Life in the NoPo

Christmas Time

2009-12-02T22:58:00.003-05:00

Dressing up for Santa Photo. Didn't go so well. Oh well, Stella still looks cute!

Travelling back in Time

2009-11-09T22:50:00.003-05:00

Amazing color photos, taken in Russia..100 years ago. Not colorized...It's like travelling through a time portal to view captured moments from long ago. Don't forget to check out The Emir of Bukhara.

Here is where I found it.

Original Exposition "The Empire That Was Russia."

http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/empire/

Sick No More

2009-11-02T22:05:00.003-05:00

Poor little Stella caught a BAD cold and has been down for the count for the past week. Well, today was the first day in awhile where she seemed like her crazy lil' self. Welcome Back Girl!

Butler's Orchard, Germantown, Maryland

2009-10-25T21:57:00.004-04:00

Ahhh, the perfect Fall Day!

October!

2009-10-06T22:19:00.003-04:00

Had a nice visit with brother Tim and his girlfriend, Stephanie. Will post pics soon. Lots of busy stuff preventing me from posting. Will get back on the horse. Until then, here is a pic of Stella at Target, preparing for Winter.

We love our little girl!..

Stella's First Birthday

2009-09-27T22:11:00.002-04:00

Though it is not official until October 2, we celebrated Stella's first year today...and Aimee's Mom made it all the way from Houston..great!

Fortunate Friend

2009-09-15T22:00:00.006-04:00

Last week, I had a dream that included an old friend who I knew when I lived in NYC, prior to meeting Aimee. We had known each other in DC (before I moved to NYC, we worked at same company). We both grew up in adjoining towns in Connecticut (me until I was 14 years old), both moved to the same neighborhood in NYC, and there were other startling similarities between us, as people.

At that point in my life (NYC), I was on the skids. We're talking homeless (not cardboard homeless, but without residence), making basically no money, and living in one of the most expensive cities in the world. This friend helped me, by allowing me to sleep on his couch for eleven days, until I found a place (Aimee loves to describe the place I found). Had I not been the recipient of his help, I am not sure what I would have done. I would have done something though.

So anyway, I sent him a message, saying hello, telling him about the dream. In my correspondence, I had mentioned that I still felt indebted to him, for his friendship during a difficult time. He responded with the following:

"While I am flattered that you feel indebted to me it is not necessary. For where we were in our lives, I am fairly confident you'd have done the same for me if the roles were reversed. I think that, for where we both were in our lives, we were perfect together. Good friends, good drinking buddies, similar interests etc.. It was just a matter of good timing at {name of company we both worked for) and fate that you ended up in New York too. So again, it is the noblest form of flattery, but not necessary. I know that if I was ever in a pinch, who I could call.... and that's all I really need to know."

I listen to CSPAN every morning, while walking my dogs. I often switch the station because I am repelled by human nature. Experiences like the one I allude to above, allow me to switch the channel back, hopeful that I may hear something good.... as I cannot be deterred from believing there are good people in the world.

Uploaded Photos (more)

2009-09-14T22:47:00.003-04:00

Here, we have a letter from my Mom in 1991 to my Grandmother, Mary. Included is a pic of my brother Tim after he got his hair 'did.'

There is also a letter from Mary to the local Cardinal for the Archdiocese of Boston. Evidently, she was saddened that two priests had abruptly left her Parish.

Click Here for pics:)

And..THANKS mom for adding comments to the images. They are a great wealth of information!

More Family Photos

2009-09-10T22:36:00.005-04:00

Okay, so I have been a little off, as I was 'attacked' by a bunch of insects on Sunday. I currently have bites on 50% of my body. Blech!

Anyway, I uploaded a new set of photos. Keep in mind that once I am done, I will organize them better. Also, don't forget to click on the + sign for an image detail page to see the largest version possible.

Here is the new set.

Lastly, help me fill in the information for the images if you know it!

I am getting better

2009-08-31T23:14:00.003-04:00

Okay, night number two of scanning. Keep in mind that I have yet to organize. Ultimately, I will group by post card, pics by decade, letters, cards, etc.

Here's the latest.

Don't forget: Tip: If you are looking at one specific image and want to 'enlarge' it, click the "All Sizes" plus icon above it. You will then see a much better presentation of the image.

Mementos from my grandmother: My first set of images

2009-08-30T23:15:00.004-04:00

Quick post. I have started to scan the contents of my Grandmother's (Mary Clifford) box of memories. See this post, for more information. Due to lack of time, I haven't spent enough time (as I would have liked) to enter thorough information for the captions. If you see an image for which you can add information, please contact me.

This is just the first of many. There is so much stuff to scan! Letters, notes, announcements, greeting cards.. a lot!

Tip: If you are looking at one specific image and want to 'enlarge' it, click the "All Sizes" plus icon above it. You will then see a much better presentation of the image. Click here to see first set. I will organize it in a much better way, later.

-

Facebook 15 Books

2009-08-25T23:01:00.002-04:00

My friend Vincent posted something on Facebook titled "15 Books."

"Rules: Don't take too long to think about it. Fifteen books you've read that will always stick with you. First fifteen you can recall in no more than 15 minutes. "

So, I went ahead and did it. Figured I'd post here too.

Nathanial's Nutgmeg - Giles Milton
Finding Flow - Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
The Stand - Stephen King
Patricia Cornwall - Portrait of a Killer (about Jack The Ripper)
The Last Lion: Winston Spencer Churchill - William Manchester
The Fountainhead and Atlas Shrugged - Ayn Rand
Explaining Hitler: The Search for the Origins of His Evil - Ron Rosenbaum
How the Irish Saved Civilization - Thomas Cahill
Into the Wild - John Krackauer
The Perfect Storm - Sebastian Junger
a primate's memoir by robert sapolsky (AWESOME)
Killing Pablo - Mark Bowden
Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley - Peter Guralnick
The Westies: Inside New York's Irish Mob - TJ English
A Dog Year - John Katz
The Alchemist - Paulo Coelho

Box of Memories

2009-08-23T23:15:00.003-04:00

My grandparents, Mary and Ambrose Clifford, on the left.

This weekend, family from Boston came for a visit. First off, sorry we couldn't spend more time together! It was great to see all of you: Mary Alice, Margie, Susan and Cutie Patoot, Jillian.

Margie brought with her, what I call a box of memories. It is a box full of pictures, cards, announcements, and keepsakes from the life of my grandmother, Mary Clifford (who died at the age of 99..talk about a long life!). I volunteered to scan these documents in order to preserve them for all to see, and send them back to their rightful place: with Margie. Late this evening, Aimee and I took a quick look. After only a few minutes, I realized the magnitude of what I saw. These are not just photos or history. These items are what she kept close....what were dear to her: a graduation announcement,poems, letters, and random notes from a trip, to name a few. Here, the 'every day' becomes precious.

The only thing I could say to Aimee was the following: "This box is the most valuable thing in this house right now." Well, in addition to our own keepsakes. It is tough even to compare though, as the value of material things seems so weak in comparison. Not only did this box shed light one woman's wonderful life, I could only think about how special these items would be to many, many people. So I will scan them. I will document them. I will handle them with extreme care. Then I will return them.

I wish she could have seen our Stella. I could just imagine my grandmother picking Stella up and saying something like "ooooohh..such a good girl!"....the tone of voice of what I heard, when I was little. I still catch myself thinking about that tone of voice when I pick Stella up into my arms..the sound I make reminds me of Mary. I was also reminded today (forgot) that her middle name was "Estelle" that she actually changed herself, but choice, because that's how she wanted it to be.

Maybe there is a connection somewhere. I do know this: when Aimee and I were still dating, we went up to Boston for a visit. Mary (my grandmother) had diminished greatly, physically and mentally and did not have much more time. Aimee did not see her as the robust, larger than life woman that most knew. She must have known something though, because in her haze, as we were getting into the car, she grabbed my arm and said: "Matthew! Are you going to get her a ring?" Since Aimee was right there, I pretended not to notice. No problem for Mary though, because she said it again, louder: "Are you going to get her a ring????" She then offered one of her own, If I recall correctly. If I could rewind back to that moment, I would not have been embarrassed. I would have responded...."Of course!" Before she died, she did know, that we would marry.

So, more to come on the box of memories.

Nine Lives

2009-08-18T22:29:00.002-04:00

Of the Nine Lives, I think I have expended about five. Today was number five. To even explain the scenario would seem so unrealistic that I am at a loss. I can only apply the experience as a lesson to teach me to worry less. The things that bothered me this morning no longer do. Tony Soprano was right..each day is a gift. Don't waste them.

My Sunday With Stella

2009-08-10T22:27:00.002-04:00

Weekends are Daddy and Stella days. So Sunday, I took out the camera and recorded some of our time while Momma was out at some Yoga retreat. Stella doesn't seem to mind the camera too much. I know I said "What are you doing" about fifty times. So what. We had fun. Can't wait until Saturday!

Baby Sitting Instructions

2009-07-28T23:30:00.003-04:00

On Saturday, we went out without baby, for dinner. My Mom graciously baby-sat. I wanted to make sure she knew how to use our TV and adjust the Air Conditioning. After seeing her reaction and looking at the instructions again, maybe I got a little carried away.

It's been three years..

2009-07-27T22:49:00.004-04:00

It has been three years since our sister Julie died. I don't think we're far enough away from it for me to write about the experience and what this tragedy did to our family. I was thinking of posting the Eulogy that I wrote for our family that I read at the funeral....but I don't really want to, not right now. Aimee and I have mentioned, numerous times, that she would have made a great baby sitter. I don't mean to bring the subject to 'us'...just saying that we still talk about her often. She would though.

