Friday, December 26, 2008

Christmas. The Sequel.

So, I worked all christmas in order to give a Young EMT time with her new fiance & family (You can only be Young & in Love once) & she is supposed to repay me by working today. I've made plans to spend the morning with kitty, opening the Presents I have been studiously ignoring on my Coffee table, then going upstate to see my BFF Vicki and give her daughter her Christmas gifts I was told she will go wild over- Personally, I never saw the allure of Hannah Montana, but then again, I'm nowhere near young. The only person I didn't get anything for is Mom, but only because I take her out on a regular basis & make sure she wants for nothing.

I know the Economic Crisis is affecting many Folks, both here & around the World. We put our Trust in (Supposedly) Better educated & Savvy individuals and are now paying the Price for that mistake. There are just as many Thieves, Liars & Cheats among the Educated Class (maybe even more) than there is in the population as a whole. Your future really is in your own hands, at least as far as financial is concerned. Imaging if this country had actually bought into Bush's plan to invest part of Social Security in the Stock Market?

What about OIL? Before this whole business happened, didn't all the "experts" say that the World demand was driving up the price? Where did the "World Demand" go? Did China & India & Japan really stop needing OIL? OR WAS IT ALL A BIG SHELL GAME, DESIGNED, PLANNED & EXECUTED BY BIG OIL, THIS GOVERNMENT & IT'S OIL MEN IN OFFICE IN CAHOOTS WITH THE OIL PRODUCING NATIONS? Oil is now trading at just over $34/barrel- that means gas should be selling at approx. $ .94/Gallon? Why isn't it? Why is home heating oil still at it's Highest prices ever? I'll tell you why since no one else will- THE OIL COMPANIES ARE STILL RIPPING US OFF & GEORGE BUSH & THIS GOVERNMENT IS STILL PROTECTING THEM! Notice you don't hear either Democrats or Republicans calling the companies to task now & Now is when they NEED to be called on their Ripping off the Public!!! Let me know what you think, if you want.

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Merry Christmas Everyone! Happy Holidays with Peace on Earth & Goodwill to All! May the New Year bring you Peace and Prosperity!

Friday, December 19, 2008

A Rant about Twitter...

I like Twitter! it's kind of the Cotton Candy of the Internet(s); easy to use & many us us actually get to communicate regularly with Other bloggers we follow. I really have enjoyed exchanging Bon Mots with thewino, kimsnotebook, borneochica,theenglishrose & several more that I've found while I was there.

My Problem with Twitter is the bunch of "people" who are signing on to follow my updates. I always get notified when someone starts following me & when I check them out, they literally follow Thousands of people. I don't understand it- No one can possibly follow that number of folks 7 the only thing I can come up with is some sort of marketing effort- which turns me right off.What do you think?

Sunday, December 14, 2008

Lulajze Jezuniu - Sungha Jung

I hope anyone who listens to this will remember that Love knows no Borders.

Monday, December 08, 2008

Friday, November 07, 2008

SIRA: Diabetes Prevention and Treatment

This opened my eyes and I think it will open yours as well! it's very long but I urge you to watch it- especially if you are overweight or have any type of diabetes or know anyone who has it!

Thursday, November 06, 2008

Friday, October 31, 2008

I've been Tweeting up a Storm...

Sorry I've kinda been MIA. I've been using Twitter and neglecting my author instincts. On this feast of Sowen, let us remember that while the Harvest has been god, it only remains so through vigilance. If you don't understand- good!, neither do I! anyway, if you join twitter, my name there is Yknot, so Yknot follow along?

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Sicky.

Oh, what a time to get sick. The weather is changing, It's my first day back to work and I woke up this morning after a full night's sleep feeling I had just unloaded a Semi full of machine parts by hand. That & a Runny nose completes this all-too-sad picture. Screw it. I'm going out for Breakfast this morning and at least try to enjoy some of today. Stay tuned for all the Gory Details...

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Japanese kit clock

This clock is part of a magazine in Japan that every month send it's subscribers a different model. It's name roughly translates as: Toys for Adults or Science for adults. The clock is Volume 8 and is available from kinokuniya bookstore or online (Google them) Cost is approx. $27-28. You're Welcome.

Tuesday, October 07, 2008


If a Dog barks in the Woods and no one is around to hear it, Did the Dog bark at all?
-Thanks to the highland Laird for this arrangement. I'd like to get one with a cat!

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

A Fabulous Weekend, followed by...

I will post pictures as soon as my lazy butt gets in gear but I was self-Indulgent yesterday and only finished a few things.


I don't know how everyone is taking the news but I only have One Question: Why is it that fixing Social Security, which provides for and Protects most citizens "too expensive" to fix but Wall Street shows us their Absolute Incompetence and we are ready to pony up 770 Billion in order to "temporarily fix" their problems? Remember, these folks are the ones who say they "are the experts" What, exactly are they expert at? Will taking their "bad debt" really make everything better or just allow them to Dump their financial "shit" on us and continue on their Merry Way?

The Romans had a solution for this: the Jubilee year, where all debt was cancelled- public and private so everyone started with a clean slate. I'm Certain it wouldn't occur to anyone to do this so I'm throwing it out there. No one can miss out on Profits, can they? Is Forgiveness really possible? This Whole "Crisis" feels like a Shell Game; a 3 card Monty of a thing. and this president (and John Mc Cain) wants us to put part of out Social Security into This Swamp? Chile did this and people Lost 15-20% of their deposits in fees, assessments etc...

If Wall Street wants a Bail-out, We want Social Security fixed for the foreseeable future- let That be their cost and I would agree. but then again, what do I know? I'm only a regular guy.

