Thursday, December 22, 2005

Dec 23, Happy Holidays - Merry Christmas


For My Liberal Friends:

"Please accept with no obligation, implied or implicit, our best wishes for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low-stress, non-addictive, gender-neutral celebration of the winter solstice holiday, practiced within the most enjoyable traditions of the religious persuasion of your choice, or secular practices of your choice, with respect for the religious/secular persuasion and/or traditions of others, or their choice not to practice religious or secular traditions at all. We also wish you a fiscally successful, personally fulfilling and medically uncomplicated recognition of the onset of the generally accepted calendar year 2006, but not without due respect for the calendars of choice of other cultures whose contributions to society have helped make America great. Not to imply that America is necessarily greater than any other country nor the only America in the Western Hemisphere. And without regard to the race, creed, color, age, physical ability, religious faith or sexual preference of the wishee. By accepting these greetings you are accepting these terms. This greeting is subject to clarification or withdrawal. It is freely transferable with no alteration to the original greeting. It implies no promise by the wisher to actually implement any of the wishes for herself or himself or others, and is void where prohibited by law and is revocable at the sole discretion of the wisher. This wish is warranted to perform as expected within the usual application of good tidings for a period of one year or until the issuance of a subsequent holiday greeting, whichever comes first, and warranty is limited to replacement of this wish or issuance of a new wish at the sole discretion of the wisher."


For My Republican Conservative Friends:

Here's Wishing All of You a

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Saturday, December 10, 2005

Saturday, dec 10 - Why Men are Happier

What do you expect from such simple creatures?
  • Your last name stays put.
  • The garage is all yours.
  • Wedding plans take care of themselves.
  • Chocolate is just another snack.
  • You can never be pregnant.
  • You can wear a white T-shirt to a water park.
  • You can wear NO shirt to a water park.
  • Car mechanics tell you the truth.
  • The world is your urinal.
  • You never have to drive to another gas station restroom because this one is just too icky.
  • You don't have to stop and think of which way to turn a nut on a bolt.
  • Same work, more pay.
  • Wrinkles add character.
  • Wedding dress $5000.
  • Tux rental-$100.
  • The occasional well-rendered belch is practically expected.
  • New shoes don't cut, blister, or mangle your feet.
  • One mood all the time.
  • Phone conversations are over in 30 seconds flat.
  • You know stuff about tanks.
  • A five-day vacation requires only one suitcase.
  • You can open all your own jars.
  • You get extra credit for the slightest act of thoughtfulness.
  • If someone forgets to invite you, he or she can still be your friend.
  • Your underwear is $8.95 for a three-pack.
  • Three pairs of shoes are more than enough.
  • You almost never have strap problems in public.
  • You are unable to see wrinkles in your clothes.
  • Everything on your face stays its original color.
  • The same hairstyle lasts for years, maybe decades.
  • You only have to shave your face and neck.
  • You can play with toys all your life.
  • Your belly usually hides your big hips.
  • One wallet and one pair of shoes one color for all seasons.
  • You can wear shorts no matter how your legs look.
  • You can "do" your nails with a pocket knife.
  • You have freedom of choice concerning growing a mustache.
  • You can do Christmas shopping for 25 relatives on December 24 in 25 minutes.
No wonder men are happier.

Friday, December 09, 2005

Friday, Dec 9 - Update

As always, winter starts to get very busy around the Mansfield house. So here's a fast recap:

Alex has switched to contacts. So far it is going very well. It's great that a 5th grade can master the daily hassle of contact lenes. But he is determined not to wear his glasses anymore.

Jon had his band concert last week. A really good performance. Alex has his orchestra concert next week.

The Mansfield Christmas Letter went out by email this week. If you didn't get your copy, send me an email!

Thursday, November 24, 2005

Thursday, Nov 24 - Turkey Trot


Happy Thanksgiving!

We're having a quiet Turkey Day at the Mansfields today. We'll have dinner late afternoon and dessert after that. We've been invited to a couple of places and we may yet still have some family drop by. But this will be our quiet, family year.

To work off the 3,000 calories, I again entered the Chesterfield Turkey Trot 5k race this morning. I even talked another family into joining me for the new annual adventure. Fortunately, it was dry and clear (unlike last year when it snowed and iced the night before leaving the ground treacherous). There was a slight breeze and it was chilly with temps in the low 30s. But who cares when you are running with 1,500 other people all at the same time?

