The Laughing Wolf

Excuse Me, What Is More Important?

The marginality and political bias of the 9-11 Commission has just been proven beyond all doubt for me by the behavior of two members. After all the wailing, complaining, and outright tantrums to get unprecedented access to the President, two members – one of whom I seem to remember was a chief complainer – chose to walk out on the meeting because they had more important things to do. The overweening arrogance and lack of judgment this shows is staggering. I will never take those two seriously on any issue ever again, and I am more convinced than ever that nothing of any substance can come from this farce.

LW

A Fun Memory Of Mom

I’ve been watching Band of Brothers, that excellent series, on the History Channel. The series has brought back a lot of good memories for me, from the first episode which is set in Toccoa, Georgia, which is not too far from where I spent a nice portion of my youth, to The Eagle’s Nest in the last couple. I had the chance to visit that area when I was young, and it ended up giving me a memory of my Mom that still makes me laugh.

Spirit of America

With just a little ways to go to meet the goal, the challenge has taken a new twist. The time is being extended a day, and all the groups are banding together to break the $50,000.00 mark. So, go give what you can to a worthy cause. Give the Marines what they need to win the peace as well as the war, and to do your part to fight the War on Terror.

To make it interesting, the first five people to show me that they have donated $50.00 or more today will each receive one signed and numbered print:

The time/date stamp of the e-mail bearing the proof will determine who gets a print. Others are putting up things, so go check it all out and do your part.

LW

Posting Will Be Light

Some good things have come up in my life, but they will be pulling me away from the keyboard for a week or so. I will post what I can, when I can, but things may be even lighter than they have been since the surgery. Check out all the good people on the blogroll, and be safe.

LW

Commercial Space Roundup

Courtesy of the surgery and such, I am way behind on this important issue. However, all is not lost as Rocket Forge and Transterrestrial Musings are on the case. More importantly, they got to attend the conference. What conference, you ask? Just one of the most important ones for true space exploration and exploitation. What, you still say? Get thee hence, I say, and go to those sites to read posts and find out just what it is I am talking about. Belated congratulations to the Scaled Composites team and to the team at XCOR as well.

LW

A Well Seasoned Post

Sgt. Hook has hit the big 4-0, and celebrates with a spicy and delicious birthday post. Go read it, and find out why this man is one of the best writers out there today.

LW

Spirit of America

For the latest Sitrep, go here. For just the plain latest, go here. Da Goddess is posting some “Whys” behind the issue from participants. Get thee hence and make a donation so that the Marines can do what is needed to help truly win the peace.

LW

Taking Chance Home

Blackfive has a story you need to read. Get kleenex, and go read it.

LW

Puff in Fallujah, Explosions In Damascus

At least one Spectre gunship is hitting targets in Fallujah, and there is other activity apparently underway. Meantime, there are now reports of explosions and gunfire in the diplomatic area of Damascus, Syria. No details yet, and it may be a while before clear pictures emerge from either, but stay tuned.

LW

Spirit Of America

Well, I was going to do up a fancy spiel and a good list, but Teresa has beaten me to it. Go check it out, and go donate to this worthwhile – and extremely important – cause.

LW

UPDATE: An easy way to get some money for the team! Here is my link to get a donation.

Why Does Everybody Assume

That I am going to try to push too hard, too fast, on my recovery? You would think that my ortho had known me for years: I got a lecture this morning. It was the two week plus check-up, and all goes well. Mobility is returning, pain and discomfort are down, and the future looks very bright. It is also time to start some serious physical therapy. Yet, before I was given my instructions, I got a lecture. Don’t do weights. Don’t do more than directed. Don’t push. The inflammation was/is severe, and overdoing things will make it worse, not better, and we can and will end up at Day 1 again.

Message received, and I really am trying to be good. So, to all my friends and doctors out there, please put down the rolled up newspapers and take a step back. I am trying to be good.

