Life on the Road (Turn The Page...)

Remember Me (Kleenex alert)

2011-05-21T11:11:00.000-07:00

The Cost of Freedom

2011-05-05T12:20:00.000-07:00

Habeas Corpus

2011-05-04T10:39:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr President,

Why are you refusing to release the photos of Bin Laden's corpse? Who are you afraid of offending?

Are you concerned that the photos might enflame the Muslim World? They are already enflamed. The want us dead! They post You Tube videos of our citizens on their knees surrounded by masked Jihadists while they saw through their necks and scream through their own blood. They walk into crowds of innocent people all over the world and detonate bombs designed to cause the maximum collateral damage. They shoot into crowds of US Soldiers and their families in waiting areas of military clinics. They are not concerned about offending US!

Mr President,
You offend ME. You offend me when you quote the "Holy Qu'ran" and misquote the Bible. You offend me when you push to afford our enemies the same rights that they are trying to destroy. You offend me when you spend our money to help the terrorists move back into Gaza after Israel has removed them for their own safety.
Finally, you offend me when you protect the dignity of our worst enemy while his followers send our brave men & women home IN PIECES from a Improvised Explosive Device.

Give the families of over 3000 9/11 victims the closure & satisfaction of viewing the result of justice for Usama Bin Laden.

Give the families of our American Armed Forces the closure & satisfaction of viewing the result of justice for Usama Bin Laden.

Give the American People what we want; Habeas Corpus Show us the body!

If only I could write a song...

2010-07-07T07:30:00.000-07:00

Forgotten Verse-Star-Spangled Banner

2010-06-27T08:38:00.000-07:00

Is flotilla battle signaling start of 'Gog and Magog'?

2010-06-04T09:53:00.000-07:00

Is flotilla battle signaling start of 'Gog and Magog'?

"That's What We Do..."

2010-05-31T09:11:00.000-07:00

DOES GOD EXIST?

2010-05-02T07:47:00.000-07:00

A man went to a barbershop to have his hair cut and his beard trimmed. As
the barber began to work, they began to have a good conversation. They talked about
so many things and various subjects.
When they eventually touched on the subject of God, the barber said: 'I don't believe that God exists.'
'Why do you say that?' asked the customer.

'Well, you just have to go out in the
street to realize that God doesn't exist.
Tell me, if God exists,would there be so many sick people? Would there be abandoned children?

If God existed, there would be neither suffering nor pain.

I can't imagine a loving God who would allow all of these things.'

The customer thought for a moment,
but didn't respond because he didn't
want to start an argument.

The barber finished his job and the customer left the shop.
Just after he left the barbershop, he
saw a man in the street with long,
stringy, dirty hair and an untrimmed beard.

He looked dirty and unkempt. The customer turned back and entered the barber shop again and he said to the barber:

'You know what? Barbers do not exist.'

'How can you say that?' asked the surprised barber. 'I am here, and I am a barber. And I just worked on you!'

'No!' the customer exclaimed. 'Barbers don't exist because if they did, there would be no people with dirty long hair and untrimmed beards, like that man outside.'
' Ah, but barbers DO exist! That's what happens when people do not come to me.'

'Exactly!' affirmed the customer. 'That's the point! God, too, DOES exist! That's what happens when people do not go to Him and don't look to Him for help.

That's why there's so much pain and suffering in the world.'

2nd Amendment Vote

2010-01-18T15:23:00.000-08:00

Obama's new Attorney General, Eric Holder, has already said this is one of his major issues.
This takes literally 2 clicks to complete. Please vote on this gun issue question with USA Today. It will only take a few seconds of your time. Then pass the link on to all the pro gun (& others, too) folks you know. Hopefully these results will be published later this month. This upcoming year will become critical for gun owners with the Supreme Court's accepting the District of Columbia case against the right for individuals to bear arms.

Here's what you need to do:

First - vote on this one.

Second - launch it to other folks and have THEM vote - then we will see if the results get published.

The Question is:
"Does the Second Amendment give individuals the right to bear arms?"

Click on the link below and PLEASE vote.

USATODAY.com - Quick Question

Grandpa? Grandma?

2010-01-10T07:10:00.000-08:00

After 7 months of sharing our lives with our oldest son, his wife and their son and 3 months with our daughter and her two rambuncious toddlers, we are coming to the realization that the "empty nest" is not a term we will be using to describe our lives any time soon. The crew will be coming soon to start repairing the damage to drywall, carpet & paint in the aftermath of the "Jones Gang".
We miss the little "demolition team" terribly since reuniting them with their daddy who was dodging bullets in Afghanistan before his return in early Dec. and we are looking forward to the time when they live closer then 1200 miles away (we made that trip 4 times last year).

Brayden (pictured above) DOES live much closer (15 min.) and we will be helping his mommy while she travels to Seattle off-n-on for the next couple months to get some mandatory training on a new computer system (normally, she tele-commutes from home).

Brayden LOVES his guitar. He also LOVES to climb up on the piano bench an pound an original composition of his own creation (with an ear-2-ear grin on his face). He's not bad on the drums, either.

Well, I always wanted to play in a rock band; maybe I'll just "grow my own" with the Grand-kids.

2009-11-10T09:05:00.000-08:00

Happy 234th Birthday, Marines!

