MoonBlogging

Interview With Keli Carender!

2012-01-09T21:23:00.001-08:00

I interviewed Keli Carender on Saturday. Keli, if you recall, is the organizer of the first Tea Party protest in the nation (before it was even called the Tea Party) in February 2009.

Read it here, at my alottatalk.com website!

Introducting http://www.alottatalk.com

2011-07-05T23:46:00.000-07:00

More later!

In the meantime, check it out

http://www.alottatalk.com

An Exchange With Tim Harris, of REAL CHANGE

2010-06-03T08:09:00.000-07:00

MY E-MAIL TO TIM HARRIS, DIRECTOR OF REAL CHANGE:

Dear Tim,

I have been a patron of "Real Change" here in Seattle since 2001 or so until recently.

I love the model of a homeless person doing a real job, and getting compensated in return. Hopefully, this is a first step for many of these folks getting back into "mainstream" society, and moving on to even better employment, and getting off the streets. Even if this doesn't happen very often, I still like the idea of a man or woman having dignified employment, rather than simply asking for money.

Part of the reason I like the model, is I am a Conservative politically. Your model fits in well with my world view of helping persons to get back into the working world, and the idea of someone striving to improve one's lot in life.

However, after recently reading a few articles recently laced with name-calling toward Conservatives (ie, "Teabaggers"), I have stopped buying the newspaper. It really saddens me, walking past folks out there trying to make an honest living, but I see the paper as hostile toward my point of view and I will no longer support it until civility and balance are restored.

Is this possible? Can you ask your contributors to argue for their point of view, and not denigrate those with opposing views? Or, at the very minimum, refrain from name-calling? Can you find a Conservative advocate for the poor to contribute an article in each issue? (Conservatives tend to give more to charity, you know: http://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2008/03/conservatives_more_liberal_giv.html)

I realize this is Liberal Seattle, but simply a more civil attitude from your contributors could win me back. I've been reading the paper for many years, despite it's Liberal bent. That doesn't bother me. The current lack of civility from your pages does bother me, and I can no longer financially support such a publication.

Please win me back.

Thanks for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Greg Moon
Seattle

TIM'S ENDEARING RESPONSE:

Hi Greg.

We're a progressive community newspaper that fights for social change, and would no more have a conservative columnist than National Review would offer a column to Michael Moore. I wonder if you could offer any other examples of the name-calling you describe. "Teabaggers" is, after all, what one strain of reactionary populism dubs itself, and hardly constitutes a descent into incivility. Thanks for writing.

Best, Tim

Letter to Congressman McDermott

2010-03-14T14:44:00.000-07:00

This "Slaughter" rule being proposed in the House of Representatives is truly frightening, it threatens the foundation of our Republic.

I wrote this to Representative McDermott expressing my concern:

Congressman McDermott,

I have been reading about this proposed "Slaughter" rule in the House that may be used to pass health care. Essentially, the House may "deem" the Senate health care bill to have been passed by the House, without an actual vote of the House on the Senate bill having taken place.

Everything I've read and listened to indicates to me that the use of this rule would be unconstitutional. A basic reading of Article I, section 7 reveals this to be true.

I strongly encourage you not to use any unconstitutional means to help pass health care. The future of our great democratic Republic depends on the preservation of the constitution, which you have swore to uphold and protect.

Thank you,
Greg

Seattle Tea Party - 1 Year On

2010-02-27T15:08:00.000-08:00

UPDATE Feb 28: Story in the Seattle Times. Seems very fair. The estimated the crowd at 250.

I attended my 5th Tea Party protest at noon today. Today's event was fairly low key and quiet, we had no formal speakers, but we did have, by my estimate, around 125 American Patriots willing to sacrifice a Saturday Afternoon in the rain to tell our fellow country men "We gotta stop this insane spending!". The crowd was largely older and white, but I did spot a few younger folks, and non-white folks. There were a few critics driving by in cars, but everything remained pretty cordial.

Opposition to government mandated and run health care was a major theme.

This young man is an Iraq war veteran, who is worried about the course his country is on.

People were very friendly and very polite.

The man 2nd from the left is James Watkins, who is running for Congress in the 1st District of Washington State.

Here's the sign I brought. Get it?

A shot of a small part of the crowd.

Episode IX of Rain City Bunker Posted

2010-02-03T11:35:00.000-08:00

Andy and I just posted Episode IX of our Rain City Bunker Podcast.

We're actually kinda interesting, if I do say so myself!

In this episode, we follow up on a previous discussion about the Large Hadron collider, talk about the "lung flute", a vaccination for cocaine addiction, lab-grown meat, an interesting development in using CO2 in place of petroleum, and alternative energy in general. Listen and let us know what you think!

Wonder Years Songs

2010-01-09T17:45:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year, all!

We all know that time of life when things starts changing significantly as a child. Called the "Wonder Years" by the old TV show. You're growing up, gaining a little independence. The Middle School/Junior High Years, roughly 6th through 8th grades. For me, the first big change was getting my first job, a paper route, in the spring of my 6th grade year. Then, having my first real "crush" around that time.

I got the paper route, with several friends, we met daily at the neighborhood "Paper Shack" were we got our papers. There were some older kids there, too. We were looking forward to Junior High, and we asked the older kids what it was like. Then, the next big change, the Jr. High years (7th and 8th grades)- meeting a bunch of new people from all the different local elementary schools. Instead of one class a day with one teacher, all of sudden there were 6, and you got your own locker. Big changes, indeed!

Anyhow, there are a bunch of songs that remind me of this time. I'm sure you have your own bunch, too! I had just started listening to popular music, and these songs all bring back strong memories of this time of life.

Here's some of my favorites from the time, with links to the Youtube videos (yeah, some are bit corny!).

Supertramp, "The Logical Song"
The Buggles, "Video Killed the Radio Star"
Blondie, "Heart of Glass"
The Pretenders, "Brass in Pocket"
Tom Petty, "Don't Do Me Like That" (My favorite from the time)
The Cars, "Lets Go"
Jefferson Starship, "Jane"
Foreigner, "Mind Games"
Little River Band, "Lady" (Reminds me of the my hopeless first crush.. yes, the video is very geeky!)
Supertramp, "Breakfast in America"
Pink Floyd, "Another Brick in the Wall" (Played endlessly all year in the lunch room in 8th grade)
Little River Band, "Cool Change" (I sure needed "Cool Change"!)
Christopher Cross, "Ride Like the Wind"
Christopher Cross, "Sailing"

Yeah, no AC/DC... I wasn't into the harder rock as you might be able to tell from the selections!

"Passion For Murder" Website Updated!

2009-12-23T14:27:00.000-08:00

My Uncle Eric Miller and I have just completed a major update to our website, Passion For Murder.

Eric is working to complete a new book called, Freud Profiled: Serial Killer (Type: Roman Emperor)

I have read the first chapter, and I think this will be a fascinating, fun read. While very informative, it will be a little less academic than Eric's Passion for Murder.

We have a 20+ page excerpt of the new book, available free of charge, available at the website right now. We expect to have the book finished and published in the Spring of 2010.

As always, we'd like to hear any feedback from you (good, bad or ugly!). Thanks!

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-11-26T11:19:00.000-08:00

Via Gateway Pundit:

On October 3, 1789 President George Washington released this proclamation:

By the President of the United States of America, a Proclamation.

Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor– and whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness.

Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the People of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be– That we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks--for his kind care and protection of the People of this Country previous to their becoming a Nation–for the signal and manifold mercies, and the favorable interpositions of his Providence which we experienced in the course and conclusion of the late war–for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty, which we have since enjoyed–for the peaceable and rational manner, in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national One now lately instituted–for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed; and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and in general for all the great and various favors which he hath been pleased to confer upon us.

And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech him to pardon our national and other transgressions– to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually–to render our national government a blessing to all the people, by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed–to protect and guide all Sovereigns and Nations (especially such as have shewn kindness unto us) and to bless them with good government, peace, and concord–To promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the encrease of science among them and us–and generally to grant unto all Mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as he alone knows to be best.

Given under my hand at the City of New York the third day of October in the year of our Lord 1789.

Old Home Movie

2009-10-19T16:35:00.001-07:00

I was home channel surfing when I came across this video on the Seattle Channel.

It was a home movie someone made of the 1925 City of Seattle Streets and Sewers department company picnic held on August 15, 1925.

I have an interest in old silent movies, and this one really grabbed me due to the insight into "normal" folks and life of this era (as opposed to what we see in the Hollywood movies of the time).

It's 31 minutes long, I watched the whole thing. I hope you enjoy it, too!

Post Pending Legislation Online!

2009-09-25T20:19:00.000-07:00

[Sent this note to my Senators and Representative:]

Dear Congressman McDermott,

When President Obama was campaigning for office, he pledged to post all pending legislation on line. I am very disappointed that this pledge has not come to fruition. This article brought this issue to my attention: http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/blogs/beltway-confidential/Baucus-claims-its-too-difficult-to-put-health-care-bill-online-61246377.html

Please work to post all pending legislation online. We have a government Of the people, for the people, by the people. How can we have that if we don't know what our representatives are voting on?

Thank you,
Greg Moon
Seattle

September 12, 2009 D.C. Tea Party

2009-09-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

I'm very proud to have attended what seems to have been the first "Tea Party" in Seattle on February 16, 2009.

The movement has continued pretty continuously since. Today, it seems at least 10s of thousands or perhaps 100s of thousands and maybe even up to a million mainly ORDINARY Americans have descended on Washington DC to show their disagreement with the Federal Government's HUGE deficits and new, increased spending.

This is a wonderful freedom we enjoy, the right to gather, protest, and speak, whatever the issue.

Update 11:22 AM
Crowd estimated to be 2,000,000!!

Update 9/14/2009 #1
Crowd estimates vary, still. Ranges from 200,000 to 2,000,000, most likely around 400,000.
Still, a HUGE crowd. If it had been for a different cause, say anti-war, it would have gotten a lot more coverage, I think.

Update 9/14/2009 #2
I'm a numbers and statistics geek. A seemingly smart person says 850,000

Photo by Mary Katherine Ham, via Instapundit.

Home From California

2009-08-25T12:11:00.000-07:00

I had a great road trip to California! I stayed the first night in a motel in Yreka, CA. The next morning, I continued on to Cupertino to visit my good friends the Uminos. It was a brief visit, but it is always good to see them! I then drove the rest of the way to San Diego, I arrived around 10:00 PM at my Uncle Butch's.

On Sunday evening, I attended the 50th wedding anniversary of my Aunt Joyce and Uncle Maurice. It was a wonderful party at a nice Italian restaurant in San Diego.

The rest of my stay included fun, humorous and spirited discussions with Uncle Butch, visiting with Cousins Eric, Susan and Rhonda, visiting Uncle Dick and Aunt Joyce.

I stopped in Portland yesterday evening on the way home to see a very good old friend, Dennis. We had dinner and a drink together in Beaverton, OR. I got home last night after stopping to pick up my retriever Midas at my brother's in North Bend. I had a great time, but it's also good to be home!

I'll post some pics later.

"Funemployment" & Heading To California

2009-08-13T23:25:00.000-07:00

My 4 month contract through Excell Data just finished yesterday. I worked with some very bright and funny folks at the job site at IOD. We wrote a lot of great VB.NET code, had a lot of laughs and yes, had a few vigorous political debates. Contracting life is funny- you go somewhere, meet some folks, write some code, then you're gone, and you don't know what's next. Strange, but fun.

The end of the project is at a good time, I've been invited to attend an important family event in Southern California on Sunday. I've decided to drive down (due to the last minute nature of the invite, and the high car-rental costs in So Cal).

I'll hang out down there for a week or so, visiting family and hopefully a few friends along the way. Kinda like a mini version of my grand USA trip last year!
-Greg

Health Care Debate

2009-07-16T23:21:00.000-07:00

I had this exchange on an email thread I've been on since 2004 or so re: Nationalized Health Care:

****************************************************************************

(My friend Larry said): the free market has proven that it cannot run health care.

