Everything's Up To Date

Mention that we've been watching the Olympics. Felt it's also important to note that we are watching our new-and-improved images. That's because the Cowboy Household is hooked up the converter boxes to our rabbit-eared television sets. Seriously!

I had no idea that television watching could be so enjoyable. No more moving the set around or wiggling the rabbit ears working to get the best signal. From 19 on (higher) never truly came through without shadows and fuzz. But, it was something that was just common place.

Now, there's 18 channels. Several are all weather. About four are religious and one is Spanish language shows. It's been great watching the Olympics. Since its on NBC, 41 in Kansas City, the images have been clear and crisp.

I know, I know. Most folks probably have cable or some other form of digital TV. But, if you haven't yet, be sure to order your coupons for $40 off a converter box. Each U.S. household is eligible for two coupons. Go to www.dtv2009.gov for more information.

Random Thoughts On August 21, 2008

Falling asleep on the sofa watching coverage of Olympics competitions has been a nightly occurrence for the Gabster and me. It's been fun watching it. I was super impressed with Nastia the gymnast. Seems like a fine young lady.

Watching other stuff has been fun too. Although we have had occasional tv-watching fatigue. Last Saturday it happened after about 30 minutes of badminton. I thought, "Seriously?" Then it was on BMX and fencing. Again ... seriously?

I saw on Nightline that the Chinese government is spending big bucks on Olympic-training schools. They are implementing the same type programs that the East Germans years ago. The Chinese have kids practicing dives, gymnastic moves, weightlifting and shooting (among other things) starting around three. Wow.

Here's a pic of a small piece of artwork I purchased back in May. Bought it at the Brookside Art Fair. I've had the pic in "Draft" mode on the blog for several months. Andrew Johnson is the artist. More info on his work is at www.thestitchmaestro.com.

He personalized this one. He wrote ... "To Gabby. Andrew Johnson. It make her smile. The orange cats are her favorite, although she's gray with orange splotches.

Gas is about $3.57. And my Pour Boy station gives me 5-cents less when I use my debit card or pay cash.

The summer has been really enjoyable. Can't believe the first college football game is next week. Aug. 30 my Cowboys will be beating up on Washington State. The game is in Seattle. I'm going to wear orange every day next week in honor of the season opener. Have my shirts all lined up and ready to go. Go Cowboys!

Without Going Over

In our version of "Calvin Ball" I decided to follow the rules of "The Price Is Right". That means neither Gabby or I won the weight bet.

We stopped by the vet's office Saturday morning for the weigh in. Gabby, of course, was talking, greeting and visiting up a storm with everyone she saw. One little cat in a carrier awaiting an appointment stared at Gab with an expression of "Why do you have so much to say?"

With the collar and bandana the Gabster reached 7.6 pounds. Without, 7.4 pounds.

It was a little disappointing. She looks so healthy and full. We were so sure she'd be at least 8.5 pounds. And after seeing a 44-pound monster on the news earlier last week, she was very confident she would be able to brag about her heaviness. The good news is that in a year's time, she has doubled her weight.

In the long run she likely won the bet since now I'm going to be a little less tight with the moist food.

Back In Sicily

Picture it ... a guy walks into the customer service area of the Jones Store (now Macy's). Along with him are his wife and four children. The youngest around four and a boy. The oldest about 13. The gang sees two older ladies sitting in the area. One lady was probably over 80, while the other was 60ish. Likely waiting on a gift to be wrapped or just relaxing for a bit during a busy day of shopping.

After five minutes or so, the guy and his family finish their customer service business. During that time, the kids were well behaved and stayed entertained.

The elder of the two ladies suddenly comments, "You have a very nice family, young man." The guy smiles and replies with a hearty thank you.

As the guy and his family start to leave, the youngest stood still staring at the lady. His dad says, "C'mon son." The youngest then says "Hi Sophia."

The dad taps the son's shoulder and encourages him to move along. The siblings and mom chuckling just a bit. He asked later why Sophia didn't know who he was.

A buddy once told me this story about his family. They enjoyed watching "Golden Girls" together. Somehow, the youngest son was certain this lady was Sophia. The character played by Estelle Getty. Dorothy's (Bea Arthur) mom. Pretty funny.

Ms. Getty recently passed away. You likely saw it in the news. She had been suffering from an extended illness, but it's still sad to lose a beloved American icon like her. At 84, her life I'm sure had been richly blessed.

I don't recall ever watching the episodes when they originally aired, but back in the early to mid-90s episodes aired on a local station immediately after the news. It became a daily highlight to catch the show. I could bank on it making me laugh, sometimes making me think and ponder, and occasionally tear up.

To all those that make folks laugh, think, ponder and occasionally tear up, here's a dedication ... "I want to thank you ... and when we die and float away, I'll see you there, and once again thank you for being a friend. "