The photos below are from my recent trip to Niger, Africa. I am leaving out captions. You can see that my primary focus was the people.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Friday, July 24, 2009
Niger -- Opportunity or Exploitation?
Niger is a landlocked country on the African continent slightly less than twice the size of Texas. Its economy is based primarily on agriculture but the country has mineral assets consisting of uranium, coal, iron ore, tin, phosphates, gold, molybdenum, gypsum, salt and petroleum. Only 11.43% of the land is arable. It is predominately desert (Sahara).
It is one of the hottest countries on earth. It is also one of the poorest.
The male life expectancy is 51.39 years. Female is 53.85 years.
Infant mortality is 116.66/1,000. 5th worst in the world.
CIA ranks risk of major diseases as very high.
The country has a 28.7% literacy rate.
The country is currently in a political crisis. The President, Mamadou Tanja, is seeking to extend his term as President. He is limited by the constitution, but recently fired all cabinet and elected officials and called a Constitutional Convention to change the constitution to allow additional terms in office. The people seem to support him in this. The Convention has until August 4th to come up with a new Constitution.
The country is one of the poorest in the world.
It is being slowly invaded by China who has its eye on the uranium deposits -- some of the largest in the world.
When I flew into the country a few weeks ago, I would estimate there were at least 30 Chinese mining engineers on the flight with me. Locals told me that such events were commonplace.
I saw Chinese made tractors in the hands of at least one regional governor. Hmmmm.
The U.S. had better step up quickly or the Chinese will control the minerals of this poor and desperate country.
What better way for a political leader seeking to extend his power than to provide gifts to the poor of his country -- gifts that cost him nothing (tractors) yet are signs of an attempt to influence the bidding of contracts for the few resources the country has that have significant value on the world market.
It is one of the hottest countries on earth. It is also one of the poorest.
The male life expectancy is 51.39 years. Female is 53.85 years.
Infant mortality is 116.66/1,000. 5th worst in the world.
CIA ranks risk of major diseases as very high.
The country has a 28.7% literacy rate.
The country is currently in a political crisis. The President, Mamadou Tanja, is seeking to extend his term as President. He is limited by the constitution, but recently fired all cabinet and elected officials and called a Constitutional Convention to change the constitution to allow additional terms in office. The people seem to support him in this. The Convention has until August 4th to come up with a new Constitution.
The country is one of the poorest in the world.
It is being slowly invaded by China who has its eye on the uranium deposits -- some of the largest in the world.
When I flew into the country a few weeks ago, I would estimate there were at least 30 Chinese mining engineers on the flight with me. Locals told me that such events were commonplace.
I saw Chinese made tractors in the hands of at least one regional governor. Hmmmm.
The U.S. had better step up quickly or the Chinese will control the minerals of this poor and desperate country.
What better way for a political leader seeking to extend his power than to provide gifts to the poor of his country -- gifts that cost him nothing (tractors) yet are signs of an attempt to influence the bidding of contracts for the few resources the country has that have significant value on the world market.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
You Ask About My Trip
I wrote 38 pages in my journal about the trip....
It only scratched the surface.
I have almost 600 photos on my camera....
I rarely had it with me.
I felt at home there....
I have often felt like a stranger in a strange land here.
Church there is fresh and alive and lasts for hours....
I've been struggling with church here.
Fresh, clean water is a luxury there....
I took a long, hot, indulgent shower here.
Community is everything there....
I don't even know all of my neighbors here.
Obtaining the next meal is the daily focus there....
I threw away half my fries from my Big Mac meal at lunch.
Signs of sickness and disease were on every happy face there....
We gripe and complain about the cost of health care here.
It took an hour to baptize 5 new believers there....
We rush through a meaningless? baptism in minutes.
Yesterday, I was on another continent -- it might have been another world....
Today, I fell into my ruts as though I had never left.
Help me, Father! This can't be right.
(More to come.)
It only scratched the surface.
I have almost 600 photos on my camera....
I rarely had it with me.
I felt at home there....
I have often felt like a stranger in a strange land here.
Church there is fresh and alive and lasts for hours....
I've been struggling with church here.
Fresh, clean water is a luxury there....
I took a long, hot, indulgent shower here.
Community is everything there....
I don't even know all of my neighbors here.
Obtaining the next meal is the daily focus there....
I threw away half my fries from my Big Mac meal at lunch.
Signs of sickness and disease were on every happy face there....
We gripe and complain about the cost of health care here.
It took an hour to baptize 5 new believers there....
We rush through a meaningless? baptism in minutes.
Yesterday, I was on another continent -- it might have been another world....
Today, I fell into my ruts as though I had never left.
Help me, Father! This can't be right.
(More to come.)
Monday, July 6, 2009
Once in a Lifetime?
Today I leave on a trip that for me, is probably the trip of a lifetime. I am headed to Africa.
There is a group of us. I'm the old man in the bunch. It is mostly college students.
We will be traveling to a country in West Africa where the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention has a mission. The trip is in support of that mission effort to reach a people group that is among the poorest in the world and in a country that is also one of the poorest in the world.
Where we will be traveling is located in the zone between the Sahara desert and the tropics. It is an area referred to as the Sahel. The expected temperature upon arrival in the capital city is 100 with a 100% chance of rain. The heat index will be 107.
It is not a vacation, however, we do get to spend about 1 1/2 days in London on the way there. A little sightseeing is planned.
I hope to be able to post an account of the trip on my return. All will be quiet on the blog until after the 21st.
There is a group of us. I'm the old man in the bunch. It is mostly college students.
We will be traveling to a country in West Africa where the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention has a mission. The trip is in support of that mission effort to reach a people group that is among the poorest in the world and in a country that is also one of the poorest in the world.
Where we will be traveling is located in the zone between the Sahara desert and the tropics. It is an area referred to as the Sahel. The expected temperature upon arrival in the capital city is 100 with a 100% chance of rain. The heat index will be 107.
It is not a vacation, however, we do get to spend about 1 1/2 days in London on the way there. A little sightseeing is planned.
I hope to be able to post an account of the trip on my return. All will be quiet on the blog until after the 21st.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
On This 4th of July
On July 4, 1776, we declared our independence from Great Britain. We claimed the right to self-governance with representation of the people's will in determination of the laws of our land. We claimed the right to reject an oppressive government and replace it with one that was both responsive to and responsible to the people of this land.
That oppression arose from our dependency on Great Britain. The original colonists needed the support of the mother country for survival. In return, the king required taxes. Those taxes paid for wars that caused a mounting debt. The response of the king was to increase taxes to finance his aggressive policies that sought to consolidate his power.
The people sought relief from the burden but were ignored. They sought representation of their views but were rejected. Over time, their dependency allowed the king to increase taxes to the point they could no longer be borne by the people and they rebelled.
Through the blood of committed individuals that Independence was accomplished over the course of 40+ years when we finally severed the control of Great Britain in the War of 1812. Yet, it didn't end there. We remained a nation seeking to find its way. We continued to seek a balance of power in how we were governed which culminated in a Civil War that consolidated power in the federal government. It was a result that led to better relations between the various races which comprise our people, but eroded the power of the people by consolidating it in the hands of the federal government.
We have survived global wars in which the United States came to the aid of nations whose values resembled our own. We have gone wherever necessary to combat the tendency of man to consolidate power through aggression. Yet we have allowed special interests to consolidate power within our own borders.
We have struggled with our own identity. We are a nation of many varied yet closely held beliefs. We have faced many issues that arise from the human frailties of self-interest and fear. We have made great strides in creating an environment of equality of opportunity for all. Yet we have allowed those same frailties of self-interest and fear to be used against us by the very politicians we elected to serve us.
We continue to struggle. Today we face some of the greatest challenges that we have ever faced as a nation. Many of those challenges are the result of the quest for power of individuals and groups who have only their self-interest at heart. They seek power for gain and not in service for the good of the nation and its people. They bully and intimidate through the power of the purse.
That such individuals and groups hold the reins of power is the fault of the people. Enough of us have allowed ourselves to be subjugated to the carefully orchestrated largess of the state and federal powers that our Independence has been lost. That subjugation has resulted in efforts to further consolidate power through expanding government services in ways that create further dependency. We see today an aggressive expansion and consolidation of power through the use of regulation and welfare (although not always by that name). We have become a nation controlled by dependency. Therein lies our downfall.
Our dependency on the government has created a situation of mounting debt that must be repaid. It is the tendency in such times to use taxation to repay the debt. The burden of government has become oppressive. We are facing a crisis in our nation that in many ways resembles the conditions prior to the War for Independence. It is time once again for our government to become both responsive to and responsible to the people.