(Me): You're kidding right? What we need is a FREER market. As it stands, 82% of all Americans have health coverage. I know of NOBODY who has ever gone untreated in this country (with one exception, and that guy was running from the law...). When I was between contracts last year, I CHOOSE NOT TO HAVE coverage for 7 months. Dumb? Maybe. But, a lot of college age kids and young adults CHOOSE not to get coverage. Not a tragedy.

Did I tell you about my friend Dave?

My friend Dave had virtually NO assets, and when he got sick with heart disease and cancer, the government covered him COMPLETELY. The government took care of ALL his hospital bills from 1999 until he died (AS WE ALL WILL) in 2003. The Government covered his housing for a couple years at the end, too. The worst part of the story was the horrific government bureaucracy he had to deal with. He HATED that part. He sank endless hours filling out paper work as he suffered horribly and was on the way to his grave.

I feel bad for Eric's story of the high cost of his ER visit. However, when I got in a car wreck, I had to pay $500 to repair the car. My body is a lot more important to me than my car- I'm willing to pay to keep it (my body) going.

That bottom line is: "What is important to you?" Upholding the constitution and it's guarantees of freedom or a bunch of free goodies?

I'll throw out the quote I've heard from leftist friends re: Bush's wiretapping program:

'Those who would sacrifice freedom for security deserve neither' - Benjamin Franklin

100 Year Annivesary of the Model T

2009-06-27T13:50:00.000-07:00

Most of you know who know me, know that I love history. This little video was really fascinating to me, a brief history of the Model T (1909 to 1928). Almost 15 1/2 million were built! Consider the time, the early 20th century, and your realize that is a HUGE number!

Watch the Video Here!

This Time, Senator Cantwell

2009-06-18T00:07:00.000-07:00

I've almost become an activist!

Dear Senator Cantwell,

I'm very concerned about the story of fired AmeriCorps inspector general Gerald Walpin. I watched him being interviewed this evening on cable television, and he certainly seems like a competent man. This is a very important story, the executive branch may have broken the law by firing him without good reason and without the required 30 day notice.

Even if this firing was legal, it looks suspicious when the President fires someone investigating wrong-doing of a major supporter/contributor.

An opinion I share on this issue:
http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/blogs/beltway-confidential/Fired-AmeriCorps-IG-responds-White-House-charges-are-false-48257187.html

The rule of law is essential in our Constitutional Republic, and no one, even the President, is above the law.

Thank you,
Greg Moon
Seattle

Price Reduced for "Passion For Murder"!

2009-06-17T22:23:00.001-07:00

We've reduced the price of Passion for murder - The Homicidal Deeds of Dr. Sigmund Freud to $14.95! Also, we are selling the electronic version of the book for just $7.95.

As always, Eric Miller provides scads of free essays at the Passion for Muder Website!

The alleged killer:

Yet Another Letter to Senator Murray

2009-06-10T23:49:00.000-07:00

Maybe I'm too concerned, but I just have a bad vibe about the direction of our country. I hope I'm wrong. In any event, I felt compelled to write Senator Murray again.

Here it is:

Dear Senator Murray,

I am writing to express strong concern about the current state of the nation.

Why is the federal government assuming control of our major banks and automobile companies? Why is the federal government considering seizing control of our health care industry?

Why is the federal government going to have a $1.8 trillion deficit THIS YEAR?

I've read several books about the great people who laid out the foundation of our great nation. Adams, Washington, Jefferson & Madison all envisioned a small central government with a careful balance of the various branches of power, and freedom for all. Are we living faithfully to the founding vision of the United States? I'm sad to say, I think not.

I and many of my friends and acquaintances are becoming increasingly alarmed at the rapid expansion of federal power in general, and the executive branch in particular.

Please work hard to preserve our great CONSTITUTIONAL Republic, and the freedoms we enjoy. Please work hard to preserve the vital role of the legislative branch of the government. YOU make our laws!

Thank you for your consideration,
Greg Moon
Seattle

New Podcast Up

2009-05-26T22:32:00.001-07:00

Our 4th episode is up! 1st Show in a month. We recorded on Sunday 5/24.

Topics include:

* Montauk Monster Follow Up
* Bill Gates Releases Mosquitos at a Conference
* "Biohackers"
* Australian SETI Team Finds Possible Sign of Intelligence
* "Urban Phantom" Visits Seattle
* The Funny Stuff That Shows Up on Greg's Street

Another Letter To Senator Murray

2009-05-06T22:25:00.000-07:00

Dear Senator Murray,

I want to thank you for responding each time I've written. I've heard of other politicians who don't, so the effort you and your staff put forth to respond is commendable. Frankly, however, it is sad that other politicians don't know who really is their boss, the People of their State and district.

I want to once again express my concern about the rapidly growing deficit and the growing power and scope of the Federal Government.

I've read several books about our founding fathers, including John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, George Washington and Samuel Adams. What I've come away with from each is their love of personal freedoms and their concern about the power of centralized government. A favorite saying from Thomas Jefferson:

"I am not a friend to a very energetic government. It is always oppressive. "

The congress and the Obama administration seem to be increasing the size, scope and power of the Federal Government at an alarming rate, with an estimated $1,750,000,000,000 (White House est.) to $1,850,000,000,000 (CBO estimate) deficit this year alone.

I pray that you are mindful of these proceedings and work to limit the size and power of the Federal Government, as our Founding Fathers envisioned and hoped.

Thank you,
Greg Moon
Seattle

UPDATE: The Senator's Office Reply (5/7/2009):

Dear Mr. Moon:

Thank you so much for taking the time to contact my office and share your kind words of support. I am very proud to represent Washington state in the Senate, and your encouragement means so much to me.

My work in the Senate is focused on people, and nothing is more important to me than receiving advice and comments from the people of Washington state. I hope you will continue to stay in touch on matters of interest to you, and that you will not hesitate to call on me whenever I may be of assistance.

I would also like to thank you for your concerns regarding government spending and the scope of the federal government. I appreciate hearing your views about this important issue.

As you know, the American economy is suffering from the worst recession since the Great Depression. Millions of people have lost their jobs, thousands of families have lost their homes to foreclosure, and many Americans are struggling to afford basic necessities like food and housing. The federal government has responded by passing stimulus legislation designed to relieve pressure on working families and help put Americans back to work.

In February, Congress passed H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act which funds numerous programs aimed at creating jobs and helping working families during this recession. This bill reinvests in our nation's infrastructure, extends unemployment insurance for laid-off workers and provides tax cuts to families and businesses struggling to make ends meet. Additionally, H.R. 1 focuses on making strategic investments in our economy by funding alternative energy research and development, workforce training, and education. These investments will help lay the foundation for a stronger economy and workforce in the future.

The cost of these programs is significant, and I understand and share your concerns about our national debt and how the federal government uses your tax dollars. During this unique and very difficult time, I believe that these investments are needed to mitigate the economic recession and put Americans back to work. If we do not make these strategic investments, many economists have made it clear our economy will continue to slide further and further into recession.

Lifting our economy out of this recession and helping Americans get back to work are my top priorities. As a United States Senator, I also remain committed to balancing our budget and reducing the national debt. However, I recognize that if we do not make these investments now we may never be able to get our economy going again and focus in on achieving a balanced budget and reducing our national debt.

As the 111th Congress continues, I will continue to work with my Senate colleagues and the Obama Administration to address this economic crisis and make prudent investments to get our economy back on stable ground. As this and other issues are addressed, I will definitely keep your views on government spending in mind. Thank you for sharing your views with me, and please do not hesitate to contact me in the future.

I hope all is well in Seattle.

Seattle Tea Party, 4/15/2009

2009-04-25T18:54:00.000-07:00

Sorry I'm a little tardy with this post, I'm a workin' man again, you know!

I estimated the crowd at the Seattle Tea Party at about 1,600. A lot more than the 2/16/09 protest, where I estimated the crowd at 150 or so!

Some pics:

Amen!

*****************************************

Didn't we hire our representatives to thoughtfully make laws??

*****************************************

Our master-of-ceremony, Liberty Belle!

****************************************

Another "Amen!"

****************************************

No more to say.

Bellevue "Tea Party" 4/15/2009

2009-04-18T11:17:00.000-07:00

I attended 2 TEA ("Taxed Enough Already") parties on April 15, 2009. I'll post about the evening Seattle TEA party in a day or two.

There were 2 TEA parties in Bellevue, WA, one at Noon, and the other at 5:00 PM or so. I attended the noon protest, since my new contract is near downtown Bellevue. I estimated the crowd at 1,000 to 1,300. A buddy I met at the scene estimated the crowd at 600. I'm not an expert, but I am an engineer who loves numbers and statistics, I'm fairly confident with my estimate.

Both estimates are way higher than the Seattle Times estimate of 200! They said:

"Under sunny skies in Bellevue, more than 200 people gathered in a grassy park adjacent to city hall over the lunch hour, protesting government spending and taxes."

They were either intentionally misleading or very lazy in their estimate. Shame on them.

Here's a few pics from the protest.

Just a picture of part of the crowd:

A popular message at the gathering:

I've seen this partiotic flag guy in downtown Seattle a few times, too:

Awesome! "Legalize the Constitution"!

Two like-minded buddies with placards I provided.
"The Founding Fathers Wanted LIMITED GOVERNMENT" &
"WE LOVE AMERICA It's Big Government We Hate!!"

Funniest message of the day:

Easter & Taxes

2009-04-12T22:08:00.000-07:00

First of all, I hope everyone had a great Easter, I certainly did! I arrived early to my church, Union Church, which meets at the Lake Union Armory building, to help a little setting up. We chit chatted, prayed, enjoyed coffee, pastries and fruit for a light breakfast, then the service started and we had wonderful worship music, a reading and a nice message (as usual!). My family didn't have our usual über-family party (the folks and a Stepbrother are in New Orleans, doing the Lord's work helping fix houses damaged by Katrina. Yeah, still!), but I was invited to a great dinner with my Brother-in-Law's family at a home with a nice view of Lake Washington.

If you read this blog, you know I'm concerned about the huge debt this congress and administration are running up. Stuff like this:

really concerns me (and I don't have kids!). For the first time ever, I attended a deficit/tax protest in February. Well, there is a bigger protest being planned on Wednesday, April 15, 2009, and I urge you to attend!

A List of Washington State events can be found HERE.

I'd like to think this issue is bigger than any one party. Almost all the folks representing us in Congress are to blame. However, it's no secret that the folks that attend these deficit/tax protests tend to lean right... but, I'm willing to bet there are some concerned Democrats/left of center folks who are concerned, too.

Happy, civilized and safe protesting!

Introducing The Rain City Bunker Podcast

2009-04-07T10:22:00.000-07:00

4/8/2009 Update:
Episode II is now available!

=============

My buddy Andy and I have decided to start pod casting!

Our web site is called Rain City Bunker, and we started the Rain City Bunker Blog for people to comment on the pod casts. No comments so far... : ( But, we are optimistic we will find a few people (even if just family & friends) who will listen and be entertained.

Andy has a nice Mac with the recording software and equipment, I created the website, and we both "host" the podcast. Each show will be about an hour long.

So far, we just have one episode up. In Episode I, Andy and I introduce ourselves and the show, talk about our approach to the unusual topics we will cover (along with usual topics), unusual events each of us have experienced, talk about a UFO story, and a couple other topics.

We recorded Episode II on 4/5/09, but Andy is working to fix a little technical difficulty before we post it. In Episode II, we interview my Uncle, Eric Miller, about his book & website, Passion for Murder. As readers (I know there's at least 2 or 3 of you!) know, I am working with my Uncle to promote his book.

Actually, the desire to promote the book led to the podcast idea. I told Andy that I was trying to get my Uncle interviewed on the national radio show, Coast to Coast AM. Andy said, "Why don't we interview him ourselves?" and the idea was born.