My first two miles were really good time but I faltered in the last hal-mile with a side cramp. ;-( Came in with a 9:17 pace (placing 739 out of 1566 overall and 67th in the men's 40-45 age group). Oh well, there's always next year.

Full race results are here,

http://www.fleetfeetstl.com/race_results/TURKEY_TROT_5K_2005_OA.HTM

Saturday, November 19, 2005

Saturday, Nov 19 - Starving Artist


Google has released a newtool called Google Base (http://base.google.com).

It's their new tool to allow users to upload information that is not currently online and searchable. It will be many things to different people.

For example, it will compete with classified ads. It will compete with Craig's List. And blogs. And perhaps most interesting, it will compete with Ebay.

So, I decided to test the site with this print for sale. I also posted Alex's Snickerdoodle recipe.

Saturday, November 12, 2005

Friday, November 11 - Beary Good


Friday was a holiday for all of us. It was surprisingly still warm (high of 72 degrees) so we headed off to the St Louis Zoo.

We're there so often that we often overlook some sights from time to time. So we ventured to a couple areas off the beaten path. We found this black bear resting. A few more zoo adventure photos are on the flickr site

On our trek downtown, we ventured over to Union Station. The holiday decorations are not up yet and I'm surprised at how many shops have closed. Since we were last there in early summer, we've noticed several major stores gone: KC MasterPiece, The Disney Store and even the John Pills store. Perhaps the high priced parking, roving gangs of youths, and lack of entertainment has finally taken its toll.

We also made a mad-dash over the AB brewery. Tours were over for the day but Alex and I ran in to the museum and gift shop. Alex defintely did not like the smell of brewing rice, hops and barley. I doubt that he'll be buying me that "Brew Beer" at home kit I wanted. ;-(

Finally, we stopped in for Shabbat dinner with our friends Dan and Cheri.

Sunday, November 06, 2005

Sunday, Nov 7 - My Friend Flicrk


You may have already read that I post pictures on my flickr photo site. I uploaded a few more recent photos. They can be seen at:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/rjmans/

Saturday, November 05, 2005

Saturday, Nov 5 - Snickerdoodle


Alex's fifth grade class is putting together a class cookbook. Each student was asked to submit a favorite family recipe and to write why it's his favorite. Here is Alex's:

I like Snickerdoodle cookies because they remind me of good times with my mom. I like them because they are fun to make. And they taste great and are still good after a few days.

Alex Mansfield’s

“My Mom’s Best Snickerdoodle” Recipe

  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar, plus 3 tablespoons
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Sift the flour, baking soda, and salt into a bowl.

With a handheld or standing mixer, beat together the shortening and butter. Add the 1 1/2 cups sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add the eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the flour mixture and blend until smooth.

Mix the 3 tablespoons sugar with the cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll the dough, by hand, into 1 1/2-inch balls. Roll the balls in the cinnamon sugar. Flatten the balls into 1/2-inch thick disks, spacing them evenly on unlined cookie sheets. Bake until light brown, but still moist in the center, about 12 minutes. Cool on a rack.

Thursday, November 03, 2005

Thursday - Google Print Brings Up the Past

Google unveiled today their ambitious effort to digitize printed books at www.print.google.com. You may have read about their effort to scan and create an index of books available in major college libraries. Well, the Publishing and Writer associations weren't too happy about this copyright issue and will most likely tie up the copyright issue for a while.

But Google today made their index available for books which they have permission or which the copright has expired.

I found I was listed in a contact directory froma job I had 20+ years ago. I kinda enjoyed working in South El Monte back then...

Here's the link.

Monday, October 31, 2005

Monday, Oct 31 - Halloween Dud


The lights are on. The candy is ready. The costume bought. But not this year.

This is the year that Halloween that wasn't.

It's cold and rainy. I doubt we'll have even 1 trick or treater tonight.

Alex and I did get out to the pumpkin farm this past weekend and bought two big pumpkins. I found a pattern for SpongeBob and Alex made a face pattern of his own design.

Jon wanted nothing to do with our family outing. So he just stayed home. I reminded him that the "Great Pumpkin" would remember this and pass him and not bring him him any toys and candy this year.