Saturday, September 27, 2008


Off to Saugerties- The Garlic is calling Me!
We are off to the Hudson Valley Garlic Festival! Although it s wet today, I'm sure we will have a great Garlicky time-We always do! I love harvest festivals! If you're local, the weather is supposed to clear tomorrow, stop by and say Hi, just don't get too close- I might have Garlic on my breath, but, come to think of it, so will everyone else so I may not stand out. BTW: the guy whose face is printed on the scarecrow is Bob Yerina, a garlic farmer and Great Guy who shows everyone how to braid- just look for the sign.

Sunday, September 21, 2008

Tell Her This- Del Amitri

More from Julia Nunes. For someone doing all her own backup work, she Good!

Monday, September 15, 2008

From the NY Daily News:

Hero EMT slain in love triangle
; girlfriend's ex sought
BY OREN YANIV, TAMER EL-GHOBASHY and SIMONE WEICHSELBAUM DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITERS
Updated Monday, September 15th 2008, 7:57 AM

Jason Ruiz
A hero paramedic who once jumped onto the subway tracks to rescue a stricken woman was stabbed to death early Sunday, cops and relatives said.
Police have arrested the woman's enraged ex-boyfriend, Enrique Pizarro, 25, at about 11:30 p.m. Pizarro was charged with murder and possession of a weapon.
Jason Ruiz, 30, an FDNY emergency medical technician with a long record of bravery, answered a knock on the door of the woman's Sunset Park, Brooklyn, apartment about 1:30 a.m.
The woman's ex-boyfriend immediately started arguing with the pair and pulled a knife.
The suspect stabbed Ruiz, whose father is a retired police detective, twice in the chest and ran off, cops said.
"I heard the screams," said Mario Velazquez, 40, a neighbor. "When the [victim] screamed, somebody ran off."
Ruiz was taken to Lutheran Medical Center but died an hour after the stabbing, cops said.
"It was an unfortunate tragedy," said Ruiz's cousin Carlos Pantoja, 33.
Ruiz's girlfriend had been "harassed" by her ex-boyfriend recently, family members said. Cops said they knew the suspect's identity and were hunting him.
Ruiz, a paramedic for four years, was mourned by fellow emergency medical technicians as a fallen hero.
They hung his uniform at their office at Woodhull Hospital in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. Flowers surrounded Ruiz's helmet. Candles sat by his overalls.
"He would do anything for anybody," said EMT Yvonne Aparicio, 30.
"The department is saddened by his loss," said FDNY spokesman Jim Long. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."
In July, Ruiz was recognized for rescuing a woman who had suffered a seizure and fell onto the subway tracks at Marcy and Myrtle Aves in Brooklyn, Long said.
Ruiz and his partner, Juan Rios, jumped onto the tracks without waiting for the power to shut off, pulled the woman to safety and provided emergency care.
"He was the first one on the tracks doing what he was trained to do," said Rios, 27.
He was awarded a medal for "meritorious acts" in 2006 and 2007.
"He was very loyal," said the sister of Ruiz's girlfriend, who asked not to be named. "He was a good guy."

Funeral details will follow. Jason, shield #3805 will be Missed...R.I.P. Brother
His attacker turned himself in and he was arraigned earlier tonight.

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Matt Damon Speaks my mind on:Sarah Palin






9/11


I will be staying home today. I normally would go to one of the services or ceremonies that will be held but today I feel that remembering in private is my best option. I ask any of you who see this to say a prayer for all the victims of 9/11.

Sunday, September 07, 2008



Henry "Hank" Eck, Requiescat In Pace



Hank Eck, along with his son Ken, were the Friday crew for S.O.A.C., my volunteer corps for I believe the better part of Five years. Hank and I were the day tour and his son would take over in the evening I rode from 7am to midnight. Hank had retired from the Phone company and in addition to having been the Chief of the local fire department, he was active in his retirees association (the Pioneers), the ambulance and other groups. He was a tall, Funny and Hard Working guy who cared about people & was ( and still is) My Inspiration for what it is to be a Great Partner! He passed away yesterday at age 82. Words are insufficient to describe my sense of Loss.


Decency is all too Overlooked. Hank was a Decent man, concerned with the welfare of others and always ready to lend a hand. When there was Trouble-there was Hank! Humility is Disparaged. Hank was self effacing. Manners are almost missing in public today. Hank really was a Gentleman. It wasn't an act, like it seems to be for so many others. He will be Missed.

Saturday, September 06, 2008

That Green Gentleman, PATD cover

YaY! Julia is Back! If you haven't heard her, check her ouit on Youtube under jaaaaaaa Love the Uke

Sunday, August 31, 2008

Sunday's Video:Retarded Policeman #17

Ordinarily, I like discussing EMS, but this guy has a whole series of these that really are a scream! Enjoy!

Friday, August 29, 2008

Pico and Sepulveda

More Cowbell!

I'm Feelin' it Friday.