We were clueless about what to call the show, Andy wanted something about soggy Seattle, moss or the like. When we were setting up in my basement, I said I wanted the name to be something about a basement. Andy then said, "How about 'Rain City Bunker'?" and I loved it and we instantly adopted the name.

Drop by and take a listen!

2 Years In The Community!

2009-03-24T16:41:00.000-07:00

I belong to a very cool church here in Seattle, Union Church, a plant from University Presbyterian Church in the U District. (UPC in turn was originally a plant from Seattle 1st Presbyterian!) We do things a little differently than most churches. On the 1st, 3rd & 5th Sundays, we meet like any other church in worship ("Eternally Connected"). On the 2nd Sunday, we meet, but worship is more focused in small groups & discussions ("Internally Alive"). On the 4th Sundays, we meet together at a home or somewhere in the community ("Externally Focused").

My small group, "Generation to Generation" has been meeting with the wonderful folks at a retirement home in Seattle for 2 years as of last Sunday. We get together and mingle, and sing classic hymns in worship. I finally got around to taking some pics this week!

Leah played the keyboard this week

My pooch Midas visits, too!

Pauline has a lot of love. Holding Josh & Molly's new baby

Pauline, Molly & cute new daughter. This pic captures the spirit of "Generation to Generation"!

Lynn really enjoys Midas!

Tijuana/San Diego Trip

2009-02-27T16:37:00.001-08:00

I just got back from a trip to Tijuana and San Diego! This was my first big trip since I got home from my big around-the-USA trip last spring.

My church, Union Church, sponsored a trip to Tijuana through "Homes Without Boundaries" to build a home for a qualified family. Since I signed up to go, I decided to spend a few days afterward in San Diego where I have some family.

A group of about 15 of us flew down to San Diego on Wednesday 2/18, stayed at La Jolla Presbyterian in La Jolla on Wednesday night, then drove down to Tijuana on Thursday morning. On Thursday, we worked on mixing the concrete in the foundation forms. It included a lot of shoveling and mixing- it's hard work! After work was completed on Thursday, we headed to a local orphanage that has been hosting groups like ours for years.

On Friday, we started working on the framing and painting the siding. By the end of the day on Friday, we had the walls up. On Saturday, we worked on putting up the roof and windows.

On Sunday, we came in to finish the roofing work and install bunk beds for the children. We took pictures, then said our goodbyes and headed for home.

Kudos to the folks on the team who really knew what to do! (Most of us were grunts :) What an amazing experience joining together to help folks in need.

I stayed with my Uncle Butch in San Diego from Sunday until I headed home on Thursday. I had a great time visiting my cousins Eric & Susan, Uncle Dick & Aunt Suzie and Aunt Joyce & Uncle Maurice. I really feel at home in San Diego, it's a beautiful part of the country.

Dissent Is Patriotic!

2009-02-16T14:40:00.000-08:00

I attended my first protest today. A group of concerned citizens met down at Westlake Park in downtown Seattle today starting around noon (With all the appropriate permits), to protest the Federal Boondoggle knows as the 2009 "Stimulus Bill". On the conservative side of the isle, it's know as "Porkulus" or "Spendulus". I estimated the crowd at 125 to 150 or so.

It was organized by Liberty Belle a local conservative blogger. I found out about the protest via one of my favoite bloggers, Michelle Malkin.

The protest was mainly peaceful, with 2 fairly minor exceptions. 1, a Lib took the stage uninvited and started shouting something to the effect "Where were you in the last 6 years under Bush?". He was convinced to leave the stage, totally non-physically (as far as I saw). There was another heckler there, shouting comments from the side, eating the free food donated by Michelle Malkin. When he left, he left his garbage on the steps. When someone nicely asked him to take it, he said to the effect, "No Way!"

Here are some of the pics I took:

The protesters gathered close to the stage at the end.

An attractive bunch of anti-pork protesters.

Just say no to giant pork bills!

The youngest (and quite possibly cutest) protester.

Liberty Belle doing her thing, leading the protest!

Little 'ol me, holding my hand made protest sign. I feel so patriotic!

The party crasher who ate free food then left his garbage on the steps.

UPDATE 11:05 PM PST:

Thanks for the link, Gateway Pundit! (one of my favorite blogs)

A lot more pics on Flickr

Video on Seattle's KIRO 7, via Michelle Malkin

UPDATE 2/17/09

Another good blog post, via Michelle Malkin

Fun Stuff

2009-02-14T12:14:00.000-08:00

We can all be a Messiah, now!

This just seems right

2009-02-14T02:36:00.000-08:00

As the Democrats pass their phenomenally stupid and short sighted $787,000,000,000.00 "Stimulus" this song seems appropriate:

God Save the Republic.

Latest Essay At My Website, "Passion For Murder"

2009-02-07T12:38:00.000-08:00

My Uncle Eric has a new essay listing the victims of Dr. Freud at our website. It's short and fascinating, take a gander!

"Stimulus" Perspective

2009-01-30T14:42:00.000-08:00

My Email to My Senators

2009-01-30T00:38:00.000-08:00

Please contact Senators Murray and Cantwell to express your opinion on the proposed multi-hundred billion "stimulus" package.

I wrote them tonight:

Dear Senator,

I'm writing to express concern for the huge stimulus bill you will be considering shortly.

Please work to ensure that the bill is as efficient and small as possible. Please don't allow project that won't help the economy recover, such as birth control or funding of ACORN.

Please ensure that a lot of the money goes to energy and infrastructure projects- things that can help America's economy become more efficient and reliable.

I just read an article titled "US-EU trade war looms as Barack Obama bill urges 'Buy American' The prospect of a trade war between the US and Europe is looming after "Buy American" provisions were added to President Barack Obama's $820 billion (£573 billion) stimulus package." in the British paper the Telegraph.

While I'm not an historian, I understand trade wars were partially responsible for the Great Depression, and it seems prudent to avoid the path of a new trade war.

Thank you for your SERVICE to the PEOPLE of the great State of Washington.

Sincerely,
Greg Moon

$819,000,000,000.00

2009-01-28T20:20:00.000-08:00

The house just approved a $819 some BILLION financial "Stimulus" today. The Senate can block it (but probably won't) but they may cut some of the worst of it.

A friend reminded me of this very appropriate quote from one of the founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, who also happened to be a genius:

"When the people find that they can vote themselves money, that will herald the end of the republic. "

I'm not thinking that the United States will collapse at any time now, but if this bill passes, we are on the road to Lord-knows-what, but possibly a European style democratic socialism. That would be a stake in the heart of the worlds largest and most dynamic economy. Europe, while not poverty stricken, survives with an unemployment rate

I've heard a lot of analysts saying that a big portion of this money won't become available until well over a year from now, and the recession should be (fingers crossed) over by then.

This is pork-barrel politics at it's worst. A lot of this money will go to trivial things, and the bill is not really designed to "stimulate" the economy. It is political money going to those who are politically connected. If you don't think Acorn is politically biased, watch this, and read this.

I seem to remember a lot of gnashing of teeth and ripping of garments over the cost of the Iraq war (less than $600 Billion, spent over a six year period). We're preparing to spend $819 billion in the flash of an eye. Where are those people now?

Working In Downtown Seattle

2009-01-24T12:14:00.000-08:00

Well, my contract with the City of Seattle will be up soon, on February 13th.

I will miss downtown, I usually enjoy my bus ride, which gives me a chance to get a big chunk of reading done everyday. There are a lot of great places to go for lunch. An Indian/Pakistani place, Café Zum Zum, is my favorite. I've run into a few old friends downtown, and sometimes go to lunch with a friend who works nearby.

I work in the Seattle Municipal Tower, the building in the middle.

Greg On TV!

2009-01-12T19:30:00.000-08:00

I was interviewed for a news story today on the local news, KOMO channel 4!

Screen shot:

See the whole fabulous interview!

I'm so proud... I think I came across just a little smarter than President Bush : )

Banned From Little Green Footballs!

2009-01-07T19:50:00.001-08:00

Pardon the following rant. I just want to get this on the internet in case folks have had a similar experience on the web.

I love to surf news sites and political blogs. I enjoy the perspective and analysis, and the back-and-forth of posting with other folks around the country.

One of the blogs I've enjoyed a lot for the last few years is Little Green Footballs, created and maintained by Charles Johnson.

I hadn't posted there in quite awhile, when I thought I'd throw my 2 cents in on his "The 2008 Weblog Awards" post. I said (You can read it all if you were so inclined) something to the effect of "I love this site, but I think Charles focuses a little too much on the Creationism/Intelligent Design issue." After that, all bets were off! I was, for lack of a better word, "blog-swarmed". The LGF minions "attacked" me, using profanity and referring to me as a "troll" (Which, in the blog commenting world, is a great insult!). It was late, and there was nothing I could say to ease their anger, so I signed off shortly thereafter.

The next day I went to see what else had gone on, and another poster with the screen name "Motorcycleboy" had written a sharp, but not over-the-top (in my view) parody of LGF's position on the Creationism/Intelligent Design. Once I saw that, I posted that it was funny and accurate (I wanted to defend him, since he had defended me the previous evening). Well, I should have looked at the posts that came just after... Charles banned "Motorcycleboy". Then I thought to myself, "Wow, I bet I was banned too".

Turns out I was:

A few of things, here.
1) I have almost the identical position on the issue as LGF (Which is, don't teach creationism/Intelligent Design in public school science classes). I'm simply not as adamant about the issue as they are. I'd dare say they are fanatical about that issue.

2) Perhaps it was because I was posting at night that I seemed to get the crazies, but I got a very cult-like vibe of "Tow the line, or be cast out!". Charles has a bit of a cult of personality thing going over there (whether he meant to create one or not is another question). That is never healthy, in my view- whether it be worship of a celebrity, politician or anyone else.

3) Charles Johnson is famous, and has appeared on national broadcasts. When you get to that level, don't you need to be willing to engage, and take a little hit now and then? Is his skin really so thin he'd ban someone for saying a parody of him was funny? Well, I know the answer to that last one.

Crazy December/Wonderful Holidays/Happy New Year 2009

2009-01-01T11:55:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all my family & friends!

Most of you live in the Seattle area, so you know about the week of snow we recently lived here! We had 2 big snow events on Dec 20th and 21st.

Greg & Niece at Stepsister Mary's House

I measured 9" at my home in North Seattle. For Seattle, that's pretty significant. And it was cold for a whole week, which is very rare around here and the snow was everywhere for 7 days. I was pretty fortunate, I was able to get around by bus to work and by car to do little errands around my part of town. I did miss work one day of work on Monday December 22nd, after a valiant 2-hour adventure trying to get downtown for work. I did catch a bus, but the chains snapped, so we all had to get off the bus. I then journeyed to a busier arterial and waited and waited for a bus for 40 minutes, but none came. I started marching home, and did see a bus, but it was so full, it just roared by. I threw in the towel, and went home for the day.

The holidays were wonderful as usual. The Christmas Eve event was held at my Dad's as is traditional. My step mom made her usual wonderful meal of breads, cheeses, meats, and cookies. The folks,

The snow was beautiful, if inconvenient

My stepbrothers John & Peter, Brother Scott and Family, John's wife Kelli and two of her friends, the folks' neighbor Sanjay, and my buddy Andy were all there. Afterwards, we all went to the Buckaroo Tavern, which is also traditional (yeah, really!). We had beers and played pool : )

On Christmas day, a big chunk of the family met at the folks again for the wonderful Christmas breakfast my Step mom Elizabeth makes each year. I went home, chilled, wrapped presents, then drove to Stepsister Mary's beautiful home in Edmonds where the whole family met for the main Christmas gathering, complete with a wonderful dinner.

New Year's eve was pretty mellow. I met my friends Andy and Kim for a pretty good Chinese dinner at Moon Temple in Wallingford, then Andy & I hit the local May Thai restaurant for a couple drinks to ring in the New Year. I was home and asleep by 1:00 AM.

