Chief Justice Earl Warren said he turned first to the sports pages of his morning paper to read of man’s accomplishments before checking out Page One to read of man’s failures. I understand his point, and his frustration, but the sports sections these days reveal a lot of failures, too, especially when it comes to steroids, spoiled baseball players and out-of-control executives.
It’s sad to see baseball sink so low. It was one of our staples in Grant County years ago. In summer months, the game was about all we had for entertainment. TV was still in its infancy, viewers relegated to one upstart station which didn’t sign on until 4 in the afternoon. It was too hot to sit in the un-air-conditioned houses so naturally we lived for baseball and the two nights each week when we put on new uniforms and showcased our talent at the city’s new Little League field.
I ran across some old newspaper clippings from the halcyon days of my baseball youth. The article talked about the opening of Little League season and how the town was anxious for the new park to shine under the AP&L lights. Pap kept the scorebook for all of the games and people came from all around to watch the Yanks and the Cubs and the Cards and the Phils swing away for the new wooden fence.
As I get older, I think about those wonderful nights under the lights, up where the sycamores offered soothing shade from the setting sun. A sprawling school complex sits there now, fancy cars parked where we used to slide into second base and whip the ball around the horn. No sign of the little wooden snack stand where Joe Wilson, a gangly high schooler, thrilled little kids by opening the Coke bottles with his shiny senior ring. No evidence of the old haunted house across the street, either, where kids swallowed hard before dashing into the spooky front yard to retrieve the errant foul tips. A rescued baseball could net a kid a free Coke or a giant Zero bar, and when the ball sailed over the backstop, the race was on to see who could rescue the prize. The most vivid memory from those wild scrambles remains the terrible car crash, the night little Jack was struck and almost killed. The kids had never seen so much blood on a human--doubtful that any of the adults had either—but Jack survived. He was a tough, witty, gritty kid who, not surprisingly, died a short time later on a Vietnam battlefield, protecting his fellow grunts from a grenade. He deserved a better fate and so did his revered family, but he made our town proud, the way he saw his military duty and done it in the distant killing fields.
The memories have lasted a long, long time and that’s why it’s sad for an old ballplayer to see the storied game, once labeled the national pastime, in such disarray. Don’t even care to turn on the fancy big screen to watch the Redbirds or the Braves. The old Braves skipper is still a favorite, himself an ex-Traveler and all, but it’s just not worth the time now to see these pumped-up robots do their thing. Good grief, they even vacated the house the Ruth built!
The news in March about George Kell dying dredged up some of my baseball memories. I used a Kell-Kaline bat back in my days, out at the Oliver Williams legion field. Frank I and Doobie were my managers and they did a lot of good things for us. Mr. Oliver drove us thousands of miles, too, in his roomy station wagon and we rewarded some of their efforts by winning championships, even claiming a prized spot in the state finals. We had a very good team, the pro scouts drooling over some of the talent, and we captured a lot of trophies, some of which still claim a prominent spot on the crowded bookshelves. I’ve held on to a couple of my old gloves, but I wonder if I could catch a ball now or go deep in the hole at short to throw out a speedy runner. The knee replacement surgery probably put an end to any comeback dreams. Better be content to just dream and sit in the big leather recliner, in front of the giant Sony. A few folks around town still ask about my pitching days, even kind Alderman Cummings openly bragging to people at a courthouse gathering that I still hold the state strikeout record.
One of my favorite legion ball memories was a night on the mound when young Mike Tygart made his debut on our team. He had moved to Sheridan in the summer of 1964 with his family, fresh out of Babe Ruth battles in Pine Bluff where he was heralded as a promising up-and-comer. Manager Frank put him in at catcher and after a few warm-up tosses, he hustled out to the mound to talk. He raised the mask and asked politely if we could go over the signs, the customary finger waving catchers do to pitchers in order to co-ordinate the types of pitches to be thrown. “How about 1 for fastball and 2 for curve,” the kid said confidently as he turned to walk away. “Fine,” I answered, continuing. “And 3 for slider, 4 for screwball and closed fist is what I prefer for my change-up.” He turned back and smiled at me through the big mask and quipped: “Hey, I think I’m gonna like playing ball with y’all.”
Turns out the cocky kid became the best all-round athlete of the whole bunch, going on to excel in every local sport long after we had left town for college ball. We didn’t know it, that night of his legion ball debut, but we were about to leave the Sheridan baseball program in very capable hands with him as the next steady leader.
The memories fade in and out when I try to remember the games and the players, but I do enjoy thinking about it. Back when it was the love of my young life. Back when Murry and Mr. Holmes and Newt and Roy Winston inspired us to stretch our abilities and imaginations. Back when a game of work-up helped pass the time on a Saturday afternoon after we had sat for a while with Pap to watch the Game of the Week on the old black-and-white. Back when a nickel and a penny would buy a Coke and a handful of salty redskin peanuts during our mid-day break and back when Dickie entertained all of the swooning girls by revving up his newest Corvette. Back when kids wore flattops and Joyce and Joe served hamburgers for a quarter. Back when church bells rang on Sunday morning and overflow crowds gathered at the courthouse for election results. And back when Sunday afternoon at the old Sheridan A’s field was the greatest treat in the world for a wide-eyed kid growing up out on the Redfield Road. Bookie and W. A. and Jerry and Paul were bigger than life to me back then, the way they could throw a baseball and jack with each other. And when they slugged one over Highway 167 in left, over by the service station, well the crowd roared their enthusiasm and I logged it all away in my little noggin, knowing even then that what I was seeing could be gone one day, but knowing full well, too, that what I was seeing could be comforting lifelong memories.
