wytfut

[wytfut]

A huge hole is forming

I've been in the Excelsior Henderson game since pretty much the beginning. Around 1999. Although I didn't buy/own one until 2001.

The community although small is very strong and supports pretty much each of the members some how some way. My youtube channel is an example (which is not exactly successful). The club is another. Friendships of course. Inner networking. AND..... Atlantic EH.

Jamie and Marty Jones started Atlantic EH in Elkton Virginia shortly after the factory closed its doors. Jamie and Gary (Jumper) Houk both started buying parts off shelves from dealerships all across the right coast that were getting out of the EH business. With their own money no less. ....

Jamie, is a well experienced mechanic. European sports cars mechanic, Diesel mechanic, and heavy equipment mechanic. I'm going to say he probably had quite a few years working on motorcycles also before then.

Their business was a huge gamble. Only so many customers out there..... the number was way below 2000. At the time it wasn't an immediate success, but did well, as the east coast owners supported them whole heartily. Jamie working out of the attached 2 stall garage of their home.

Here in the flatlands.... I had heard of them... but didn't know much other than that. We were dealing 99% with Bobby (Xman) Baldwin, and a touch with John Jones in Minnesota.

Basically thru attrition, we started dealing with Atlantic EH, and never looked back.

Jamie/Marty made another huge step, an attached shop, virtually doubling the square footage of their home. Something that can handle many X's at one time. Jamie thought this shop out well, and it worked.

In all the years I connected with them, Jamie was never ever less than 6 X's in or around his shop waiting for his soft touch. He had no need for work. They didn't need to advertise, as the bikes rolled in.

They held annual parties at their home for ALL of their customers. I did get to make one of those, and never felt so welcomed by so many strangers.

It was a promise that when you called to order parts or ask questions, the phone call was going to be close to an hour every time. Many times more so. They wanted to know the weather, hows the family, hows your X, "are you doing good?".... If Jamie didn't have time to talk, you could email him. He'd do email every Sunday, with replies.

I had an issue with my X, that needed some special order parts out of Las Vegas.... that were expensive. Marty just sent them to me. Me being confused called her immediately to cipher what was going on. She told me, use what I needed of these parts, which she'd bill me, and send the rest back.... no charge. (time sert kit). WHAT?

I'm guessing by now, that all readers are picking up, I cannot praise these fine people enough, for everything they have done for our community. You are correct... I could write anecdotes for pages. ..

...............

Jamie found out last week.... he's pretty much full of cancer. Yes its terminal. The time line they are giving him is sooooooooo short. I'm besides myself, as there is nothing I can do for them from here. I have some good X friends that are much closer and doing everything they can to make this a smooth process.

Marty before this.... has been having her own personal battle with Alzhiemers, and Jamie has committed himself to helping her, and working on X's in between. Jamie officially retired as the "official" Super X mechanic 2 summers ago in the Wisconsin Dells.

And this huge hole is forming within our community. There will be other heros within our group, no doubt. But none will be equal to our first 25 years of the Jones.

Jamie.... I hope you get to read this. I can't get anymore real than this. And I stand by all of this. Gods speed my friend!!

[wytfut]

That silly chair

This has struck me as one of those crazy things in life, that makes a guy scratch his head. We all stumble across things thru out our lives and continue.

Way back in the 90's Patti's Mother Jeanette, was struck with Neuropathy. Its a nerve thing where it affected her feet. They continuously felt like they were on fire or burning.

With the progress of this, it got to the point it was hard for her to sit down or get out of a chair.

Darel, Patti's Father, bought her a lift chair. In the time, it was very expensive, and worked very well for her.

Once Jeanette passed, we some how inherited this same chair.

Thru the nuances of time and life, it has become a wonderful "loaner" to many folks thru the years. I'd say that chair has traveled thousands of miles and lifted tons of folks butts.

Hip replacements, knee replacements, open heart surgery, broken legs.... this goes and goes.

And everytime someone would come over and get it out of the basement, then return it. We have never charged for its use, as it just sits all alone in the basement.

Several families have borrowed it more than once.... and that's no big deal.

The last time it was borrowed, the chair finally failed, and with attempts to revive it, it was disposed of. The family that borrowed it last, bought a brand new one, as it was still needed.

The Mienkes' (the borrowers) bought the new chair, and kept it at their home. And truthfully, I never thought anything of it... pretty much forgot about it, until I had back surgery December 6 last year.

Hank Mienke told me that anytime anyone needed a lift chair to give him a call, as he would loan out just as we had done. He liked the fact that we'd let anyone borrow ours (a community lift chair), and wanted the rules to apply with this very same new one. ok....

December 7 I was humbled enough that I called Hank to borrow the chair. We both laughed, as the situation pointed out to both of us, there is absolutely no way to predict the future.

Luke and Josh went and got it, and by golly, it was again a life saver. Never in a million years did I believe that back surgery was going to hamper my attempts of getting out of a chair. Or I would be afflicted with any health issues that would require "borrowing" this chair.

With some thoughts about "borrowing" Hanks chair, I remember Hank saying that the chair, is a community chair, and that it was available to anyone that needed one. I called him back a week or so later to verify it. Hank laughed and said, "once your are done with it, just keep it, but lend it out as needed." This put a smile on my face, and boys ended up putting it in the basement same place as the old disposed one.

About a month ago, I found out my sister was renting a lift chair, as she had open heart surgery. I called her, and asked why she rented, as she had in the past borrowed the old one. She told me that the last time the chair was getting worn out, although still affective. I then told her we had a brand new one.... a long groan passed in that conversation. This may not show the effect it had on me, but I laughed a lot....

2 nites ago, Hank called me and wanted to know if the chair was available, as his 53 year old son was going to have quad bypass heart surgery. And he lives in Colorado.

"Hank... its here, when ever, what ever" ..... I'm still laughing

Hank told me that once his son was done with it, it would come back to Nebraski again.... my home in particular.

This is just one of those quirky things that happens that I cannot explain.....

[wytfut]

Soccer.... flat lands style

A bit of my history. As a very young man involved with YMCA sports, my Father who was something of a basketball star at Boelus High School was envisioning me becoming another star like himself. I can't imagine his disappointment in my skills, or even a glimmer of understanding the sport basketball. I didn't have any of it. I was intimated by my fellow team members, and of course the other team.

Pop was also on the Boelus farm Baseball team. Yes, Boelus had their own ball field with lites, just outside of town in a flood plain.

Little Chiefs was the league I went out for, and again, I was way to immature mentally and physically to play any team sports. It just didn't fit the way I thought.

Because of this history, I've never been a fan of sports. Cornhuskers included. Believe me its a brutal position here in Nebraska, home of the bug eaters (who knew I'd ever get a chance to use that term correctly) .

Once I got to high school I did go out for Xcountry, and Track. I wasn't good at either one, but felt to be a part of something social. With my Pop a State Trooper, and my Mom a working RN, it was rare they'd appear when I competed, due to night shifts and day sleeping.

..............

Way back in the dinosaur days.... My oldest and middle sons decided by peer pressure to take up soccer. I'd guess 1rst or 2nd grade. This would be 1983ish.