Of course, I say this after going back to the gym yesterday for a light cardio workout. I was going to do just a short time (5 minutes) on the elliptical trainer, slow pace, etc. It started out that way: I used my normal program in the same mode as the last time, and tried going about 100 paces a minute, but wasn’t surprised that 120 was more comfortable. I was less worried about pace than I was being sure I did not hold on with and put any weight on the right arm. I didn’t, and will have to admit I did the full cycle and ended up doing more than half of it at 150+ strides a minute. Great cardio, and felt good to be back. I then took a short break, and got on the treadmill. Had some problems recently with shin splints, and needed to check my shoes. Sure enough, different shoes and no shin splints – which means I’ve somehow managed to break the spine of my good workout shoes – and things felt so good I ended up doing two miles at 3.5 MPH and 4 percent elevation. Shoulder felt the movement, but did well. I felt great, and am looking forward to tomorrow morning.

Serious physical therapy begins tomorrow morning, and will be done three times a day from here on out. Turns out I had been doing some of the previous wrong, but part of that was an absence of written instructions. Not wrong as in wrong thing, but it seems I was doing more than I should have. That will be corrected, and everything done to the T. The incentive is that in six months I may be able to go back to doing fun things, like hiking, shooting, and even – maybe – Aikido. That gives me a very powerful impetus to do things as the doctor orders. Meantime, I am learning how to do a lot of things left handed, from rotating a mattress and changing sheets to cooking. Plan to add some left handed pistol work to the mix in a couple of weeks. Love that one of the physical therapy exercises is essentially punching, and they have no problem with me doing proper Aikido punches. Figure a few thousand times over the next few months will allow me to improve my form a bit.

Meantime, I really will try to be good. Honest. Borzoi, why do you still have that rolled up newspaper in your hand?

LW

Sgt. Hook Hits The Big 4-0

Today is Sgt. Hook’s Birthday! Tammi has put together a card for him, and it is not too late to go sign it. Go, and wish him a Happy Birthday while he serves us all in the Stan.

Happy Birthday Top! May it be a great day to start a great year, with many happy returns.

LW

Book Review: Give Me A Break

A very kind fellow blogger and reader sent me a copy of John Stossel’s book to peruse during my recovery. I waited until after I was no longer the great stoned wolf to do so, and am glad I did. The book is a must read for any interested in Old Media, bias, and more. Mr. Stossel details his history well, and the tale of his “conversion” is a good one. He raises many points that are well worth pondering, and has turned me on to some new reading material in the process. The book is an easy read, and enjoyable so long as you keep your blood pressure in check, and there are many points where it will rise in any thinking person. It is well worth the time to read, and I hope you will do so.

LW

Spirit of America

Nothing shows the critical need for the work being done by the Spirit of America than the news this morning. So get out and do your part. Donate. Help win hearts and minds so that our troops, our country, and the world will be a safer and better place. Go check out the multitude of incentives being offered by Citizen Smash, Tammi, Da Goddess and others. So, get on over to the Castle and take part.

LW

Fighting In Fallujah

The Marines have been attacked yet again and have called in air support to help deal with some of it. From reports, they appear to be dealing with the situation, unlike the politicians.

There is a very real danger of winning the battle and loosing the war here. The message being sent is that the old playbook is back: endless negotiations, unrealistic restraints on the military, and cut and run. The failure of the CPA and the government to deal with this situation is encouraging other so-called insurgents elsewhere to do the same thing; to go for hostages; to entrench and fortify so that rooting them out will be bloody and expensive.

Mr. President, Mr. Bremmer: Quit letting your people muck around. It is making the situation much worse, and ultimately much more expensive to the country. There are many reports (go search Cardinal Puppilieu as just one place to start) of clear problems with the CPA, and Fallujah may well be the prime example. Fix the problem, and let the Marines fix the situation in Fallujah before it gets beyond redemption.

LW

Spirit of America

The ante is really being upped to get you to take part in this worthy cause. Citizen Smash is offering up his dirty laundry; Tammi has prepared a wonderful time for you between the sheets; and, now Da Goddess is offering something to make the experience even more memorable. So, get on over to the Castle and take part. A massive hearts, mind, and education offensive is needed, so let’s make it happen.

LW

Go Check Out The Relaunch Of Animotions

I had wondered what was keeping Ironbear so tied up lately, and now I know. He has been busy with the revamp and relaunch of Animotions, a Comics, Gaming, and 3-D Industry web site. What I have seen of it looks interesting and well done; however, I invite you to go check it out for yourself and provide feedback/constructive criticism so that the site can continue to improve.

