Good News, Back Half October with guest writer Maggie Duff

Hello everyone, I am Maggie Duff, Robert Duff's mom. This is my first blog and I hope I can fulfill the position while Robert takes a break. Hasn't it been a joy to read his past Good News Blogs ? I hope you have enjoyed them as much as I have.

Good News for the second half of October

• Danielle reports over 2000 miles on her bike this year and still has 2 months left. Wow, way to go.!!
• Susan went to Tybee Island for the Alpha Chi Sigma SE District Conclave . Beautiful place, met 130+ brothers, and had a wonderful time.
• Josie reports, Max is feeling better, glad to hear that.
• Cindy's 4-H kids put on a great spaghetti dinner last night, and all the profits went to the MS foundation. . Kudos to you all. Awesome job everyone.
• I reported that the Pittsburgh Steelers were playing well despite the bumble bee uniforms. Kumihimo (Japanese weaving) Classes are all set up. Life is Good!!
• Melissa reported that one of her neighbors was having a run of bad luck. Kind of everything going wrong; However, Melissa's husband was able to fix their heat pump at no cost. I'm sure they really appreciated the help.
• Shanna reported YEA to this!!! You helped me raise $20,407.00 for LLS
• Chuck reports that Alpha Chi Sigma Installed it's 100^th Collegiate Chapter !!!!!!
• Calvin says they are all alive, it is good to be above the ground !!
• Diana reports that the Gala to raise money for a local orphanage went well and raised lots of money.!
• Donna has reunited with old friends on FB and is enjoying catching up on the news. That is really nice. Also, a new pair of running shoes and in PURPLE. What more could you want, enjoy your runs.
• Donna G. finished her fourth full marathon. Great Job !!
• Pam said she and family, including her mom, went to the Pumpkin Patch. Went on a hayride and had a really good time. Angry Bird Costume for Matthew. Getting ready for Costume Party Friday night.
  
• Robert said that the room he has at Jefferson would catch a great price as an apartment in NYC. I say, only if it was warm..!!!
• Daynell, I love how you keep your spirits up. Duff
• Allison, We got to spend the weekend with your daughter ( my granddaughter) making slime and going to Scout day at the Museum. Sounded like fun.
• Josie, says Max is better, glad to hear that, Our pets are very important to the family.
• I am reporting on my Chuck's State Softball Tournament, they won and it was great. Ready now for the trip to Philadelphia . ( Chuck is Duff's Dad).
• Pam, reports Bo's cousins are coming for a few days on the way to Oklahoma for their sons Army Boot Camp graduation. Hope the visit was good. And Thank that young man for serving....
• Patrick's Kids left out their Halloween Candy HAD Peanut M&M 's Duff calls that the Daddy Tax
• Donna's Fourth Marathon was her slowest ,Way to go Donna, Duff is proud of you. !!!! What Run was it ?
• Shana recommends the noodles from CheU Take Out near the hospital Really Yummy
• Melissa, was able to find a Groot costume and did not have to make one. I made an ET for Duff one time and everyone thought he was a puppy. !!
• Danielle, is really getting organized ! Planning two days in advanced getting caught up on grading and even thinking into next year. Good for you , Is your Christmas Shopping complete yet ?
• Christina, thanks to the remind app. About the pot luck in your sons Spanish class ,even if it was only 12 hours notice.. Taco Bell is open till Midnight in case your desperate.
• Lisa, is rooting for Robert !!
• Donna, took her son to see Hozier and had a great time. Made a new resolution to work on for myself and my family. Had a decent run on the mill.
• I 'm proud to report Chuck's entire softball team dedicated the State Tournament To Duff. They Won and Sent the Trophy to Duff. Chuck his an amazing Grand Slam. One for the record books.......
• Pam, says family from Alabama arrived and having a good time. Headed to the Capital Austin and some museums. Life with family is important.......
• Duff, Cindy , I will pass along an awesome recipe for cauliflower mac and cheese soon.

It has been a joy to read about all your news. It makes you most appreciative of the large and small things in life , just to share them with others. Thank you for your kindness to Robert, I don't call him Duff and I hope he will feel up to returning to his duties as the Chief Good News Blogger.

Mom Duff

Good News in October. So Far ... running, birthdays, organizing and much more

I know, I know.  As some of you might remember I said I would update the good news as soon as I open my laptop.  Well, I will be honest.  I have just opened it for the first time in over a week today.  I just have been under motivated.  Actually, I have been sleeping.  I think the radiation is wearing me out.  Oh yeah, I am getting zapped on purpose.  We are getting ready for the last of the treatments and that was a little radiation to the lung.  Soon, I shall get angry and turn into a huge green rage monster.
In an case, I am glad you guys have stuck with me and shared your drama free good news.  The world has gotten even worse in some senses with the election coming up and the shooting in Ottawa.  Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and fine Canadian soldiers that were senselessly killed this past week.  I hope that even through all of this madness we can see the great tiny victories we have every day.  So here it is.

Good News for the Weeks of 11 and 18 October 2014

• I got to run this past weekend.  It was just a mile and it was very windy but it was awesome.  I will get out again this weekend. Space, please remind me to get out of bed and do this.
• Josie got back from her vacation at Siesta Key.  I have heard how awesome that place is.  Perhaps I shall visit it some time.  Also, perhaps you might visit Duck and Marathon Key.
• Stephanie ran 7 miles last weekend.  I hope it wasn't as windy as my run but otherwise totally awesome.  One day we might actually go on a run together, I hope.
• Danielle gave an update on the re-organization of her classroom.  It is finally feeling like "hers/mine" and  the seating arrangement is more conducive to doing labs.  Mark helped with some decorations.  Evidently it is time for a review of the expectations which is teacher speak for reminding everybody of the rules.  I remember those reminders in labs usually came with a suspension because of some fire I caused.  Here comes the boom.  Her students like to clean glassware.  In my entire academic and professional career I have never seen anybody that likes to clean glasswear.  There must be some amazing reward that she is giving out, like chocolate perhaps?
• Gwen is with her old trainer again.  Totally awesome. 
• Donna had a bike ride with Sean through Pennypack Park on an awesome day.  I agree the mild weather has been amazing and given us amazing chances to enjoy the go out to places like Pennypack.  That is a cool park.
• Jennifer had a good birthday.  Cool and happy birthday.  You have survived the Earth hurtling around the sun one more time.  If you have to grow old, never grow up.
• Melissa designed her new kitchen and her bother-in-law the contractor approved it.  Great, more chance for bread pudding and cobbler. 
• Howard had a great time at the North Central District (Regional) Conclave.  I have always heard great things about the event and one day I will attend.
• Melissa's twins turned 9.  My, how time flies.  Did we grow up so fast when we were kids?
• Donna is taking charge and to top it off she ran a 5 mile race.  Results please.  5 milers were always fun races.  I remember one back in Ohio with all you can eat pancakes afterward.
• Space reports that the Psycho had her first US meet of the season.  Three days of swimming awesomeness and a great way to start the season.
• Maggie has finalized her plans for the trip to Philly.  I'll see you in about a week and a half.
• Pam had some great visits with her mom and did some craft projects along the way.  It is awesome and say hey to Peggy and the rest of the gang for me.
• Danielle had a great bike ride downtown for Open House Chicago.  It sound like a lot of fun.  