We drove up to see the nephew play ball last summer. It was enjoyable and after the game I asked if his team had ended up on the winning side. “Oh, we don’t keep score,” one of the parents quickly opined. I asked why and was told that none of the parents wanted the kids to ever think they were “losers.” I didn’t say anything in response, but I was thinking on the trip home that some of my best lessons probably came from ballgames we lost, maybe even when I struck out on a Wally Britt round-house curve. And, I was also thinking that sometimes we over-protect our kids. My old managers were tough and they didn’t mind chewing us out when we lost a game or threw wild to first base and I think my old bunch turned out pretty good.
I know my grandkids will learn a lot of valuable lessons along the way and that I won’t always be around to help out, but I hope their leaders, whether on the ballfield or in the classroom, don’t sugar coat things too much for them. I hope they learn that you can learn a lot in life and a lot about life by doing your very best, by giving your all. And if you come up a little short on the scoreboard, well, that’ll be alright, too. The old Indian chief told Outlaw Josey that the only sage advice he got from the government was that he should endeavor to persevere. I think that’s good advice. I have my baseball memories and no one can ruin any of that. Maybe those who follow me will find a favorite sport, too, like I did long ago. And I hope the next bunch will endeavor to persevere. Our country will need that.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Thursday, March 19, 2009
It's (Irish) Spring
Triple L stayed a few days with me and Peanut. I cooked big meals every night and we tried to be Five Star hosts. Even put a chocolate mint on her pillow the first night after turning back the sheets, just to make her feel more at home. She said today the most lasting memory of the whole stay--well, that we had Irish Spring soap for her scrubbin'-up. Seems her granny liked Irish Spring, too, and seeing the minty-fresh soap at our house and using it for her shower--well, it brought back a lot of happy, pleasant memories for Triple L and that is a nice thing. She even told Peanut that she went out and brought some for her own home up in the hills so I'm glad she got reacquainted with Irish Spring. I started using IS soap several years ago after trying unsuccessfully to find Lifebuoy. Found out it's pretty close to what I was searching for and I really do like it now. I'm like Triple L--I don't like showering unless I have my Irish Spring with me. I pack it in my suitcase when I travel soast I can feel at home when I'm away. I also like to carry along some Tums and a photo of Peanut.
Speaking of home and being away...I got back today after a few fishing days at the cabin down south, down in the big swamp. Pretty wild country, the big refuge, stuck between the White and Mis-si-sip. Me and buddy John had another fine trip, fishing and looking at wildlife. I didn't catch any 8 and a half pounders this time, like I did a couple weeks back, but we hauled in plenty and we saw some pretty gobblers in the big woods. Got our fever up about turkey hunting, which is just around the corner.
I won't be discussing my new commissioner duties on this here blog, but a funny thing did happen at my meeting last week. An inmate showed up to testify and when asked to state the reason for his appearance, he told us, "I'm here on behalf of my shoes." It was all I could do to keep a straight face, but I managed somehow. Seems the fella was down on his luck and wanted money because two other inmates had stolen his sneakers in prison. I guess technically he was right when he said he was at the hearing "on behalf of my shoes" because the shoes, which were presented as evidence, were unable to say a word.
I'm looking out my south bedroom window as I write and I see the big redbud tree north of the old family home is in full bloom. Pap would like knowing this, seein as how he pulled up that tree years ago down in the Saline River bottoms and brought it home for a new home. It's big and tall now, bout 30 feet tall, and it is an early harbinger of spring, which I think officially arrives tomorrow.
I'll close on a sad note--my old buddy Kern, who was a running mate of mine at the Capitol for years, passed away two days ago. He was a great guy. Kern had polio when he was young and he had a bad arm, but the handicap didn't prevent him from living a full life. He loved to hunt and fish and he "served" our state as a legislative lawyer for 46 years. He was the top dawg at the legal arm of the legislature at the time I retired a spell back and he was always so much fun to be around, to sip Joe with, to talk over the fall rut, to catch big bass at Hampton's. Man, he did a lot for Arkansas and he had a ton of friends who sure will miss him, but thank the Good Lord for him and the days we got to be with him and watch him joke and smile. Friends are such treasures. I have a ton of 'em and I'm a lucky feller.
Oh yes, the daugther is fine up in Fayettenam and her twin daughters arrive early July. As John Wayne said in the big movie, "That'll be the day."
That's all for this time, til next time, thanks for your time.
Speaking of home and being away...I got back today after a few fishing days at the cabin down south, down in the big swamp. Pretty wild country, the big refuge, stuck between the White and Mis-si-sip. Me and buddy John had another fine trip, fishing and looking at wildlife. I didn't catch any 8 and a half pounders this time, like I did a couple weeks back, but we hauled in plenty and we saw some pretty gobblers in the big woods. Got our fever up about turkey hunting, which is just around the corner.
