I am known to be a helper and a volunteer. I gladly give up personal time to help those in need and see it through, despite the project. I joined an organization, the Jackson Jaycees, to help save a chapter from certain doom, in 2004. I remained with the organization because I saw opportunity, and now there was a team of friends to help, as we all, for the most part, had a common goal.
In November, 2008, we elected a person preaching change, and the hope of it. Although I didn't vote for him, I pray for his success, as it will seriously influence the direction of the country, in which I live. Despite this reluctant support, I still see more problems that would overwhelm just one man, in a high position.
Today, I attended a meeting for another organization in my community. After listening to the key speaker, Dr. Salah Huwais (Executive Director of JCEG, Jackson Citizens for Economic Growth), and Robert Rando, Blackman Charter Township Supervisor, I now am starting to actually grasp the opportunity shown.
We have a chance to make a larger impact on the community of Jackson than I first expected. There is an opportunity to reverse the economic depression we have been experiencing for the past five years. There's an opportunity leave a mark, in time, with which I will have been a part of. I am looking forward to working with JCEG, the Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce, and the QUESTIONS organization in making Jackson a community of leaders and professionals, both young and old. I see the opportunity to help the citizens, in the community, actually be proud of their hometown. I see an opportunity to make a difference; and right now is the time to act.
I invite questions and suggestions from you in how you would like to see change occur. I invite your input of what changes you would like to see happen and your involvement, for it is with great numbers and constant vigilance that we can make a difference. Please comment and/or contact me directly with how you would like to become involved. This is where it starts. Help us make a change in our community.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Hope
I will be the first to step forward, in this day of history, to admit that my vote did not count toward the man standing before us, on television, the internet, video-caster, and radio, saying that solemn oath as he steps forward as the next President of the United States of America. No, my vote went to his opponent, John McCain.
Am I ashamed of my vote? No. Maybe my conscience is secure in the way things were, not wanting to change or waver from what, in my mind, seemed stable. Change to me was unnecessary, and despite what comments come, questioning how I could think that way, my stance on that was resolute and "unchanging." I offer no answers or comments on my behalf.
No matter, though, because the man that is now our President is preaching change. He is preaching Hope. I'm not sore because he is there, but rather hopeful that he does a good job. I watch, from a distance, with anticipation that he will follow thru on many of his promises, and await the proof that things are changing for the better.
President Obama has excited me with his words and his actions. I see a young man in a position to create a positive change in America, although I remain skeptical. It's not a bad position to be in. So I didn't jump head-first into the Obama excitement. So I didn't place my vote for him. If the common result is the same, and we all arrive in that spot of support, despite our different paths, wouldn't that be the complete goal?
As a former McCain supporter, I would like to persuade the citizens of America, specifically those that read my blog, to support the young man that has sworn to SERVE us in the highest position in our land, the United States of America.
May God bless President Barack Obama, his family, his staff, and our country. He has my support as I hope for the change he has promised. He was right, "Yes We Can," and it'll only happen when he has a strong group of supporters.
Thank you,
Dave
Am I ashamed of my vote? No. Maybe my conscience is secure in the way things were, not wanting to change or waver from what, in my mind, seemed stable. Change to me was unnecessary, and despite what comments come, questioning how I could think that way, my stance on that was resolute and "unchanging." I offer no answers or comments on my behalf.
No matter, though, because the man that is now our President is preaching change. He is preaching Hope. I'm not sore because he is there, but rather hopeful that he does a good job. I watch, from a distance, with anticipation that he will follow thru on many of his promises, and await the proof that things are changing for the better.
President Obama has excited me with his words and his actions. I see a young man in a position to create a positive change in America, although I remain skeptical. It's not a bad position to be in. So I didn't jump head-first into the Obama excitement. So I didn't place my vote for him. If the common result is the same, and we all arrive in that spot of support, despite our different paths, wouldn't that be the complete goal?
As a former McCain supporter, I would like to persuade the citizens of America, specifically those that read my blog, to support the young man that has sworn to SERVE us in the highest position in our land, the United States of America.
May God bless President Barack Obama, his family, his staff, and our country. He has my support as I hope for the change he has promised. He was right, "Yes We Can," and it'll only happen when he has a strong group of supporters.
Thank you,
Dave
Saturday, October 25, 2008
The University of Michigan Football Iceage
They suck. Plain as that. No way to sugar-coat it. No way to make it sound better than it is. Plain and simple, they suck.