So much good news to share and I am overjoyed by all of it.  I may be transfering some of the good news duties in the coming weeks to some guest bloggers.  It all depends on how my body is reacting to the treatment.  In any case, it will be an interesting few weeks so I look forward to more good news.  Also, check out Spaces new/old review blog.  It is awesome as well.

A Report of the Tiny Victories for the Second Half of September

Okay, okay.  So if you want to call what I did was serious slacking off, you can just look at the title of this blogpost.  I had this plan as of late last week to make the good news a giant blast of victories from the third half of September.  And some really bad stuff is happening. This thing has got really looking forward to my transplant in an isolation unit.  My heart and all those warm and fuzzy feelings go out to that dude and his family.  Having trouble with those still in those countries but that is another thing.  So much crappy things going on out there we need a giant blast of the good news.  So here I go with a deep breath...

Good News for the last half of September 2014

• Hannah had a department picnic.  I hope it was fun and without meteorological instability.
• Shana went running.  Awesome and given the date that was the Rock n Roll Phill Half.  I saw you there, I am sure of it.  Go Team.
• Harold bought boy scout.  Made from fresh Boy Scouts.  Those boy scouts make some delicious popcorn.
• Donna went and ran the RnR Philly marathon as well.  She seemed to be excited about finding see a friend there too.  She also got a bunch of fall/winter clothes for not too much and to top it off she seems to be taking control of her own life.  That is the way it should be.  Take control sister and when things feel like they are out of control take control for yourself.
• Danielle found out that presenting at middle school curriculum night isn't as scary as she thought it was and she got to see some of her students at Beach Sweep helping a good cause then hopefully had a restful afternoon ahead of the North Shore Century the next day.
• Maggie has everything ready for Chuck's trip to Belgium and the tablet tutorial was going well.  What I would give to have been a fly on that wall.
• Melissa reports that after 18 years Pete has learned out her mind works and can follow her train of thought.  A warning for Pete.  This doesn't mean you know what she is thinking.  Don't ever assume that.
• Erin became an Ironman.  That is awesome time infinity.  I can barely swim and biking is right out.  So totally awesomeness.
• Shana is back it was good to see me, with hair!
• Donna reports that the race was awesome.  You looked like you had it handled at mile 11. So good on ya.
• Mandy got her Beach to Bell medal.  I love extra medals.
• Christopher had the traditional family visit to the apple orchard and the weather was fine.  Yum, unprocessed apple pie.
• Donna saw me on Saturday.  It is a different Donna that saw me this time.
• Danielle did it.  She completed her second century ride, despite the wind.  Way to go.
• Maggie says that Chuck made it to Belgium without much incident but also no sleep.  That was a big mistake.  That is the way to start off a trip exhausted.
• I ran a 5k.  I actually ran a 5k and then walked about four miles at the half marathon the next day just to clap for the runners there.
• Allison said that Washington Pro had a great Shrimpfest.  One of these days I will make it to one.
• Harold's niece one first place at the horse show.  I am sure the horse has something to do with it as well.
• Susan affirms Allison's assertion that the Shrimpfest was great. Saw old brothers and met new ones.
• Melissa spent an enjoyable evening with her 12 year old and he was only mildly embarrassed to be with her in public.  That means you are not trying hard enough.
• Josie had a great Fall Gala and raised some money for the Y.
• Bill is joyous that Mizzou beat South Carolina.
• Susan gives the reminder that Indiana beat Mizzou the week prior.
• Danielle says "I have lots of ideas brewing about how to rearrange and decorate my classroom to make it function better for teaching and learning. Already implemented the first one and can't wait for the kids to see on Monday!"
• Timah says that next to HI-KY there is just three words.  Little Brown Jug.  Go Golden Gophers.
• Donna was excited about hosting the comedy night to benefit the LLS.
• Elizabeth says the Magic Bands came in the mail and a vacation seems in order.  Not sure what that is about but it sounds like fun.
•  Jason says that Jodi's whole family including two uncles, cousins and the grandkids get together every fourth Sunday for a potluck.  Jason says, "Total craziness, but what a cool tradition in today's disconnected society."  I totally agree and that is why I was demanding dinner at the table for the few months we were in Tn.  
• Cindy reports that the Packers beat the Bears and "all is well in Wisconsin."  Don't tell Timah.
• Pam says that Bo got his truck running after being down a while.  Also, Mathew is getting back to the routine which includes choir and running club.  So great with post surgery and  being able to breath through his nose for the first time ever.  Running, did somebody say running.  I am so happy to hear that we have another runner in the family.
• Donna is feeling good, healthy and strong.  It is amazing what can happen when you run.  Running is good.
• Jeff reports that 8 shrimp and more food missed me dearly.  Yum, cocktail.
• Melissa got $10k to remodel her kitchen from her mother in-law.  Aren't mother-in-laws wonderful?  I hope you are using that remodeled kitchen to make bread pudding... for me. ;)
• Maggie is getting great pictures from Chuck of Belgium and is enjoying the scrabble game and the e-mails from her granddaughter.  I can only assume the Psycho is being good with her e-mails.  Some of the things that come out of her mouth can really strain the senses.
• Maggie comes back with the remote is in quiet mode and the TV is no longer rolling through the channels.  What a concept.
• Danielle got to visit the alma mater and though the Illini lost to Purdue it was good being back on campus visiting the Quad and showing Mark the tunnels that connect the chemistry buildings then joining friends for lunch at Murphy's.  It sounds like a lot of fun.  It always bugs me when I see the children at colleges these days.  I was never that young.
• As you may have noticed time is moving about so Maggie is reported the return of Chuck from his European vacation.  I am sure he had a lot of fun which included buying a bike.  As a runner I never have that problem.  Just bring the shoes and I am good.
• Noel had a 20 miler for some training and it was very successful.  You know what else was successful the fundraiser she had on the previous Friday night.
• Jeff informs us that the Jackets are 5-0 and that baseball with Will is going well this fall.  So close.  My tech was so close to beating your tech but there can be only one per season.
• Raymond finally had a weekend off and got to snuggle with the girls so it was a good day.  I know the feeling.  Snuggling is good.
• Just in case we did not know it Helen wants us to know that the Orioles swept the Tigers.
• Thanks to Sandy for letting us know that the Royals are unbeaten in postseason ball for the past 28 years including their sweep of the Angels. Ah postseason baseball.  I love it because my Pirates have made it to extra games twice in the past to postseasons.
• And Donna wraps this up with that I got my port out. Which for those of you that don't know that means I am heading to stem cell transplant at the end of the month.