I won't be discussing my new commissioner duties on this here blog, but a funny thing did happen at my meeting last week. An inmate showed up to testify and when asked to state the reason for his appearance, he told us, "I'm here on behalf of my shoes." It was all I could do to keep a straight face, but I managed somehow. Seems the fella was down on his luck and wanted money because two other inmates had stolen his sneakers in prison. I guess technically he was right when he said he was at the hearing "on behalf of my shoes" because the shoes, which were presented as evidence, were unable to say a word.
I'm looking out my south bedroom window as I write and I see the big redbud tree north of the old family home is in full bloom. Pap would like knowing this, seein as how he pulled up that tree years ago down in the Saline River bottoms and brought it home for a new home. It's big and tall now, bout 30 feet tall, and it is an early harbinger of spring, which I think officially arrives tomorrow.
I'll close on a sad note--my old buddy Kern, who was a running mate of mine at the Capitol for years, passed away two days ago. He was a great guy. Kern had polio when he was young and he had a bad arm, but the handicap didn't prevent him from living a full life. He loved to hunt and fish and he "served" our state as a legislative lawyer for 46 years. He was the top dawg at the legal arm of the legislature at the time I retired a spell back and he was always so much fun to be around, to sip Joe with, to talk over the fall rut, to catch big bass at Hampton's. Man, he did a lot for Arkansas and he had a ton of friends who sure will miss him, but thank the Good Lord for him and the days we got to be with him and watch him joke and smile. Friends are such treasures. I have a ton of 'em and I'm a lucky feller.
Oh yes, the daugther is fine up in Fayettenam and her twin daughters arrive early July. As John Wayne said in the big movie, "That'll be the day."
That's all for this time, til next time, thanks for your time.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Hog memories
We watched the Hog cagers Sunday afternoon and they whuped up on the Ga. Bulldogs. The Bulldogs must be pretty bad for us to win as easily as we did, but we did look a whole lot better than in previous outings.
We watched because it was the "reunion" game, a time set aside to honor the 1994 champs. Nolan was there, his white head shining, and Big Nasty and Scotty and Big Dog and so many of the young men we loved so much.
It brought back a lot of personal memories. I was one of the fortunate Arkies to be in Charlotte NC that afternoon long ago in 94. I was seated only a few feet from Scotty when he took the pass from big Dwight and lofted the shot with 51 seconds left in the game. Yep, right there, watching it all. The shot, like being in a car wreck--it seemed to float in the air forever, but it did go in and I started hugging my three buddies there with me, knowing we had them Devils right where we wanted them.
It's a sweet memory for me, to know I was there when our university accomplished something it will probably never see again...at least while I'm still around. I followed the Hogs a many a mile, from Dallas to Atlanta to Birmingham to Rupp...and it was a very fun time in my life. I talked with Corliss the other night, at our Hall of Fame reception, and thanked him for giving us those good times. He's such a fine young man and I think, one day, may be the Hogs head coach. I can't think of a better one, or one more deserving.
But I was there, in beautiful Charlotte, in their new arena, with President Bill and Grant Hill's daddy and Digger and loads of celebs...watching that super talented team. I ran into Digger at halftime, the night before when we were beating Arizona, and he assured me the Hogs would win it all. His confidence helped me, too. He knew I was a Hog fan--the red rubber Hog nose on my face probably gave me away.
Yep, I wore the Hog nose back then...all over the south, and I cheered em til I had no voice left. I remember one painful night in Atlanta, just out of the hospital from my first knee surgery, when, after the game, we couldn't get a cab back to the hotel. .It was a very long three-mile walk, but I made it. I was so sore the next day, I could hardly get out of bed, but I had to be back courtside at 2 and I sure didn't wanna miss it. And I didn't...not ever...not even when my traveling buddies were reluctant to make the long trips, but I loved watching 'em...they were something in their prime...Lenzy Howell, Corliss, IBM. I watched 'em embarrass North Carolina to win the regionals at Dallas and I traveled from there to Denver for the 1990 Final Four. But nothing compared to Charlotte--I got to see the national champions and we celebrated with their great coach and the players and all the fans all night long, back at the hotel where we all stayed. Who could sleep? Who would ever forget it all. Man, I was lucky to see all of that. I'm a pretty lucky guy in a lot of other ways too and I thank the good lord ev-ah day.
The win over Georgia today got me to thinking...I wonder if we could get on one of those hot runs, like we did in Atlanta when Joe Johnson and Brandon Dean and the boys surprised everyone and won it all. Maybe...who knows? Oh well...
That's all for this time, til next time, thanks for your time.
We watched because it was the "reunion" game, a time set aside to honor the 1994 champs. Nolan was there, his white head shining, and Big Nasty and Scotty and Big Dog and so many of the young men we loved so much.
