A Year of Yes and No

Oh my, what a year. It has been customary for me to have a year's end write-up for some time. And even though I haven't written anything here since July, I figured this would be a great place for new beginnings.

2010 was marked by yes and no. There were no gray areas or questions that were left unanswered. The first and most important yes or no I received was a yes from The One. I didfulfill my resolution to propose to her, and I didn't even drag it out for as long as she feared. We have been planning her illustrious dream wedding ever since. After that I was stricken with a couple of nos. I did not make the Tour I was pining for. Nor did I make the promotion that I worked for. Disappointing for sure, but I decided that both dreams will just have to wait until I can try again.

In August a beautiful thing happened; I was given my final yes or no of the year and it was a resounding yes. I was given the opportunity to change career paths and boy oh boy did I jump at that. Not because I dislike my current job or career, because I have always wanted this type of career. I will be leaving for school in January to become a TV and Radio Broadcaster! Just recently some of our questions were answered when we were told where and when we will be going after my school. My first job as a broadcaster will be in Germany! A dream location for both The One and I. And an excellent honeymoon area as we will be leaving shortly after getting married.

Yes, 2010 was a good year. And the future will only get better tomorrow.

Last year I set some modest goals.

My goals for 2010:

1. Stay alive. It might seem like a silly goal to have, until you are dead and then you should have thought of it. I will tie-in the live well goal for this one as well. I intend on doing both.

You will be surprised to hear that I did in fact make it here alive. I didn't go unscathed unfortunately, as I did break the first bone ever in my body: the last knuckle in my pinky finger.

2. No matter what happens regarding the tour, keep moving forward. There are a lot of opportunities out there for me and still have a lot to offer. It is time I stop wavering and just start walking.

As I have detailed before, I did not make The Tour. I did receive feedback and I will continue working myself to be better prepared for the next time I audition. With the wedding and new career I did not try again this year and next year is looking iffy. I will again, in time, try again. I certainly did not waver when it came to changing career. From the moment the opportunity presented itself I jumped in with both feet.

3. Smile through everything. There is no telling what will happen with anything this year, regardless of what it brings I will chose to be happy.

I certainly do not have to work so hard to smile. Life is good.

4. Work on myself personally. While I like to joke that I am perfect, I still hold some (very few) character flaws. I need to work on those.

No major overhaul personally. Thankfully I learned from the mistakes I made this year.

5. Propose to The One. I know, you know, she knows I love her. It will happen in 2010.

I did in only a way that I could.

My goals for 2011:

1. Stay alive. A staple first in all of my goals. At this point it should be understood, but I may be a little superstitious about keeping it here. I don't want to leave it off and that year be THE year.

2. Make it through broadcasting school. I will not fail.

3. Get married to The One. We have a beautiful wedding planned.

4. Make the most of our time in Germany. There is plenty to do, and I do not want to miss out.

5. Make it back for my sister's wedding. I am going to do everything in my power to make it back.

My life continues to look up and I am thankful for that!

May your new year be your best yet,

Skate

This Day Next Year

On October 10th, 2008, I took a beautiful young woman that I barely knew to a Michael Buble concert two hours away. I felt time pressed and did not go to the door to meet her, instead I sent a text. To be fair I did tell her that we needed to get moving as soon as possible and to be outside waiting for me. During the drive up, we refused to let there be an awkward moment of silence by nervously talking and asking questions. In that two hour span we went from hardly knowing each other to having a good idea of who we were spending time with.

We arrived to the concert with a moment or two to spare. We take our seats and courteously try not to invade each others space. As the pre-show comedian tried to warm us up we gave out half laughs and avoided guffawing in front of each other. This cutesy nervousness continued when Mr. Buble hit the stage. We would stand, and clap, sometimes let out a cheer. Mostly we would watch what the other one did so we would not embarrass ourselves. As the crowd danced around us, we might have swayed our hips. As couples held each other during love songs, we excused ourselves when we accidentally bumped our hands, shoulders or feet. At the end of an amazing show, we were both pleased. On the way back to the car the October cold breeze chilled her. I was without a jacket, because I thought it was warm enough, so I extended my arm across her shoulders to keep her warm.

We were in such a rush to get to the concert we did not eat. At eleven at night our choices were limited and could only manage a Chili's. We continued to get to know each other while we barely touched our food. Our nerves were getting the better of us and showed as we continued chattering. Our nerves were focused on the next part of the night: the overnight stay in a single bed hotel room.

In my hurry to pick her up I did not think to pack sleepwear. I asked her if that would be a problem if I were just in my boxers and shirt. Thankfully it was not. When we slid under the covers we placed a throw pillow in between us to make sure the boundaries were known. By the morning the pillow was gone. That night we did nothing more than talk and sleep. In the morning, it was talking and holding one another.

The drive back was only slightly quieter than the rest of trip. I think we were beginning to feel comfortable. I dropped her off; this time getting out of the car. As we said our goodbyes, I leaned in for a kiss but masked it with a hug for safety. She immediately went for the hug and did not even offer a cheek for the kiss. This would be something we would laugh about over and over again.

On June 22nd, 2010, I took the same woman to another Buble concert. This time as my fiancee. This time without the cutesy nervousness. A planned mini-vacation. We took two days off. Drove out to where the concert was being held and traveled the town. Checked into the single bed hotel, this time without need for throw pillows. We ate dinner beforehand; we chose a Japanese grill as part of a tradition we started on our first year anniversary. We went to another amazing concert by Buble. We even found the song we want to have our first dance to. It was warm out this time, so I settled for holding her hand as we walked to and from the car. It was a wonderful night.

It is amazing to think that this very day next year, July 9th, 2011, we will be getting married. In fact, as I am writing this, this very moment next year I will be standing next to her in front of everyone we know. I will be in my tux; she in her wedding dress. Both prepared to further promise ourselves to each other and reassure each other of our love. This moment next year I will be looking at my bride in all her beauty and thinking of all the adventures in front of us.

31,536,000 seconds until we are cutesy nervous about saying "I do." 525,600 minutes until we are to be joined in marriage. 8,760 hours until we make our lives one. 365 days before we say "I do." 1 year before we begin the rest of our lives together.

The day next year might seem a distance away, but I can already tell it is going to be the best day of my life.