(Also posted at Panhandle's Perspective)
That oppression arose from our dependency on Great Britain. The original colonists needed the support of the mother country for survival. In return, the king required taxes. Those taxes paid for wars that caused a mounting debt. The response of the king was to increase taxes to finance his aggressive policies that sought to consolidate his power.
The people sought relief from the burden but were ignored. They sought representation of their views but were rejected. Over time, their dependency allowed the king to increase taxes to the point they could no longer be borne by the people and they rebelled.
Through the blood of committed individuals that Independence was accomplished over the course of 40+ years when we finally severed the control of Great Britain in the War of 1812. Yet, it didn't end there. We remained a nation seeking to find its way. We continued to seek a balance of power in how we were governed which culminated in a Civil War that consolidated power in the federal government. It was a result that led to better relations between the various races which comprise our people, but eroded the power of the people by consolidating it in the hands of the federal government.
We have survived global wars in which the United States came to the aid of nations whose values resembled our own. We have gone wherever necessary to combat the tendency of man to consolidate power through aggression. Yet we have allowed special interests to consolidate power within our own borders.
We have struggled with our own identity. We are a nation of many varied yet closely held beliefs. We have faced many issues that arise from the human frailties of self-interest and fear. We have made great strides in creating an environment of equality of opportunity for all. Yet we have allowed those same frailties of self-interest and fear to be used against us by the very politicians we elected to serve us.
We continue to struggle. Today we face some of the greatest challenges that we have ever faced as a nation. Many of those challenges are the result of the quest for power of individuals and groups who have only their self-interest at heart. They seek power for gain and not in service for the good of the nation and its people. They bully and intimidate through the power of the purse.
That such individuals and groups hold the reins of power is the fault of the people. Enough of us have allowed ourselves to be subjugated to the carefully orchestrated largess of the state and federal powers that our Independence has been lost. That subjugation has resulted in efforts to further consolidate power through expanding government services in ways that create further dependency. We see today an aggressive expansion and consolidation of power through the use of regulation and welfare (although not always by that name). We have become a nation controlled by dependency. Therein lies our downfall.
Our dependency on the government has created a situation of mounting debt that must be repaid. It is the tendency in such times to use taxation to repay the debt. The burden of government has become oppressive. We are facing a crisis in our nation that in many ways resembles the conditions prior to the War for Independence. It is time once again for our government to become both responsive to and responsible to the people.
(Also posted at Panhandle's Perspective)
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Corporate Worship and the Praise Team
When I think about corporate worship -- and in a broader sense, the church in general -- the thought comes to mind that it is ideally much like an orchestra or a choir. The body of believers are the members, each performing his assigned part, while God directs the performance. As long as each individual does his part and follows the direction of the Director, the result is beautiful.
Now, a difficult question comes to mind. If each individual fails to perform his part, is the symphony ruined? In the case of a choir or orchestra the result is often less than satisfying -- perhaps incomplete would be a better description. In the case of the church does the same hold true?
I ask the question because God, being all-powerful, really has no need for us to fill all of the parts because He can supply anything that is missing and turn imperfection into perfection. But, does He? Or, does He choose to allow imperfection in order for those who are doing their part to grow by reaching out to those who are failing in their own?
When we hear a symphony or other type of musical performance we form a judgment. We either like/enjoy it, or we do not. Often our enjoyment is a function of our own attitude upon listening. However, there are times that we can come with low expectations and be lifted above our "mood" and into the realm of ecstasy. This typically occurs when a performance is executed virtually flawlessly -- technically, artistically, "energetically" and intellectually. It appeals to our sense of perfection, it pleases us aesthetically, it energizes us and it exercises our intellect.
One of the keys is that the parts are blended together in a balance that pleases our senses. If any part is not in balance with all of the others it distracts from the overall perfection of the piece. It distorts the performance.
In my post yesterday about "Energy and Music" I referred to our Praise Team in a manner that was less-than praiseworthy. I focused on the issue of energy. Perhaps part of the "draining" effect is due to a lack of balance. If each part is not performed in a manner that blends with the other parts, could that be the source of the draining effect?
Now, a critical question. Is it due to leadership style, lack of technical expertise, failure to follow, or some other factor? I don't see technical expertise as the issue. The level of talent in our Praise Team is exceptional. Leadership style could be a factor because there seems to be an unwillingness to confront the issue of individualism. It should be a corporate performance -- not a simultaneous set of individual performances. Ego comes into play. With the abundance of talent, it seems there is a universal attitude of "I'm the best so I need to really get-out-front on the music." That brings us to the issue of "failure to follow."
As I read the Gospel and focus on the ultimate message of Jesus I find that in a large sense it can be wrapped up in the statement -- it's all about denying self and glorifying God. Matthew 22:36-39 sums it up.
If we do this -- "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind...and love your neighbor as yourself." -- we solve the issue of "failure to follow." Because we then realize that each of us must do our part and not "run over" others who are seeking to perform their part. We blend into the symphony rather than distract from it.
I don't know -- maybe my rambling is a bit of a stretch. I just know that it could be better. To get better one must first identify the problem.
If you ask someone on the Praise Team they are likely to say that it is a lack of participation on the part of the audience/congregation/worshippers. Could it be that they are merely a reflection of what is going on up front?
Much prayer is needed.
Now, a difficult question comes to mind. If each individual fails to perform his part, is the symphony ruined? In the case of a choir or orchestra the result is often less than satisfying -- perhaps incomplete would be a better description. In the case of the church does the same hold true?
I ask the question because God, being all-powerful, really has no need for us to fill all of the parts because He can supply anything that is missing and turn imperfection into perfection. But, does He? Or, does He choose to allow imperfection in order for those who are doing their part to grow by reaching out to those who are failing in their own?
When we hear a symphony or other type of musical performance we form a judgment. We either like/enjoy it, or we do not. Often our enjoyment is a function of our own attitude upon listening. However, there are times that we can come with low expectations and be lifted above our "mood" and into the realm of ecstasy. This typically occurs when a performance is executed virtually flawlessly -- technically, artistically, "energetically" and intellectually. It appeals to our sense of perfection, it pleases us aesthetically, it energizes us and it exercises our intellect.
One of the keys is that the parts are blended together in a balance that pleases our senses. If any part is not in balance with all of the others it distracts from the overall perfection of the piece. It distorts the performance.
In my post yesterday about "Energy and Music" I referred to our Praise Team in a manner that was less-than praiseworthy. I focused on the issue of energy. Perhaps part of the "draining" effect is due to a lack of balance. If each part is not performed in a manner that blends with the other parts, could that be the source of the draining effect?
Now, a critical question. Is it due to leadership style, lack of technical expertise, failure to follow, or some other factor? I don't see technical expertise as the issue. The level of talent in our Praise Team is exceptional. Leadership style could be a factor because there seems to be an unwillingness to confront the issue of individualism. It should be a corporate performance -- not a simultaneous set of individual performances. Ego comes into play. With the abundance of talent, it seems there is a universal attitude of "I'm the best so I need to really get-out-front on the music." That brings us to the issue of "failure to follow."
As I read the Gospel and focus on the ultimate message of Jesus I find that in a large sense it can be wrapped up in the statement -- it's all about denying self and glorifying God. Matthew 22:36-39 sums it up.
If we do this -- "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind...and love your neighbor as yourself." -- we solve the issue of "failure to follow." Because we then realize that each of us must do our part and not "run over" others who are seeking to perform their part. We blend into the symphony rather than distract from it.
I don't know -- maybe my rambling is a bit of a stretch. I just know that it could be better. To get better one must first identify the problem.
If you ask someone on the Praise Team they are likely to say that it is a lack of participation on the part of the audience/congregation/worshippers. Could it be that they are merely a reflection of what is going on up front?
Much prayer is needed.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Energy and Music
Music is important to me. I would not consider it a driving passion as it is with many, however, I enjoy both listening and performing music.
I like many kinds of music. It often depends upon my mood.
I also enjoy silence, or the "music" of nature. Yesterday, I ate lunch at the park. The birds sang continuously.
I'm not one that must listen to music constantly. I don't go around with an iPod and headphones. Nor do I constantly play CD's or the radio as I drive -- and I drive a lot.
I am very particular about music. I like for it to be well executed. However, in a live performance, I do not expect perfection -- which brings me to the reason that I am creating this post.
Music in church.