It brought back a lot of personal memories. I was one of the fortunate Arkies to be in Charlotte NC that afternoon long ago in 94. I was seated only a few feet from Scotty when he took the pass from big Dwight and lofted the shot with 51 seconds left in the game. Yep, right there, watching it all. The shot, like being in a car wreck--it seemed to float in the air forever, but it did go in and I started hugging my three buddies there with me, knowing we had them Devils right where we wanted them.
It's a sweet memory for me, to know I was there when our university accomplished something it will probably never see again...at least while I'm still around. I followed the Hogs a many a mile, from Dallas to Atlanta to Birmingham to Rupp...and it was a very fun time in my life. I talked with Corliss the other night, at our Hall of Fame reception, and thanked him for giving us those good times. He's such a fine young man and I think, one day, may be the Hogs head coach. I can't think of a better one, or one more deserving.
But I was there, in beautiful Charlotte, in their new arena, with President Bill and Grant Hill's daddy and Digger and loads of celebs...watching that super talented team. I ran into Digger at halftime, the night before when we were beating Arizona, and he assured me the Hogs would win it all. His confidence helped me, too. He knew I was a Hog fan--the red rubber Hog nose on my face probably gave me away.
Yep, I wore the Hog nose back then...all over the south, and I cheered em til I had no voice left. I remember one painful night in Atlanta, just out of the hospital from my first knee surgery, when, after the game, we couldn't get a cab back to the hotel. .It was a very long three-mile walk, but I made it. I was so sore the next day, I could hardly get out of bed, but I had to be back courtside at 2 and I sure didn't wanna miss it. And I didn't...not ever...not even when my traveling buddies were reluctant to make the long trips, but I loved watching 'em...they were something in their prime...Lenzy Howell, Corliss, IBM. I watched 'em embarrass North Carolina to win the regionals at Dallas and I traveled from there to Denver for the 1990 Final Four. But nothing compared to Charlotte--I got to see the national champions and we celebrated with their great coach and the players and all the fans all night long, back at the hotel where we all stayed. Who could sleep? Who would ever forget it all. Man, I was lucky to see all of that. I'm a pretty lucky guy in a lot of other ways too and I thank the good lord ev-ah day.
The win over Georgia today got me to thinking...I wonder if we could get on one of those hot runs, like we did in Atlanta when Joe Johnson and Brandon Dean and the boys surprised everyone and won it all. Maybe...who knows? Oh well...
That's all for this time, til next time, thanks for your time.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Twin girls--who would have thunkit?
Spring--an early one--is fast approaching and I'm even energized to the point of updating my blog. The big...big...big news is that my daughter is going to have twin girls in June. Two girly granddaughters! Man oh man.
Peanut and I are so excited over the news. Daughter isn't saying what names they've picked out, so Peanut has decided to call 'em Lavern and Shirley. Pretty funny, huh.
I'm so blessed, family and all. Now this. I think a lot about life and its mysteries, the blessings, the pitfalls, the big ole rollercoaster we hop aboard when adulthood arrives. But it, life I mean, sure offers up some beautiful blessings along the way and now, twin girls. Luke, the grandson who arrived seven-plus years ago, was hoping one of them would be a boy, but I bet he'll be happy with the results once he sees 'em.
It will be a busy summer to say the least.
In other reflections...I've sure had sis Joy on my mind a lot lately. It may be the yellow daffodils popping out of the ground. She loved yellow--my favorite color, too. We talked about yellow being our favorite color. One time, at the bank, up in her big office high above the city, we talked about yellow and she had clipped an article out of an airplane magazine about why people like certain colors. She said yellow meant that we were upbeat and positive people and I liked that. She sure was, about the most upbeat and positive person I ever knew. And, I think I'm a lot like her really and that's a good thing, a very good thing.
I lucked out on bro's and sisters. Momma and pap sure did good, with all seven of us I suppose. I still talk to Brother when I mow the hill on his tractor. I talk to him just like he was ridin' with me, which, I get the feeling sometimes, that he is--there with me, I mean. He loved to mow on his tractor and I picture him up there, sometimes about dusky dark when I'm out on the deck, cooking a ribeye. I look up there, by the old well, and I see him, real plain sometimes, gliding past the chinaberry tree and the big walnut tree, spinning around in circles on the yellow tractor. Maybe he bought a yellow tractor because he was like me and sis, upbeat and positive. He was like that, too, always grinning and chuckling. Nephew Chris does a great impression of him, laughing and saying he's gotta get on up the hill. Brother sure would be proud of Chris, the way he's cleaned up the hill by the creek, up where Brother used to battle the briars and all.
Peanut and I are so excited over the news. Daughter isn't saying what names they've picked out, so Peanut has decided to call 'em Lavern and Shirley. Pretty funny, huh.
I'm so blessed, family and all. Now this. I think a lot about life and its mysteries, the blessings, the pitfalls, the big ole rollercoaster we hop aboard when adulthood arrives. But it, life I mean, sure offers up some beautiful blessings along the way and now, twin girls. Luke, the grandson who arrived seven-plus years ago, was hoping one of them would be a boy, but I bet he'll be happy with the results once he sees 'em.
It will be a busy summer to say the least.