Until next time, may you find happiness in another person's arms.

Skate

Restless

Calm, collected

I slide into bed.

Eager for the morrow,

Wanting, waiting

for the day to begin.

Right side, left side,

back, stomach.

Sleep eludes me.

Toss, turn, flop.

A stubborn mule,

rest relentlessly refuses

to come to me.

12, staring out into the darkness,

the day begins shape in my mind,

1, eyelids are heavy,

but pinned upright,

2, eyes are bloodshot,

mind is racing.

3, deep breaths and

counting sheep are failing.

4, bargaining with God,

just one hour of rest.

5, accepting the day,

it will begin.

6, sleep.

My eyes rest, heart slows,

my body slumbers

as easy as it can.

7, the morning comes.

Once eager, now I pause.

Snooze, just ten more minutes.

The day can wait.

Snooze, just ten more minutes.

I can wait.

8, I should have been awake an hour ago.

The day begins,

I am ready, not rested.

Whatever it holds,

I am prepared.

Until next time, may you sleep well.

Skate

Yolanda

I want to introduce someone who has a recurring role in these writings but never gets mentioned out right. She plays a vital role in my life; often carrying me from moment to moment. When she breaks down, I make sure she gets back to her usual self. She can be a bit stubborn at times, often forcing me to put my foot down. She can be very responsive, though she is either hot or cold. She has kept me on the road to success and has taken me down some questionable paths. She moves when I move, you can say we are attached at the hip. She lights up my world when it is dark outside and serenades me whenever I ask. She is not jealous of The One; they share a mutual bond by taking care of each other. Having her around reminds me that I have places to go; she is quick to remind me how far I have come. She lets me know if I am going too fast, though more often that I am going too slow. She has endured my abuse for far too long and deserves better.

Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Yolanda the Honda. My trusted companion on the road. Far more important than just a car.

Until next time, may you take care of those that take care of you.

Skate

Productive Saturday

Thanks to TOM and TOD who came out with a trailer and chainsaw. We were able to take out a couple of trees and a lot of mess. It was quite the busy morning hauling back in forth. The One and TOD tore down the trees; TOM and I took the loads off to the dump. Our teamwork allowed us to be finished with the trees in the afternoon. The One and I bed farewell to them after all that and then we continued to work. I cannot wait for the grass to grow in the back yard.

As we were finishing up around five, not surprisingly, our neighbor popped out with a chainsaw to trim his bushes and then mowed his lawn. An all to funny experience we get to enjoy every time we do yard work.

Until next time, take a break.

Skate

Marriage Well Wishes

For my beautiful youngest sister, her new husband, and their two lovely children:

With warmest wishes for the best in life, as you all look forward to a shared future of love, friendship, and the wonderful closeness that is family.

Congratulations.

Skate

What Cheer

I like places that have interesting names. What Cheer, Iowa would be one of those towns. A quick look at Google and you pop up with Jot 'Em Down, Texas and Bird in Hand, Pennsylvania; West Virginia has a Star Trek theme with Tribble, Vulcan, and Enterprise.

A few more favorites of mine:

Hoop and Holler, Texas

Hoot and Holler Crossing, Texas

Knockemstiff, Ohio

Spunky Puddle, Ohio

Whynot, Mississippi

Ynot, Montana

Neverfail, Tennessee

Hobo Station, Mississippi

Monkey's Eyebrow, Kentucky

Bat Cave, North Carolina

Half Hell, North Carolina

Little Heaven, Delaware

Tick Bite, North Carolina

Shoofly, North Carolina

Dead Woman Crossing, Oklahoma

Goodnight, Oklahoma

Until next time, may you find your own little crazy town name.

Skate

Broke Down

I did, not the car. It did not take much. I talked myself into stopping before The One even came home. I liked the idea that we would not get tired in the middle of the night while driving. I liked the idea that it would be a small drive in the morning that would be easy to make. She liked that we did not rush getting to where we are going.

We Pricelined a hotel on the way up and landed a Holiday Inn for $50. The room is wonderful and the internet is free. The only problem: resteraunts are not nearby. We had to travel to find a few closed joints before giving up and just going to McDonalds.

Now it is time for bed.

Until tomorrow, sleep well.
Skate

Long Day Behind and Ahead

I tried to get yesterday's post in, but never managed to get a break. I woke up at five to hit the gym; came home to shower and dress for work, then drove to work; work went longer than expected and ended up being late for rehearsal; after rehearsal, The One and I enjoyed a dinner together; by the time we got home it was past ten and the internet was down. It was quite the long day. But it was my last long work day until next Friday. Pardon me while I do a little happy dance.

Today will be a long driving day. The One and I are heading up to Iowa for my youngest sister's wedding. We will be there for until Sunday morning. I have made this drive many times. It is not the most exciting drive as most of it is just up 35. The One is on her way to convincing me that we should break it into two parts and not rush. The idea behind that is we do not have a hotel until tomorrow night and we are projected to get there early morning if we drive straight through.

I have two problems though. One, I do not like making unnecessary stops. If we were to stop in Des Moines we would only be three hours away and that is easily drivable. The second problem is that I do not want to wake up and drive for another half day which is what we would do if we stopped outside of KC. I know of a few places just inside the Iowa border but then I run into the first problem.

I am certain that we will discuss this on the road.

Expect a catch-up post later today while we are out on the road.

Until then, enjoy your days of work.

Skate

What a Trip

A huge thank you to TOD and TOM for having The One and I tag along on a camping trip. It was a load of fun.

The One and I made it out there just after six on Friday. We checked out the camper and the area before supper was ready. The meals that TOD cooked and TOM worked for were amazing the whole trip. They have a nice camper. It can sleep five normal size adults and one large size adult. Taking care of business was an adventure for me that involved one of my legs resting in the shower. I am amazed that I did not break anything in the trailer. I did however on the first night push The One right up into the camper wall while sleeping. After the first night I made an adjustment and I do not think she had any more bumps. I was really pleased with the camper as a whole and think I might get something like it when I retire.

We did a lot of fishing and I caught my first fish there with The One's pole. I was both excited I had caught one and disappointed I did not catch one with my pole. Not too long after though I caught my first fish with my own pole! The One was the fishing champ while were there; overall she had just one less fish than TOM over the course of the trip with TOM getting a three day head start. It must be the pink pole.