There are two basic styles of worship music. There is Choral and there is Praise and Worship. I enjoy both when executed well. Therein is the issue.
What does it mean for music to be well-executed in a live performance? To me it is a combination of factors but the underlying strength of the performance resides in "heart." If the performer doesn't put their heart into the music it will lack energy -- even if executed flawlessly.
Our church choir generally puts a lot of heart into its performance -- especially the choir special or a special performance. There is a wide variety of levels of talent within the choir -- from exceptionally gifted to "nothing but heart." The thing that sets the choir apart however, is heart. Each of the individuals come together in a common concert of worship as they pour their hearts into the music -- not the performance. With rare exception, the performances generate energy. It is the result of each one pouring his heart into the musical offering. It is the product of the emotion.
Our Praise Team on the other hand is blessed with very gifted musicians. Each one does an exceptional job of executing the music. Therein lies a problem. When each of these gifted musicians performs on the "team" they are performing individually and concurrently. A couple of them put a measure of "heart" into their performance but they often are each "performing" individually and not pouring their heart into a worship experience. The result is often one in which it feels as though energy is being "sucked" out of the congregation. It becomes a draining experience rather than one in which we are energized.
Now I must clarify somewhat. The musicians playing instruments come together as a Team. The problem lies in the vocals. They each perform wonderfully -- but NOT as a Team. They are performing as individuals.
If any of those individuals should read this, I pray that it will be accepted not as a criticism of their skills, talents or performance. It is an offering from my heart of a desire for them to experience the power of worship as a team -- the power of worship as the body of Christ. When that happens in corporate worship the result is an amazing, energizing experience.
I like many kinds of music. It often depends upon my mood.
I also enjoy silence, or the "music" of nature. Yesterday, I ate lunch at the park. The birds sang continuously.
I'm not one that must listen to music constantly. I don't go around with an iPod and headphones. Nor do I constantly play CD's or the radio as I drive -- and I drive a lot.
I am very particular about music. I like for it to be well executed. However, in a live performance, I do not expect perfection -- which brings me to the reason that I am creating this post.
Music in church.
There are two basic styles of worship music. There is Choral and there is Praise and Worship. I enjoy both when executed well. Therein is the issue.
What does it mean for music to be well-executed in a live performance? To me it is a combination of factors but the underlying strength of the performance resides in "heart." If the performer doesn't put their heart into the music it will lack energy -- even if executed flawlessly.
Our church choir generally puts a lot of heart into its performance -- especially the choir special or a special performance. There is a wide variety of levels of talent within the choir -- from exceptionally gifted to "nothing but heart." The thing that sets the choir apart however, is heart. Each of the individuals come together in a common concert of worship as they pour their hearts into the music -- not the performance. With rare exception, the performances generate energy. It is the result of each one pouring his heart into the musical offering. It is the product of the emotion.
Our Praise Team on the other hand is blessed with very gifted musicians. Each one does an exceptional job of executing the music. Therein lies a problem. When each of these gifted musicians performs on the "team" they are performing individually and concurrently. A couple of them put a measure of "heart" into their performance but they often are each "performing" individually and not pouring their heart into a worship experience. The result is often one in which it feels as though energy is being "sucked" out of the congregation. It becomes a draining experience rather than one in which we are energized.
Now I must clarify somewhat. The musicians playing instruments come together as a Team. The problem lies in the vocals. They each perform wonderfully -- but NOT as a Team. They are performing as individuals.
If any of those individuals should read this, I pray that it will be accepted not as a criticism of their skills, talents or performance. It is an offering from my heart of a desire for them to experience the power of worship as a team -- the power of worship as the body of Christ. When that happens in corporate worship the result is an amazing, energizing experience.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
The Bovine Disposition
The Bovine Disposition
The bovine was designed by God
To be food for those that prey
That's why his eyes are on the side
So he can see all ways.
He tends to congregate in herds
And follows without thought
The flighty actions of the ones
Who dash in fits and starts
At any sound or movement
That catches their attention.
That's why they're easily gathered
Into pens where they are caught.
They blithely go about the day
Just eating grass or hay
Or lying about and chewing their cud
Content in every way.
They have no powers of reason
So it really makes no sense
To wonder what they're thinking
Because they really can't.
It reminds me of the people
Whose voting majority
Brought into power the leaders
Of the current Administration.
Neither realized that they
Both will soon fall prey
To the predators
Who herd and feed and keep them.
Monday, June 15, 2009
The Indian Blanket
The Indian Blanket or Firewheel, is probably my favorite wildflower. Its scientific name is Gaillardia pulchella and it is native to the central U.S.
The photo above was taken near the Canadian River in the eastern part of the Texas Panhandle. We are just coming to the end of its season. It is a great time to gather seeds in order to establish new colonies of them.
According to The Tulsa World, the following is the legend of the Indian Blanket.
"There once lived an old Indian blanket maker," he said, "whose talent for weaving gorgeous blankets was greatly admired among Great Plains Indians. Indians would travel many miles to trade for one of his colorful blankets richly woven in patterns of red and yellow.
"When the old blanket maker realized that his time was short, he began weaving his own burial blanket. When he died his family lovingly wrapped him in the blanket, which was his gift to the Great Spirit.
"The Great Spirit was pleased with the gift, but saddened that only those in the Happy Hunting Grounds would be able to appreciate the blanket maker's colorful creation. He decided, therefore, to give the beautiful gift back to those that the old Indian had left behind.
"The following spring gorgeous wildflowers bearing the same colors and design as the old Indian's blanket appeared in profusion over the blanket maker's grave.
The lovely flowers (Blanket Flowers) quickly spread across the plains for all to enjoy."
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Trust, Water and Government
Storms once again rumbled across the Southern Plains today. They have brought much in the way of promise but delivered little to my little corner of the world. The rains to the east have been a blessing to others.This morning our pastor used rain in an illustration. I wish that I had made notes because now I struggle to remember it. I do recall that if a rancher receives a 1 inch rainfall on a section of land (1 square mile or 640 acres), he would receive a total of about 17,378,560 gallons of water. If you owned a home on 1 acre of land, 1 inch of rain would equal about 27,154 gallons of water.
Now, I don't know about you, but I know that my water bill each month -- especially in the summer -- can be significant. I am fortunate that I live in the country and have well water which basically costs the electricity to pump it and the amortized investment in the well and pump along with the average annual repair bill. It is still less than the cost of city water.
I live in an area with about 18 inches of average annual rainfall. I have 4 acres of land. That calculates to 1,955,088 gallons of water that I receive each year on my small acreage. I live approximately 550 miles from the Gulf of Mexico -- the nearest ocean. Our rainfall is typically a function of moisture from the Gulf meeting a cold front coming in from the north.
The average cost of tap water in the U.S. is approximately $1.50/1000 gallons. My expected annual rainfall of 1,955,088 gallons of water would cost me around $2,932 if delivered from my tap at the U.S. average cost. If you considered the fact that the water likely came from the Gulf of Mexico and was purified along the way, you would need to add the cost of a filtration system, a desalinization plant and transportation costs. I won't begin to guess what all of that would cost. The transportation alone is enormous.
The thing that interests me most though, is that God does all of that for free. I wonder then why it is that we trust our government for all of the wonderful services that we enjoy and pay exorbitant prices for them when God can do such amazing things for free....
Maybe instead of putting our trust in the government we should put it in God.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
The Harem
The Harem
Quality is the name of the game
For purebred cattle herds
So no expense is spared acquiring genes.
They arrive in tanks of nitrogen
In something we call straws
And delivered in a way that seems obscene.
It is the most efficent way
For improving of the herd
Because the best blood is often far away
So modern technology
Has taken the place
Of the purebred herd bulls today.
However, there are those
Among the lucky few
Who don't face humiliation in a cone
They get to roam the pasture
With the chosen of the crop;
They're like a king who sits upon a throne.
With their harem on display
They stand by the road all day
With an attitude of, "Hey, you -- look at me!"
You know it's just their job --
Passing traits on to the mob --
And it's just the way that it was meant to be!
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Fort Williams -- Glasgow, KY
Last week in my Kentucky travels with Neal Odom, we came across Fort Williams in Glasgow. At first glance it appears to be merely a well-tended hill. However, it was the site of a Civil War battle.
Below are photos of the plaques describing the situation, the people and the battle. You can click on the images for a larger view.
The 6-pounder canon below overlooks the cemetery which contains a number of markers honoring individuals who were involved in the battle. The obelisk just to the left of the barrel is a monument to General Joseph H. Lewis, Commander of the Orphan Brigade which defended this site.