Fortunately, Alex's school hasn't fallen into the anti-halloween trap (too much). So they did have a chance to have a "Fall" party last Friday and to parade around school in their costumes.

(Update: We had about a dozen kids from 6-9 pm. Jon and Alex did make the neighborhood and came home with a couple pounds of dental-decaying goodies.)

Saturday, October 22, 2005

Friday, 10/21 - Portraits

It's no longer "picture" day at school. No, it's "portraits". I can imagine that my sons are CEOs, generals or Presidents of the United States. They have their "portraits" taken at school.

In case, it's an annual ritual. Hair cut. Check. New clothes. Check. Brushed teeth, hair and washed. Whether needed or desired. Check. Don't bring home a stupid grin photos. Priceless.














Friday, October 14, 2005

Friday, Oct 14 - Memories


Over the past few days I've heard many family and friends who remembered, of all things, our anniversary.

The boys and I went to dinner Wednesday night. they usually came along for our anniversary dinners anyway. And I got around to taking one of Kathy's favorite office photos into my office at work.

It's bittersweet. It's always hard to look forward when there's so many memories.

Tuesday, October 11, 2005

Wednesday, October 12 - Anniversary


Where does the time go? Today marks 14 years. It really does seem just like yesterday.

Last year, I foolishely brought out the wedding video tapes. I won't make that mistake for some time. They have been put back into the vault. Maybe in a couple of years they can come out again.

Until then, here's a snapshot of us from October 12 1991.

Tuesday, Oct 11 - A Dino Named Sue


I finally got around to posting some pics of our trip to Chicago this summer on the rjmans flickr account. Click here to see more: http://www.flickr.com/photos/rjmans/

Monday, October 10, 2005

Monday, Oct 10 - Something for Nothing



Every once in a while, there is a dramatic change in the computer industry. Certainly, the arrival of the Mosaic browser in the early 90's was a harbinger of the power of the Internet for millions around the world.

Another glimpse of something powerful happening is the open source software movement. Rather than using proprietary, company owned software, programmers are working together to create free software. It's not shareware, or adware or malware. It's really useful software that conforms to open standards. And its free to download.

The most well known project to date is the Linux operating system. Although it's taken hold many places, it's still pretty technical for the average user. The Firefox browser is another good example.

But a more useful--and more powerful new example-- is the OpenOffice software suite. It's available for free download at http://www.openoffice.org for a number of computer platforms. It includes word processor, spreadsheet, presentation, drawing and database components. It really rivals the $500+ Microsoft Office package (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). And OpenOffice can read and write in the Microsoft formats. I've been using it and have grown to really like it.

So, if you have a PC that needs more powerful software, it's worth your time to look to the OpenOffice suite. I'm sure we'll all hear more about it in the months and years to come.

Sunday, October 09, 2005

Friday, Oct 7 - What's Rodger Listening To?


What's Rodger Listening to....A sneak peak on my mp3 play list.

Most of you know that I grew up in SoCal heavily influenced by the Hispanic culture. Most of the Latin music I listen to does not appeal to a mainstream American audience. But now and then there's an artist who should be heard by the American listening public.

So I think that of you might find Juanes someone worth learning about. You probably haven't heard of him---he does not normally sing in English. And thus, unlike Ricky Martin and other Latin cross-over artists, does not get airtime on the major US news/entertainment shows. But across the globe, Juanes is a major star.


Born in Colombia, he is a "balladeer" singer. He is best known for his solo guitar playing and cleaver lyrics. His latest album, "Mi Sangre" with its hit song "La Camisa Negra" is a world-wide success. This song, of all things, was banned in the Dominican Republic. Apparently, they didn't find his lyrics clever enough.

Jon know most of his songs down pat. A few of his friend at school are amazed that he knows Juanes since they listen to him too.

Juanes Website

Amazon.com's Mi Sangre page (with song samples)

Monday, October 03, 2005

Monday Oct 3 - Amazing

I had heard the ad on the radio for several weeks. And I really did mean to get online and reserve some tickets. But time got away from (again). Why does that always happen?

I suppose not having access to my personal scheduling secretary is just a fact of life. Mrs. Wiggins always got me the best tickets. I'll just have to get used to it. But it really stinks.

So I was very happy to get a call from friends who just happened to have three extra Fox Club-level box tickets for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat that was playing at the Fabulous Fox Theatre this past weekend.