I think my favorite thing by far was The Big Dog. The Big Dog is what TOD calls the big spring at the park. The water is frigid. The sign puts the temperature at anywhere between 56 and 60 degrees. It feels a lot colder when you stick your head under the fall. The ritual we performed over and over was to stick your head under the fall and yell "BIG DOG!!!" after you yell you let out a few whoops and barks. I pushed the limit each time we went. The first time I went under and counted to ten. Then the next time I went for twenty. And even further the last time with thirty. Each time I yelled and whooped then counted and then yelled and whooped again. So in actuality I spent about another ten seconds each time.

While we were packing up I started to do the math for how much it would cost to just stay out there. When I retire, between my pension and money saved, I could just live out there. I think that is kind of cool. It might be an idea for retirement when I get there.

Until tomorrow, and even after that, enjoy your day off and think of those that lost their lives for our great country.

Skate

Camping

This weekend should be a lot of fun. I will camping with TOD, TOM, and The One. Lots of fishing, swimming, golfing, and just being lazy planned for this weekend. I look forward to basking in the sun, tossing out a line, and drinking a cold beer for most of the day.

As far as I can recall, this will be my first camping experience. When I was younger I did have a one week outdoors experience but we stayed in a cabin. There were no showers there so it might count. This time round I take a step closer to camping by being in a camper. TOD is overly worried about where I will fit when sleeping. I have two options, and while neither are as large as my king size bed I will manage.

Someone was explaining the golf course that we will be whacking balls at. I will have to remember not to take myself to seriously as the course is no joke. I can foresee a lot of lost balls in my future.

One thing we cannot forget is why we have the long weekend. While you are out camping, at home, work, or just out and about take the time to remember the men and women of our Armed Forces who have given their lives for our country.

Until next time, may you enjoy your weekend.

Skate

Lead Foot

While I follow most laws of road, I will not argue that I do not always obey speed limits. I often treat them as guidelines. An idea if how fast one should go in clear weather. The road rager in me rages when the car in front does not meet what he looks at as a minimum.

I also will not argue the speeding ticket I received today. The young enforcer of the road clocked me at 22 in a 15. His lights twirled just as I entered the new zone and was slowing to meet the new speed. My car does not even register 15; it starts at 20. I will have to figure a way to feel 15.

Luckily, as I was on a complex, it will not cost a thing. It will take one of my six points in the next year.

Until tomorrow, may you slow down and enjoy life.
Skate

Splashes

Every now and then I get an idea or dream that runs through my disconnected brain. The dreams are flashes of what could be or what could of been. The ideas are splashes. Here are a few splashes from the past:

It wells up inside you, Eager to find it's way out.
You hold it to you as strong as you can,
and the harder you hold the more it bursts out.
You are unable to contain it as it eats you alive.
You're imprisoned in your own wealth of emotion.
You'll give in only to find yourself unable to stop.
It takes over you and has no plan on letting you go.
You hate it, you love it, you're thoughts collide.
A mesh of feelings thrust their will upon you,
and you are unable to control your inner thoughts.
You become overwhelmed and have lost
all that you held onto that made you who you are.
And you are still okay.

-----------

I have more to offer than looks,
I am a man of personality.
I have likes and dislikes,
I have my moments,
I am who I am.

I have more to offer than a smile,
I am full of laughter and hope.
I am smart enough to dream,
I am not just a face,
I am who I am.

I have more to offer than hugs,
I am a man of inner warmth.
I hold you for safety, to not let go,
I will not just be a moment,
I am who I am.

I have more to offer than a man,
I offer a unique person,
I offer laughter, hope, dreams,
I offer hugs, warmth, safety,
I offer me.

--------

So strange the feeling
of frustration
as I pour out
these strained words.

------
My mind echos
the empty beating
of my desperate heart.
----------
The stillness of the room
suffocates me.
----------
Fastened to my thoughts
of hope; of dreams unfilled.

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

Until tomorrow, may you find a poet in you.

Skate

Why I Relay

For those that do not know, the name on my donation page is that of my late uncle on my Bdad's side. He died before I had a chance to meet him. I relay for him.

I relay for all the people I have known, that I know, and that I will know that have cancer. I relay to save lives. I relay for hope. I relay to spread knowledge. I relay for a cure.

It's amazing to think that millions of people will be diagnosed with cancer this year. Somebody close to us may be one of them.

It is amazing what just a small donation can do. A small amount is all that is needed from an individual, it is a group of individuals that make that large amount. Think about just donating $5. If you can get you and 10 people to donate just that amount that is $55. If each one of those can get 10 other people to donate we can raise over $500. If you want to know what your money goes to this is how it can help:

$25-$45 - The cost of an interpreter for a 10-minute call to 1-800-ACS-2345

$30 - 1 pair of gloves for the Polyp Man costume

$60 - 1 case of latex gloves

$100 - 2 give coupons for the tic catalog that provides women battling cancer with a complimentary wig, bra or other personal care item

$120 - 1 case of 144 Petri dishes

$150 - 1 case of 500 test tubes

$150 - 6 glass Erienmeyer flasks, which allow researchers to mix and/or store different substances, including potentially beneficial drugs, to discover their cancer-related-effect

$200 - 1 package of 50 sheets of X-ray film

$250 - 83 hours of toll-free access to the NCIC

$312 - 8 round-trips for 1 patient via the Road to Recovery program

$350 - 1 Gel Box, which researchers use to isolate DNA and identify differences that may impact cancer diagnosis or treatment

$500 - Reach to Recovery visits to 5 women

$700 - Cost of annual training of staff who help prepare volunteers to facilitate the Man to Man program

$800 - Cost of Look Good...Feel Better consultations for 4 women

$1,000 - Hope Lodge - Expenses for 1 patient for one day

$2,000 - 1 new microscope

$3,000 - Expenses for 1 patient in an American Cancer Society funded clinical trial

$5,000 - Dividing DNA taken from 1,200 cases during the American Cancer Society's Prevention Study II, which helps researchers understand the genetics of cancer

$10.000 - Develop and produce 1 new web cast story for the Cancer Survivors Network