There are many photos of her at my parents house. In them, she has the most dazzling smile I think I have ever seen. There is one photo though, that is more candid. It is of her, my mother, and their dogs, sitting on steps. It appears the photo was taken when they weren't prepared...when she wasn't ready to unleash the smile. To me, it's the most personal. They look relaxed, upbeat, and amused by the 'let's get the dogs in the photo' pose. When I see it, I feel frustrated and touched at the same time. Next time, I hope to just appreciate it.

The New Great Thinker

2009-07-10T22:14:00.004-04:00

The last post I submitted was about my friend Mike recording an image of a meteorite in the night sky and making the Baltimore News. He's been busy!

Baltimore Sun

ABC Baltimore

York PA Newspaper, with his photo

My Friend, the local news, and the Xfiles

2009-07-07T10:26:00.003-04:00

My friend Mike was interviewed on local TV last night for an alleged meteor siting, which he caught on film. The funny thing is that my other friend Vincent was also present during the TV interview. How does a Parisian land in Northern MD on a Monday night?

I like the part how Mike contacted NORAD, NASA and other Military. X files here we come.

Click here to watch.

First Father's Day!

2009-06-22T23:14:00.006-04:00

My Aunt Mary Jane and Uncle Marty came this weekend for a visit. They represent the first official (and unofficial) visit from our Boston relatives. It was great to see them and we all had a great day.

Our Little Family, minus Darla and Ginny.

Again, with tounge.

Grandpa Arty.

Mary Jane, Marty and what a smile little lady!

Stella and Creepy Uncle Pat.

Stella, Pat, Dad, Mom, John, Marty, Rose Mary, Aimee, Matt, Mary Jane, and Drea. Kathleen was too shy.

Lil' Ham!

I like eating food with my Daddy. He's weird.

Stella and Daddy.

Stella makes farty noises

2009-06-15T22:47:00.001-04:00

A true sign of a gifted and talented child is its ability to make fart noises on leather couches at eight months of age. Witness the magic starting at second 18! We are soooo proud...

The Hermit of Chile

2009-06-08T23:25:00.004-04:00

I recently remembered a 'legend' about a hermit who lived under a bridge from when I was in Chile. I googled it, and asked about it from my Chilean friends. There is not much that exists on the Internet about this story and what does makes it seem like a tale from folklore. If you google "The Hermit of Llay Llay" you will see the word 'mito' in Spanish which means myth.

The story goes like this: Around the year 1969, a Chilean doctor was called to a town called Llay Llay. He decided to take his family with him. Imagine the drive with winding roads in high mountain altitudes that put the Rockies to shame (Andes Mountains), crossing tall bridges at breathtaking heights. Better yet, here is a translated version of this myth:

-In Montenegro lived near a doctor with his family. He was well known for his kindness and charity towards others. One day, for work, had to travel to the village of Llay-Llay. As their stay would be long, decided to bring his family, no one suspect that something fatal would happen that night. While traveling on the road, the unexpected happened, a car crossed and it is, the driver was in a state of drunkenness.

In this brutal accident killed his wife and two children, while he desperately tried to help, but unfortunately could not do anything.

Disconsolate wondered how a thousand times and was unable to save his family. Time passed and one night the doctor came out to walk, after a while came up the road. Unwittingly spent the night under a bridge, and passed the years when he lived there, while every day that passed all the truckers out there left him food.

One day they found him dead, the death of this beloved character shocked the people of Montenegro and Llay-Llay, as well as truck drivers every day shared their food with him and today he is remembered fondly.-

Basically, his family was killed on a mountain road and he was so grief-striken that he never left the place where it occurred. He chose to live under a bridge in the mountains, alone forever, and was known as "El Ermitano" or, The Hermit.

This story supposedly happened in the 60's. I heard about it as I passed by the bridge where he lived and that he would only respond to truck drivers. The camioneros (truck drivers) knew about him and would bring him food as they passed. We are talking 'the middle of nowhere' at least when I was there in 1993. It was said he never spoke to any of them. He would only take the food that they gave him.

The interesting thing is that this story is not a legend or a myth. I mention this because I saw him. I witnessed him approach a truck, wearing an overcoat and ragged clothes. His hair had grown out so long that he looked like a wild Mountain-Man Rastafarian with brilliant gray dreadlocks. He was real and he died in 1997. He had frozen to death. I don't know if the story behind The Hermit is real. But I do know that he was a real person who did live under a bridge in the mountains alone, and accepted charity from truck drivers for over 30 years. Lastly, I don't need to hear about tragic stories of accidents to make me feel a certain way...like a movie that pulls at your heartstrings. Stories are sometimes luxuriously frivolous. Life your life and pay attention to your own story...then make it happen.

Email from Aimee to Grannies (our moms)

2009-05-28T22:29:00.002-04:00

I was copied on this email message and think it is good for posterity:

Subject: Sleep training (for Stella AND Matt & Aimee)

Moms,

Tonight we embarked on a harrowing but ultimately (HOPEFULLY ) satisfying teaching program to get Stella to sleep on her own. A couple of nights before I left for TX, at my wits' end, I purchased a program/training manual from a sleep trainer.

As you all know, we've had a great deal of trouble getting Stella to sleep and have been waking up with her at least a couple of times a night. According to the trainer, we have been doing all the wrong things (duh, do wrong things, get unwanted results). First, we have been using sleep 'crutches'-feeding to sleep, rocking to sleep, sleeping in our arms. So tonight we began the program not knowing what to expect (possible crying for up to 2 hours in some cases).

We chose the 'Leave the Room' method, putting her down awake but ready for sleep after a bedtime routine. After 25 minutes of screaming, crying, flailing and face scratching, we suddenly heard nothing. After I went into her room and checked for pulse and regular breathing, we realized she was asleep! Now, we realize the night (and process for that matter) are far from over. I am fully expecting to wake up in the middle of the night again to crying but will wait at least 10 minutes before I go in to check on her. I am still reading to figure out what to do then!

So. . .I will read on and keep you posted on the process as I know you are very interested and will be participating in bedtime rituals with Stella at some point in the future. Hopefully, it will be a peaceful one for you due to our initial hard work!!

Here is the link to the trainer that I am using:
http://www.sleepsense.net/

Think of us and send happy sleepytime vibes our way!!

Aimee
--

I am on the cusp of Internet phenomena

2009-05-21T13:45:00.002-04:00

1.) See yesterday's post

2.) See this link.

I better get my Nerd Card, pronto

Why does this make me laugh

2009-05-20T18:25:00.002-04:00

Click here. It is a sales listing on amazon.com for a Wolf Tee Shirt.

On destination page, find the link for "customer reviews" nex to the Stars under title:

Three Wolf Moon T-Shirt, Available in Various Sizes

Other products by The Mountain

4.5 out of 5 stars See all reviews (292 customer reviews) | More about this product

Start reading the reviews.

Law and Order SVU

2009-05-12T21:48:00.003-04:00

This TV show has been around ten years and my parents are fans. For ten years, my Dad has referred to it as Law and Order SUV.

Pronounced Lar and Owada S-U-V.

Ten years.

Funny.

Sleepy Baby

2009-05-11T13:51:00.001-04:00

The Sleepy Girl.

Bathroom

2009-05-07T23:29:00.002-04:00

This is what happens when you go to the bathroom at my work.

The dog who liked to stand on things

2009-04-23T18:53:00.002-04:00

Darla is not content walking on the grass in the back yard. I mean, I pick up their poop, so I don't know what the big deal is. Whenever she goes outside, she jumps on anything that elevates her about the grass. She will sit and relax on a chair or in the case below, a wagon.

What a strange dog.

Dont Judge a Book

2009-04-14T23:39:00.002-04:00

By its cover.

Woo Hoo!

Texas Trip

2009-04-09T23:08:00.003-04:00

Aimee, Stella and I just got back from a too quick trip to Texas. Aimee's parents are wonderful hosts who know how to deliver superb Texas food!..and deliver again..and again...Texas food..hmmm..just may be the current title holder.

It was great to see Stella with her grandparents Go Go and Big D too. I hope at least Aimee and Stella get the chance to go back and visit soon! They just cannot be too long away from me:)

You ask about the grandparents names? Yes, I think we are in an age where grandparents now name themselves. My mother Nancy first opted for Grancy, but has since changed to "Nan." Now, you tell me what human under the age of two can say "Nan." Grancy/Nancy/Nan, you may need to change again. There is plenty of time...Stella is just learning how to eat with a spoon.

Stella and her Grandparents!

Matt and Aimee at Opening Day for the Houston Astros

Stella and Pappy the Dog

Priceless: Stella, her mother, her grandmother and her GREAT grandmother. Four generations! Oh, my Nana would have loved to have met you, little Stella.

New Job

2009-04-08T23:00:00.003-04:00

I remember when I left my last job, I wrote a post about it. I compared it to a Seinfeld episode where the best time to leave an audience is when it is most entertained (Showmanship). The post described how I was feeling at the time. Ahhh, feelings.

Well, I am leaving my current job for another one, but I don't have similar feelings. I do not feel reflective or nostalgic. During the last job move, I thought about it in terms of a life change and how it pertained to me. This time is different. It is much easier, with little contemplation. Pure and simple, it is the best decision for my family. Decisions, in general, are much easier now.