Back then all soccer was played on Saturdays, at Woods Park, put on by Lincoln YMCA. This very moment in time, the Lincoln YMCA was the largest soccer club in America (over 500?). Woods Park at 33rd and O, was overwhelmed.

Back then, most Cornhusker parents couldn't even pronounce soccer, let alone even know the rules.

With that, I witnessed Parents coaching soccer, like the sport was football. the unhappy "Athletic Parent Syndrome" was very apparent. I witnessed it a lot back then. Its still lives to this day, but nothing like back then.

Parent coaches, parent spectators, were pretty venomous towards other teams, and "boosting" their own team.

All of that made me even more uncomfortable with sports.

After YMCA was fairly established, there was rumor of another soccer club forming in Lincoln, called CSA. CSA "gasp" had paid coaches, that were even certified in coaching soccer. The best of the best in Lincoln usually ended up joining CSA.

By 1993ish, my youngest son Josh was of age to play soccer (kindergarten then). He was coached by one of the Mom's and my oldest son Jake. The next year I decided to jump in with both feet and coach, to learn soccer, via certification thru the "Y". The "Y" was still a volunteer coach club.

I took soccer coach class from the Wesleyan girls coach. He had a winning record, and was a good instructor. In fact I took the class twice, as the team grew in experience, I gained coaching help, and went with my other coaches. (I still have a certificate somewhere, I believe it was the NSSA certification)

In general terms, the teams with "football" coaches, we'd normally beat. And the better coached teams always were weary of us, as we could surprise everyone. "Silly Waverly team... nothing but hicks!"

Our record was running about 50/50 (maybe a little bit better). As I wasn't pushing hard for winning seasons, but more for the education and enjoying soccer. My long range goal was for the boys to get opportunity to go on and play on a college team (I know, pretty lofty).

I had a couple of mentor coaches back then. Ones that I really looked up to, and tried to apply their ways with the boys (and 1 girl the late Carly Pester). A Lincoln high club coach, and Bob Warming at Creighton.

Once I found Bob Warming, I bought season tickets to all home Creighton games. Good times, Jonny Torres was the star reinventing soccer in the midwest. Now Jonny is the head coach (after playing pro on several different teams), and Bob is on retainer as consultant.

Got to meet Bob at a couple soccer camps. Very humble but outspoken coach. Really identified with him.

These guys coached games mostly very quiet for the most part. Their philosophy, was that if you had to yell and scream at the game, it was too late. If the team was failing you had to teach correction at practice. I know, way too simple, but that's what it boils down to. Coach Bob..... went to NCAA every year, and always finished very hi.

..............

This all sounds polite and gentlemanly to a point, but I have a side story to insert here.

My boys had to travel to Kearney for a game early in the season. The team and the parents were the worst poor sports I have ever witnessed. It was so bad, that mentally my kids were completely out of the game, and didn't have a chance. It was a blood bath. It was extreme, we were even badgered in the parking lot when we were leaving. I'd never seen before or since such actions against another team.

Later in the season, Kearney had to come to Lincoln to play us. The Kearney team was playing extremely rough, bad mouthing... just the worst sports ever. Again we lost, as I don't coach that type of playing, so the boys were not mentally into the game.

End of game I told the field ref.... "I'll take the red card, as I don't care..... but we will not becoming onto field to shake hands. This was the worst game ref'd and played I've ever seen"....

Ref became very pissed, and demanded we all come on field and berated us (both teams) for how the game went.

After the game I wrote a letter to the organizers of our league (only time I ever did it) complaining about the kearney team. And that if we got scheduled to play with them again next season, we would take the forfeit.

It turned out we were not the only team to complain. There was another. The next season, they were kicked out of the league.

The following season, they were allowed back in..... totally completely turned around. The best sports ever. All smiling faces. And still a good skilled team. I honestly don't remember if we won or not, but it was a true pleasure to play them.

..............

About the time the boys (and 1 girl) got to Jr. Hi, we ended up taking the league. A very proud moment for such a small silly metal. This particular season, thru attrition, we were slimmed way down on our size of membership. If I remember right, we only had 14 on the bench. That season I received more compliments from other coaches on how "in shape" my players were. And they were, as part of practice was just getting "lungs" to play.....

It was also about at this time I volunteered to help the high school girls team. On the girls team was one of Jake's early girl friends and I had heard a lot of disappointment from her about the coach.

He was a true football coach during season, and was told if he wanted to be a teacher at Waverly, he had to coach the girls soccer team. Nothing like volunteering.

Bret was a good guy, just a terrible soccer coach that didn't want to take any classes, or learn about it. It was filler for spring sports.

I volunteered to help coach goal keepers. I'm not a goal keeper coach, but watching our goal keepers, it was an easy job, they weren't goal keepers. Anything I'd offer, was like magic to them.

Back in those days... there was no "class" for different high schools. All soccer was ALL CLASS, as there were not enough teams to form a season. So inexperienced teams like Waverly (class B), would play powerhouse teams like Lincoln High (class A).

I witnessed a lot of Nebraska high school soccer history during these years. Stuff that now is common, but rare back then.

Cornhuskers decided to start a girls soccer team. Coached by a Canadian National coach (off season). They were playing all home games at CSA champion stadium then. As new as they were, they were always very competitive all the way to NCAA. John Walker is still the cornhusker coach.

......

My boys team eventually made it up to hi school age, and all pretty much went out for soccer, and all made varsity by Sophomore year. I'd still coach them off season. The coach was not a soccer coach, but Waverly had enough talent/skill to go to a long way during season. Making it to state, etc.

I have to comment here, to the credit of THIS coach. Waverly had a huge reputation as a very violent team with the coach before. I remember after watching them play Lincoln High with my 2 older sons, and they were going thru the hand shake line, one of the Waverly kids cold cocked one of the Lincoln High kids, right there in the hand shake line. Oh my....

My hi school girls never became a power house, as a large number had NO experience playing soccer in their lives. Because of this, you'd be lucky if you had 7 experienced players on the field at one time.

By the time I left to retire (2002) from the high school girls, the latest coach Joel was pretty good stuff. He's been inheriting a lot of highly skilled girls, but just can't get a break when it comes to the end of the season tournaments. Joel is still the girls hi school coach and coaches off season.... he's that committed.

Back in the beginning when it was "All" class, we had some amazing athletic studs, that would at least pull the team together mentally. They didn't know soccer, but they knew team sports.

The late Carly Pest went on to play with the girls once in hi school, and was on varsity her freshman year, as a keeper.

I got to see Josh play at state 2 times. But none of the boys I coached went on to play college soccer.

My girls, who kept coming back game after game only to get the shit kicked out of them...... I had 5 girls go on and actually made varsity, and played college soccer. Midlands in Fremont, Wesleyan in Lincoln, Concordia in Seward.

Now I'm watching 3 granddaughters play soccer. One is in 2nd grade. another middle school, and oldest a sophomore in hi school. In the over 20 years since I retired, flatland soccer has evolved huge.