The boys and I went and had a great time. Kathy had taken both of them to see it several times before. But never quite like this. And they were excited to see their friends there too. And the table service. And the warm roasted nuts. And the mints in the Fox Club restrooms. Oh, they liked the show too.

I'm glad that Kathy and I had many opportunities to go to the Fox, David Copperfield, Beauty and the Beast, Lion King, Peter, Paul and Mary.

She would have liked Joseph too.

Friday, September 30, 2005

Sept 30 - Your 15 Minutes Are Over

[I was surprised to learn that I could agree with a liberal democrat every now and then. I found this article very interesting and thought worth sharing- Rodger]
Speak up America! Sheehan has spent her sympathy
By Ed Koch

Cindy Sheehan, whose son Casey was killed in action in Iraq on April 4, 2004, has become the face of the anti-war movement in the United States. While her grief is understandable, her rhetoric is outrageous.

As the mother of a son killed in battle in Iraq, she originally struck a sympathetic chord, whether you supported the war in Iraq or opposed it. One cannot help but empathize with the agony of a bereaved mother. But that has changed over the months, and I believe that many Americans who viewed her with sympathy no longer do so.

Many Americans, myself included, now see her as a person who has come to enjoy the celebratory status accorded to her by the radicals on the extreme left who see America as the outlaw of the world. These radicals are not content to be constructive critics. They are bent on destroying this country. Read More

Wednesday, September 21, 2005

Wednesday, Sept 21 - Blogs of Note

For many of you, this site (or the Kathy Report) may have been your first encounter with a web blog (or at least that's what many of you told me). But there have been many going on for years---not just in the currnet format.

The Dad Needs a Dependant


In the mid-90's, my friend Lowell johnson and I learned about web pages and had our personal sites running with what we'd call a "Blog" now. Times have changed but he's still writing, usually several times a week. He reprinted one this past week that I thought was pretty funny so here it is:

http://maxjohnson.blogspot.com/2005/09/dad-needs-dependent.html








Life is Good


OK, so Wil Wheaton isn't a personal friend. But he's had a serious blog running for several years. You have to appreciate an actor (Stand by Me, Star Trek) who now writes software, manages websites, writes and still shows up on TV, radio and video games every now and then. He's been in funk lately (aren't we all?) and had a moment of reflection:

http://www.wilwheaton.net/mt/archives/003379.php#003379

How Do I Start My Own Blog?

Interested in creating a web site but don't want the hassle of learning html? Then start a blog. An easy way to start is at http://www.blogger.com Don't forget to send me a link.

Sunday, September 18, 2005

Sunday, Sept 18 - Birthday Weekend

Six years ago this weekend, Kathy and her sister Barb celebrated their 40th and 60th birthdays.

We had a great party out at Dave and Busters in Earth City. Just like the Clampett's, we ate on the covered pool tables and played games for the night.

As a special touch, we had the bakery who baked our wedding cake do the birthday cake. This time, Kathy and I both had an opportunity to have some cake.

This weekend, to a smaller degree, we did a similar outing for Barb and Alex who turns 11 this week. Food, fun and games.

Where does the time go?

Saturday, September 17, 2005

Friday, Sept 16 - Net Reference



The internet has become an integral part of everydat life for many people. However, making sense of it all is often a challenge. Here's my tip of the day for where to start when searching for information, The New York Times Newsroom Navigator.

http://tech.nytimes.com/top/news/technology/cybertimesnavigator/index.html

Friday, September 09, 2005

Friday, Sept 9 - Band Geek


Jon continues to play in the 8th grade band in middle school. He usually plays the French Horn but for the joint concert at the high school football game, he played the mellophone. Yes, I had to ask why too -- the mellophone sound projects forwards rather than to the side (and apprently it's in a different octave as well).

Click the image for a large view.

Monday, September 05, 2005

Sunday Sept 5 - Flickr Photos

Although I haven't put much effort into it, I've started an account on the flickr photo site with some photos around the house. Mostly flowers the boys and I planted this spring. Kathy would have enjoyed them.

Check out my photo account. As I get more time, I'll get them more organized, tagged and perhaps, even a bit better compositions and subjects.




http://www.flickr.com/photos/rjmans/

Friday, September 02, 2005

Monday, August 29, 2005

Monday, August 29 - A New Home

I still have a few more projects, but here are two photos of the house.

















