Happy NYE

Krissy made a great dinner and we're getting ready to go out. Traffic is nuts in our neighborhood and parking at a premium. Tomorrow will be just as busy just before a busy weekend. Normal won't begin to Monday!

NFL Hall of Famer Doug Atkins passed away yesterday. All the old timers will swear that he was the best defensive end ever. He actually has the season sack record but technically he doesn't because sacks weren't a statistic until the early 80's. They went back and watched the tapes and old Doug had around 22 in a shortened season. You know he was a tough guy when his fellow team members said ick Butkus was only the second toughest guy on the Bears in the 60's. Another Chicago icon and legend that will be missed. Thanks for being a Monster of the Midway!

Thanks to everyone for reading the blog again this year. Today completes my second full year as I started on January 1st in 2014. So many wonderful people from over 40 countries have been so kind and I wish you all a heartfelt Happy New Year for 2016.

Stay safe out there!

Later

Auto Correct

It's the night before the NYE storm but you would think it's tonight in Milwaukee. Tons of people out even with poor parking options thanks to terrible snow plowing in the city. Everyone is complaining about it. There's tons of spots but you just can't maneuver over the ice bergs and they are too heavy to move by hand.

Nothing but problems today. I had a insurance bill to pay and it was like an hour plus fiasco. Nothing irritates me more than a company making it difficult for a person to actually give them money. You'll never see that problem in Vegas!

I turned off my auto-correct feature on my phone. It was driving me nuts and always correcting words that didn't need to be corrected. Especially cuss words!

Anyway, I turned it back on after an hour. It seems much more useful after that experiment without it. I'll never be confused with Steve Jobs!

Later

The Aftermath

My back hurts. Shoveling the wet snow this morning was pretty tough as it was heavy. It was a total mess out there while driving around today and parking is tough. Hopefully they get the roads cleaned up better tomorrow although it appears more snow is in the forecast.

I heard the worst song ever today on satellite radio's 70's channel. Puppy Love by Donny Osmond. How he ever had a career after that hot mess is beyond me.

No formal NYE plans yet but I'm sure it will work itself out.

Drive safely out there!

Later

It's An Ice Storm

We started off with about 3 inches of snow now it's just freezing rain coming down. Our road looks like a giant ice sheet.

Meadowlark Lemon passed away yesterday. I saw the GlobeTrotters as a kid and we stopped after the game for a burger at a fast food joint. The GlobeTrotters stopped in ten minutes later and I met and talked to all of them including Meadowlark. A terrific guy as all of them were. Tired and hungry they signed autographs for the whole crowd. A truly class act. He was legendary!

Speaking of a class act that can't be said for Clay Matthews. I watched the Packers game yesterday and Clay Matthews reached down to help Carson Palmer up but abruptly pulled his hand back. Palmer threw a touchdown pass a minute later. I did something like that my junior year of high school. My coach made me write a letter of apology and hand deliver it the next day. Told me if I did anything like that again I'd be off the team. Nothing will happen to Matthews though but he's a punk in my book.

An excellent holiday party Saturday night. I won a bottle of Mad Dog in the booze exchange. It's bright orange in a cheap bottle and it's on reserve for our summer party. It's going to be iced down and served in shot glasses. Heck, maybe I should just put it outside today!

Later

The Bavuso Party

Such a busy day and we're getting ready for the Bavuso holiday party. Michelle and Gary always throw a good bash and having it after Christmas this year was a great idea. The booze exchange is often hilarious and somebody will be lucky if they get my gift which I won't disclose until tomorrow!

A belated Happy Birthday to Mr. Jimmy Buffett. He was born on Christmas Day which has to be a bit tough!

Football tomorrow and I'm not sure if I even care that much.

My pants are almost finished in the dryer and I gotta run!

Stay safe.

Later

Coffee Drinks On Christmas Day

We made some excellent coffee drinks today on a lovely and warm Christmas Day without any snow. It was definitely one of the warmest Christmas Day's that I can ever remember!

Coco patted my stomach and suggested that maybe I should consider doing P90X again. He's probably right!

Krissy gave me a lovely 1935 picture of Wrigley Field during their World Series against Detroit. It's much the same yet different.

We gave Coco a television for his room. We somehow lost our WII which we had packed up during some rearranging. Then all of a sudden Krissy remembered where it was and it's all hooked up and we've been playing all day.

I hope everyone enjoyed their holiday and good tidings to all!

Later

A Merry Christmas Eve

It's always a busy 24th. From last minute shopping, to church, to eating and spending time with family members. We woke up early and dropped off Coco then out to Krissy's moms and we just got back. Thank you to all for such a nice day!

I see where Robert Downey Jr. received a Christmas Eve pardon stemming from his troubles back in the 90's. I guess being Iron Man really did payoff!

Hitting the hay! Have fun tomorrow everyone!

Later

Don Julio Coma

You have to love the Holiday season. Krissy tried out here new Don Julio last night in some of her homemade margaritas. It's her own recipe through trial and error and it's pretty darn good. Anyway, she slept well last night. Much better than me!

John and I went to Jack's Pub for lunch around 2 then met the girls at the Roman Coin for happy hour with the puggles Frank and Pete. Such a great afternoon then when Coco came over I grabbed him and we played 3 games of pool. He had a blast and he thinks we should do that every Wednesday night!

Then home eating leftovers and watching Adele Live from New York for the second time. I've heard a lot of great singers and entertainers in my time but I have to say she just might be the best there ever was at the ripe old age of 27. Such a talented and likeable person also. I don't say that lightly as legends such as Sinatra, Dean Martin and Etta James were fantastic and legendary. But, she just might seal the deal for generations to come she's that damn good!

I'm making tea and going to bed. Coco just asked if he could play video games and fall asleep on the couch. Sure, why not, it's Christmas time!

Later

Red Arrow Park

Somehow ice skating at Red Arrow Park is now open and I saw people skating. It's supposed to be 50 plus degrees tomorrow tying a record for the most 50 plus days in the month of December ever in Milwaukee.

The Bulls are losing to bad teams now and it's starting to look ugly. Baseball season can't get here fast enough.

I'm stuck on two shows right now. The Curse of Oak Island and Chasing Hitler both on the History Channel. The Hitler show is really very interesting with ex CIA people investigating his death and FBI classified documents where they obviously didn't think he was dead neither and believed he was living underground in Argentina.

Anyway, shopping is all done. Yay!!

Later

Officially Winter

It's officially the winter season but I didn't even need a coat today and it's only getting warmer this week. No snow in the immediate forecast neither.

The 5 Card Stud show saturday night at The Knick was fantastic as always. They threw in a few Christmas songs that I've never heard them perform before. Very nice and the keyboard guy gave us a free concert DVD. They've been around for 20 years and they are certainly a hard working band.

Lindsey Graham dropped out of the Presidential race today. He was never really in it and his mantra is throwing a ton of our troops in the Middle East to solve all our problems.

Milwaukee lost an icon this week in Safe House founder Dave Baldwin who just sold it this past summer after 50 years of running this unique and fabulous joint. His spy theme was definitely 007 James Bond inspired and it's a star attraction in the city. I've never seen anything like it anywhere including Las Vegas. It's a barrage of small rooms, bars, secret rooms and specialty drinks. It lasted 50 years and the Marcus Corporation will leave it unchanged lasting another 50 years I'm sure. He will be missed!