In other reflections...I've sure had sis Joy on my mind a lot lately. It may be the yellow daffodils popping out of the ground. She loved yellow--my favorite color, too. We talked about yellow being our favorite color. One time, at the bank, up in her big office high above the city, we talked about yellow and she had clipped an article out of an airplane magazine about why people like certain colors. She said yellow meant that we were upbeat and positive people and I liked that. She sure was, about the most upbeat and positive person I ever knew. And, I think I'm a lot like her really and that's a good thing, a very good thing.
I lucked out on bro's and sisters. Momma and pap sure did good, with all seven of us I suppose. I still talk to Brother when I mow the hill on his tractor. I talk to him just like he was ridin' with me, which, I get the feeling sometimes, that he is--there with me, I mean. He loved to mow on his tractor and I picture him up there, sometimes about dusky dark when I'm out on the deck, cooking a ribeye. I look up there, by the old well, and I see him, real plain sometimes, gliding past the chinaberry tree and the big walnut tree, spinning around in circles on the yellow tractor. Maybe he bought a yellow tractor because he was like me and sis, upbeat and positive. He was like that, too, always grinning and chuckling. Nephew Chris does a great impression of him, laughing and saying he's gotta get on up the hill. Brother sure would be proud of Chris, the way he's cleaned up the hill by the creek, up where Brother used to battle the briars and all.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Heeeeeeeeeeeesssss bacl
Well, after a short time off...well, maybe not that short, I'm back in the blogging saddle. I've been catching some flack about taking off, even Needer Mae jumped me Christmas morning about being lazy. So, I'm blogging again and I hope I can come up with a few thoughts. Pretty bad when Needer Mae is upset with me.
Just watched the basketball Hogs beat Oklahoma. Boy, sure brought back Nolan memories. If they keep playing like this, they will be hard to hold in the SEC and beyond. I'm not being a homer...they are that solid and they have the coaching staff to go with their talent. Can shoot the three, rebound, handle the press...all the inegredients of a great team. They could....could...go a long way.
I've been reading some stuff on Nolan and by golly I was in Charlotte NC the year we won it all...I was there, in 94, a few feet from Scotty when he lofted the three that put Duke away. It was quite a night...Clinton was there and I stayed up all night, celebrating back at the hotel with the team, Nolan, all the fans. It was really something, to see a national championship win in person...something I will never forget. Man, I love good college basketball.
Great Christmas. Kids were home and Les' big news has brightened everyone's outlook. A doubledose of good news...it will be quite a time come June. She and Patrick will never sleep late again, that's for sure.
I got lots of nice gifts from Santa. I still am not good at opoening gifts...it is embarrasiing or something. Much rather give gifts and watch others opoen them. Little Luke, the grandboy, was great at Christmas. If you haven't heard the hilarious story about him "learning" about Santa, get in touch with Eric and Amy and let them tell you. It's the best kid-Santa story ever, believe me. What a kid.
Had a good deer hunting season. Saw lots of deer, turkeys, coyotes, squirrels, rabbits, raccoons...you name it. And I made it thru without injury again...I know everyone always wants to know that. I went hunting some with my new crossbow and liked it, too, even bagged one.
Good to see Sandi and her gang Thanksgiving...good to have Kyle back home. I think I embarrassed him when I hugged him, but I needed the hug. We were so worried about him and we are so very proud of him, too.
I've worked some at the church, painting and fixing up one of the SS rooms. It was quite a mess, sheetrock falling in etc...but I got it done and paited pretty and our new windows...five of them...are in and stunningly beautiful. One in honor of brother Harold and one for Joy...they're side by side...isn't that the way it should be. So pretty and we're thankful for Janice and Roy who gave the funds to make them possible. In all, we did five for the church and every widow in done and we'll have a big ceremony later on to celebrate. Everyone please come when we do. I painted one of the rooms that had several coats of paint on the walls...no doubt put there by Pap a time or too. I could feel him there with me and I was using his old paint brush.
A bit of adventure Christmas week at Dardanelle. Peanut and I were leaving her mom and dad's house and headed for her cousin's when my new pickup had a flat tire. It was getting dark, 15 degrees, windy...what a night to have a flat. Turns out I had run over a big carpet installer's razor knife in the road, cut my tire up, and I ended up having to buy a new one. But, boy, was I glad Wal Mart supercenter in Russellville was open. Cousin Buzzy crawled under the truck and did most of the jack work and we took the tire into town and got a new one put on the rim. I was out $145 for that trip, but glad I didn't have blowout on the Interstate.
I may have some news in a few weeks...maybe next blog,...about a new political "assignment." Pretty sure I'm gonna do it...not a real big deal, but I may be "pressed" back into government service on a limited basis. And limited it will be because I enjoy this retirement thing...I got my first Soc. Security payment in November...man, checks from the state and fed...life is good in Sheridowns.
Well, better run. Gotta go check on the dogs. That's all for this time, til next time, thanks for your time.
Just watched the basketball Hogs beat Oklahoma. Boy, sure brought back Nolan memories. If they keep playing like this, they will be hard to hold in the SEC and beyond. I'm not being a homer...they are that solid and they have the coaching staff to go with their talent. Can shoot the three, rebound, handle the press...all the inegredients of a great team. They could....could...go a long way.