Friday, August 26, 2005

Friday August 26 - Tornado? or Home Improvement?

After too much delay, I finally started some major home repair projects.

First up was a new roof. That seemed to go pretty good.

Next up came the siding. Good company. Good product. Good price.

Then came the installers. I knew this was going to be different when I saw siding materials sliding down my new roof crashing onto my newly planted preimum mums in my front yard when I came home Wednesday night.

This is what greeted me Thursday night. Fortunately, I had to go to school and came back in the dark so I didn't have to look at this mess.

Friday the siding was completed but there's still debris left in the back yard. House looks good tho. Mums do not.

Gutters are still on order (where? from Uzbekistan?) .

Wednesday, August 24, 2005

Wednesday Aug 24 - Google Talk





Google has released a new open-standards messaging service. It's available at talk.google.com

You'll need a gmail username and password. If you need an invite for that, just let me know.

Like the other message services, gtalk offers text messaging as well as audio. To add me to your contacts, I'm at rjmans (at) gmail.com I also usually have MSN on as well: rjmans (at) hotmail.com

Wednesday, August 17, 2005

Wednesday, August 17 - Wood Badge

















Last year, I enrolled in the Wood Badge adult leadership training with BSA. It was 6 days of outdoor fun, learning and adventure. I have been working on several projects and we're coming down to the final stretch. I plan to have everything wrapped up in the coming weeks so I can earn the final recognition.

I will always be greatful to Kathleen for allowing me the time while she was hospitalized to take this training opportunity.

More information on BSA Wood Badge can be found here: http://www.woodbadge.org


Thursday, August 11, 2005

Aug 11, Groundhogs Day

Maybe you've seen the movie, "Groundhogs Day".

I feel like I'm living it.

After one year, now I'm repeating the same thing. End of summer. School shopping. First Day of school. Labor Day. Holidays. Spring break. Summer. End of Summer.

Or maybe I'm just a rat on a wheel.

Tuesday, August 02, 2005

Aug 2 - Going Swimming?















Jon is trying to stay dry this summer! He's front right in the photo. Jon spent a couple of days in SC rafting with his scout troop.

Sunday, July 24, 2005

July 24 - Windy City


Didn't really know what to do this summer for a family vacation. We had taken a big trip in the spring. And airfare seems to be higher than usual this summer. And the weather forecast showed everything wet to our west and south.

So we headed off to downtown Chicago.

We stayed downtown at Michigan and Ontario right in the magnificent mile district. Went to the Navy Pier, Children's museum, the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, the John Hancock Building (twice, once during the day and again at night) and finally, the Museum of Science and Industry.

Plus we found the LEGO store and made some time for ESPN zone and the Rainforest Cafe.

Now we can get ready for school. Only three weeks away.

Sunday, July 17, 2005

July 17 - Scattered

This past week has been very busy. For the first time, all three of us were somewhere else and apart.

I was in Washington D.C. Too busy but it as a good work week.

Jon was at S-F for NYLT - National Youth Leadership Training. Nothing beats a week camping and learning about project planning, communicating, defining visions, mission and setting goals! And with Hurricane Dennis reaching up into Missouri, doing this all outside in the rain was a challenge.

And Alex was at the Boy Scout Beaumont ranch for his summer camp. It rained a lot. The food was different. He had to walk everywhere. It was hot.

Sounds like summer camp was just right!

Saturday, July 09, 2005

Friday 7/8/05 - One Year Later


It's hard to believe that it's been one year. At times, it seems like yesterday. At other times, it seems like an eternity.

We knew we hadto do something to mark the day. But what?

So, we met Barb and Frank for lunch down in The Hill. Kathy always liked going there for lunch.

And then off to the Botanical Garden. It was Kathy and my first date. And over the years, we took the family there as often as possible.

It was hot Friday but we had a good time. Lots of flowers out in bloom. And we fed the fish and ducks too. Plus a stop for some drinks and ice cream.

Maybe it's what we'll do next year too.

Monday, July 04, 2005

Monday 7/4 - A Capitol Affair


5 years ago we took for Washington DC for the Fourth of July.

The last time Kathy had been in DC, she was a starving graduate student working an internship with the Department of Justice.