$24,000 - Tell A Friend Materials translated into 4 Asian Languages

$88,000 - One issue and postage for CA: Cancer Journal For Clinicians, the most widely circulated oncology journal in the world, which provides cancer care professionals with the latest on cancer diagnosis, treatment and prevention

$100,000 - Behavioral Research Center - 1 study

• Helping people stay well by helping them take steps to prevent cancer or detect it early, when it’s most treatable
• Helping people get well by being in their corner around the clock to guide them through every step of their cancer experience
• Finding cures by funding groundbreaking research that helps us understand cancer’s causes, determine how best to prevent it and discover new ways to cure it
• Fighting back by working with lawmakers to pass laws to defeat cancer and rally communities worldwide to join the fight

Even if you do not know someone with cancer, chances are someone you know knows someone with cancer. Help them out by making a small donation for the cure. Each donation provides hope for everyone out there. Together, we have the power to help create a world where cancer can no longer claim another year of anyone’s life.

http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?px=14418441&pg=personal&fr_id=23950

May you find it in your hearts to donate.

Skate

First Fish!

After rehearsal today I put a few lines in the water with Blu while our ladies talked idly by. We had been relaxing for a half hour when I had the idea to get ice cream. Everyone liked the idea and a plan was made. I cast my line out one last time before we were to head out.

I had wasted a nibble earlier. The novice fisher in me reeled in a quickly as possible instead of letting the fish take the hook. This time when I go the nibble I was patient. Possibly too patient, as Blu and The One yelled at me to reel the fish in.

I just saw the bobber go down and thought it was just nibbling. Apparently if it goes down in the water for more than just a dip it is a bite. I was so excited I did not know what to do. Finally I started to reel it in. The One warned me not to snap my line. I wanted to reel it all the way to the top, which I was told I was wrong. I got it close enough that I was told to take it out of the water.

There it was. A little catfish. I was so excited; the little kid inside of me was giddier than could be.

Until tomorrow, may you catch what you are looking for.

Skate

The Return of Monopoly

The One and I played our Monopoly game tonight as we ate our dinner. The version we played has an electronic banking system. While it is neat and orderly, I find it hard to keep track of how much I have. The One was often aggravated when I asked her to check my balance. Normally I would be able to count my own stash that I keep unorganized so no one can truly tell how much I have. I do like the electronic bank, I just which I could readily see my tally.

For those that have not played with me, I am an aggressive purchaser. Very aggressive. In the beginning of the game I buy any and everything I land on. I am sure I am not the only one who does this. The one difference is I have seen people stop when they run out of cash; I continue. I mortgage properties left and right to purchase new ones. At one point tonight I had more mortgaged properties than I did un-mortgaged. My goal is to control the board and the only way to do that is to have property.

About my fourth pass around the board I had already received a concession from The One. We were about ten minutes into the game and I owned at least one piece of property from each set and managed a full set as well. The One sat with a full bank account and a few properties. She knew her chances of pulling this one out were slim. I convinced her to continue and the dice continued to roll my way. I bought out the rest of the properties, save Boardwalk. I started up with houses and paying off mortgages.

With the writing on the wall, The One conceded. I am very proud of her for not kicking and screaming like she did last year. She took it like a champ and I am sure the dice will be more friendly next time. For now I hold monopoly.

Until next time, may you have the monopoly on your own happiness.

Skate

Toga Form

As you know I will be playing Mark Antony in the upcoming production of Julius Caesar. The director will have us all traipsing around in togas. She informed me yesterday that for a portion I will only be half covered. I am not shy and will have no problem walking around the park half naked. I even joke that I will be going commando underneath the toga, or at least the director hopes I am joking.

While I am not shy, I am very arrogant and have a beautiful picture of myself. Unfortunately that picture of myself does not quite match actual reality. I see handsome stud muffing with a great physique; the world sees a gangly body that has taken in too much alcohol. As such, I will be focusing on those body parts that will be prominent in hopes that they will be somewhat toned by the time I am half naked running through the park.

Until the next one, may you wear your toga well.

Skate

Rural Hospitality

One of the things I like about living in smaller towns is that people seem to be friendlier. Over the last month I have paid more attention to this while driving. It is always pleasant when the people in the other car wave while we cross paths. The waving puts a smile on my face. We do not know each other but we make contact with just a friendly toss up.

The first time I can remember that waving put a smile on my face was the town I graduated in, which is much small than where I am now. If I were walking or driving vehicles of all sizes would wave a friendly hello. When I was walking those were especially nice to see. I imagine those felt more special as it gave me time to really think about how nice such a simple act is.

Until the next one, may you be friendly to those you cross.

Skate

End of a Long Week

For my daily readers I do apologize. It has been a long week full of long days and I did not make the time to post. I do have a treat for you now as you will have the missing posts posted in succession right now.

It was a really busy week at work. The days seemed to linger longer than I would have liked them to. Each day it was something new. Thankfully we made it through and I should have no problems getting to my break in the near future.

I did manage to get in two rehearsals this week. I am going to really enjoy Antony. Though right now, I am not where I need to be characterwise. I will get where I need to be by the time the show comes around.

The One had one of her summer classes this week. She passed with flying colors. I am so proud of her. It was tough not seeing her until late. Dinner was postponed and we ended up staying up later than we probably should have. Which prompted us to sleep in longer than we probably should have.

All and all, I am happy with the week and even happier it is done with.

Until the next one, may you have a restful weekend.

Skate

Monopoly

While out grocery shopping yesterday The One and I stumbled into a Monopoly Around the World addition. We decided that it was neat enough to buy and that we would have to play after we finished our chores. We did not end up finishing our chores till it was past ten and decided to postpone our game. This gave me time to think about the last time we played over a year ago. I decided to share it here as it was a fun story. I think I learned my lesson, her pouting is not nearly as effective as it was back then. Still I wonder if I should have been so greedy that I wanted to bankrupt her and not just accept her white flag.

And now the story:

Ah, the classic board game Monopoly. A game of capitalism and cutthroat. Loads of fun until you cut your own throat.

Icy weather has confined many Oklahomans to their houses this evening. And I'm sure I wasn't the only one to look in the closet for some entertainment. The idea was sound enough, snuggle up by the fire and entertain each other...wholesomely, or so I thought.