So that is it.  What a plethora of great tiny victories.  A lot of running which is awesome.  Also, would like to report that I have a new website to support my little consulting business.  Check it out.  www.rae-tec.com  I would like to thank all of your for your patience and still giving me the material to fill this messed up blog with a little shiny happy. Not just the rants of a mad man. 

Hail to the Red Skins Go Chief Wahoo and Illiniowek

I wish you would stop complaining about how your bastardized society has been offended by some bullshit about a mascot name that is supposed to be an honor as to you your old culture could help a team in sports win. Lets get this straight, your bloodline should have been integrated or annihilated by now. What you had is gone due to one people conquering another. What you have is a product of the fact that the United States is the worst winner in the world. The government has allowed your culture to decay in this sealed off state where you were allowed to whither into what we see today.

Let me explain, your peoples were conquered. It came in so many forms. The European diseases that were brought over almost did the job without a shot being fired. If

you only knew then what you knew now you would have shot those pilgrims on site and burned all

but one boat just so you could send one back as a message. It is too bad the Spaniards were to viscous amongst others to make sure what they saw was now theirs. I would almost say you are more than lucky and should count your blessings for having so much that you have. If it weren't for some of those kinder christian ethics and an organization of an independent government that allowed you to even exist.

So through some sort of genius the government set up the reservations and your ancestors through some sore of mass ignorance, nay global stupidity said “okay.” There, you brewed and cut yourselves off to the point that at some point any number of social afflictions came along and some of those were white boy schemes and included

• Slums
• low cost labor
• illicit drug addiction
• and we cannot forget the firewater, alcoholism
• gambling, of course

I know I am forgetting some but you get the drift. You ignoramuses over a century or so have been bastardized to some malformed sort of sub-society of our own. You hang onto your traditions like they are part of some fraternity. Go ahead, say that is the point by honoring your heritage with the ritual and regalia of yesteryear. Think about it real hard. No! Please watch “Animal House” or “The Proposal” or some stupid college movie . Are you getting the gist, I was insulting you again.

So now you idiots have gone after the proud traditions of school mascots (symbols if you are from Illinois) and professional team names. Cleveland Indians have a insulting hat. How about their record in the playoffs?¹ That is insulting. The NCAA idiots bowed to your antiquated ideas. The fact that you weren't wiped out like the Spartans of yore really is only reason we hear your jibber jabber. Here is some good news this year it looks like your most offensive Redskins may have a chance to beat the Cowboys. I got to admit, the Daily Show piece that started me back on this rant showed a bit of you idiots when fans of the team and the name rallied still for continuing the legacy of the Redskin moniker well after disclosing their own native american bloodline. The Chicago Blackhawks don't seem to be receiving your wrath. It may help to be a more recent name on Lord Stanley's Cup or a tribe's name could help.

I know what I have said has been insulting which is the point. I am sure that my facts are misrepresented and there are people that know more about the ins and outs of what I have pointed out. And in more than a few ways I may be (am) wrong. On this point I AM NOT! The native american culture that existed throughout what is now the United States of America is nothing but a

shadow of some twisted, bastardized, ignorant, insulting version of a lost mythology and languages. I don't know if it was part of the master plan, and we do not talk about the master plan, but your community is pathetic and needs to shut up when it comes to idiocy like the name of a professional football team. Is there not more you should be worried about like how on earth you can end the nightmare that is what this country has taken from you. I fathom that those of your native american ancestors on the Trail of Tears were not crying so much for what had been done but for hope that their future would not be like this. Perhaps the next generation can move on join the rest of us into the 21^st century.

1- In a sarcastic voice.

Like a Spy Being Outted by Scooter Libby, Here some old Good News

Lets say I was sneaking around with all the clear intentions of getting this done almost a week ago.  But then I would sit down and look at the TV and not want to get up.  Then I would find that the clock had mysteriously moved several hours and I thought I had just closed my eyes for just a minute.  I am going to keep saying that my body is just not able to make it through the day without a little rest.  I keep trying but I cannot stay awake through the day.  So I will take as many moments as I can to get this done in the future.  In any case, I don't want to diminish the boat loads and ship loads of amazing tiny victories that have been shared.  And to prove to all of you just how high the level of narcicism is, I will start with news of my own.  :{p

Good News for the Week of 13 September 2014

• I ran.  That's right I ran.  It has been a long time and I have more of that coming.
• Chuck saw Lewis Black in London.  That must have been an amazing yet angry show.  That was London, Ontario.  I was originally thinking Ohio but Chuck cleared it up.
• Maggie got a new table.  Awesome, I can't wait to see it.
• Looks like Maggie also won at bingo.
• Danielle says that Autumn, her cat, has been especially snugly lately and was curled up in her lap as she sent the news.  I miss my cat she used to paw at Space's head all the time and it was her way of trying to kill Space.  I swear she was trying to kill her.  It was funny.
• Christina worked both that Saturday and Sunday.  I miss working.  Lately I find that I just try and keep educated.
• Josie had a birthday.  I don't know how I missed that but here is what I say to everybody's birthday.  If you have grow old, may you never grow up.  And just for you.  It's only muscles.
• Cindy had her son Anthony visiting from Florida.  Best to do that before winter hits Wisconsin.  
• Maggie won a shirt at bingo and it was sent to me.  It was a nice shirt and is now part of the Psycho's pajama collection.