To my Son-In-Law, currently serving in Afghanastan, "Thank You" for your service to Our Corps and Our Country.

Semper Fidelis (Always Faithful)

Brian Baird vs. a Marine Dad

2009-09-29T08:20:00.000-07:00

Viva Liagra!

2009-09-23T14:16:00.001-07:00

Sorry, I couldn't resist.

Bragging Rights

2009-06-26T05:59:00.001-07:00

All 4 of our children possess some level of artistic talent (music, theater, comedy, etc) but I am shamelessly taking the opportunity in this post to brag on my daughter, Carol.

First, with pencil and paper, she captures (beyond question) one of America's icons.

But second (and more importantly) she chooses Patriots and Conservatives as her heroes (no "pin-heads" allowed).

Great job on the Duke!

Love, Dad

Part 3 of "...Last Train to Clarkston..."

2009-06-21T11:39:00.001-07:00

Monday came all to soon and it was time to point the chrome & steel (and rust) back toward the West. Our host seemed to think home was "that-a-way".

So we cleaned the bugs off from the East-bound journey and set out to collect a few hundred more with the sun at our backs. Down along the Snake and then West into Pomeroy (our favorite pheasant hunting ground) and then down through Walla Walla and Pasco where we brushed elbows with the Might Columbia before rolling up into Richland for gas, water and "feeling" in our butt cheeks.

At Richland, we veered northwest onto Hwy 240 to Hwy 24 and skirted the West edge of the Hanford Nuclear Reservation. Out there, the sage brush rolls down the highway almost as fast as our suicide machines.

Those are the Rattlesnake Mtns. in the West behind K.T.

And the Hanford Reservation behind me in the East...After the photo-op, it was on to Yakima for more fuel (gas & groceries) and then back on Hwy 12 through Naches and up over White Pass.A very talkative truck-driver was kind enough to shoot this pic of K.T. & I with Mt Rainier in the background.

To make a long blog short, we had one more gas stop in Packwood before the last leg of our journey. Tired as we were, we still took the long way home and ran the "twisties" between Alder Lake and La Grande on Hwy 7. Yeah, Eatonville Cutoff would have been shorter but "who cares"? It's all about the ride.

And the ride was worth it all. Besides a great visit with an old friend, K.T. and I bonded on a new level. He's not just my son anymore, he's my "riding partner".

And, oh yes, his '81 CX500 made the whole round trip without incident. (Gotta' hand it to Honda- they just keep running)

See you on the road. Don't forget to "wave"...

Part 2 of "...Last Train to Clarkston..."

2009-06-14T05:01:00.001-07:00

Learning to "cool my heals" and relax has been a lesson long overdue for me (just ask Mrs. WingMaster). For many years I attacked everything like it was a job with a deadline. And, Oh, the pleasures I missed along the way; like wading in a clear creek on a hot spring day in Hell's Canyon.

Dan-Da-Man and his best friend, Lori took K.T. and I on a cage trip down the Snake River and into the north end of Hell's Canyon. Since a majority of the expedition involved gravel roads, the iron horses had to stay at the barn (gravel & chrome don't mix well).

The scenery over there is gorgeous; I love deserts, canyons, rivers and mountains and Hell's Canyon delivers all these in wild abundance.

Our first stop on the River was to let Dan and Lori show us the Petroglyphs- 500 yr old rock etchings by the Nez Pierce Indians that document a Gathering that could be described as their version of Thanksgiving. (I thought a few of them might have been added by teenagers in the "Big Hair" days of the '80's.)

Then, we pushed onward, deep into the canyon to drink in the splendor that is God's Creation.

Although this was the most blog-worthy part of "Part 2", the rest of the weekend was just as precious to me. Often, Dan would ask, "Is there anything particular you guys want to do?". We would look at each other and then reply, "No, man. We're just happy to hang out with you and relax." And that's exactly what we did. We barbecued, played music, swapped stories and reminisced about our 36 years of history together (I've known Dan since 7th grade). He is probably one of the few people in my life that I can pick up a conversion with after 10 years of silence and not feel disconnected.

I am ashamed to admit that it took a motorcycle to teach me to "enjoy the ride" along the way but I am thoroughly absorbed in the lesson and looking forward to more "field trips" as extra credit assignments.

Thanks for taking this ride with me. There's more to come in Part 3...

"...Last Train to Clarkston..." (Part 1 of 3)

2009-05-30T11:29:00.001-07:00

OK, it wasn't a train; it was a couple motor "sickles" (as Dirt would say), And it was Clarkston, WA (not Clarksville). And it was the best bike trip I've been on yet (except that Mrs. WingMaster wasn't on the back to massage my stiff neck).

We left Friday at 0900 with full hearts and full tanks and headed for White Pass... ( Yes, that's K.T. and his "vintage" '81 Honda CX500 Custom- the "custom" part is the rust and bent hard-parts) Will it survive 750 mile round-trip?

1st fuel stop was Packwood and then on through Yakima (following Hwy 12 E) to the next fuel depot- Grainger

Then on through Richland until we got off the beaten path and headed for the Umatilla Wilderness. (I wish I had stopped and taken more pics on the way there, but the ride and scenery were so awesome that I got lost in the joy of it all.