A man with ample free time has the luxury of clouding himself with self reflection. I don't have much free time now, and it suits me fine. Ten years ago, I would have peed myself in fright thinking that in the future, I would have a wife, a child, two dogs, a big mortgage, a big car payment etc. etc., on my shoulders...during the worst economic downturn in the last four generations. Now, I consider it liberating.

The only other time I have felt so liberated was when I was over 30 years old, completely alone while living in one of the most expensive cities in the world, making less than a Manager at McDonalds, with no idea about anything. I remember feeling (there's that word again) that I was not where I wanted to be. I then understood I didn't know where I should be. Finally, I figured the best option was just to be. That worked. And this is not a general recollection. I remember the exact moment and where I was standing.

I close with the video below. I choose it because I don't see myself as changed. I am still the Karate Kick guy at 2:30 or the guy in the green tee shirt. Those personalities are just hibernating for now.

There you have it...a new job and another direction. So, Aimee, Stella, Darla and Ginny..Here we go!

Watch more Daylight videos on AOL Video

Across the Universe: interesting article

2009-03-31T22:33:00.007-04:00

Treasures reveal themselves everywhere. You just need to keep your eyes open and be open to finding them.

Yesterday, while beginning my forever Metro Ride (King St. to Shady Grove, check it on Metro Map if you think I am exaggerating), I found a Smithsonian Magazine that someone discarded. The April 2009 issue contained the most interesting article I have read in years: Forensic Astronomer Solves Fine Arts Puzzles.

Astrophysicist Don Olson breaks down the barriers between science and art by analyzing literature and paintings from the past

"Olson solves puzzles in literature, history and art using the tools of astronomy: charts, almanacs, painstaking calculations and computer programs that map ancient skies. He is perhaps the leading practitioner of what he calls "forensic astronomy."

For example, he was able to pinpoint the exact date and location where Ceazar's Roman Legions landed the coast of Britain (uh, invaded actually), by referencing a combination of a description of the event in a soldier's journal and researching the alignment of the sun and moon during that same period.

I always thought that the famous painting "The Scream" was an abstract work of art with it's bright and organgey sky. This professor concluded, by researching Munch's writings, the painter recalled a night where he took a walk near a fjord and viewed a sunest as "a flaming sword of blood slashed open the vault of heaven—the atmosphere turned to blood—with glaring tongues of fire...and truly I heard a great scream."

The professor then did the following:

"In Oslo, Olson located the road featured in a sketch for the painting. Details in it—a cliff, a road with a railing and an island in a fjord—indicated to Olson that Munch must have been facing southwest when he drew it. Olson concluded that the painting's blood-red sky was no metaphor but the extraordinary aftereffects of the 1883 eruption of Mount Krakatoa in Indonesia, which sent so much gas and ash into the atmosphere that skies were darkened or colored worldwide for many months."

Interesting! The Magazine included photos of actual paintings and historical events, so the print version allowed me to review the paintings while reading along. Though the online version does not, you can Google the titles of works to get an idea of what he is talking about.

To me, this practice is a form of time travel, in a way. Man, I wish I knew physics better...or physics at all.

Read it!

Slaine in Action

2009-03-25T22:48:00.005-04:00

Wow. It is almost two years since I first mentioned my second cousin George going Hollywood.

In that post I mentioned that he was going to be in a movie, though for me, I was impressed by the fact that a family member was/is a part of House Of Pain! Well, not exactly the exact the same group, though two of the three original members are with Slaine's group, La Coka Nostra.

Last Saturday night, my brother, Rose Mary and I (Aimee had to look after Stella) actually went to a show in Baltimore. It was great! I mean, err, La Coka Nostra was great. The other two groups that also performed weren't exactly my cup of Tea..but the kids seemed to enjoy them. I will leave it at that.

Anyway, I snapped some pics.

Slaine draped in Flag. Everlast to his right.

Slaine on the mike!

I also learned some lingo the kids like to throw around these days. The next time I get into a sticky street situation, because you know that happens in North Potomac Maryland all the time, I'll be armed with the latest 'mad fresh' jargon. So Put your ones up to Slaine! Good stuff. Mad good good stuff.

Oops She did it again

2009-03-15T22:17:00.004-04:00

About six months ago, I think, Aimee sent me a random email with an odd image. She did it again, though this time we graduate to website.

http://the-light.com/mens/samson/7/samson.html

All the text of her email said was "I can't really say anything about this."

I don't think there is a need to actually say anything here. I do know it wasn't a request, because I could never grow my hair like that, nor would I. If I were to try to grow my hair, it would end up looking like Prince's do'circa 1987 or a Peruvian Soccer Player. My wife is random...and so am I.....

Stella's First Food

2009-03-09T22:30:00.004-04:00

Stella is growing up quite fast. Yesterday she had her first 'food.' Fun!

I don't know what it is, but it looks special!

I could get into this.

Wow, this works for me!

Why is it Snowing in March

2009-03-02T15:13:00.005-05:00

Today is March 2, 2009 and we got a moderately large amount of snow this morning. Spring will be that much sweeter....

Aimee and Lil' Stella

This is March?

I am all smiles today!

(why why why)

Waiting for Spring

2009-02-23T16:56:00.002-05:00

Now that Little Stella is almost five months, it's tough to keep her stimulated. She is a little pistol! So, Aimee and I were looking into the future when it is a little warmer so they can start taking walks. So, this is my modest summons for Spring to come early:}

All in all, she is doing quite well. This little lady has an opinion and is not afraid to share it. The funny thing is that when she is around a group of people, she is quiet and observant. She has them fooled but not us. As far as right this moment, Aimee is the center of Little Girl's world. Every time Aimee leaves the room, Stella follows her with her whole head and eyes. Once Aimee comes into her view, it is as if if a Magical Fairy appears and Stella's face lights up. Now, I am not sure if this is great for Aimee, but it is sweet to see. She is Momma's little girl. Remember this, Girl, for when you are 13 and Le Sullen Teen.

We need a car

2009-01-29T15:12:00.002-05:00

Do you know anyone who has a well-maintained, reliable, and safe used vehicle?

We need one!

Thoughts on Inauguration

2009-01-20T11:52:00.004-05:00

Rick Warren is a little long. I think I could do a better job.

Aretha Franklin's hat looks like a windmill.

Joe Biden is wearing a sharp-looking tie. He looks like he wants to rip apart a phone book.

Yo Yo Ma, not only has a great name, but can strum a cello darn well. I remember this song from a TV commercial..an airline I think. This song is long. I prefer Garth Brooks performance on Sunday.

Barak Obama is now the President. John Roberts messed him up a bit. He looks great though.

I wonder how many people were caught in a Porto Potty during the swearing-in. The People look cold. I am cold, where is the heat all up in here.
----------------------

(The Speech)

Obama is wearing a sharp tie. So far, he has not levitated.

I see people in crowd wearing fur. I am no PETA person, but I wouldn't mind delivering a nice firm slap to them.

Oooh, he is bitch-slapping the baddies. Good job.

He's done. Great job, B.
---------------------------------

Here's the poet.

Obama's brother in-law looks like Sulu.

I don't understand this poem.

---------------------------------------------

Joseph E. Lowry for benediction.

He looks like he gave the benediction for John Adams. He is much better than the poet.

He is much better than Rick Warren.

-----------------------------------

Bush says bye bye. Bye Bush.

Inauguration

2009-01-20T09:13:00.002-05:00

(Matt) My Mom is down there right now, among the crowds. Crazy! But, she wanted to be a part of history so there you have it. As far as I see 'being a part of history'..this is why the TV was invented.

I went to Clinton's first inauguration and along the parade route. Clinton actually gave me one of his sincere thumbs up. Clinton was so open to the public. My mom and sister Julie met him at the White House. My brother Pat has a picture of himself shaking hands with Bill. I even saw him a second time at some White House event with my family. I shook his hand. I picked my Mom up (lifted her up, over the crowds) so she could shake his hand too. Fun.

I didn't inherit the 'must be in the mix' gene though. I inherited the 'I don't like crowds, where is my couch' gene. All I need is a TV and a bathroom. Then I can experience History the way it should be experienced. Oh, and I don't consider myself a Democrat. Maybe Barak can change that. Good luck Barak! I am happy for you and this great country.

Baby makes it hard

2009-01-17T14:00:00.002-05:00

Haven't been able to update this thingy lately.

It's tough with a baby! In order to be able to look back later, I will start again.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2008-12-29T17:21:00.001-05:00

Our Family (humans only in this one)

My Alma Mater (High School)

2008-12-23T13:49:00.002-05:00

Haven't posted much lately (Stella is sick), but I found this interesting. My old high school is in the news.

Funny thing is..I know the exact camera that is used in the story below is this one.

Maryland Students Use Speed Cameras for Revenge
Students in Montgomery County, Maryland use fake license plates to send speed camera tickets to enemies.

High school students in Maryland are using speed cameras as a tool to fine innocent drivers in a game, according to the Montgomery County Sentinel newspaper. Because photo enforcement devices will automatically mail out a ticket to any registered vehicle owner based solely on a photograph of a license plate, any driver could receive a ticket if someone else creates a duplicate of his license plate and drives quickly past a speed camera. The private companies that mail out the tickets often do not bother to verify whether vehicle registration information for the accused vehicle matches the photographed vehicle.

In the UK, this is known as number plate cloning, where thieves will find the license information of a vehicle similar in appearance to the one they wish to drive. They will use that information to purchase a real license plate from a private vendor using the other vehicle's numbers. This allows the "cloned" vehicle to avoid all automated punishment systems. According to the Sentinel, two Rockville, Maryland high schools call their version of cloning the "speed camera pimping game."