As we walked about the hill, it was interesting to note the placement of the artillery pieces. The hill was well defended from all but one approach.
The fortification consists of an earth berm supported by planking on the inside of the wall. A number of gun ports were cut through the bank and stabilized with planking.
Fort Williams was named for General Thomas Williams.
Below are photos of the plaques describing the situation, the people and the battle. You can click on the images for a larger view.
The 6-pounder canon below overlooks the cemetery which contains a number of markers honoring individuals who were involved in the battle. The obelisk just to the left of the barrel is a monument to General Joseph H. Lewis, Commander of the Orphan Brigade which defended this site.
As we walked about the hill, it was interesting to note the placement of the artillery pieces. The hill was well defended from all but one approach.
The fortification consists of an earth berm supported by planking on the inside of the wall. A number of gun ports were cut through the bank and stabilized with planking.
Fort Williams was named for General Thomas Williams.
Monday, June 8, 2009
A Detour on the Bourbon Trail
Last week's travels once again were in Kentucky. Neal Odom and I were traveling together making sales calls in the Central and East Central part of the state. One afternoon we found ourselves near the little town of Loretto and decided to drop in on one of the state's historical sites.
From the open vats, the slurry is then pumped to a 5-story tall copper distillation column. This is where the 12% alcohol slurry is distilled to a higher concentration. The distillation column sits to the right of the tanks in the photo above. Most of it is out of sight as it goes up through the floors of the Still House.
The distilled liquor is further refined and the proper amount of water is added to reach the final "proof" for the fresh bourbon. It is perfectly clear until aged in specially made white-oak barrels which are seen above. There are numerous warehouses storing the barrels of liquor in various stages of aging.
The entrance to the Still Room can be seen above. The first site is of the copper tanks where the distilled product goes.
The first step in creating Maker's Mark is to run the carefully selected grains through a roller mill. Then, the crushed grains are added to a pressurized wash tub which is seen above. This begins the process of converting the sugars and starches to alcohol.
From the pressurized tanks, the slurry of grains is then transferred to the open wooden vats seen above. This is where the first fermentation occurs. It is interesting to see the bubbles forming on top of the slurry from the gases produced in the fermentation process. Each batch contains a small amount of the previous batch which acts as "seed" for the new liquor.
From the open vats, the slurry is then pumped to a 5-story tall copper distillation column. This is where the 12% alcohol slurry is distilled to a higher concentration. The distillation column sits to the right of the tanks in the photo above. Most of it is out of sight as it goes up through the floors of the Still House.
The distilled liquor is further refined and the proper amount of water is added to reach the final "proof" for the fresh bourbon. It is perfectly clear until aged in specially made white-oak barrels which are seen above. There are numerous warehouses storing the barrels of liquor in various stages of aging.
Today, the finished product is bottled on site in the signature bottle dipped in red wax. In the earliest days, it was transported by wagon.
To learn more about the little distillery at Loretto, Kentucky, go to the Maker's Mark website linked here (warning, you must be 21 to enter).
Thursday, May 14, 2009
A Monumental Buffalo Hunter
Where William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody received his name.
Located at U.S. 83 and 2nd St., Oakley, Kansas.
(By-the-way -- it's only 16ft. tall!!)
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Revelations
Sometimes the simplest things are hidden until God decides to reveal them to us.
Some examples of things recently revealed to me:
James 1: It's all about growth in our Christian walk. I always thought it was about persevering through trial -- but it's all about becoming mature in your Christianity.
Luke 11: 1-13: Tells us to ask God for anything. He will give us what is good for us and whithhold that which is bad for us -- but ask for it all. Keep on asking -- our persistence will be rewarded.
Hebrews 8:19-24: Gives us the conditions for drawing near to God and explains how Jesus opened the way. Jesus conquered death on the cross and the separation between men and God (i.e. the curtain before the Holy Place -- or the presence of God -- was torn and Jesus then filled that gap). He became the way to enter into the presence of God. To do so we must have 1) a sincere heart, 2) full assurance of our faith, 3) freedom from a sense of guilt for our sins based upon the once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus and 4) be cleansed by the new covenant - i.e. acceptance of Jesus as our savior. When we meet these conditions there is no longer a barrier between us and God. Any barriers are of our own creation because Jesus is the only thing between us and God if we are His.
Some examples of things recently revealed to me:
James 1: It's all about growth in our Christian walk. I always thought it was about persevering through trial -- but it's all about becoming mature in your Christianity.
Luke 11: 1-13: Tells us to ask God for anything. He will give us what is good for us and whithhold that which is bad for us -- but ask for it all. Keep on asking -- our persistence will be rewarded.
Hebrews 8:19-24: Gives us the conditions for drawing near to God and explains how Jesus opened the way. Jesus conquered death on the cross and the separation between men and God (i.e. the curtain before the Holy Place -- or the presence of God -- was torn and Jesus then filled that gap). He became the way to enter into the presence of God. To do so we must have 1) a sincere heart, 2) full assurance of our faith, 3) freedom from a sense of guilt for our sins based upon the once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus and 4) be cleansed by the new covenant - i.e. acceptance of Jesus as our savior. When we meet these conditions there is no longer a barrier between us and God. Any barriers are of our own creation because Jesus is the only thing between us and God if we are His.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Male Ego
You ladies will probably like this post and you men will probably take exception to it. Oh, well. I call 'em like I see 'em!
Have you ever noticed how male ego gets in the way of rational behavior? OK. I guess that was a no-brainer question. So, I'll start over.
We've all noticed how male ego sometimes gets in the way of rational behavior. It can manifest itself as pride or as a fear of being seen to be weak. It often involves (at least in real men) a defense of their family. It is especially prevalent in successful men. I suffer from it myself.
What brought up this brief discussion is a difficult decision that I had to make last week. I interviewed a number of candidates for a new position in a new facility which we just opened. It was by far the best field of candidates that I have ever interviewed for a position throughout my 26 year career in business. It was extremely difficult for that reason.
There were a number of complicating factors in the hiring decision. One of the candidates was the wife of a former customer that I anticipated getting back due to our new location and the advantages that it offered over our competition. Another was the wife of an operation that we hoped to gain as a customer and who came highly recommended by a couple of other customers. Both were highly qualified, interviewed well and could bring great value to the position.
I knew that if I hired the wife of the former customer that I would get his business back -- and it is a sizable amount of business. If I hired the other, who I felt was the better candidate, it was also unlikely that I would upset any existing customers and it would probably have little negative impact on our existing business. So, based strictly on those surface criteria, it would seem that the safe hire would be the wife of the former customer. However, I strongly felt that long-term, the other individual was the best fit for the position.
I agonized over the decision and prayed hard for guidance. It seemed clear to me that I had to hire the best candidate regardless of the potential positive or negative repercussions of not hiring the wife of a former customer. So, that is what I did.
Today, it finally came to fulfillment -- the dreaded phone call. On Monday I informed by telephone, the wife of the former customer that she did not get the job. Today he called me to let me know that he would not be changing his business back to us -- even though our facility is just a couple of miles from his operation. He will be sending his business to a competitor that is located a significant distance away. He stated an excuse that was totally unrelated to my not hiring his wife -- but you could tell from the tenor of the conversation that it was the real reason.
It hurts me that the relationship with him is strained at this point. I understand his position. I truly believe that he really wants to do business with us but his pride tells him that he can't because of the "slight" to his wife.
It really was no slight to her. I suspect that she felt a little bit pushed into applying for the job by her husband. She just wasn't the best fit for the position. I would love to hire her -- I just don't have a position available in which her skills and experience could be utilized to the point that she could have a fulfilling and meaningful place in the company.
I know that her husband's excuse was just that -- an excuse. He used the reason that our competitor is cheaper. However, he has told me in the past that turnaround time is one of the most important factors to him in his business. We could save him about 24 hours in turnaround time. He also would save shipping costs. The impact of those two items alone would easily be worth 10 times the difference in cost.
Pride.
"Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." -- Prov. 16:18
Have you ever noticed how male ego gets in the way of rational behavior? OK. I guess that was a no-brainer question. So, I'll start over.
We've all noticed how male ego sometimes gets in the way of rational behavior. It can manifest itself as pride or as a fear of being seen to be weak. It often involves (at least in real men) a defense of their family. It is especially prevalent in successful men. I suffer from it myself.