And finally (8 hours later) we arrive at our destination, Clarkston, WA, to spend some time with one of my oldest & dearest friends, Dan-the Man (confirmed Cager, guitar-player, singer-songwriter and all-around great guy). I know- I should have taken more pics! So, K.T.'s Death-Cheater made the first half of the ride; will it survive the scourching heat and miles of sagebrush, asphalt and oil-mat on the ride back? Stay tuned for Part 2 of the "Last Train to Clarkston" (A lot more pics in the next two parts).

Comments

2009-03-19T15:31:00.000-07:00

I don't know know what happened to the "comments" link on my last post. It's not that important; I was just noticing that it dissappeared. Hope y'all enjoyed the "bears".

Grin and "Bear" it....

2009-03-19T11:38:00.001-07:00

And then there's the Right-Wing-Wacko bears....

And finally, the Happy-Go-Lucky Pole-Dancing Bears...

Which bear are YOU today?

"What Would Peter Do? (WWPD)

2009-03-14T08:11:00.001-07:00

My sincere thanks to all of you who have commented on my last post. I was beginning to feel "alone" out here. Obviously, I am frustrated, sad, and angry at the direction our country is heading.

The next question is (as Christians) what do we do now? Pray, of course, but what else? Anything? Nothing?

Being "me", my first reaction is "fight, not flight". (Kind of a "What would Peter do-WWPD" reaction)

The real question to be explored is "What would JESUS have ME do?" And the answer may be different for each Christian in America.

Please ponder that question and share your insights.

God Bless you and God Bless the United States of America.

The Manchurian Candidate

2009-03-10T04:40:00.000-07:00

I apologize to those who may find this cartoon disrespectful to the office of the President of the United States. I have the utmost respect for the Office. I wish I could say the same for the President.

Barring an efficacious grass-roots revolt on the White House Lawn, the Omnibus Spending Bill will be signed into law today.

"Candidate Obama" promised an administration "free of ear-marks" and a "line-by-line" scrutiny of any bill that comes before him for signature.

So much for "Change You Can Believe In"; enter the era of the Manchurian Candidate.

From day one (and before), Obama has implemented the agenda of the Left Wing of the Democratic Party. His Cabinet appointees have been Washington Insiders primarily cultivated during the Clinton Administration. His Economic Recovery think-tank that was formed to brain-storm solutions to the failing economy is a "Who's-Who" of Campaign Contributors and Insiders from failed and/or bailed out corporations.

HR 1 (AKA the "Swindle-Us" Bill) granted the Left nearly every socialist program that the Democrats could ever hope for. Why should the President bother to read the bill? The DNC got him elected and he owes them this one. And, what the 780 BILLION dollar bill didn't do, he is granting to his Handlers in the form of Executive Orders.

Socialized Health Care, Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Federally-funded abortion in foreign countries, expanded welfare entitlement programs and tax-hikes are just a few of the gifts that the Manchurian Candidate has granted his Masters (Nancy Pelosi & Harry Reid).

While your retirement investments have been slashed in half, Rahm Emmanual (who said you should never let a good crisis go to waste) has been wringing his hands in anticipation of all the power that can be wrestled from the hands of the American People in the name of "Recovery". They are in no hurry to resolve a crisis that has granted them so much license to spend your tax dollars however they want... and FAST!

So, is there any good news in all this? Yes. For decades (and maybe centuries), We the People have been growing increasingly complacent as the Federal Gov't. has nibbled away at our freedoms. The heat has been slowly turned up on the "frog in the dish" so that it won't notice that it is being cooked to death. But now, the burner is cranked up to HIGH and frogs (like me) are starting to jump out of the dish.

I intend to speak out. I intend to be heard. I intend to expose the truth and I intend to get involved.

I have long believed that conservative, principled people are the majority in America. But because they are (by nature) busy, productive and independent, they are invisible in the long shadow of a minority of liberals who's hobby, profession and religion is political activism.

Our freedoms are under siege. Our principles are being violated. And our faith is being attacked.

Jump out of the dish before it's too late.

Traitor or Patriot?

2009-03-03T15:43:00.000-08:00

You make the call...

I am seeing and hearing this same attitude almost daily.

"Tax Cut for 95% of Working Americans" NOT

2009-02-27T13:50:00.000-08:00

Is anyone paying attention, or have you all been "drinking the Kool-aid"?

Here's how a tax cut for working Americans making less that $250K per year works via "Obamanomics";

Effective April 1, 2009, you'll see up to $400 more per year in your "take-home" paycheck.

How? Employers will be receiving new charts to calculate Federal Withholding from your checks using the new "Obamanomics" guidelines. Great news, right? WRONG

The tables used to calculate the amount of tax OWED AT THE END OF THE YEAR WILL NOT CHANGE.

Adjust your exemptions now or owe more to the Fed. on April 15, 2010.
Of course, if you like to leave your money in the hands of Pelosi & Reid (interest free) year after year, you'll be fine. Enjoy your new-found wealth.

They'll get it back from you later.

So, you may be saying, Bush did the same thing last year, right? Yes. But he didn't call it a "Tax Cut". A tax cut means you get to keep more of YOUR MONEY. This shell game that our President is playing is designed to make it look like he kept his campaign promise.