I think I must suck at blogs! That's O.K. I guess. Not everyone can be good at everything. I directed a couple of friends to my book review and other posts & no one commented. Perhaps that's telling me something. Or not. I wish the Truth were prettier, more fun or attractive, in some way but I'll stick with it. I'm also sure that working 80 hours this week isn't the most conducive to Reflection, Perspective whatever. The only thing that's working is that I'm not fearful about money and it's a Good feeling, but, like Happiness, fleeting.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008


Book Review: Black Flies
*I want to start off by stating that I don't know the Author. I looked at his picture in the back and it doesn't "ring any bells" I have no interest, financial or otherwise in this book, other then the fact that I worked through this period for Health & Hospitals as NYC*EMS and FDNY-EMS, after the takeover in 1996 I worked in the Bronx during most of this period but I did Overtime shifts in Harlem, Bellevue and elsewhere (all over the place) in the 5 boros. It might even be possible that I worked with the author, though I have no memory of it.
I saw this book in Barnes and Noble and after reading the subject material, bought it. It is set during my first 10 years "on the job" so I'm familiar. Also, much of what we all went through remains unwritten and who knows, I might have a book in me one day but Anyway...
Right before Graduating the EMS Academy, I remember one of my instructors, Ray Simons, saying " You will be a different person after working in this job for a year. What you see, say and do will stay with you." He was right then and remains right today (he is in our Counselling Services Unit -CSU after retiring) This is one of the many stories of that process of change.
Working the streets is a real "meat grinder" and in between dealing with your partners, the public, the supervisors and all the Overtime you're forced to work, both to make the financial nut and keep enough Ambulances - or Busses on the streets it can and does eat you up inside. There are many sights, sounds and smells you can never forget. Seeing Evil on the TV is one thing- dealing with it (and it's effects)up close and personal is a completely different thing! Cops, firemen and other "professional rescuers" all have this in differing ways. Many drink, fool around, work and focus way too much on the job to the detriment of their family, friends and most importantly, themselves. Burnout is a Bitch and occurs a Lot! Ever wonder why the Divorce rate is so hi? I don't.
You have to develop a "thicker skin", a sense of purpose that will allow you to function in the middle of Chaos, a professional (and detached) demeanor, get rid of whatever preconceived notions you've got and Focus. You also have to learn to Cope, to leave the job, at the job when you go home, to remember to relax and re-charge your "batteries" so things like Patience, Compassion Humor, Love and Friendship have a place in Your Life. Believe me when I tell you this: Keeping your Head on Straight is a full-time job! Otherwise Burnout is not only Likely, it's inevitable. At times, the turnover rate in my job was higher then Mc Donalds! Even now, after the city acknowledging and trying to change it; the average EMT only stays for 3 years, the Average Paramedic:5 years.
Many of the stories of job and descriptions of places feel right on and were similar to what I've gone through. The actual process I assume was changed for dramatic (or legal) reasons. As for Partners: there are as many "types" and flavors as there are people. I recognize some of the "types" he presented but as you go on, all of you change- I can tell you that some of the folks I didn't like or didn't like me when I first got there turned out to be Great Partners and Friends as a result of shared experiences. Attitude and Approach are Important. So's keeping a Sense of Humor. And B.S-ing in the After-hours clubs ,parking lots bars,night clubs and other spots with Partners, the cops, firemen etc...
There was a mini epidemic of job-related suicides during this period. The last incident was last year when someone killed himself outside of the EMS Academy. We have struggled with this mightily.
That all said; the book is dark, like the job can be but it is not at all an accurate reflection of the EMS that I've come to know. Then again, I've lasted 15 years and am still Positive ( I kind of feel like saying my experience isn't the norm and isn't necessarily what others will go through-"past performance doesn't guarantee future results") but I'm not the Poster child for "normalcy"- whatever that is and don't want to be either! A good, quick read but keep in mind that it IS a novel with the flavor of NYC*EMS- not a mirror. I look forward to reading something else by the Author. I also hope that if this was his experience- he's Happier now and has gained some Perspective with time.
Enough with the writing- I'm going to enjoy the rest of the afternoon and take a walk.

Monday, August 25, 2008





Lazy Summer Sunday Pics: Beacon Showboat "Pirates"

My oldest (and best-est) friend Vicki and I were supposed to meet last night and she told me about a show/ performance happening in her town of Beacon. I came up with kitty and we took the above pics of their fantastic boats, part raft, with a working steamboat and alternative fuel engines. They remind me (probably on purpose) of the movie Waterworld. They were supposed to set sail at 8 pm, but Vicki got caught up in other obligations and I had to leave early as my Leiut. called me to fill in in a pinch (hey, money's Money) if I couldn't enjoy checking out the performance with my friend(s) I ought to go make some as the Hudson Valley Garlic Festival is coming up at the end of September in Saugerties and I need money for hotel and garlic (YUM!)

Sunday, August 24, 2008



Something to Think About on this fine Sunday afternoon...


I was asked the other day how many of us who worked jobs most/all of our lives and have pensions/ social security / savings/investments built up are going to fare against the millions of folks who never worked long enough to qualify/ lost their good paying job and have lost/spent their pension/never had a "good" job (hello Walmart employees!) went to prison etc... I wish I had an easy answer for this but I don't. There are many for whom the "net" has large holes. Sure, social security will "pick up" some of these but how we deal with now is going to have a Huge impact later on, as the "baby boom" reaches retirement.


There are going to be A LOT of Unhappy people! I also expect there is going to be rampant elderly abuse, scams and even outright murder! So I ask the other 2-5 people who actually look at my blog: How do You think we should be looking at or handling this situation? Where should we start and who should we be asking?

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Today was a Good Day!

I snuggled, I walked peacably in the sunshine, I treated nearly everyone I met well, I was witty and urbane, I looked ahead and saw myself overcoming much of what keeps me (and most of us) down, was considerate of both myself and others and generally have nothing to apologise for!

Monday, August 11, 2008

Hands Thrown Up « Culinary Couture

One from Lemmonex:
Hands Thrown Up « Culinary Couture: "Tuna Salad without a Name
Lemmonex Original
1/4 cup low fat mayo
1 1/2 tablespoons whole grain mustard (or dijon)
3- 6 oz. cans tuna (in water)
1- 15 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3/4 cup frozen peas, thawed
1 stalk celery, diced
3 tablespoons red onion, finely diced
Salt and pepper
Mix together mayo and mustard in large bowl. Add remaining ingredients and stir together to combine. Let chill in fridge so flavors mix for about an hour before eating, but ideally overnight."