LW

Welcome To Food For Thought Saturday

Saturday at the Laughing Wolf is a day for good news and food for thought. This got started because of my Blogfather, Joe Katzman, and his good-news-only posts on Saturday. While we will post other news if it is needed, our hope is to keep Saturday’s a fun day, a philosophical day as much as we can. So, enjoy the food for thought, and while you are at it, go check out Sufi Wisdom at Winds of Change, food for thought at Who Tends The Fires and at Right Thoughts, and the Saturday question of the day at Road Warrior Rules for Survival. Enjoy your day.

LW

Spirit of America

This worthy effort continues, and I urge you to go to the Castle and take part. Citizen Smash is offering all sorts of incentives, and Tammi has even joined in on that with a unique between the sheets offer. Take the time, and help make a difference.

LW

Take Time For What Is Truly Important

Today’s food for thought post is inspired by and dedicated to my Blogfather, Joe Katzman, who has got his priorities straight. It is easy to get wrapped up in work, free ice cream, and other demands placed on your life by others. Take the time to keep firmly in mind what is truly important and make the time for it, even if it means telling others, most especially those who would use you, where to get off. Think on it a bit, and decide if you are putting your time in on what is truly important to you, or to that which is truly important to others.

LW

The Consequences Of Blogging?

I just got an interesting letter from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama. My COBRA coverage with them is about to expire, so after talking with the BCBS rep I applied for a new policy with them through another agency. This policy was not anywhere near as nice, and specifically excluded pre-existing conditions.

Today, I get a letter from the same person that made the routine inquiries about my shoulder, and to whom I responded, stating that the new coverage was declined. I am going to look into other options, but have to wonder if my previous response was a factor in my denial. I am preparing a response, but may have to run it by legal counsel before I send it and post it here. For those interested, here is today’s letter.

Go Read This

Now. No backtalk, no procrastination, just go read it now. Damn, I wish Dad were around to read this, the cranky old Marine. M'am, I salute you, and thank you for saying what you said, and doing the job so well. Share this with as many people as you can.

LW

Pat Tillman, RIP

NFL star Pat Tillman, who gave up sports and turned down millions of dollars as a pro football player to join the military and then the Rangers, has been killed in the line of duty in the Stan. He was killed, and two other members of his unit wounded, during operations near the Pakistani border. May the light shine on him and his family, and on his teammates and their families as well.

LW

UPDATE: Go read Sgt. Hook: Sgt Tillman is a hero not because he walked away from the Cardinals, but because of where he walked to. He like all the rest of the Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, and Coastguardsmen volunteered to put himself between the bad guys and our way of life and fight for its preservation. Rest In Peace Sgt Tillman, your service to our nation is an inspiration and you will not be forgotten. Sgt Hook out.

Surgery + 2 Weeks

And all continues to go extremely well. I will state again that I have been incredibly lucky with this, both in terms of how little damage was done given how long I waited, and in terms of how fast I am recovering. Physical Therapy is not too bad, worst part in some ways has been finding the best time to do it – trust me when I say late in the day is not conducive to a good night’s sleep. Take a lesson from me: if you have a problem or suspect a problem, don’t wait but go now to get it checked out. I appreciate your patience during this period of slow blogging, and hope that thing will improve on this front soon as well.

LW

Spirit Of America

I am late to the fray, but strongly suggest that you go to Castle Argghhh! and donate as much as you can to this worthy effort. If you just have to have something in it for you, go visit Citizen Smash who is offering some excellent inducements to take part. We can and we will win, but it will take all of us doing our part, and a lot of programs like this, to achieve victory. Do your part.

LW

A Clarification and Amplification

In this post below, Sapper Mike makes some good points that apply to both the Honduran and Dominican troops. In this post, Teresa also makes a good point. Both remind me that I have failed to make one thing clear: this is not a reflection on the military involved. The Spanish military have done an outstanding job, from intercepting an arms shipment (that had to be let go, alas) on the high seas to damned fine work on the ground. I have no doubt that the Dominican and Honduran troops working with them worked to similar high standards.