I started right out the gate buying everything I landed on. I was even mortgaging to buy even more property. The One wasn't as forward in her progress as she wasn't landing on anything to buy. No, instead her luck had to be landing on the Free Space eight gazillion times. (For those who might not play that way, we played it where that space has at least $500 dollars to it's name.) My luck in buying places landed me no where near Free Space. My more illustrious spot on the board was Income Tax. Killing all hope I had of undoing what I had done to myself.

Luckily I still had her right where I wanted her. Dead to rights. She had three railroads and a mingling of other properties but none that completed a set. I had, on the other hand, every other spot on the board; completing several sets for my own bidding. Even though she had built of quite the sum of money, it would be my victory at hand. Albeit a slow and boring victory.

There wasn't a way I could lose as long as I just stayed the course and chipped away at her funds. She knew this as well as I. I had three times as much property and was the only one who could build. This is where it turned ugly.

The One is not used to losing. She always gets her way. She frowned, pouted and even tried quiting the game. I wouldn't let her. This led to her being on her stomach in full tantrum. Still I wouldn't budge. Then came the phone call to her mother to further throw guilt upon my shoulders that I should let her win. Again The One wished to quit and I refused to let her.

Instead I broke.

She offered a trade of silly proportions that I laughed off. My counter offers were equally skewed my way as hers were to her and just as well declined. Then came my mistake. I decided to throw her a bone that I knew would be much more risk than reward but I was in a gambling mood.

At this point The One still had a bundle of cash at hand. So much in fact that when I was foolish enough to trade her into three sets and I two, she was able to instantly build hotels on two of the sets and still have enough to almost complete the third. One of those sets was THE most expensive on the board. I on the other hand did not have enough cash yet to even build on what property I already had.

It was then that I realized that I was going to need some Lady Luck to get me past the trap I set for myself. Lady Luck is sexist. The dice rolled in The One's favor not only on my turn but on hers. As I land on Park Place (hers) she lands on yet another Free Space where most of my money has gone. $1500 dollars that I only had two hundred on hand. Selling what little houses I had bought and then putting a mortgage on half my properties covered what seemed to be insurmountable.

I knew it when she dumped the hotels and I felt it when I shelled out the cash. I was done for. The game that was mine to lose, I lost. When all I had to do was wait it out and whittle her away I didn't even give myself a shot. Instead I crumbled to that adorable pouting face and ended up pouting myself.

I called her mother and asked for a receipt. Apparently I didn't read the label, The One is non-refundable.

I would not have it any other way.

Oh yeah, my lessons:

1. When the opponent throws the white flag, shake hands and walk away. Their isn't a reason to tout your yet-to-be won victory.

2. When you are ahead with no way of losing don't stub your toe. Remember even when you have such an advantage YOU can still mess yourself up.

3. Don't play a game with a woman you can't stand to see pout.

Until tomorrow, may you have smiled, laughed or groaned at the nonsense above.

Skate

Dodgeball and Kickball

While nowhere near my youthful wiry high school form, I still caught fire in dodgeball this morning. I bobbed, weaved, caught and knocked out quite a few people. In our second game I almost single-handedly eliminated the entire opposing team. I was not the only all-star out there. Each game a new person stood up. M&M went 1 on 3 and made it out alive and won the game for our team. Congrats!

I love a good game of dodgeball. When I was younger I would use Matrix like moves to avoid getting hit. It took a lot to get me out. I am a little sluggish by comparison now, but I can still hold my own. I also am a lot wider than I was back then, making for an even larger target.

Today, if the weather holds out I will be playing yet another game from my youth in kickball. Another favorite of mine that I will get to enjoy today. I have to wear bright clothes. Unfortunately I cannot find my green mullet or my Halloween gear to throw on. I have to settle for my bright yellow shirt, way to short shorts, soccer socks that will be pulled as high as can be. Hopefully I will find some other useful fun clothing items throughout the day.

Until next time, may you let the good times roll.

Skate

In Our Prayers

TOG (The One's Grandma) has been in the hospital since yesterday. The One has spent most of her time over there. I stopped by and visited this evening. She is doing better, but she awaits word on surgery tomorrow. The One will spend more time with her tomorrow and will be missing our fishing trip on Saturday so she can be close by. More than likely surgery will happen on Monday. The whole family has taken time to wish her well. Even my office has something planned.

Until tomorrow, may you keep her in your prayers.

Skate

Oh Nose

This year I my nose was being good. Up to last the end of last week I had only had a bloody nose once a week. I have had three in the last two days. None of them very strong or hard to stop. The last three caused because I am fighting a cold of some sort. With the bloody nose I had last week that brings the total to four in the month of May. Equal to what I had the rest of the year.

Bloody noses are nothing new to me. In fact, what is new is how few bloody noses I have had this year. Last year I had about one a day. In a ten day span last year I had fourteen bloody noses. The shortest of which lasted 45 minutes. The worst one lasted around four hours and made me sick. That prompted me to go see a doctor, again. I have never had much luck when it came to my nose a the doctor's office. They have come up with several different ideas but never any solutions for my bloody noses. The ENT specialist I saw was no different. He bluntly told me there was nothing we can do to stop them, and then proceeded to tell me a couple of options that he said would not work and then asked me to come back. After my return trip and again hearing no positive remarks I left with no intention of coming back.

I am told that at my age these are to dwindle down to a practical stop. Which for the most part they have. If it were not for my cold I would probably not have had these last few.

Until tomorrow, may your nose stay dry.

Skate

Steak and Potatoes

I am on the grill trying to quickly get in a meal before both rehearsal and the bad weather start. On the menu tonight we have rosemary red potatoes and filet mignon. The potatoes were mixed with extra virgin olive oil, rosemary, garlic, and a few other seasonings; then wrapped in tin foil and placed on the grill. The filets will not take as long, especially because The One and I love our steak medium-rare. All of this should be shared with a glass of wine. It will be quite the meal!

Until tomorrow, may your mouth water with delight.

Skate

Rain Day

That was one long tomorrow. Friday ended up being an extremely long work day. It capped off an exhausting week. Thankfully that night I joined with B12 for our Bate night. It was exactly what the doctor ordered after a long week. Now that my blogs are in order, I should not have another lapse in judgement where I am just not in the mood to blog. The obsessive compulsive in me likes that my blogs align nicely within the week.