A speed camera is located out in front of Wootton High School, providing a convenient location for generating the false tickets. Instead of purchasing license plates, students have ready access to laser printers that can create duplicate license plates using glossy paper using readily available fonts. For example, the state name of "Maryland" appears on plates in a font similar to Garamond Number 5 Swash Italic. Once the camera flashes, the driver can quickly pull over and remove the fake paper plate. The victim will receive a $40 ticket in the mail weeks later. According to the Sentinel, students at Richard Montgomery High School have also participated, although Montgomery County officials deny having seen any evidence of faked speed camera tickets.

Daughter in the water

2008-12-09T10:47:00.001-05:00

The Christmas Tree

2008-12-02T18:32:00.000-05:00

Ah, the Holidays..

Give Thanks

2008-11-27T00:15:00.004-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving. I am unable to express the sentiment, so the video below will do.

About a month ago, Aimee and I were taking care of Stella on a Saturday morning, watching Sundance channel. As our program ended another began. It was a documentary about an Icelandic band, traveling home to provide free concerts for locals in remote locations. As the documentary started, we weren't paying attention at all. It began with music, with a voice I thought belonged to a woman. I actually said aloud, "this music is good!" We got hooked on the first song. After agreeing to watch it, we went downstairs to the HD TV. The documentary blended in scenes from Iceland, including a lot of the local folk. With Stella asleep (before we learned she was sleep averse), we proceeded to watch the whole movie in stunned silence. It was beautiful. So, here is a song, performed by Sigur Ros, at a small community center in some tiny town. The music is soothing and shows locals of every age. As you watch (if you watch), think of the things for which you are thankful.

Email from Wife

2008-11-22T11:59:00.002-05:00

Aimee emailed me this picture today.

The only text the message contained said "not Stella," in case I was not able to distinguish this upon viewing the image.

The Hot Hand

2008-11-12T17:17:00.002-05:00

I imagine that since my parents are now grandparents, that I am reminded of my own grandparents. Recently, I remembered the story of the Hot Hand. The owner of the Hot Hand is my mother's father, Ambrose Clifford. Ambrose was around until I reached 14 years of age. I only knew my grandfather as a frail, delicate man with white wisps of hair. I can remember his voice at this moment as if he had just said something five minutes ago: it was a throaty whisper, so quiet that a young kid needed to strain to understand. This is usually how my conversations went with him when I was seven years old:

Him: You studying hahd? (with Boston Accent...so soft, I could barely hear him)

Me: Uhhhh..what?

Him: With more effort, yet less volume, a bit frustrated: You studying hhhaahhhd???

Me (even more confused): Duu...huh?

This would evolve further until his facial expression read "What the frig is wrong with this kid?"

Then, his wife Mary (my grandmother, whos voice could drown out war sirens), would get in my face and yell/say ....

"Maaathew..your Grandfathah is talking to you! He wants to know if you ah study-ing, HAAAAHD! ANSAH him!"

Me traumatized: oh..yeh-yes...

(of course I wasn't studying hard)

Anyway, Ambrose was not afraid to bust out The Hot Hand when he thought I was getting out of line. Keep in mind, I was a shy enough kid that I didn't even talk much, let alone get out of line. I guess maybe if I pleaded for some sort of food, The Hot Hand would come into play.

I would be sitting in the backseat of the car and say something like: "Can I have an ice cream?"

Answer: No.

Me: Ahhhh...why not?

Now, I did not scream, throw a tantrum, cause a ruckus or even whine (I think). I just asked a follow up question. A follow up question, I imagine, was a serious violation. Either my mother or grandmother would warn me: "You better be careful or Grandpa will get out the hot hand."

As I sat in the back of the car, I would look forward to the front seat, with my grandfather on the passenger side. On queue, I would see his ancient hand move high in the air, with fingers extended, as the Hot Hand blocked out the sun streaming through the windshield, ready to inflict horror on little seven year old boys.

I never asked the follow up question to learn its wrath. The threat alone was enough.

Okay, now I'm gonna go eat some ice cream. :)

Five weeks old

2008-11-08T21:43:00.004-05:00

Little Lady Stella is doing quite well, aside from a minor rash on her face. She is five weeks old and growing quite nicely. Even though she is too young to smile, she can communicate (or at least mimic). When I stick out my tounge, she sticks hers out right away..fun:)

What time are your parents picking you up

2008-11-06T17:23:00.003-05:00

Since Aimee and I only have one car at the moment, I have reverted to something that I haven't done since the age of 15: call my parents for a ride. At least two days a week, I travel to Alexandria Virginia by Metro (subway). Lately, I have been calling both of my parents for rides. I cannot imagine what my coworkers think when I call and say: "Hey Dad/Mom, can you pick me up from the Metro?"

Next, I think I will ask for a ride to the Mall to see if that works.

Hmmm..

The ladies in their Halloween gear

2008-10-29T22:04:00.006-04:00

Do you think we overdid it a little for Halloween?

Hey what is that. Come on people, I gotta diaper that needs changin. Chop Chop.

Why are you looking at me as if someone spray painted me for Halloween?

Did you really have to paint my nails a pumpkin color?

That's right. It says "I love my Mummy." Get it?

Even though we would like to take credit for all of the festive gear, it's really not our doing. Aimee's mom and best friend from childhood sent several costumes-all of which Stella was not completely cooperative to model for us! At least we got a couple.

As far as the dogs, we have a long history of our local Kennel taking decorative liberties after bathing our dogs. The ladies took many photos of Darla and Ginny and even sent them to their corporate office. They called me mid-day to ask if I minded if they paint the dogs' nails. Of course not. I told them to do whatever they wanted as long as nothing gets tracked around our house. So far so good:)

Lost Cat Sign/Pic

2008-10-21T13:58:00.002-04:00

Stella's First Bath

2008-10-19T22:02:00.004-04:00

The little lady behaved graciously during her first bath. What a comfortable lass.

Yep, I'm kinda comfy just about now.

Can someone dry my hair?

That was interesting. Can you get that camera out of my face please?

A Mother's Love

2008-10-15T18:30:00.002-04:00

Although I am experiencing feelings that I've never felt before, I'm not talking about me. I'm talking about my own mother. My parents have 4 children and Stella is their first grandchild. The Saturday that we came home from the hospital my mother and sister Emily flew in from Houtson and Chicago, respectively. They spent the next few days comforting and supporting us in our new world.

Today I found a sheet of paper folded in quarters. Almost every corner of that piece of paper was covered with menus for each day, grocery lists for those menus, lists of baby things (diapers, wipes, swaddles, etc, etc, etc), cleaning supplies and so on. Every task was checked off as completed. Each day my mother would wake up before 7am and begin a day of nonstop cooking, cleaning, shopping and support to a frassled new mother. My sister ran errands and spent her day working around our house. When I say I could not have gotten through the first week without them, it is no exaggeration. The simple thought that they were downstairs and available for advice, a hug or an extra arm was a comfort that I never anticipated. My mother and I have always had a very close relationship but I had no idea what she and my sister meant to me until they totally gave of themselves in order to make life easier for us.

Thank you's are almost not enough. I hope that one day I can be there for my sister, along with my mother and share in her own joy. For now, thank you is all I can say. A thousand times, thank you!! I love you both!!!

Aimee

Youtube Gifts

2008-10-09T13:47:00.007-04:00

Yesterday I had the following objective: Set up security for our home wireless environment.

Without being a technical lad..or even detail oriented, I use the power of the Internets to help me. Lacking technical ability (but also lacking fear), I often set out on 'how to' goals with the help of youtube. Youtube has a million tutorials on how to do basically anything. I will demonstrate with a test. The first thing that pops in my mind right now:

How to Skate Backwards.

(leaving here for a moment, going to youtube)

I am back. Took me two seconds. See here.

Not only did I find it in two seconds, I have a new catch phrase: "Et ezn't impassaball!" This guys accent is great. See first three seconds of above vid and you'll understand.

Back to yesterday's goal. Of course I found a 'how to' on wireless security in two seconds. While watching the tutorial, I noticed that there was country song in the background of the video. I kinda like it. It is similar to most country songs as it mentions love, alchohol, God, trucks, and a country music state like Tenessee for example (this one has two: Oklahoma and West Virginia). Of course, the words are syrupy and sometimes goofy. For example:

"Like Uncle Joe in Oklahoma needs a rain" (from the song I heard)

Anyway I researched the song. The song is "I Need You" by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. It has a lot of similes as seen above. It is hokey, not too deep, and does not always make sense. I am no music snob though. Sometimes you need a country song.

Here is the original tutorial. . I view it as unintended performance art, with the way the screen changes as the music plays.

If you want to hear a better copy (sound-wise) of the song, here you go:

The question remains. Did I set up wireless security for our house? Well, I tried. I also messed up our router so that no one in our house could access the Internet. I then spent the next three hours trying to fix this mistake. After attempting five different solutions and a lame call with Comcast (Mr. Technical Service Rep, you are lay-zee), I reached the point of frustration to seriously consider going to Best Buy to purchase a new router. Before doing so, I called the help line for the router. A nice young fella in India told me "Everything's going to be okay" (like a country music song?) and helped me fix everything.

Don't call her "Nana" or "Grandma"

2008-10-08T11:41:00.005-04:00

Here is the mother of the father of Stella, with Stella. Wouldn't it just be easier to say "Nana" or "Grandma?" Well, no. So, the search is on for a replacement name. I told my mother that the issue is not too crucial because Stella doesn't speak English....yet. She is less than a week old, so I think the issue will resolve itself ultimately.