What brought up this brief discussion is a difficult decision that I had to make last week. I interviewed a number of candidates for a new position in a new facility which we just opened. It was by far the best field of candidates that I have ever interviewed for a position throughout my 26 year career in business. It was extremely difficult for that reason.
There were a number of complicating factors in the hiring decision. One of the candidates was the wife of a former customer that I anticipated getting back due to our new location and the advantages that it offered over our competition. Another was the wife of an operation that we hoped to gain as a customer and who came highly recommended by a couple of other customers. Both were highly qualified, interviewed well and could bring great value to the position.
I knew that if I hired the wife of the former customer that I would get his business back -- and it is a sizable amount of business. If I hired the other, who I felt was the better candidate, it was also unlikely that I would upset any existing customers and it would probably have little negative impact on our existing business. So, based strictly on those surface criteria, it would seem that the safe hire would be the wife of the former customer. However, I strongly felt that long-term, the other individual was the best fit for the position.
I agonized over the decision and prayed hard for guidance. It seemed clear to me that I had to hire the best candidate regardless of the potential positive or negative repercussions of not hiring the wife of a former customer. So, that is what I did.
Today, it finally came to fulfillment -- the dreaded phone call. On Monday I informed by telephone, the wife of the former customer that she did not get the job. Today he called me to let me know that he would not be changing his business back to us -- even though our facility is just a couple of miles from his operation. He will be sending his business to a competitor that is located a significant distance away. He stated an excuse that was totally unrelated to my not hiring his wife -- but you could tell from the tenor of the conversation that it was the real reason.
It hurts me that the relationship with him is strained at this point. I understand his position. I truly believe that he really wants to do business with us but his pride tells him that he can't because of the "slight" to his wife.
It really was no slight to her. I suspect that she felt a little bit pushed into applying for the job by her husband. She just wasn't the best fit for the position. I would love to hire her -- I just don't have a position available in which her skills and experience could be utilized to the point that she could have a fulfilling and meaningful place in the company.
I know that her husband's excuse was just that -- an excuse. He used the reason that our competitor is cheaper. However, he has told me in the past that turnaround time is one of the most important factors to him in his business. We could save him about 24 hours in turnaround time. He also would save shipping costs. The impact of those two items alone would easily be worth 10 times the difference in cost.
Pride.
"Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." -- Prov. 16:18
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Thinking on a Passage from Hebrews
We've been looking at the book of Hebrews in our Sunday School class. I think that I've finally grown to the point that I find Hebrews deeply intriguing. The following verses really interest me:
Hebrews 10: 19-24
"Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds."
The Most Holy Place to the ancient Hebrews was the place where God dwells. Prior to Christ, only the High Priest could enter into God's presence. Now, believers can enter into the throne of grace because Jesus paid the necessary sacrifice to atone for our sins. That is, he met the requirements of the law to make us clean. However, there are four conditions for entering into the throne of grace, i.e. the presence of God. 1) We must have a sincere heart -- that is, undivided allegiance in our inner being. 2) We must have assurance of our faith -- that is, we have no hesitation in trusting Christ for everything. 3) Our hearts must be sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience -- that is, total freedom from a sense of guilt for our sins because we know that Jesus' sacrifice took care of them. 4) Our bodies must be washed with pure water -- that is, we must be cleansed of our sins through the baptism of the Spirit.
So, as it says in verse 23, "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful." -- in other words, there is no reason to doubt. So, we should move forward loving others and doing good deeds.
The part that really intrigues me is:
"...by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body...."
Any thoughts?
Hebrews 10: 19-24
"Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds."
The Most Holy Place to the ancient Hebrews was the place where God dwells. Prior to Christ, only the High Priest could enter into God's presence. Now, believers can enter into the throne of grace because Jesus paid the necessary sacrifice to atone for our sins. That is, he met the requirements of the law to make us clean. However, there are four conditions for entering into the throne of grace, i.e. the presence of God. 1) We must have a sincere heart -- that is, undivided allegiance in our inner being. 2) We must have assurance of our faith -- that is, we have no hesitation in trusting Christ for everything. 3) Our hearts must be sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience -- that is, total freedom from a sense of guilt for our sins because we know that Jesus' sacrifice took care of them. 4) Our bodies must be washed with pure water -- that is, we must be cleansed of our sins through the baptism of the Spirit.
So, as it says in verse 23, "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful." -- in other words, there is no reason to doubt. So, we should move forward loving others and doing good deeds.
The part that really intrigues me is:
"...by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body...."
Any thoughts?
Friday, April 10, 2009
I Was Made Good
I go
Blithely
About my business
On this day
That we call
Good Friday.
Why is it good?
It is because
On this day
I celebrate
My being made good
Because the Savior of the World
Paid the price for my sin
Long before
I was born.
It is the day on which
Each of us
Was made good
If only
We accept the sacrifice
That Jesus made
On our behalf
And submit ourselves
To Him.
It is
His gift
To us.
We cannot earn it;
We must accept it
In order to receive it.
The assurance
Of our goodness
Lies no longer in the grave
But rose to the heavens
Three days
Later.
And yet,
I go about my business
With little thought
To the price
That He paid
For me.
Blithely
About my business
On this day
That we call
Good Friday.
Why is it good?
It is because
On this day
I celebrate
My being made good
Because the Savior of the World
Paid the price for my sin
Long before
I was born.
It is the day on which
Each of us
Was made good
If only
We accept the sacrifice
That Jesus made
On our behalf
And submit ourselves
To Him.
It is
His gift
To us.
We cannot earn it;
We must accept it
In order to receive it.
The assurance
Of our goodness
Lies no longer in the grave
But rose to the heavens
Three days
Later.
And yet,
I go about my business
With little thought
To the price
That He paid
For me.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Connected
It seems like anymore
I live upon the road
With airplane seats,
Rental cars and
Motels for an abode.
The shape of doing business
Continues to change;
All it takes are laptops
And Blackberry phones
Which allow you to range
All over the country
While managing to attend
To the things that make
Your company grow
In spite of the national trend.
The worst part of it all
Is that you can't get away
From work
The way you could
Back in my father's day.
It's with you all the time;
No matter where you go
You can always
Be connected
With your laptop and cell phone!
I live upon the road
With airplane seats,
Rental cars and
Motels for an abode.
The shape of doing business
Continues to change;
All it takes are laptops
And Blackberry phones
Which allow you to range
All over the country
While managing to attend
To the things that make
Your company grow
In spite of the national trend.
The worst part of it all
Is that you can't get away
From work
The way you could
Back in my father's day.
It's with you all the time;
No matter where you go
You can always
Be connected
With your laptop and cell phone!
Monday, April 6, 2009
Knights and Shrouds
The Knights Templar, The Shroud of Turin, The Ark of the Covenant and other similar things have always intrigued me as I think they do most people. The article linked below is in reference to the first two of these items.
Knights Templar hid the Shroud of Turin, says Vatican
Knights Templar hid the Shroud of Turin, says Vatican
Saturday, April 4, 2009
It's All About Power and Control -- er, is that redundant??
Stuart Varney wrote an excellent article for the Wall Street Journal concerning banks repaying the TARP money. Follow the link below.....
Obama Wants to Control the Banks
There's a reason he refuses to accept repayment of TARP money.
Obama Wants to Control the Banks
There's a reason he refuses to accept repayment of TARP money.
Rockets Away!
It will be interesting to see how Mr. Obama responds to the North Korean rocket launch. I suspect we will see a repeat of Bill Clinton's do-nothing approach -- except with even more rhetoric.
The administration has somewhat painted itself into a corner. It appears that Mr. Obama has obtained some political capital among world leaders -- especially in Europe. Will he spend it in the U.N. Security Council? I doubt that he knows how to wield it effectively -- which begs the question -- who will he turn to for advice? Sarkozy? -- no -- Medvedev?? -- possibly -- Hillary? -- I wonder just how much power she truly has within the administration.... She might just ask Bill -- which brings us back to the first paragraph. Ultimately, I suspect it will be a matter of whatever "polls" best. Which again is reminiscent of Bill Clinton. I guess we should expect no less when we elect leaders who have no moral compass.
Now, the real question is what SHOULD we do????
The administration has somewhat painted itself into a corner. It appears that Mr. Obama has obtained some political capital among world leaders -- especially in Europe. Will he spend it in the U.N. Security Council? I doubt that he knows how to wield it effectively -- which begs the question -- who will he turn to for advice? Sarkozy? -- no -- Medvedev?? -- possibly -- Hillary? -- I wonder just how much power she truly has within the administration.... She might just ask Bill -- which brings us back to the first paragraph. Ultimately, I suspect it will be a matter of whatever "polls" best. Which again is reminiscent of Bill Clinton. I guess we should expect no less when we elect leaders who have no moral compass.