Later

Illinois Day

A busy day in Illinois but everyone had a great time at my sister Sharon's house. My Dad and Dee leave for Arizona on thursday and will settle in for the winter even though we're going to hit higher temps here again. I'm sure January will be hard month here in Milwaukee.

The Bears got beat up pretty good today. Not fun to watch but everybody is clamoring for baseball season already with all the Cubs big moves.

It's going to be a busy Christmas week. At times it gets exhausting with all the places and events we have to go to. Power on!

Later

Four Minute Blog

Such a busy day and so pressed for time. Up early taking Krissy to her spin class then running errands all day. I did make it to Otto's Beverage Center for a Cannonball. It's a Captain Morgan rum in a cannonball for a gift. If I had my way I would give a cannonball t everybody as a gift. The heck with boots and sweaters and video games.

Coco had a birthday/skating party to attend. He never skated before but held his own. He grew an inch the last couple days and his shins hurt before skating. Maybe there's a couple more coming!

Off to The Knick with Angela and John to see Five Card Stud. Then up early to visit relatives in Illinois. It's that time of year and if something important in the world happened today then I missed it!

Later

Moe, Larry, Cheese

I said the above referenced title to Krissy last night and she had no idea what I was talking. No idea! Naturally, everybody else knows that it's a line from a 3 Stooges episode. Everybody knows that!!!

There's a Broadway musical coming out in 2017 based on the music of Jimmy Buffett. His venture titled 'Don't Stop the Carnival' didn't do so well. It was based on the Herman Wouk novel which was among Jimmy's favorite books. I have a copy but it's still in my to read pile. Maybe I'll start that one next. Wouk also wrote the Caine Mutiny.

I saw on television this morning that they have a new 'earthquake' bed out. It actually folds up like a box with you in it if you press a button and it saves you from falling debris. It actually looked more dangerous than an actual earthquake!

I see where Congress passed a bill to allow U.S companies to export oil. We finally produce more than enough oil for our own use and now we're sending it overseas so oil companies can make more money internationally, lower the supply here and gauge us again. Gas prices finally went under 2 bucks a gallon and these clowns in Congress wouldn't let their oil buddies down. Say hello to a 3 handle again next year folks!

Later

Steve Miller Flying Like An Eagle

Another busy day but I was glad to see Milwaukee native Steve Miller finally inducted into the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame. His godfather is Les Paul the Waukesha legend who was the innovative leader for everything guitar. They played together in some bars in the very neighborhood I live in.

Cheap Trick is also getting inducted. Ironically, their original lead singer Xeno who quit just before their first album release plays in the local bars in Milwaukee. He's quite good also.

I attended Coco's Christmas Pageant today. That school really has some fine singers and a new drumming corp. A marvelous job by all and a very fine event.

I just entered a contest to win 2 tickets to Jimmy Buffett's NYE concert in Brooklyn, NY. Why not? We don't have any plans yet!!!

Later

I Stepped In It

Yep, I stepped in dog crap this evening and I'd like to give a big shout out to the idiot who didn't pick it up. The shoe part wasn't that hard to clean up but unfortunately I was in the Jeep before I noticed it. What a mess!

Bo Ryan won his last basketball game and promptly retired. He was coming off 2 Final Four appearances in a row but this team wasn't nearly as good this year. He was planning on going the entire year then walked it back and talked about next year. I guess he felt it was time and a mighty fine career at the University of Wisconsin so congrats on going out with a win.

The Federal Reserve Bank finally raised rates a quarter point. This should be the start of some gradual increases after 8 years of low rates. Rates are still historically low so don't panic my friends!

We went shopping at the mall tonight. Not too crowded. I'm thinking a lot of people are online shopping this year. If not then you might want to panic about that!!!

Later

The Debate

I finally tired of watching the debate. Not one of those people seem like a decent human being except Kasich. Not all of them are currently in Congress but I saw that the congressional approval rate is 16% and you can certainly see why as it's a sad lot of human beings.

St. Marcus extended their winning streak and Coco started and played a good first half. A few traveling calls and sloppy play in the second half but 6th grade basketball is certainly entertaining and they play so hard with excellent sportsmanship.

I went to the post office again today. The workers are great and helpful but the people in line are obnoxious.

Later

Adele Is Coming

What a busy day. An oil change, bed bath and beyond for Krissy, post office, UPS, basketball practice and some writing. I knew I was tired when I walked to the back door and tried to open it with the car fob!

On the news today I heard coat sales were way down. They'll practically be giving them away after Christmas which at this rate is when it might get cold. It was in the 50's here today and I saw tons of people without a coat. I'm talking short sleeve t-shirts. Last year it was single digits I believe at this point!

Cherry trees in the D.C area are even blooming. I'm hoping I can still get cherries next year.

Big game for Coco and the Mustangs tomorrow night as they put their 2 1/2 year unbeaten string on the line!

Adele just announced her North American tour. The closest dates to us are in Chicago and St. Paul where she opens. I noted that she plays in Arizona in the middle of August very close to Angela and John. She plays indoors so maybe I could ignore the 110 outside!

Later

12 Bars of Christmas

Leave it to Milwaukee to think of great festive pub crawls. Today was packed by 11am with people dressed up for the 12 Bars of Christmas sponsored by 12 bars naturally. I'm just wondering if anybody actually makes it to all 12! That's the goal for most people but it's hard if you're having a lot of fun at one particular place to leave. It was mid 40's and foggy for the entire day today. That's ok though. As I recall it was single digits early December last year.

I'm getting the itch to make my own Chex mix. I like to sauce it up some and lately I've read that the original recipe had lime juice in it.

The Bears play Washington tomorrow. We shall see.

It looks like Jenny and Joe are coming over tonight and we're heading to the Up and Under to see King Solomon play.

Dinner looks to be good tonight. We're having a ribeye as I had a hunkering for a hunk of red meat!

Later

Heyward Signs

Jason Heyward signed with the Cubs today for slightly less money than he could have signed for at a couple other places. The Cubs are just stacked offensively now and a pretty good staff. I can't wait for spring training to start!

We stopped at Spitfire for a happy hour party. I kept my eye on the tv and watched the Warriors stay undefeated in overtime.

 Other than that a pretty uneventful day. Possibly seeing King Solomon tomorrow night.

Later

Hoverboard

I was going to buy Coco a Hoverboard for his birthday in January then I see where the batteries are exploding and burning down houses so it looks like I'll be shopping for something different now.

The Cubs are making a hard push for Jason Heyward. A tremendous young player and the free agent market isn't very strong next year so it looks like the Cubs are trying to strike while the iron is hot.

It was 17 years ago that the Space Station was launched and set up in orbit. Since then hundreds of people have been in it. I will never be one of them. I've never had a desire to go into space or go scuba diving. I like to breathe naturally I guess. I've skydived twice in my life. Believe me, I was breathing just fine hoping on the way down that it wouldn't be my last breathe.

We hit 57 degrees today but a terrible wind storm brewed up later in the afternoon. I'm not complaining though. Unseasonably warm is certainly an understatement.

Happy hour at Spitfire tomorrow for Krissy's work. If you can find me there I'll buy you a drink!

Later

The Boss Is Coming

It's been a busy day and the whole house smells like pork. Krissy slow roasted one in the crockpot today and it was delicious.

The weather remains great as we hit 50 degrees today. It's been the warmest December I can ever remember 9 days into the month. We hit a record for November and October also.