Welcome Little Girl Stella

2008-10-05T12:36:00.014-04:00

She's here! Little Baby Stella. The past few days have been nuts, but not without underlying Joy.

Here is Stella. I will try to write more later. Three hours of sleep does not induce chattiness...or clarity..

One small thing though. Yesterday was her first day home. We brought her up the stairs and Aimee prepared to nurse her in the Baby Room. Aimee has a docking station for Ipod and plugged in for background music. Here is what was playing in the background and her first song. Not too mushy. Just sweet-sounding.

Baby Waiting

2008-09-25T17:34:00.003-04:00

Looks like Lil' Miss does not want to come out yet. Today is the due date. We are ready though!

Local High School Football

2008-09-21T23:14:00.005-04:00

On Friday Night, Aimee and I attended a local football game between last year's Maryland 4A and 3A State Champions. Quince Orchard barreled through Damascus 38-3.

It seems High School Football never changes. There are the parents, younger children not paying attention to the game, giggly girls and high school boys trying to look tough.

Plus, they have Italian Ice....

Hurrican Ike's Strange Effect on Animals

2008-09-17T17:50:00.002-04:00

Evidently, a Chicken Mutated into a Super Beast and hitched a ride to a live CNN Shoot:

Next, A bear gets lost and wanders towards the Texas Coast during the hurricane.

The Last Baby Class

2008-09-16T12:24:00.003-04:00

Last night, Aimee and I attended our last baby class. I am now certified in the art of wiping someone else's butt.

Little Stella should join us soon...

The Wrong Advice

2008-09-10T17:53:00.003-04:00

So I read this article in the Washington Post last weekend:

--Surviving the Storm. Downsizing. Buyouts. Layoffs. In some fields the job market is getting nasty. It's time to adopt a few strategies to avoid getting cut -- or bounce back quickly if you do.-- (if you need a username/pw, go to www.bugmenot.com)

I intentionally refrain from derogatory commentary about anyone and anything on this blog because

a.) It's not good form

b.) Anything you write on the Internets is basically public record. You don't want to write something with emotion only to regret it later.

c.) Judgements/criticism imply weakness. Abraham Lincoln or Winston Churchill didn't become how they are know by saying stuff like "Who he think he is! He ain't all that!"

Anyway, I was surprised to read this article. There was a lot of common sense, I mean good advice, in it but there was one published writer quoted who threw me back a bit.

.....But that's just the beginning of your labors, said Stephen Viscusi, author of the new book, "Bulletproof Your Job: 4 Simple Strategies to Ride Out the Rough Times and Come Out on Top at Work." (Collins Business, $19.95). You need to make sure you are the employee the boss most wants to keep.

In sometimes crude terms, his book spells out the particulars of effective ingratiation. "It's all about creating the illusion of working hard and getting along with your boss, and a little old-fashioned ass-kissing or brown-nosing," he said.

His four-part strategy (be visible, be easy, be useful, be ready) is equal parts mom and Machiavelli. It's not always what you want to hear."

Now, I have no problems with brown-nosing, but "creating the illusion of working hard?" Sorry Mr. Stephen Viscusi, but you are encouraging the slackers. I don't know about you, but most people can spot an "illusionist" a mile away.

I was speaking with my friend Vincent who's sister-in-law lived in Japan. Evidently, it is a source of pride to be the first one into work at like 6:00 a.m. First one in, and last to leave. She also said that these same people open up the newspaper and read it until 8:30 am. When I started working after college, there was a gentleman in my office who 'worked' like 12 hours a day but did maybe three hours of actual work. I think he spent the remaining nine hours telling people how busy he was.

Anyway, enough of the criticism. I wanna know who I think I is.

Buster The Beer Drinking Pig

2008-09-04T11:42:00.003-04:00

My brother Tim is on Facebook. I noticed that he previously had as is default profile photo, Buster The Beer Drinking Pig (or one of his descendants). Now, he has graduated to other pigs..

Who is Buster The Beer Drinking Pig you ask? In the middle of the Jungle near Tim's home, St. Croix, there is a bar named The Domino Club. The bar is famous for it's beer drinking pigs. In 1991, I went to visit Tim and saw for myself. You pull up a driveway and you actually feel like you are approaching someone's house (in the jungle) rather than a bar. The bar is tiny and there are dogs and cats wandering about.

The attraction is "Buster the Beer Drinking Pig." You order a beer, then give it to Buster. Buster takes the beer (can) from you, hoists it up, pokes a hole through it with his huge tusk and swigs it down. When I visited Buster, it was two pm in the afternoon. All I saw in the cage was about 200 empty beer cans and a one-thousand pound pig, laying down in the corner, passed out. Stone drunk. Evidently for Buster, every hour was cocktail hour.

Since then, Buster is now downing beers in heaven and his descendants are the star attraction. Since it is no longer politically correct to promote alcoholism in pigs, they are now served non-alcoholic beer (ODouls).

Here's to you Buster!

Baby Room Coming Together

2008-08-26T16:06:00.001-04:00

Lookin good!

New Favorite Song

2008-08-20T22:37:00.003-04:00

I was cleaning the kitchen this fine evening with the headphones on and surfing the radio when I hit this song. I liked it immediately. Never heard it before. Then I learned it's by Weezer. They are great. If you are a big Weezer fan and know this song and think I'm behind the times, well, you're right. It's new to me though. Don't worry, you're cool and I'm not.

I laughed here:

You wanted arts and crafts?
How's this for arts and crafts?
(guitar solo)
(That's Right!)

And chucked here:

Marryin' a bi-yatch,
Havin' Seven ki-yads,
Givin' up and growin' old,
And hopin' there's a god.

So give it a listen and learn by studying the lessons in your dreams

Ginny on a Friday

2008-08-15T14:33:00.001-04:00

A dog's life indeed...our dogs like to relax...

My Brother's TV Show

2008-08-12T23:13:00.004-04:00

My (Matt) brother has a new TV Show. It's called "Real Interrogations." It is on a new Discovery Channel called "Investigation Discovery."

It basically tells a story of murder while focusing on the Interrogation, using the real footage. Pat (brother) is also the narrator. He e-nun-cee-ates dramatically because you have to do this as a narrator. Aimee and I watched both shows (Tuesdays at 9:00 pm).

It's a good show! I think it's his best one yet. So, if you are flipping the channels on a Tuesday evening at 9 pm and want to see a good show, check it out.

Preggers Pics

2008-08-10T21:58:00.004-04:00

Preggers Pics. Taken yesterday. Aimee and I were all dudded up and stopped by for my sister's bday afterwards.

Today, we took a tour of the Maternity Ward. It's getting closer!

Baby Room Shaping Up

2008-08-06T23:13:00.003-04:00

Say goodbye to Office and Hello to...Baby Room

By the way..we have a name..

Stella!

Ernie Tee Shirt

2008-07-28T22:52:00.004-04:00

This evening, Aimee was watching one of her favorite shows, John and Kate plus eight, a TV show about a married couple with a set of twins and sextuplets. During this episode, the whole family visited Sesame Place, an amusement park in Pennsylvania. Due to the fact I am currently reading a book about a Professor's years of experience studying baboons in the wild of Africa, watching the show (for a moment) brought to mind a childhood experience involving summer camp and an Ernie Tee Shirt.

The book is tiled A Primate's Memoir and documents the author's years in Kenya studying baboons as a graduate student. The chapters alternate between describing observations of a troop of baboons and the wildly different culture in Africa than that of his life in the United States.

How does this all relate?

When I was around six years old, I went to a summer camp. On one fateful day, my mother laid out an Ernie Tee Shirt to wear. To three-year olds at the time, Ernie and Bert were bigger than The Beatles. For a six or seven year old, wearing an Ernie and Bert Tee Shirt was like break dancing at a funeral...a major faux pas. Had I sported a Star Wars or Dukes of Hazard Tee Shirt, I would have been safe. I didn't know any better. All I knew was that I needed to wear a shirt, period. Actually, had my mother not laid out any clothes, I probably would have been fine leaving the house in just socks and sneakers. I would probably have been more comfortable anyway (during that hot summer) with the exception of sitting on the Yellow School Bus seat.

Anyway, I was the lowest baboon on the totem pole that day. I was encircled by mini-baboons (I mean children) and ridiculed without mercy. I actually didn't even know I had a big target (I mean "Ernie") on my chest until I got on the school bus. This lasted the whole day. I found this puzzling, as I never actually paid attention to what other kids wore. I only noticed pretty girls and kids who smelled bad. That day taught me that that you have to pay attention what to the clothes you wear...I finally caught on at some point..I think it was when I reached 30..maybe a few years before . After that day, I bid farewell to my Ernie Tee Shirt. Good-bye, old friend. We had a good Go of it, you and me. No disrespect to you, my brothah. It's just the times, man. You dig? I'll keep rockin if you keep rockin. Good luck, Broseph.

Baby Lil'

2008-07-24T23:25:00.004-04:00

Baby Lil' is our little girl's Rap Name. Simple. Descriptive. Telling.

Aimee's Rap Name: Momma Lil'.

We have two dogs, so why not give them Rap Names as well:

Ginny: 4Eva Baby. Because she'll always be our baby. She'll never grow up and go to college or Beauty School or whatever.

Darla: Lil' D. Just sounds good.