Sunday, August 10, 2008


Strange Paper.
I found this and think it's the strangest paper I've seen in a while. Who thought of this and actually went through all the trouble of having it printed up?

Sunday, August 03, 2008











More Pics...




Lately I've gone a little snap-happy with my digital camera. I should post to flickr or some other service but I'm always afraid that my pics will get used without my permission. Do you know anything about this? If so, Please let me know. Thanks for looking!












Friday, August 01, 2008


View of the City: L.I.E., Queens, 6 am
I just finished Overtime in Queens & was on my way home when I stopped and snapped this pic. Mornings are great dfor pics if you're not as tired as I was. Good Shot 'tho


Saturday, July 26, 2008


2008 NYC*EMS BBQ

Today, a group of those of us who worked "back in the days" of NYC * EMS got together for a BBQ in a park in Harlem. Many of the older folks you see in the picture are truly legends in the EMS community. No, at first glance you wouldn't think so but some of these folks drove Cadillac and "bread box" ambulances, brought their own jumper cables to hook up & use the siren during the time when the city wouldn't allow ambulances to have them, wore the white uniforms and pea coats of hospital attendants. These were some of the First Paramedics in New York City, Viet Nam vets, The folks who would walk up 27 flights of stairs and carry down a patient when the elevator didn't work. There's a Lot more I could say about them, all True but I don't want to Bore you. Many of these folks have forgotten more about EMS then many today know.

As a group of (mostly) retirees, it was quite interesting to hear what they had been up to. They mostly have kept busy, doing everything from becoming Physician Assistants, teaching High school, going into Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs, owning businesses and houses. A few are still bearing the Heavy Price for their participation in 9/11 with recurring illnesses, PTSD, that limits them to living far from most folks and being stressed by being there at the BBQ; even knowing that they wanted to be there to Catch up with Old Partners and Friends. Some couldn't make it, their Cancer, their Asthma too severe. All were missed. We also took a moment to Remember those of us who had passed on this year. Many stories were told, much food was consumed, much Fun was had getting together.

Those of us still working talked about the status of our Contract Negotiations with the city, where we were & who we were working with, and how we were getting on. EMS is a Thankless Job. I am certainly not the first to say this, nor will I be the last. The people who do this come from Many different backgrounds but we share in the Rescuer personality: We like to help Others so much that we do this job for Far less then many others would, put up with a Lot of BS while doing it and for some of us, doing this gives us injuries and illnesses that are Permanent. We have also found Family and Life-long Friends here, experiences Bonding us. I feel Proud to be a part of this group. I am not in this picture as I had to take pictures for many others but next year, I will be in it!



Thursday, July 24, 2008


Acknowledgement of Copyright (s)to Owner onFlickr.com

Just Full of Ideas... or it....

Well, it's been another banner week at my house. The laptop I re-installed Windoze on suddenly went dark and wouldn't start up, so I took it to Geek Squad and they pronounced the motherboard had fried. Here are my choices:

-Get a new laptop ($600.-1,000.)

-Repair this one ($500. approx.) Note- late model Toshiba running centrino duo processor and windoZe visa capable 'tho running XP on it. very lightly used and compatible with many current laptops sold today)

- See if Toshiba would take a look & perhaps replace the Motherboard for me ( abut a year out of warranty) because of defect in motherboard.

-Go Finhing.

What would You do?

Friday, July 18, 2008

Hot Enough for Ya?

Sorry about not actually posting, I've been busy driving myself to the poorhouse (mine) all the while working OT and trying to keep my head on straight. I lent my laptop to a fellow church member and he managed to delete a system file, so I had to dump and reinstall Windoze WITHOUT a recovery disk! try that sometime... I've been taking a lot of pictures and will be posting them to flickr-I think- I like their stuff. I'll put in a link when I'm done. I'm just now installing the A/C that has been wrapped in plastic in the shed and trying it out beforehand so if it needs fixing, I'll do it BEFORE I put it in! (Yes, I AM a genius- 'cause I've done it before!) Hope you are all keeping your Cool and Those of you at Blogher this weekend are busy getting your drink on- Mommy needs a cocktail! Cheers!

Saturday, July 05, 2008

Why Youtube Sucks!

I really like Youtube. at times, it can be awesome, exposing you to Great Folks, Like Julia Nunes (LOOK BELOW!),Paperlilies,etc... but then comes the IT SUCKS! moment! Here I am, trying to add a comment: Ladies & Gentlemen, I give you Julia Nunes,Appearing at the Knitting Factory,NYC on July 12th. A pretty innocuous comment, don't you think? Well, Youtube WOULD NOT LET ME ADD THIS!!! I was turned down over a dozen times! It would only post as it did. Check Julia out on Youtube: jaaaaaaa and she's on Itunes.

Flagpole Sitta?

Friday, July 04, 2008


Happy Birthday America & Me....Especially Me...Yay Me!!!
Friends,Bloggers and fellow Countryfolk, Once again it's my Birthday! A wild celebration of massive proportions! I know you will all be enjoying this day almost as much as I will (who doesn't love a 3 day weekend?) Please feel free to revel in the moment-I will! My chopper is well on the way to being fixed, My personal life is satisfying and low Drama- except for the kitten-My health is good, Overall, it's been a Pretty Good Year. ( Forgive the Reference- I enjoy Tori Amos &No, for the record want to be a boy today and every other day!)I hope it's been the same (or better) for you as well.
What's Next? No one can say with certainty, other than we will most likely elect a Democrat to the White House, The Economy will slow further as prices rise, the real estate market will soften further as the full extant of the World Credit Crisis becomes fully visible, ( I can't speak with surety about where you are but the real estate here is Overvalued) The Oil companies are colluding with this Administration and OPEC to keep the prices high ( This is where the Chickens have Come Home to Roost- NEVER elect an Oil Man-EVER! ) Face it Folks, we are in a Recession that will not end soon.
THANK YOU REPUBLICANS! Your Over-riding HATE of Democracy, Love of Money & Power and willingness to send everyone Else's son and Daughter to die while yours stay safe at home and work on their tan (or degree) Directly put us here!You say it's Government that's the problem- No, YOU ARE THE PROBLEM!!!
Enough said for one day...