Now, the real question is what SHOULD we do????
The Wind Blew Today
The wind blew today.
Tumbleweeds
Piled high against the fences.
The gritty blast
Transformed the sunset
Into a hazy glow
That is quickly
Fading.
Tumbleweeds
Piled high against the fences.
The gritty blast
Transformed the sunset
Into a hazy glow
That is quickly
Fading.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Waxed Taxpayers Struggling With Funded Power -- or Some Such Nonsense
You've probably all noticed that I have not waxed poetic in quite some time. How can I compose verse without inspiration? I suppose that I could go with political verse but I've vowed to keep this a clean site. Anyway, I don't use the kind of language that comes into my head when I think about what our government is imposing on us.
Surely I can come up with something though --
The struggle for power
Is fueled by money
From those who would seek influence
So that those who gain power
Will send more money back
To those who funded their struggle
The sad thing is
That the funding is provided
From the losers in the struggle
Namely, the American taxpayers
Surely I can come up with something though --
The struggle for power
Is fueled by money
From those who would seek influence
So that those who gain power
Will send more money back
To those who funded their struggle
The sad thing is
That the funding is provided
From the losers in the struggle
Namely, the American taxpayers
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Photo Opportunities
Sometimes as I travel along I realize that I MUST get out my camera and preserve what I see for posterity.
Someone apparently was attempting to move this log cabin on a goosneck flat-bed trailer.
Someone apparently was attempting to move this log cabin on a goosneck flat-bed trailer.
The mishap must have made them change their mind. The FOR SALE sign speaks volumes.
I suddenly realized that this Tennessee "mobile home" just barely made it across the line into Kentucky before falling apart. There's gotta be a story here. Comments and captions are welcome.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
The Bradley 3 Ranch Bull Sale
Today is the Bradley 3 Ranch Bull Sale. Yesterday, I went out and took a look at the bulls and visited with some of the folks there.
I was really impressed with the operation. They've been around since 1955. It is a seedstock operation but is not your typical registered cattle outfit. This is a serious working ranch.
Neal checking out the young bulls.
Their focus is to maximize beef production per acre while operating at the peak sustainable capacity of their range. They seek to pass their knowlege to other producers both in genetics and in education. The ranch has received many environmental stewardship awards and that stewardship is reflected in the productivity of the operation.
Not only does the ranch seek to maximize the economic side of ranching, it also seeks to produce better quality meat for the consumer. This is done through carefully selecting for tenderness and other traits which make the end product more appealing to the consumer.
A few of the 163 bulls offered.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Entering the Social Networking Age
I have joined the Social Networking age by starting a Facebook page. I have already connected with classmates and friends from years back that I had totally lost touch with. It has been both interesting and fun.
I have been skeptical of such Social Networking sites, but I now understand the appeal. In fact, I sometimes find myself chatting with others who are signed on. It has been insightful and informative.
No, facebook isn't paying me to post this. I am doing it because it has impacted me.
I have been skeptical of such Social Networking sites, but I now understand the appeal. In fact, I sometimes find myself chatting with others who are signed on. It has been insightful and informative.
No, facebook isn't paying me to post this. I am doing it because it has impacted me.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
More Travels
Phoenix. I spent the week of Jan. 25 to Jan. 31 in Phoenix for the National Cattlemen's Beef Association annual Trade Show and convention. OK, not all of it was for the NCBA Convention, the first couple of days were seminars on BVD (that's bovine viral diarrhea virus for all you non-cattle people).
The economic downturn has affected the cattle industry just like many others across the country. The difference that I see is attitude. Cattle folks have a way of tightening their belt, pulling down their hat and knuckling down to take on whatever comes their way. There is an amazing can-do spirit that sets them apart from many people. I admire their willingness to face adversity and overcome it despite the odds. It's just another storm on the horizon -- OK, not on the horizon anymore.
If you are ever in Phoenix I would highly recommend Donovan's Steak and Chop House. It was outstanding. I would rank it among the very best in the country. Great food, the right level of service, quiet atmosphere and quality through and through.
More travels to come. I'll try and keep you posted.
The economic downturn has affected the cattle industry just like many others across the country. The difference that I see is attitude. Cattle folks have a way of tightening their belt, pulling down their hat and knuckling down to take on whatever comes their way. There is an amazing can-do spirit that sets them apart from many people. I admire their willingness to face adversity and overcome it despite the odds. It's just another storm on the horizon -- OK, not on the horizon anymore.
If you are ever in Phoenix I would highly recommend Donovan's Steak and Chop House. It was outstanding. I would rank it among the very best in the country. Great food, the right level of service, quiet atmosphere and quality through and through.
More travels to come. I'll try and keep you posted.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Didjereedoo
I was recently digging through the dusty archives of things written, not-written, ideas, etc. which have accumulated over the years. In it, I found the story below which I composed in April, 1990. The events are based in truth and occurred in the 70's and 80's.
Didjer
She sure looked scared all huddled up in the back corner of the kennel. It was hard to believe that someone would have such a beautiful animal put to sleep. she wasn't hurt all that bad, but the vet bill was going to be higher than her owner was willing to pay.
Ninety dollars to remove her eye and sew it shut -- but, what good could a one-eyed cowdog be anyway? Wounded in the line of duty by a young horse that didn't know better than to kick at the darting ball of fur nipping at that old cow's nose. A lot of good years left, even with one eye -- but not worth ninety dollars.
I had been working for Doc almost a year and was beginning to make a fair hand at patchin' up the critters that found their way into the clinic. Doc was determined to make a vet out of me, so he let me do a lot of things an assistant normally wouldn't have had opportunity to try.
I told Doc that I thought I could sew up her eye if he'd let me. Sew it up and take her home and not tell anyone that she didn't make it to her great reward on schedule.
She didn't want to be handled. I guess instinct said that this place was not going to be kind to her. Like a wounded badger, she crouched in the corner with her teeth bared and her good eye toward me. Sometimes you have to get a little rough to be kind.
The operation went well, with only a smidgen of guidance from Doc's experienced hand. During the week of recovery, every spare minute was spent in making her acquaintance -- and she became a friend.
Finally, the time to go home arrived and Didjereedoo was well on her way to recovery. A few more weeks of fresh air, green grass and a lot of attention and she was well in body and spirit. It soon became difficult to tell that she was only one-eyed. Her adjustment to the handicap was nearly perfect.
Over the years she was a joy to my family and to me. She never was any good at chasing cattle again. She was too cautious of flying feet. For companionship though, she couldn't be beat.
During years of college and then a new marriage, she and I were often apart. She did just fine living with my parents, but I knew that someday she would move in with my new family -- and so she did.
When we moved to our little country place near town, I knew that Didjer had found the place she had been waiting for. It was her fifth different home since I had rescued her, but the gray frost on her muzzle indicated this would probably be her last.
Still lively after surviving years of puppies, snake-bite, occasional sickness and many a highway pizza, Didjer decided she was still young enough to chase cars. I guess it was the influence of the younger dogs that we had kept to give her company. She was an expert at crouching in the ditch and approaching at just the right speed and angle to make an off-side intercept at almost any time of day or night. I didn't like her ways, but she was beyond convincing that car-chasing wasn't a sport for old dogs. I was concerned that the results would be fatal.
Her end was sudden, and I guess appropriate. It was a pickup that got her -- the sad part is, I was driving. She approached on her blind side and I guess she stumbled. I knew when I felt the bump that her time was gone. Not even a whimper. I stopped and ran back, but she never moved.
It's been about two years now since I buried her under the big old elm tree out back. She was a good friend. Her pup that we had kept got to chasing the neighbor's cattle and found her end very shortly afterwards. I haven't owned a dog since. I guess I know that another dog could never replace my one-eyed cowdog, Didjer.
Note: I have since owned a number of dogs.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Continued Travels
In my last post I left you with great Louisiana cooking. After arriving home on Sunday afternoon I got to sleep in my own bed for a change -- but only for one night. Monday, it was off to Midland, Texas, for the Southwest Beef Symposium.
Midland is not considered the mecca of the southwest, but it is a nice small city. The Symposium was well executed -- including the food. Whoever catered it did an excellent job with the steaks.
Wednesday evening I made it home late and then rose early to catch a flight to Denver for the National Western Stock Show. We participated with one of our vendors as a sponsor. It was my first trip to the National Western.