The only promises he is planning on keeping are the ones he made to his base, The Left.

"Porkzilla" The Stimulus Bill

2009-02-04T09:11:00.000-08:00

This picture doesn't even come close to representing the amount of "pork" in the House Democrats' Stimulus Bill. The Senate is working on it today. I urge all of you to call your Senators and tell them what you think about "Frisbee Golf Parks", and the other similar ear-mark-type projects that make this bill stink to high heaven. In Washington State, your Pork-wranglers are Maria Cant(vote)well and Patty Murray. To contact Senator Maria Cantwell call 202-224-3441. To reach Senator Patty Murray call 202-224-2621.

Call them today and tell them to kill this pig!

A "More perfect Union"?

2009-01-23T16:12:00.000-08:00

Week-1: Abortions can be funded with American Tax-payer dollars (our dollars) in foreign countries and enemy combatants (spies/terrorists) will soon be brought to our soil and afforded the same rights that they are trying to destroy. Under the terms of the Geneva Convention, POW rights are only granted to enemy soldiers serving in uniform; those who disguise themselves as private citizens can be SHOT upon capture.
Make no mistake- this man is NOT the great unifier he claimed to be (unless you look forward to wearing drab khaki's and hoeing rows on a collective farm).
He was the second most liberal member of the U.S. Senate and he will be the most socialist President this nation's ever seen.
It's going to be a long 4 years.

I'm not sure I can stand it!

"Tissue Alert"

2009-01-22T07:53:00.000-08:00

On December 16, 2008, Lt. Kenneth H. Rose, USMC Navigator in World War II went to guard Heaven's gates after a lengthy illness. Kenny, as he was known to all of us in our church, was a large man both in life and spirit. He served in both the U.S. Army and the Marines and was a POW both in Germany and Japan. He was most proud of being a Marine. When our son joined the Corps six years ago, Kenny always referred to him as "my Marine".

Every time our son has been home he has made time to visit with Kenny even when we were not sure Kenny would know him. On those occasions he put on his Dress Blues knowing that Kenny would recognize the uniform if not the Marine.

At his Memorial Service this past Saturday, our son was given the distinct honor of presenting the American flag to Kenny's widow, Patti. There was so much Marine tradition in the Memorial that I cannot tell it all here. There is a local Ex- POW club here and they also had a small ceremony for Patti. Rolling Thunder was also present for their presentation.

The family held up well throughout the service but when Taps was played and Rob presented the flag, they began to shed their tears. The other two presentations were done when Kenny's urn was placed in his niche in the Columbarium after the service and that is when the tears really flowed.

Our son flew home from Norfolk, VA, just for the Memorial service at the request of Kenny's widow because, as she said, "Rob was always Kenny's Marine. You just had the privilege of raising him." Actually, my husband is a no longer active Marine Sgt. himself. I thank God every day for all of the Marines and other servicemen and women serving our Country, past, present and future. Thank you, one and all, for your service to our Country.

Mom and Wife of Marines

Sharon

Walking In The Spirit

2009-01-06T15:25:00.000-08:00

Have you ever tried to "walk in the Spirit" for a whole day? Have you attempted to "bring every thought captive" and abide in the Presence of Christ for 24 hours? If you have tried and were successful, please tell me more about it.

I tried to "pray without ceasing" yesterday and I don't think I even survived the Monday morning commute.

I read a great article over the weekend entitled, "Fallen From Grace" Thomas Gilson, were he first describes my spiritual condition; flat, aimless, loveless, dead.

Then he points out that the Galatians were in the same the boat. They were following the rules all right but they had "fallen from grace".

And the cure? Walk in the Spirit! Abide in Christ.

And now you know my focus for 2009; to learn live in the "Grace, By Which I Stand"

All "Buckle" & no "Horse" (for a while)

2008-12-02T11:07:00.000-08:00

Scroll up...

See that beautiful gold & chrome visor over "Chesty's" headlight? Well, it's not so beautiful anymore. And "Chesty's" front fender? It looks even worse. I didn't take any pictures. I'm not sure I would post them even if I had. I prefer to remember him in all his gleaming glory; not all bent and pathetic looking.

Without going into a whole lot of embarassing details, I offer the "following" advice (on following); Keep 4 seconds worth of distance between you and ANYTHING. And remember the Long, Long Trailer ("Trailer Brakes FIRST")? Well, on a motorcycle, it's FRONT BRAKE FIRST, FRONT BRAKE MOST. (The rear brake started the skid)

Chesty will be in the Harley hospital for the next couple months. For those of you unfamiliar with Marine Corps history, I named the bike after Lewis Burwell "Chesty" Puller (June 26, 1898 – October 11, 1971), the most decorated Marine in the history of the Marine Corps.

For an inspiring project, look him up on the web and read about his exploits in Korea at the Chosin Reservoir in the winter of 1950 (The Frozen Chosin).

In the mean time, I'll be "caging" it for the duration and looking in on my "wounded warrior" from time-to-time. I'm sure a broken nose wouldn't keep the real Chesty down for long; I hope my version proves to be as resilient as his namesake.

Dog suspected in Tillamook Bay shooting

2008-11-26T05:10:00.000-08:00

The following story appeared in the news on Monday. I wonder if the Lab had gone through a background check? Some believe drugs (kibbles) & alcohol (bits) may have been a factor.