I have been a fan ever since I can remember, and despite their bad year, I will continue being a fan. I will call it as I see it though, and there is no way they can even dream of overcoming this year.
I get razzed a lot because of these facts, and I take it in stride knowing that for the past 2 decades, I have been able to rub it in their faces that Michigan rocked their team and maybe even screwed them out of a championship.
Every team has their falling out. Most recover into teams that are stronger than they ever were. Some don't. The U of M football team will continue to suck this year, and I continue supporting the greatness of the team, come what may. I know that this one bad season will become a stepping stone; a building block.
Look at the facts: Brand new coach, very few experienced players, many just out of high school, tons of freshmen, no knowledge of the new coaching style. This team is like a newly formed expansion team with a bunch of teammates and coaching staff who have no idea who each person is. They know their own style, and they are learning to work with the strangers they just met this past Fall.
The problem with this set of facts is that Michigan must face one or two horrible years to get back on the right track. I am hoping for the most horrible year for them. They need some humiliation to show them the bottom of the barrel. From there, they can learn how to work as a team to climb out of it and excel like they have in the past. Call it the U of M iceage. A regeneration of greatness.
This year, they suck. Next year will look better than this year, but they will still suck. In 2010, I predict that they will get revenge, as they achieve the same prestige they had in 1997. As for 2008, Go Blue, Keep up the streak, and remain consistant. Your day is coming; prepare for greatness.
Dave
I have been a fan ever since I can remember, and despite their bad year, I will continue being a fan. I will call it as I see it though, and there is no way they can even dream of overcoming this year.
I get razzed a lot because of these facts, and I take it in stride knowing that for the past 2 decades, I have been able to rub it in their faces that Michigan rocked their team and maybe even screwed them out of a championship.
Every team has their falling out. Most recover into teams that are stronger than they ever were. Some don't. The U of M football team will continue to suck this year, and I continue supporting the greatness of the team, come what may. I know that this one bad season will become a stepping stone; a building block.
Look at the facts: Brand new coach, very few experienced players, many just out of high school, tons of freshmen, no knowledge of the new coaching style. This team is like a newly formed expansion team with a bunch of teammates and coaching staff who have no idea who each person is. They know their own style, and they are learning to work with the strangers they just met this past Fall.
The problem with this set of facts is that Michigan must face one or two horrible years to get back on the right track. I am hoping for the most horrible year for them. They need some humiliation to show them the bottom of the barrel. From there, they can learn how to work as a team to climb out of it and excel like they have in the past. Call it the U of M iceage. A regeneration of greatness.
This year, they suck. Next year will look better than this year, but they will still suck. In 2010, I predict that they will get revenge, as they achieve the same prestige they had in 1997. As for 2008, Go Blue, Keep up the streak, and remain consistant. Your day is coming; prepare for greatness.
Dave
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Doom and Gloom
Has anyone noticed that the media is loaded with 98% bad news, 1% good news, and 1% constructional news?
It seems they have taken from the reality shows that ordinary citizens that read stories about the newsmakers or famous people where someone is getting hurt, being humiliated, or has bad experiences.
Why is good news such a bad seller? I don't think it is, but the ordinary person likes learning that the popular names and issues are on their level in certain situations. Here are some titles I have come across, and I'll tell you what, I am an ordinary citizen, and most of these topics frankly either piss me off, frustrate me, or depress me:
"US Pulls the Trigger"
"Oil Climbs Above $84 per Barrel"
"Retail: Worst is yet to Come"
"Worry Over Profit Outlook Halt Early Stock Bursts"
"Stocks in a Struggle"
"Pepsi to Cut Jobs, Close Plants"
"GM Closing Two Factories"
"Virginia Orders 570 State Layoffs"
"Loans: Do's and Don'ts"
Ok, we don't need it to be pounded into us that the economy sucks, that the US dollar is losing its worth, that gas prices are high, and people are losing their jobs. I don't believe that having the same title in the newspaper, worded differently, is a pleasant reminder. I drive by the pumps everyday. I have friends on the hunt for employment. I have 401K statements that note every dollar I have lost in the previous quarter, showing me how bad the stock market is.
The one article I might read out of that list is the last one. It offers a solution, or a help, that may or may not help me or someone I know that is going through a hard time. The economy sucks, and rather than cramming a fact, I know to be true, down my throat, let's become constructive and let people know a piece of advice or lend a hand to someone that might need the help.