Soccer skills have improved by leaps. No more the isolated star. All players are playing like the stars of past, as those skills are common now.

Too many clubs today, I don't have a clue, how many. Most if not all clubs are paid coaches. Many of the coaches are coaching multiple teams, and coaching as a paid career. (sidenote: for a short period one summer I was coaching 5 teams at once, all volunteer). Kids are traveling very far to be on teams (Lincoln kids going to Gretna clubs). Club teams traveling all over the country to compete in tournaments.

I think I need to stop there, as the "money" being spent on ALL youth today in sports, is a completely another topic, that i'm not sure I can wrap my head around it.

Youth Soccer in Nebraska is in the spring.... the season has started. It'll be another season of me watching my girls, with a smile on my face. They each are showing some excellent skills, that are going to take them places.

[wytfut]

One colorful dude... at minimum

Couple of weeks ago, I got hit from all sides with all sorts of Matt Martinoskyisms.....

I'm guessing Matt maybe thinking I'm some sort of groupie, and that's actually quite funny. No... I'm just overly impressed with this guy. Sometimes I get a bit giddy about all of Matt's world.

The seed was planted in my itty bitty head. I thought itd work itself over to an earworm,... It didn't, something malleable, to work with. Matts image was just sitting there glaring at me. Forced me to write with no plan today, right now....

Here's how it went:

Watching tv, and they had a blip about Matt being interviewed (again) for his job/services to the homeless of Lincoln. Its not common, but I'm not overly surprised anymore when it happens. Has happened more than a couple of times.

And dammit,.... its all deserving. He's good at it. The city of Lincoln and some organizations have awarded him with some remarkable recognitions. He works hand in hand with several agencies including Lincoln Police Dept.

If you know Matt, you'll know that he has an advantage, that is not exactly the common man. Flowing red hill billy beard, tattoo'd sleeves, and who knows what else. Matt is a free flowing spirited person... and it works for him very well.

This gets him on the insiders scoop with the "shelterless" (as the new term is used). He's not just some suit fresh out of the office trying to push his way into someones life. He's recognized as the real deal, and means what he says.

I looked hard, for the tv interview, texted his dad.... couldn't find it, until about 30 minutes later. Got my Matt fix, and life was good.

With in the next 24 hours fate pounded me with Matt.

I keep checking his youtube site, but nothing new on there, its great and entertaining but older. All from his artistic point of view. (I love sending one of his videos to friends). https://youtu.be/lA9CTpYSBkk?si=lSoFYaAwLzhNsFXo

This brought up thru a search by accident, he just released some music on "bandcamp.com". Several originals, and several covers. As he ages, his voice is fitting him perfect. Incredible voice. This was all done in december/november?? No idea, I just tripped across it. https://mattmartinosky.bandcamp.com/album/red-headed-stranger

And with Matts touch.... all proceeds go to someone else than himself.

He's got some music on his youtube channel.... earlier stuff, but this new stuff is a treat. www.youtube.com/@mmartinosky

Then there he was on a podcast. Its a couple local of guys. Very good with what they do here. Matt told of his history. Its not pretty or glorified. Makes me wonder how a person goes thru all that and becomes what he is today. https://youtu.be/FwIPM52ZD3s?si=VgQeD_zojfScDtWS

Alright.... everyone caught up to here? Got an idea what this guy is all about? I doubt it, he's all over the place.

There's other things he's into..... Motorcycling (did a tour on some vintage bikes a few years ago with his wife [she on her own]), old mechanical things, etc.

Now put all that in a bag, and hold on to it....

Matt has been battling cancer for a couple of years now. All the big scary words of treatment. Good times, bad times..... it just continues, and so does Matt. HOW?

He makes all of it look natural, as everything is just a common everyday movement of life. Small hic ups. No problem.

Does this guy ever sit still???

..............

I've known Matt most of his life. His Pop and I are best of friends (LTT employees). This doesn't give me insiders info on Matt, it just means I do know him. That we can have a fair conversation between us without being too uncomfortable. Surprises me that he'd take the time to have a conversation with a geezer like me anyway.

BUT......

He inspires me to be a better person. To quit whining about trivial stuff. To celebrate life and its randomness. To take on with no regrets formidable foes.

Sorry Matt... had to do it. Please don't stop what you are doing, not sure there is anyone out there that can do all of that, and well.

[wytfut]

Whoa... wait .... What? 25 years?

This year marks 25 years of Excelsior Henderson Motorcycle production. The factory started production in 1999, and closed its doors mid 2000.

Sounds like sad story of sorts, and it is to a point. A lot of that, was the early X's had issues, that compounded the fact our X's ended up being orphan bikes.

But in reality, its obviously a large portion of my life style. Many many good times I've been involved with thru this community.

This coming end of July, the annual rally in Belle Plaines Minnesota will be the celebration of this 25 years. I know the club board members are going to go all out and trying to make this one very special rally....more so than any of the other get togethers we've had thru the years.

My X.... 525 (310th off the line) still has a second glance look to it, "what is that?" Im most likely very prejudice to the Super X, but I really think, these bikes are of a timeless look. Folks are constantly scratching their heads and cannont believe my X is as old as it is..... let alone the miles it has. Hell, it messes with me when I wash it, and get close to it. It still stirs my soul like the very first day of ownership.

The folks within this community, are generally some very nice folks. I've commented several times, as I'm used belonging to different groups, that if you get close to 10 members, its a promise that there will be at least one asshole. Don't take that wrong, we do have issues, but not near that number. Honestly I'd be hard pressed to point out a Super X asshole in this community.

We seem to really try and get along... maybe the common goal? The promotion of a bike that challenged the world of motorcycling? The inner support this group gives each individual, is amazing.

Being I'm not an original owner of my Super X (bought mine as 3rd owner with 1500 miles on it), I could be thought of lesser... and I'd except it. The members that are original owners, are becoming due to attrition a smaller and smaller group. And as we are in the process of interviewing members for historic values.... I was one of the first to be interviewed.

I'm honored with this, as I don't believe I'm worthy truthfully representing Super X ownership.

I'm looking forward to July. I'm a weirdo... the rest of my family will be east of Cuba, but nope, I'll be in Belle Plaines.

25 years.... oh my. What/who will be involved with the 50? Will our scoots still be quite the machine?

[wytfut]

Time out PLEASE..

I do realize that as I get older, I'm going to witness more and more death and destruction. Its the nature of time, isn't it? The older a person gets, so does this persons friends.... and we all pass on or suffer some sort of catastrophic event. The odds as we get older, are piling up against us old coots.

I KNOW THIS....

But this sudden onslaught I've been a part of the past year or so, I think has been a huge jump, as in not natural. Yeah, its fate, and uncontrol able, fluke of nature.... BUT...

My experiences with fire/rescue.... I saw all of this sort of thing for years. But maybe it was abstract. I don't feel that it was. I feel I was neck deep in drive/emotion to do the right thing everytime.

But shit, its been really hard to keep "the ol chin up"....

I'll survive.. I know I will, and will be still standing with a smile on my face. But I need a time out. .... something to the tune of a nice long bike ride. Or my back healed up enough that I can tackle a project or 2.