Guns Don't Kill People; Dogs with Shotguns Unattended in Boats Kill People

By Associated Press
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) - A Tillamook man sustained a leg injury when his 12-gauge shotgun accidentally discharged during a duck-hunting trip on Tillamook Bay. The Oregon State Police says the man's dog is the prime suspect. Sgt. Todd Hoodenpyl says 23-year-old Matthew Markum and his younger brother were using an aluminum boat to go from land to their decoys Saturday morning. When the men left the boat, a shotgun blast put a hole in the side of the boat before striking Markum's leg. Hoodenpyl says the yellow Labrador had been on the boat and may have touched the gun. An ambulance took the injured hunter to a local hospital. He was later transferred to a Portland's Legacy Emanuel Hospital. The extent of Markum's injury has not been released.

I hear that the dog is refusing to cooperate with investigators, invoking his "right to remain silent".

Why's Thanksgiving so important?

2008-11-24T11:30:00.000-08:00

While watching a rather slow, sappy (but heart-warming) Hallmark movie last night, one line jumped out at me in particular. The little boy is asked by his Grandmother, "Why is Thanksgiving Dinner so important to you?". His reply was extremely poignant for an eight-year-old, "So I'll know we'll be all right."

In his mind, as long as the family could manage to put a traditional Thanksgiving feast on the table, they were going to make it. It didn't matter where it came from. He just knew that life would continue as it always had as long as the traditions were maintained.

Conversely, if Thanksgiving Day was just another meal of boiled cabbage ( or potatos, etc.) it could mean that they were still on the slippery slope of poverty and things could get much worse.

Keeping in mind that the young character in our movie was always thinking about food, you can see how he came to his conclusion.

But try this thought on for size and see how it fits, "Thankgiving (thankfulness) for our blessings, reminds us that we will be all right." We can have greater hope for the future when we are thankful for God's provision in the past and the present.

Matt 6:25 "For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life, {as to} what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, {as to} what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?26 "Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and {yet} your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they? (NAU)

Going through the "Change"

2008-11-17T12:12:00.000-08:00

Who would have thought that becoming a grandparent would have such a profound affect on one's perspective of what is really important in life? A prime example of the paradigm shift I am observing happened just yesterday.

First, a casual comment by Mrs. WingMaster somehow turned into an excuse to brave 60 miles of freeway in 50 deg weather just to see our newest grandson, Brayden. The comment was, "We really ought to get in another motorcycle ride before the weather gets too nasty." Great! I start looking for the opportunity. When one presents itself (a Sunday with no rain in the forecast), I suggest a possible destination. The answer comes back,"If I'm gonna' get on that bike and freeze my anterior off, I wanna' see my grandson!" OK, a "win-win" situation for both of us. We don the leather and head north.

We arrive about an hour-&-a-half later to snuggle our youngest bundle of joy who is a little less than joyful due to the fact that he hasn't had a bowel movement in over 3 DAYS! I must admit that I would be a little cranky, too if I were him.

Needless-to-say, the rest of the visit is spent coaxing Brayden to "Fill that diaper" so he would feel better, but to no avail. Even the maternal grandparents are on alert and call in periodically to get a "regularity report" on the poor little guy.
Several fussy hours later after a feeding session, the air is split by the sound we have all been waiting for. A "hush" falls over the room as all eyes turn toward the source of the sound. Could it be? Has the spell been broken?

Praise be to God! Brayden has cut loose with the diaper from H#$%! Not once, but TWICE! High-fives, congratulations and squeals of joy break forth to commemorate the blessed event. Mom & Grandma spring into action like a couple of highly trained EMT's at a car-accident scene. Changing pads and diaper wipes were flying around like bandages and stethescopes and Dad (no lie) gets out his high-tech cell phone and takes pictures of the fouled disposable seat-cover (diaper) so he can forward them to the anxious grandparents who have been waiting on pins-and-needles for news from the nether-regions.
Finally, the boy is happy! He's smiling and cooing at everyone and the relief on his face is obvious to all.
I can't remember the last time a dirty diaper garnered so much attention and celebration. That kind of anticipation and merriment used to be reserved for sporting events and Presidential Elections.
Honestly, I haven't seen that much excitement since the Seahawks made it to the Superbowl.

My, how things change.

Veteran's Day Tribute

2008-11-11T16:10:00.000-08:00

The Best Definition of a Veteran I have ever heard...
"A veteran is someone who, at one point in his life wrote a blank check Made payable to "The United States of America" for an amount of "up to and including my life". That is Honor, and there are way too many people in This country who no longer understand it.

And Now The Story...

I just wanted to get the day over with and....go down to Smokey's for a few cold ones. Sneaking a look at my watch, I saw the time, 1655. Five minutes to go before the cemetery gates are closed for the day. Full dress was hot in the August sun. Oklahoma summertime was as bad as ever... the heat and humidity at the same level... both too high.

I saw the car pull into the drive, '69 or '70 model Cadillac Deville, looked factory-new. It pulled into the parking lot at a snail's pace. An old woman got out so slow I thought she was paralyzed. She had a cane and a sheaf of flowers, about four or five bunches as best I could tell. I couldn't help myself. The thought came unwanted, and left a slightly bitter taste: 'She's going to spend an hour, and for this old soldier...my hip hurts like hell and I'm ready to get out of here right now!'