Everyday, we read everything and anything we come into contact with has some negativity associated with it, and that, until it turns around, we will all feel that negativity and it'll hurt us. Why doesn't someone come up with a way to turn it around rather than think it'll do it when its ready? Who's out there brainstorming how to change things so that we're not all feeling the crunch? Why don't we see more titles in the newspaper from the more popular people on how they make it thru this hard time, with notes and tips of how it could work for us?
Are we all citizens who love the doom and gloom of everyday life? Oh Whoa is me! Life sucks when you do nothing to make it better. And know this, nothing will get better as long as no one is seeking a solution. I am, by no means, someone in a position where millions of people listen, watch or read my stuff.
I'm currently seeking advice from those that have been able to work thru the hardships, and they make it work POSITIVELY for themselves.
The way I am living thru these hard times?
High Gas Prices:
My way of making sure I can live thru the fuel crisis is to drive less, walk more, and ride my bike more. I cannot go everyday with those solutions. My bike is not my primary mode of transportation, but because I have implimented its use, it those trips to the store or to my mom's house where I have not used my car, and, in the long run, have not used that gas I could use for longer trips.
Unemployment:
I have a job. I thank God I have a job. I have some friends that don't, and I understand, thru them, what they are going thru. How do I help? I keep my eyes and ears open within the workforce that is still thriving and pushin on. I leak news to him about area companies that are looking for help, even if it's temporary. If I were to lose my job, God forbid, I will have gained an another set of ears and eyes when I'm out there looking for employment.
The Stock Market:
I'll be the first to say I don't understand those numbers, what they mean or how it all works, but I do know that an arrow pointing up is good, and an arrow pointing down is bad. Lately, we have seen a bunch or downward pointing arrows. Not a good sign! I have no idea how to switch the polarity on them either. I watch the arrows, hoping someone out there will be able to present a solution, spread it to everyone else that knows how it works, and we will see a change in direction. Until that happens, I will be setting my affairs in order, and planning to work until I see the Lord and my dad again. It's not unreasonable, just undesireable. I will do what I have to do for my family and for me.
Dave
It seems they have taken from the reality shows that ordinary citizens that read stories about the newsmakers or famous people where someone is getting hurt, being humiliated, or has bad experiences.
Why is good news such a bad seller? I don't think it is, but the ordinary person likes learning that the popular names and issues are on their level in certain situations. Here are some titles I have come across, and I'll tell you what, I am an ordinary citizen, and most of these topics frankly either piss me off, frustrate me, or depress me:
"US Pulls the Trigger"
"Oil Climbs Above $84 per Barrel"
"Retail: Worst is yet to Come"
"Worry Over Profit Outlook Halt Early Stock Bursts"
"Stocks in a Struggle"
"Pepsi to Cut Jobs, Close Plants"
"GM Closing Two Factories"
"Virginia Orders 570 State Layoffs"
"Loans: Do's and Don'ts"
Ok, we don't need it to be pounded into us that the economy sucks, that the US dollar is losing its worth, that gas prices are high, and people are losing their jobs. I don't believe that having the same title in the newspaper, worded differently, is a pleasant reminder. I drive by the pumps everyday. I have friends on the hunt for employment. I have 401K statements that note every dollar I have lost in the previous quarter, showing me how bad the stock market is.
The one article I might read out of that list is the last one. It offers a solution, or a help, that may or may not help me or someone I know that is going through a hard time. The economy sucks, and rather than cramming a fact, I know to be true, down my throat, let's become constructive and let people know a piece of advice or lend a hand to someone that might need the help.
Everyday, we read everything and anything we come into contact with has some negativity associated with it, and that, until it turns around, we will all feel that negativity and it'll hurt us. Why doesn't someone come up with a way to turn it around rather than think it'll do it when its ready? Who's out there brainstorming how to change things so that we're not all feeling the crunch? Why don't we see more titles in the newspaper from the more popular people on how they make it thru this hard time, with notes and tips of how it could work for us?
Are we all citizens who love the doom and gloom of everyday life? Oh Whoa is me! Life sucks when you do nothing to make it better. And know this, nothing will get better as long as no one is seeking a solution. I am, by no means, someone in a position where millions of people listen, watch or read my stuff.
I'm currently seeking advice from those that have been able to work thru the hardships, and they make it work POSITIVELY for themselves.
The way I am living thru these hard times?
High Gas Prices:
My way of making sure I can live thru the fuel crisis is to drive less, walk more, and ride my bike more. I cannot go everyday with those solutions. My bike is not my primary mode of transportation, but because I have implimented its use, it those trips to the store or to my mom's house where I have not used my car, and, in the long run, have not used that gas I could use for longer trips.
