosing a lot of overtime), I accepted the job. I’ll continue to blog about the family here but will be keeping you up to date on the class over at www.nukesro.blogspot.com. Come on over and check it out if you like…..

The year that grandmother saved Christmas!!

2008-12-28T19:38:00.002-05:00

I will not embarrass anyone with the size of her gift to us, but understand that it was enough that I was able to decline overtime on the weekend that my sister L, needed my help in moving. And enough to let me decline overtime to spend time with the family over the holiday without worry. We would have been able to make it without her gift, but this made it so much more!! Thanks Mom for the time (and the Wii) and Merry Christmas!!

Wii!!!!!

2008-12-28T19:33:00.002-05:00

K found one and I was initially skeptical. After hooking it up, we had more family time on my holiday weekend (Thursday and Friday) than we have had in several months. Well worth the expense (and Wii sore muscles).

Kringle

2008-12-28T19:30:00.001-05:00

This is Jack in his Christmas outfit. I initially was fairly uncomfortable putting him in it but, man isn’t he cute. Also included are some other Christmas morning pictures

Holiday and post holiday insanity

2008-12-28T19:16:00.002-05:00

For those of you who hadn’t heard, the plant management had shrunk the license class size such that there wasn’t a SRO position for me. I had declined to take the RO position and had decided that finishing my degree was the best bet for me. I was on evening shift on Christmas eve and just prior to leaving the site, the operations manager called me and offered me the SRO position. As such, I eventually accepted and am starting license class tomorrow morning. Once things stabilize, I’ll blog about the process to accentuate both positive and negative aspects for you voyeurs. The pictures are of cookie decorating on Christmas eve with the cousins (L visited from Columbus).

this Monday

2008-12-22T13:34:00.002-05:00

I had every intention of posting this last week and with all of the holiday hubbub apparently missed the “post button” these are of Jack and H. hamming it up. Please note the great big teeth in the boy’s mouth. Enjoy

Fun Jack pictures

2008-12-18T20:02:00.003-05:00

The smiling boy himself following a poop and just prior to a diaper change, he looks pretty satisfied with himself don't you think.

Animals and children, so sleepy....

Jack volunteered to wrap Christmas presents for charity with Mom, B and H, here he is getting ready…

Here we see Jack teaching a pesky young cat that if he is in the bed, and you visit, you may not get to leave..

The Advent Gathering

2008-12-18T19:44:00.003-05:00

H invited her St. Al’s class over for a “masquerade.” Actually, it was to dress up as a “James Bond figure” and it went very well, with over half attending. I was impressed that the young men all wore suit jackets. The picture is of the majority of them, where are they gathered? Around the food of course!! I think that it will be a yearly event with us and next year we may even invite some grown-ups.

bathtime pictures

2008-12-18T19:14:00.003-05:00

After careful review of the pictures in memory of our camera, I have decided that as busy parents, the most likely time to get Jack pictures is at bath time. We all slow down and enjoy the warm water (and watch him like a hawk). Here are some pictures from the last few days. Enjoy!!

Almost a fortnight

2008-12-13T12:15:00.004-05:00

It’s been a busy couple of weeks; I have been on daylight shift which has its definite advantages and disadvantages. The advantages are obvious, sleeping when the rest of the world does, sleeping with the spouse (and Jack), and spending quality time with the rest of the family and the like. The disadvantages are that there is actually some work to do at work, and the last two weeks we had observer/evaluators from INPO (kind of like the NPEB for you Navy types), so that it was difficult to get a good blog entry at work. We also spent last weekend helping my sister move from north of Columbus to Pickerington, O. We all actually had a great time helping. And as H is having her Christmas party at the house tonight, we had to do the mundane cleaning and get the Christmas Tree (S) up and decorated.

Jack update: he is pulling up to standing (on just about anything) and attempting to dress himself, actually he just tries to put clothes on, they're all pants to him and he really likes my boots.