The problem lies not with them, but with their governments. It is their governments who are craven oathbreakers, who have used the pullout to play on the international stage, and who have done other unsavory things. It was not the troops, and I in no way meant to imply that it was.

LW

By George, I Think He’s Got It

Prince Bandar, that is. His statement that he and his government were aware of “the seasonal tribal warfare” underway is the best summation of the current election cycle I’ve heard.

LW

Severe Weather

Keep the people of Utica, Illinois in your thoughts and prayers today. Given that we are now into peak severe weather season, how are your emergency kits? Got flashlights and fresh batteries? Checked that weather radio? Have you made your preparations?

LW

Rough, But No Surprise In Middle East

The so-called “insurgents” are back to old tricks this morning after finding out that it does not pay to take on the Marines. Coordinated car bombs went off in Iraq targeting police stations. Another car bomb has detonated in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia targeting – apparently – the (a?) general security building. None of this is unexpected, though you might not get that from some of the Old Media coverage. A Danish businessman who was kidnapped has been murdered by his captors and his body found. I would also note that appeasement did not help the Spanish, Dominican, and Honduran military as their base was hit by mortar fire last night. On Fox this morning, at least, there was coverage of the Iranian connection to all of this, and some discussion of oil for food scandal and a hint of oil for terrorism. Stay tuned, things may happen fast over there in the next few days.

LW

A Point Of No Small Consideration

Here. By Baldilocks, of course. Read it, and think.

LW

Cox and Forkum Nail It

As usual. While I choose to mention the name of the Baron, er, the floating fat man, as little as possible, I will point to this wonderful comic that nails it in one. Great job guys, as always.

LW

Some Strong Food For Thought

Strong in the sense of flavor, of things being very off. Not in terms of the blogging, for what Teresa has put forward is quite good. The strong comes from the story behind, from what some are trying to do. Beware anyone and everyone who says “If you are innocent you have nothing to fear.” They never have your best interests in mind.

LW

When The Next Attack Occurs

I’ve said it before, and I am not alone in saying it, but the fact is that the U.S. is going to get hit again by terrorists. The only questions that exist are when and what type of attack?

I see some obvious times to consider, such as July 4 or a week before the elections, and have given some thought to some sort of dead pool-type thing. Yet, while tempting, it would tend to draw away from the more important questions and issues that will result from said attack.

Honduras

I am not going to take part in the frenzy of coward calling and such that is probably sweeping the blogosphere this morning. The Honduran troops were serving under the Spanish, and there are a number of considerations here that mitigate the action. With the withdrawal of the Spanish, it does present Honduras with a number of problems. So, I will not call them cowards or such this morning. What I will call them is oath breakers. They took up an obligation and pledged themselves and their honor to something more than the Spanish, and they have failed of that obligation.

LW

The “Yoo Hoo, Shoot Me” Award Of The Week

Goes to Thailand, who just guaranteed that their troops will be attacked by putting targets on each and every one. The comments by the Thai government have to rate being upon some of the most thoughtless, ill-considered, ill-conceived, and ignorant of modern time. If I were one of their troops, I would be wanting to have a little word with the person or people who would so callously condemn me, for that is exactly what was done. One hopes for an outbreak of sanity in response to this, but I am not going to hold my breath.

LW

And Yet More

Police in England have conducted one or more terror raids overnight, and you can get some good coverage of it here at Sky News. While Manchester seems to be getting all the publicity now, there appears to be more afoot here. Keep an eye on this ongoing saga.

LW

And Yet More Good News

The Cul-de-Sac is back! Go check it out now. And send wishes for good health towards Kelley as well.

LW

Good News To Start The Week

My friend Waldo let me know that Farscape will be making at least a limited return to television. Pity that it is not more, yet my hope is that the response will be such that Henson can find someone to pick it up and run with it, on television or on the big screen.

LW

Definitely A Guy’s Guy

The day of my surgery proved it beyond all doubt. I am home, a wonderful friend has helped me set up my lair in the recliner, and I am fading in and out on medication with my left hand firmly clenched around the most important thing in the world. It was not the phone to summon help. It was not a medication dispenser. It was not a pistol or other form of firearm. It was not any form of weapon or food. No, the thing clutched in my hand so carefully was the TV remote, as if I were scared that the mouse would reappear and try to wrest it from my control. Yep, definitely a guy.