I've been reading some stuff on Nolan and by golly I was in Charlotte NC the year we won it all...I was there, in 94, a few feet from Scotty when he lofted the three that put Duke away. It was quite a night...Clinton was there and I stayed up all night, celebrating back at the hotel with the team, Nolan, all the fans. It was really something, to see a national championship win in person...something I will never forget. Man, I love good college basketball.
Great Christmas. Kids were home and Les' big news has brightened everyone's outlook. A doubledose of good news...it will be quite a time come June. She and Patrick will never sleep late again, that's for sure.
I got lots of nice gifts from Santa. I still am not good at opoening gifts...it is embarrasiing or something. Much rather give gifts and watch others opoen them. Little Luke, the grandboy, was great at Christmas. If you haven't heard the hilarious story about him "learning" about Santa, get in touch with Eric and Amy and let them tell you. It's the best kid-Santa story ever, believe me. What a kid.
Had a good deer hunting season. Saw lots of deer, turkeys, coyotes, squirrels, rabbits, raccoons...you name it. And I made it thru without injury again...I know everyone always wants to know that. I went hunting some with my new crossbow and liked it, too, even bagged one.
Good to see Sandi and her gang Thanksgiving...good to have Kyle back home. I think I embarrassed him when I hugged him, but I needed the hug. We were so worried about him and we are so very proud of him, too.
I've worked some at the church, painting and fixing up one of the SS rooms. It was quite a mess, sheetrock falling in etc...but I got it done and paited pretty and our new windows...five of them...are in and stunningly beautiful. One in honor of brother Harold and one for Joy...they're side by side...isn't that the way it should be. So pretty and we're thankful for Janice and Roy who gave the funds to make them possible. In all, we did five for the church and every widow in done and we'll have a big ceremony later on to celebrate. Everyone please come when we do. I painted one of the rooms that had several coats of paint on the walls...no doubt put there by Pap a time or too. I could feel him there with me and I was using his old paint brush.
A bit of adventure Christmas week at Dardanelle. Peanut and I were leaving her mom and dad's house and headed for her cousin's when my new pickup had a flat tire. It was getting dark, 15 degrees, windy...what a night to have a flat. Turns out I had run over a big carpet installer's razor knife in the road, cut my tire up, and I ended up having to buy a new one. But, boy, was I glad Wal Mart supercenter in Russellville was open. Cousin Buzzy crawled under the truck and did most of the jack work and we took the tire into town and got a new one put on the rim. I was out $145 for that trip, but glad I didn't have blowout on the Interstate.
I may have some news in a few weeks...maybe next blog,...about a new political "assignment." Pretty sure I'm gonna do it...not a real big deal, but I may be "pressed" back into government service on a limited basis. And limited it will be because I enjoy this retirement thing...I got my first Soc. Security payment in November...man, checks from the state and fed...life is good in Sheridowns.
Well, better run. Gotta go check on the dogs. That's all for this time, til next time, thanks for your time.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Hogs et al
Watched the Hogs blow a 13-point lead against Kentucky in last 4 and a half minutes last night. Boy, if Houston Dale had called plays like that they would have strung him up at that big church up in Springdale. Oh well, I've written them off for this season. Be glad when the Roundballers take the court. I have hope with them.
Been on the road some. Big golf trip to Mississippi with 23 other guys. Spent our time in Choctaw Indian casino and the beautiful PGA Dancing Rabbit golf course. The two courses are first-class and I even hit some slots at the casino. First vacation I ever took when I had more money when I got home than when I left. And I opened my golf outing with an eagle 3 on a par 5. Wow!
Since my last blog, I've also gone bow hunting with my new crossbow. And, guess what? Beginner's luck, I guess you'd say, but I bagged one first trip out. Shot it at 50 steps and the arrow took a toll. It was weird, not hearing a loud shot and all. But I like it and I'm going again.
My sis Nita took a bit of a fall...really a "twist" in her living room as she tumbled into her musical organ and broke a bone in her foot and a toe. She's laid up for a spell and we're trying to comfort her as much as she will let us. She's tough, though, and hard to take care of. I called the other night and told her I had her a piece of lemon pie. She said no, not that she didn't want it, but sister Bet had gotten the jump on it and baked her a whole lemon pie. Oh well.
Visiting the Indian territory in Mississippi made me think more of my land here, on Lancaster Hill. I looked at it at sunset tonight, out on my deck, and wondered what it must have looked like here, with the Quapaws villaged here, their teepees and such on the hillside by the creek, all of them busy with their horses, probably walking in the woods, looking for deer and such. It must have been beautiful back then, and peaceful. I feel all of that at times when I look at the land and let my thoughts roam. I think we're all connected to the past in ways we don't always understand. Maybe never understand, really.
Christmas is coming soon and because some have asked...really, some have...I'll write here how to order my book, Benchwarmer, in case you're interested in ordering some for Christmas gifts. Go the to Phoenixbase.com web site and the information should be there. If not, contact me.