Wishing you all a wonderful, peaceful and prosperous 2009!

Passion For Murder Site Updated

2008-12-07T19:11:00.000-08:00

We've spruced up Passion for Murder a little. I've read the book, it's a good read with very interesting revelations about the Father of Psychoanalysis.

If you order a book, please tell me about the experience!

Passion For Murder, The Homicidal Deeds of Dr. Sigmund Freud

Salmon Spawning in Piper's Creek!

2008-11-30T17:39:00.001-08:00

Very near my home is Carkeek Park, which is the home of Piper's Creek. About 12 years ago, the creek was stocked with Salmon. The Salmon have been returning to spawn regularly ever since.
This is very exciting to me, living in the middle of a big city, and Salmon are spawning about a mile and half away!

Thanksgiving is the "peak" of the spawning season. I headed down to the park today to check it out. The pictures of the fish didn't come out so great, but here they are!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-26T20:18:00.001-08:00

Seems people weren't so frightened about a "theocracy" when public officials were blatantly faithful in the past.

President Lincoln, 1863:

By the President of the United States of America.

A Proclamation.

The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God. In the midst of a civil war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union. Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defence, have not arrested the plough, the shuttle or the ship; the axe has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battle-field; and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom.

No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the United States to be affixed.

Done at the City of Washington, this Third day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the Independence of the Unites States the Eighty-eighth.

By the President: Abraham Lincoln

William H. Seward,
Secretary of State

Supreme Court To Review Obama's Citizenship

2008-11-19T22:45:00.000-08:00

A case that challenges President-elect Barack Obama's name on the 2008 election ballot citing questions over his citizenship has been scheduled for a "conference" at the U.S. Supreme Court.

Conferences are private meetings of the justices at which they review cases and decide which ones to accept for formal review. This case is set for a conference Dec. 5, just 10 days before the Electoral College is scheduled to meet to make formal the election of Obama as the nation's next president.

Read it all

Update 1/1/2009:
The Supreme Court declined to take this case. I was not a big believer in this line of questioning, but posted this for others at a political blog I frequent. I think there is little to no reason to think Barack wasn't born in Honolulu, where both of his parents lived when he was born.

Congratulations, President-Elect Obama

2008-11-04T22:33:00.001-08:00

Well, my guy lost. However, America has taken a huge step in living up to the promise of it's founding: Anyone, regardless of race (and I also think, regardless of sex) can become the President of the United States of America.

God bless America, and God bless President-Elect Obama. I was encouraged by his victory speech, where he referred to Lincoln, and his role in preserving the nation and freeing the slaves.

New "Passion For Murder" Blog Post

2008-11-02T18:54:00.000-08:00

Take a look at the latest from my uncle, Eric Miller, at the Passion For Murder blog. In this post Eric briefly makes the case he makes in his book Passion For Murder that Dr. Sigmund Freud was a serial killer.

An excerpt:

In Passion for Murder I wanted to get on record my thesis and the foundation evidence. Actually, I think a careful study of my book does offer sufficient proof that Freud looks like a serial killer, walks like a serial killer, and quacks like a serial killer--now I will follow up with detailed info of those he killed. In 1984 the criterion for indentifying a serial killer had not yet been developed by the Behavioral Science Unit of the FBI at Quantico laboratories. That actually came out in late 1984, after publication for my work. This is a great boon for me. I spoke in PFM of Freud's Homicidal Mania, We have learned a great deal about serial killers since publication of my work. And I myself was amazed at how Freud's hand (unlike O.J.'s?) fit into the glove. The focus of the serial killer profile now offers a great opportunity to show how Freud absolutely fits the profile--indeed, one might say the profile was made to fit!

This is fascinating stuff!

Fall, 2008

2008-10-29T21:47:00.001-07:00

Fall is my favorite season! Here are some photos from around my neighborhood.

107th Street. The city planted a bunch of trees in 2004.

Midas next to a brilliant red tree. It's easy to get Midas to pose!

Midas at the local park.

Neighbor's tree in brilliant fall colors

Beware of the Sarah Palin Carpet!

2008-10-24T21:08:00.000-07:00

If you can't read the headline in the upper middle, it says "Goalie hurt by Palin's carpet?"

Beware of Palin's carpet! (Yahoo!, 9/24/2008, 9:10 PDT)

Update: A close up

London, 1904

2008-10-24T20:59:00.001-07:00

Powerline had this video, and I had to post it here. I am an old-film fanatic. This is one of the best little clips from so long ago I've ever seen. Check it out.

Very cool!

Iowahawk Is Funny!

2008-10-21T20:55:00.001-07:00

Iowahawk Rules!

Snippet of his parody of Slow Joe Biden speaking:

"I'm not going to lie to you - it doesn't take a weatherman to know that hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, a hard rain is gonna fall, all along the watchtower," said the Delaware Senator, strumming on a pantomime guitar. "There will be a point -- maybe one week, maybe two weeks after the inauguration -- when the opinion polls will look bad. Really horribly bad. Despite our best efforts, a couple of mid-size cities will inevitably be vaporized. People will be complaining. 'Why are you nationalizing the Safeway?' 'When is Omaha going to stop glowing?' 'Why do the Chinese soldiers keep asking for my papers?' When this happens, we will need you to keep supporting us because, trust me, you really won't want to be observed not supporting us."

Wonderful, Google, Keep up the Good Work

2008-10-19T20:11:00.001-07:00

I was cruising google maps, and I clicked on the electoral vote estimate map (electoral vote estimate link on the left), thinking it'd be fun to check it out.

Check the photo of McCain they chose.

Wonderful.

What's happened to civility in this country?

Stuff like this is the reason why I tend to use Yahoo! for searches about 95% of the time, NOT GOOGLE.

Full disclosure: This blog is on blogspot, a google property : (

The Coveted Moon Endorsement!

2008-10-19T12:14:00.000-07:00

I hate to admit it, I'm not so much for John McCain as I am against Barack Obama. There is a huge list of things that concern me about Obama, but I lay out only the major ones here. The following reasons make me question his fitness to be the President of the United States:

1) His record as THE MOST LIBERAL of all US Senators in 2007. As Obama admitted to Joe the Plumber, he wants to "spread the wealth around". I prefer keeping as much of the free will God gave us, and letting individuals "spread the wealth" around as they see fit.

2) His questionable judgement in associating with radicals, racists and crooks, people like
* Frank Marshal- friend,
* William Ayers - former (But unrepentant) domestic terrorist,
* Beradine Dohrn - Ayers' partner in crime and wife ,
* Reverend Wright - Obama's infamous former pastor of TWENTY YEARS,
* Reverend Pfleger - radical Catholic Priest (who gave a pretty interesting sermon at Obama's former church) ,
* Tony Rezko - Convicted felon and major Obama fundraiser,
* Larry Walsh - political ally and friend in the Illinois State Senate,
* Rashid Khalidi - an anti-Israeli friend,
* ACORN - Obama worked as a community organizer and attorney for these guys, now under investigation in several states for voter registration fraud.

The question is not just his judgment, but that he minimizes his relations with these people. He's being deceptive. People deserve a little latitude about their associations, but there is a real and alarming trend here.

3) He reneged on his pledge to use public campaign funds. We want to trust the word of our leaders.

4) His campaign used 3rd world thug tactics in trying to shut down free speech in Missouri and Chicago to stifle dissent. Hey, I thought dissent was patriotic! This is really alarming to me. If elected, what else will he do to squelch dissent?

You may notice I don't list "lack of experience". I don't think that is really an issue, JFK and Bill Clinton weren't real experienced, and they were capable Presidents. It can be argued (but never is in the MSM) that Sarah Palin has MORE exeperince (certainly as an executive) than Obama. In any event, the lack of extensive experience isn't so big a deal to me.

John McCain has served his country his entire life in the Military and Government. He is the leading crusader in the Senate against earmarks (pork barrel spending), and he himself has never sought an earmark for his state of Arizona. He favors fiscal responsibility. Also, John McCain sounded the alarm about Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae in 2006. Whereas, Obama is the 2nd largest recipient in the Senate of FM&FM money, behind just Christopher Dodd, chairman of the FM&FM oversight committee. FM & FM are at the heart of the current financial mess the country finds itself in.

My Endorsement goes to John McCain.

"Passion For Murder" Now Available!

2008-10-18T09:12:00.000-07:00

I'm very excited to announce that NEW, high-quality facsimile copies of my Uncle's 1984 book "Passion for Murder" are now available to the public through our self-publisher and sales agent, Lulu.com! We're selling the copies at $19.95. Copies of the original editions are selling on the internet for up to $200.

Please visit our website, www.passionformurder.com for details.

Thanks!

Eliteism isn't Pretty

2008-10-17T00:55:00.001-07:00

Unbelievable to me.

A Presidential candidate mocks a working class profession.

New Biofuel Refinery in Tennessee

2008-10-15T10:59:00.000-07:00

Readers of the blog probably can tell I'm not a proponent of the notion of "Man made global warming", HOWEVER, I am very much in favor of alternative energy sources like nuclear, wind, solar, biofuels and all the rest- Just to be on the safe side re: MMGW, and for national security reasons.

So, I think this is good news!

(I found the story at Instapundit)

New Post on Passion For Murder Blog!

2008-10-13T13:47:00.001-07:00

Pretty interesting stuff!

Serial killer profile and how Freud fits the profile

"Kids For Obama" Day at Greenlake in Seattle

2008-10-12T15:48:00.000-07:00

This is my first stab at "citizen journalism", and, well I left the experience with a lot to be desired... first of all my camera didn't work, and secondly, I didn't talk to anyone. What I'm left with are my low-res camera phone pics, and my impressions. For what it's worth.

I arrived at 2:10 PM and left around 2:30 PM, and I estimated the crowd at about 300 people. I noticed about 5 other folks just drifting around like me photographing the scene. I overheard one of the photographers asking another if he was with The Seattle Times, and he said "No". Folks were trickling in the whole time I was there.

I'd say the overall feeling was one of subdued celebration. No chanting or speeches or any marching when I was there. There were a bunch of red, white and blue balloons (with no slogans) and I'd say about half the kids had Obama T-shirts and/or signs. The signs were fairly innocuous and cliché, sayings things like "Obama for Change", "Obama for the Future" and one kid had a sign that said, "Obama Rocks". There were 2 crafts tables for kids, and the kids were creating
various things, mainly Obama posters.

There was no food available when I was there. The Obama campaign would have done well giving away hot dogs or something similar. It would have created some good will with me as I was hungry ; )

UPDATE 10:55 PM:
A fellow local blogger was there covering the story, too. There was more to the gathering than what I documented, I guess the crowd DID "march" (walk in a procession bearing a lot of Obama signs). He did a much better job than me, he had better pictures and even shot a video!

UPDATE 10/13/08:
Another blogger's coverage. Score for citizen journalism! I haven't found any MSM coverage yet.

There were a lot of "I Love Obama" signs

People mainly seemed to be milling about. The "march" part of the program probably started after I left (If there was one at all).

More love for Obama, as experessed by a young child.

At least this Obama supporter has the good sense to love Golden Retrievers.

I took this one from the north when I arrived.

Lots of balloons- there were no slogans on them as far as I could see.

Just seemed like a lazy day at the lake, with some balloons and Obama propaganda thrown in.

Early October Snow in Boise

2008-10-11T21:50:00.000-07:00

Earliest snow in Boise, Idaho's history.

Anecdotal, sure, but I see enough stuff like this to make me question the whole man-made global warming thing. Belief in MMGW seems to have become a sort of secular religion.

Read the Story Here

And, it turns out, some science is showing global cooling in the last year.

Truth From A Congressman?

2008-10-08T14:12:00.000-07:00

A brave congressman, taking blame on behalf of congress re: the Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac fiasco that is at the heart of the current economic mess.

It rings true to me:

My Other Blog

2008-09-28T15:05:00.000-07:00

I mentioned this below, but I want to highlight the fact that we've added a NEW BLOG to our website, "www.passionformurder.com"

Please visit, comment, and tell folks that might be interested in this very controversial and interesting topic (Freud was a serial killer).