LW

Pick Your Recliner With Care

Just a quick thought for all of you out there who may be contemplating a recliner or a new recliner. Pick it with care. Because of the shoulder surgery I spent a week sleeping/living in mine, and I really wish I had gotten a new one a couple of years ago. It was not a bad chair, just not a really good one for sleeping and such. I now have a list of considerations, including ambidextrous controls, for my next recliner. While I hope it is never needed for such an office, it is not a bad idea at all to purchase it with such use in mind.

LW
glad to be sleeping in a bed again…

Rantisi

Well, Israel has shown that it was serious about taking out the leaders of terrorist organizations. Rantisi was not an easy target, and the fact that they did get him speaks volumes and raises some interesting possibilities. The usual suspects are condemning Israel for it, led by France. Poor France, it is so hard finding and keeping dictators and thugs with whom to be friendly. So much so that it has to turn to China as an ally in its war against America, but then again playing bully against a small island with the help of the biggest kid in the neighborhood is about their speed… In the Middle East, there are already desperate calls to restart the Mid-East Peace Process, especially since there will soon be a de-facto two-state solution in place that will negate all else. A two-state solution that does not guarantee Israel’s demise, but rather its survival, which I suspect is the main reason for the intense opposition to it. Expect the usual bluster and thunder for the next few days…

LW

A Reminder On Consumer Affairs

Be sure that what you have is what you really think you have. Last September, I changed over to T-Mobile service on my cell phone and have generally been happy with it. The coverage area is not nearly as good as some, but the service I have gotten, both general and customer has been fairly good. Until yesterday, that is.

Dru Sjodin “Is Home”

While some may disagree, I feel that posting the news of finding the body of missing student Dru Sjodin does not break the spirit of the intent of this day. Few of those who have never had someone missing will ever understand, but as sad as this day is for her family, it is indeed good news for them. They have an answer, hard as it is, and her body is coming home to them. May the light shine on her family and friends in the days ahead, guide them, and keep them. Take a moment to keep them, and her, in your thoughts.

LW

Welcome To Food For Thought Saturday

Saturday at the Laughing Wolf is a day for good news and food for thought. This got started because of my Blogfather, Joe Katzman, and his good-news-only posts on Saturday. While we will post other news if it is needed, our hope is to keep Saturday’s a fun day, a philosophical day as much as we can. So, enjoy the food for thought, and while you are at it, go check out Sufi Wisdom at Winds of Change, food for thought at Who Tends The Fires and at Right Thoughts, and the Saturday question of the day at Road Warrior Rules for Survival. Enjoy your day.

LW

Some Food For Thought

Be glad for what you do have, for it can go away. Look around you, I mean truly look around. Take the time to sit and really look at your family, friends, plants, pets, and all the other things in your life. Take the time to spend time with them, and enjoy them. Make the most of everything in your life. I posted this in October as part of the Way of the Wolf, but it bears repeating:

Savor each moment given to you as if a ripe peach:
Grasp the firmness in your fingers
Feel the fuzz on your fingertips
Let the scent fill your nose
Explore its taste with your tongue
Take its flesh with passion
Let its juices flood you and run down your chin in abandon

LW

Lite Blogging

Sorry for the lite posting, but Tuesday night was interesting. Because I acted by stimulus response on a matter, my typing ability is limited right now. What time I do have for it needs to be spent on job search, but I am trying to work on some posts of interest. Please hang in there, and stay with me while I try to go against nature and be “good” in the recovery.

LW

An Answer For The Rooneyrmidon

His wish was Sgt. Hook’s command. Here are answers from the front, as requested, and served up with more style than the inquisitor could ever hope to demonstrate. Thanks Hook!

LW

Buy A Gun Day II

Well, a great way to deal with the stress of tax day is to get back some of your own. In this case, one of the freedoms given us by the Constitution. It is Buy A Gun Day, so celebrate by going and buying a gun. Celebrate also by contributing to Aaron's fund at the site, so he can go buy something nice. Aaron, if you are ever near me, range time is on me.

LW

I Wonder How Many Will Take The Bait

UBL has made an offer for a cease fire, and a war only against America. The weasel wording is clear, so he has an out almost no matter what anyone does, but it will still be interesting to see who goes for this bait.