Here's a run down of since Jan. 1 of 2023:

Excelsior Henderson Buddy AJ in Wisconsin, moved to Wisconsin to start a new job. He's in his late 50's. And he needed back surgery.

This back surgery required going thru his mouth. Abstract as it sounds.... He came out of surgery, with no use of his arms. He's a hell of a nice guy, and ends up with this result most likely to live with the rest of his life. Hang in there AJ, I'm still rooting for you..

....................

Below is Andy's story.... that his family now has to live with, with no less his large group of friends.

................

A close family to ours, lost first the father/husband about 10 years ago. Then their son Darrin about 5 years later. And now first part of December their son Doug. Mom/wife Carolyn, now is alone, other than relatives.

............

And now Toms story which is below also. His fight with brain cancer, his wife with Alzheimer's. His story started this past July.

....................

Buddy Lester has been battling a staph infection he apparently got from way back in the 70's. His battle has included skin grafts, and soon bone grafting of sorts. This has been going on for months now, with him pretty laid up. 1 year older than I...

.................

Another buddy here in Waverlyville, has been battling prostrate cancer. It won't let go, and he has given up the chemo battle. Now treating with hormones, and it appears that the hormones are holding it at bay... Hang in there Steve!!

.............

Quick edit.... just found out my sister Patti (same name as my Wife) is going to have open heart surgery within the next few weeks, due to a bad heart valve. Intended goal to replace with modified cow valve.... She rightly so has some concerns.....

...........

There are others, no less minute in tragedy.... that have been on going for some time now. And they with their battles keep on keeping on.

..........

Is it that I'm too sensitive to these type of events? Or do I care too much? Do I get too attached to people I meet. Maybe I'm surrounded with just an enormous amount of good folks?

I'm not a religious person by any means. I do not want to discuss it here and now.... as I'm pretty sure I can't explain how I operate. I do not feel like I'm a "lost soul". But if there is a deity that delves out such horror to so many good people..... blah blah blah...

............

I'll take what ever is dealt to me in life... including this. But by golly I could use a break. How about we throttle back at least a little bit, no need to run at "red line" all the time. Something back closer to "normal".... lol, whats normal?

Everyone.... hug your kids/favorite person. Make sure they wear their seat belts. Don't run with scissors. Don't aim any guns at anyone, empty or not. Don't put out grease fires with water. Don't stand in water when around electricity. Put new batteries in your carbon monoxide detectors. Look both ways when you cross the street. ..... now Im giggling.

Get old they said. It'll be fun they said. Maybe I'm not mentally old enough yet....

[wytfut]

Andy

Went to a memorial service and reception yesterday. Family to family friends.

My heart aches for Andy's family.

What a horrible life challenge for this family. This service and reception .... well there weren't many dry eyes.

Andy was Josh's age.... 38, Josh and his buddy's were all Andy's friend at one time or another. They were all there... most of my old soccer team.

All 3 of my Boys were there. They all know Andy's family.

Julie (Andy's Mom) and Patti are close friends. Patti and her "hang out" a lot.

I coached "Andy" and 2 of his sisters in soccer. Andy, and his sisters were all great soccer players. High Schoolers.... the age when they get to really show what they got.

If I remember right, Andy lived with Josh for a while too.

We knew Andy....knew him well for a very long time.

.....

Andy was an individual, far from the regular mold. Very intelligent. Hand skills galore. With me always very respectful.

Although never married, was big time family guy with his home family. It was very obvious, especially when he spoke of his reputable Grandfather or his nieces/nephews.

He hadn't figured out a career, (tried many) but the options for this guy... pretty sure he could've worked anywhere and been a definite asset. Where ever he was working, he was the man in demand. His schooling and life experiences.... if a person were to sit down and look was amazing.

Somewhere in the past 5-10 years, Andy lost his way. I've only heard stories....so I can't explain. He still treated me with respect.

Did his path cause the loss of his life, or was it something else?....Not for me to guess. Either way its still a tragedy and a waste. No amount of information will bring Andy back.

Andy's Sisters and brother all got up to the podium and made their peace with him and shared their love for him with all of us. Bill Andy's father did too. Plus 2 buddies. Absolutely incredible.

How does someone do this without falling apart. Don't take it wrong, there was some struggling, but they did it. Some great stories, and showing bits and pieces of Andy to all of us. The best tribute to Andy.

RIP Andy.... you are missed by a very large and wide group of people.

.

[wytfut]

tiny gifts (not really)

As anyone knows that reads my goofy thoughts here. I write, as I like to write, and sometimes I get an ear worm, that just won't let go of me. This is not me trying to create art (at least I don't believe so), as much as its journal of ear worms.

The meds I did 6 weeks ago, were mind bending. I think so much that some thoughts may have just disappeared.

But one ear worm has stuck with me for weeks now. But I haven't been able to write about it, with the correct impact. Not that I write to improve myself, or make perfect prose. That is a laugh within its self....

......

I have what I feel very fortunate, many friends. Many of them I consider very loyal, as I'm very loyal to them. Im very comfortable with this.

One of them is some distance from me. We have a very odd and scary cosmic relationship which I won't go into any details. But sometimes it appears we are doublegangers of sorts.

He has had handed him by life, to raise his own grandchild. I've seen this done many times in my life time. And without putting a foot into the water, I don't know that I could do this my self. I would hope I could, but I don't know I could.

This grandchild has picked a life style, that is challenging enough for adults, let alone a teenager.

Because of this choice of life style, the pressure became too much. And the grandchild made an effort to end it all, around the middle of November if I remember right...

Let the above sink in for a bit before continuing on..... just put yourself there for a moment.

......

By nature, I try to help folks out when ever possible. Many times its a huge task, but generally, I won't turn anything down. Strangers and friends alike.

My buddy, in this situation, I couldn't help him other than by phone call, or email.

During this event, I don't recall for sure, but we ended up on the phone with each other (I think I called him, for a weekly chat). He tried to make like it was a regular day in his life, but he started to fall apart in the conversation. He finally broke down and told me the details. I insisted he hang up as family needed him (for goodness sake, he was in the E.R. when he answered his phone). And told him to call me when things freed up.

He did. I hope I helped in conversation with him, but probably will never know for sure. I did my best at the moment, we don't get rehearsal time.

In our weekly conversations, I'd ask about the grandchild after the initial event. And he'd reply "all appears to be going well..." ... As I trust my friend, I believed him, but still thought about the grandchild time to time.

......

No one wants to lose family. Especially family that is younger than yourself. Even more so, when this family member is blood. This event had an impact on my friend.... and yeah, myself (as selfish as it is).

Time as usual continued on...

......

A week before Xmas, we were having our weekly phone call. My buddy during the phone call, called out to his grandchild who had just walked in the door to home(with honest enthusiasm). The grand child responded, with even more enthusiasm, the same back at him. So much so, I lost thought train on our conversation. it took my breath away. This was via a phone call thousands of miles away, but I honestly heard "I'm fine, and I'm going to get better"

......

My tiny gift I received for Xmas, . And I got it via listening on the phone.