Passion For Murder- The Blog

Thanks!

At long last, the house has been painted!

2008-09-24T12:23:00.000-07:00

The garage doors with red trim

View from the east

View from the south

I've been toiling on this thing since early July! I finished just a few days ago. I sure hope this paint job lasts 10 years or more...

I call the new color "Curry" but I've heard it called "Baby Poo". I prefer "Curry" : )

www.passionformurder.com Updated!

2008-09-20T19:04:00.001-07:00

My Uncle Butch and I are very excited about our latest update to our website, Passion For Murder.

We have a new, cleaner, easier-to-read look, added content, but we're mostly excited about our new blog, where Butch will journal about his latest research into Sigmund Freud and his homicidal deeds and the conspiracy to cover Freud's tracks.

We will have the book ready for purchase soon. I have a proof copy, and it looks very good and seems to be very well made. Compared to my old, worn out and faded original copy, this one really shines! Whether we sell any books or not, we are excited to get the word out about Sigmund Freud via our website. Please help spread the word for us!

My Resumé

2008-09-18T17:55:00.000-07:00

Here's my resume, in case any of you know someone hiring software engineers!

GREGORY C. MOON

Software Engineer

Seattle Area
gmoonster@comcast.net

Overview

I have worked in the IT field since 1996. I possess an unusual combination of great technical skills and great interpersonal skills. A Graduate of the University of Washington College of Civil Engineering (1990) I have had careers in Environmental Engineering, Marketing and Sales, Technical Recruiting and most recently, 10 years in Software Engineering. I'm very skilled, reliable, flexible and diplomatic, and can fulfill various roles within your technical department as a Software Engineer. Excellent references available. I left my former job in March, 2008, to travel extensively and work on my home. I am now ready and eager and excited to find a new and challenging software engineering position.

Education

1990 University of Washington, Department of Civil Engineering BSCE 1997 University of Washington Extension, C Programming Certificate
2002 XML NetDesk Programming Course
2003 VB.NET NetDesk Programming Course

Experience

2002-2008 Grange Insurance Association, Software Engineer

Work: Designed, wrote, tested and maintained many custom applications and some web pages. From 2004 on, I was the lead for the company's "data calls", which are required detailed data reports provided to insurance organizations and state governments. When I began working on the data calls, the SQL systems the company used to report the data were complicated, fragmented, labor intensive, and bug-filled. After my tenure, the systems were largely automated, consolidated, easy to use, and reliable. I took the initiative to create a comprehensive document to detail all important information about the data calls. That document was well received by both co-workers and management.

Tools: VB.NET, VB 6.0, embedded SQL, SQL Stored Procedures, C#.NET, ASP ("classic"), ASP.NET, SQL Reporting Services, MS Access, MS Excel, Crystal Reports

2000-2001 Solutions (Through Atea), Contract Software Engineer

Work: Mainly maintenance (several daily bug fixes) and some development work

Tools used: Visual Basic 6.0, C#.NET Beta, SQL Stored Procedures, MS Access

1999-2000 NVST.com, Software Engineer

Work: My main task was to create and maintain web pages, and I wrote some custom Windows internal tools for the staff.
Tools used: VB 6.0, ASP ("classic"), SQL

1998-1999 Avatar Consulting, Software Engineer

Work: Worked with a team that created a MS Windows-based program for Safeco Insurance agents to generate quotes and create new business. My task was to create a "Wizard" to import existing client data from the previous DOS version of the program.

Tools used: Visual Basic 5.0 & 6.0

1997-1998 Source Services, Technical Recruiter

1996-1997 XIT Systems (a contract software engineering firm), Co-owner, Office and Marketing & Sales Manager

1991-1996 Golder Associates, Project Hydrologist

Iraq War Continues to Wind Down

2008-09-08T12:53:00.000-07:00

I was wondering about the latest casualties in Iraq, and I found that CNN keeps track

In August, 2008 there were a total of 23 US casualties in Iraq, only 14 of which were combat-related.

So far in September, 2008, (as of 9/8/2008) there has only been 1 US casualty and that was not combat-related.

UPDATE (9/15/2008). There have only been 2 US combat-related casualties in the first half of September 2008.

Update (10/1/2008). There were 23 US fatalities in Iraq in September. 6 were combat related fatalities and 17 were non-combat fatalities.

Headline News

2008-09-07T14:32:00.001-07:00

I wonder- was Barrack's first year at anything (Community Organizer, State Senator, US Senator) turbulent?

Read the Seattle Times story

Very Exciting VP Pick!

2008-08-29T11:34:00.000-07:00

I don't want to do much politics on this blog, but I am very happy about McCain's VP pick...

McCain has shown courage and made a somewhat risky but exciting choice. The GOP base is excited with this choice, after fearing that McCain would "diss" them with his VP pick. Governor Palin brings an historic note to the GOP ticket, a counter the historic Obama candidacy. This pick also puts some disgruntled Hillary voters up for grabs.

I'm very impressed with Governor Palin. The mother of 5, her youngest is disabled, and one of her sons joined the Army on 9/11 of last year, and will soon be deployed to a combat zone overseas. She's been a town council member and mayor and Governor of Alaska. She's articulate, humble, tough and bright.

She has a lot of courage, and has fought the establishment in Alaska- including frosty relations with Alaska Pork King, Ted Stevens. She has visited the Alaska national guard in Kuwait

It's gonna be a very interesting next few months!

Fantasy Football Draft, Decatur Island

2008-08-27T21:13:00.000-07:00

I went to Decatur Island in the San Juans last weekend with a bunch of buddies for our annual "Fantasy Football Draft". I went up Friday morning (alone), and most of us left late Sunday morning. I share a fantasy team with my buddy Vince, and this was our 4th draft (we were finally allowed to join this elite league in 2005). It is a big highlight of the year- spending time with good friends, playing volleyball, tennis and horseshoes, boating, swimming, eating great food, drinking great drinks, staying up late playing poker and of course, the centerpiece of the weekend, our 3 hour draft on Saturday morning! We are very fortunate to have a buddy whose family has this great cabin on the island. The boat ride up, the solitude of the place (very few vehicles on the island), the friends and the ride home add up to an amazing time.

It's a bit bittersweet, though, the Decatur trip signals the end of summer and the beginning of the fall NFL season. And for me, especially this year, it signals the begginning of the end of an amazing time of life, my big USA trip, freedom from the work world, hanging with friends and working on the house. I'll be doing my resume up soon and looking for a new job. Let me know if you know anyone that needs a good .NET programmer!

Paper or Plastic? That'll be 20 cents, please

2008-07-28T19:33:00.000-07:00

This blows my mind:

Seattle Times Story about bag fee and foam ban

**********

Seattle approves bag fee and foam ban

Beginning in January, shoppers must pay 20 cents for each plastic or paper bag they use at grocery, drug and convenience stores in Seattle. The Seattle City Council this afternoon also passed a ban on foam containers at food-service businesses that will take effect in January.

By Sharon Pian Chan

Seattle Times staff reporter

Beginning in January, shoppers must pay 20 cents for each plastic or paper bag they use at grocery, drug and convenience stores in Seattle.

The Seattle City Council this afternoon also passed a ban on foam containers at food-service businesses that also will take effect in January.

The city will distribute at least one free reusable bag per household, and it will consider providing more free bags to low-income shoppers.

"This is a voluntary fee," said Council President Richard Conlin, who worked with Mayor Greg Nickels on the proposal. "No one has to pay it. You only have to pay it if you choose not to use reusable bags."

**********

If plastic and paper bags are now officially deemed a threat by the glorious Seattle City council, and must be taxed out of existence, what is next? Banning smoking in restaurants and bars? Oh, yeah, they've done that already. Ban fires on the beaches (due to the emissions of CO2, dontcha know)? They'll take that up again next year. Installing cameras in your home to ensure proper thinking and speaking? OK, I made that one up...

Kayaking!

2008-07-11T17:57:00.001-07:00

My friend Mike invited me to go kayaking with him today at Greenlake (him and his wife each have a kayak, so he had one to loan). We loaded up the gear and headed to Greenlake at 10:45 AM. We got there, unloaded, and went kayaking around the lake from about 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. I crossed the lake a few times, cruised the shore and Mike went fishing. He caught a nice trout (which he fried up for lunch when we got back). I've been canoeing before, and enjoyed it, but I forgot how much fun it is, this trip was a blast today! It was sunny, warm and a bit breezy. Great therapy & exercise, being on the water. The views of the city from Greenlake are great. I'm looking forward to the next trip!

My Rock Star Step-Brother John

2008-07-06T17:22:00.000-07:00

I was a bit surprised but very proud and pleased to read this in the local music tabloid here in Seattle:

Friday 7/4

The Model Rockets, the Tripwires, Doll Test

(Tractor) If the words "Seattle," "power pop" and "genius" are used in the same sentence, there's a good chance that John Ramberg is the topic of conversation. Lately, the genre's secret weapon/superhero has most frequently been spotted fronting the Tripwires and rocking out with the Minus 5. Tonight, however, he's reconvened his old band, the Model Rockets, and they're going to knock your socks off. Far from being a stroll down memory lane, this is a reunion that should get your blood pumpin' and your body movin' and a-shakin'. The Model Rockets always emphasized the "power" in "power pop," and their '60s-inspired pop gems had just the right amount of dirt under their fingernails. They still do. Barbara Mitchell

http://www.thestranger.com/seattle/Content?oid=612025&ms

Yay, John!! No one's ever called me a "genius" haha

I'm sorry I missed the show, but I always enjoy seeing John's bands live.

A friend asked me just last night why I'm not famous- my brother Scott is locally famous as a motorbike racing genius and John as a musical genius. I guess natural gifts aren't always distributed evenly... However, I do have the natural ability to Russian dance which makes me the "funny human tricks" guy at many a wedding and parties!

Passion For Murder

2008-07-01T15:30:00.000-07:00

I have been keeping busy with my time off : ) I've been working on a website with my Uncle Butch to promote his book, "Passion For Murder: The Homicidal Deeds of Dr. Sigmund Freud". Butch wrote and published the book back in 1984. It is well documented and researched.

When I visited Butch in March, he showed me that copies of the original publication are selling for over $100 on the internet. That of course sparked my interest, and I offered to work with him to promote the book. He happily agreed.

A fruit of that labor is www.passionformurder.com, which we just launched today! Please take a look and give me any feedback you'd like to give (good, bad or ugly!).

My Cat Beano, 1993-2008

2008-06-26T16:28:00.000-07:00

I'm sad to announce today was Beano's last day on earth.

My sister got Beano (she named him!) when he was just a little kitten on or around 1993. Eva had rented from me for a long time, and when she bought her own place in 2001, she asked me to keep Beano. I'm not a big cat fan, but Beano was a tough, independent outdoor cat, and I agreed to adopt him. Beano enjoyed a little affection now and then, but never demanded attention. He was a warrior- he was always fighting some creature or another (usually other cats, I think). His ears bore the marks of a lifetime of battle.

This was only the 2nd time I've had a pet put down- it's a tough thing to do, as everyone knows. But, Beano was worn out. He wasn't eating, skinny as a rail, he was uncomfortable and just wasn't his old self. I cried a few tears as his life slipped away in the Vet's office, and afterward. Beano was a great old cat. This picture was taken about an hour before he went on to cat heaven. I now see how tired he was. Rest in Peace, Beano!

Of Massages and Gas Prices

2008-06-03T17:25:00.000-07:00

I have this blog now, so I decided to post a little now and then about various topics. I want the posts to be pretty much about everyday life, with a few current events, politics and religion tossed in.