Unemployment:
I have a job. I thank God I have a job. I have some friends that don't, and I understand, thru them, what they are going thru. How do I help? I keep my eyes and ears open within the workforce that is still thriving and pushin on. I leak news to him about area companies that are looking for help, even if it's temporary. If I were to lose my job, God forbid, I will have gained an another set of ears and eyes when I'm out there looking for employment.
The Stock Market:
I'll be the first to say I don't understand those numbers, what they mean or how it all works, but I do know that an arrow pointing up is good, and an arrow pointing down is bad. Lately, we have seen a bunch or downward pointing arrows. Not a good sign! I have no idea how to switch the polarity on them either. I watch the arrows, hoping someone out there will be able to present a solution, spread it to everyone else that knows how it works, and we will see a change in direction. Until that happens, I will be setting my affairs in order, and planning to work until I see the Lord and my dad again. It's not unreasonable, just undesireable. I will do what I have to do for my family and for me.
Dave
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Life Changes
This post will be simple, and hopefully will spark some thoughts of yours.
I am interested in how a "near death" experience would impact you and your day to day lives. If some medical phenomenom or other entanglement occurred in your life, and it nearly ended your days on this Earth, what would you do?
Life would obviously be viewed differently, but for how long? Would the experience alter your life, making it more adventurous or making it more cautious. Would you experience life as much as possible, or would you sit back, relax and watch everyone around you experience life? How would it affect you? Or,... Would life not change for you? Would you continue through life as nothing ever happened?
For me? I believe I would have to admit to all of the above. I believe I would be as adventurous as I have been, trying new things with a sense of caution, knowing that I would have to abstain from some activities that would frighten me or directly influence a negative affect to whatever made me brush so closely with death. I believe that whatever made me think about it would be a constant reminder throughout the rest of my life, but as time passed, I would relax more and more until my daily life became the norm.
For instance, I was involved in a rollover car accident while driving 80 miles per hours on a dirt road several years ago. I was 17 years old, and the first flip was end over end, followed by three consecutive flips to the side. I rolled a total of four times, in a 1978 Ford Fairmont, four door sedan, without airbags. When the car came to a stop, on its wheels, I was laying across the back seat. I walked away from the accident, although my outlook of driving again was scarred.
For about six months following the accident, I refused to drive on a dirt road. When I finally decided to do it, my speed limits were far slower than the recommended limit, as posted on the signs. It has been 20 years since that accident. My average speed on a dirt road is about 35 miles per hour. Even now, I am reminded of that accident everytime I drive on a dirt road. It does not affect my driving now, although I don't drive 80 on it anymore.
I believe I have learn limits from my brush with death by being cautious at first, then gradually trying new things until I was confident I was living life to the fullest capability. I will say, however, that my accident did not stop me from doing things that had no direct influence with which I escaped death. It didn't stop me from finishing school or crossing the street.
These are my thoughts, but I would like yours. I'm interested in what you think.
Dave
I am interested in how a "near death" experience would impact you and your day to day lives. If some medical phenomenom or other entanglement occurred in your life, and it nearly ended your days on this Earth, what would you do?
Life would obviously be viewed differently, but for how long? Would the experience alter your life, making it more adventurous or making it more cautious. Would you experience life as much as possible, or would you sit back, relax and watch everyone around you experience life? How would it affect you? Or,... Would life not change for you? Would you continue through life as nothing ever happened?
For me? I believe I would have to admit to all of the above. I believe I would be as adventurous as I have been, trying new things with a sense of caution, knowing that I would have to abstain from some activities that would frighten me or directly influence a negative affect to whatever made me brush so closely with death. I believe that whatever made me think about it would be a constant reminder throughout the rest of my life, but as time passed, I would relax more and more until my daily life became the norm.
For instance, I was involved in a rollover car accident while driving 80 miles per hours on a dirt road several years ago. I was 17 years old, and the first flip was end over end, followed by three consecutive flips to the side. I rolled a total of four times, in a 1978 Ford Fairmont, four door sedan, without airbags. When the car came to a stop, on its wheels, I was laying across the back seat. I walked away from the accident, although my outlook of driving again was scarred.
For about six months following the accident, I refused to drive on a dirt road. When I finally decided to do it, my speed limits were far slower than the recommended limit, as posted on the signs. It has been 20 years since that accident. My average speed on a dirt road is about 35 miles per hour. Even now, I am reminded of that accident everytime I drive on a dirt road. It does not affect my driving now, although I don't drive 80 on it anymore.