LW

A Salute

Reports this morning indicate that the Italian hostage murdered did not go quietly. In fact, he was apparently rather defiant and one suspects that is why the publicity arm of the terrorist movement has refused to air the footage. After all, they showed the murder of a Jew, and the mutilation of American bodies, so why should a little blood bother them? More thoughts on this later.

For now, I simply salute a brave man who did indeed show how a man dies. May the light bless and receive him, and comfort his family in the days ahead.

LW

It’s Neat Seeing Inside Your Shoulder

Yesterday morning, bright and early, I was at the doctor’s for my post-surgery check-up. He showed me pictures from inside the shoulder, which are neat and interesting. The one thing I can say is that I was incredibly lucky.

Disproving A Negative

Yesterday, I was informed that I had lost out on a job I wanted very much. It would have been fun, challenging, and with a very good company. It was the type of job and the type of company where you could stay for years, or even an entire career. In short, it was everything I could have wanted in a job. The kick in the teeth, however, is that I may have lost it because I could not disprove a negative.

Andy Rooneyrmidon

Arriving a bit late to the fray generated by Old Media Giant Andy Rooney. Truth be told, I think that after Baldilocks and Blackfive got finished with him, that there was little to be done. At least, that is, in regards his comments. As for what lies behind much of his comments, that is a different matter.

One Year Blogversary

Well, one year since this blog hit the waves at any rate. I started a month or so earlier doing some guest posts, then jumped into the waters here.

I blame thank John Ringo and Joe Katzman for getting me into this. This got started with the Maine Teacher’s Story, and a writer who was bored. I was bored in a way, and when that story broke I thought it was going to be something on the order of the JATO car – something easily and quickly disproven. I was wrong, but it plunged me into a type of writing that had been too long out of my life. I dug into it until the families asked all of us to stop.

That latter is what separates the New Media from the old in many ways. Modern so-called journalists are told to go at the story no matter what, consequences be damned. In this case, however, the consequences were not to be paid by the journalists in grand and glorious gestures, but by the families involved. I would not subject them to that, nor would any writer with any professional or personal ethics. The fact of the matter is that I am convinced that some of what happened was mistaken interpretations and mischance, and that some of it was far worse than was reported. As much as it would have been great ego boo to have dug in and exposed some of it for all to see, the fact is that I did not and do not live there, nor would I have had to live with the consequences. The families did, and do.

Which leads into other areas. Other people in other places have to live with consequences that are at best theoretical to most of us. It is easy to make decisions safely in our homes, with bounty around us. It is less easy to make those same decisions when you have to put your life, literally, on the line. Yet, the decisions we make now will place our lives, and the lives of our children, on the line for years to come. We must not make them lightly.

That is a reason I am so proud to be a part of this New Media, where real journalism, real discourse and discussion, and a real marketplace of ideas is available. There is a true feast here, if one has but the wit to take part instead of willfully starving to death.

I had planned to write a good bit more, but find that I am not able to do all I would wish this day. It has been a long one, a very long one, for me and I am tired. Lest I incur the wrath of the Borzoi, Tammi, Da Goddess, Kari, and others, I will be good so that they will not hurt me in ways I will not enjoy.

I know not what the future brings, and will not be foolish enough to speculate. If you had told me a year ago that this outlet would have brought me into contact with so many wonderful people, or that I would have had more than 82,000 visitors, I would have laughed at you. I do know that I will keep writing, even if this blog were to have to fold tomorrow. I don’t plan that, but admit that it is one of many possibilities that the future may hold. What does happen, remains to be seen.

And that is a lesson for all of us. The future is yet unwrit, though the actions we have taken and will take this day will shape our world for some time to come. Give thought to your actions, and work towards the best possible future you can envision.

Thank you John, for introducing me to Joe and getting me started. Thank you Joe for posting my first writing, and then encouraging and helping me with my own blog.

Thank you all for the year you have given me. I hope to try to live up to the challenge you pose me, now and in the years to come.