The pictures are of our artificial tree upstairs and the live on we got for the basement/party. I hope to get some more pictures posted tomorrow of the party, please enjoy these for now!!!!

this week

2008-12-03T11:14:00.002-05:00

I put him in the laundry basket while were watching “yo! Gabba gabba” expecting a fit. He sat there for almost fifteen minutes before rolling himself out and crawling away. He is also enjoying playing with blocks. More on the week’s doings after my dentist appt today

enjoy

makeup Monday Jack

2008-12-03T10:59:00.003-05:00

These were taken on November 27 for the Jack. I had every intention of making a superb post but……(insert lame excuse)….. Jack is showing his “pulling up” skills and “helping” with the laundry. Additionally, the picture of BoyCat was his last meal, with us anyway. A nice lady from work was good enough to take him off of our hands.

holiday photo fiesta

2008-12-03T10:57:00.003-05:00

As I was on midnight shift for Thursday, thanksgiving was on Friday evening. We brined the turkey (ala Tyler Florence) and gave it the Italian rubdown. K made stuffing and mashed the potatoes and made yummy, from scratch cranberry sauce. Cranberry fool was the desert. We had actually almost finished when we realized we had not taken any pictures of the meal so, if you could see the other side of the turkey, you would notice that we had ate it. In his pictures, you can see the leftover sweet and white potatoes-all over him. After dinner, Jack took a big nap and then demonstrated his new stair climbing skills. BTW yesterday, he climbed up two stairs on the upstairs staircase. It was most disturbing…enjoy

Alas, December already

2008-12-01T10:35:00.001-05:00

Well, I had intended on posting a bunch of pictures taken during the holiday period last evening, Jack was napping and I actually had the time. Wouldn’t you know it, K had the camera at Youth group. During the ensuing search, I found that I actually hadn’t posted for two (2) weeks. Embarrassing, it was to say the least. It was a strange time both at work and home. We actually had work at work. I’m not sure how I feel about that, I mean work for time and a half or double time, sure, but work for straight time?? That’s poop!!! Jack is amazing as usual, he is pulling up to standing. I doubt that he will be crawling long! The older two are doing well, perhaps some pictures there as well.

I had started a post on things that I am thankful for, but the list is so long and most sounds cliché, so I will say this: I am working on being thankful for where I am and what I have. I complain and am usually stressed out by things that I do not have and fail to see that those things should illuminate what I should be thankful for. For example, I have two cars that are broke and I didn’t have the money to repair either of them, this causes me stress. What I should be thankful for is that I had the money to buy my old Junker and that it is running really well. So the list like this is really big and changing the paradigm is difficult, but I’m working on it. I will say that I am thankful for Jesus, that he is there for me wherever the Eucharist is, and that he died for me. The rest is gravy.

Several posts ago, my blogfriend Ed posted in and indicated that because of his active 2 year old, he and his wife were having difficulty getting temperatures, severely limiting their love life. Well, I am no expert on this but, I routinely get up and get Jack in the early morning, check the diaper and such, while K gets her temp and gets “the good stuff ready.” Perhaps that would help. Additionally, we are using the NFP book more like the “Pirate Code,” and trusting God a lot (with a wink and a grin). For you old Navy guys, think about plotting time/freq and getting just enough data to “fair a curve.” Should be good for a laugh for you old 637 electrical types.

Well, as I am actually at work, and signed on, I should actually do some work. We have some visitors for the next two weeks, you can google “INPO” or just think mini-ORSE. Pictures later today.

it's Monday again (work at work?? that's crap)

2008-11-17T12:50:00.005-05:00

I uploaded the pictures at the house, planning on loading text at work. Wouldn’t you know it, we actually had work. Well, not that much, I still surfed DA and did a crossword puzzle. Jack and I had a great morning and took these with mom. Perhaps I’ll see if I can get the video loaded at home. Enjoy!!