I believe I have learn limits from my brush with death by being cautious at first, then gradually trying new things until I was confident I was living life to the fullest capability. I will say, however, that my accident did not stop me from doing things that had no direct influence with which I escaped death. It didn't stop me from finishing school or crossing the street.
These are my thoughts, but I would like yours. I'm interested in what you think.
Dave
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Deer Hunting Coming to an End in Michigan
Hey all,
Got some news in from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources today. It seems that CDW (Chronic Wasting Disease) has been confirmed in two wild deer on a gaming ranch in the souther peninsula of Michigan.
I have been keeping an eye on the news about hunting lately as it seems the state is determined to end all hunting, drive the deer herd numbers to incredible heights by doubling the price of a hunting license, adding a gun hunt to the list of seasons, and now eliminating all baiting for deer in the lower peninsula.
I am in just about the lowest county in the state, save one. The CDW was found several miles north of me, and now my hunt will be severely crippled by this latest ban imposed by the DNR. The first sign that the DNR was suffering was when the state closed several checkpoints. We had one in Jackson for several years, until about 15 years ago. The checkpoints were a place to take your game in to have it checked for any serious diseases as well as to get a patch. My dad had several of these patches sewed onto his hunters orange vest, dating back into the mid-70's. As I did not get my first deer until 2000, and the DNR checkpoint had long been removed from the county, I have never received a patch. I have done my part though, by successfully tagging eight of these majestic creatures to fill the freezer and feed my family.
The next sign came in last year where it was announced that the cost for a combination license was going to increase by double. Where does this line of thinking come in to play? This dramatic price increase will result in two endings: 1) Only the employed, die-hard hunter will pay the price to keep hunting, and 2) there will be an increase of poaching and unlicensed attempts at getting the meat to put on the table. With Michigan being the hardest hit state, in the union, with the recession, and the unemployment rate tickling the 9% region, it's really not that hard to imagine how many unlicensed hunters will be taking to the fields this year.
Everyone is used to rising costs as of late, but usually they are gradual and easy to adjust to. This one is not. It takes a serious consideration and decision as to what is highest on your priority list and how to get around the laws in place to get what is needed to survive. Venison is counted on as a primary source of food in a lot of homes around the state.
It was announced that the DNR was adding another gun season to the roster of seasons available to just about every kind of hunter out there. The typical seasons start with the bow and arrow season, which is placed prior to the rut. The season goes into the rut, beginning on Oct. 1, and ending on Nov. 14. Late in the rut, gun season kicks in (Nov. 15 - Nov. 30). It only lasts 15 days, but the movement by the deer is high as this is the season that most of the hunters take to the field. After the gun season is finished, bow season resumes and doesn't end until Jan. 1.
During the bow season, there is a muzzle-loader season and a late firearm season for doe only. It seems that this year, the DNR is adding a doe only gun season prior to the regularly scheduled bow season. It is known by every hunter that as soon as the deer realize they are being hunted with firearms (not hard to realize since guns make a lot of noise), they escape from their daily lives to properties they know to be safe. In my case, that means they retreat to some prison property, not to be seen again until the following year. with this season in place, the deer will conduct their rutting season off property, in the safety of their new homes.
The latest action posed by the DNR has limited our way of patterning the deer herd for a successful hunting season. Baiting has been changed throughout the years. I remember going out with my dad and dumping hundreds of pounds of bait all over the place, thus changing the directional patterns of the herd to come near to where we are positioned to get off a successful shot. In the past few years though, baiting has been restricted to so many pounds spread over so many feet, in a sparingly pattern. The deer still changed their patterns, and I was still able to put meat on the table.
Ok, a lot of non-hunters would lobby to say that a good hunter should be able to take the game without the use of bait, and they would be right. I can clean the glass on my car with the use of windshield wipers alone too, but the blue water that shoots out of the car sure does help in making it successful. Call it a luxury that we all got used to, and use effectively. Guess I will have to rely on the scent packs I have until they ban those to, as the deer develop ultra sensory issues with their sinuses in accordance to the rocks floating around Saturn.
I understand the problems with CWD, but a ban state-wide (erm, I mean in just the entire lower peninsula) is plain mad. Another aspect of this complaint could be coming from the local farmer that is now up a creek as his Fall and Winter income has been banned throughout the LP of the state. But I will let them rant on that one.