But for this day my duty was to assist anyone coming in. Kevin would lock the 'In' gate and if...I could just hurry the old biddy along, we might make the last half of happy hour at Smokey's. I broke Post Attention. My hip made gritty noises when I took the first step and the pain went up a notch. I must have made a real military sight; middle-aged man with a small pot-gut and half a limp, in Full Dress Uniform, which had lost its razor crease about 30 minutes after I began the watch...at the cemetery.

I stopped in front of her, halfway up the walk. She looked up at me with an old woman's squint. 'Ma'am may I assist you in any way?' She took long enough to answer. 'Yes, son. Can you carry these flowers? I seem to be moving a tad slow these days.' 'My pleasure Ma'am.' Well, it wasn't too much of a lie. She looked again. 'Soldier, where were you stationed?' ' Vietnam , Ma'am. Ground-pounder. '69 to '71.' She looked at me closer. 'Wounded in action, I see. Well done, I'll be as quick as I can.'

I lied a little bigger, 'No hurry, Ma'am.' She smiled....and winked at me. 'Son, I'm 85-years old and I can tell a lie from a long way off. Let's get this done, might be the last time I can do this. My name's Joanne Wieserman, and I've a few Soldiers I'd like to see one more time.' 'Yes, Ma'am, At your service.' She headed for the World War I section, stopping at a stone. She picked one of the bunches out of my arm and laid it on top of the stone. She murmured something I couldn't quite make out.

The name on the marble was; Donald S. Davidson, US Army, France 1918. She turned away and made a straight line for the World War II section, stopping at one stone. I saw a tear slowly tracking its way down her cheek. She put a bunch on a stone; the name was; Stephen X. Davidson, US Navy, 1943. She went up the row a ways and laid another bunch on a stone; Stanley J. Wieserman, US Army, 1944. She paused for a second, 'Two more, son, and we'll be done.' I almost didn't say anything, but, 'Yes, Ma'am, Take your time.'

She looked confused. 'Where's the Vietnam section, son? I seem to have lost my way.' I pointed with my chin. 'That way, Ma'am.' 'Oh!' she chuckled quietly. 'Son, me and old age ain't too friendly.' She headed down the walk I'd pointed at. She stopped at a couple of stones before she found the ones she wanted. She placed a bunch on Larry Wieserman, USMC, 1968, and the last one on Darrel Wieserman, US Air Force, 1970. She stood there and murmured a few words.....I still couldn't make out.

'OK,son, I'm finished. Get me back to my car and you can go home.' 'Yes, Ma'am. If I may ask, were those your kinfolk?' She paused. 'Yes, Donald Davidson was my father; Stephen was my uncle; Stanley was my husband; Larry and Darrel were our sons. All killed in action.' She stopped, whether she had finished, or couldn't finish, I just don't know. She made her way to her car, slowly, and painfully. I waited for a polite distance to come between us...and then double-timed it over to Kevin waiting by the car.

'Get to the 'Out'-gate QUICK!, I have something I've JUST got to do.' Kevin started to say something, but saw the look I gave him. He broke the rules to get us there down the service road. We beat her. She hadn't made it around the rotunda yet. 'Kevin.......... stand to attention next to the gate post. Follow my lead.' I humped it across the drive to the other post. When the Cadillac came puttering around from the hedges and began the short straight traverse to the gate, I called in my best sergeant's voice: 'TehenHut! Present Haaaarms!' I have to hand it to Kevin, he never blinked an eye; full dress attention and a salute that would make his DI proud.

She drove through that gate with two old worn-out soldiers giving her a send off she deserved, for service rendered to her country, and for knowing Duty, Honor and Sacrifice I am not quite sure, but I think I saw....a BIG salute returned from that Cadillac! Instead of 'The End'....just think of 'Taps'. Please let me share a favorite prayer: 'Lord, keep our servicemen and women safe, whether they serve at home or overseas. Hold them in Your loving hands and protect them as they protect us.'

Let's all keep those currently serving and those who have gone before, in our thoughts. They are the reason for the many freedoms we enjoy. 'In God We Trust!' Duty, Honor, Country, Sacrifice...Semper Fi.

Sorry about your monitor,
it made mine blurry too...

Hope & Change (Part 1)

2008-11-11T11:58:00.000-08:00

“Where are you taking me and What am I doing in this hand-basket?” This is the question that comes to mind when I reflect on the events in our nation over the past few months. The stock market, the real estate market, the supermarket and the “Free” Market all cause me to fear for the future of our freedom and our way of life. It is so easy to get caught up in call to “rally around the cause” to protect our freedoms and exercise our rights. When we “win” we feel that we have advanced the cause of Righteousness. But when we lose, fear and hopelessness creeps in and begins its process of paralysis. Family of God, this ought not to be the case for us! Our hope is secure in Christ!
Luke 21:25 "There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay among nations, in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves,
26 men fainting from fear and the expectation of the things which are coming upon the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.
27 "Then they will see THE SON OF MAN COMING IN A CLOUD with power and great glory.
28 "But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near." (NAU)

If I’ve learned one thing this year it is this, “Hope and Change” are what men seek. They don’t even have to be clearly defined. It is not surprising, when you think about it. The world is hopeless without Christ. “Life’s a @#$% and then you die”. And “change” always sells because we are never satisfied with what we have. So, if you are hopelessly dissatisfied with your life, “hope and change” will entice you to ignore your values and principles in favor of the promise of something more, something better. But if you know Christ…. (to be continued)

Happy 233rd Birthday, USMC

2008-11-10T16:28:00.000-08:00

I'm NOT alone...