It's official. Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band are making a stop in Milwaukee in March. We might have a conflict depending on Arizona plans if we can afford to go. Ironically he plays in Arizona March 10th. I'm waiting to see if he plays a stadium summer tour also. I've seen him many of times but it's been about 5 years it seems but I did see him twice during that tour.

Later

Anglin Brothers

You know it' a weird wild day when a guy like Dick Cheney won't even stand up for Donald Trump and his whacky mouth. Trump still looks like the favorite to win the GOP and even if he doesn't he'll run as a third party I predict.

The Cubs traded Starlin Castro to the Yankees for a decent pitcher and signed free agent Ben Zobrist who can play just about every position. I'm going to miss Starlin but in Theo I trust because he's turned the Cubs around very quickly.

I watched a new special on the Alcatraz prison escape on the History Channel I believe and it was a good one. There's some decent proof especially photographs that an expert believes to be the brothers long after the escape living in Brazil.

Apparently, they body surfed using stolen cables hooked to the midnight guard boats rudder and made their way to shore quite easily. Get this, there was a witness at the time who saw people coming ashore in Frisco but he was quickly dismissed as not being reliable. The U.S Marshall in charge looked at all the evidence and concluded on the photograph evidence that he believed it to be the Anglin Brothers, John and Clarence living in Brazil. The FBI had received tips that the brothers were living there 3 years after the escape but never followed up due to extradition laws. Fascinating stuff!

Later

Pearl Harbor Day

Pearl Harbor happened on this day in 1941. My friends mother was actually born that very day. There's still a few vets around from that day and they are all in their 90's.

There's a new snow leopard in the Milwaukee Zoo. He should love this weather and I'm sure the snow will come soon!

Summerfest has a new 5 day pass special that costs the same as a 3 day pass. I think we'll jump on that deal. Last year we paid twice as much for the season pass and went 7 times but the lineup wasn't particularly strong for us so we'll try the 5 and see how that works out.

The Cubs re-signed Trevor Cahill after a stron October showing. I feel good about the team even if they don't make another move. Sometimes you're best move is the one that you don't do.

All the talk lately about the Iowa Caucuses. An awful lot of importance placed for about 122,000 that actually vote. It can make or break a candidate and as far as I'm concerned it's an antique of a way to vote if it even made sense back then. You actually have to show up at a person's house, hang around the entire evening then stand up and announce your vote. Really???? What jackass invented this method, Donald Trump!!!

Later

Sinatra 100th

We just drove back from soccer practice to catch the end of the Frank Sinatra 100th Celebration concert. Good thing I taped it. It looks great from what I've seen so far. One of my few regrets in life. I had a chance to see him in Chicago but I did something else and figured I'd catch him next time in town. There was no next time!

The Bears blew a big game today that they should have won. The kicker blew two field goals today and he's been struggling this year. Not sure if they'll draft one this year or not but I'd consider it.

Coco and I watched the game at the new Rosati's and had pizza. It was a great afternoon until the overtime.

Enjoy your week!

Later

Beyond The Sea

We watched a Kevin Spacey movie today called Beyond The Sea. It's about the singer Bobby Darin. A very interesting movie. His older sister was actually his mother. Unfortunately he died at age 37 with heart problems. I never knew he was the first singer that made Mack the Knife into a really big hit.

The Cubs signed John Lackey to a free agent contract. He's been a solid pitcher and his playoff record is outstanding. Nice signing!

Character actor Robert Loggia passed away at the age of 85. He was fabulous in Scarface.

Last night was fun. The girls love the Amy Schumer show. David, Gary and I hung around the house then we all went to The Standard across the street. Unfortunately Steve couldn't make it last night. The life of a UPS driver is no joke in December!!!

Later

A Schumer Friday

Amy Schumer is in town tonight at the Bradley Center. The girls are going while the guys hit a bar or two. Should be interesting.

The Packers pulled out a last second win last night on a Hail Mary pass. It sure silenced the Detroit crowd.

The officially rescheduled their October concert for March. Tickets actually went on sale last October. So, for people who bought them right away it will be a 17 month lag until the actual concert. Somebody is having fun sitting on all that cash.

Coldplay was announced as the Super Bowl halftime show. I actually saw them at the Rave in 2001 before they were huge and they are a great band and I've seen them since.

Stay safe and happy tonight!

Later

Busy Day and A Big Game

Oh what a game! Coco started and played 29 minutes. Scored a real nice bucket at the end with stingy defense again. He missed his two free throws in the second half though. We had a little talk about that as we worked on it all summer and he changed his second shot after missing the first which he did last year without good results. They won big though and he had a ton of fun. A little winded playing all those minutes so he'll be doing some running on Saturday!

We're cleaning house and watching the Packers game. The crew is coming to see Amy Schumer tomorrow night.

It looks like Tiger Woods might miss the upcoming golf season. Nerve damage to the back is slowing him down and he's had a couple procedures. Right now he's just limited to walking. Once the knees gave him problems he seemed to change his swing a bit and messed up his back. Now he's a big underdog when he plays and if he ever plays again. I'm betting on a decent return and maybe taking off next year would be a blessing. Gotta keep rooting for the old guys!

Later

Foggy Memory

Holy cow! I completely forgot my blog yesterday. I once ran for 6 1/2 years every single day until one day I just forgot. Last night we had a basketball game and St. Marcus won. Coco played his best game ever making a tough bucket surrounded by 3 guys and his defense was astounding. Some kid became a little frustrated and grabbed his shirt and Coco actually threw him down to the ground. No foul called by the refs and you gotta love that!

The Downer Theater turns 100 this month. It's another classic gem just small but does a great business. I plan on going there to see Trumbo as it looks like an astounding movie.

Saw part of a special on the building of the Golden Gate Bridge. They actually installed a net under part of it to minimize worker's falling to their death. Note that they stressed minimize not eliminate. Corporations are always about dollars and sense and never about heart and souls!

Later

Cyber Monday

It's more like Cyber Month will all the emails from stores that I get every day. Some stores send out 3-4 a day. I'm not even sure how some of them have my email address unless Radio Shack sold them my info that one time I bought batteries!

It's pouring rain right now. Luckily, it's warm enough that it's not snow. Coco had basketball practice tonight and now he has it again at 6:30am followed by a game tomorrow night. It's like they are in the NBA.

Winter parking rules go into effect tomorrow and it's tough during blizzards for those of us on Milwaukee's Eastside. It happens every year but yet the politicians offer no solutions. I won't complain because I knew the problems moving in and I chalk it off to the price you pay to live somewhere cool!

There's a new bestseller on the New York Times list and it's actually an old classic. Since the Paris attacks The Moveable Feast which is set in Paris has gone to number one. It's written by my personal favorite Mr. Ernest Hemingway. He's been gone since 1961 and he still has it. Thanks Papa.

Later

End Of Hurricane Season

Tomorrow is the official end of Hurricane season and Florida escaped any serious storms. The weather here looks good for the next 10 days with high 30's and low 40's so we're looking good.

Coco had soccer practice again tonight and he looked really good. Even got some shots off in practice but the goalie made some real nice saves. Basketball practice for him tomorrow then 2 games this week. They started off with a win last week. They've never lost a game yet ever and this is their 3rd season together. He actually started the first game.

Bug paid us a visit today and Krissy took her for a long run with her friend Ruth Ann.

Just finishing up some work and going to bed hoping for a great week!