Monday, June 16, 2008

Another Idiot gives me Money!

I like O.T. I've never said anything different. The fact that I'm on my 3rd consecutive double shift is neither my first nor my last. However, this shift is different. I'm replacing someone who has gotten themselves into such a well of trouble that I don't hold their chances high of ever getting out of it. I didn't wish them ill and hope they can prevail but in the meantime, I will be covering their tour for the foreseeable future. Good, (sort of) I have to put a couple of things on hold but I will be paying off the bills faster.

Sunday, June 08, 2008

Being Bad.

We recently got wireless here in the station and since my partner is running late, I decided to be bad and blog. I've worked 3 back-to-back 16 hour days and am due for another tomorrow. Lucky for me I have a wash-dry & fold service or I'd be doomed! I hate this heat! Asthmatics, Infants, the Elderly and the drunk-all are extra sensitive to this. Oh, and Addicts too. There's nothing that says summer like climbing 6 flights of stairs to deal with an OD on the roof. or carrying one down so that they can get to the ER and walk out.

My question to you is this: Now that we finally have the two major candidates, Why would you vote for either of them? While I confess that I'm a Dyed-in-the-Wool, Yellow dog Democrat, I can't say that I'm Overly impressed with Obama; Mc Cain seems ready for Retirement, not Presidency. Would you look at a third-party? Again, Inquiring minds want to know.

Tuesday, June 03, 2008

I need more Time.

I don't know about you but I need more time to do all the things I want. There isn't enough hours in the day for everything. Perhaps I need to be more efficient but somewhere along the line I think I've gotten about as efficient as I can be; and am comfortable with. How efficient are you? I think Women are FAR more efficient then Men, as a Whole but that's a Generalization. Inquiring Mind(s) want to know.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

The curse of the Digital Camera.

I will be posting pictures of the EMS Memorial and Bike Ride but they won't be mine. Somehow, my digital camera decided to re-format my card at some point during the weekend, so I lost All my beautiful pictures! I'm counting on a couple of other folks there to send me their pics. I had a Great time, made some new friends and bought a watch. I really do enjoy sleeping in my own bed however. Roanoke is a beautiful typically American Small town., but a good 40-50% of it's downtown is dead and has remained so for the past few years'. A drive through it's centre square will show you at least a dozen Large and many more smaller buildings Empty from floor to ceiling. They don't even post available signs. The public seems resigned to this state of affairs.

That the city of Roanoke could say to the EMS community that it can't seem to find a permanent home for the Memorial, forcing the National Board to look elsewhere while this is happening is SHAMEFUL!!! they seem happy enough to take our money when we show up each year, and my guess is that we pump about 1/2 a million + into the local economy that weekend. Well, their shortsightedness is forcing the Memorial to move elsewhere. For my sake, I hope it's Washington,D.C.

Thursday, May 22, 2008

I'm off like a Prom Dress!

I will be leaving for Roanoke, VA. tomorrow to attend (like I do every year) the national EMS Memorial service. I almost always have a good time and I hope you do as well. I'll try to post a few pics and such when I get back. Ciao!

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

What's Your Motivation?

I was perusing the other blog sites last night and I came across a post for gooseberried that made me think. What motivates us? what gets you out of bed in the morning. Is it bills? kids?Fame? Fortune? The chance to show everyone you have a bitchin' rack? (I'm quoting here!) I don't usually ask myself that question. Maybe I should more. "An unexamined life..." and all that. Perhaps I need to further motivate myself to "put things Right" whatever the hell that means. I wonder, does revealing your motivation(s) make them more effective or just let everyone know that you're a doofus instead of just thinking it? I need a cup of tea and a little me time to figure it out. I don't know if theres' a Point to any of this but I'll put it out there: What's your motivation? does it change or is it the same each time?

Saturday, May 17, 2008

The Sun is shining,the Birds are singing & I have to finish cleaning my house if I want to go enjoy it!

That's the thing with Projects, they have to be completed before you can move on. I finished building the Japanese-inspired sliding wall/doors in the dining room and it looks great! I also took the rug up, cleaned the floor and put a thick Bokara down. I think I'll need a pad but it all looks Right but now I have to gt all the furniture back by myself. Hopefully I can go for another long walk along the river this afternoon. How's Your day going?

Monday, May 12, 2008

And now for something Completely Different...

I see the videos went over like the proverbial lead balloon, so it's back to actual words. I have enjoyed sleeping in my own bed all night and not being awakened for Stupidity. I've enjoyed puttering around my house, I Haven't enjoyed spending a lot more money than I'm used to but it's all Good-I think. I saw Iron Man-Definitely a movie to check out if you like Action and Humor. Mothers' day sucked- Mom was too sick to see me but we made a date for her and I to meet up for lunch this week. Curiously, I've been thinking of my own Mortality- not in a depressing way but more of a rational,: "I'd better make sure that my will is up-to-date and certain things are labeled" sort of way- funny, I don't feel sick, it just came to me.