2008-11-06T16:12:00.000-08:00

Do you know the legend of the Cherokee Indian youth's rite of passage? His father takes him into the forest, blindfolds him and leaves him alone. He is required to sit on a stump the whole night and not remove the blindfold until the rays of the morning sun shine through it. He cannot cry out for help to anyone. Once he survives the night, he is a MAN. He cannot tell the other boys of this experience because each lad must come into manhood on his own. The boy is naturally terrified. He can hear all kinds of noises. Wild beasts must surely be all around him. Maybe even some human might do him harm. The wind blew the grass and earth, and shook his stump, but he sat stoically, never removing the blindfold. It would be the only way he could become a man! Finally, after a horrific night, the sun appeared and he removed his blindfold. It was then that he discovered his father sitting on the stump next to him. He had been at watch the entire night, protecting his son from harm. We, too, are never alone. Even when we don't know it, our Heavenly Father is watching over us, sitting on the stump beside us. When trouble comes, all we have to do is reach out to Him.
Moral of the Story: Just because you can't see God, doesn't mean He is not there 'For we walk by faith, not by sight.' ~ 2 Corinthians 5:7 ~

Clinging to Guns and Religion (But Not Bitter)

2008-10-18T09:00:00.001-07:00

It's not just those rednecks out in W. Pennsylvania who cling to their guns and religion. Many of us out here on the "Left Coast" like to PRAISE THE LORD AND PASS THE AMMUNITION. In fact, my idea of diversity is owning several different firearms and handling each one with precision and accuracy. I would like to explain my reasons why guns and religion are so important to me.

In June of 1980, I stood in a room with 15-20 other young long-haired, out-of-shape, self-centered teenagers and repeated the following words;

"I, Steve Fryer, do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God." (see Psalm 144:1)

On that day, I agreed to be willing to die in defence of this great nation, her freedoms and the people who enjoy them. (Of course, the Marines taught me that it's better to stay alive for your country and let the enemy die for his) I don't see an "expiration date" anywhere in my oath. Therefore, I continue to exercise my Second Amendment responsibility to keep and bear arms "against all enemies, foreign and domestic".

RELIGION

In April of 1971, I stood with an even more diverse group; young, old, middle-class and poor. It was in a local church that had a heart and a vision for leading lost souls to Christ. I realized, that day, that I was separated from God because of my sins. But God loved me so much that He sent Jesus, His only son, to die for me and pay the penalty for my sins. Jesus died to save us from the enemy and set us free.

In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,
With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me:
As He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free,
While God is marching on. Lyrics by Julia Ward Howe in November 1861

I cling to my guns because I took an oath to defend this country for the rest of my natural life.

I cling to Jesus Christ because he died to give me ETERNAL LIFE.

Any questions?

The Jones Gang

2008-10-04T08:06:00.001-07:00

Two weeks ago, we were blessed to be able to fly (not ride) down to Camp Pendleton, CA (home of the 1st Marine Division) to visit Mike & Carol and our 2 grandchildren, Matthew and Ava.

Matthew has more horsepower than a Harley V-Rod and runs virtually all day long (stopping only to eat and nap). He loves the "Jungle Book" movie and climbing on EVERYTHING. (Hmm, wonder where he gets the idea?)
Ava has that twinkle in her eye that just melts Grandpa's heart every time he see it. And, no, I didn't dress her in the bib; that was her Grandmother's idea!
One visit is not enough. We're working on plans for a warm, California Christmas!

The latest member of our "Gang"

2008-09-30T10:45:00.000-07:00

Here he is; Brayden William Fryer, our most recent little "biker dude". I haven't met him in person yet, but he's awfully cute, don't you think? We're having the Harley fitted for a custom infant seat (don't tell Hillarie). We get to see him in a few hours. ;-)

Brayden's Out!

2008-09-29T16:44:00.001-07:00

Brayden arrived via scheduled "C" section this afternoon at 3:03 PM. He weighed 9 lbs, 1/2 oz. and measures 20 1/4" inches long. Mother and son are doing well. More info when it is available.

Stop and Smell the Roses

2008-09-07T07:57:00.000-07:00

As promised, this post is going to feature some of the flowers that have been blooming around here (as well as the Grandchildren they were planted for).

Matthew

Ava

"Spoonin' with Daddy"

And just in case you're wondering what we'll be doing on this warm, late-summer afternoon in the sunshine....

See ya'.....

"Brayden Watch"

2008-09-03T14:00:00.000-07:00

With only 24 days until the "much anticipated" arrival of Brayden William Fryer (23 days and a "wake-up"), it's time to start Brayden-Watch. While we are all excited to meet the latest little Fryer, no one is more ready than the latest "Mrs. Fryer" who has endured many physical trials, changes and involuntary diet modifications over the past few months. "Way-to-Go" Hillarie! Now you're down to the final count-down.