Dink again

2008-11-16T18:23:00.000-05:00

Alas, my blogging suffers for I have strayed into the world of Deviant Art. DA is a DIY site that I found in 2005 when looking for tattoo designs. Has some interesting stuff there, just keep your adult content filter on. This was today’s find. It is from the Latin “Tu fui, ego, eris” which translates into “What you are, I was What I am, you will be.”Latin saying, usually found on graves and I think its awesome

things you dont see every day

2008-11-14T13:15:00.003-05:00

H requested that I wear my uniform for the St. Al’s program, so here I am. The pictures are just OK. Note that since I wore my uniform, I had to shave and get a hair cut, hence the look on Jacks face. The poor thing is still trying to figure out why I look different after the haircut. For all of you, who are retired, be jealous if you can’t get into your last active duty uniform. I took it off of the hanger and viola!!! Instant (retired) Navy Chief. I do have to admit that the reason for at least one strained look is that the collar is about half an inch too tight. I unbuttoned on the way home and could actually feel the blood flow returning to normal. Additionally, last night I broke a tooth off eating peanuts so the smile may be a little strained. Overall it was a great experience; I enjoyed being in uniform again, and am glad that I am authorized to wear it on special occasions. Fret not, you advocates of civilian life, there is no, I repeat NO way that I will be wearing this uniform professionally again (unless God drops the hammer on me, again). On the negative side, it reminded me of the good aspects of the old canoe club and I’m having a (b)witchty night at work. The top picture is H clowning around with my combination cap and doesn’t she look good in uniform. Perhaps we will have to keep an eye on that, not wanting her to run off and join the circus (Navy) and all.

Saint Aloysius School's Veteran's day Program

2008-11-14T13:10:00.008-05:00

The program was wonderful, as usual, and the coffee and donuts were nice as well. I saw several of the other congregation members there, and was surprised at how many were Vets. I held off making a Veterans’ day blog entry until after this program, perhaps I was just being lazy. While I have always had a great overall respect for the men and women who have volunteered to serve and are still serving, I had considered my contribution small compared to a Viet Nam or Korean War Vet. It occurred to me today during the program that while keeping the “Evil Empires” at bay from the rest of the world was a quiet endeavor, it was no less important to the children of today than the efforts “in country” of other wars. And while it is not as visually dramatic as the efforts of our active duty military today, it is just as important. It is something that I am proud of, my small contribution and the difference that it made in the teams that I was a member of. Perhaps if we had done better in being aware of the “bigger picture” and sharing the real day-to-day import of our jobs to the nation, it wouldn’t have taken 3 years of retirement for me to realize it!

The pictures aren’t the greatest, but then I don’t have to worry about the legality of showing a bunch of minors on the web. Thanks to all you Vets, brothers and sisters in arms, may God bless you all and may God continue to bless America.

a little night music

2008-11-13T13:15:00.005-05:00

hey, there was supposed to be some text here..........

during K's homework time last night B was playing piano while I loaded the dishwasher. It took twice as long as it should have because I was enjoying the intensity that the boys had while playing.

the monday jack

2008-11-10T22:21:00.003-05:00

It has been quite a week, both online and off. I had a crazy weekend of espresso blend coffee and blogged from work this weekend, the weather turned cold and we had snow, and Jack is as cute as ever. Here are some pic’s of him today being himself having some choclate chip cookie batter of mom's delicious design. enjoy!!

Halon on submarines??

2008-11-09T13:53:00.001-05:00

The BBC reported the accident with updates today.

Halon is normally used around highly valuable computer, telecommunication, switching equipment and in the engine rooms of ships. Its advantages as a fire extinguishing agent was that it had lower toxicity other chemicals and that since it was a covalently bonded, it did not form conductive ions which made it usable on electrical equipment. Production has been banned in most countries since 1994 as part of the Montreal Protocol on ozone depleting substances. We use it here at the nuclear plant in computer, switchgear and relay rooms. The commercially available systems that we use consist of storage tanks, actuation control systems, alarms/lights (gives you the 30 second evacuation warning) and each subsystem has a manual override capability. The purpose of the override is so that if the discharge is inadvertent (unsanctioned as the Russians say) it can be stopped, however, it is a spring return mechanism designed such that once released, the 30 second timer starts again. When concentration reaches about five percent the atmosphere will not support human life and breathing apparatuses are required.
I have also found through my training as a fire/hazmat responder here that the face pieces of the EAB’s on the boat would most likely sealed fairly poorly in the event of an actual emergency (you’d stay alive but use a lot of air).
I can see using an agent like this in a building, if the warning goes off, run out the door. I can even understand using it on a surface ship, once more if the warning goes off, run out the door. I can not understand using a system like this on a submarine, even if it were “overengineered” like a lot of the things on boats. Additionally, having an automated system like this on a boat doesn’t pass the “good engineering practice” or common cense test.
My prayers are with the dead, crew, and families of the NERPA.