Well, that's it for a that week.  I will be coming at you with another one soon.  I am so glad you guys shared all of your tiny victories with me and each other. 

I am Returning from a Blogging Vacation- Good News 6 Sep 14

Well, I'm back.  I know I kind of took an unintentional vacation along with a labor day weekend  vacation. In all honesty I was tired.  The latest chemo has taken its toll on me and I have found that naps are plentiful and long.  Either way, once again the world is going insane and it seems like even the good news is being called bad.  Perhaps, those in the media need to look at the tiny victories that have been shared and realize we don't need the negativity.  Now look at the joy on puppies face.  I found this picture when I was looking up pictures of good news.  In any case, one more excuse is prominent.  I had spent a bit of time putting together another web site for the little consulting company I have.  So here we go.

Good News for the Week of 6 September 2014

• Niny ran her first half mile, ever.  I hope this is the start of many miles in the future.
• Dona completed her 12 mile run for the upcoming race.  I love organized training plans.  Also, the kids are back to school and so far thing are going well.  Also, she found a soccer program for the kids. 
• Susan would like to remind us that football season is back.  Also, her two uncles that were in the hospital are now home.  
• Melissa survived camping with her mother and 3 kids.  Such an ordeal is stuff of legend and mythology.  
• Maggie had a good week at bridge but is taking a break for some belated spring cleaning.  I am sure that cards be back soon.\
• Donna had "16 totally gross miles."  That is the pain of running fall races.  It calls for summer training.
• Laura had a great day hiking and the moment of posting Tech was ahead.  There is more to come on that subject.
• Jason is obviously looking forward to a fall break trip to Traverse City, MI. 
• Pam reports that Mathew recovering well from his sinus surgery and tonsillectomy.  He will be returning to school this week.  Also, they had a good time visiting with my aunt Peggy including a surprise breakfast.  We are all glad to have her smile these days. 
• Danielle has survived her first two weeks as a middle school teacher.  She also went for a bike ride on a beautiful day and met with friends from Madison and their adorable baby boy.  Middle school can be trying.  Those kids start forming their own opinions and that can be awesome and troubling at the same time.
• Jason came back with something simple and awesome.  Virginia Tech 35, Ohio State 21.
• I also anounced the Hokie win.  Hokie hokie hokie hi, Tech tech VPI, Sol a rex, Sol a rah, Polytech Virgin-a, Ray Rah VPI, Team team team.
• Christopher says that the Vikings have learned to tackle in the off season and has applied it in week 1.
• Chuck went for a 9 mile hike on Kelly's Island on day two of his 15day road trip.  Sounds like fun.
• Jennifer made it to Salt Lake City without indecent.  That is a miracle given the state of our domestic air travel.
• Space is done.  It was a lot of work that paid off in a successful FACT inspection.  
• Sherrie reached the end of the chemo regiment.  What a nice feeling that must be.

So much great news.  I dare you to feel sad after all of that great news.  Okay, you Ohio State fans/alums may be a little sad but I would be sure that the game would be different if Braxton Miller was not hurt.  So besides that it was amazing and I am so glad you shared.  I look forward to next weeks. 

Take a Deep Breath: It's the Good News (8 Aug 14)

So I'm sitting here watching wrestling and thinking to myself.  "Duff, you could use this time to do something productive.  You could work on your Good News."  I spent a few more moments arguing with myself.  I am sure I missed something on WWE.  But I was right.  Not only because I looked at the good news and just by shear quantity there was a boatload of tiny victories a going on.

Good news for the week of 8 August 2014

• I start it off where Space and I went to pick the Psycho up from resident camp.  I missed the little girl and it was good to see her and she made up for a weeks worth of talking during the 1.5 hour trip home that time just flew.  As we got a couple of blocks away from home she was stunned and said "It has only been like twelve minutes."  It is the time dilation affect that Einstein wrote about in special relativity which states that time (T)move as an inverse relationship to the amount of talking(t) if that talking is done by a little girl (tlg).  T=1/t(tlg)
• Maggie got a nice e-mail from her granddaughter.  Though they live far apart perhaps they can start a better line of communication through e-mail.  I hope it works out and I will do what I can to remind the Psycho that actually check her e-mail and perhaps respond to it.
• Josie said her cousins are visiting from Italy.  Wow, that is cool.  I wish I had cousins from Italy.  I would go visit them and perhaps not leave Europe...ever.
• Donna had a great run before celebrating her brother-in-law's 50th birthday at a party at their house.  She had a good conversation with an old-friend the night prior and will be having another friend over for dinner the next day.  Well, have fun at the party.  The run is awesome and I saw that you got to the frelling bridge.  It looks like you are right on track for the Rock n' roll half.
• Patrick had a nice home brew with the neighborhood while a neighbor and his band are "doing a respectable rendition of Crazy on You for the neighborhood."  That must be nice.  I am not sure my neighborhood would put up with band playing openly.  Of course I could be wrong.
• Jason decide to blow the lid off of the good news barrel with receiving the Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Award.  Dude, that is huge.  Way to go man.  I am so damn proud.
•  Niny had some great wine in wine country.  I have been near wine country before I can only imagine what it is like spending some time there.
• Stephanie had a great time running 5 miles along the C&O canal with her father and brother-in-law.  It is fun running with family.  I got the same chance when Space dragged me out on Sunday and said lets run.  She kicked my but.
• Danielle had a lot of summer fun with friends over the weekend but had mixed feelings about the transition from summer to fall getting ever so close. She is excited for picking up some tickets to an Illini home game.  It must be fun.  I have been banned from Tech games because I tend to be bad luck.  Of course it could be a lack of fundamentals football with an effective running game.
• I had a day of from anti-biotics.  The doc said I could go down to 5 days a week and I figured it would be great to start on Sunday.
• Melissa is taking the kids out for some cheap history at Colonial Williamsburg since the place will be letting VA residents in for free instead of $40/person.  It is amazing how many years I lived near there and never found my way over there.  I did go to Busch Gardens but the closest I got was a track meet at William & Mary College.
• Maggie had movie and dinner and is celebrating football season.  She knows that my football season will not start till September.
• Matt says that today he starts the 5th year working at the school he loves and working with his best group of students to date.  That is awesome dude.  I love it when someone loves their job.  I find that if I am not having fun in my work then it is not really worth it.
• Susan is celebrating the amazing victory of having friends that support her. I am so glad that I have same victory to celebrate. 
• Cindy tells us that Alabama was great.  Was?  Did something happen too it? :p
• Donna had a nice 12 miler.  I cannot wait to get back to it.
• Christina reports "Went on a much needed, and very relaxing, camping trip this weekend that will end in my sweetheart and I watching the Sounders match in Tacoma with our good friend, Karen. We're taking the scenic ride over White Pass home."  Again some more great ideas on how to relax over a weekend.  
• Timmy is starting his second year as a teacher by teaching history.  As he puts it, he will get the chance to teach these kids why they don't have to vote for Obama again in the next election.
• Maggie came back to rub it in that she lives in central Florida and had great weather.  She did mention something about a wonderful family or something like that but I am sure there is at least one PITA in you life.  Like me.
•  Shannon is having a good time in Germany and got to see some Perseid meteors before the weather happened.  Again, just give me the chance to get over there and I will stay out of the way and just stay in Europe for a while.