So we joined the masses on the mall and watched the evening of entertainment as well as the fireworks.

It was certainly one of our best vacations ever.

Thursday, June 23, 2005

Thursday 6/23 - FishCam

The boys and I bought a new fish tank last week. So we now have the Mansfield FishCam:

http://home.swbell.net/rjmans/

The picture updates every 10 minutes.


Thursday, May 19, 2005

Thursday May 19 - School Daze

The past week has been filled with activity. Last weekend, Jon was at Scout Camporee. Alex and I also camped--but on the other side of the scount ranch as part of his cub scout year-end graduation event. some hiking, playing plus BBQ and smores.

Last week, Alex had his 4th grade orchestra concert. He still plays the viola.

This week, Jon had his 7th grade junior band concert. Jon is number 1 chair for French Horn.

Finally, today was Fishing Day for Alex. the entire 4th grade class headed off to Kirkwood Park to fish, play games and make tie-dye t-shorts. this is an annual school event for the 4th grade. the alst two yeas have been rained out--and the weather forecast was T-storms predicated for today. But it turned out to be a great day with a high of 89 and no rain.

Wednesday, May 18, 2005

May Flowers

Last year Kathy started several projects. one was removing the bushes in front of our house and buying new ones palced on the other side of the walk.

Unfortunately, she went into the hospital before the project was completed. the area where the bushes had been became a big empty hole. I did plant a few flowers last fall. But the frost killed them all off finally. And I forgot to move Kathy's 15 years worth of flowers in from the porch in time so they were all goners too.

So, after at least 6 trips to Lowes, we now have a few new flowers, bird baths, bird feeders, Malibu lights and plants in the front yard. I counted at least 200. Alex and Jon are helping to keep them watered every day,

Kathy would approve.

Sunday, May 08, 2005

May - Mothers Day

Mother's Day has come and gone. Another key date we dreaded dearly.

We went to the park, had a picnic lunch and played for a bit.

But we did not really enjoy the day.

Saturday, April 30, 2005

April Recap

Sorry for the long delay. But Some of March, and most of April got away from us. So I'll try to fill in the details. As you know, I'm very careful not to put too much "real time" information out on the public net.

Here's just some random things that have gone on over the past few months:

- In February, I caught a bad bug/virus/pneumonia/something. Of course, without my house doctor here to guide me everyday, I did the man thing and tried to ignore it. Didn't feel right for over a month. Also learned that when one is really sick, call for help. Otherwise, the kids and animals have to fend for themselves for a weekend.

March continued the bad trend of winter. I was in DC for a couple of days on work. I did have a chance to see my college friends Joe and Mike while there. Even hung out at my favorite DC dive, the Tune Inn. Thanks to Barb for staying with the boys.

This was a long winter and we were wearing out pretty quickly. Plus, Easter was early this year and I had to decide what to do for the boys for their break. For Easter, we went to Pierre Marquette for the weekend. Kathy and I had done this a few years ago and it was a real winner. Boys got to swim, we explored Illinois, the lodge had egg dying and an egg hunt. Plus we had a nice Easter brunch that someone else made and cleaned up.

After we came back, we then headed to Los Angeles for a few days. The boys were great travelers. We had to be up early at 4 to catch our flight and we went via Salt Lake City. But by the afternoon, we were swimming in the outdoor pool in Buena Park. We had a great chance to see family and friends. Went to Disneyland for a day and joined the Elwell's for a day at Knott's Berry Farm. Then we spent a day at Santa Monica Pier and Malibu. Perfect weather--80s. Plus we had time to spend with my cousin Nat and her family in Venice at the beach. This trip was similar to one we had taken in 03. As usual, it was full of bittersweet memories. Of things that were and things that never will be again.

Will write more soon.

Saturday, March 19, 2005

Saturday 3/19 - Travels

It's been another long week at the Mansfields. I was in Washington DC for a couple of days on business. Went to the National Press Club (Ag Secty Johanns was the main speaker). Sat next to Senator Talent on the way home. Talked a bit about about the baseball steroid testimony. He doesn't think this will go away soon.

Fortunately, Kathy's sister stepped in and stayed with the boys. This is extra duty and I hope they come to appreciate her kindness as much as I do. But that may take a long time for them. A little rough around the edges while I was gone. But it all seemed to have worked.