final thoughts - for now

2008-11-09T13:25:00.001-05:00

For those submariners that are so vehemently opposed to women in submarines, I was initially shocked at your reactions. Do could you think so poorly of the character of the Officers, Chiefs and Enlisted outside of the Submarine force that you automatically are against their volunteering to serve. Is their Honor in question? their Courage? their Commitment? After some consideration I realized that this is not the case and that perhaps what Submariners really fear is that women in Submarines will bring and bring out all of the negativity in themselves, the negativity that they can and do cover with Submarine “bravado.” Perhaps having the diverse experience of working for women, with women and as their supervisor as well as having some distance from day-to-day Submarine operations has given me some larger perspective. In hindsight I thoroughly enjoyed my active service in our boy’s club. Perhaps we should not complain too much and draw too much attention to ourselves. Perhaps on this issue too, we should remain the Silent Service.

co-posted at TSSBP

Some good reasons to not allow women on submarines????

2008-11-09T13:22:00.001-05:00

Berthing/heads/hot racking- hey all these issues have their negative side, and with planning the lack of space can be dealt with.

Feminine products-
I seem to remember a male sailor flushing a pair of underwear down the toilet (for whatever reason-stupid coner nub) and when they opened the SAN tank to recover them, he went in. It was a great objective lesson for the entire crew.
On surface ships female sailors are have the same storage area for all of their stuff as their male shipmates and still stock their “things” along with other hygiene items (just like the ELT’s on the boat). So, yes it would be tough for a long deployment or a detergent patrol but, the guys do it.

Strength/stamina-from experience I can tell you that there are some pretty weak male sailors in our submarine fleet and that I have seen two female sailors carry a hydro rig up five decks on surface ship ladders, so this is a wash.

Eve’s curse-I have allowed, on occasion women who worked with/for me to “take it easy” for the day during their menses; however, it was at about the same frequency that I allowed my male shipmates to “rest” after a night of “heavy steaming” or being up with a sick child/spouse/girlfriend/dog.

Fraternization-there are specific regulations on this subject and as several of my submarine brethren have noted, Submariners follow the rules. So, a female sailor who gets fraternizes and/or gets pregnant onboard/underway is definitely in violation and gets punished as applicable.

Pregnancy-There is an entire instruction dealing with this issue (OPNAVINST 6000.1C dtd 14 JUN 07). Service women “Are expected to plan a pregnancy in order to successfully balance the demands of family responsibilities and military obligations.” “Are expected to perform military duties within the limits established by their condition.” And “Have the same rights and responsibilities and are subject to the same administrative and disciplinary actions as all other naval personnel.” So what this tells me is that if a sailor gets pregnant to avoid a deployment, or on deployment or at any other time to avoid her duty, she is derelict and should be punished much in the same way as a sailor who fails to get enough rest or gets too much sun exposure and cannot perform their duty would be punished. This would also be implied for a lack of planning that results in a unplanned pregnancy.

And lastly, I hate to even address this issue but MM brought it up over at TSSBP: “equality for blacks and minorities, there is still huge disparities with them in the sub service.” While I doubt MM’s credentials to actually make this statement, in my experience there is a deviation between demographics in the country and in the Submarine Service. I attribute this to two things neither of which is as nefarious as MM implies. First is opportunity outside the Navy. If a person of color has the academic chops to get past the NFQT and volunteer, he has a better chance at getting a scholarship than his pale counterpart, so why sign up when college is a “better option.” Secondly, is opportunity inside the Navy. I have seen several nukes of color both in the pipeline and after get snatched up for some great programs to make them officers. Once there, I was told by one, he looked downstream and determined that he didn’t “want to go through the hell that Submarine JO’s go through” and he is in the supply corps now. I forsee the same happening with women.