My buddy, also got this very same gift, in person. .... PLUS. His grandchild is healing. And he didn't loose his grandchild....

......

Xmas 2023.... one hell of a Xmas

[wytfut]

A whiners report, POV.....

Greetings all..... at this very moment in time.... I'm recooping from again another back surgery. To no ones fault, even my own suppose. Time take its toll.

This time has been a journey, more involved than I ever thought would happen to me ever again. I feel at times that my medical incidents seem a bit slanted towards me at times as in picking on me. But thats just my POV. I'm sure it is not.

I won't mention my surgeons name, as I like the guy and I think everything that has happened most likely was out of his hands, and he is very good at his craft. But other than Being very hands on with every patient, he doesn't have a lot of control over what happens to his patient. And so it is....

My medical issues have spanned mostly from 2000 to now. 4 hip surgeries, 2 carpal tunnel, a blood clot incident, a heart attack, and previous back procedures.

My father couldn't handle any morphine products and accordingly, we'd tell hospital personnel, who pretty much ignore us. He'd become outrageous, and out of control, living his nightmares. I've even went so far to tell them that if they insist he have morphine of any kind that they had my permission to tie him in his bed. This always brought a strange look from the person I'd be talking too. But anyone who had lived Delmars nightmares with him cannot describe what they saw. The most common was for him to leap out of bed ripping out his IV's, stitches, etc. .... even dislocating his brand new hip, falling over the rails he couldn't get down.

With my latest, I'm noticing I maybe affected also my morphine, same as my Father. I've had nothing but tons of vivid dreams and at time discerning, what is reality, and what is dreaming. Even when currently I'm only taking 1 hydracodone at bed time.... I get a bit blurry during the day. I've also noticed that I can't really read right now.... maybe a little bit. But my eyes keep jumping around (old EMT days.... "ping pong ball eyes")

When I came out of surgery, I remember nothing of any conversations. .... I seemed to come around to reality about 2 days later, ...... no matter what I said or did.

So Dec. 6 after surgery, a lot of things I was told was said, which I have no recollection. Barely holding my head up.... And a nurse put an ice pack on my new wound, and I went to sleep the next 2 hours.

When I woke the ice pack was warm and sweaty. ... Apparently I frost bit my new wound. So much so that it felt as if my back was on fire.... I was very surprised and got a reply to my questioning "we told you no more than 15 minutes....." absolutely do not remember this.

I got home, Patti wasn't happy that I wouldn't even try the ice pack, but I just couldn't stand it. Between the burning and itching.... no way was I going to do it.

Other conversation after surgery from what I understand was how to wear my back brace. I remember a foggy moment of some sort of conversation. I remember a part where someone (PA?) said I wasn't wearing it correctly. In my pile of papers once I was home, no mention of the back brace, but I remembered somethings. No bending, no twisting, no lifting, ..... pretty much the norm, that I bite my cheek with when hearing. I've had this conversation with my surgeon in the past, and he too chuckles at my point of view.

All of those requests, are impossible, unless you have someone assigned/attached to your hip. I know they sound reasonable, but its really not. Maybe I'm just hard headed, which I can admit to easily.

But I did indeed piss myself 3 times the first night waiting for help off the nurses call button.

Here are my favorite ones where the rules are exempt:

How do you use the toilet? How do you wipe? both of these require bending over and a bit of twisting..... but they do say sitting up is okay... but you are bending over to get there.

Getting in bed.... you are again bending over, and twisting too. Even if done the proper way prescribed....

I'm an old guy. I get up at least 4 times every nite. The toilet is not 10 from my bed. I'm not going to put on that brace, for less than 10 feet 4 times a night.... its just not practical, and I think maybe a bit over board for moving about to get that brace back on and off.

Did I mention that you don't need to wear the brace in bed. I'm good with that, as my wound was screaming by the time I got home. But there was no instruction that I remember on sleeping position. One of my past PA's had very specific instructions on sleep position.

Apparently twisting in bed is ok, bending ok, etc. .... I have no idea.

I even remember someone saying that when sitting if you wanted to take off the brace for a few minutes is was allowed. Condition of my wound..... it was a lot of a "few minutes"...... I even called my surgeons office trying to get this all straight in my head..... couldn't do it.... too much drugs.

I know... its all petty, and I'm just venting from this longer than expected process.

3 nights ago, I woke up with a new chest pain. My pulse was fine. The tempo felt good.... but I couldn't take a full breath without shooting pain. All of this upper right chest, front to rear.

I monitored it until around noon and had Patti haul my butt in. I noticed walking across the kitchen I was struggling to keep my breath.

I had a blood clot. I'm very familiar with blood clots (5 in 2000, and a monster in Xmas 2019) over the past 20+ years. But everyone has been different. Each medical team has treated it with its own interpretation of "how its supposed to be done".

For those that don't know..... like a lot of medical issues, blood clots in the wrong place (all of mine have been in the heart lungs area) can kill you.

I spent 24 hours in the hospital. Got home completely wasted. With what felt was at least a couple days lost recooping from the original surgery.

Feeling pretty good right now. Still not a lot of appetite. I'm currently not on any meds for this procedure. except I'll be taking my last Hydracodone at bed time. We'll see how it goes tonight, I'd like to be off of them, .... but if issues arise, I'll ask for another script.

Not very many folks will read this.... and that's ok. But for those that want to know how I'm doing.... here ya go...

As for my back issues? ..... I'm excited. it appears they are all gone. It doesn't mean something else may not show up down the road, but this time, I'm really excited.

[wytfut]

In honor of "Turk"

Found out this morning, a huge jolt to my realm, my old roommate and best man in my wedding has stage 4 inoperable/untreatable brain cancer. This isn't about me, but I'm still a student of life, and trying wrap my head around this piece of information.

Some folks may read this and become very uncomfortable. As I'm not following "normal" trends with this type of situation. I mean no harm, and actually don't believe many will actually see/read this installment, including Tom. And thats ok... Nothing wrong is being printed here.

In my opinion, tributes to the "gone/lost" are fine. But the person that is being spoken about, doesn't get to hear it, let alone in person..... maybe we should change our trendy ways and speak up while everyone is still around?

He is alive and getting therapy to learn how to get his balance back as of this writing.

And as it is.....

Tom "turk" "turkey" Kohn. His name came about due to a character on TV then who used the term Turkey a lot in his vocabulary. How ever that came about, the name stuck for years. Maybe not so much now... I've heard him called Professor recently, by others who worked with him before retirement. Later in his career, he got a job in another department.

Tom and I shared an apartment at 33rd and Vine I think for 2 and half years.

Tom started at Lincoln Hoot and Hollar construction department about 6 months after me. Fresh out of the "seabees"..

Our boss (who was terrified of climbing poles) attempted to teach Tom and another new guy how to climb .... on the job.

Couldn't keep Tom off the poles, and the other new guy, we couldn't keep on the poles. Tom was probably one of the best lines men I ever knew, and the best bucket truck operator.... nothing he couldn't do phone work wise, and do very well.