Several months ago, Mrs. WingMaster purchased and planted a special little rose bush for each of the grandchildren.

Who would have guessed that Brayden's rose would be the first to bloom? Hopefully, it's a sign that he'll arrive on time (or even a little early). I know that Hillarie's ready!

Needing a "Tune-up"

2008-08-05T13:01:00.000-07:00

Keeping up this blog is more time-consuming than I anticipated. I find that I like the activities that would make good "copy" (Dinner with friends, Ride to Cabela's, Firewood-cutting parties, etc.) but taking pictures everywhere I go and writing about the adventures leaves me with a long list of "should-have's" and not a lot of interesting reading. GRrrrrrrr.

Speaking of reading; when am I going to find time to read? I have shelves full of good books and more coming in from several directions. My carnivorous friend here looks like I feel, sometimes. I think it's time for some solitude.

Wanna' Get Away?

2008-07-30T13:19:00.000-07:00

Apparently, Matt Mladin wanted to send a message to Toby (the amature) Mark on Saturday at the Seattle 100. The bike-cam (and the shame) belong to Toby. The "wheely" Matt rides as he blows past our hero like he was a fire hydrant sort of says it all.

Coming Soon...

2008-07-30T11:51:00.001-07:00

Watch for a post that features some of the beautiful flowers that Mrs. Wingmaster has been cultivating in the yard. Even though this blog is titled, "Life On The Road", you gotta' stop and smell the roses. ;-)

Meet My "Ex-"

2008-07-29T07:41:00.000-07:00

My Ford Ex-pedition, that is; fondly referred to as the "Long-Range Pheasant Assault Vehicle (LRPA for short). LeRPA has been feeling sorely neglected for the past few months. It seems that his thirsty 5.4 liter Triton V-8 (13.5 mpg) just can't compete with the throaty rumble of an 88 cubic in. V-Twin Harley with Sequential Port Fuel Injection, Stage 1 Fuel Mapping, 2-into-1 Hooker exhaust and and lean 40+ mpg in the Big City!

Now that all you ladies have slipped into a catatonic state, induced by male technical gobble-d-geek, let me get to the point.

Today is the first day in many weeks that I have driven my "Ex" to work. The rain in today's forecast, coupled with the fact that I was riding almost as many hours this week-end as I was awake, prompted me to leave the bike in the garage and fire up the LeRPA. I had to turn it over last night just to make sure it would start. It was then that I realized that (since the end of March) I have put almost 3-times more miles on the Harley than on the LeRPA. At an average of less than 500 miles per month, My old "Ex" just might last a few more years. But then again, Pheasant Season opens soon!

My Heros Have Always Been...

2008-07-27T10:54:00.000-07:00

AMA Superbike Champions?

Do you know who this is? It's non-other than Matt Mladin, 6-time AMA SuperBike Champion and featured guest celeb of the Seattle 100, a motorcycle lap-a-thon that I had the privilege of attending Saturday as a member of "Team Toby". (More on Toby Later).

A couple of weeks ago, I couldn't tell you what AMA stood for, let alone who Matt Mladin is. Needless to say, Matt has achieved "Rockstar" status in the motorcycle road-racing world. Toby was thrilled and honored to be on the same track with him. (That's Toby below)

I guess it would be like me getting to sit in on a jam-session with The Eagles back-stage at some concert. Yeah, I'd feel terribly out-classed, but who cares?

Kinda' gets you thinking about who we put on a pedestal. How long will that individual (or group) be on top? Will you always be proud of their accomplishments, conduct and lifestyle? Are they "real" people, or just arrogant snobs who think they're "something"? (Mladin seemed to be a very nice Aussie with a humble demeanor) He's a family man who rides a 200 hp crotch-rocket, owns & flies 5 airplanes, and doesn't have a problem drawing a crowd at a racetrack. But if you were like me at the beginning of this blog, he'd just be another guy in a t-shirt and expensive sunglasses.

The only true hero worthy of lasting worship didn't fly a plane or ride a bike that cost more than most of us make in a year (or two).

He wore linen instead of leathers, rode a donkey into town and split history in half (BC-AD). He flew without the aid of thrust, velocity or lift and He changed my life forever.

I can't wait to get my picture taken with Him face-to-face!

2008-07-25T05:05:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, sharing the burdens of others lightens the heart of the burden-bearer and the one who's sharing the load.

But then there are those burdens that weigh heavily on the bearer and also on he who would help shoulder them.

I have shouldered such a load with a brother; may our Father give us wisdom, strength and endurance for this road looks long and rough with no rest-stops in site.

I Miss My Grandkids and My Daughter!

2008-07-24T07:45:00.000-07:00

What more can I say? I miss my Grandkids! They are in CA and we're up here, 1200 miles away. It's a lousey (sp?) arrangement. Carol, Mike, Matt & Ava- I love you. Hope to see you soon!

Late For Work

2008-07-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

OK, it's open- My web-log. Took nearly an hour and now I'm in danger of being late for work. We'll see if I really take the time to keep it updated (or if I really have anything blog-worthy to say). Kick-stand, up~ Let's Ride!