Today is rather gloomy, raining and windy, and I suggested that we take a rain day much like we would if it were to be snowing and we took a snow day. I could not convince the office that we should take the day off because it was raining. A lot of people wished the could but no one wanted to start it. Even with the threat of tornadoes later in the evening I could not convince them that it was a good day to take off. I think rain days would be appropriate every now and then. Today, being a Monday, would be a very appropriate time to take one.

Until tomorrow, may you take your rain day.

Skate

Hogwash

This morning I sat in a meeting with people higher up in the corporate chain than me. They are department chiefs at a the second highest possible level. They came down to give out briefings on why things are done the way they are done to the general masses. This meeting thought was to get a feel for how things are in my purgatory office. When the question was first asked I outwardly showed some emotion by quietly laughing. Then I sat flummoxed as a person who has to this point shown outward thoughts and emotion against the office go through and tactfully talk about how things are. With the addition of another person who has a vested interest in keeping this office around, it had to be some of the best lipstick on a pig I have ever seen.

I should have known better. These are not the people you bring lower levels of concern to. We are already doing that through the channels we should be. There would not have been any good to come out of airing out our dirty laundry. I used to be the best one at that. I could paint a beautiful picture of how things were no matter how covered in excrement they are. Somewhere along my career path I switched gears. I no longer put lipstick on a pig; I tap dance and give fancy answers. When it comes down to calling an ugly baby ugly I do. Though most of the time I just say it is not the most attractive baby, but it will grow.

I do not want to return to painting lipstick on pigs, but I do need to remember to be tactful. It is very rare I forget at the office. It was quite the shock that I forgot this morning. I could blame it on dealing with rude people this morning that kind of set me on tilt, but that would just be an excuse. I still know better. I am still one of the better people at presenting a positive spin on situations that do not have many things to be positive about. I just have to remember that.

Until tomorrow, may you find your baby attractive because it is attractive.

Skate

Little Caesar

This summer will be dubbed Little Caesar now that I have been cast into both Lil' Abner and Julius Caesar. I will not have much free time after work it seems as I will always have a rehearsal to go to. Not that I am complaining. The One, and several friends, are in both shows so I will always have some company. I have good roles in both. I will be Marc Antony in Caesar and I will be Earthquake McGoon in Lil' Abner.

In case you were wondering, and I know some will ask, dates for Caesar are 25-27 of June; dates for Lil' Abner are July 23-25, 30-31.

Until tomorrow, may you think about enjoying Little Caesar.

Skate

New Look

Today I channeled my inner The One and rearranged my office. This the first, and will be the only, time that do that. It was good to see the change. I had wanted to move things around since I moved into that office. Rearranging just always ended up on the bottom of the priority list. With news that one of my cohorts will remain with us we decided it was time for a change. Boy does it look great.

My back no longer faces the entrance, nor does anyone else have to deal with that unfortunate situation. The room looks longer in this set-up and not so crowded. It has more of a professional look. It feels more like an office and less like a closet we were placed in.

Until tomorrow, may things move the way you want them.

Skate

Good Fortune

Yesterday I emptied the piggy bank to dig out quarters for a newspaper and I found a gem. Well, not an actual gem, I found a penny. Not just any penny though, a 1937 Wheat Penny. It was the backside of the penny that piqued my interest. I have always been interested in the years of coins and was pleased when I saw how old it was. I like seeing old coins. I thought it was just good luck finding it and was planning on keeping it around for a while just because it was from 1937. After doing some research, I found out there was more reason to keep it than just that.

It turns out that this penny, that clearly labels itself as being one cent, is valued at 25 cents. While it still cannot buy me much, being valued at 25 times what it was intended to be is quite awesome. Now I have more reason to keep it around. I am not a coin collector. I briefly kept the state quarters around. I usually just find an odd coin or old coin and keep it around longer by not spending it right away.

I cannot say how long this Wheat Penny will last. I will keep it out of the piggy bank and in plain view. After all, I am taking this as a sign that a good week is ahead.

Until tomorrow, may good fortune seek you.

Skate

Aisle or Window?

I personally like the window seat when I fly. I rarely budge from my seat; once on a 14 hour flight to Tokyo, I did not get up at all. Because I do not move, I do not like to be bothered by people who do get up. I also like to lean up against the wall and sleep. Oh how I like to sleep.

When I am not sleeping I enjoy looking out the window. On the flight to Dallas, clouds blanketed all that I could see. It looked like snow draped over the country side. Thick and beautiful. It was amazing to see the multiple layers in the sea of cloud.

Until next time, may you enjoy the view.

Skate

Last Solo

I leave back for home tomorrow making this my last night here. While there were close to a thousand people here, I did not socialize with anyone outside the conference. People stayed close to their cliques. I have managed to enjoy myself. Tonight will be no different.

Until tomorrow, may you find your time enjoyable.

Skate

Another Day, Another Dollar

My adventure went well last night. I must have looked good as I was hit on by a couple of old Japanese men. While some, or most, straight men might let themselves feel uncomfortable about the situation, I took it as a compliment. I passed a crazy lady who was screaming into a phone and attracting all the wrong kind of attention. She was yelling at the person on the other end of the phone; I do not blame them for leaving her.

For dinner I was attracted to a place that had a prime rib special and cheap drinks. I enjoyed a few drinks before heading back to my room to catch the Thunder.

I am eagerly awaiting our bounce back in Game 6.

Another full day of conference. I again set up lunch plans. We will have to see how this one goes.

Until tomorrow, may your eyelids fight the good fight and stay upright.

Skate

Cannot Stand Still

This will not be a shock to anyone: I have a hard time doing nothing. This is magnified when I am with a group. So when I wasted an hour of what was supposed to be a two hour break waiting for a group that never formed, I was less than pleased. When it became disappointingly obvious that the group I planned to go with was not going together I went to my room for a nap.

Though it has only been two lunches and an evening I cannot waste anymore time. Yesterday day was the first day of the conference and I expected that there might be some difficulties getting together. Today's lunch was giving people the benefit of the doubt and that was squandered. Tonight I will blaze my own path of adventure to one of the various restaurants in the immediate area. I cannot stand still.

Until tomorrow, may you create your own adventure.