Me? Em Ro'. Same configuration as J Lo. Don't be fooled by the rocks I don't got. Used to have a little..now I have a little..so on and so forth..

EMAIL ADJUSTMENTS

2008-07-23T19:01:00.007-04:00

If you happen to have an address for me in ANY of your contact lists with my email address minus the 'S', REMOVE THAT ADDRESS. It is going to the incorrect person who does not appreciate receiving my emails.

While I do not misspell my own email address, there are others who do and I'm not getting your emails.

Thanks!

Aimee

Dog Days of Summer

2008-07-20T22:46:00.006-04:00

Not much happening, but the following:

- In August, Aimee's friends Julie and Sandy are throwing a baby shower with my Mom. Aimee's Mom is coming in from Texas. We are looking forward to it.

- We think we have decided on a name for our little toots. Naming dogs is easier.

- We saw "Mama Mia" yesterday. Hmm. Not bad...but not great.

- It's too hot outside.

- Since I haven't had time to buy razors, I have a beard. I am thinking of shaving it down to a stache.

- Our friend Vincent stayed with us this past week. He accompanied me on my morning and evening dog walks. I think that deep down, he may just like dogs.

- Lately, I've been reading articles related to the economy.

- I hate going to the grocery store, but have been going a lot lately. Well, not a lot, but for me it is. Aimee is pregs so she gets special treatment. Don't get used to it.

- Lately, I've been looking up cars on the Internet. Good gas mileage is favorable, but not when safetey is an issue.

- I got a hair cut today. The lady who cut it accussed me of self cuttage because it was all kinds of lengths and the back was growing into a mullet. I confessed immediately. I haven't had the time to get it cut. I gave her a good tip. Yes, I sometimes cut my own hair.

- I appreciate air conditioning.

Aimee entertains herself

2008-07-13T23:19:00.008-04:00

With the impending arrival of a new family member, we are ever so slowly getting our house in order. On Saturday, we finished our guest room. As a team, Aimee and I installed a new set of blinds. Aimee chose special "block out the sun" blinds to prevent the morning light from awakening a sleeper too early. We both felt very pleased with our efforts: no clutter, new bedding, new mattress pad, new fixtures and the new blinds. Visually, the room is uncluttered and modestly decorated. It's nice. As we walked out of the finished room, I did not know that Aimee was not yet finished.

Later in the day, I took a shower in order to get ready for a dinner in Bethesda with our friend (and my colleague) Vincent, who is currently in town from Paris. He was staying with us for the evening, and his visit gave us more of a reason to finish the room. As I left the bathroom, I noticed Aimee in the hall, standing lopsided, like a drunken homeless man. She stood this way because she was trying to control her laughter. She had a smirk on her face. Did you see the guest room? Go take a look! I added a picture (trying to act non chalant, yet as transparent as glass).

I walked over to the guest bedroom, and took a look. Nothing seemed out of place: a bed, a night stand, a painting on the wall. Then, I looked at the night stand. On the night stand and next to a candle, sat a framed picture. Just one picture in the entire room. The framed photo was a picture of me ..like a head shot. As I shook my head, I envisioned Vincent setting down his bags, taking a look around the room and noticing that the only framed photo in the room was a picture of me smiling.

Aimee walked around the hall for a good minute and giggled while trying to keep herself upright. It's clear that it is much more difficult for a very pregnant woman to remain standing on two feet while laughing. I wasn't sure if I was more amused by the picture or by Aimee's sheer delight in her little project. This wasn't a quick job. She had to think about it, find an appropriate photo, and place it in a nice frame with a goal of completing her task before I walked out of the bathroom.

When Vincent walked in the room, he saw the humor as well. Then he immediately picked up the frame and turned it face down on the end table.

Aimee's Love Notes

2008-07-06T23:51:00.006-04:00

Evidently, Aimee has something against coffee grinds in the sink. Nice penmanship!

Aimee also prefers her toothpaste tube to be capped 24 hours a day. Her message is simple: "Toothpaste"

Aimee thought these attached twin cherries looked like a butt, so she took a picture.

Finally, a picture that demonstrates the comfort level of Darla.

Talk about a "Baby Bump"

2008-06-30T23:35:00.003-04:00

Lookee here. Someone is growing.

Growing..and kicking! The little bugger kicks pretty much all the time. Not only does she kick, but she responds to voices. I put my hand on Aimee's tummy and say.."Kick!" The little growing person kicks on queue..with force..like Pele.

Are we ready? Of course not. Looking forward to the craziness? Absolutely.

My Dad's Baseball Hats in South America

2008-06-24T08:47:00.007-04:00

Well, my brother Tim has begun to carry out his quest described here.

He left for South America with a bunch of my Dad's baseball caps. Now, he has started to give them away as gifts to people he meets along the way. The rule is for each hat he gives away, he takes a picture. Well, here we go!

A picture of a house to give some perspective.

A new UConn Fan. Go Huskies.

I think that is a Holy Cross hat. Not sure.

University of Virginia Cavaliers? Don't even get me started.

As far as this 'inter-cultural sharing of outer wear', Aimee and I experience it in our own front yard. In our little Cul Du Sac, there are quite a few Korean families. These are families are new to the United States and rent in our little hood of townhomes.

Yesterday evening, I was walking the dogs (like I always do) and came up on a Korean neighbor. He was a middle aged man in flip-flops, black socks, and a Tee Shirt that sported a Green Clover which read: "Kiss Me I'm Irish." No joke. If I had a camera on me, I would have asked to take his picture...Priceless! I am also not joking about taking pictures of neighbors. Just ask Aimee.

Progress with a web site

2008-06-18T17:49:00.001-04:00

So, I (Matt) am working on a web site. It is hard to describe because it is not yet viewable on the Internet. Well, now it has one page:

http://www.politics.com/

Small steps!

Tim Russert reminds me of someone else

2008-06-16T19:36:00.003-04:00

If you have seen any form of media recently, you know that Tim Russert died abruptly of a heart attack. When most public figures die, I must admit that I really don't get broken up about it. I don't feel any personal connection in these instances. With Tim Russert, however, I felt like like I was losing someone close to me. It's not as much sad as it is a testament to this man. He has plenty of media people talking about how he was so significant in peoples' lives so I will leave it to them, The Experts.

As far as the "someone else," I will back up a bit. I was watching the NBC Nightly News tonight with a segment on Mr. Russert. Yes, it was sad, but there was something else. It felt familiar. The way I felt watching this segment reminded me of another public figure in the DC area who wasn't as well known as Tim Russert, but he had the same ability to relate to people: Glen Brenner, a local TV News Sports Anchor Man...the funniest TV News Reporter I ever did see.

When my family moved to the DC area, Glen Brenner became the area's unofficial ambassador. I would seldom miss his reports, because anything could happen during them. He would make fun of his co-anchors or go off on tangents. He would make me laugh. Glen Brenner made watching the News a True Event.

This describes him fairly well:

"The infectious zeal for life that Brenner had could not help but make all those around him more fun. His chemistry with his channel 9 colleagues, especially Gordon Peterson (who is still on local TV), was magical. He was irreverent without being snarky (something ESPN could learn from) and a joy to watch."

Unfortunately, he died of brain tumor. He had been off the air for months following a “vascular event” in his brain that occurred as he finished the 1991 Marine Corps Marathon. He was only 44 years old.

I am sure that if he hadn't died so young, you would know his name too. Just like Tim Russert, he could relate to people. It shows that if you extend yourself a little, you won't be forgotten. I haven't forgotten him.

Here he is...the Funny Man...

Making fun of a co-anchor's Asian Style Dress:

Making fun of Gordon Peterson:

Laughing at a Bull Rider who gets stomped in The Pills.

Brother Tim in South America

2008-06-11T17:24:00.004-04:00

My Brother Tim (not Brother Tim like a monk, but my brother) is in South America..for eight months. He is currently learning Spanish and traveling around Ecuador. He'll visit numerous countries along the way, including my second homeland, Chile.

looks like a valley.

I see this pose in cheesy Prom Photos. I call it "The Thinker."

He is a long way from Maryland..and his home, The Virgin Islands.

There he is again..The Thinker! This time, looking toward the heavens for dramatic effect.

Lucky Guy, traveling the globe and experiencing all kinds of new things! Good for you Tim!

Other ideas for photo poses:

The Hungry Man: http://images.inmagine.com/img/ingram/inggl/1525r80927.jpg
The Graduate: http://www.photoimages.com/portraits/hendlge.jpg
The Happy Distraction: http://bleedingcheese.com/images/family%20portrait%20002.jpg
The White Family on the floor: http://www.bracedoctor.com/Images/Portrait_family_sm.jpg

Oops, Tim has a buddy! http://www.rstolley.com/ReflectivePose.jpg
Maybe it's a secret society: http://farm1.static.flickr.com/157/402682039_4943f70112.jpg?v=0

Ireland 1997: The Curse of Rob

2008-06-05T22:23:00.010-04:00

Over ten years ago, I traveled to Ireland with my brother Pat and my childhood friend, Rob. We spent six days, driving around the country, with the primary goal of seeing as many "touristy" places as possible less than a week. We saw a lot: A literary bar crawl in Dublin, a St. Patrick's Day parade in Galway, and a tour of the Cliffs of Moher. The most noteworthy experience relates not to the tourist attractions, but an unfortunate illness which befell my friend Rob and its effect (ie, doodie) on the unlucky town of Ennis.