Holy shit, that was a crap load of good news.  Again, with all the horrific shit that goes on in the world it sometimes seems like we are going to blow up the planet any day now. Even Jon Stewart is getting a little lost for words.  Yet we can get to it with our tiny victories.  Thanks guys and till next week.

Tada: It's the Good News

I bet you guys actually did it in the Professor's voice.  Well, it's that time again.  Of course I really want to put this out on Wednesdays but that is the day that naps are a plentiful.  So I got a slew of good news to blurb out.  It was a good set.  And I think I got it all this time.  Let me check to make sure.  Wait just as second.  {Jeopardy music plays in the background} Okay, I checked now I am really certain I got it all.  I just checked again and yep I have to a very high probability that I got it all.  So here it is.


Good News for the Week of 2 July 2014

• Josie had her 11th annual YMCA picnic just this past weekend and had over a hundred people attend.  That is awesome.  I can't believe you have been there over 11 years but it makes sense because the Psycho is 12 and we met you shortly after she was born.  
• Jeff enjoyed touring campus with the Psycho and found some cool fun spots.  I know she had fun because in some of the pictures you sent Space the Psycho was almost smiling.
• Donna reports that the Team coaches think she can do a sub-6 hour marathon and she is going to prove them right.  I know you can too.  That will be my new goal once I get back on the road.
• Danielle has a montly good news where thanks to some awesome weather she set a personal record of 615.8 miles on her bike for July. That is awesome.  I wish sometimes I liked riding my bike but then I lace up and go for a run.
• Cindy and her 4H kids did an incredible job on the float for the Sunday parade during Eden Firemen's picnic weekend.  You have to let us know if the float wins any awards. 
• Donna had a successful dinner where her husband got to hang out with his childhood friend that he hadn't seen in 20 years.  To top it off another friend came over the next day for dinner.  Reunions are awesome.  I had that chance last fall when I went to my 20 year high school reunion.  It was awesome but disappointing that there was a low turnout.
• Bob said the good news for his week was seeing me.  I'm touched but not there.  I was glad to see you as well.  I miss having my very own sommelleir.  I had a bottle of Chilean wine that I would have liked to have shared with you if I could have gotten back.
• Pam had a day off and she spent it with Bo and Mathew (a.k.a. her boys) and then take a nap.  That is what I like to call Sunday.
• Melissa says her husband got a new job with a pay raise equal to their mortgage.   That is awesome.  Hopefully the grass will be greener on the other side or at least a different shade of green.

Once again, you guys have come through with another big bag of good news.  I forgot to share last week but I will think of something.  It won't be that hard.  Either way, thanks for sharing.  Remember that when the world is going bat shit insane and it all seems like doom and gloom we have our tiny victories to remind everybody that there is still something good going on.

Due to a Failure of Situanal Awareness, Bonus Good News

It was not long after I posted the Good News for the previous week that I thought something was up.  It seemed like I remember there being other news posted.  I thought I had posted things but my brain has been playing tricks on me lately.  It thought that I could drive 502 miles in less than 24 hours and over 1004 miles through the entire week between Charlottesville and Philly.  Luckily I did not do it. My body intervened and told the Brain where that idea could go.  In any case, I looked back at the submissions and clicked on the thing that said "View 9 more comments."  There they were a bunch (9) of more submissions that I totally missed.  So due to my lack of Situational Awareness, I bring you the extra special Bonus Good News.

Bonus Good News for the Week of 26 July 2014

• I got to go down to to Charlottesville, for the Apha Chi Sigma Biennial Conclave and get to see so many friends that I call brothers.
• Matt, Susan and Claudia got to meet up with me and also had a blast at conclave.  It was fun and the plethora of hugs and hand shakes were awesome.  Thanks for the support guys.
• Josie reports that the Southeastern YMCA had a successful summer carnival and raised some money for the annual campaign. I am so glad that things are going well at the Y.  It was you guys that got me started running so I owe you guys a bunch.
• Cindy was stoked to see the family and I at conclave.  Though I missed Cindy, Space and the Psycho met up with her and had a good time.
• Donna has been running well on her training program and has been feeling great.  She also reports that she has been dealing with the little bad things going wrong with "grace and patience."   I am getting back to the running with some walking but will be back at it soon and perhaps I can get to run with my buddy in the future.
• Pam reports that Mathew got his braces out.  Check it out.
• 
  Melissa came at us with "My husband gets several weeks PAID vacation from his teaching job and he is not allowed to just cash it in this year. This means he will be around. His tightwad tendencies trumped his workaholic tendencies. We have come to an agreement that he will only work EVERY OTHER DAY ( at his side business)during his "vacation". Longstory short- my kids will actually get to see their father this summer ( he usually works 60-80 hrs/week in the summer."  I understand him to some point.  I really couldn't take a day off completely but Pete will have a good time with the kids.  Take from the guys who hasn't been able to work for almost 2 years.

Once again I am sorry for totally missing those other submissions.  I got fooled by Facebook again.  Any who, thanks to all of you guys for your awesome amazing good news.  So this Monday evening bonus is for all of you that have contributed.  May your Tuesday be a little bit better. Oh and a special shout out to Holly for joining the good news.  Thanks.

Just Like Chocolate, It's Good News

Well, I may get this out early since I started early.  Just like chocolate after a long day, good news can make things seem better.  So when I asked you guys for some you came charging in with your tiny victories.  It was awesome.  So here I am sharing them with the world.