We have yet another busy day today. Cub scouts, visits to friends, a church musical to attend. Life just keeps on going.

But as always, we pause just a bit to remember what was and what might have been.

Saturday, March 12, 2005

Saturday 3/12 - Longest week

Whew. It's been a long long week.

Work is as frenzied as ever. As many of you know, we've hard a tremendous amount of change at my job. Although it's not difficult work, it's more challenging when there's so many new people around, new responsibilities and a higher-level of stress.

And of course, I'm still sick. I have been since before my week in Austin TX. Although it's getting better, I still have the "hack". Alex also became sick this week so that presented more challenges. Somehow, Jon has escaped it all.

Speaking of which, Jon turns 13 today. We went out for pizza last night and some frozen concretes at Fritz's Frozen Custard. He's taking some friends out to Dave and Busters today. I'll just try to stay out of the way. ;-)

I have some more travel coming up soon. And I'm planning a break for the boys and me. We gotta get out of here. Stay tuned.

Sunday, March 06, 2005

Saturday 3/5 - Respite

You may have wondered why the lack of posts over the past month. Several things conspired to keep me from my appointed rounds. First, I caught the flu that wiped me out. And before I was really better, I spent a week in Austin TX working. And then right back to work. So this weekend is my first real rest of three weeks.

What About the Boys?

I had first planned to leave some food out for them. But I reconsidered and kathy's sister came and spent the week. I think they all got along pretty well. Just a few rough edges now and then.

I'm glad to be back. And the weather is getting better (at least for today) so we plan to get out and spend some quality time.

Wednesday, February 16, 2005

Wednesday 2/16 - Vday Recap

As many of you know, Vday was extra difficult this year. As it is my birthday too, we also had this as a family weekend.

So Barb and the boys and I headed off to Dave and Buster for a party. Lots of food and tickets later, we think we had a pretty good time.

On Sunday, Kathy's cousin Carolyn hosted a Sunday night dinner for us as well.

It's yet another milestone to pass this year.

Saturday, February 12, 2005

Saturday 2/12 - The Widower

For a season there must be pain -
For a little, little space
I shall lose the sight of her face,
Take back the old life again
While She is at rest in the place.

For a season this pain must endure,
For a little, little while
I shall sigh more often than smile
Till Time shall work me a cure,
And the pitiful days beguile.

For that season we must be apart,
For a little length of years,
Till my life's last hour nears,
And, above the beat of my heart,
I hear Her voice in my ears.

But I shall not understand -
Being set on some later love,
Shall not know her for whom I strove,
Till she reach me forth her hand,
Saying, "Who but I have the right?"
And out of a troubled night
Shall draw me safe to the land.

-- Rudyard Kipling

Wednesday, February 09, 2005

Wednesday 2/9 - Pictures are Priceless

One of the best things that we have are memories. I'm so glad that kathy and I were early on the digital camera trend. We have hundreds of photos from the past 5 years.

But every success brings a new issue. How to manage them all?

Our good friends at Google have brought us yet again another free tool: Picasa

This free download will scan your photos on your PC and organize them into albums. You can make simple edits to the photos (rotate, remove red-eye, lighten/darken, etc).

definitely worth your time to check this out.



Friday, February 04, 2005

Friday 2/4 - The Way Things Are

This week certainly has proved to be more frustrating than most. I must have been very bad in some former life for everthing to come vrashing around me. But I suppose that's just how things are at times.

Although nothing was really big, all the little things can just build up. Wouldn't you know that on a day that was already stressful with a tight series of evening events that: 1) Alex would have a school issue requiring attention at school and home 2) Jon wound up in the wrong place at the wrong time at school 3) I had a flat as I was about to leave work. So just to add to everything, Alex lost two teeth this week (a painful process), Jon was sick one day and now I'm not feeling so great either.

But today is Friday. Just one more day and then some time on the weekend.




Saturday, January 22, 2005

Saturday 1/22 - Questions Part II

Some more answers to real-life questions

What's been the hardest part?

What's most distressing is that losing a spouse poses a number of problems all at once. First the process of death just causes a lot of stress and weariness. Then realizing that I still have the boys to raise alone. And then the realization of the loss of your spouse. All of these have been very hard.

What do you plan to do?