Godspeed,

C. Blake Powers
The Laughing Wolf

More To Come

But it takes more out of me than I realized to get up and do right now, esp. since physical therapy started Sunday. I will be edging back into things this week more and more each day. I have learned a number of things, and will share some or most of them with you. I have been thinking about some things, and once I can get those thoughts coherent they will be shared. Some of the dreams and waking dreams I’ve had whilst on medication, are not likely to be shared. Steaks, rare or raw, very much appreciated as the appetite is good. Am not used to comfortable slings and ice bags that really work and are comfortable, don’t plan to get used to it, though.

LW

My New Best Friend

It is amazing how they can come into your life, and make all the difference in the world. For me, she came into my life in recovery, with departure of my first nurse. She came in, eased the pain, and stayed with me day and night during the recovery. She was a balm to the pain, a pillow to my head, and if she could only give me the warmth I desire so much in return, I would marry her on the spot. I love you, my Allegiance Large Ice Bag with Ties!

LW

Happy Easter

Good wishes to all.

Update on the Wolf

The Wolf has decided to allow moi, the English Werewolf, access to his blog. Foolish he may be, but he knows that I'm not likely to hog much of his bandwidth between full moons.

Primarily, of course, this is to allow someone to post occasional updates when he's off chasing some livestock (good Donnachaidh wolf that he is), or is otherwise indisposed--as at the moment.

He rang up a little while ago to bring myself and the Borzoi up-to-date on his recent operation; he's doing well, though chafing at the collar whilst confined to the den. The drugs (all prescription, lest you think otherwise) are helping to pass the time and kill the pain. He's ready to begin some physical therapy tomorrow, so is progressing nicely overall. He'd likely type an update himself, save that his left-pawed single-finger typing is somewhat slower than my own two-pawed efforts. He is appreciating the emailed (and comment) messages from all who have sent them, and said he would be replying as his recovery permits.

Any raw steaks sent his way will, I am sure, also be greatly appreciated.

TTFN,
EW

The Day Is Here

Well, the time is now and posting may be lite for a day or three. Much depends on how I feel afterwards, and much of that depends on how much comes off the end of the collar bone.

You Have GOT To Be Kidding Me!

On The Third Hand has this story up, which links to this one.

A LEGITIMATE voice? On what planet?

Please, someone run a decent third party candidate. One with a brain, who believes in the Constitution, and will do right by the country.

LW

A Must Read Post

For anyone not familiar with it, Samizdata is an excellent read with a great group of writers. This post up today cuts to the heart of the matter, using an all too apt analogy which I can appreciate as both a student and as a teacher. Take a few minutes to go read it, and then think about it a bit. Outstanding!

LW

The Real Story In Iraq

Overwhelmed by all the gloom, doom, and dismay of the Old Media? Then, take a change of pace and go read this post at Citizen Smash. Funny how this does not seem to be newsworthy, or get coverage by the fair, balanced, and accurate Old Media.

Then, for yet another change of pace, go visit this post at Who Tends The Fires, where Ironbear has put together a good sample of Iraqi blogs. A different and much needed perspective on things, but it is interesting how much agreement there is between all these sources, and how different they are from the reports of the Old Media.

LW

Shoulder Surgery: A Vignette

Just got a phone call from the Surgery Center, reminding me of my surgery. The lady, while nice, clearly had a script. Yes, I knew to be there at 0730, surgery later. Yes, I had a ride home already arranged. Then I deviated from the script: what were my food and drink instructions? What should I wear? This led to some quick discussions what, and what not, to wear. Short version, sweat pants great. Button up shirt, great. Don’t bother with undershirt or t-shirt, they are not going to be wearable afterwards. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama has approved the procedure, and I have been told the amount of the co-pay. Joy.

LW

Shoulder Surgery: Whine 2, or How Did I Get Here?

We seldom stop to think of the abuse our bodies take on a daily basis, that is until things go wrong. In thinking about it, I have come to believe that our shoulders take more abuse than about anything other than our bottoms. Yes, the spine and knees take a lot of force, but think for a moment on the moment arms and force that our shoulders take even before the knees and spine are involved.

Are We Sure We Got All The Taliban?