Good News for the Week of 26 July 2014

• Chuck Carroll reminds many of us that it is Conclave this week.  I got a chance to spend a couple of days there and it was great seeing everybody.
• Jennifer got discharged from the Wound Clinic and does not have to go back.  That means her leg is almost healed with just another month of walking restrictions and compression tubes.  Sounds good and since I saw you earlier this week it looked like you were getting around fairly well but don't push too hard.
• Cindy reports that the VBS material is packed away for another year.  She is starting on the bins for the fair and then it is packing for Conclave.  I am not sure what most of that was but I am glad you finished it all up but I am also sorry our schedules did not mesh.  I was trying to get back after my business in Philly but my body said "TIRED!" So I listened to my body and not my brain because if you guys have read any of my other blogs Brain Bad.
• Susan came back with a report that her brother got his B.S. last week.  And she too was at Conclave.
• Pam says that after three weeks on vacation with the Alabama grandparents he has returned.  They celebrated by staying in a hotel in Louisiana then on to home in Texas.  I am sure you missed him even though you probably won't let on. 
• Donna has reached the $2000 fundraising milestone. Every penny counts for an amazing cause so please keep up the good fight and everyone else feel free to give a buck or more.  Go Team.
• Danielle say that Mark and her completed her first metric century ride of the year.  To top it off they may have had their first ever without a flat.  She is still on track for her goal of the year and she has signed up for another attempt at the 5k.  That is awesome and remember that running includes walking.  
• Holly started her new job as an RN this past week and she reports a hate for cancer.  We are all with you on that one and congratulations on the new job taking care of us in need.
• And Maggie got a new floor lamp for the den after six years of searching for one. I would say that you might have to high a criteria for a floor lamp.  Well, either way, I am sure it is pretty.

Okay, so some of you are wondering what is up with this Conclave I and others have been talking about.  Well, I belong to a professional chemistry fraternity called Alpha Chi Sigma and every two years we have our national meeting where we meet and conduct the business of the fraternity including stuff like chemical education and outreach.  It is awesome where I get a chance to see many of my brothers across the country that I haven't seen in two years.  I got to spend a couple of days at Conclave but had to come back to Philly to get more antibiotics.  It was cool as well as your sharing of your good news.  Thanks guys and I hope you keep bringing us all the tiny and not so tiny victories.

Almost Early, Here Comes the Good News 19 July 2014

Holy bull chips, I am actually getting to this in an almost reasonable time. It seems everytime I sit down to do this I get distracted by something and start something else.  I am like a dog and someone yells squirrel.  I have a joke for you guys.
-A squirrel walks up to a tree and says "I forgot to store acorns for winter and now I am dead." Ha! It is funny because the squirrel gets dead. Up, Pixar 2009
In any case I am here getting IVIG infused into me so I figured I better start on this.  You guys really came back with a bunch of good stuff.

Good News for the week of 19 July 2014

• Susan is happy that her friend are there for her and make her smile, keep her sane and have her back when it comes to bullies.  We are here for you Susan and your sanity was lost a long time ago.
• Matt, Jen and the girls are have been trying to walk more and managed to walk 6.5 miles last Saturday.  That is Space and the Psycho's plan as well.  I am too zonked by the time Space gets home to go for a walk.
• Christina reports that Johnathan is heading off to diabetes camp this week and that he is finally shaving the teenage wiskers/fuzz.  I remember those days it took a while before it started growing evenly.  Now days my girls like me as a Nerf Herder.  
• Josie let us know that Dave and Dolce will have their first therapy dog visit.  They will be at Light of Heart Villa on Tuesdays.  That is awesome.  I remember how important Booger (our basset hound) was when we were having a tough time.  
• Maggie won at bridge two days in a row and she lost 2 pounds.  That is awesome about the bridge and I am sure you will find those 2 pounds if you look hard enough. :P
• Abbey says that on Wednesday they will go before the judge and he will finalize the legal portion of the adoption of the 2 amazing kids "who have been ours in our hearts the minute they walked through the door 2.5 years ago."  Congratulations guys.  I am so happy for you.
• Danielle finished her compliance training, through a marathon session of video viewing, for the next school year.  Also, she got to wear her Konerko jersey to the White Sox game on Friday and got an orange and blue Sox hat because it was Illini night.  I-L-L!  That reminds me I need to finish up some training.
• Howard's niece won first place in horse jumping at the county fair.  That is impressive.  You have to have some serious leg strength to jump over horses.  Oh wait, I have been informed that you ride the horse and the horse jumps.  That is even more awesome.
• Melissa reports that her first son will be 12 this week.  He is growing to be a fine young man at 5'6" and size 11 shoes.  According to her she may only have another year till he will be looking down at her.  I remember the day my father figured out that I was taller than he was.  Though it happened when he was yelling at me for getting in trouble (again), we both ended up laughing hysterically about it in seconds.
• Pam is picking up Mathew from the Alabama grandparents this week.  It always sounds good on paper, a week or two without the offspring but you end up missing the littlins.
• Donna got to see Breakfast Club on the big screen and she had a good 8 mile run.  To top it off the husband was duped into helping to clean the bedroom.  Way to go Donna on all of it.  Breakfast club must have been awesome.
• Mandy finished 42 miles and her husband finished 33.6 in the BOMF 20 in 24 ultra race.  That is amazing.  I am sorry I missed you guys.  Either way, great job and a great cause.
• Cindy and her 4-H kids had a fantastic fair week and captured the grand champion dairy steer title.  Great job guys.  
• Jen reports that she mowed the lawn and didn't run over anything.  I love the smell of freshly cut grass in the morning.
• Maggie said that she can lose at words with friends and still be proud of the winner.  Thanks mom.  Soon we will have a rematch.  

Well, I started this entry early with the best of intentions of finishing it early but my body had other plans.  Mostly those plans included napping.  In any case, I did get to it and what a plethora of good news you guys had.  I hope for a just a minute, you forget the insanity going on in the world and you take the time to enjoy your tiny and sometimes huge amazing victories out there.  Till next time.

Out from the Ashes of Piles of Drama Comes Good News From Last Week

Like the phoenix rising from the ashes or more like my shift key coming unstuck after the beginning of a sentence, here comes a belated set of good news from last week.  I got to say the past week has been kind of crappy to say the least.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those out there and their families.  Lets hope that the drama builders cease being insane and get their heads out of their asses.  Perhaps, we should share with them some of our good news to realized that there are good things going on in the universe. Now after many a long naps comes...

