Odds and Ends

I'm headed to California on Friday and will be back sometime on the following Monday. It's a short trip and I'll explain more about it in a bit, but first a couple of friends have given me an award, and before they think I've completely forgotten about them I thought I'd better include them here.




Roger from Idaho Daily Photo made this one.






This guy always amazes me with his creative skills for all things computer. His sense of humor and fun with photography make visiting him worth the click every time.



Thanks Roger!







Mary from Work of the Poet passed this one on. She asked that Chuck of Foster Me Up get the credit for making the award.







The very first time Mary visited my blog wasn't the greatest of start for two people, or maybe it was. I posted something that didn't sit well with her and she politely let me know it. This I thought was great! Now if that sounds odd to you, let me clarify. Rather than just get offended and not leave a comment, she took the time to express her difference with me. She didn't do it in a vile or hateful way, she did it honestly. Ahhhhha, that's refreshing. (try to get that in the "real" world)



We commented back and forth with one another and with an apology from me and a "clean slate start" from her we have managed to stay in touch with each others blogs.



I really wanted to share this with you all, because I've seen questions posted before about criticism in comments and whether people will leave them or not. This is proof positive that just because you or I are the recipient of criticism, doesn't mean were are making enemies. I've had my foot in my mouth enough times to appreciate it when someone will set me straight. I may not like it at the moment it's offered, but as I let it soak in, if done properly, it makes me a better person in the long run.



Thanks Mary!

Make sure you vist them if you have a chance.

OK so the trip to California.



In July my father passed away and this weekend we, (mom, brothers, aunts and uncles) are going to place his ashes in the cemetery where his mother and father are buried. Not exactly what you might call a fun trip, but one that needs to be done none-the-less. We have a plaque/marker that was provided by the Navy that will mark his resting place. For some, who were unable to be at his memorial service, it will be a time to say goodbye. For others it will bring closure to them with regard to his chapter on this earth. To me? I'm not sure what it will bring. I'm at peace now, but this will likely bring my emotions to the surface again.



Good part of the trip is that I'll get to hang out with my brother Gene. We always have a great time teasing each other, and with Mark (middle brother) and mom there too it will be a no holds barred sarcasm fest. Ah yes...good times...good times indeed.



I might do a comment game post tomorrow or some variation there of.



I've been a bit lax in getting to all of your sites the last few days. Sorry if I haven't made it by, but I'll try to make it over before I leave.



Ciao.