Take care,
Dave
Got some news in from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources today. It seems that CDW (Chronic Wasting Disease) has been confirmed in two wild deer on a gaming ranch in the souther peninsula of Michigan.
I have been keeping an eye on the news about hunting lately as it seems the state is determined to end all hunting, drive the deer herd numbers to incredible heights by doubling the price of a hunting license, adding a gun hunt to the list of seasons, and now eliminating all baiting for deer in the lower peninsula.
I am in just about the lowest county in the state, save one. The CDW was found several miles north of me, and now my hunt will be severely crippled by this latest ban imposed by the DNR. The first sign that the DNR was suffering was when the state closed several checkpoints. We had one in Jackson for several years, until about 15 years ago. The checkpoints were a place to take your game in to have it checked for any serious diseases as well as to get a patch. My dad had several of these patches sewed onto his hunters orange vest, dating back into the mid-70's. As I did not get my first deer until 2000, and the DNR checkpoint had long been removed from the county, I have never received a patch. I have done my part though, by successfully tagging eight of these majestic creatures to fill the freezer and feed my family.
The next sign came in last year where it was announced that the cost for a combination license was going to increase by double. Where does this line of thinking come in to play? This dramatic price increase will result in two endings: 1) Only the employed, die-hard hunter will pay the price to keep hunting, and 2) there will be an increase of poaching and unlicensed attempts at getting the meat to put on the table. With Michigan being the hardest hit state, in the union, with the recession, and the unemployment rate tickling the 9% region, it's really not that hard to imagine how many unlicensed hunters will be taking to the fields this year.
Everyone is used to rising costs as of late, but usually they are gradual and easy to adjust to. This one is not. It takes a serious consideration and decision as to what is highest on your priority list and how to get around the laws in place to get what is needed to survive. Venison is counted on as a primary source of food in a lot of homes around the state.
It was announced that the DNR was adding another gun season to the roster of seasons available to just about every kind of hunter out there. The typical seasons start with the bow and arrow season, which is placed prior to the rut. The season goes into the rut, beginning on Oct. 1, and ending on Nov. 14. Late in the rut, gun season kicks in (Nov. 15 - Nov. 30). It only lasts 15 days, but the movement by the deer is high as this is the season that most of the hunters take to the field. After the gun season is finished, bow season resumes and doesn't end until Jan. 1.
During the bow season, there is a muzzle-loader season and a late firearm season for doe only. It seems that this year, the DNR is adding a doe only gun season prior to the regularly scheduled bow season. It is known by every hunter that as soon as the deer realize they are being hunted with firearms (not hard to realize since guns make a lot of noise), they escape from their daily lives to properties they know to be safe. In my case, that means they retreat to some prison property, not to be seen again until the following year. with this season in place, the deer will conduct their rutting season off property, in the safety of their new homes.
The latest action posed by the DNR has limited our way of patterning the deer herd for a successful hunting season. Baiting has been changed throughout the years. I remember going out with my dad and dumping hundreds of pounds of bait all over the place, thus changing the directional patterns of the herd to come near to where we are positioned to get off a successful shot. In the past few years though, baiting has been restricted to so many pounds spread over so many feet, in a sparingly pattern. The deer still changed their patterns, and I was still able to put meat on the table.
Ok, a lot of non-hunters would lobby to say that a good hunter should be able to take the game without the use of bait, and they would be right. I can clean the glass on my car with the use of windshield wipers alone too, but the blue water that shoots out of the car sure does help in making it successful. Call it a luxury that we all got used to, and use effectively. Guess I will have to rely on the scent packs I have until they ban those to, as the deer develop ultra sensory issues with their sinuses in accordance to the rocks floating around Saturn.
I understand the problems with CWD, but a ban state-wide (erm, I mean in just the entire lower peninsula) is plain mad. Another aspect of this complaint could be coming from the local farmer that is now up a creek as his Fall and Winter income has been banned throughout the LP of the state. But I will let them rant on that one.
Take care,
Dave
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Memories
I was engaged in a conversation via email, earlier today, about the way I write. Many people have asked why I don't write professionally or even attempt to write a book. I just don't see how I could. When I write, most of what I type out or put on paper is my current thought, or something that reminded me of a topic that interested me.
The latest conversation had to do with several memories, each spawned by one person. As it is known, this month is August. It's a normal month, happens every year, and comes into play between July and September every year. It has thirty-one days, as usual.