I've settled back into life in Seattle. I helped my buddy Tim build a rock garden at his house, done some yard work at my house, and have started working on a web page for/with my Uncle Butch. I love the time off, and am in no hurry to get back to work... but I realize I'll need a job within a couple months. Life is good! (for now : )

I got my first professional massage today- it was great, well worth the price (intro price of $49). I tweaked my shoulder a year ago (while training for the Seattle to Portland bike ride), and it hasn't been the same since, so I decided to see how massage therapy works for me. I think it's helped the shoulder, but the relaxation you get made it all worth-while. I bought a 6 month membership, so I'll get at least 6 more massages.

On the way home, I had to get gas and I paid $4.06. First time I've ever paid over FOUR DOLLARS! Uggg. But the good news is that the Governor of Montana thinks his state has 40,000,000,000 (thats 40 BILLION barrels of oil). I hope he's right!

Lots of oil in Montana??

Although I'm not totally sold on man-made global warming, I really believe the US needs to really diversify our power sources. It just makes sense to be more energy independent, and not alter the CO2 content of the atmosphere more that we already are. We need more solar, better ethanol (not from just corn), wind and yes, nuclear power!

More Pictures!

2008-05-27T12:06:00.001-07:00

Hi All, Sorry I've been slow getting more pictures up, I've had computer problems and I've been lazy : ) My last picture post ended when I arrived in New York. Here we go from there.

I love New York!

Me and Sheila on the observation deck of the Empire State Building

Dinner Party at Sheila's home in Queens

Yale Law School, where many famous, elite people have graduated

Mark and Judy's house in New Hampshire. Originally built around 1750.

Mark, Judy and I spent a day visiting Salem, MA

I took a day to do the John Adams tour in Quincy. Here is his childhood home.

I walked the "Freedom Trail" in Boston. I started at the Boston Commons, just across from the Massachusetts State House.

Self portrait of me and Aunt Dolly at her house in Compton, IL

Cousins Tina and Becky and Me in Aurora, IL

Cousin Lexie and her cute kids in Iowa

Me and Aunt Lois in Iowa

I was welcomed home with a rush hour slowdown. But it was good to be home : )

Thanks for following my big trip! I was honored and humbled that so many followed the blog. I'm not sure what to do with the blog now... any ideas?

-Greg

Home Sweet Home

2008-05-16T10:40:00.000-07:00

I said goodbye to everyone in Iowa on Tuesday morning. It was a little emotional saying goodbye to Aunt Lois and Uncle Bud... I dropped by Tina's place in Mason City to pick up my jacket, and headed to the little Iowa town of Belmond, where my paternal grandfather was born. My cousin Marty asked me to do a little genealogical research for him in Belmond. I dug through the city hall records and visited the cemetery. We got one little piece figured out, but a few others remain. Once done in Belmond, I hit the road and ended up at a Super 8 motel on the Missouri River in South Dakota for the night. Wednesday was a big 12 hour drive from South Dakota, through part of Wyoming and I stayed the night in Butte, Montana.

I left Butte at 10:00 AM MDT, and arrived in North Bend to pick up Midas at 5:00 PM PDT. I got home at 6:30 PM.

Some quick facts about the trip:
Miles traveled: 10,011.4
Ave gas mileage: 26.9
Est ave gas price: $3.55
States visited:28 (OR, CA, AZ, NM, TX,LA, MS,AL,GA,SC,NC, VA,DL,MD,NJ,NY,CT,MA,NH,PA,OH,IN,IL,IA,SD,WY,ID,MT)
Places stayed the night: 21

What a trip! It was the greatest adventure of my life. Thank you sooo much to all my friends and family who I visited and stayed with. You made the trip amazing! But, it is also wonderful to be home. After this huge trip, I realize the Pacific Northwest is a especially beautiful part of our great country. It was great to have Midas back, he seemed pretty happy to be back home, too.

More pictures coming in a day or two.

Greg

Iowa and the Journey Home

2008-05-13T07:36:00.000-07:00

On Friday, I washed up, packed up and took Dolly to town, had breakfast and then dropped her off at home. We said goodbye, then I headed to Aurora, IL to visit my cousin Becky. Becky and her niece Tina (Tina is my oldest cousin Harry's oldest child) and I went out for lunch. We had a short but great conversation. It's always good to see Becky and Tina! I hit the road again and ended up at my cousin Gene's little acreage in Plymouth, IA for the night around 8:00 PM. My Aunt Lois (Gene's mom) dropped in to say hello.

On Saturday, I went to Lois' (who lives very near Gene) with Gene for breakfast. I visited my cousin Lois Jean with Gene in Mason City. Later, I visted my cousin Harry and his girlfriend in a nearby town with Uncle Bud. That evening Lois and Uncle Bud, Gene's girlfriend Jane, my cousin Vicki and her husband Clarence came over to Gene's, and Gene hosted a big and tasty steak dinner.

On Sunday, again went to Lois' for breakfast with Vicki and Clarence, then Tina and her daughter Tina came over, and we all headed to the Plymouth 1st Methodist for Sunday service. Afterwards, Vicki and Clarence left for home (about an hour away) and Aunt Lois took me to the Mason City Cemetery where I have a lot of relatives and ancestors buried. Tina (the same one mentioned above) hosted a wonderful Mother's Day dinner at her and her husband Dave's place in Mason City. Aunt Lois, Uncle Bud, Tina, Dave, Harry, Sue, Tina's kids Josh and Sara were all there. I played football in the back yard with the kids afterwards to burn off some cals : )

On Monday, had breakfast with Lois, lunch in Mason City with Gene and my cousin Richy. I headed to my cousin Lexie's where I looked at her computers (they're on the fritz, I wasn't able to get them going for her :( and met her wonderful children Ben, Joey and Jesslyn. Ben and Joey work on a nearby dairy farm, and I got a personalized tour! I hooked up Lois to the internet (per my Dad's request :) For dinner, we ate at Lois' with Lexie, her kids, Lois, Bud and me.

Tuesday, I got up, cleaned up, packed and headed to Lois's for breakfast. I'm blogging now, and will head to Mason City to pick up my jacket (left at Tina's on Sunday). I am very blessed with a large and loving family. I didn't know my family in Iowa very well, but this trip has made me a lot closer with a lot of them, and they all are wonderful people.

The final leg of the journey begins today! I should be home Thursday or Friday. I'll post more pics and a wrap-up post when I get home. Stay tuned (at least for a little while longer)

Greg

Sampson Attacks!

2008-05-08T10:19:00.000-07:00

I've been enjoying my stay with my Aunt Dolly here in rural IL. We've been having some fun and interesting conversations. On Monday, I went to town in the morning and got breakfast at a decent local restaurant. I jogged in the evening.

On Tuesday, I went to town and bought a new mailbox, which I put up for her. I went jogging in the afternoon and almost got eaten by a big dog with a bear-like head. Well, not really, but it was a bit of a scary encounter with a big, black 100 lb Rottweiler looking pooch with his fur up. The owner was nearby but didn't seem too concerned and just said, "Here, Sampson, here". He started after me again a couple more times as I tried to jog on, I finally asked the owner to hold onto cuddly Sampson until I was gone. She obliged. I took a long walk in the evening, avoiding Sampson's house : )

On Wednesday I had breakfast in town again and went shopping for dinner. Dolly had a couple of friends over that evening, and we had a nice chicken dinner together. I took a long walk in the evening.

I've enjoyed the slower pace of the last few days, I've been watching TV, exercising, doing a few little tasks around the house, reading and chatting with Dolly and a couple of her friends that visit.

I'm heading out tomorrow to visit a Cousin in Aurora, IL, then I'll head to the Mason City, Iowa area where both of my parents were born. I'll visit Aunt Lois, Uncle Bud and a few cousins there, then I'll be drivin' home. I've debated visiting Glacier, several of you have told me about how beautiful it is, but I'm feeling the call of home and will leave that for another trip. I expect to be home around Wednesday, 5/14. Less than a week to go!

Until the next post,
Greg

Boston and Chicago

2008-05-04T12:20:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, I drove to the Alewife subway station and took the subway into Boston. I got out at Boston Commons, what a place to first really see Boston! I walked around the Commons, grabbed a hot dog and pop, took pictures of the Statehouse (across the street) then proceeded down the "Freedom Trail". I really enjoyed it- the 2 mile walk goes by Paul Revere's house, Fureil Hall, the Quincy Market, the Old North Church, "Cheers" (a little less historical), the Old City Hall, a few very old cemeteries and ended up at the USS Constitution in Charleston. The Constitution was amazing, to see such an historic old ship (built 1796). I got back to Mark and Judy's, had dinner and hit the sack.

Friday, I got up and packed and lounged around. Mark and I had lunch at a Mexican place in downtown Milford (Judy wasn't feeling well, and she didn't join us), came back to the house and said my goodbyes, and I hit the road once again. It was an interesting drive, New York is a pretty big state actually. Lots of forests. Drove through Albany, Syracuse and Buffalo, saw the Erie Canal. I stayed the night in a motel in Westfield, New York.

On Saturday, I left the motel around 8:30, drove through the last bit of New York, through Erie, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and ended up in Compton, IL at my Aunt's house at 5:00 PM CDT. We chatted, ate a little dinner, and I hit the sack early. This morning, I woke up at 7:00, jogged around the block (in rural Illinois, that's 2.6 miles), cleaned up, chatted with Dolly, and headed to Chicago, where I met a friend from my church earning a Masters at Loyola for lunch. She was nice enough to let me use her computer to catch up on email and blogging, and here I am!

Well, my big trip is on the homestretch. I'll stay with Dolly for a few days, I'll stop by in Iowa to see more relatives (Have you figured out I have a big family?) for a day or two, then the big drive from Iowa to Seattle. I was thinking of stopping in Colorado, but I'm finally starting to get a bit homesick, and am thinking of getting home by mid-May.

Hope all of you are well. I'll see all my Seattle family and friends fairly soon!

Until the next post,

Greg

NYC, CT, MA & NH

2008-04-30T15:42:00.000-07:00

We had a great lamb dinner on Sunday Night with 4 of Sheila's friends. I got up early on Monday, packed, and went out for breakfast with Sheila, dropped Sheila off at the train station we said good bye, and I was off to Mark and Judy's in New Hampshire. Along the way, I stopped by in New Haven, Connecticut to look at the Yale campus (it was raining like crazy, and I got soaked!) and grab lunch. I hit the road again and arrived at Mark and Judy's place near Milford, NH around 3:00 PM. The house is very nice and big, and very old. Mark told me the house was probably built in 1750, but definitely before 1780. For a history buff like me, it is amazing to be staying in a colonial-era home! Judy made a wonderful roast beef dinner and the 3 of us relaxed and talked for the evening.

On Tuesday, I got up and had a leisurely morning, then I drove to Quincy, MA to see the President Adams homes (his birthplace and his nicer home he bought later) and library. I read the David McCullough biography John Adams, so it was extra interesting for me to see the homes. I got back around 4:00 PM, we went to a very good local diner for dinner.

I was up a little earlier this morning, Judy had the day off and Mark took the day off, and they took me on a little tour. We drove through and did a little sight-seeing in Concord and Lexington (Where the first battle of the American Revolution was fought in April, 1775). We then went to Salem, strolled the town and visited the "Witch Museum" and a very old cemetery. We saw a tombstone of a person that died around 1680, and it said "Mayflower Pilgrim". I didn't cut my toe and got a picture. Now, we're lounging around and watching TV, Judy will have another wonderful home-made dinner ready soon.

Tomorrow, I plan on doing the "Freedom Trail" in Boston. Life is good!

Until the next post,
Greg

The New Orleans Incident

2008-04-29T04:50:00.000-07:00

Someone asked about the toe injury, and I said I'd post about it...

I had parked in NO, was was walking toward the French Quarter when I heard the blow of a Riverboat whistle. In my youthful enthusiasm that has somehow hung on to middle age, I started running toward the Mississippi to see the boat. Think "Yay, a big river boat, I'm gonna get a nice picture!" I'm running through a parking lot, then toward the gate near the river, then all of a sudden I hit something and I stumble and fall. I evaluate the damage: raspberries on my hands and knees, I look at my feet in my sandals and I see some bleeding. I think, "Wow, that's odd. What caused that?" I look toward the gate. Tire shredding spikes! I found a nearby bathroom and cleaned it and bandaged it. Luckily, the spike hit my callous, and the damage wasn't too bad. I'm still alive and it's almost totally healed now. I didn't get the picture : )

I Love New York- Mariah Carey, not so much.