Later

On The Road Again

A long day on the road to Illinois and back but a good time had by all at my sister Cindy's house for a very nice dinner.

Guy Lewis the legendary retired coach of the University of Houston passed away this week. Twice he was the Coach of the Year and had some high flying teams in the 80's.

We went through 8 to 10 tolls on the round trip to Illinois and back at a 1.40 a toll. If Wisconsin goes the way of the toll roads I'm pretty sure I would move fairly fast.

Going to bed now!

Later

Green Friday

With all the rain we received these last 2 weeks it's quite green out for this time of year. I'm still feeling good about that Bears victory last night!

A rather uneventful day except for the right rear blinker going out on the Jeep. It does tell you though on the dashboard that it's out. Not an expensive repair but getting the tail light cover off was a time consuming event. No screws but plugs that you have to pry off. Very bizarre.

I even took a trip to the mall. Not really that crowded and parking still available. I'm betting online sales were huge!

We've been watching that Hunting Hitler show on the History Channel. Out of all the shows this one has some validity to it rather than rampant speculation. I've been doing some research on it and many people at the time felt like Hitler did indeed escape. Argentina seems to be the popular landing ground for him if it happened.

Now Coco and I are putting a Hot Wheel track together. Talk about a company making some green!!!!

Later

Bears Win On Turkey Day

What a fabulous Thanksgiving. The Bears win at Lambeau Field on Brett Favre's retirement number ceremony. That just made my night and my week and my month!!!!

Krissy, Coco and I spent most of the day in Illinois at her family's place. A wonderful spread as usual and great company.

It's been pouring rain all day was the only downfall. But it didn't bother me at all. Because the Bears WON!!!

Get some sleep and thank you to everyone who reads my blog from time to time. Especially someone in France today and I wish nothing but peace to France. I look forward to the day I visit!

Later

Comedy Cafe

The streets of Milwaukee have been a little less crowded today with many people leaving town for the holiday. It seems to happen most holidays. Krissy and I headed over to Victor's and met Christy and Tony for drinks then our venture to the Comedy Cafe.

I've never been to Victor's before 10pm before. It's like a time warp from the 70's but they had a free Thanksgiving buffet which was very good. Then they have a bus that transports everyone to the Comedy Cafe.

The first two acts were pretty weak but Nate the third guy was pretty good. Kevin Williams was the feature act and he was very good. Then back to Victor's via the bus and now we're home and ready for bed. We have a two hour drive tomorrow. 

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving everyone!

Later

One Expensive Dress

One of Judy Garland's dresses from the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz just sold 1.56 million bucks. The other one in existences sold for less than half of that 3 years ago so the economy must be picking up. The Cowardly Lion costume sold for 3 million bucks a few years ago. I'm willing to bet that the whole film cost less than that to make in 1939.

Adele is going to be on Saturday Night Live this Saturday. She just broke a 4 day record for total sales. Not a bad Christmas for Adele. I wish she would have done the last Bond film title song. She was brilliant with Skyfall!

I ventured to the grocery store today for less than 10 items. Lets just say it was an adventure. Tomorrow night will be even worse. In 2007 I took my Toyota FJ Cruiser into a grocery store underground parking lot the night before Thanksgiving. It was too tall and I took out a piece of duct work and had to back out with a line of cars directly behind me. That  was a 30 minute debacle with plenty of people swearing at me. Good times!

Later

Dixie Chicks

The Dixie Chicks are going on a large 2016 tour. Not a lot of Midwest dates but I did see the period of Summerfest was completely empty so who knows. They are the biggest selling all female band of all time.

Adele had her new album have a giant sales weekend. I think I might buy this one myself. if she comes into the area I will be looking for tickets.

Happy Birthday to Angela and my Dad. I won't tell anyone your ages. At least not in print!

It's the Bears-Packers game on Thanksgiving night! I can't wait!!

Unfortunately it looks like there's only 3 Northern White Rhinos left in the world as one was put down this week. 

We bought this huge block of solid caramel at the German Christmas celebration at the Pabst Brewery on Saturday. I can't quit eating it!

Later

The Full Day

We woke up and everybody went to the Simple Cafe for breakfast and met Jim and Joanne (Krissy's Parents). A very nice breakfast place and I can see why it's so popular. Coco and I then took my Dad and Dee back to Elkhorn then made it back to watch the second half of the Bears game which they lost.

Then it was off to Coco's soccer practice. It's a full and tough two hours which I enjoy watching. He's learning a lot. Now, I'm sitting at the computer working on some writing and planning the busy holiday week ahead.

It's like mid-winter out there now and a basketball game tomorrow!

Later

Some Like It Hot

What a cold day. About 27 degrees and a crunchy 5 inches of snow like mid January.

My Dad, Dee, Krissy, Coco and I went to the German Christmas event at the Pabst Brewery. What a magnificent compound of old buildings. Coco purchased a hand blown white Christmas ornament. He really likes Christmas ornaments for some reason.

We met a guy there with his wife and he's a huge Trump fan. Really big fan in no uncertain terms.

Krissy made her homemade stew and we played cards. Then we watched Some Like It Hot, a 1959 movie with Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon and Marilyn Monroe and directed by the legendary Billy Wilder. What a great movie and I had never saw it before.

Interesting though was that Jack Lemmon has some Jim Carrey like mannerisms back then. Obviously Carrey picked them up from Jack Lemmon somewhere along the route. Looking outside the window now wishing I was somewhere hot!

Later

The First Snow

Well, it looks like we're in for a snow storm.  They already salted the roads and the first flurries are just now coming down. We finished breaking down the back yard and thru some tarps over some furniture. We tried to hang onto the nice weather as long as possible.

My Dad and Dee are in town and we went to Pitch's for dinner. Now lounging around and playing cards.

Big Bears game Sunday. A win and we might actually make a playoff push.

Tomorrow we're heading to the Pabst Brewery for their German Christmas celebration!

Be safe tonight and hopefully we're not shovelling too much tomorrow!

Later

The Wussification Of America

First, I'd like to give a big kudos to the City of Milwaukee for moving the Bastille Days Eiffel Tower down to City Hall with amazing lights and a beautiful tribute to Paris. It backs up traffic at night but I don't care it's really cool. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to take a photo yet.

Indiana Governor Mike Pence is a real piece of crap with feet. A family of Syrian refugees with a 5 year old child were basically kicked out of Indiana today despite being vetted SINCE 2012 after fleeing from Syria in 2011. They could be bombers you know! I have more faith and trust in the FBI and Homeland Security than any backwards ass country fool of a Governor and I'm from a town of 200 people so no emails please. I give a big kudos to Governor Malloy and the fine people of Connecticut for immediately taking them in.

Ben Carson the brain surgeon from idiotsville compared the refugees to Rabid Dogs today then blamed the media for reporting that. Hey Ben, if you don't like what's being reported then quit staying stupid shit. Have a nice Thanksgiving dinner with Governor Pence and your Army of guards because you seem to be afraid of everything.

Is this what America has come to? It seems that way for 50% of the population who just seem to love the weapon of fear. We live in a world where every kid gets a trophy and the NFL has become a touch football league. Does my best stock pick next year have to be the makers of Depends?

The Gettysburg Address was delivered 152 years ago today by Abraham Lincoln. The so called Party of Lincoln would make him puke in his coffin today. Lincoln was a tough guy who didn't panic and over react every time something went wrong.