It is, in August, that my thoughts tend to wander into the past, prior to 2003. Although one person has influenced these day dreams of memories, there are always triggers that make the mind think of this one person. In August, on the first weekend, the American Cancer Society runs an event, in the community, that is a main fundraiser for a cause. The cause is contained in the name of the organization. It's a cause that I hate, even though it demands respect.
Cancer is a known factor in my family. My great grandpa had lung cancer. My grandpa had esophageal cancer, and the one person that I think most about is my Dad. He passed away, on August 23, 2003. Brain cancer was diagnosed in April of 2003. It was a gioblastoma phase IV. It was located in a part of his brain that was inoperable. He was given 4-6 months. He fought for four and a half months.
Options were presented to him and the family. The usual radiation and chemotherapy was an option. Then there were the "experimental" drugs and therapies. (Here's a little history) When my grandpa was diagnosed, he refused any treatment, and decided to just let the cancer take over his body and eventually, kill him. It upset me that he didn't want to fight to remain with his family. A few months of fighting would have impressed me at the time. I felt he was being selfish. Within three months, my grandpa was gone, and we braced and mended our broken hearts and moved on.
My dad knew how much it tore at the family that grandpa didn't choose to fight. I believe it hurt him too. He hid his emotions from us, his sons, very effectively. He poured his heart out to his wife though. It was good to see his strength in this time of grief. I'm happy he had his wife, my mom, to confide in and help him thru that time.
When Dad's time came, it didn't take him long to choose to fight. I'm so proud of my Dad. He understood the risks with the "experimental" drug path he chose, as well as the chemo and radiation.
The chemo made him tired and weak. He was wasted after an afternoon of popping the pills associated with the chemotherapy. Then came the radiation. Several trips were made to Ann Arbor, MI to have it administered. All the time, his wife was by his side, supporting his every visit. I'll never forget the day that Dad's hair began falling out. That was the first time I had seen him cry. I tried my best to comfort him; something he used to do for me when I was hurt. I encouraged him to "chin up" and move on. He would be back out on the golf course before he knew it and this was a small price to pay.
Then came the rigors of the "experimental medications" and therapies. At first everything was great. He felt more strength and felt he could do more. That did not last long though. Eventually, Mom had to get a hospital bed put in the house. The family and neighbors worked long hours, one weekend, to install a ramp for his wheel chair.
Of course, there were days that he felt strong, and some days where he spent a lot of time sleeping. He fought though. There was one day, in particular, that I remember well. He sent Mom and my brother, sbostedor, into the hall. He told me he was tired of fighting. As much as I didn't want to hear him say those words, I knew it was coming. He had gone through more than I think I could possibly handle. Kidney problems, swelling, weakness, tiredness, being bed-ridden, confined to a wheel-chair, falling without notice, and the final straw... The "experimental" drugs he was taking had eaten thru the walls and linings of his intestines. This happened at home.
I was out riding my bike, with a trailer containing my one year old son. I was about a mile from the hospital when I got the call. Dad was being prepped for a rushed ride to the hospital for emergency surgery and things didn't look well. The ambulance was picking him up as I talked to my Mom. As carefully and quickly as I could, I beat the ambulance to the hospital.
Dad passed away a few weeks after he was operated on. I was in the room when he took his last breath.
As difficult as it is to type this out, THIS is what has been on my mind the past few weeks. He was my Dad, my mentor, my comforter, my leaning post. He was my hunting partner, fishing partner, and friend. Of all these parts of my life that he has filled, in the past, he remains my hero. His life reflects in me and always will. He lives on, thru me. The memories I share are his continuance in this world, for those that knew him, and for those that did not.
As I dry the tears, keeping the memory page open, I promise to continue creating memories with my son so that in the years after I am gone, I too can actually live on, not in body, but thru my son. My Dad has shown me the importance in doing this.
How will I be remembered? Not even close to how I remember my Dad, but it is a goal.
On a side note, when it's my turn to pass on (if I have a warning), I don't know what I'll do. I have watched my Grandpa not fight, suffer and die within a few months. On the other hand, I watched my Dad fight, suffer and die within the same amount of time. It all comes down to who suffered less in a specific amount of time. I saw no difference, except the extreme feeling of pride while watching my Dad give that ole cancer a run for it's money, although it came at the greatest price, his life.
I have better, more pleasant memories of my Dad, but these are the ones weighing heavy on my mind at this very moment. Writing them out has been helpful.
I love and miss you, Dad!!
The latest conversation had to do with several memories, each spawned by one person. As it is known, this month is August. It's a normal month, happens every year, and comes into play between July and September every year. It has thirty-one days, as usual.