2008-04-27T11:28:00.000-07:00

After lunch on Thursday, I just roamed around Manhattan, through a section called "East Village". The weather was spectacular, sunny and mid 70s. I met Sheila in Madison Park at 5:30 PM, we took the train back to her place in Queens. We drove to Little Bay Park for a short jog, then we dropped by a Greek restaurant (Sheila knows the owners) for dinner to go.

On Friday, I slept in, got ready to go, had a leisurely breakfast near the train station. Got on the train, headed to Manhattan again. Manhattan blows my mind, its so huge, tall and crowded. Fascinating to me. I walked around Rockefeller Center and St. Patrick's Catholic Church, then met up with Sheila at the Empire State Building. We went up, and we really enjoyed the view. But, we got kinda stuck on the observation deck. Why? Maria Carey was up on the observation deck doing an interview or something, and they decided to shut down all the elevators. There were a lot of upset folks up there! At least I got a picture of her (since we were stuck there anyhow). Afterwards, we headed down to the Battery Park area. We walked around a little, walked by "ground zero", and took the passenger ferry over to Hoboken New Jersey. I will now refer to Hoboken as "Hobroken" since the old (1920s?) ferry terminal there was literally falling down : ) We had a nice dinner at a Malayan restaurant, then roamed the waterfront, then we took the "PATH" train back to Penn Station, where we caught the RIRR train back to Queens. When folks got on at Shea Stadium got on the train, there was grumbling about the Mets losing.

Slept in again on Saturday (seeing a pattern?), Sheila went off to run errands, so I went for breakfast/coffee on my own. Met back at the house at Noon, we headed out in Sheila's car to pick up Julie, a friend of Sheila's. We then we drove out to the vineyards of Long Island on the South Fork on the eastern end of the island. We stopped at a beautiful looking diner that had decidedly so-so food. Can't win 'em all I guess! We visited two wineries for tasting: Duck Walk and The Channing Daughters. East coast wines taste very mellow to me, I liked the taste, but I'm not a connoisseur. We got back to town around 8:00 PM, and were tired so just ordered a pizza for dinner.

This morning Sheila and I went to her church (1st Presbyterian of Whitestone in Queens) at 10:30, it was a cute little building, about 100 years old. The congregation is very small, but full of love and spirit. After the service they had a little celebration for the birthday of the Pastor and a congregant. After that, they had a healing service. We left about 12:30, went food shopping and had coffee. We got back to the house at 2:00 PM, and here I am blogging!

I plan on leaving NYC tomorrow for Boston. New York has been great, and Sheila has been a wonderful host. We're having a lamb dinner tonight in honor of Orthodox Easter, with several of Sheila's friends. NYC is such a huge, interesting megalopolis you could spend years here to explore it all.

Until the next post,
Greg

PS No comments on the pics??

Pictures!

2008-04-24T18:51:00.000-07:00

Greg holding Alex and Emy's kids Dylan and Alyssa in Cuppertino

Tim and Greg at the Padres game in San Diego

Uncle Ted and Greg at an undisclosed lunch location in Phoenix

Cousin Staffan and Greg at the Iron Cactus in Dallas

Dealy Plaza in Dallas

Cousin Tor and Greg at the Astros game in Houston

(from left) Carol, Don, Dan, Greg and Michelle eating dinner in Athens, GA

(from left) Matt, Melody, Mark (retiree), Marty and Greg at Mark's retirement ceremony in Norfolk, VA.

Jefferson's Monticello near Charlottesville, VA. Look at the back of a nickel!

Sheila's cat (put in at her request). Sheila loves her cats.

VA, DC, MD, DL, NJ & NY

2008-04-24T11:26:00.001-07:00

Got up Monday, met Ted and Eve for breakfast. We picked up Ted's friend Ray, and we all went to the Jamestown Settlement. For the one or two of you that may not know, Jamestown was the first permanent English settlement in the New World. We checked out the "living museum" and the actual settlement site, where archaelogical work is ongoing. Ray had us over for a home cooked meal courtesy of his grandson. It was excellent!

Tuesday, Ted, Eve and I met for breakfast as usual. We then headed to the Maritime Museum in Newport News, where we looked around for 3 hours of so. The highlight was viewing the remains of the Union Civil War era ironclad ship, The Monitor. Ray's girlfriend made lunch for us, then we all said our goodbye's, and I was off to Colonial Williamsburg and the College of William and Mary. I spent a couple hours there, then drove off to Charlottesville to stay the night.

Got up early on Wednesday, and headed for Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. I looked around for 3 hours of so, then headed off for New York. I passed through 5 states and DC on Wednesday! That was the first time I'd be though Delaware. I arrived at Sheila's place in Queens at 8:00, were we had dinner with a friend of Sheila's.

Slept in, cleaned up and headed to Manhattan on the Long Island railroad. I met sheila for lunch, we had a nice Sushi lunch, then Sheila showed me here office. We parted ways, now I'm in a local Kinkos writing this. I'm gonna wander around and meet Sheila at 5:30 for the train ride back to Queens.

I have some pictures ready to post, they should be up later today or tomorrow.

The adventure continues!

Until the next post,
Greg

Mark's Retirement

2008-04-20T15:48:00.000-07:00

Friday was Mark's retirement ceremony in Norfolk. The rough midpoint of my trip, and one of the main main inspirations for the trip. The ceremony was fairly simple and not too long, but was very nice and patriotic. There was talk of dedication, service and God. It was a great experience, to be there with Mark and his family, celebrating his 26 years of service to the United States Navy.

There was a reception after the ceremony, then we headed to Kelly's (Mark's wife's sister who lives in town) house for a wonderful bar-b-que for good food, drink and long conversations.

On Saturday, we all met for breakfast in the hotel, then Mark brought us on board the aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt for a tour. It was a thrill to get a tour of an active carrier! All the sailors were very professional and polite, especially the Petty Officer who conducted most of our tour. We hit the Navy PX, headed back to the hotel, ate a dinner of leftovers from the various parties for Mark, and later I had a good conversation with my cousin Matt.

Sunday has been pretty lazy, meeting as usual for breakfast at the hotel, and people heading to the airport to go home. I got an oil change and am taking advantage of the hotel laundry (exciting stuff in this blog, huh? :) I'll stay with Ted and Eve, tomorrow we're planning to see a few of the local historical sites.

Till the next post,
Greg

Athens and Norfolk

2008-04-18T05:44:00.000-07:00

It's great to hear that there are quite a few readers of this blog! There have been several requests for pictures, hopefully I can get some posted soon, but I am keeping very busy and I also need access to a computer with an SD card reader.

I met up with Michelle, Michelle's 5 (yes, 5!) children and Carol in Athens on Tuesday, we went out for ice cream and I got a whirlwind tour of Athens. Later, Michelle, Dan (Michelle's husband), Carol and Don (Carol's husband) and I went out for dinner to a fantastic southern food restaurant in downtown Athens. My sporadic jogging is just keeping me even with all the great food I'm downing! Afterwards, we had a drink at a bar owned by a friend of Michelle and Dan, also in downtown Athens.

Here's the amazing story behind this meeting: Michelle and I ran around with the same set of friends in HS, but lost contact after HS. About 4 years ago, I just happened to run into Michelle when she was visiting Seattle. We discovered we had our faith in common, and we've been in touch ever since. I met Don a couple of years ago through a Christian program called "Alpha" at University Presbyterian Church in Seattle. Don moved about a year ago for a new job. It turns out that Don moved to Athens, GA, and joined Redeemer Presbyterian church which happens to be Dan and Michelle's church, and they became friends . Carol moved to Athens a little after Don, and Michelle and Carol are great friends now.

Michelle and Dan put me up for the night, I woke up Wednesday, packed up and said goodbye to Michelle and the kids on Wednesday morning. Dan and I went downtown to have breakfast together. Dan showed me their church (where he works), then I headed off to cruise around the University of Georgia for a few hours. It is a beautiful campus (but not quite as beautiful as my Alma Mater, the University of Washington :) I got a haircut downtown at "Lock Nest" hair studio, then I hit the road again around 1:00 PM. I drove through Georgia, South Carolina and stopped for the night at 9:00 PM night at a Motel 6 in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina.

I got up and headed out to Norfolk, Virginia on Thursday. I arrived at the hotel where my family is staying at 11:00 AM. I met up with Uncle Ted and Eve (who starred in the Phoenix post), cousin Mark and his wife Judy, and we headed to Judy's sister's place for a get together. Ted and I later left for the Norfolk airport to pick up cousins Marty, Matt and Melody (Along with Mark, all Ted's children). We had a drink and a fun conversation at the airport, then headed back to the hotel. We ate at the hotel, then went up to Ted and Eve's apartment for a drink and some more good conversation. I heard a lot of fun stories about my cousin's youth in Durango, Colorado. Evidently, they got into their fair share of trouble... lol

Crashed in Mark's room, slept like a baby, got up and met everyone for breakfast in the hotel restaurant area. We're now getting ready for Mark's retirement ceremony at noon.

Another unbelievably enjoyable last few days with great friends and family. To kill the long hours of driving, I'm keeping in touch with several of you by cell phone, listening to music and talk radio. I gotta say this trip ranks very high on my list of life events! Everyday is an adventure, and the fun, generosity and love of those I've been with is overwhelming.

Until the next post,
Greg

Houston, New Orleans and Atlanta

2008-04-15T11:12:00.000-07:00

The trip from Dallas to Houston took 4 hours. Met Tor and his lovely wife Anna at 3:30. They have a guest room where they let me stay. Their townhouse is very nice! We watched "There Will be Blood" on DVD, then the 3 of us met a friend of theirs in town from London at a very nice Italian restaurant where we ate outdoors. It was nice, about 70 degrees. We had good food, good wine and good conversation.

Tor, Anna and I got up, headed to Memorial Park, and we walked 3 miles in the mild morning sun. We went back to the house, cleaned up, then met Tor's mom for brunch at another great little restaurant (Named the "Hobbit Hole" I believe...). Some Astros tickets fell out of the sky into Tor's lap, so we headed to Minute Maid field where we watched the game vs. the Florida Marlins. Let's see: Twice on this trip free baseball tickets have come out of nowhere for me, and both games featured the Astros. Am I supposed to be an Astros fan?? After the game we got some very good Gelato near Rice University. Back to the house, we relaxed, watched another movie (a French film called, "Russian Dolls"), Anna's brother came over and we all had a bar-b-que dinner of hot dogs and hamburgers.

On Monday morning, I packed up and cleaned up, then followed Tor to a Starbucks near his office. We had coffee then said our goodbyes. I left Houston around 8:00 AM. I hadn't planned on it, but I ended up on the road to New Orleans. Since I had a little time, I went with the flow. I found the French Quarter, parked and walked around for 2 hours. I love old buildings and history, so I really enjoyed my walk, and was glad I decided to stop. At least I got a taste of New Orleans, an unplanned treat. Driving east on I-10 out of town, I saw some of the devastated areas of town... the scale of it all was amazing. But, I hear the city is progressing well. I drove on, stayed the night in Evergreen, Alabama. I visited 3 states I never had visited before on Monday: Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. My goal of visiting every state is getting closer!

Got up Tuesday, took advantage of the hotel's breakfast, and then hit the road. Right now, I'm in a downtown Atlanta Kinkos writing this. I'm heading off to Athens in a few minutes to visit another High School friend, Michelle and her family. I'm still having a great time, and am well (except I cut my left big toe in New Orleans... I'll tell that story later : )

Till the next post,
Greg

Dallas

2008-04-12T07:16:00.000-07:00

Pt 7 Staffan finished work, came home, then Staffan, his girlfriend Sara and I headed out to eat a downtown Mexican restaurant. We had great food and conversation. Afterwards, we watched a movie on Staffan's big 'ol HD flatscreen.