I am not a proponent of women on submarines

2008-11-09T13:21:00.000-05:00

I worked with and for women on both of the submarine tenders that I was assigned to under “nuclear circumstances,” without issue. My reasons are purely selfish and they are these:

I liked not having to worry about making gender specific comments (like “quit being a little sally!!” or “hey you guys” and the like).

I did not like not being able to talk about how much I liked or disliked certain physical attributes of some or all women.

I did not like having to continuously remind myself that there are fat, ugly, nasty male sailors too, and that I could not treat a female shipmate that was that way differently.

I did not like having to not get assigned to work with certain shipmates and to not look at those shipmates when they were working in a Drape CSCA (because man, did she look good in anti-c’s).

I did not like having to tell my electrician buddies that they couldn’t make a “dick out watch” as payment for a bet.

I did not like feeling like I needed to keep my teeth brushed and plenty of deodorant on when working.

So overall, it was inconvenient for us to all not act like a bunch of rude horny teenagers with bad mouths and poor hygiene. On both ships, if you acted unprofessionally, you got what you deserved.

On Submarining as religion

2008-11-08T09:05:00.001-05:00

My impetus for writing was a post on bubbleheads.blogspot.com concerning women on Submarines. I was initially going to post my opinion on this issue but have come up with something larger for your contemplation.

All organized religions have some of the same tenets with the largest being this: a calling to do things that are contrary to basic human nature. So as far as I can see, the Submarine Service is actually a religion. Now all you “navy-haters,” short timers and SNOB’s hear me out and refute my logic. The Submarine service is all volunteer, some of us are raised into it by our families, but still must sign up (several times). You can leave if you want, and I mean really, really, really want and are prepared to accept the consequences. You sequester yourselves for extended periods, following an arduous routine of hard work and self denial. You put your body into a metal tank full of high explosives, nuclear warheads, high energy piping, high voltage equipment, toxic chemicals and nuclear radiation, submerge it and take it around the world. You leave your loved ones at home while you prostrate yourself in whatever position you have to get into to fix/clean/preserve that pump/valve/motor. You flagellate yourselves with traditions that cause sleep deprivation and neurosis (ORSE/TRE/NTPI preps) both at sea and import. You follow arcane rules that no one really remembers the root of and that often lack common sense, because the “great prophet” decreed them (see the EDOM) only to find out that when these rules are disregarded that disaster results. And finally, only a select few in the world have any appreciation for the work you do and the trials you endure. The rest look at you as a group and say “I sure wouldn’t do that, its crazy.” So, you might not like it but, it looks like a religion to me.

The end result of this nuclear powered crucible is one of two things, the first and unfortunate is that the “slag” floats to the top and is skimmed off and discarded. (Please note here that I am indicating how you react to the heat, not how long you are in) The second is that the resulting “alloy” of men (and perhaps women) and machine is a shining example for the world to see. It is a source of pride for each Submariner for his entire life, if he served one tour or an entire career.

This withstanding, my opinion on women on Submarines is this: when the Wardroom and Goatlocker decide that it will happen, it will. Without incident they will do it and they will excel because that is how it is done on Submarines. Yes, there will be wining, and complaining and difficulty and some will not be able to deal with it and fail, much like what happens in the surface fleet today. But with all that I indicated above, the crew will follow orders whenever they come down.

As for the political side, I don’t think that my wife would have been very happy about it, but she didn’t freak out when I went to sea on either tender that I was assigned to. On the first I worked with and for women and had women work for me on the second. And we can all find legal and social excuses for it to not work. And I think that the upcoming administration will have so many other bigger, more terrifying fish to fry that they won’t even get to this issue.

derelict blogger!?!?

2008-11-07T10:03:00.012-05:00

So, the derelict blogger returns with a quick update before the next Monday Jack. I got off my but and checked all of my email accounts and five of you actually sent me mail to check on me, thanks.

I came off of midnight shift and ended up with a crappy cold for Halloween and my birthday. I worked on my birthday to take the second off to go to the Diocesan Youth Conference with the K’’s combined youth group.

We all had a good time at the conference, had some adventures too!! The kids investigated some potential vocations, and while we were helping with the lunch crowd, Jack got locked in a classroom for fifteen minutes (he was asleep and I didn’t freak out) the pic of the door is the one that was inadvertently locked when a teen slammed the door.