It is, in August, that my thoughts tend to wander into the past, prior to 2003. Although one person has influenced these day dreams of memories, there are always triggers that make the mind think of this one person. In August, on the first weekend, the American Cancer Society runs an event, in the community, that is a main fundraiser for a cause. The cause is contained in the name of the organization. It's a cause that I hate, even though it demands respect.
Cancer is a known factor in my family. My great grandpa had lung cancer. My grandpa had esophageal cancer, and the one person that I think most about is my Dad. He passed away, on August 23, 2003. Brain cancer was diagnosed in April of 2003. It was a gioblastoma phase IV. It was located in a part of his brain that was inoperable. He was given 4-6 months. He fought for four and a half months.
Options were presented to him and the family. The usual radiation and chemotherapy was an option. Then there were the "experimental" drugs and therapies. (Here's a little history) When my grandpa was diagnosed, he refused any treatment, and decided to just let the cancer take over his body and eventually, kill him. It upset me that he didn't want to fight to remain with his family. A few months of fighting would have impressed me at the time. I felt he was being selfish. Within three months, my grandpa was gone, and we braced and mended our broken hearts and moved on.
My dad knew how much it tore at the family that grandpa didn't choose to fight. I believe it hurt him too. He hid his emotions from us, his sons, very effectively. He poured his heart out to his wife though. It was good to see his strength in this time of grief. I'm happy he had his wife, my mom, to confide in and help him thru that time.
When Dad's time came, it didn't take him long to choose to fight. I'm so proud of my Dad. He understood the risks with the "experimental" drug path he chose, as well as the chemo and radiation.
The chemo made him tired and weak. He was wasted after an afternoon of popping the pills associated with the chemotherapy. Then came the radiation. Several trips were made to Ann Arbor, MI to have it administered. All the time, his wife was by his side, supporting his every visit. I'll never forget the day that Dad's hair began falling out. That was the first time I had seen him cry. I tried my best to comfort him; something he used to do for me when I was hurt. I encouraged him to "chin up" and move on. He would be back out on the golf course before he knew it and this was a small price to pay.
Then came the rigors of the "experimental medications" and therapies. At first everything was great. He felt more strength and felt he could do more. That did not last long though. Eventually, Mom had to get a hospital bed put in the house. The family and neighbors worked long hours, one weekend, to install a ramp for his wheel chair.
Of course, there were days that he felt strong, and some days where he spent a lot of time sleeping. He fought though. There was one day, in particular, that I remember well. He sent Mom and my brother, sbostedor, into the hall. He told me he was tired of fighting. As much as I didn't want to hear him say those words, I knew it was coming. He had gone through more than I think I could possibly handle. Kidney problems, swelling, weakness, tiredness, being bed-ridden, confined to a wheel-chair, falling without notice, and the final straw... The "experimental" drugs he was taking had eaten thru the walls and linings of his intestines. This happened at home.
I was out riding my bike, with a trailer containing my one year old son. I was about a mile from the hospital when I got the call. Dad was being prepped for a rushed ride to the hospital for emergency surgery and things didn't look well. The ambulance was picking him up as I talked to my Mom. As carefully and quickly as I could, I beat the ambulance to the hospital.
Dad passed away a few weeks after he was operated on. I was in the room when he took his last breath.
As difficult as it is to type this out, THIS is what has been on my mind the past few weeks. He was my Dad, my mentor, my comforter, my leaning post. He was my hunting partner, fishing partner, and friend. Of all these parts of my life that he has filled, in the past, he remains my hero. His life reflects in me and always will. He lives on, thru me. The memories I share are his continuance in this world, for those that knew him, and for those that did not.
As I dry the tears, keeping the memory page open, I promise to continue creating memories with my son so that in the years after I am gone, I too can actually live on, not in body, but thru my son. My Dad has shown me the importance in doing this.
How will I be remembered? Not even close to how I remember my Dad, but it is a goal.
On a side note, when it's my turn to pass on (if I have a warning), I don't know what I'll do. I have watched my Grandpa not fight, suffer and die within a few months. On the other hand, I watched my Dad fight, suffer and die within the same amount of time. It all comes down to who suffered less in a specific amount of time. I saw no difference, except the extreme feeling of pride while watching my Dad give that ole cancer a run for it's money, although it came at the greatest price, his life.
I have better, more pleasant memories of my Dad, but these are the ones weighing heavy on my mind at this very moment. Writing them out has been helpful.
I love and miss you, Dad!!
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