(Great) Nephew Chris and new bride Lauren have moved in nextdoor, in Joy's house, and we're glad they are our neighbors. It's good to see their lights on over there at night. Joy would have liked that, knowing (little) Chris is taking over. I sure do miss her, really bad at times, sometimes, not so bad. I miss her smile. I was down at the old house recently, doing some picking up, and I ran across a great big blackandwhite photo of her. I placed it in the front bedroom and she looks so happy. I lucked out on sisters...and brothers...not to mention maw and paw.
I'll be in the deer woods in earnest soon as the so called regular gun season comes in in November. I love to smell the woods in the autumn--hard to explain to some I suppose. But it's nice to be out there amongst the creatures, to see the sun come up and then watch it go down. The moon was full the other night as I drove home from the camp, and the big river bottom was all lit up, like a giant spotlight in the heavens. You could see forever. The moon is so crisp and full and bright in the colder months, the air cold and pure and illuminated. A morning or two later, the first bunch of wintering geese flew over the big timber, a sure sign that winter is approaching. God, I love the cool air. My lungs are refreshing again.
I spent a day in Little Rock with the governor and our little buddy group. It was a special gathering, a day to honor our friend Bill Gwatney. We played golf, our first outing in his honor, and we competed for the first Chairman's Cup, a nice trophy in Bill's honor, a tropy complete with his picture. The familiar pose, the one with his patented big smile. What a tragedy, to lose him so tragically, at such a young age. His young wife, Rebecca, dined with us after the golf event and she looked and sounded better. What an awful time for her, but she is a survivor.
Gotta go. That's all for this time, til next time, thanks for your time.
Been on the road some. Big golf trip to Mississippi with 23 other guys. Spent our time in Choctaw Indian casino and the beautiful PGA Dancing Rabbit golf course. The two courses are first-class and I even hit some slots at the casino. First vacation I ever took when I had more money when I got home than when I left. And I opened my golf outing with an eagle 3 on a par 5. Wow!
Since my last blog, I've also gone bow hunting with my new crossbow. And, guess what? Beginner's luck, I guess you'd say, but I bagged one first trip out. Shot it at 50 steps and the arrow took a toll. It was weird, not hearing a loud shot and all. But I like it and I'm going again.
My sis Nita took a bit of a fall...really a "twist" in her living room as she tumbled into her musical organ and broke a bone in her foot and a toe. She's laid up for a spell and we're trying to comfort her as much as she will let us. She's tough, though, and hard to take care of. I called the other night and told her I had her a piece of lemon pie. She said no, not that she didn't want it, but sister Bet had gotten the jump on it and baked her a whole lemon pie. Oh well.
Visiting the Indian territory in Mississippi made me think more of my land here, on Lancaster Hill. I looked at it at sunset tonight, out on my deck, and wondered what it must have looked like here, with the Quapaws villaged here, their teepees and such on the hillside by the creek, all of them busy with their horses, probably walking in the woods, looking for deer and such. It must have been beautiful back then, and peaceful. I feel all of that at times when I look at the land and let my thoughts roam. I think we're all connected to the past in ways we don't always understand. Maybe never understand, really.
Christmas is coming soon and because some have asked...really, some have...I'll write here how to order my book, Benchwarmer, in case you're interested in ordering some for Christmas gifts. Go the to Phoenixbase.com web site and the information should be there. If not, contact me.
(Great) Nephew Chris and new bride Lauren have moved in nextdoor, in Joy's house, and we're glad they are our neighbors. It's good to see their lights on over there at night. Joy would have liked that, knowing (little) Chris is taking over. I sure do miss her, really bad at times, sometimes, not so bad. I miss her smile. I was down at the old house recently, doing some picking up, and I ran across a great big blackandwhite photo of her. I placed it in the front bedroom and she looks so happy. I lucked out on sisters...and brothers...not to mention maw and paw.
I'll be in the deer woods in earnest soon as the so called regular gun season comes in in November. I love to smell the woods in the autumn--hard to explain to some I suppose. But it's nice to be out there amongst the creatures, to see the sun come up and then watch it go down. The moon was full the other night as I drove home from the camp, and the big river bottom was all lit up, like a giant spotlight in the heavens. You could see forever. The moon is so crisp and full and bright in the colder months, the air cold and pure and illuminated. A morning or two later, the first bunch of wintering geese flew over the big timber, a sure sign that winter is approaching. God, I love the cool air. My lungs are refreshing again.
I spent a day in Little Rock with the governor and our little buddy group. It was a special gathering, a day to honor our friend Bill Gwatney. We played golf, our first outing in his honor, and we competed for the first Chairman's Cup, a nice trophy in Bill's honor, a tropy complete with his picture. The familiar pose, the one with his patented big smile. What a tragedy, to lose him so tragically, at such a young age. His young wife, Rebecca, dined with us after the golf event and she looked and sounded better. What an awful time for her, but she is a survivor.
Gotta go. That's all for this time, til next time, thanks for your time.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
autumn approacheth
In one of my old Scoops columns, I wrote about how and why I like to call fall, uh, autumn. I like the sound of the word "autumn." And I love it when the weather cools.
Those who know me know that hot weather is not my friend. I like the cold...and the cool...but if it were up to me, we could skip July and August. That would be just fine and dandy as far as I'm concerned.