I took Tuesday off to get some long delayed chores done and was lucky enough to have time to rack my other batch of crabapple and Sara’s Pear. Then proceeded to take a “long winters nap” on the living room floor. See the video and don’t laugh too hard.

The rest of the week has been in training for me and school for the rest. General silliness with H and Jack, funny food faces and both of them in Jacks bed.

The main seal failed on the AVEO last night on the way home and we are now shopping for a new engine and a good mechanic. Looks like I will have to raid the 401K for money to fix it.

I am also negotiating a new (company) Job here on site so keep me in your prayers.

Also, speaking of prayers, keep Joel over at TSSP in your prayers he was diagnosed with cancer this last week.

I will endeavor to get a sea story posted this weekend as I am working and usually have time to do the USATODAY crossword.

Enjoy!!!

OK, so the video won't load from work.....posting later.....CIAO

So Geeky, So cool!!!

2008-10-23T02:02:00.002-04:00

For those of you who don’t know, I’m a serious Battlestar Galactica geek. Not enough to make costumes or to go to COMICON, but serious enough to own all the episodes on DVD and to play them (with the volume way up) when I am on the treadmill. I also have managed to infect my older two with a mild fondness as well, alas poor K. As I had a few spare minutes tonight at work, I was cruising http://www.scifi.com/battlestar/ looking for hints on the new season. I found this super-geek computer case. I’m posting a picture but the link is better. Enjoy !!

http://dvice.com/archives/2008/10/battlestar_gala.php

I’m an official “submarine blogger”

2008-10-22T22:34:00.001-04:00

Yeah, I was just checking on TSSBP (at work of course) and he listed me as an active submarine blogger. That just made my day. Now I guess I’ll have to post more exciting work/Navy stuff. Thanks Joel!!

jack feeling much better

2008-10-22T00:40:00.000-04:00

Jack stayed home from daycare today as he had the fever that I mentioned in yesterday’s post. I stayed up with him until K got home from school. Well, actually we kind of hung out and snuggled and napped most of the morning. Afterward, I got a few hours before and a couple more after dinner. Kind of takes up the entire day…and I’m still tired. So here are some pictures and I’ll see if I can get the video to upload.

a blue monday

2008-10-21T03:21:00.000-04:00

…A very blue Monday indeed. With K on a field trip for school and me having the day off (midnight shift), we got B and H off to school, grandmother on her home (she came over to help out) it was just Jack and I. After our shower, he had a melt down and it lasted for an hour and a half. We came to find out that he was coming down with something as shortly after I picked him up from the babysitters (I had to nap) he had a fever, poor little guy. So no pictures this Monday, Ill try to get some when he feels better.

As for our week, the ones of us in school are doing well. Work goes fine for me and Jack is growing so fast. He can almost crawl, he can get up on hands and knees but hasn’t taken off yet. I get the feeling that he won’t crawl very long, going quickly to walking. B and I moved firewood that I cut earlier in the week and then we had a load delivered. The weather was so nice that we both had short sleeved shirts on and now we both have poison ivy. Not too much but just enough to be annoying, perhaps I’ll post pictures of that later this week.

this is MY jack

2008-10-14T00:26:00.000-04:00

I got him dirty and then cleaned him up. Actually the pic’s of him drinking from my glass are “jack and coke.” Just coke and my Jack. He loved it and that tells me volumes about who he is. Perhaps we can get some video this week. Love to you all. and the normal "mr.potatoehead" from our Monday to you!

monday.....and I'm actually blogging

2008-10-13T19:31:00.000-04:00

That’s right folks, I actually am making my entry on time. The bad part is that the camera with the Monday Jack is at home and I am looking down the turbine hall at our “money maker.” So, to keep things honest, I’ll post this and then when I get home at about 2300, put up some pictures.