Skate

Survived

I somehow managed to stay awake during all of meetings at the conference I am at. It is not so bad at this point. I have noticed that I do not mix all that well with company people. And other than the people I came with I do not know a lot of people. For the people from my past jobs I must not have left a lasting memory as most have passed me by without noticing.



Until tomorrow, may this blog from my phone work.



Skate

Too Awesome?

Yesterday I auditioned for a narrator position for a very important ceremony. I was nominated by one of my higher bosses for this opportunity and went up against another person who had been nominated by someone else. I went last and gave it my all. I thought I did well. I answered the questions after the reading well. I was lauded while I was there. One member on the board was so awestruck at my narration that he had said that he wanted to tape me. Every member loved my style and voice for the position. They were incredibly pleased and wowed.

When it came down to a vote, I lost 4-1.

I did not receive the honor of narrator position for this highly respectable position. The worries of the board members were that I was animated and so good that I would take focus away from the ceremony as it would be on me and that I have experience as a narrator. The same reasons I was nominated in the first place, largely considered to be strengths, were my downfall. I do have a strong presence and I am animated in the sense that I use inflection and emphasis during my narration. I have done many different events in the past. People would ask whenever a need would arise and I would gladly take on the honor. This would have been my first time for this event, but I do have the experience to lean on.

Unfortunately, both those assets must have been more than they were looking for. I was asked to be the back-up, and of course I accepted. I enjoy these types of opportunities and cannot turn them down. I am sure I will have more chances to narrate, I am just not sure when.

Until next time, may your strengths be your strengths.

Skate

A Quick Day

Today should go by quick. I start the morning off prepping for an audition for a narrator position, then head to an awards banquet that will last for ages, then come back to prepare for a narrator gig I have in the afternoon that will close out my day. I do not think that a lot of actual work will be done, but it will go by quickly.

I do hope to get the narrator position I am trying out for today. It will be very high profile and get me back into the groove of being the go-to-guy for narration. A couple of years ago I was that guy that people came to when they wanted a narrator. Then I stepped back to give others the opportunity, and had not taken a gig for some time.

A young lady for my office is up for a quarterly award and the whole office will be there to support her. If my interest was not already invested, I am now her supervisor. I do hope she wins, my other coworker and boss worked hard on her awards package, and I prepped her for board panels that she would meet. She has already won at two levels and this would be icing on the cake.

Until tomorrow, may your day go by smoothly and as fast as you want it to.
Skate

Scattered to the Wind

So far this year I have a friend move to the Chicago area and one move to Japan. Here in a few weeks another friend will be leaving for Germany. While normally not a big deal, as I am used to moving and friends moving. Somehow though, I have managed to become used to having people stay around.

I do wish all of them well. And I am thankful for technology that allows us to stay in touch. Who knows, maybe I will set up trips to see each one individually at some time. I at least expect them back for the wedding next year.

Until tomorrow, keep your friends close.
Skate

168

Shelly D. Bland, 25, of Tuttle

Carrol June "Chip" Fields, 48, Guthrie

Rona Linn Kuehner-Chafey, 35, Oklahoma City

Carrie Ann Lenz, 26, Chotaw

Kenneth Glenn McCullough, 36, Edmond

Cynthia L. Brown, 26, Oklahoma City

Donald Ray Leonard, 50, Edmond

Mickey B. Maroney, 50, Oklahoma City

Linda G. McKinney, 47, Oklahoma City

Kathy Lynn Seidl, 39, Bethel

Alan G. Whicher, 40, Edmond

Ted L. Allen, 48, Norman

Peter R. Avillanoza, 56, Oklahoma City

David Neil Burkett, 47, Oklahoma City

Donald Earl Burns, Sr., 63, Oklahoma City

Kimberly Kay Clark, 39, Oklahoma City

Susan Jane Ferrell, 37, Oklahoma City

Dr. George Michael Howard, 45, Vallejo, Calif.

Antonio "Tony" C. Reyes, 55, Edmond

Lanny Lee David Scroggins, 46, Yukon

Leora Lee Sells, 57, Oklahoma City

Jules A. Valdez, 51, Edmond

David Jack Walker, 54, Edmond

Michael D. Weaver, 54, Edmond

Frances "Fran" Ann Williams, 48, Oklahoma City

Clarence Eugene Wilson, Sr. 49, Oklahoma

Diane E. (Hollingsworth) Althouse, 45, Edmond

Andrea Yvette Blanton, 33, Oklahoma City

Kim R. Cousins, 33, Midwest City

Diana Lynne Day, 38, Oklahoma City

Castine Brooks Hearn Deveroux, 49, Oklahoma City

Judy J. (Froh) Fisher, 45, Oklahoma City

Linda Louise Florence, 43, Oklahoma City

J. Colleen Guiles, 59, Oklahoma City

Thompson Eugene "Gene" Hodges, Jr., 54, Norman

Ann Kreymborg, 57, Oklahoma City

Teresa Lea Taylor Lauderdale, 41, Shawnee

Mary Leasure-Rentie, 39, Bethany

James A. McCarthy II, 53, Edmond

Betsy J. (Beebe) McGonnell, 47, Norman

Patricia Ann Nix, 47, Edmond

Terry Smith Rees, 41, Midwest City

John Thomas Stewart, 51, Oklahoma City

John Karl Van Ess III, 67, Chickasha

Jo Ann Whittenberg, 35, Oklahoma City

Sgt. Benjamin LaRanzo Davis, USMC, 29, Edmond

Capt. Randolph A. Guzman, USMC, 28, Castro Valley, Calif.

Olen Burl Bloomer, 61, Moore

James E. Boles, 50, Oklahoma City

Dr. Margaret L. "Peggy" Clark, 42, Chickasha

Richard "Dick" Cummins, 55, Mustang

Doris "Adele" Higginbottom, 44, Oklahoma City

Carole Sue Khalil, 50, Oklahoma City

Rheta Bender Long, 60, Oklahoma City

Paul Gregory Beatty Broxterman, 42, Edmond

Paul D. Ice, 42, Midwest City

Claude Authur Medearis, S.S.A., 41, Norman

Lucio Aleman, Jr., 33, Oklahoma City

Mark Allen Bolte, 28, Oklahoma City

Michael Carrillo, 44, Oklahoma City

Larry James Jones, 46. Yukon

James K. Martin, 34, Oklahoma City

Ronota Ann Newberry-Woodbridge, 31, Edmond

Jerry Lee Parker, 45, Norman

Michelle A. Reeder, 33, Oklahoma City

Rick L. Tomlin, 46, Piedmont

Johnny Allen Wade, 42, Edmond

John A. Youngblood, 52, Yukon

Sgt. 1st Class Lola Bolden, U.S. Army, 40, Birmingham, Ala.