Friday morning was lazy, then I drove to Addison to meet up with another friend, the Brother of my friend Alex (who I saw in Cuppertino), Ken. We had an Indian buffet lunch and a good conversation. Headed back to Staffan's, then roamed around downtown Dallas until I came upon Dealey Plaza. I went in to the museum and spent a couple of hours there. It was well done and very interesting. For dinner, Staffan, Sara and another couple Issac and Amy and I went to a gourmet Mexican restaurant downtown, "Iron Cactus" for dinner. I had the best Chicken fried steak I've ever had there. It's highly recommended! We all went back to Staffan's and played "Trivial Pursuit". Staffan took the prize for the night!

I hit the sack at 1:00 AM, was up at 9:00, and here I am. I wish I had more time here in Dallas, it was a great time, it was great to hang out with my Cousin Staffan. But the journey will continue soon, and I'll be off to Houston!

Till the next post,
Greg

Duststorms and Tornados

2008-04-10T12:24:00.001-07:00

Prt. 6 Ted, Eve and I had a nice dinner at the local Outback on Monday night. Tuesday morning, Roxy and I did a final jog together in the cool morning. We got back, I cleaned up, packed up and said goodbyes to Ted and Eve (I'll see them again in Norfolk). Hit the road at 10:00 AM. The freeways were pretty much wide open. I enjoyed the desert scenery, and the temps were nice and cool, cooler than usual, about 65. I took I-10, which was closed near the New Mexico/Texas line due to big dust storms, but luckily the freeway wasn't closed long. I chugged along until 10:00 PM PDT (12:00 AM CDT), and I stopped and got a hotel room in Odessa, TX. Evidently a tornado hit fairly near by in San Angelo that night. I woke up at 5:00 AM CDT (3:00 AM PDT), and headed out to Dallas to meet my Maternal cousin Staffan for lunch. I saw the sunrise, which was nice. I hope my picture came out good!

Thank goodness for the Magellan GPS, cause I'm not sure I could have navigated all those complicated Ft. Worth/Dallas freeways to my cousin Staffan's office in North Dallas without it! Met Staffan and 3 of his co-workers at his office, then we headed out for lunch at a local Sushi restaurant at 11:30. Staffan and I grabbed coffee briefly afterwards to chat some more. Then, I headed over to his apartment in downtown Dallas to "chill". What a nice place it is! I'm a bit jealous- it's right downtown, nicely furnished with a lot of cool gadgets (the computer I'm on has a, gosh, 25" or so screen).

Most of my postings have been straight journaling, but wow, I am having the time of my life! Everything has been great from all my overly-generous friends and family to the beautiful countryside to happy coincidences.

Hope you are all well.

Until the next post,
Greg

Enjoying Phoenix

2008-04-08T18:11:00.000-07:00

Pt. 5 Uncle Ted (My Father's brother) and Eve are putting me up in their guest room, which is very comfortable. Got up early-ish on Monday, and went for a little jog with Ted and Eve's dog Roxy. There was perfect jogging weather in the morning, 70 and sunny! Their home is in a retirement community, and they have a series of man-made lakes with jogging trails. Roxy and I came back, cleaned up, then Ted, Eve and I went to their clubhouse for breakfast. Then, Ted showed me around town, told me about his local business, then we went to a Native American museum in Tempe. We went to Hooters for lunch in downtown Phoenix (it was his idea :) We came back to the house, lounged, and had a nice bar-b-que dinner. Ted made a fire in the back yard after dinner, and the 3 of us relaxed, chatted and enjoyed the fire.

Same routine this morning: Got up, went jogging, cleaned up, headed out for a tour and business with Ted. When we got back, Ted took me and Roxy out on his 4x4 quad in the nearby desert. It was a blast! We'll be heading out soon for dinner. I'll be packing up and hitting the road for Dallas tomorrow morning.

That's all for now. Until the next post,
Greg

On to Phoenix!

2008-04-06T19:44:00.000-07:00

Pt. 4 Another lazy morning on Friday. I got another 2 mile or so jog in. It's been great jogging weather in the mornings, 60 and partly cloudy. I met up with my cousin Eric around 3:30 PM. We drove around and grabbed dinner at his favorite local buffet. We drove around some more, caught up with a couple of Eric's friends and we all went to Denny's for a snack, then later Eric and I saw the new Rolling Stones concert movie "Shine a Light" directed by Martin Scorsese (The movie wasn't that great- wait for the rental). It's always great meeting up with Eric, we always have an instant connection and great conversations.

Saturday was mellow all day long. I got some chores done, Uncle Butch and I went to dinner at a local cafe that has a nostalgic Americana theme. The food was excellent. We stayed in and had a good conversation.

Today (Sun 4/6), I got up, went for a jog, had coffee with Butch, cleaned up and packed. I said my goodbyes to Butch, and hit the road around 11:15 AM. It was pretty much a wide open Road from San Diego to the Phoenix area (Chandler). I arrived around 5:00 PM at Uncle Ted and Eve's place. Ted showed me around (it's my first visti) and we chatted. We had a very nice dinner, and here I am! I want to thank Uncle Butch once again for putting up for me for a WHOLE WEEK! He made me feel welcome the whole time, we had a lot of fun and laughs with our conversations.

Until the next post,
Greg

Special Guest Star

2008-04-04T11:14:00.000-07:00

Pt. 3 After I left the Kinkos on Wednesday, Tim and I met up and had a great brunch at a place called "Brian's" in the Gaslight area of San Diego. Then, I dropped off Tim at his Hotel, I went back to my base at Uncle Butch's. Picked up Tim again around 7:30 PM, and we went to the Padres/Astros game at Petco Park. That is one nice stadium! It's only 3 years old, and it has a lot of interesting extras, like a little play field for young kids. We had great seats, it was fun, but the Padres lost.

Lounged around Thursday morning, got a 2 mile jog in. Tim and I met up again at noon, we headed to the waterfront where we had lunch and visited the aircraft carrier "Midway" (served 1945 through 1991) that is open for tours. That was pretty interesting. We had a little time left before Tim was scheduled to fly out, so we headed to the beach on Coronado. We walked around on the beach, went by the Hotel Coronado, got some coffee, then we headed out. I dropped Tim off at the airport, then I was off to visit Aunt Joyce in Poway. Joyce and I had a fun time and conversation, then we visited her husband Maurice at the convalescent home where he is recovering from a broken hip. While I was with Joyce, my brother Scott called! He was in Poway for business, so I met up with him and a co-worker of his at the local gourmet restaurant "Chili's". I had no idea he'd be down here, so that was a big surprise.

Until the next post,
-Greg

LA and San Diego

2008-04-02T10:54:00.000-07:00

Part 2. I arrived in the LA area around 8:15 PM on Friday 3/28, I met up with my friend Larry I met in Seattle who now lives in Berkley, but was visiting his home town of LA. We had a good dinner and good conversation. After dinner, I headed to Inglewood, where another friend from way back in Jr. High, Scott, lives and had graciously invited me to stay. Saturday was pretty mellow, we got breakfast, cruised around town, then had a home bar-b-que dinner. On Sunday, I went with Scott to his Church in West LA, it was very similar to my Church in Seattle, so I felt right at home. Afterwards we grabbed breakfast and went to the J. Paul Getty museum near Bel Aire. It is a very impressive building, and the art was fascinating and beautiful. I recommend a visit if you ever get a chance (and it's only $8 for parking, admission is free)! Scott and I grabbed dinner, then I was off for San Diego.

I arrived at my Uncle Butch's place in San Diego at about 10:00 PM on Sun 3/30. On Monday we grabbed breakfast at a nearby Mexican restaurant which was very good. Later that day, I headed to Escondido to visit my Uncle Dick and his wife Suzie for about half a day. We went to watch Dick's Grandson's baseball game at Escondido High. Afterwards, we had dinner at a very nice Mexican restaurant nearby. Dick gave me two tickets for the Padres game on Wed night. Coincidentally a very good friend from Seattle, Tim, is in San Diego for business so I called him up, and he agreed to go with me to the game. After dinner, I headed back to Butch's place in San Diego.

Tuesday 4/1 was a pretty mellow day. I surfed the internet, roamed Butch's neighborhood in the warm San Diego sun (nice!), stopped for coffee at a local coffee shop. Butch and I went out for Chinese food at lunch. Later, I met up with Tim and some people he met from his company down here in the downtown/Gaslight area for drinks and fun. And we had drinks and fun : )

Woke up late-ish (due to the drinks and fun of the previous night), Tim called and suggested we meet for breakfast. So, I headed down to pick him up at his hotel. Right now, he's getting a little work task done via computer as I write this post at a nearby Kinkos.

Wow, I'm finally caught up on the blogging! Upcoming plans include the previoulsy mentioned Padres game tonight with Tim, visiting a few more relatives here in the San Diego area, then heading out for Phoenix on the 5th or 6th.

I hope everyone is well!

Till the next post,
Greg

I'm Baaack

2008-04-01T14:32:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard I was locked out of the blog. Google's software thought this blog was a "spam blog". Anyhow, they have finally reviewed it and determined this blog isn't a spam blog and unlocked it. Good news.

Back to the trip!

Part 1. I got a late start on Tuesday 3/25. Headed to North Bend with my loyal Golden Retriever Midas, dropped him off at my brother's place then headed down Hwy 18 to to I-5. Drove all the way Grant's Pass in Oregon, then took the cut off over to Hwy 101 along the CA coast. It was late and I was running behind schedule, so I just pulled over near the ocean and snoozed in the car. It was clear when I pulled over- the ocean was crashing and the sky was the blackest I've ever seen. The stars were blazing. Soon after I settled in my sleeping bag, it started to rain. "This is great" I thought (though the sleep wasn't so great).

I arrived at the home of my good friend Alex in Cuppertino around 11:00 AM on Wednesday (The Magellan GPS unit proved it's worth getting me there!). We had lunch, and a great conversation. Dinner with Alex and family that evening. Thursday morning, Alex and family left for vacation, and I was off for lunch with another old friend from Jr. High and High School, Ed. I hadn't seen Ed in at least 12 years, we did a lot of catching up. I then headed up to Berkley and roamed around campus. Then caught up with another old friend from HS, Jim at his house in Oakland. Jim and I got back in touch after, ahem, 25 years via Facebook. Jim, his wife Pam and I went out to gourmet Mexican restaurant in Oakland for dinner. They put me up for the night in their cute guest house in the back. On Friday morning Jim made breakfast and coffee which we enjoyed leisurely. Hit the road for San Francisco at 9:00 or so. I drove around SF a little, then stopped near the Golden Gate, and walked along the shore for a couple hours. Then, met Jim downtown for lunch. At 1:30 PM, I was on the road again.

Around the US Road Trip!

2008-03-21T10:22:00.000-07:00

In November 2007, my sister jumped in her car and drove to Illinois to visit a relative at Thanksgiving (contrary to her husband's advice). I thought that was gutsy, and it sounded fun. So, I was inspired. Since then, I've planned to jump in my car and do a similar trip, visiting friends and family along the way. I don't have a lot of obligations, so I have the time. I'm fairly frugal so I have the resources. So, I'm gonna do it!

Today is my last day at work, a place I've enjoyed and will miss. Yesterday, I had an amazing going away party, complete with a bunch of great road-travel related gifts, including a GPS! Note to co-workers: Thanks to all of you, it was a humbling experience, I will miss you, but I will be in touch : )

I have no new job lined up, and I'm "Jumping off the high dive" to a bit of a hazy (but hopefully a bit adventerous) future.

I plan on heading out on Tuesday 3/25/08 or possibly Wednesday 3/26. I think I'll be on the road 5 to 7 weeks. I'll be documenting the trip here as time allows. Stay tuned!

-Greg