Looks like we're headed for another round of rainy weather from Hurricane Ike. The recent hurricane sent lots of rain to our house and the Saline River was higher than I've ever seen it...even made the opening of squirrel hunting season Sept. 5 a washout. The river went over the pavement on 46 south and nearly went over the Highway 167 between Sheridan and Fordyce. It was fierce, too, the water resembling the rushing whitewater streams of Colorado. Really something to see.
I haven't "blogged" in a while and I apologize to my thousands of readers. Just got out of the habit, lost my groove I spect. We vacationed in Florida and had a really great time. We love the beach and our condo is so peaceful, right on the sugar-white beach. It's so nice to sit out on the balcony in late afternoon and watch the sunset, just me and Peanut, all alone, nary a worry in the whole world.
Played in recent Red Apple golf tourney and held lead going into Sunday's final round, but blew it. Just couldn't get to the greens in the horribly wet conditions. Half round on Saturday canceled due to heavy rains and it was the first time in Red Apple tourney history the rain forced play to be cart path only. Golfers understand this lingo--just means it was sloppy wet. But had fun with some of my old buds from political days.
Our puppies are doing good. Ole Newt, the big dumb black lab, is still growin and he's providing lots of laughs. He's learned to jump, finally, and twice jumped up on the bed. Zoey, the smart dog, just watches him in amazement.
We had Nita, my sister, over for supper on her 79th birthday. I cooked some of the fine fish I caught a few months ago. She loves fish. She's doing good. And we have a new neighbor--my great nephew Chris and his new bride Lauren, bought sister Joy's house next door. Whew! We were worried about who our neighbors might be, but the Good Lord sent us a blessing and we're mighty happy. I mowed Chris' grass today, being the good neighbor that I am. It was cool and cloudy and I just felt like mowing and doing a good deed. I have tons of mowing to do, all the way from the old house up to the pond, but it is good therapy. Speaking of therapy, I started some physical theapy today for a bad heel...got about six weeks to do. I have a brand new, good, million dollar titanium knee and now my heel goes bad. Oh, well.
We watched a lot of the political conventions. Obama will win, that's my take on it. McCain's VP pick is causing a stir, but history teaches us the voters never consider this race on VP candidates--just the big guys. Obama by 2 percentage points.
I'm not going to mention the Bill Gwatney tragedy if that's okay. It's just taken too much out of us to talk anymore about. We love him and miss him and I will leave it at that.
That's all for this time, til next time, thanks for your time.
Those who know me know that hot weather is not my friend. I like the cold...and the cool...but if it were up to me, we could skip July and August. That would be just fine and dandy as far as I'm concerned.
Looks like we're headed for another round of rainy weather from Hurricane Ike. The recent hurricane sent lots of rain to our house and the Saline River was higher than I've ever seen it...even made the opening of squirrel hunting season Sept. 5 a washout. The river went over the pavement on 46 south and nearly went over the Highway 167 between Sheridan and Fordyce. It was fierce, too, the water resembling the rushing whitewater streams of Colorado. Really something to see.
I haven't "blogged" in a while and I apologize to my thousands of readers. Just got out of the habit, lost my groove I spect. We vacationed in Florida and had a really great time. We love the beach and our condo is so peaceful, right on the sugar-white beach. It's so nice to sit out on the balcony in late afternoon and watch the sunset, just me and Peanut, all alone, nary a worry in the whole world.
Played in recent Red Apple golf tourney and held lead going into Sunday's final round, but blew it. Just couldn't get to the greens in the horribly wet conditions. Half round on Saturday canceled due to heavy rains and it was the first time in Red Apple tourney history the rain forced play to be cart path only. Golfers understand this lingo--just means it was sloppy wet. But had fun with some of my old buds from political days.
Our puppies are doing good. Ole Newt, the big dumb black lab, is still growin and he's providing lots of laughs. He's learned to jump, finally, and twice jumped up on the bed. Zoey, the smart dog, just watches him in amazement.
We had Nita, my sister, over for supper on her 79th birthday. I cooked some of the fine fish I caught a few months ago. She loves fish. She's doing good. And we have a new neighbor--my great nephew Chris and his new bride Lauren, bought sister Joy's house next door. Whew! We were worried about who our neighbors might be, but the Good Lord sent us a blessing and we're mighty happy. I mowed Chris' grass today, being the good neighbor that I am. It was cool and cloudy and I just felt like mowing and doing a good deed. I have tons of mowing to do, all the way from the old house up to the pond, but it is good therapy. Speaking of therapy, I started some physical theapy today for a bad heel...got about six weeks to do. I have a brand new, good, million dollar titanium knee and now my heel goes bad. Oh, well.
We watched a lot of the political conventions. Obama will win, that's my take on it. McCain's VP pick is causing a stir, but history teaches us the voters never consider this race on VP candidates--just the big guys. Obama by 2 percentage points.
I'm not going to mention the Bill Gwatney tragedy if that's okay. It's just taken too much out of us to talk anymore about. We love him and miss him and I will leave it at that.
That's all for this time, til next time, thanks for your time.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)