Karen Gist Carr, 32, Midwest City

Peggy Louise Holland, 37, Oklahoma City

John C. Moss III., 50, Oklahoma City

Victoria (Vickey) L. Sohn, 36, Moore

Dolores (Dee) Stratton, 51, Moore

Kayla Marie Titsworth, 3.50, Lawton

Wanda Lee Watkins, 49, Oklahoma City

Harley Richard Cottingham, 46, Oklahoma City

Peter L. DeMaster, 44, Oklahoma City

Norma "Jean" Johnson, 62, Oklahoma City

Larry L. Turner, 42, Oklahoma City

Robert G. Westberry, 57, Oklahoma City

Woodrow Clifford "Woody" Brady, 41, Oklahoma City

Kimberly Ruth Burgess, 29, Oklahoma City

Kathy A. Finley, 44, Yukon

Jamie (Fialkowski) Genzer, 32, Wellston

Sheila R. Gigger-Driver, 28, Oklahoma City

Linda Coleen Housley, 53, Oklahoma City

Robbin Ann Huff, 37, Bethany

Christi Yolanda Jenkins, 32, Edmond

Alvin J. Justes, 54, Oklahoma City

Valerie Jo Koelsch, 33, Oklahoma City

Kathy Cagle Leinen, 47, Oklahoma City

Claudette (Duke) Meek, 43, Oklahoma City

Frankie Ann Merrell, 23, Oklahoma City

Jill Diane Randolph, 27, Oklahoma City

Claudine Ritter, 48, Oklahoma City

Christy Rosas, 22, Moore

Sonja Lynn Sanders, 27, Moore

Karan Howell Shepherd, 27, Moore

Victoria Jeanette Texter, 37, Oklahoma City

Virginia M. Thompson, 56, El Reno

Tresia Jo "Mathes" Worton, 28, Oklahoma City

Baylee Almon, 1, Oklahoma City

Danielle Nicole Bell, 15 months, Oklahoma City

Zachary Taylor Chavez, 3, Oklahoma City

Dana LeAnne Cooper, 24, Moore

Anthony Christopher Cooper II, 2, Moore

Antonio Ansara Cooper Jr., 6 months, Midwest City

Aaron M. Coverdale, 5.50, Oklahoma City

Elijah S. Coverdale, 2.50, Oklahoma City

Jaci Rae Coyne, 14 months, Moore

Brenda Faye Daniels, 42, Oklahoma City

Taylor Santoi Eaves, 8 months, Midwest City

Tevin D'Aundrae Garrett, 16 months, Midwest City

Kevin "Lee" Gottshall II, 6 months, Norman

Wanda Lee Howell, 34, Spencer

Blake Ryan Kennedy, 1.50, Amber

Dominique Ravae (Johnson)-London, 2, Oklahoma City

Chase Dalton Smith, 3, Oklahoma City

Colton Wade Smith, 2, Oklahoma City

Scott D. Williams, 24, Tuttle

Teresa Antionette Alexander, 33, Oklahoma City

Richard A. Allen, 46, Oklahoma City

Pamela Cleveland Argo, 36, Oklahoma City

Saundra G. (Sandy) Avery, 34, Midwest City

Calvin Battle, 62, Oklahoma City

Peola Battle, 56, Oklahoma City

Oleta C. Biddy, 54, Tuttle

Casandra Kay Booker, 25, Oklahoma City

Carol Louise Bowers, 53, Yukon

Peachlyn Bradley, 3, Oklahoma City

Gabreon D.L. Bruce, 3 months, Oklahoma City

Katherine Louise Cregan, 60, Oklahoma City

Ashley Megan Eckles, 4, Guthrie

Don Fritzler, 64, Oklahoma City

Mary Anne Fritzler, 57, Oklahoma City

Laura Jane Garrison, 61, Oklahoma City

Margaret Betterton Goodson, 54, Oklahoma City

Ethel L. Griffin, 55, Edmond

Cheryl E. Hammon, 44, Oklahoma City

Ronald Vernon Harding, Sr., 55, Oklahoma City

Thomas Lynn Hawthorne, Sr., 52, Choctaw

Dr. Charles E. Hurlburt, 73, Oklahoma City

Jean Nutting Hurlburt, 67, Oklahoma City

Raymond "Lee" Johnson, 59, Oklahoma City

LaKesha Richardson Levy, 21, Midwest City

Aurelia Donna Luster, 43, Guthrie

Robert Lee Luster, Jr., 45, Guthrie

Rev. Gilbert X. Martinez, 35, Oklahoma City

Cartney J. McRaven, 19, Midwest City

Derwin W. Miller, 27, Oklahoma City

Eula Leigh Mitchell, 64, Oklahoma City

Emilio Tapia, 50, Oklahoma City

Charlotte Andrea Lewis Thomas, 43, Oklahoma City

Michael George Thompson, 47, Yukon

LaRue A. Treanor, 55, Guthrie

Luther H. Treanor, 61, Guthrie

Robert N. Walker, Jr., 52, Oklahoma City

Julie Marie Welch, 23, Oklahoma City

W. Stephen Williams, 42, Cashion

Sharon Louise Wood-Chesnut, 47, Oklahoma City

Steven Douglas Curry, 44, Norman

Michael L. Loudenslager, 48, Harrah

Rebecca Needham Anderson, 37, Midwest City

Anita Christine Hightower, 27, Oklahoma City

Kathryn Elizabeth Ridley, 24, Oklahoma City

Robert N. Chipman, 51, Edmond

Trudy Jean Rigney, 31, Midwest City

My family had moved to Japan just months before the Oklahoma City bombing. I was ten years old, asleep when it happened. It was just after midnight there, and it was not until the morning of the 20th that I knew.

Remember them always.

May we never forget,

Skate