Under different circumstances, I would have packed up and headed home to Los Angeles. My life here in STL being an interesting diversion. But alas, it is not to be. Too many complications at the moment. So we're going to stay put for some time. Kathy and I had hoped that she'd at least make it to their college days, or at least until they graduated high school. We have enough issues at the moment so reducing some stress from a move, even a clsoe one, will mean a lot to the boys. But as they move up in school, we'll have a wider range of housing options to choose from.

What about you?

There's little time left at the end of the day. But I do squeeze some things in when I can. I try to run in the mornings when it's above 32 degrees. And I often work out at lunch. But for right now, I am in hibernation for about anything else.






Saturday, January 15, 2005

Saturday 1/15 - WWDN and FARK

I've heard from many of you over the past 8 months that my "blogs" were the first time you heard about this new term. 2004 was the year of blogs and the term was picked as the "Word of the Year".

But the first blog that I started reading comes from an unusual source. You may recall that Wil Wheaton portrayed played Wesley Crusher on "Star Trek: The Next Generation". He was the annoying kid who always seemed to save the day (and the Enterprise and crew) in the last 15 seconds of the show. He was universally disliked by the fans and apprently at times was too much for the actors, writers and producers on the set. So just what does an out of work typecasted, actor do when the show ends and the rent is due? Learn Linux, build a website and write a blog! He's built a little empire as a geek and has an interesting website at www.wilwheaton.net (Just remember WWDN-- Wil Wheaton Dot Net)

Although not a blog, another popular site I visit (in my spare time) is FARK, www.fark.com At times, it can be a bit rough, but there's usually a warning (NSFW-Not Safe For Work) posted on entries best not read when the children are around. The site lists user-sumbitted news stories from around the world that are unusual. it's jsut like reading the St. Louis Post_dispatch. Except its free, informative, interesting and sometimes useful. The Photoshop contests are good examples of the skills of photo manipualtions. And if the boss catches you reading this site, just use the "I was only looking at the pictures". That should work.







Wednesday, January 12, 2005

Wednesday 1/12 - Questions, Part 1

Q: How are you doing?

We're doing the best we can. We've made it six months but I think we still have another six months before things get a bit better. We're in the middle of the race at this point.

It's now the day to day things of real life that we have to face. Laundry, clothes, cooking, and homework all seem to be a major focus around the house each day. But that's normal.

Q: How are the boys doing in school?

Both boys have had some adjustments to make this year. And there have been some bumps. But by and large, things are improving. Both did well the first trimester. As a reward, Alex received a gecko which he promptly named "El Nopal". So now our weekends also include buying live crickets for yet another mouth to feed at the house. Fortunately, Jon was easier to please and now has an XBox and Halo2. Things appear on track on track for another good trimester.

Q: Is everything back to normal?

It's clear that we'll never be back to our old normal. As time passes, we are making our new memories. But we'll always have the memory of Kathleen with us,

Q: How is work?

After some staff reorganizations this past summer, I took on new responsibilities. In a perfect world, I would have done this. But I've learned that we don't live in a perfect world anyway. So, I have some new challenges. So far, so good.

Saturday, January 08, 2005

Saturday 1/8 - Counting the Days

July 8 - January 8
6 Months
26 Weeks
182 Days
4,368 Hours
262,080 Minutes
15,724,800 Seconds

Thursday, January 06, 2005

Thursday 1/6 - MS Windows AntiSpyware

You've probably already heard about spyware. That nasty software that causes your PC to run slow, redirect to porn websites, show popup advertisements that never close and change your default home page on your browser.

Well after selling the barn with the door always open, Microsoft has now made a free spyare prevention and removal tool available on its website. This is a free tool now and MS may charge for it in the future. Although there are other versions that work well and are also Free, this one may be worth the time to download to determine if there is other spyware installed on your PC:

Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware

Saturday, January 01, 2005

Saturday 1/1 - A New Year

2005 is upon us. Hopefully, a better year for the Mansfields. We plan to put a lot behind us.

Since Christmas, we've had some more activities. Last night, we went tot he Keatings for New Years. Way past our bedtime but we enjoyed having dinner and the boys did too.

Also, our friends Bill and Teresa came to visit. They are also Alex's Godparents. We went down to the City Museum. It's always fun to take your life into your hands at the scariest museum in America. fortunately, no one was injured, maimed or mauled while we were there.

Looking forward to the new year!