The story begins with Rob's affinity for Guinness beer. The moment we set foot in the Dublin airport, Rob and I celebrated our arrival by ordering a Guinness. If you are familiar with Guiness, you know it is more like a milkshake than a beer. For this reason, it is very difficult for me to consume one quickly, let alone a second. My friend Rob, on the other hand, could put one down in about two seconds. His ability didn't diminish with a second one..or a third..or a seventh. My brother and I marveled at his peculiarity..or dark gift. Just like any dark gift though, this one had its downside.

After leaving Dublin, we traveled to Galway via rental car. Galway, Ireland, is a sea town on the West Coast, known for the famed Irish Fisherman's sweater. I know it as the place where they serve dirty beer. After walking around Galway on a March afternoon, my brother and I found Rob at a mangy old bar. An empty glass of Guinness sat in front of him. With his back facing us, he chatted with an elderly Irish Gent who looked to be about 107 years old (and who seemed to be sitting in that same chair for around 102 of those years). It seemed that Rob had found a kindred spirit. Their faces were close to each other as they appeared in deep conversation. Maybe they spoke of the old country and times long since passed as the ancient one bestowed his knowledge on young Rob. If so, the old man's advice didn't include a warning to not drink Guinness beer from keg lines that hadn't been cleaned since Darby O'Gill was the same size as The Little People.

The day we left Galway was the day Rob became ill with stomach problems. We could not travel more than an hour without Rob having to stop to visit the facility. When he wasn't at a rest stop, Rob could be seen slumped over in the back seat, eyes closed, in a cold sweat. The illness made poor Rob extremely lethargic. Rob was always two steps behind us, unless he had to go to the bathroom. After each each rest stop visit, he'd lumber into the backseat of the car and fall asleep. If I had been more aware, I would have known that Rob was leaving a path of destruction in our wake. I wouldn't be surprised if the folks in these small villages had to sleep outside for a couple of days, just like other disaster victims who lack faith in the soundness of recently affected structures.

Finally, we arrived in an Irish town named Ennis and stopped at a Bed and Breakfast. At least in 1997, the idea of a B&B basically meant that anyone with extra rooms in their home could hang a shingle outside and call it charming. What this meant for us is that we were basically staying in someone's house. This house, I mean B&B, had one bathroom. In addition to our presence, the 'staff' included a mean-looking Maintenance Man, the owner, who was the spitting image of my deceased grandmother, and a mischievous gnome.

We never saw the gnome. He was like a ghost in a horror movie whom you never can get a good look at..only shadows and glimpses. We knew about the gnome, because each time one of us would walk downstairs (where they lived) to take a shower, we'd see a little shadow followed by a whoosh. Then the bathroom door would slam shut, followed by the sound of the lock turning. Maybe twenty minutes later, we'd hear the lock turn again and the sound of the bathroom door slamming and another whooosh, indicating the gnome's departure from the bathroom and back to his room. I guess he wanted us to know our place in the pecking order. Maybe he enjoyed inflicting frustration on unknowing travelers. Either way, he would pay dearly.

The morning we left the Ennis B&B was 'D Day.' As we began to pack our things and get on the road, Rob excused himself to visit the bathroom. This time, he beat the gnome. About ten minutes later he walked back upstairs. He looked a bit concerned but we didn't take note. For the past two days, Rob had moved sooo slowly. We were used to stopping while walking so he could catch up. On this morning, Rob moved like a seasoned Delta Force Commando with a mission to pack a suitcase and leave a building within 15 seconds. Without giving us time to even think, we heard Rob say "Guys, you look like you'll need some time to get ready. I'm gonna hang out outside. I'll see you in the car." Before we could respond, he was gone. Out of site. Like the gnome.

My brother and I looked at each other like "What the heck just happened? What's his problem?" Keep in mind we were still waking up and not yet fully conscious. We proceeded to pack our bags. Then, ever so slowly, a MERCILESS ODOR quickly wafted into the room. We looked at each other again. This time, our expressions expressed panic. We've been set up by ROB. Rob had known what happened in that bathroom and only knew one Law of Impending Disaster: Every man for himself. Run. Flee. Save yourself, Man. Get out of there.

As my brother and I stood in fear and bewilderment (and disgust), we heard the whooosh of the gnome. The gnome was racing towards the bathroom. The next few moments went as followed:

9:30 am and 19 seconds: whooosh
9:30 am and 22 seconds: slam! (door to bathroom)
9:30 am and 25 seconds: sound of the lock turning.

Count off slowly.....One, Two, Three.....

9:30 am and 29 seconds: sound of the lock frantically turning the other way...Slam!.....Whoooosh!

The gnome had just walked into a cocoon of horror and got out of that bathroom as fast as he could. Though we didn't have the seemingly miraculous, cat-like reflexes of a reborn Rob, we knew we must get out of the building as quickly and silently as possible to avoid detection. Maybe they'd blame it on the gnome. My brother Pat went first and I followed behind. With our bags in hand, we exited the room, and proceeded to walk down the stairs.

It was early still, so we thought perhaps we could leave unnoticed. We still had the audacity of hope. As we walked down the stairs, we could see the corner that led to the front door, the door to freedom. Our chances improved with each step down. The morning sun peered through the windows of the first floor. But this is no After School Special and there's no happy ending. Every tale of woe has its victim and in this case it was my brother Pat.

As we reached the bottom of the stairs, the door to the bathroom was right in front of us. Suddenly, a second door to the right, furiously swung open. It was the angry-looking maintenance man, looking especially sour. Since Pat was in front of me, he bared the full fury of the maintenance man. Both of his hands were occupied. In case Pat needed help understanding the situation, the maintenance man held his hands up in dramatic fashion. In one, he held a match box and the other...a nice, long match. His face contorted into a frightening configuration and he opened his mouth, as if to speak. Only he didn't. He was an animal now.

GRRRRRRR!!!!!!

He actually growled at my brother.

We didn't stick around to initiate diplomatic dialogue. The maintenance man reached his goal: to identify and shame the violator. In this case, the true violator was sitting in the car..probably checking out his hair in the rear view mirror or simply enjoying the Irish morning sun.

Epilogue: To this day, all three of us still recall the incident. Rob particularly enjoys the story. He has made me retell it numerous times, like the day after his wedding, in front of his extended family, including numerous 80-year old ladies. No matter who or how many people there are in the room at the time, Rob is always the one who laughs the loudest.

Laugh for Tuesday

2008-06-03T11:56:00.001-04:00

The part where I started laughing began with the statue and its need little trick.

Leon Harris Rogers

2008-05-29T23:35:00.004-04:00

So, Aimee and I have been going back and forth with names for our little girl, coming soon. She'll say something like "What about XXXXX?" I'll say no, that reminds me of Tim Conway.

I'll say "What about XXXX?" She will respond that no, that name reminds her of the Borden Dairy Products Cow.

So tonight, during a TV News break (middle of "Lost"), she looks at the Anchor for WJLA DC Channel Seven, and says "What about Leon Harris?" (Leon is an Excellent News Anchor) Keep in mind, this is a girl we are talking about. I say "Leon Harris Rogers?" That sounds great.

So, until we come up with a real name, we'll say her name will be "Leon Harris Rogers."

Movie Review

2008-05-26T09:55:00.004-04:00

Aimee and I saw the latest Indiana Jones movie this past weekend. I was unimpressed. Yes, Harrison Ford can still pull it off, but I didn't enjoy it. Since I would prefer not to dissect the movie to support negativity, I have a better idea. Why not choose a random movie that I DID enjoy and recommend it. That way, someone may benefit.

I can't pick a well-known movie, because you'll say to yourself "Yeh, I saw it. Big Whoop." What about a movie that you wouldn't imagine you'd enjoy? How about if the protagonist doesn't have a real job and earns money in an unsavory way? What if he's a Ghetto-dwelling, ne'er-do-well, straight up Card Carrying P-I-M-P pimp? What if he's a pimp AND a drug dealer?

The movie in question is called "Hustle & Flow." The story concerns subjects that I really don't care about nor think it is entertaining to glorify (this movie does not): pimps, prostitutes, drugs, hip-hop music, dirty houses, and baby mama drama. Though this is true, I found myself rooting for the protagonist and caring about his outcome. So, if you want to chance a movie you wouldn't normally watch, choose this one. If you don't like it, recommend a movie you did like to someone who may not be inclined to see it.

Laughing at the TV

2008-05-20T17:07:00.018-04:00

This morning The Today Show was on television. A famous young lady singer named "Fergie" was performing. During the performance, both Aimee and I began to laugh unusually hard at the same time.

The Today Show is not necessarily a "family program", though doesn't tend to get extremely out of hand. During Fergie's song this morning, I believe the situation reached DEFCON five. It was the perfect storm, consisting of the following conditions: 1.) the time of day(8:30 am on a Tuesday) 2.) painted on leather pants 3.) over-the-top provocative dancing and 4.) and seven year old children in the FRONT row.

The moment when we started laughing was when she began gyrating on stage, in front of children, like a Giant Ant Eater in Heat.

Her risque seizures seemed without end. After giving lap dances to third graders, she ran back towards the band and began doing some type of newfangled power gymnast flippy whirls WHILE singing.

But no, she was not finished. Her final salacious gesture was to shake her butt, leather pants and all, for what seemed like 27 minutes. She shook it in such an out of contol manner, that it seemed like someone laced her undies with Ben Gay ointment that started to kick in right at that moment.

I have one word that describes the moment: In-A-Pro-Priate! I guess it is not her fault.