Kitty is being Nice to me as I've bought her a lot of little gifts and taken her out to eat- she and I made dinner together the other night and snuggled. I like snuggling- I know it sounds....Metro sexual of me to admit to it but it's true nonetheless. I hope you are all well and are having a good time as well.

Saturday, May 10, 2008

Happy MILF Day!

I've been finding so many stupid/fun/insane/great videos that I just can't help but share them! My Bad!

Tuesday, May 06, 2008

A Time for Joy!

The FD Cardiologist gave me a week & a half off and will probably send me back two weeks from now. Yay Me! I feel Good and the weather is Perfect: not too cold and windy, not too hot & sticky! Not that I've a lack for things to do but you can only putter around the house so much when it's this Gorgeous outside! I plan on taking a lot of long, rambling walks, finishing projects, seeing my patient and knowledgeable time sensei and ENJOYING LIFE!!! Who'd a thunk it?

Saturday, May 03, 2008

A Week of Waiting (or how to keep the Beat)

I was relaxing on tuesday when a series of events happened that told me I needed to get my pacemaker checked as my heart rate was Very low (32bpm) I checked into the ER was admitted and spent the rest of the week waiting as 3 different sets of doctors worked out putting a new one in. I may not have mentioned this before, but yes, I have a pacemaker. When I underwent open heart surgery, they cut the electrical connection between the top and bottom of my heart ( the perkunjie fibers) necessitating a pacemaker. I shoulda brought a book!

The actual procedure took about an hour and a half but it was 2 days before they did it. I don't mind missing a little work (my Lt. does 'tho) and now that I've spent the first night sleeping in my own bed my shoulder has a baseball-sized swelling that hurts like the Dickens & of course, being the Genius I am I forgot to ask for Pain Relief. Thank G*d I have some APAP/Codene from dental work!

Observations:
-Most hospital personnel don't have much of a sense of Humor. I had a white board across from me with the date the words: Your Nurse is________ and Your Care Partner is______ of course, the first chance I got I filled in the blanks with Elsewhere & Busy, Starsky & Hutch, Having a Moment & Taking a Break, etc... Each & every time one of them noticed, they immediately erased it!

- TV and Cable suck ( to be honest, I had that opinion going in)

- Most hospital personnel (other than the Doctor) don't care if you're sleeping, it's 4am etc... if they have to get an EKG they won't bother themselves to do it while you are awake! I DON'T like being awakened for blood work- come when I'm conscious!

-Most of the Doctors I saw were different ones from the practice, leading me to believe that saying you have a doctor is misleading. Although they know why you are there and what you need, I can't help but get the Impersonal feeling.

Anyway, I'm going to take a couple of days off, relax and hope the swelling goes down. Hope you are ALL doing better then I am!

Sunday, April 27, 2008

Hey! Get your hands out of my Pants!

So, following a grueling week of working like a nut, I decided It was a bit too much work to (get up at 5am & drive 4 hours) to go see my sensei - we have a date monday anyway and spent yesterday visiting friends, going Garage sailing ( yes, i know-saleing- it just doesn't look right) and relaxing. I scored a bunch of stuff-it's still sitting in my car mostly cause I came home, expecting to go back out & see a movie but decided to finish a book I had started but didn't complete (Small Favor by Jim butcher) Escapist- Yes, but along with the other reading it's like candy for the mind.

I'd love to comment about all the other stuff swirling around me these days, I've been a busy bee and there's a lot to talk about if I could, but unfortunately it is Premature to talk about Litigation prior to my filing it. Let's just leave it at: I'm living an Interesting life- hopefully I won't have to but you all know the name of that tune. The Union locals' elections process went well and that brings a smile to my face as so many can't get it Right as evidenced by all the newspaper articles.

Wednesday, April 23, 2008


Happy St. Georges' Day!
It's the national holiday for the English people. Yay! Don't ask me why I'm cheering, perhaps it's because I know a few Great folks from that Green & Pleasant land and hope to visit one day.

Sunday, April 20, 2008


Mark Watin, R.I.P.
It is with a heavy heart that I report the death of my friend and co-worker, Mark. By all the reports,he died in his sleep and was found by his girlfriend of several years. He was a Legend in the NYC*EMS community as "the Teflon Tech" There are many who have both Great and Terrible things to say about the man. I hope that they can find it in their hearts to Forgive him, as I have. I Know he helped me at the One time I needed his kind of advice more than Anyone. While I won't dwell on the negatives as I don't speak ill of the dead, He is subject to the Law of the Prophets, as are we all. He will be missed.

Monday, April 14, 2008

New Idea!

Anyone who might know detailmedic IRL or can contact her, please ask why she password-protected her site and to contact me. My info is in my profile. Thanks!

Friday, April 11, 2008

Well, There's a First time for everything. . .

I got locked out of a blog. Boy, I didn't expect that! I put a post up about how the FDNY is on a hiring free-for-all and when I come back to the blog, they password-protected it and locked me out! it says I should contact the blog owner to ask permission but who knows how to do that? I certainly don't. Perhaps it's in error but I'll see if it clears up or not.

Anyone know how to go ask a blog owner for permission onto their blog when you don't know them?

Friday, April 04, 2008

The award for the Most done this week goes to...?

I got in two OT shifts, finished the nominations process, volunteered for Ambulance duty.gave a brief but complete report, lost an Ebay auction at the very last minute (they sniped me!) did a lot of organizing,did a major shop and generally made myself useful this week. Now if I could only exercise more often, eat well and make sure I had more Me time... but then again, there always room for improvement!

Thursday, March 27, 2008

First Marathon OT of the year.