Denver was a good place to meet a lot of producers in a brief period of time. Many of the purebred cattle raisers had animals there for the show. There was a sprinkling of some of the larger producers but predominately it was those who raise them as a hobby. It is a group of producers with which I rarely come into contact. I believe that it was a productive trip but it will take time before I see any results. In spite of many of the producers there being well versed in genetics, very few of them were well versed in cattle health. They tend to leave it to their Veterinarian which is proper -- however, good producers need to understand health issues better than this group did.
The food in Denver was excellent as always. We made it to Il Posto, an Italian restaurant like none I have ever visited before. I highly recommend it as the pinnacle of dining experiences. When you go, be prepared to spend at least 3 hours dining. The meal is served in courses. Follow the link to find out more about them.
This week I have had some badly needed office time. I didn't realize how far behind I was.
Midland is not considered the mecca of the southwest, but it is a nice small city. The Symposium was well executed -- including the food. Whoever catered it did an excellent job with the steaks.
Wednesday evening I made it home late and then rose early to catch a flight to Denver for the National Western Stock Show. We participated with one of our vendors as a sponsor. It was my first trip to the National Western.
Denver was a good place to meet a lot of producers in a brief period of time. Many of the purebred cattle raisers had animals there for the show. There was a sprinkling of some of the larger producers but predominately it was those who raise them as a hobby. It is a group of producers with which I rarely come into contact. I believe that it was a productive trip but it will take time before I see any results. In spite of many of the producers there being well versed in genetics, very few of them were well versed in cattle health. They tend to leave it to their Veterinarian which is proper -- however, good producers need to understand health issues better than this group did.
The food in Denver was excellent as always. We made it to Il Posto, an Italian restaurant like none I have ever visited before. I highly recommend it as the pinnacle of dining experiences. When you go, be prepared to spend at least 3 hours dining. The meal is served in courses. Follow the link to find out more about them.
This week I have had some badly needed office time. I didn't realize how far behind I was.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Here We Go Again!
Here we go with another week!
I finished up last week yesterday afternoon when I finally got back home. From Tennessee and Kentucky I traveled south to New Orleans and Baton Rouge. The Louisiana Cattlemen were meeting at the Louisiana State University campus in Baton Rouge. Attendance was low but it was a good trip. I picked up one new customer and several solid prospects. I also was able to visit with a number of leading influencers.
The LSU campus is gorgeous. It is the first time I've ever been on their campus. There are huge live oak trees and lakes. The weather was nice and the facilities were excellent.
We took a brief foray into the French Quarter of New Orleans for dinner on Saturday evening. We didn't stay long after that. It is required that one sample the Cajun cuisine when in town however, and so we did.
At the Conference on the LSU campus we sampled true "native" fare. The first day, dinner was Jambalaya. They spent all day cooking it in a huge pot in the arena of the cattle pavilion. It was outstanding. I've never had Jambalaya in which the meat used was sirloin steak. I've never had better. The second day at lunch was traditional Cajun fare also. We had sticky rice with meatballs. It was ooowheee good! Y'all gotta try it sometime, ya heere?
I finished up last week yesterday afternoon when I finally got back home. From Tennessee and Kentucky I traveled south to New Orleans and Baton Rouge. The Louisiana Cattlemen were meeting at the Louisiana State University campus in Baton Rouge. Attendance was low but it was a good trip. I picked up one new customer and several solid prospects. I also was able to visit with a number of leading influencers.
The LSU campus is gorgeous. It is the first time I've ever been on their campus. There are huge live oak trees and lakes. The weather was nice and the facilities were excellent.
We took a brief foray into the French Quarter of New Orleans for dinner on Saturday evening. We didn't stay long after that. It is required that one sample the Cajun cuisine when in town however, and so we did.
At the Conference on the LSU campus we sampled true "native" fare. The first day, dinner was Jambalaya. They spent all day cooking it in a huge pot in the arena of the cattle pavilion. It was outstanding. I've never had Jambalaya in which the meat used was sirloin steak. I've never had better. The second day at lunch was traditional Cajun fare also. We had sticky rice with meatballs. It was ooowheee good! Y'all gotta try it sometime, ya heere?
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Sales Calls and Customer Acquisition
I flew into Nashville on Tuesday evening in the midst of pouring rain. It did not bode well for the appointments that I had on Wednesday (yesterday). I hate driving in the dark in the rain on unfamiliar roads with high-speed bumper-to-bumper traffic but that is what I did. Thankfully, I reached my motel in one piece and checked in. After a bite to eat, I retired to my room , happy to be out of the rain.
Wednesday dawned with cloud cover, but no rain. The snow which had been forecast failed to materialize and the day turned out to be great. My big worry became a minor scheduling conflict between my appointments. I called the first one early hoping to move it up and low-and-behold, that was the way it happened. It was a 40 mile drive to meet him at his operation south of Nashville. I headed south on I-65 thanking my lucky stars that I wasn't in the inbound traffic that was backed up almost 15 miles south of Franklin in parking lot mode.
The appointment went even better than I had anticipated and I met not only with him but also one of his neighbors that he had invited over. Both of them are now new customers. I then headed north to my next appointment in Bowling Green, Kentucky. I arrived about 20 minutes early which was great because it gave me some extra time to prepare a couple of items that I felt needed to be added to my arsenal.
The meeting went extremely well and we parted with the agreement to take the next steps. I then called a contact in the area that I didn't have on my schedule and he invited me out to his place northeast of Bowling Green. It was well after dark-thirty when I left after a great visit.
As I hit the north edge of Nashville my cell phone rang. It was the veterinarian who does the work for my afternoon appointment. He had lots of questions and said that I had made a favorable impression. We talked for almost 30 minutes as I drove back to my motel. (I know, I shouldn't be talking on the cell phone while driving but the traffic was light at that time of evening.)
This morning I received a call from our home office to let me know that the veterinarian I had spoken with last night was ready to go ahead and utilize our services for his client. He had called before 8:00 a.m. We will be shipping him the items he needs to get started today.
Yep, it has been a good week so far. Three new customers picked up yesterday in an area where we are looking to expand. Now I'd better get off of here so I can catch my flight to New Orleans.
Wednesday dawned with cloud cover, but no rain. The snow which had been forecast failed to materialize and the day turned out to be great. My big worry became a minor scheduling conflict between my appointments. I called the first one early hoping to move it up and low-and-behold, that was the way it happened. It was a 40 mile drive to meet him at his operation south of Nashville. I headed south on I-65 thanking my lucky stars that I wasn't in the inbound traffic that was backed up almost 15 miles south of Franklin in parking lot mode.
The appointment went even better than I had anticipated and I met not only with him but also one of his neighbors that he had invited over. Both of them are now new customers. I then headed north to my next appointment in Bowling Green, Kentucky. I arrived about 20 minutes early which was great because it gave me some extra time to prepare a couple of items that I felt needed to be added to my arsenal.
The meeting went extremely well and we parted with the agreement to take the next steps. I then called a contact in the area that I didn't have on my schedule and he invited me out to his place northeast of Bowling Green. It was well after dark-thirty when I left after a great visit.
As I hit the north edge of Nashville my cell phone rang. It was the veterinarian who does the work for my afternoon appointment. He had lots of questions and said that I had made a favorable impression. We talked for almost 30 minutes as I drove back to my motel. (I know, I shouldn't be talking on the cell phone while driving but the traffic was light at that time of evening.)
This morning I received a call from our home office to let me know that the veterinarian I had spoken with last night was ready to go ahead and utilize our services for his client. He had called before 8:00 a.m. We will be shipping him the items he needs to get started today.
Yep, it has been a good week so far. Three new customers picked up yesterday in an area where we are looking to expand. Now I'd better get off of here so I can catch my flight to New Orleans.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Another Year
Once more we come
To the end of a year
And such a year it has been!
Just hold on to your hat
'Cause the things unleashed
May be the worst we've ever seen!
It is a time for reflection,
A time to make plans,
A time to be thankful for friends.
It is a time to decide
Where your priorities lie
As this old year quietly ends.
As you're making your list
Of Resolutions next year
There is one thing you need to include;
That is time for your God --
To "get right" with Him
Because only He seeks your good.
To the end of a year
And such a year it has been!
Just hold on to your hat
'Cause the things unleashed
May be the worst we've ever seen!
It is a time for reflection,
A time to make plans,
A time to be thankful for friends.
It is a time to decide
Where your priorities lie
As this old year quietly ends.