If you do not believe this story. Click on the following link and access the second video down the page. Just make sure there are no children nearby. I wont be responsible. I warned you.

http://popsugar.com/1645578

Baseball Caps across the Americas

2008-05-18T22:50:00.003-04:00

My Dad has a baseball hat collection that numbers in the hundreds. For as long as I can remember, each closet in my parents house is stuffed with hats. You'll find a hat for every trip he's taken and about five variations for each sports team he likes. Every ten years or so, he'll clean out his collection. It doesn't matter though. It seems like the next week, there are 300 new hats stuffed in each closet. With our family all together today (a rarity), he asked my brother Tim to bring down the collection. Various family member sifted through the collection, selecting which ones to take. The remainder of the collection is destined for placement on heads in faraway South American places.

On Tuesday, my brother Tim begins another epic journey. He's traveled all around South East Asia, India, Australia, and Europe. This time, he travels to South America. He'll depart on Tuesday for the first leg of his journey: Ecuador. He will travel to multiple countries, learning Spanish, until December. Along with him, he'll bring my father's hats. He intends to give the hats to people he meets along the way, as gifts. When I heard this, I thought it was a great idea and added another. I told Tim that he needs to document this. Each time he presents a hat as a gift, he must take a picture. He seemed to think it was a good idea, so hopefully he will follow through on it. If he does, I'll do my best to post them here. Imagine if you are traveling to the deepest, darkest regions of the Amazon and meet a tribal elder, only to see him festooned with a Johns Hopkins Lacrosse Final Four Champions 2002 baseball cap. We shall see.

We learned the sex ...

2008-05-14T12:43:00.004-04:00

of our future little family member, due to meet the world in mid-September.

A girl!

Interesting?

2008-05-12T09:07:00.001-04:00

You be the judge:

He also gives career advice:

Boy or Girl?

2008-05-07T23:04:00.003-04:00

In less than a week, we should find out if we are having a boy or a girl. As far as a preference, I think Aimee prefers a girl, though she is not counting on it. As for me, I really do not care...as long as the kid is not dumb and will be ready to start learning about housework at an early age (four? five?).

What are Gators?

2008-04-30T23:21:00.003-04:00

I have no idea what "gators" are or why they attract dogs.

This guy will slap you across the face with a $100 bill.

"Okay..Here..it goes."

For Earth Day: A simple question in Fifth Grade Science

2008-04-21T23:52:00.007-04:00

I (Matt) was listening to a story on the radio about an organization called Teach America. This organization recruits the highest achieving college graduates to teach in the most "in need" or lowest-performing school districts throughout the country. Think of it as a Peace Corps for the United States. The organization's success is a result of psychology. In order to recruit candidates, the requirements are extremely rigid. By making it extremely difficult to be accepted into the program, it establishes a need on behalf of Ivy League graduates:

"At Yale, no fewer than 12 percent of the graduating seniors--nearly 1 out of every 8--applied..... Altogether, over 17,000 seniors applied for 2,100 openings."

So, why do I write about this organization? I mention it because the radio piece reminded me of a funny (now it is) experience I had while in elementary school. I have no idea why it popped in my head today but it did. It was the first day of school during my fifth grade Science Class. The teacher, Mr. Doherty, sought to establish rapport with the students. After learning student names, he introduced fifth grade Science by asking questions. His first question seemed quite simple. Well, at least to me:

Can anybody tell me what the Earth is made of?

In a millisecond, my mind darted to my own 10-year old boy resume. I had much experience with the Earth. I dug it. No really, I mean I actually dug holes in the ground all the time. I dug them in the woods, next to streams, in the garden...everywhere. For whatever reason, this kid job gave me pleasure. After I dug a hole, I would always fill it back up again. Filling up a hole you just dug was just part of the kid handbook..instinctual. It's like a dog covering up a freshly made turd.

I was the first in the class to raise a hand. Not the smart kid or the smart-assed kid, but me.

Yes, Mr. Rogers, what is the Earth made of?

I felt elated with my hand up. It was a sign of victory. The benevolent gesture of a fatherly dictator or the risen hand on a statue of a venerated military General from long ago.

Mr. Rogers, what is the Earth made of????

I almost yelled out the answer:

DIRT! IT'S MADE of DIRT!

During the next few moments, time slowed down. The class roared with deafening laughter. It was like a movie where they play human voices in slow motion which lowers them ten octaves and each utterance is exponentially longer. I was puzzled by this. Even through the laughter I could not understand how or why this would seem like a dumb answer. I knew dirt. I knew the Earth.

Mr. Doherty obviously saw the confusion in my face and made an attempt to relieve me by saying that yes, dirt is part of what makes the earth, in addition to elements or magma or some other ridiculousness. Though stunned, some part of me refused to concede. I think this was the last time I was ever the first kid in class to raise a hand.

As I now look at the world through the eyes of an adult, things are much more simple. This is so because the majority of what people say is bulls**t. It's like a different language where most words mean nothing. Since there is so much of this, a truthful response is rare. I don't say this with cynicism or bitterness or frustration. In fact, I am now pleased with my fifth grade self. Why? Because the Earth is made of glorious DIRT.

Australians

2008-04-17T16:54:00.003-04:00

Zany Australians!

I laughed at this.

I logged into hotmail today

2008-04-16T16:47:00.004-04:00

And I saw something familiar with the landing page, after you type in your user name and password.

Or is it a hybrid of James Garner and a Back Street Boy?

Sports

2008-04-08T23:22:00.010-04:00

When I (Matt) was younger, I played Sports. Baseball, Lacrosse, Hockey, and Football. The Sport I was best at was Hockey though I never had intentions of hoisting up a Stanley Cup. I favored Hockey because when you were not practicing or playing a game, there were never expectations to be serious unless it was five minutes before the game began or you were in a timeout. Essentially, you could spend your off time making fun of your teammates.

On a road trip for my College Hockey Team, I drove down to Blacksburg Virginia with the Team Captain. I had to pee REAL bad while we rolled down the highway. The Captain refused to stop, handed me a bottle, and told me I would have to do my business in mid-drive. After I realized there would be no way that he'd stop, I reluctantly took the bottle, put my knees on the passenger seat (facing the wrong way), propped myself up so high in the car that my head was bent under the car ceiling, and began to try to..relax..to do my business. I quickly understood why this guy refused to stop at a highway rest stop. Every time I began, he would slow down the car so it was parallel to the closest car in the next lane. Imagine you are driving down the highway, a car pulls up next to you, and you see a kid with an embarrassed expression, propped up in the car, facing the wrong way, trying to pee in a bottle. This went on for about ten minutes. Though I was frustrated and embarrassed, I could not help but laugh at his creativity. This was Hockey.

Football, on the other hand, was serious. Before a high school football game, you'd have to arrive at least two hours before it began. Would you spend most of this time discussing plays? No. You had to sit in a corner and think about the game. For an hour and a half at least you would have sit in complete silence. While the most intense players would sit in a corner staring at the wall, I would try to stare at the wall. Instead of visualizing the big block or touchdown, I visualized--a wall. After about 30 seconds I would become bored. About a minute later, I would become very bored. I then began to fill this time by being a goof ball. I would talk like an old lady or, with a straight face, begin to put on my football pants as if they were a football jersey. Needless to say, I wasn't the Captain of the Football team, nor the most popular.

The reason I recall sports today is because of the video below, which my brother sent me. If you care to watch this high school football coach, you'll see the coach is half crazy. The video gets nuttier as it progresses. It speaks for itself. I don't believe it is bad or good. It is what it is. I could describe my high school football coach, but I don't really like to be negative (at least here). He was probably a good coach. The problem was that I just didn't belong in football.

So, do I have a point? Yes. I could never take Sport too seriously because it was not real. Did I want to win? Did I try to win? Of course, but there was always something in the back of my mind that pestered me..it's a game. A diversion. Life, on the other hand, is different. Life is serious (as opposed to football), especially when you get older. I can spend two hours in serious thought, staring at the wall, thinking about mundane and unexciting tasks. I spend about 99% of my day being serious. With this understanding, I do not hesitate spending the remaining one percent doing things like answering telemarketing calls in ridiculous voices or sing loudly in the middle of a grocery store with whatever song is blaring on the speakers at the time. I don't believe this to be good or bad. Like an angry football coach, it is what it is.

Here's the crazy coach.

Good Things

2008-04-07T23:05:00.003-04:00

I've been arguing with Aimee on how to share good news. Neither of us is the type of person who likes to share something good unless it is with someone who we feel will sincerely appreciate it. We don't want to be that person who rambles on while not noticing the news recipient's eyes to glaze over. It happens. You know what I mean.

So anyway, Aimee is preggers. Knocked up. With child. As far as our ongoing argument, I told Aimee that if we don't announce it soon, the kid's gonna be taking his/her driving test before anyone learns she's pregnant. So, there you have it. More to come.

On a light note, I've been bothering Aimee recently, by yelling out "Wwwwwizard!" as seen in the TV commercial below. She always tells me to stop, but at least I enjoy it. I think our dogs enjoy it too.

Okay, yes. We're in Miami

2008-04-04T12:16:00.002-04:00

South Beach to be exact. Alas, not on vacation. We've been working the whole week. I wish it were a vacation:)

Where am I

2008-04-02T13:35:00.002-04:00

Can you tell by this picture?

Secret Location 1st clue

2008-04-01T19:20:00.002-04:00

Here's the first clue. Established: we know there's vegetation.

Secret Location

2008-04-01T12:12:00.002-04:00

I (Matt) am in a secret location. I will post images for you to guess (not people who know where I am). First correct gets a pat on the back. More to come later today.