From what I remember we hit it off very well. His sense of humor just fit me. Within a few months, we got an apartment.

Tom is a Crete guy. Went to high school there. And then joined the Navy. This was back at the tail end of Viet nam... and was stationed in Thailand.

When he got out, bought a brand new 73 custard colored blazer. A very proud owner he was.

He also owned a Honda 100, and I owned a 73 Norton 850. When we'd ride together, it was sort of a Mutt and Jeff affair. He later bought a very nice, fast 74 Kawasaki Z1 900. He made up for the years lost on his toy bike.

We shared tons of info between ourselves, including beliefs, and ideas.

Probably one of the most honorable people I know. There is no way I can put myself on that same shelf.

Lots of humorous stories come to mind.

We were both pranksters. I'd throw a cold cold water surprise on him when he was in the tub. And he'd get me back. We both loved the scream of shock.

Somewhere there was Vaseline on a toilet seat.... can't seem to remember that story clearly.

Borrowed his blazer during a blizzard (1974?). I buried it in a snow bank and hand dug it out. Returned it home, and never told him. He got in a day or so later, and noted the alternator wasn't charging. Popped the hood, and the whole engine compartment was stuffed with snow and Ice..... all to ..."what the hell?...." Honestly, although very funny, I had no idea that actually happened.

Tom being shorter, I just couldn't help myself. Could be considered mean. He used to drive our boss around in a pickup. Toms job was to get the pickup and warm it up. I took blocks of wood and tapped them to the peddles, to help him reach the peddles (same thing done for little kids to reach the peddles when learning to ride a bike). Just trying to help out. He didn't really need them.... lots of laughs, and he took it in stride.

He was frequent at "lil Bo's" with his hi school buddy Dave who also was fresh out of the military. Those 2 could drink hard in those days being fresh out of the military.

One night I decided to hang out with them at Bo's, which is a scary thought, as I've always been a fly weight for drinking.... and tried to match drink for drink with them. By the time I got into the car to go home, I was blotto. Dave had drove, and it was a itty bitty Fiat, that I folded myself up to fit in the back (no seat).

We got home and Tom decides he's hungry and grabs a frying pan and what appeared to be a full bottle of oil to cook something up. By this time, I'm dizzy and wondering what I've gotten myself into. I walk by the stove looking at the bubbling smoking heated oil..... and I run for the toilet.

I was dating my Wife in this piece of time.... and eventually got engaged. Tom and I parted ways, and he moved in with Dave.... in the Meadowlane/Bethany area.

Tom was my best man, and tormented me throughout the ceremony, under his breath. I still giggle.

Tom started dating a wonderful girl from his past.... Pam, and they married. Although Toms bachelor party wasn't anything extra abnormal, I remember it well.

I can still remember bits of their wedding at the Havelock Methodist church.

From this point on to the past couple of years, we didn't stay in touch much. But would see each other at work. And everything was cool. Our paths had just separated... life moves on.

During this "vacant" period of separation, Tom got married to Pam. Bought a nice acreage south of Lincoln in the Norris school district. Raised a Son and a Daughter. Was a boy scout leader, and was on the Norris school board. He was a busy man.

Now that we are both retired, we see each other more than the past 30 years. 2 Winters ago he entrusted me to restore his old Z1, which he had kept all these years.

I was very surprised on both counts. I enjoyed the project.

He's a member of the geezers club, so we see each other fairly frequent now.

This entry is obviously missing huge chunks of a long period of time. But I feel justice, as these are hi lites remembered. I know everyone that knew Tom has their own stories, that more than likely bring a smile to their faces...

This is my Friend Tom. A best friend from years ago.

[wytfut]

Geezers Club

As prementioned... I'm a member of a very informal club. Its a club of a bunch of retired telephone guys (around 10).

a little background:

When "Alltel" bought out Lincoln Hoot and Hollar, our department was close to 150 employees in Lincoln, plus another 20 in the territory. When I retired Alltel slashed the numbers, and there were less than 10 in Lincoln and another 10 in the territory.

thus:

Its actually a very funny/fun thing I get involved with once a month if that.

These guys all get together every Thursday at a McDonalds in Lincoln, just to get together and gab. Its hard to believe, but if you think about it, where can a bunch guys that don't want to go to a bar in the morning get together, and reminisce the "old" days.

There is nothing that will fit that bill that I know of. I know my Pops old geezers club would meet at Virginia's almost every weekday for breakfast, take up lots of tables during their busiest business hours, ignoring the other customers, and hang our for an hour or 2.

One of the funny issues with my group, is they are a little bit tight with the cash. In my opinion, if you are going to use a business for anything, people involved should at least patronize the business. Even if you need just to use the restroom, I'd come out and buy at least a candy bar.

These geezers (not all but more than 1) will not buy anything... not even coffee, come in and join in the conversations. I buy a breakfast on purpose everytime.

We get pretty loud, but there are always vacant seats, so we aren't exactly taking away business for other customers to sit. Unless our volume scares them away... that's an unknown.

Yeah, we're loud, there is cussing. Bodacious deep loud laughter. And all the old stories told over and over again. To a certain extent the stories are "painted up".

It is a brotherhood of sorts. Its like we are all still in our 20's and comparing the size of our dicks (via crazy ass stories).

None of us as far as I know, ever do anything else with each other. Another member and myself, could easily be considered outsiders, as when we retired, we both were in management, not union like the rest.

But we are welcomed with no issues that I can see.

The stories are the key. We all actually survived those days. Actually survived, isn't a strong enough term. These were the days of alcoholism, multiple marraiges, adultry, physical violence, unsafe (but excepted then) work environments, many extremely dangerous situations, illiteracy, work a while convicts, and lots and lots of physical labor. Many of the above descriptions to me are/were an adrenaline rush.

It was the early to mid 70's when we all started there. The Phone company being a mom/pop company didn't spend money on equipment that was safe or labor saving. It was all hard labor. Day in and out. Our only savior/referee was the union or what little common sense that could be applied.

No the company wasn't rude, ... actually far from it. They did (whether we saw/heard it or not) care about their employees, even us "bottom dwellers of the company".

We had quite a few Vietnam Vets, that had seen some horrible things. They fit in perfect, and probably set the work ethic.

Reading above, you can see.... lots of possibilities for stories. And there are.

Someday (I've made attempts before), I'm going to try and blog/journal/biography what it was like to work in this lost type of technology/environment. It is truly a lost time. Nobody does this type of work anymore, not to the intensity of labor now to then.

A bunch of broken old guys "yucking it up"... being loud, and getting young again. Some of us have aged tremendously, with lots of bad luck health. And others (few), its hard to tell that the years have gone by.

I like this group when I go. Its fun to relive those days. Some of the guys LIVE for Thursday, it really means a lot to them.

I'm guessing those guys don't have a lot going on at home to keep themselves busy? Or this brotherhood means much more to them than to me.

I do know that when my house burned Xmas 93, most of them responded one way or the other, with no question.

its a brotherhood, union or not... all geezers

[wytfut]

deal with what your are dealt part II

As I know very few folks read my blogs (which is fine, this is just a hobby and a place to relieve stress).... I write, .... I'm not going to be famous or make any money here, it is what it is. I write this as, some could think maybe this entry is too bold.