Do the words on the Statue of Liberty mean anything to 50% of this country or was it merely a suggestion? Oh by the way, it was given to us by France. Get tougher America before I start investing in diapers and Depends!

Later

Arrieta Wins Cy Young

Congrats to Jake Arrieta on winning the NL Cy Young Award today making it 3 official awards in 3 days for the Cubs. What a week and the future looks bright!

Coco and Krissy commented on my briefcase today. Yes, it is a James Bond Zero Halliburton briefcase that Pierce Brosnan used in a Bond movie which I believe was Tomorrow Never Dies and Daniel Craig also used in Quantum of Solace.

Aaron Rodgers has a bum throwing shoulder and is on the injury report list. This means that he will probably have a great game on Sunday.

Doug Flutie's parents passed away less than an hour apart today. His father from a heart attack in the hospital and his mother somewhere else. My friends grandparents passed away 3 days apart when I was a kid and I thought that was close together. Doug Flutie is a heck of a great guy so condolences to his family. When he played for the Bears he hung out with my friends and I at Sluggers Bar and Grill in Vernon Hills, IL. He didn't know anybody else and he would play sports games especially wall ball and talk to anyone who approached him. I was actually an inch taller than him. 

On a further sidetrack, I was landing at Logan Airport in Boston for a National Championship race when he threw a famously long touchdown pass to win a game for Boston College. The plane almost flipped over with loud screams when the pilot announced it. Yep, it was full of Boston College fans!

Later

Congrats Joe Maddon

Joe Maddon won his 4th Manager of the Year award. He's the best all around manager that I've ever seen. He totally made the difference this year with 4 rookies often in the starting lineup.

It's rainy and cold today and it doesn't look like to will stop until 4pm tomorrow. Luckily it isn't colder or this would be a blizzard!

Bobby Jindahl dropped out of the Presidential race saying it's not his time. It never is your time when you run a state into the ground and both people running to replace you keep stating that. That's never a good thing for your legacy. No surprise that you are going to work for a think tank that you started. Nobody really thought you would get an honest job other than being a professional complainer and whiner and you didn't let us down.

The Leonid meteor shower will be happening tonight around midnight. I'm wondering if I'll be able to see it through all this rain!

Later

USS Milwaukee

The USS Milwaukee is down at the lakefront this week for tours as it's being commissioned. It's a Navy ship built with speed with 4 water jet engines instead of a typical prop boat.

The Key West Film Festival starts Wednesday and goes through the 22nd. Papa will premiere there as it's the new bio film about Hemingway. I haven't been able to find a release date yet but I will be there to see it. It was actually filmed in Cuba.

Ken Burns has a documentary about Hemingway in production. It won't be ready for viewing until 2019. He has around 100 working ideas for documentaries.

Kris Bryant officially won the National League Rookie of the Year award today by unanimous vote. He had quite a year!

Ron White is making another Milwaukee appearance. Krissy took me a couple years ago for my birthday to see him and it was a great show.

Local legend David Monroe passed away late last week. Krissy actually used to work with him at the Milwaukee Public Museum. He's often been described as the local intellectual who was a great DeeJay as he spun records in several clubs over the years. All the local blogger comments say the same thing. That he always had a bunch of books and papers under his arm and that he was a very intelligent guy who passed away from cancer too soon. I regret never meeting the man as I enjoy talking to people about various topics especially if they are off the wall. Apparently he had a sense of humor as his very last Facebook posting says "David Monroe mourns the death of  David Michael Monroe." I always admire those that leave this earth with a final chuckle.

Later

Recovery Sunday

Dinner last night at the Brass Alley was terrific. I had the bbq shrimp and Krissy ordered the skirt steak. The cheesy grits were phenomenal and I ordered a Serenac whisky drink which was excellent.

We finished the night at Pitch's, Thurmans and the Standard Tavern. We were still up at 3am eating snacks in the kitchen with Amy and Dave.

I actually watched the Bears win in bed. What a terrific game and I ordered a Rosatti's pizza which made my day.

Coco started his indoor practice tonight for 2 hours. The groin looks fine but we need to grab a pair of indoor shoes. It's going to be a long double season and I wouldn't doubt if they add another one in March!

Later

Brass Alley

Busy day as we have company. We're going to the Brass Alley for dinner. It's a New Orleans restaurant with plenty of cajun food. Gary, Michelle, Dave, Amy, Steve and Holly are all hovering by me as I write.

We did make it to 2 rummage estate sales at former bars today. I bought 2 Budweiser mugs for 3 bucks each and EBay has them for 18 each. Then I bought a beer tin for a buck and EBay has it for 40 bucks. Woo haw! Gotta run, I'm bartending for the group!

Later

Friday the 13th

Well it was certainly a bad luck day in Paris. The death toll keeps rising as I watch the news. This seems to be the new normal sadly.

Another cold and windy day in Milwaukee. We used our electric start for the first time on the Jeep and it's pretty cool. Hopefully we can get a prime parking spot in front of the house and use it all winter.

Coco is all signed up for winter soccer in January but practice starts this Sunday night. It's with older kids but I'm betting he holds his own.

Krissy and I went to the mall and Best Buy to run some errands. That Microsoft Surface 3 keeps drawing my attention.

After that it was lunch at PF Changs which was just ok and then to Otto's for beer and wine for company tomorrow night. There Red Stripe special is back on so I'll be visiting soon again as last time it lasted for a whole month.

Be safe out there this weekend!

Later

Baseball Winter Meetings

Today was a slow day in Milwaukee and apparently with the Cubs at the baseball winter meetings. Come on Cubs, sign a big free agent pitcher so we feel better because we are already looking forward to next year.

Cold and real windy today. No snow so I'm fine with it.

I was writing yesterday and listening to the Genesis documentary they play on cable once in a while. They really did have a string of hits in the 80's seldom matched by anybody. MTV really put them on top because they were already a theatrical band especially when Peter Gabriel was part of it. I've seen Gabriel solo and Genesis in concert. Both were fantastic shows.

I cooked a ribeye in my skillet for Krissy and I for dinner. It's not quite the same as grilling outside but I can blacken one up pretty good in my cast iron skillet.

Later

Allen Toussaaint

Rock N Roll Hall of Famer Allen Toussaint passed away yesterday of a heart attack at the age of 77. Jimmy Buffett was a huge fan and always played with him at the New Orleans Jazz FestivaL when Toussaint lived there. Radio Margaritaville was playing tribute to him all day long and he will be missed.

Lou Brock the baseball Hall of Famer lost a leg today in his battle with diabetes. The same thing happened to Cubs legend Ron Santo years ago. Get well Lou and hopefully you fulfill your wish of being at opening day!

Coco us being signed up tomorrow for an advanced soccer league. Pretty excitin stuff and he'll probably be the youngest guy on the team. I sure love the indoor soccer with the fast action and high scoring.

Severe thunderstorms happening right now in Milwaukee. Pretty loud but at least its not snow!

Later

Milwaukee Debate

It's the 40th anniversary of the Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. Gordon Lightfoot wrote a brilliant song about it but I'm not sure how many young people know it's a real event. It left Superior, WI with 29 people aboard and it went down in one of the earliest November storms ever. They pulled up the bell in 1995 and it is in a museum. The ship was over 700 feet long and was named after the Northwestern Mutual CEO when it was built. It actually rests over 500 feet below the surface in Canadian waters and it's illegal to dive to it.