Good News for the week of 12 July 14

• Donna has come back to say that she survived a "Sh*t storm," at work and is still kicking it on the job front.  Also, it looks like September training is going well.  I can't wait to see you out there Rock'n and a Roll'n in the fall.
• Melissa found out that she was going to have 3 kid free days.  I think that means all 3 kids will be gone for 3 days.  Altogether that makes 9 days.  So sometime next week she can tell us how it was.  I actually had a Psycho free week and at first it was okay and silent but I ended up missing the lunatic fairly quickly.
• Maggie got home.  I know the trip she was on and Lewis and Clark would be impressed.  Either way, they made it home safe and that is the important thing.
• Pam and Bo renewed their wedding vows to celebrate their 10th anniversary.  They celebrated more with friends and family in Montgomery and they will be without kid as Mathew will be spending another couple of weeks with the grandparents.
• Donna got a mysterious Pi donation on her fundraising page. 
• Danielle came back from an unplugg for quite a bit to get back in touch with nature at Tunnel Trail Campground.  She slept in an actual tent and bike the Elroy Sparta trail and iced the cake with buying baked goods from genuine Amish people.  It seemed like a good time. 

Well, guys thanks for the good news.  It makes me happy to see it coming up even with all the insanity.  Thanks again and I am sorry for it being so late.  Please keep up the good news and tell your friends.  

Holy Molely News for the week of 5 July 14

Hey guys it has been another on of those weeks where it seems like the world is going crazy and the media is just eating it up.  But you guys have stepped up to show that there are good and great things that are happening that actually make our personal lives much better than what our news outlets are trying to make it out to be.  I would like to let you know that there is one or maybe two pieces of amazingly great news that have happened in the last week so I am giving them a place of honor at the front of the list.  So here it goes.

Good News for the Week of 5 July 14

• Melissa has reported that after 3 years her Aunt has won her battle with breast cancer.  This hits close to my heart, actually my blood and lungs, given my own situation. No matter what I wish nothing but good health for Melissa's Aunt and the rest of the family.
• Sports Illustrated broke the news the Lebron is returning to Cleveland.  While I was living there I got the chance to see him play at The Q and he was really the reason I became a Cavs fan. Okay that is not really from last week but it is still awesome.

•  Donna reports that she has all of her snail mail letters gear ready for fund raising for the LLS.  That is great and I hope she gets is all finished that is great.  Go Team!  If you would like to help the cause go to Donna's TnT site and give a bit.  It is tax deductible and every dollar counts so if you can give a dollar please do so.
• Danielle has found that she has forgotten how to parallel park.  This may seem bad but it is good for two reasons.  1. This means she has been riding her bike a lot. b. She actually knew how to parallel park in the first place.  So many never attained that skill.
• Hellen has been putting the finish touches on the preparations for Conclave in just a few weeks.  She is hoping for excellent discourse and logical, cool heads. Sorry to say ther will be times where logic will be thrown out the door and I can garente that maintaining a week of cool heads is going to be an impossibility.  But I will try.
• Abbey was enjoying a wonderful extra long holiday weekend with the family, in-laws, and she set a 5k PR.
• Pam was on her way to Biloxi, MS to renew her wedding vows celebrating 10 years of wedding bliss.  To top it off  Mathew will be dropped off at the grandparents for a 3 week vacation which has to be good news for him.
• Donna reports a nice independence day with her brother and sister in-law despite all the wind.  She, also, had a REALLY awesome day trip to the beach with all of the kids and saw a "most beautiful sunset last week on the way back home on the El.  
• Melissa reports that there is her friends have earned their life long dream of acquiring 10 acres of woodland mountains property. To top it off she got to spend a week with them enjoying land.  The trail runner in me would start establishing running trails throughout the place.  I guess there could be other uses for the land as well.
• Maggie is home at last after a very long road trip.  I was glad part of that trip was to visit me.

Okay, the Lebron news was not from last week but it was just so overwhelmingly awesome that it had to be mentions.  But still a great set of good news.  I got to keep this short but I will encourage you to consider donating to the LLS through Donna's page listed above or to someone else you know that may be part of Tnt.  Another suggestion is to consider blood and stem cell donation.  There is a serious blood shortage, especially O negative, and it is stem cells that are being used to cure diseases like blood cancers and things like sickle cell anemia and aids are in the research phases.  So thanks and keep it up.

28 July 2014 Week is Full of Good News

So I hope you all are enjoying the independence day holiday.  For those of you in the Carolinas and south east Virginia please be safe and in a couple of days you will get a chance at a belated holiday celebration.  And you guys in New England watch out it's a coming.  In any case, I should get on with the reminder of all the good news that has happened just a in the previous week.

Good news for the week of 28 July 2014

• So my Psycho turned 12 last week and the very next day my Space and I celebrated our 15th anniversary.   We got a chance to get away for the night and just spend some time with each other.  On top of that we went to the Melting Pot.  That was amazing and very filling.
• Calvin is celebrating the end of summer school and evidently he will never teach 2 summer school classes again.
• Susan got to see how the new CZE instrument works and it is very different that the old ones.  Upgrades are great and Susan reports "Of course it will take over year for all IQ, PQ, validation, comparison studies before can run it for real."  I am not sure I can translate that but it sounds cool.
• Donna has announced the birth of her co-workers baby boy. Also, she is starting to getting herself together.  It is a long journey but she is confident that everything will work out okay.  In addition her second job for a little extra cash is going well.  And for more Sean gets is birthday present today an electric guitar and an amp.  Lets hot it goes up to 11.  Rock on Sean.  Donna I got have some ear plugs if want some.
• Carolyn finished her first triathlon with Team in Training.  Go Team and go Carolyn.  
• Cindy's sister is getting married this Saturday which means her son was due back in town from Florida yesterday.  All that and a three day work week.  What a great confluence of events.  
• Lutz found out that the NSF is funding the STEM education ATE grant that was submitted last October.   That is awesome.  I hope it is successful project.  
• Christina is going to be empty nesters for a week.  I went through that when the Psycho went to resident camp.  It was cool but weird without the her around.  It was also quiet.
• Danielle met up with a friend for a bike ride, finally after three years of saying they should.  Then spent the afternoon at the beach.  At last she did what she promised she wanted to do for the summer break.
• Melissa broke out the bike and shook off 6 years of rust.  Now the clan can ride together.
• Susan came back to let us know that there is only a 3 day work week.  I wish I worked so I could celebrate that.
• Helen had a wonderful weekend with family and friends.  So did I but more on that later.