Sorry about the not updating kids. I just completed 6 OT tours (along with my regular tours) in the last 5 days! I have a packed weekend and a couple of things extra to accomplish as well. Thank the Creator for the wonders of caffeine! Kitty has been extra supportive, making and packing lunches and snacks while I slept. Meow! I didn't know that walking away for a week could result in 200+ emails in my inbox! Anyway, gotta get ready to take the long drive to see my sensei of all things Horological. Hope your week is going as expected.

Tuesday, March 18, 2008


My "old" Partner, Tim, Enjoying an Empty Street -End of the Parade, St. Patrick's Day.
Well, now that I have done the march, following our Pipes & Drums, I can tell you-it's a Very long Walk! My knee is only now relaxing through the magic of Tylenol, rest and promising that next year, I'm going to be better prepared! Sorry I didn't get any pic of me but perhaps Tim will share (he's Good like that) If you'd like to know the Met is about 4 blocks down on the right. Next year, I also hope to get everyone who has the day off. We had about 150 but I think that 400+ folks were on their RDO-Regular Day Off so there's Room for Improvement. I might post a big bunch of pics on flickr but want to check with some folks first- No, I'm not putting up the "good" shots-they are for local consumption only. I'm Proudest of this pic as Tim is perfectly dressed and framed and it just works!

Friday, March 14, 2008


R.I.P., Deborah Reeve, EMT-P

The image above is that of a Co-worker, Deborah Reeve, who died of NH-L following her participation in the WTC. We dedicated a plaque for her in Station 20 ( The old station 23-Jacobi) this past week. Pictures never really tell the whole story. She was a tough, funny-as-hell Medic who was Loved by nearly Everyone. The fact that once Jacobi was the largest Station in the city- fielding 40 units 24/7- that was no mean feat. Her husband, another medic nicknamed "Kentucky" is the same way.

The World really is the poorer for her loss. She is survived by her husband and two children with her daughter having a strong resemblance. 'Nuff said.

Thursday, March 06, 2008

Relaxation!

After working a dull, if full week, tonight I'm going to the Met to see Gabriela Montero for the last time she will be anywhere nearby for at least a year! Slowly I'm sorting through things & I hope to get several things accomplished in the next day or two. I took Kitty to the city this morning, so she could get her Christmas present adjusted & to make a pilgrimage to Sahadi's in Brooklyn to go crazy-If you're ever there, ask Rob for a pound or two of his special blend coffee-if you like coffee at all, you'll like his!

I completed the Nominations process for the upcoming election. My favorite sentence was " "I'm a man with a Mission: to ensure that the elections process is Free, Fair, Open & Honest. I want you to be proud of your Union." Now comes all the Drudge work of writing everything down, contacting everyone, setting up the final process(es) checking & agreeing for the ballot printing and setting everything in Motion- kind of a Dance with tight deadlines and more than a few surprises .

Ever take on a Big job?

Saturday, March 01, 2008

Where did I put my...?

I hate these days. It's like everything I want to put my hand on has decided, as a group, to make themselves unavailable! Or, even worse, I can only find Part of what I need: like the rechargeable battery for the camera I have in my hand-they were attached the last time I looked! or the memory card reader for the computer- I Know I put it into the drawer along with many of the other peripherals-specifically so I have them all in one place and they wouldn't get lost! And don't get me started on the damn Bluetooth headset- that gets lost faster than a Loose Diamond in a glass of water if I don't take the time to put it on the charger as soon as I take it out of my ear or pocket!

In Other news: Very Spendy this week-well over a Grand in fact and more coming. Never forget, this is why we Save Money & Pay Ourselves First! It's all Good! I hope to grab a couple of Overtime Tours this week, so if I don't post-Don't Fret just trying to earn a living.

Question? Did you get your Taxes done Yet?

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Sunday, February 24, 2008




A Great Night


Kitty and I went to see Gabriela Montero last night at the Peddie School in Hightstown, N.J. We had seats in the front row Center! As is her want, the first half of her program, she played straight classical pieces & after intermission, she did improvisation requests from the audience. The highlight (for me) of the performance was when a Peddie School Student asked if she could play a piece she had been working on but was stuck. Ms. Montero welcomed her up, she played about 6-8 seconds of a piece and after a moment, Ms Montero went for a good 5-8 minutes; just on that small piece! I loved the fact that she engaged the audience (and was very engaging herself)


After the performance ended, we came out to the lobby, where a couple of Ms. Monteros' CD's were being sold. We were told she would come & sign them and because I was prepared for that eventuality, I brought the Right tool for the job, a fine point Sharpie ( I've had Experience with Musicians before-they Never have them!)

Ms. Montero came out and (as usual) was trying to sign in pen. I offered her the Sharpie, which she gladly accepted and when it was my turn, I got both my CD's signed on the Cd's themselves plus I gave her a job shirt I had made for her from the Quartermaster with her name embroidered on the Right side (like all of us have) I said: " many people will offer you flowers or Candy but I thought you might appreciate something that will keep you warm." She graciously accepted and in the picture above, you see her holding onto the Quartermasters' clear bag.(and the Sharpie)

Yes, that IS what I look like- Short,Plump & Balding with Glasses and a 'stache Kinda like Santa Claus but without the Powers or Motivation. But I'm a WHEE! of a paramedic!- and a Legend in my own mind too!
























Friday, February 22, 2008

Music You might like to Check Out.

Thanks to Gooseberried and her wonderful commenters for a list of music they listen to.