This morning meeting with the geezers club (retired telephone guys)every thursday morning. I don't attend very regular, but do enjoy when I do.

Large crowd this morning (surprises me McDonalds puts up with us noisy phone guys, and not purchasing very much). One or two "new" guys showed up.

One of the guys showed up all messed up..... stoned. Slack jaw, mush mouth, sleepy eyed, and slurring speech, with rolling head position. He has "TED", but his eyes he could barely keep open. All the signs of something.

This guy rarely shows up.... never when I'm there, which is a good thing as I have issues with him. I'm pretty except able of people in general, as long as I don't have to live with them... not a big deal.

Him showing up in this condition just spooked the hell out of me, and I left quickly after...

... I dealt with it this way. It is now in my opinion the wrong decision. As a past EMT of 18 years training/experience, I should have just taken charge, and got his keys and proceeded with what ever was to follow.

He drove to our meet, a long distance. Unknown if he left his home stoned or did something along the way. It appeared to me to be eatables.... it could have been a prescription issue, but he is a known stoner for many years.

And I left... spooked with my tail between my legs. Half way home I realized that it wasn't the best decision. And once I got home guilt hammered me hard.... I'm still dealing with that so some degree. Don't worry... I'm ok, now..

I don't know what happened after I left. But I do know everyone sitting close to him knew something was amiss.

If that guy gets into an accident on the way home..... well I guess I'll just have to deal with that, if/when it happens. right or wrong...

We have all seen the drunk person at parties, in days past, and most people ignore it, and don't worry about it. Let the person drive off...

This is not acceptable practice in this day and age in my head, but I still I did nothing.

Another instance where I'll just have to deal with my thoughts/actions. And yeah I know we all have regrets... and mistakes that haunt us for the rest of our lives, never to be forgotten.

I hope with my heart he made it home ok... I wish no one injury or harm, its just not my nature.

[wytfut]

Deal with what you are dealt...

A simple comment that can confuse. Everyone does this. But most likely not like anyone else or what they may think is proper.

Even people who appear not to "deal with what they are dealt" actually do. They are dealing with it.... but it isn't recognized to anyone but themselves. As in a third party would say, " why don't they do something about that"..... but they are, and you don't recognize it.

I'm one of the "odd man out" types. The way I deal with issues/items/people I'm sure is considered pretty outlandish, or "what in the world was he thinking??" Or.... (I'm giggling here) a direction that no one in his right mind would ever do. My results "maybe different"....

Some of us are very good at dealing with what we are dealt. But are the "us's" really? Is it only because its recognized and seen popular or exceptable, when the end result appears.

Most of the time I don't believe we have the right to judge how someone handled "what they were dealt". I do catch myself though, ... and wish I hadn't.

LOLOLOL..... life is most definitely not sanitary.... judging, dealing, living.

No matter. ...

Generally I'm an "up" person. An extrovert maybe too much. Accepting. As I age, some of this, or at least parts go away. Is it age, or is it me? I hope its age and I recognize it, and try to amend.

But by golly, I still deal with issues every day. Sometimes it seems I get a streak of bad decisions. But when I get it right, it makes it all worth while. Gives me a feeling of self accomplishment.

You may think I'm writing about huge issues, that approach all of us time to time. I am, but I'm also writing about petty daily house keeping issues.

A persons personal values determines which way we decide to take something.

For example:.... I'm a tightwad. At least I consider myself one. I was getting financial assistance for a medication I'm on. This year they decided I make too much money. That has now cost me more than $800/year. Its a fancy convenient medication.

But another very old one is really cheap, as in almost free. I requested my personal Dr. to change my med to the this one. He tried to talk me out of it..... as its inconvenient for him and his staff if I'm on it. I dealt with it..... now I'm on the cheap one. I'm not out for my Dr. and staff, I just had to decide what was best for me.

I think I dealt with it correctly. I'm sure some don't.

Another example, something bigger.... life changing maybe: I retired from Lincoln Hoot and Hollar with over 30 years.

With the kids out of the house, and my position at that time, money was no issue. I was actually walking around with cash in my billfold. Many would consider this WAY too young to retire from a career.

But I did indeed retire. The job be what it may, for my mindset was way too stressful. Alltel was not a Mom/Pop sort of affair. Alltel didn't know/care about me or my fellow workers. Alltel was there to make money. Careers are secondary.

Lincoln Hoot and Hollar, knew who I was, and when I needed help from them, they actually did. For example when my house burned down, many privileges happened to my advantage.

We've struggled financially since retirement. I cannot deny. But we have survived, and I'm still a pretty happy guy.

Other events happened since then and have knocked the shit out of our financials, "if only I was still working at the phone company". But..... we are still here.

My current "deal", is my back (ad nauseum) . Yes continuing on and on and on. This in turn brings other deals to my table of life. My particular example being my "rat truck" project, sitting in the steel shed with a ton of dust on it. My back will not let me tackle this project. ... I'll deal with it, but at the moment I'm empty headed for answers.

Somehow what ever I did to deal with these obstacles, worked.... well up to this time. Dominoes come to mind here, so a true time line may prove different. But then.... its evolved.... and its a "new deal" to deal with.

My inspiration to this, came today to me after watching one of my favorite movies. I was not planning to watch it, in fact I had a whole scenario of things to do today..... now postponed a couple of hours. Patti had just "had it on", and it captured me again.

2 versions of this movie are out. One English (the original). And the American version. Both versions are excellent per my rating. Both were released kind of under the radar, with not much Marketing.

"Otto"...

Boiled down, it shows me how a person struggles with the issues he is dealt, and what he thinks is the right decision/result, no matter how abstract it may appear, to keep himself comfortable.

[wytfut]

Buddy Mark Hutchins.....

[wytfut]

70 going on 20..... riding the flat lands of Nebraski

Time really does fly the older you get. I understand that this is quoted all the time, but I gotta say its all so true.

Thus.... there seems at times not enough time to ride. Or enough riding time.

Been extremely lucky.... with all of my chronic back issues, that I've been able to keep on riding at my whim. with no issues. Well maybe except for the first part of this week. I couldn't sit comfortably any where..... another time, maybe...

I started riding way back in 1973... bought my CL 350 honda brand new with a collection of "bean checks"... in Fairbury. And haven't looked back.

Even when I didn't own a bike, I was still riding time to time.... buddy here, friend there, test rides, etc. Long dry spell of owner ship, but I kept my taste buds active.

I've never been to much of a subscriber to motorcycle rags. ... have done a couple over the years. But now with www, i get more than enough info.

Obviously I'm a huge EH fan. And because of it, I've gained some notoriety here in the midwest, as "that guy".... I find that funny.

But to be real, I just love to ride. Even if its the same old route time after time. I do change it up, on a "whim". And I do like most of the time to ride "lone wolf". There are exceptions... where as I'll ask around to see if anyone wants to go... But I'll jump on my X in a second, just for the "ride".