Well, it seems like you guys have a lot to celebrate.  These are the good things that we need to keep in our thoughts while the rest of the world is going insane.  I remember when I was in a job where I dealt with alot of customer service. And if I didn't know better the company only made crappy products because I was always fixing them.  But at times I was reminded that hundreds of products go out the door that our customers like and continue to buy.  So remember no matter how much crappy news you hear that is generally shoved into you brain there is always something good going on.  Cherish those tiny victories and forget some of the drama.

Good News Weekly 21 June 2014

It is another week and another random day in which I regurgitate the good news that has been shared with me.  I am so happy to have had the energy to put this together today rather than rush it later.  I have been become really into early evening naps.  It turns out that the Spanish may have something worth looking into with a mid-day siesta.  If only we could do that here.  I guess first thing is first with getting better maternity leave like the rest of the industrialized world.  Wait, that is inner monologue stuff and not the drama free tiny victories this post is dedicated to.  I will try to revisit that subject in another post but lets get on with the Good News.

Good News for the Week of 21 June 2014

• Christina is spending quality time with her two favorite guys (aka Y chromosome carriers).  They are heading to the Walla Walla Sweet Onion Festival.  In addition Brian is working diligently on spirit wear for his new gig as WSU Tri-cities Mens Soccer coach and athletic director.  To top it off she has bought a new kayak as a graduation present for herself.  Holy Moley that is a boat load of amazing victories.  I hope the festival was fun and aromatic.
• Melissa had an unexpected financial windfall when a check arrived.  I love it when money mysteriously appears as well.  Mostly, though, my disappears and there is no mystery as to why it is gone.
• Helen reports that Caitlin had her first swim meet of the season.  Totally awesome.  From one swim family to another kick water.  Also, Helen's brother surprised her with a visit while on business from Romania.  I cherish chances to spend time with family as well.
• Jeff had a great time at the end of baseball season Team cookout.  It was a picnic at the park on a peaceful afternoon. 
• Stephanie ran for 30 minutes without stopping.  I will be out there with you soon even if it is for just a walk to start.
• Jen informed us of the end of the dance season with the last dance competition last week.  Liisi and her teammates danced beautifully.Sometimes I wish I could dance.  I can stomp out a mediocre merengue but that is about it.
• Niny has put us on notice that it is almost blueberry season.  I know Space has found a farm or two where we can go picking and i love blueberries.
• Donna has been enjoying the newly wonderful weather as of late and it has led to her getting further trained for her September race.  I will be there cheering you on and perhaps I may bet off my butt and go running with you during your training.  Also, it turns out that her son has just turned twelve.  That is almost teenage; which means he is almost at the pinnacle of knowledge and knowing everything.
• Danielle got a great deal on bins at Costco and is eagerly anticipating organizing the kitchen.

In conclusion, you guys rock.  It is proof positive that we can overshadow the drama and bad news out there with the good things that are happening.  I don't want to diminish the fact that not everything is happy go lucky.  But again it is the tiny victories that keep us going.  Thanks for all of good news and keep it up.

Last Weeks Good News Today

 
It is well past that time again.  It is time I share all of the good news that I have gotten from last week.  We always like to remember those victories that we have had Though I am sure there have been hardships along the way we have to remember that there are good times that may make the darkness seem a little bit brighter.  Way back in the day as I was growing up I was taught that it takes 7 "ataboys" to make up for one "ah shit."  In most senses I think this can be true.  You screw up once and it can erase more than it's share of good work done before.  But in the case of good news and everyday victories with the least amount of drama that trend can be reversed.  We need to continue to bring on more and more "ataboys."
I know this is a little late (again) but as a bonus  I have a few extra bits of good news that came from the week prior that were a little tardy that I will tack on as well.  I hope you enjoy and keep feeding me the good news.

Bonus Good News from the week of 7 June 14

• Josie came back with Dolce and Dave having passed their Therapy Dog testing.  She is now a certified therapy dog and will be giving back to the community.  If you counted eating anything that hit the ground, sitting on you lap and snuggling at every opportunity as therapy than my old Basset "Booger" would have been a master therapy dog. Either way, congrats to Dolce and Dave.
• Helen reports that her husband as well as Kip headed up to Toronto to play in the championship game for the hockey team (part of Hockey North America).  Go Washington Rebels Hockey Club.
• Maggie had a great time on her first visit to New Orleans and got to go on a Ghost Tour.  It is off to Texas for a week then more traveling perhaps up north. 

Good News for the Week of 14 June 14

• After a bunch of looking and missing out on some okay deals Space and I found an amazing replacement for our beat up old '02 Escape.  She was truly "Found On Road Dead"  Space will be enjoying (and taking great care of) our 2010 Kia Soul.  It is cool on the out side but totally funky on the inside.  Another great Duff mobile.  Still working on a name though.
• 
• Erin reports that she has worked out the problem with Dom's meds.  I know how confusing those things can be.  What order, best time of day, with or without food and just interactions like one that is an upper and another trying to put you to sleep can just add to the chaos and make thinks worse.  Either way congrats.  
• Melissa's mother turned 60 years young.  Congrats and remember that it is not the years in your life that count but the life in your years that make all the difference.
• Danielle and Mark helped friends finish the Nursery for the twins coming next month.  What an exciting time.  Also, Paul Konerko hit a solo home run in the ninth.
• Erin had a yummy seafood dinner with her dad for his birthday and fathers day.  
• Though Mandy did not PR she did beat last years time and she had a blast.  The hubby and step kids were there at the finish as Athletic Supporters and the middle step kid has added the race to the list of must dos and is just waiting to ensure the minimum age requirement.  It looks like another generation of slugs is already starting out.
• If you didn't already know Christina wants to remind us that the World Cup has started.  We are all excited and I have already watched some amazing matches.  What a great sport.  
• Jeff go back from a round trip from Petersburg, NJ to pick up his brother for a family visit for the day before he heads back to the Left Coast.  
• Christina came back with a new that her Jonathan rock the house with his beat boxing at the talent show at school.  

That was amazing guys.  Once again I don't think these are really tiny victories but humongous wins.  We are hitting it out of the park with all the great stuff that is happening everyday.  I am glad you are willing to share and let me share it again.  I still haven't worked out the timing on getting these things redistributed and some of that is dependant on how my body wants to cooperate with my brain.  In any case thanks again for everything and no matter what other stuff happens there is always something good going on too.  Till next time, turn that frown upside down.