Krissy and I went to the Central Library to hear author Ann Marie Walker speak about writing and selling books. Then we walked to Major Goolsby's for dinner which just happens to be next to the Milwaukee Theater which was hosting the GOP debate so we watched it right next door. The service people working didn't seem to pleased when every candidate said NO to a raise in the minimum wage. I probably wouldn't count on their vote!

It was a fairly small crowd outside and not a lot of energy. I've heard there was about 4000 people inside the theater. I watched the entire debate and watched the crowd from different angles and I feel confident in saying that the GOP has absolutely no chance in this election regardless of candidates on either side simply because of demographics. The entire crowd was old white people. Even in the coverage afterwards there were few young people and I couldn't see one single person of color besides two camera people. To be fair, I didn't see the wait staff!

Later

Milwaukee In The Spotlight

The GOP debate comes to the gorgeous Milwaukee Theater tomorrow night. I couldn't get tickets for some reason but it would have been fun to see live. It's good for the city although I'm disappointed that the RNC packs it with homers.

Instead, I'll tape it and be at the Milwaukee Public Library to see noted author Ann Marie Walker speak about writing and publishing. Afterwards, I'll meet Krissy at Blu and we'll have some cocktails and see what politicians decide to drink their sadness away at Blu. It's on top of the world famous Pfister Hotel.

The Bears played a good overall game to beat the Chargers on Monday Night Football. Jay Cutler played great. He's actually a top 50 quarterback statistically and has a winning record since coming into the league. He became the Bears all time leading touchdown passer in the game tonight.

The Bulls also won tonight. Maybe things are starting to look up after all!!

Later

Going British

I'm not sure why but I can't go without my afternoon tea lately. I started that about a month ago when the temps dipped now I find myself making myself tea every afternoon to take the chill off like the Brits!

I keep hearing about people cooking pizza on the grill. I've never tried that before and it's a bit late in the grilling season to try it but I will give it a shot next year for what it's worth.

The Key West World Championship powerboat races start today and go through November 15th. That's going to be a lot of speed down there this week.

In 1939 the United States had only the 19th largest armed services in the world. Then the war started and we quickly built it to number one and we've been spending tons ever since to keep it that way.

Enjoy the new week!

Later

Spectre Review From Milwaukee

Coco and I went to the Oriental to see Spectre this afternoon. Krissy went to Stevens Point with her family to visit her nephew Dom so we were solo. 

I'd rate it very good but not quite as good as Skyfall which I thought was brilliant. All 4 of the Daniel Craig movies are intertwined unlike anything else in the series. Sure, some of the same bad guys and Spectre were in other films but the Craig series played out almost real time in sequence for movies if that makes any sense.

I've always been certain that Craig would be back for at least one more if not two more films as that would really solidify him as the "best" Bond ever for a lot of people. At least a threat to Sean Connery who is the most popular for sure. I've actually enjoyed every single Bond in their own way. I was a big Pierce Brosnan fan as I give him credit for reviving the series after they stopped filming for a while. For the record, as most people know I own every Bond movie, have seen them all at least double digits except for From Russia With Love. I own numerous books, soundtracks, have a Bond suit and two expensive pairs of Bond sunglasses one of which was on the set of a Bond movie and I had to order them from a place in England. I even own a Bond lunchbox. 

Anyway, the way Spectre ended and recent comments from Daniel Craig makes me double think that he will make any more Bond films. If he does I'm sure it will only be one more now. I can tell that he's noticeably aged since he started filming Casino Royale just over 10 years ago. He's only made one other good film besides the Bond films in that time period so he probably wants to prove a point.

I watched the full credits carefully because they always indicate for sure if another one is coming out and sometimes even the  title. There was none of that which will lead to a lot of speculation on another audition for the next James Bond. There's only two things I know for sure. There will be another great James Bond movie and I'll be taking my high school aged son to that one. Yikes!

Later

JB Going To Havana

A busy but uneventful friday. I did catch part of a documentary on the Unabomber. I still remember how big that was when they finally caught him. The guy had a genius IQ but still couldn't couldn't remember a popular saying and he wrote it wrong in his manifesto which is how his brother recognized it was him.

Coco and I are watching the Curse of Oak Island marathon. It's an island off Nova Scotia with a buried treasure on it and possibly the Holy Grail. The producer is Ken Burns of the famous documentary fame and they people involved are all scientists and intelligent people putting a lot of time and money into their exploration.

Jimmy Buffett played at the Parrot Head convention in Key West Thursday night. I heard he played a whole album which seems to be the trend these days which I think is pretty cool. On Saturday night he will be playing in Havana, Cuba which is even cooler. Nobody could have imagined that a couple years ago!

Later

Poetry Night

Krissy and I had a wonderful night at Coco's Poetry Night at St. Marcus. He did a nice job reciting his poem and the upperclassmen did a bang up job with some very deep and insightful poetry. Very proud of all those kids.

We stopped at Glorioso's on the way home to grab some Italian Beef. We actually walked because it's 74 degrees today. Then to the Roman Coin for a couple drinks.

We received our first Christmas Cards of the season today. Both of us actually each received one. Ok, they were from the local Salvation Army but it's nice to be remembered!

Blake Shelton is coming to Summerfest on July 1st. That's 2 headliners they've announced already and Winter hasn't even begun. Ok gotta run. My beef is ready!!!

Later

It's Basketball Time Again

I attended the mandatory parents meeting for St. Marcus tonight. It was a huge turnout. Basketball is certainly King at St, Marcus. This will be Coco's third season with his team and they are undefeated in both years.Yes, they've never lost a game. They are a true joy to watch and a few refs have commented that they've never seen a team that good at that age in 40 years of being a ref. That's something!

No Bond movie tonight. Too busy with other things so we'll go this weekend.

Marco Rubio was accused of improperly charging personal items to a State of Florida government credit card years ago. In an effort to clear his name he stated that it wasn't a credit card but an American Express charge card. Oh, ok, it's all good then! Really??? Once a lawyer always a lawyer I guess. He blamed the travel agent for using the wrong credit card for a $10,000 family reunion that lasted 4 days. That's a lot of coin for 4 days to see some relatives but I was wondering why the travel agent was going through your wallet to pick a card instead of yourself. Oh, was it American Express? Cause then it's all good! You fricking politicians are a joke these days! 

Later

Happy Days

Coco is finally recovered from his stomach illness and looks ready to get back to a normal life. We watched an episode of Happy Days last night. He had never seen the show before. He recognized Henry Winkler from something else he saw on television but had no idea who 'Fonzie' was. I was kind of shocked. It was one of the most popular shows off all time and when I was his age everyone knew the 'Fonz.' 

The Parrothead convention starts tomorrow in Key West. Jimmy Buffett fans from around the world converge upon Key West for a week's worth of fun and music. You know you're doing well when when people have a convention for you and you're still alive and/or not imaginary like Batman or James Bond who's convention they hold in California every year.

Congrats to new House Speaker Paul Ryan who's first action was to move up the August House recess 2 weeks so they have a total of 7 weeks off straight instead of just 5. These guys hardly work as it is. I have no idea what we pay them for. There's not even a good convention in July for these bums to go to!

Later

The Smartest President

According to a recent study John Quincy Adams was our smartest President with an IQ of 168. Nobody else was even close. Thomas Jefferson was 2nd at 153 followed by John F. Kennedy at 150. Bill Clinton finished 4th at 148 and Woodrow Wilson rounded out the top 5 at 145. It was an interesting study to say the least.