It sure seems that the Taliban Lite are running amok in DC. It seems that despite DOJ failures in the days leading up to 9-11, and well documented problems confronting the issue of terrorism since, that DOJ has decided to start another war, this time on pornography. My thoughts on this are rather pungent, but suffice it to say that I have real problems with this diversion of resources from a real and terrible threat. Suggestion to the White House: you have a liability and a problem here. Fix it, or it may well fix your chances for another four years. Thanks to Cardinal Puppilieu for the hat tip.

LW

In Answer To A Challenge

Yesterday, Da Goddess issued a challenge to myself and several others to show ourselves in kilts for Tartan Day. While I did put one up, I have decided to put up another just to prove that I am up for the challenge. This one was taken with my camera by a kinsman during an axe throwing competition. Hope all of you, especially Da Goddess, enjoy.

LW

Read Sgt. Hook

He has reached the Stan and is posting on a regular basis. Don’t miss it. For those of you too lazy or whatever to go over there, start here, then go here, then go here, then go here, then go here, then go here, and then go here. Read it all the way through, and don’t skip the last paragraph.

LW

Some Thoughts On Iraq

I was busy yesterday, and I did not get any reports on casualties until quite late. I am saddened by the losses, and my thoughts go out to those killed or wounded and to their families. May the light shine on and welcome them all, and guide those left behind.

Tartan Day: Libations And Food

Well, I celebrated in fine style. I put on my Robertson Hunting epaulets for my errands, and then came home to eat some Beef Wellington. While I must admit with some shame, the beef was store bought, it was almost as good as if I had acquired it from the Lindseys. That clan has never forgotten that the Donnachaidh’s acquired some cattle from them some time back. Despite what they claim, it is a vicious lie that all members of the Donnachaidh clan have to take a course in creative acquisition: we are the one’s who teach it, thank you very much!

Shoulder Surgery: The Paperwork Begins

If there is anything you can do today that does not require paperwork, I would love to know what it is. When dealing with doctors and insurance companies, paperwork is a must and I have found it pays to be proactive. This comes from dealing with the multitude of insurance paperwork that came with my mother’s cancer and my father’s care in his final days.

Shoulder Surgery, Whine 1

Well, since last week I’ve changed my mind about a few things, but I do want to blog the process as well as the surgery. This is, in many ways, no different from any other consumer product about which I have written, and it may be that my experiences with doctors, facilities, insurance companies and the like will assist you. After all, you do have choices on each, and what I go through can help you decide on your choices.

Food For The Ears, Tartan Style

Okay, I started my day with a nice cuppa of Scottish breakfast tea, but I think I am going to start feeding my ears here soon. Two good treats for the ear on Tartan day are Heather Alexander and Loreena McKinnet. Go treat yourself and listen to these two fine musicians. May scare the neighbors a bit by setting Heather's March of Cambreadth on repeat for a while. Also, check out the older offerings by Seven Nations.

LW

Tartan Day

Today is Tartan Day, and the party is over at Ith’s place. Wear your tartan today with pride, and even if you are not of the proper descent, consider that for this day you are. There are about 21 blogs taking part, and it is not too late to join. Have fun, and enjoy the day!

This Donnachaidh (that’s Robertson and Duncan to the uninitiated) is thinking of some beef and some good single malt for the day…

LW

Passover Blessings

Passover started last night at sundown, so I would like to take this opportunity to wish all who observe it the blessings of Passover.

LW

Yes, The Pictures Should Be On The Front Page

I agree with that comment made, just not with exactly what some have in mind. I find myself much more in agreement with the dynamic duo over at Accidental Verbosity who put up this post. Take a moment, and visit this wonderful reminder.

LW

Tartan Day Tomorrow

Tomorrow is Tartan Day, and the delightful Ith at Absinthe & Cookies is putting together something special for it. Drop by her site, check it out, and I promise to try and post something to do with my own Tartan tomorrow. Thanks for the nice banner Ith!

LW

And So It Begins

The small skirmishes, the little border-style wars, the hit and run that were the hallmark of the regime that was and the initial efforts of the greater enemy are over. The shadows are rolling back, and a new phase of the war is beginning. This is only a surprise to those not paying attention, either to the situation or to history.

Nor is this new phase of the war just one with one radical cleric. It is a carefully orchestrated campaign with multiple pushes on multiple fronts. The two major fronts at which we need to look v