As you're making your list
Of Resolutions next year
There is one thing you need to include;
That is time for your God --
To "get right" with Him
Because only He seeks your good.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Transitioning to the Season
Only another week and then my travel schedule will slow for a few days around the holidays. I am ready! It seems that I've been going from one Trade Show/Convention to another forever. Yea, I know, it hasn't been quite that bad but what's a good complaint if you can't use it. What's bad is I just looked at January and it appears to be worse!! I don't see more than a two-day break for the entire month. Yee-haww (not)!
It has been good though (the Trade Shows/Conventions) because we have picked up quite a bit of business. That's not necessarily something you expect from such functions. Usually, they are good for starting the process or for developing new relationships, but rarely do you walk away with new business (at least not in my industry).
The other gratifying thing is that our marketing efforts are paying off. Potential customers know who we are. They recognize our name/logo and know what we do. They are seeking us out. That makes it doubly important that I be at all of the industry functions. When they see me there, they know that we are supporting them as well as asking for their business.
My schedule is reflected in my recent posts obviously (or should I have said, lack of posts). It seems that there hasn't been much time to reflect, just to do. When I'm running 9-0, my creativity goes down the tubes.
I need to get back in the creative spirit though -- Christmas requires creativity. It should be a joyful time of family and friends. It should be a time of reflection. Instead, it is usually filled with intense activity trying to get shopping done, programs attended and on and on. I intend to do better this year. I plan on enjoying the holiday season rather than dreading it. It's all about attitude right? (I guess I'm trying to convince myself.)
It has been good though (the Trade Shows/Conventions) because we have picked up quite a bit of business. That's not necessarily something you expect from such functions. Usually, they are good for starting the process or for developing new relationships, but rarely do you walk away with new business (at least not in my industry).
The other gratifying thing is that our marketing efforts are paying off. Potential customers know who we are. They recognize our name/logo and know what we do. They are seeking us out. That makes it doubly important that I be at all of the industry functions. When they see me there, they know that we are supporting them as well as asking for their business.
My schedule is reflected in my recent posts obviously (or should I have said, lack of posts). It seems that there hasn't been much time to reflect, just to do. When I'm running 9-0, my creativity goes down the tubes.
I need to get back in the creative spirit though -- Christmas requires creativity. It should be a joyful time of family and friends. It should be a time of reflection. Instead, it is usually filled with intense activity trying to get shopping done, programs attended and on and on. I intend to do better this year. I plan on enjoying the holiday season rather than dreading it. It's all about attitude right? (I guess I'm trying to convince myself.)
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Happy Thanksgiving!
Psalm 100
1 Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
2 Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
3 Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his [a] ;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Travels in Colorado and New Mexico
A colleague and I recently attended a symposium in Colorado Springs. On the way back south we decided to detour and see some different country. At Trinidad, Colorado, we turned west on U.S. 160 and then south on Colorado 389 toward the tiny community of Branson. (Follow this link for interesting pictures and info on Branson.)
The photo below was taken just south of the 160/389 junction. We are looking to the west toward Trinidad. The two taller peaks on the right side of the photo are the Spanish Peaks and the snow-covered mountains in the middle are the Sangre de Cristos. The mesa to the left is in the area of Raton Pass. (You may click on any of the photos to enlarge them.)
The photo below is a zoom into the Sangre de Cristos. From where we stood, about an hour east of Trinidad, you cannot see a single house or building.
The photo below was taken just south of the 160/389 junction. We are looking to the west toward Trinidad. The two taller peaks on the right side of the photo are the Spanish Peaks and the snow-covered mountains in the middle are the Sangre de Cristos. The mesa to the left is in the area of Raton Pass. (You may click on any of the photos to enlarge them.)
The photo below is a zoom into the Sangre de Cristos. From where we stood, about an hour east of Trinidad, you cannot see a single house or building.The valley that you see in the distance of this photo is where Interstate 25 runs today but was once a section of the Mountain Branch of the Santa Fe Trail. The trail continued over Raton Pass into New Mexico. To the south of where we stood for this photo is the town of Branson which is located on the BNSF railroad (once upon a time the Denver, Texas & Ft. Worth Railroad). If you continue futher south on 389 you will enter Tollgate Canyon through which was a minor branch of the Santa Fe Trail. It was used extensively by Charles Goodnight when he trailed herds north on the Goodnight-Loving Trail into Colorado and Wyoming. He thought the tolls over Raton Pass were too high so he shifted the herds futher east to the Tollgate Canyon. After a period of time, he blazed his own trail over Trinchera Pass.
Tollgate Canyon was also known as one of the hideouts of Blackjack Ketchum, a notorious outlaw of the early Plains. He and his band of thieves used the canyon as a route between various trails where settlers traveled. (Some interesting reading about the area can be found at this link.)
Photos courtesy of Neal Odom.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Just for Fun: What Board Game Are You?
You Are Boggle |
 You are an incredibly creative and resourceful person. You're able to dig deep and think outside the box to get things done. You are a non linear thinker. You don't like following directions You draw your inspiration from the strangest places sometimes. You're constantly inspired. |
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
President Bush to Deliver Commencement
President Bush has certainly taken lots of knocks during his tenure. Much of the negativity comes from the extreme left because they don't understand his belief system. Some comes from the right because they have felt that he often gave into the left. In many ways, that put him at the center.
There are in this country, still many people who are proud to call him their President. The areas of the country that continue to hold conservative values still support him. I am one of those who is proud to say the he is still my President (at least for a few more weeks) and I am proud that he will deliver the Commencement Address at my alma mater.
President Bush to speak at A&M commencement
There are in this country, still many people who are proud to call him their President. The areas of the country that continue to hold conservative values still support him. I am one of those who is proud to say the he is still my President (at least for a few more weeks) and I am proud that he will deliver the Commencement Address at my alma mater.
President Bush to speak at A&M commencement
Dr. Lowrie to the Rescue....
A good man (and fellow blogger) just jumped into the "hotseat" of the Baptist General Convention of Texas. David Lowrie, pastor of First Baptist Church of Canyon, Texas, was elected President of the BGCT yesterday. I guess we'll have to share him with the rest of the state now.
West Texas pastor elected Baptist group president
Click on the link for the AP story.
West Texas pastor elected Baptist group president
Click on the link for the AP story.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Richard Fisher's Remarks to the Texas Cattle Feeders
In the previous post I mentioned attending the Texas Cattle Feeders Convention at the Gaylord Texan on Lake Grapevine. In the comments, someone asked about my reaction to the speech by Dallas Federal Reserve Bank President Richard Fisher. My response was that I was impressed. You should be the judge however, and to that end, I have linked his speech which can be accessed at the following link:
http://dallasfed.org/news/speeches/fisher/2008/fs081104.cfm
Although it is obvious that he took great care in his remarks to send no signals to the market, I felt they were revealing anyway. I hope you take the time to read his speech and please feel free to comment. I would like to know your thoughts.
http://dallasfed.org/news/speeches/fisher/2008/fs081104.cfm
Although it is obvious that he took great care in his remarks to send no signals to the market, I felt they were revealing anyway. I hope you take the time to read his speech and please feel free to comment. I would like to know your thoughts.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Football, Travel and Fall Colors
I just watched Texas Tech pull out a win against Texas. It was quite a game. It was exciting to the last second on the clock. It's too bad the Aggies aren't having such a good season but they did beat Colorado today.
Tomorrow I'm headed for the DFW area for the Texas Cattle Feeders Convention. It will be held at the Opryland Hotel on Lake Grapevine. From there I will head home on Tuesday to spend the night in my own bed before heading to Colorado Springs on Wednesday for the Beef Summit. It will be lots of travel from now through mid-December. But, I guess it's been lots of travel for the last few weeks.
The weather here has been nearly perfect for the last few days and is expected to be the same for the next week or so. The high temps have been in the low 80's and the lows have been in 40's and 50's. It has been great for creating good color in the trees. The red oaks below are in our front yard.
Tomorrow I'm headed for the DFW area for the Texas Cattle Feeders Convention. It will be held at the Opryland Hotel on Lake Grapevine. From there I will head home on Tuesday to spend the night in my own bed before heading to Colorado Springs on Wednesday for the Beef Summit. It will be lots of travel from now through mid-December. But, I guess it's been lots of travel for the last few weeks.
The weather here has been nearly perfect for the last few days and is expected to be the same for the next week or so. The high temps have been in the low 80's and the lows have been in 40's and 50's. It has been great for creating good color in the trees. The red oaks below are in our front yard.
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