It's finally here. Bond week. Spectre is released to the public on the 6th and we have pre-screening passes from Sony for a Wednesday viewing. I usually wear my James Bond suit along with a Bond tie and one of my pairs of James Bond sunglasses to each Bond movie. I usually see it at the Oriental Theater but the pre-screen is at a modern theater. Not sure what I'll wear now. Such a dilemma!

Coco had some stomach issues since 3am so stayed home today. Appears to be food poisoning and he looked like death at noon but by 6pm he looks totally fine.

So I had him watch a documentary by Ken Burns about the Civil War. They had some interesting footage for the 75th anniversary of Gettysburg in 1938. Someone taped Union and Confederate soldiers lined up against one of the brick walls facing each other shaking hands. They all appeared to be in the 90's and they all had canes. They genuinely seemed to like each other also after all those years. I guess time does heal all wounds!

Later

Now It's Xmas Time

Yep, the Christmas commercials were pouring out of the television today right after Halloween ended. I hope they back off it for a while but I doubt it. We're hitting 70's a lot this week so I'm not really in the spirit yet!

The Bears defense gave away their game against the Vikings in the 4th quarter today. Plus another punt got returned for a touchdown. The season is officially done.

Halloween was interesting last night. Brady Street looked more like Duval or Bourbon Streets. A lot of great costumes and expensive also. Somebody had a Dark Crystal costume like looked eerily real and he or she won first place at the Nomad. Unfortunately a reveler dressed up in a Captain America costume drowned just down the street early in the morning at the marina. We saw several Captain America's last night and I'm not really sure if it was one we saw. Halloween and NYE and ST. Patrick's Day all have had fatalities by drowning in the last few years. Time to take a step back and think a little harder I think. Fun should be fun but don't go overboard.

Later

A Saturday Halloween

I can't remember the last time Halloween was on a Saturday. I'm not really a big Halloween fan but it does seem to be an adult holiday now. To top it off the clocks change tonight and the bars get an extra hour. Usually, when the bars get an extra hour it's a bit messy but combine it with Halloween and it could be really interesting.

They are blocking off some side roads tonight off of Brady Street and they were putting up port-a-potties. Looks like they are expecting big crowds.

Big Al from Happy Days passed away at the age of 96. He replaced Arnold when he got his own series. Ironically, Al Molinaro was born in Kenosha, WI so the part wasn't a huge stretch for him.

American Pharoah won his final race today. A horse for the ages perhaps. I've seen Cigar race in person and Secretariat on television. I think he'd be third against those two but it's not bad company. Cigar had the personality of a human and just liked to win at all costs and Secretariat was from a different planet. The best there was and maybe ever will.

Stay safe.

Later

Breeders Cup Time

American Pharoah runs his final career race tomorrow at the Breeders Cup. He's one of the best horses to come around in a long time and I'm hoping you goes out a champion!

The Bulls are taking Detroit into overtime tonight but it looks like they are running out of gas.

Coco is up in the Dells this weekend. He'll start physical therapy next week for his groin injury.

The RNC pulled a February debate away from NBC because they didn't like how the last one went. I'm sure they must have some kind of contract and I hope the network fights back. It's kind of like someone taking their ball and going home because it wasn't going their way. We used to pound the crap out of guys like that. Don't much like quitters son!

Later

X Ray Day

Well, I took Coco to Children's Hospital for x-rays today for his groin. He will need some physical therapy for an apparent groin tear. It turns out to be a common soccer injury. I also got him on a 7th and 8th grade indoor soccer team for the winter despite only being a 6th grader.

Leaving the hospital I actually found the season's first ice patch on the sidewalk. The wind chill was very cold today.

The Bulls won their second straight game last night. Woo hoo!

Angela is in town for the weekend. Krissy saw her this morning.

We won free passes for an early screening of Spectre, the new James Bond movie. It's not at the Oriental Theater but free is free and we get to see it two days before it's released the public. Things are looking up!

Later

Catch That Blimp

An Army blimp got loose today and floated 4 hours before crashing back to earth. It didn't take long for Governor Huckabee do make it a symbol of the government. I'm not sure what neighborhood he lives in but it must be shitty to have such a depressing attitude on America.

The Bulls won their opener last night with President Obama in the stands watching. Maybe he needs to come around more often.

The debate has been another entertainment joy. When the questions get tough they just blame the media. Cruz and Rubio must have got their ass kicked a lot as children judging by their blame everybody else attitude. It's pretty apparent that they need it kicked again as adults.

Kasich is about the only person standing up and giving good answers and not whining. I do like him.

Later

A Dog Named Trigger

Apparently the chocolate Labrador didn't have any official gun training and neither did his 25 year old owner. She was hunting and put her rifle on the ground without the safety on. Trigger stepped on the rifle and shot his owner in the foot. Hopefully this idiot drives better than she handles a gun or hunts!

The Bulls are taking on the Cavs tonight in official NBA play. So far the Bulls look pretty good with a 9 point lead in the second quarter.

 We saw the previews for Robert Redford's new movie called Truth. It looks like a winner.

It looks like maybe 8 of us are going to Amy Schumer possibly. Tickets go on sale tomorrow.

No more processed red meats. Looks like they cause cancer the experts say. I don't eat a lot of processed meats, mostly fresh and on the grill. Except for bacon of course. I'm going to miss bacon. Yep, bacon is going to be a tough one. Yep, really really tough!

Later

Amy Schumer

Amy Schumer is coming to the Bradley Center on December 4th. She's been on quite the roll these last 2 years as she's brutally honest and original. She's played Milwaukee before but this time we might have to consider going as Krissy really likes her.

Kris Bryant was named the Sporting News Rookie of the Year. He broke a bunch of Cubs rookie records, some belonging to Hall of Famer Billy Williams which isn't bad company. He'll only continue to get better.

The Russians apparently have submarines scouting the underwater cables in the Atlantic Ocean. I guess it's major problems if they get cut or damaged. Whatever happened to wireless technology. At the Southernmost Point in KeyWest you can actually see the start of the telephone cable that was routed to Cuba years ago.

Krissy found that Bond poster I like on EBay. They apparently have everything. I even have choices. What a great world!

Later

Goebberts Pumpkin Farm

What a great day with a lot of family at the pumpkin patch in Illinois. It's a huge place kind of like a small amusement park with a train and everything. Coco had a blast with all of his cousins. Dinner afterwards at Mary and Steve's was great.

No Bears game today so no heartache.

Flip Saunders the Minnesota Timberwolves coach passed away today. Such a good guy and a legend in coaching circles. He will be missed.

Enjoy the new week tomorrow. I'm tired from all the driving and going to bed.

Later

The Lost City

We've been watching a documentary about the Lost City of Atlantis which Coco knows about. We cleaned his room today. I believe that might qualify as a lost room at least. It looks pretty good now though.

I've given up on my football picks. Too time consuming even though I was ahving a good year. Baseball preoccupied most of my time now it's back to doing a lot of writing projects.

Tomorrow it's to Illinois for the Pumpkin Patch with family members. This place is like a giant amusement park.

Maureen O'Hara passed away at age 95. She was a legendary actress and starred in 5 John Wayne movies including my personal favorite Big Jake. She will be missed!

Enjoy your weekend!

Later

Two Bridges and Eating Healthy

What a wonderful afternoon and a great movie. We saw Two Bridges with Tom Hanks. The guy just makes great movies. I won't give away anything other than to say go see it. It's the best movie I've seen in years!