An eventful week, some days off, some overtime, some back shift. I am on swings this week and have been spending the mornings with Jack. He is truly amazing and too smart for my good. His new thing is chewing on electrical cords and playing with outlets. We are working on the cords and are covering the rest of the outlets on Friday (payday). We are having some firewood delivered on Friday and I am in the process of trying to get a locust tree cut up in the yard. It should be enough to wood to get us through the first of the year. I’ll post pictures as they come up. Also, we re-painted the wood stove this week, I am hoping to get it hot and seasoned before the weather turns (should smoke a lot) and to get the chimney cleaned. If the cost of wood stays the same, I’ll most likely get another cord and a half from a friend who had several trees come down during IKE. H spent the weekend in NC at her first NASCAR race. She sounded like she enjoyed it, I’ll ask her to comment on this post. Well, as we say around here, “I gotta go do something nuclear.”

no, that is not me, not that turbine is not big enough and no, that guy is not an American.

Holy crap, its monday.....again

2008-10-06T23:43:00.000-04:00

Well, this week I am making some sacrifices to get the Jack to you on time. Yes ,dear bloggers, I took Tuesday off and after performing my many husbandly, fatherly and manly duties (including the bourbon and water) have put the entire family to bed and am making my entry on Monday. Things following most recent cancellation of the license class that I was supposed to be in have been most hectic. H has what we thought was strep (wrong) , B went to Steubie for a “hangout” with friends (scary) and Jack is eating from his own plate (see video below). I was on training this week (see the INPO website for some juicy human performance stuff) and was barely able to stay awake. I want you to enjoy something special this week, namely extra pictures not taken today including his bath in the kitchen sink, playing with mom on new clothes day and the messy boy video from dinner. Love to you all

this weeks Jack

2008-10-01T06:13:00.000-04:00

Things here have been hectic and it doesn’t look like its going to let up for a while. First off, let me apologize for my failed attempt at another blog. I had intended to chronicle my run at a commercial license but due to some failures to plan on my mangers’ part the class cant start until January 09. So I will endeavor to get something entertaining and funny together for then. It will most likely be the “vent path” that I mentioned last week so if you are sensitive, it might do you well to steer clear. We have school, school, school and overtime here this week (I got paid over a dollar a minute to do a valve-lineup yesterday). Jack is crawling and pictures and video follow

Enjoy!!

less monday, more Jack

2008-09-24T12:29:00.000-04:00

My kids are the greatest! Really, when things are difficult, they do indeed impress me. With the power and cable out for a good portion of last week, they didn’t complain, they read, played games and rode their bikes, keeping busy. B got his drivers license on Saturday although he hasn’t soloed yet, and I am not really going to push it. H has a bad cold and missed school on Monday and Tuesday. Jack got shots on Monday and K skipped school. All in all, things could have been ugly, but they were all really good. We are doing some extra things to get ready for the fall, cutting fire wood, oil changes for the car and putting away the pool. I am mentally getting ready for license class and am starting another blog to give me a “vent path” for this ordeal. The picture of Jack with the hat is what he wore to Mass on Sunday and the ones from Monday are him playing in the water dish in the kitchen. The new thing VIDEO!! Jack crawling in the living room from a couple of aspects. Enjoy

Ike and stuff

2008-09-17T03:05:00.000-04:00

It was an uneventful week, until Sunday evening. Mother-in-law (MIL) was visiting and I was getting ready to start the midnight shift. K and B had gone to Youth group and H/mil were watching Jack, when I went to take a nap. When my alarm went off, it sounded like all hell had broken loose. Tropical storm Ike had arrived. Power was unreliable at the house and as I left, K told me to watch for downed trees. It took me almost an hour to go the ten miles to the plant because of traffic and backtracks to avoid downed trees. The only places on the PA side of the border that I could see that had power were the two plants on the river. No trouble at the plant and the grid was amazingly stable. The only bad thing going on was that the Cable was down, hence no Jack on Monday. I got tired of waiting and uploaded him at work for your enjoyment. The two pictures show him moving toward the camera under his own power and I am going to try to figure out how to shoot video on the camera so that you can see him in action. Enjoy!!

a buisy weekend

2008-09-09T10:38:00.000-04:00

We had a busy week and weekend. I worked both days and K had quite a bit of homework. We are all adjusting well to the new schedule of work and school. I picked Jack up and he fell asleep while going to get H at the bus stop. He is so cute. Also included is a fresh picture of H and I. Enjoy