What is it? Why is this so addicting? Well... for one, I know, I'm a weird one hard to follow, but once I'm on my favorite beast, I'm instantly in my younger 20's. That very first ride on my old 350 boils all back into my head, grinning ear to ear.

Nothing like a road trip.... out in western NebraXi..... oh lordie thats mystical and transforming.... such long lonely stretches of soft curves, no traffic, green fields of waves.

Some of it, I can't deny, is the attention side of it. Owning an X always draws someones attention. Usually somebody that knows a little bit about bikes, and can't figure out what this thing is. That is fun....

I can ride just a couple of miles, and come home with a very good attitude, and a smile.

It is dangerous, and I know it. But that's a part of my adrenaline addiction. I miss the days when there was no helmet law. There was nothing like it, so very hard to describe. So very hard to describe even with a helmet law. The NebraXi helmet law is going away January 1. I'll be a good boy, and wear it.... I've too may years of fire and rescue under my belt not to understand that it is a true injury preventer. But I'll admire those that will not.

Its also my best stress reliever. If I'm enduring a stressful situation... I'm looking for a quick chance to go ride. My back for instance, and all the unknown nuances attached to that situation. That has been a heavy load with unknowns what is going to affect me for the rest of my life. This week I was looking directly that I may not be able to ride anymore........ GAAAHHH!!!

My last surviving adrenaline rush. It'd be very hard at this time for me to give up riding. ... I do think about my age, and when will I give it up. I don't know....

I'm hoping when riding with someone, and they notice what ever, they tell me that I need to reevaluate....

I also need to plan ahead a bit... unknown how far ahead. ... but what is going to happen to my X when I quit riding? And I hope that when confronted I'm of the right mind. Not trying to be the guy who won't admit.....

My initial thoughts way back in the day was to give to Luke.... as he has never rode big bike much, nor was he a part of X world when we first got into it. But he has shown no interest at all. In fact I can tell, he'd like to own it, but he'd never ride it. At least not like I may feel it should be.... no no, not the storage of it, but enjoying riding it.

Jake and Josh both are previous X owners. Jake at this point doesn't have time to ride... I don't want it shoved off into a corner. Josh bitches about the windshield height (LOLOLOL). But his time is also a bit limited, with everything he has his toes in.

My latests has been towards my grandson Jack. He loves to ride... mostly dirt, but loves to ride. His other grandfather bought him a street/cruiser Husky thumper. I think he'd enjoy it, respect it and maybe even wrench on it as needed. I don't know that he'd sell it.

Being I wouldn't be around, I guess it doesn't matter. I may just leave it to the estate... and let them wrestle with all of that...

The old cliche of "if I have to explain it, you won't understand" .. is definitely a cliche, but its so true. How does a person describe the true joy of riding?

hopefully I've a few years left in me.... wish me good luck

[wytfut]

I didn't kno that I didn't kno

I got slammed verbally to the head by someone very close to me recently. Actually nothing new in that comment. But this person, really brought something to my attention.

Have been noticing many times growing older, that my opinions/views are becoming more and more narrow minded. Even bitter at times.

Are my ailments creating a monster? Am I comfortable with this "new" me? Shrugging my shoulders.... with no answer.

I'm not happy with this new discovery about myself. Although I have seen it many many times in the older generation. And have told myself that I'd never ever be this way....

And it happened anyway. .....

Suppose now I'll have to make conscious efforts to recognize this about myself and stifle it.

I promise to make the best efforts at doing so.... wish me luck!!

[wytfut]

Back issues... Chapter 198, episode 50

A few weeks ago, an old familiar back pain was showing up occasionally.

And as usual I ignored it, feeling that I'm probably going to have some sort of back pain the rest of my life... no shit Sherlock. This familiar back pain was recognized, as I found myself holding my breath while I'd do certain motions.... which in turn I'd be out of breath, doing daily mundane chores. NOT out of breath with in seconds, but doing something physical, and around the 10 minute mark, out of breath, holding my breath.

I discovered I did this last fall. I found that I hold my breath, or actually my abdominal muscles to support my back, to keep it from hurting. To keep it simple.... my stomach muscles acting like back muscles, to keep everything from hurting.

At 70 I know I'm going to be out of breath at times.... but I do work out 3 days a weeks "cardio" peddling on my vintage stationary bike, achieving anaerobic status for a set period of time. It doesn't hurt to peddle. I've been very happy with myself to be able to do this, to keep myself in some kind of shape, even if its bare minimal.

way off topic, and nobody cares...

Last week I was doing some weed eating. My most hated job, as from past history, created tons of back pain. But since injection last October, and surgery this past May..... all has been good, and painless, other than the heavy Whitefoot sweat.

No so last week. I couldn't finish the weed eating in one day, and had to finish the next day. The pain previous to the injection was back.... and at the same volume as the past.

Today I went and visited one of my back Dr.'s and he determined I have another site of issues (this makes 4 issues now).... He determined this by moving my legs in all sorts of positions, trying to make pain.

And now I'm back into PT, with a new PT, who specializes in Sacroiliac back issues. And I'm fine with that... 4-6 weeks twice a week. I just may call the PT and try to reschedule to until after Antique Motorcycle Cannonball after October 16....

But Dr. Diamont (god bless this man, I really like him, and the surgeon Dr. Gogelas), made me aware to the fact, that on this particular issue, I will be making a huge choice if it comes to it.

PT, if it fails.... makes me a good candidate for another injection site. Problem though..... successful injection at this site is not good. In fact less than 1/2.

If the injection fails then I have to decide if I wish to give fusion a shot. Fusion is not always successful. My Mother was living proof. PLUS, with my spine being curved makes the odds of fusion working even less. Another part of fusion on Bruce Whitefoot, and his decision to do so..... it could very well create other spine problems. ....

In other words, do I try fusion, knowing that it could be worse when I'm out of surgery. Or do I stop and just live with what pain I have to deal with right now.

I am 70... but with this pain, I'm limited in what I can do physically, more now than ever.

I can weed eat, but at much much smaller bits. Instead of all in one day. I'll be able to try and finish rat truck.... but at 30 minute "DAILY" increments. I'll be able to walk fair, but nothing longer than 100 yards. ..... you get the idea.... and all of this "FOR THE REST OF MY ACTIVE LIFE".

I won't be minus all of my most loved activities. I can still ride with no discomfort (TG!!). And I can tinker in the shop, on other bikes or short mechanical jobs on vehicles. (motocycles I can sit for most of it). 99.99% of time my back doesn't affect my sleep, or sitting.

In the back of my mind when all of my issues showed up, I accepted I may never be able to hike again. Most of the readers here, don't know this, nor know that I loved hiking in Colorado, and always did a "big" hike for a Nebraski flatlander. I haven't had a good hike in 5 years, and I'll be honest.... I miss it. I miss the "goal achieved" high.

I have this habit at times of second guessing myself more and more with age. And I know I do this. But not all animated or depressed about things out of my control.

We'll see what PT brings and then possibly an injection.... and worry about fusion when that time arrives. We are only human, and a person can't help of think about it here and there...

For all of you being patient with me and aches and pains... thanx