We started out at 2ish with a great lunch at Comet Cafe. Truly a great meal. Then, to Hooligans for a beer before the movie. The na couple beers at  the movie. Then to Von Triers the greatest German bar for a beer then to the Winchester for a beer. Then to Landmark for a beer. Just great people everywhere and having fun with Krissy. I'm trying to buy the James Bond poster in the lobby and I think I'm number one on the list. I'll just badger them until I get it no worries.

We were going to make one more stop but its late and we got tired. So, we stopped at Walgreens for some dinner snacks, You know, ice cream, soda, nerds, 100,000 bars, chips and 2 giant candy bars along with the Dunkin Donuts I bought earlier. Yep, eating healthy!

Later

Iron Lung

I'm still reeling over the Cubs loss last night. It's wait till next year once again but the future does look really good this time. So many rookies and second year players in the lineup and they will only get better. John texted me today that the next time we see them will be in Mesa next spring!

I watched most of the Benghazi or listened to it on satellite radio today. The GOP backfired on this one and made Clinton very popular according to most of the twitter and blog feeds that I followed. I'm not a huge fan of hers but she did come off really well and some of the committee members asked some silly questions especially from Brooks in Alabama who insinuated that Clinton wasn't really aware that we had a presence in Benghazi at all. When it was pointed out to her by a fellow committee member that it's hard to cover up something and email about it beforehand if you didn't know existed she looked kind of stunned. I knew it was going very well for Clinton when Fox News became the only network to call off their coverage!

An interesting tidbit that I was reading is that there are 10 people around the world still in an iron lung and most of them are in the United States. All due to polio and most have been in there about 60 years with no hope of ever recovering. I worked with a guy who had polio that he contracted as a kid. He had trouble walking but otherwise didn't have problems. They found the cure a few months after he contracted it. Suddenly waiting for next year on the Cubs doesn't seem that awful.

Later

Grim Reaper Came Early

I'm still not giving up as we go to the bottom of the third inning down 6-0 to the Mets. I'm a diehard Cub fan until I leave this earth and it's the only way I know. It may appear the Grim Reaper has arrived but I believe we'll come back to win this game then get the next 3 with the momentum. It just takes the first run to get a rally going. I will admit you should be careful what you wish for. The Dodgers might have been a better matchup.

It appears that Coco has a small groin hernia. Getting x-rays soon to confirm.

Going to drink a Red Stripe and watch the rest of the game. Gotta get that Reaper off my back!!!!

Later

Back In Wrigley

Wayne Messmer sang the National Anthem at the Friendly Confines so we're pulling out the big guns from the start. Nobody sings it better than Wayne who is the regular Anthem singer forth Blackhawks. I'm predicting an 8-3 win as the bats will come alive!

A beautiful 73 degree day. Not bad for Milwaukee in late October.

The Humphrey Bogart Film Festival starts tomorrow in Key Largo and runs through the week. The house used as a hotel in Key Largo is still there and they also have the African Queen which has been refurbished there. I will make this event someday!

Bogart was the best actor of all time. Gotta run to catch the first pitch. Here's looking at you kid!!!!!!!

Later

The Wizard Of Oz Metaphor Story

I haven't seen the Wizard of Oz since I was in first grade nor have I given it much thought until the other day when a television commentator said it had political and monetary metaphors in it.

I did some research and he is correct. It seems like Frank Baum who wrote the story in 1890 was also a political and current events writer. The character Dorothy represents the common citizen if you believe the theory.

The Tin Man is represents the industrial worker while the Scarecrow is the farmer. It doesn't stop there, not even close. The Cowardly Lion is politician William Jennings Bryan an all talk no action politician. The Wicked Witch of the East is the bankers and the Witch in the West is actually the drought.

Still more as the Yellow Brick Road represents gold or the gold standard. While the silvery slippers are the silver market. The Emerald City is green which represents the dollar and OZ is actually the abbreviation for ounce.

Finally, the man behind the curtain is simply pulling the strings after everyone followed the Yellow Brick Road through turmoil to get there.

What does this all mean? That NOTHING has changed!

Later

A Rough Cold Sunday

Well, the Bears lose a tough one in overtime and the Cubs down 4-1 as I write. Terrible officiating overall in the NFL this year. Plays overturned, refs out of position to make the call and waiting forever on instant replay. Between that and all the commercials it's become a different game altogether.

Had a lovely dinner for Jim's birthday this afternoon. I'm hoping he doesn't drink all that Jim Beam all at once. They bought another Airstream and it's a nice one 2 feet longer but differently so it seems a lot bigger.

Game is back on. Have a great week everyone!

Later

Tough Loss At Citi Field

It's ok. The Cubs lost the series opener to St. Louis also. It looked to me that this was the Mets best. If that's their best then the Cubs will win this series in 6 games.

We grilled out tonight after grocery shopping. Maybe the last one for the year. Bug left for her new home back with Joe and she will be missed. We'll still see her once in a while though.

The heat is on and the are plants inside. Next weekend we'll take the bamboo fence down and tarp everything up.

I'll do my football picks in the morning. I still have to add up my current results for the year as I've been a bit slow on checking my results.

One thing I would recommend though is dumping the delivery stocks like FedEx and UPS.  Apple, Amazon and Uber are all coming out with package delivery systems through private drivers like Uber uses. It won't put them out of business but it sure will cut down on profits. Many people think they won't make much of a difference. That's exactly what the taxi industry said when Uber came out!

Later

Bring On The Mets

The Cubs start tomorrow in New York against the Mets and I get my wish. Addison Russell will miss the series with a hamstring injury but I have all the confidence in Javier Baez.

The Blacklist with James Spader has returned with more marvelous episodes. It's such a well written show.

Speaking of lists, Coco gave me his Christmas list early this year. Considering he added up the total value and it will cost $2012 I guess he figured I needed the extra time to save some cash.

It's stone crab season in the Keys now until May15th. I love stone crab!

Krissy and I are going to the Trocadero for dinner tonight. We have a gift certificate to use.

Scientists have done some studies on elephants as they rarely get cancer. It seems like they have more p53 genes than human beings and that could be the main reason. A big breakthrough if that's true.

We finally turned on the heat today and bringing the plants in as it's supposed to drop to 30 degrees tonight. I'm only a stones throw from buying the winter Coco Wheats now!

Later

It's Wine Season

Well, it's officially fall because it's cold enough again to drink red wine. Plus I'll be eating Coco Wheats here the next time I go to the store so that makes it official in my word. That's just the way I roll.

The plants will be coming in very soon also. I have no idea where but they will be placed but they will be coming in except for the ferns.

I was looking at new Cub hats on the internet today. They actually advertised a "vintage new era hat." How can a hat be vintage and new era at the same time? It was pretty cool though. I 'm looking for a tan desert hat with a strap and the Cubs emblem. I might have to wait for spring training.

I see expert Fox News commentator Wayne Simmons was arrested for basically impersonating CIA personnel. He put on his resume that he worked for the CIA for 27 years. It was all fabricated yet Fox News had him on as an expert blasting the military and administration with "expert" analysis. Fox News was quick to release a simple statement that he basically wasn't a paid contributor. So that makes a difference I guess. What a bunch of gutless bastards who can't say they screwed up. It makes you wonder what other idiots they have on that channel. Besides the most obvious ones naturally!

Later