1. Belle & Sebastian 11. The Postal Service 21. Neko Case
2. Bloc Party 12. Regina Specktor 22. DCFC
3. David Bowie 13. 311 24. The Doves
4. Elliot Smith 14. Idna Menzel 25. Iron &
5. Feist 15. Beirut Wine
6. Imogen Heap 16. Hawksley Workman 26. Wilco
7. Ingrid Michaelson 17. Mia toi Dodd 27. Rachael Yamagada
8. The John Butler Trio 18. Clap Your Hands Say Yeah! 28. Sia
9. Joni Mitchell 19. Tally Hall 29. Stars
10. PJ Harvey 20. Arcade Fire 30. Nada Surf

I didn't follow any particular order and there were some I couldn't fit in (only 30) but Please Check out her Great Site for the Original List! For some (probably) stupid reason, I can't point to more than 24 folks. Sorry!
And Now for the Funny...

I thought I would ask who you are currently listening to but I must pass along a Very Funny blog: Vonnegut's Asshole he's a writer whose posts are a little long, but if you don't laugh at some of his turns of phrase-seek psychiatric help!

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

How Resilient are You?

I had a hard couple of days. Many folks seem to be under more stress than usual and they are taking it out on others. I'm unsure as to why, maybe the economy has something to do with it. I was assulted by a heroin addict, who after she was given Narcan to start breathing effectively on her own, popped awake & hit me in the head. Luckily, there isn't much up there so I was more surprised than hurt. I've been noticing I'm getting cursed out a lot too. I'm fairly careful to treat everyone with civility- I've been doing this too long not to. Don't Know.

How do you handle disrespectful treatment?

Friday, February 15, 2008

Tempus Fugit-( Time Flys)

Once again it's time I gathered up all the various reciepts, W-2's etc... and head over to H&R Block to get my Taxes done. I know it's the lazy man's way but I am not a Tax expert and I Know I'd miss deductions. I used to have a Great Bookkeeper who did an Excellent job, but she smoked all her life and died suddenly of Cancer. Since then, I've gone to Block. For those of you who like to do it yourselves, they also have that option as well. Online.

When do you do your Taxes (usually & this year?)

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

Recovery,

I had the offending tooth removed (rather quickly and professionally by an Oral surgeon) after working a double shift (Yes, 16 hours with a Toothache is something I would wish on my worst enemy) Thanks to a small supply of Tylonol with Codene (#3) my doctor gave me. I'm home today with Vicodins & Antibiotics- am still painful & swollen 'tho.

I was happy to hear they settled the Writers' Strike but I think the terms kinda suck. The writers' are going to get a set figure for series Internet distribution, regardless of how many folks download, amounting to a couple of hundred more dollars.. The pay did go up at least. and the next deal will look a bit better as they can take a look at the Compnies' books.

Sunday, February 10, 2008

OWWW!

It was an otherwise uneventful evening at work. We had all chipped in for pizza & I was on my 2nd slice, when I bit into the crust and... BAM! A tooth cracked! and of course, being the Genius I was I grabbed some tylonol and washed it down with Cold soda...Big Mistake! Just about hit the floor with pain. I've paid a lot of money for good dental workand it's been a Long time since I've had that level of Pain! I put in a call to my doctor and hope she will take pity on me and give me a few Tylonol with Codene or toridols to hold me over until monday.

When's the last time you've had a toothache?

Thursday, February 07, 2008

"I feel my Mortality Surround me..."



I was going through my record of This American Life Podcasts, listening to an episode named Home Alone about what happens to folks when they die alone and while this isn't me at all, I felt a sadess come on me. Some of these folks were married, had children, but in some cases, outlived them all! In others the children had become estranged and no one was around for them when they died. When you are Young, noone thinks about your own demise- it's the furthest thing from your mind. When you get to middle age however, you realize one day that at least half your life is behind you and that your time to come is not nearly as large as the time you've already spent alive.



NO, I'm not having a Midlife Crisis. I have a job that occasionally Challenges me, a better-than-average living situation, folks who Love and Care for me & I, them. It just comes as a realization that for some, this is what they have ahead of them and it is the Last thing they would have expected. As part of the Baby Boom, I can expect even more aweful things happing to us as a group as the majority of us goes into retirement (those of us that can) Somehow, my Jaundiced Eye thinks that there will be a lot of Predators out there, trying to make a living on the misery of others, or exploiting for Profit. I have noticed stories about it and I'm sure it will be on the Rise as the population gets Older.

Monday, February 04, 2008

QUESTION TO GO

If you won a million dollars and had to spend ALL of it — every last penny, what would you spend it on?

Your answer starts here ……………….
What’s Your Answer? You can get the Question To Go Question here!
What is the Question To Go? Read about it here!
The point of the Question To Go is to take the both the question and answer on your own site, then visit the sites of those who are participating. First, copy the Question To Go , then fill out your info in the Mister Linky box so we know who is playing along today. Don’t forget to leave a link to your Question To Go in the comments of the blogs you visit.QUESTION TO GO
If you won a million dollars and had to spend ALL of it — every last penny, what would you spend it on?
Your answer starts here ……………….

If I had a million dollars, I would invest it as I can make much more then a million in interest without touching the Principal. but if I were to have to spend it...

I would purchase a Vacation place, somewhere off the Beaten path, as it were, fund my sideline appropriately or even open a shop! I like keeping busy, so I would do only what I love. I'd buy a car.

Saturday, February 02, 2008

Another day Underground



I spent yet another fruitless day trying to forget the pain in my hand while trying to get the bike sorted out. Somehow, the Carborator got loosened up and there is some sort of rubber strap? that holds it onto the head ( I've been told this is standard for Shovelheads but can't find the diagram in the Manual.I still can't make a fist but that should subside in the next 2-3 days. Actual work is Uneventful but in my condition I should count my Blessings. If the local H-D dealer is Open tomarrow, I'll see if they know. I also have to get the paperwork for the car assembled to send it off. Total Loss! Luckily, I'm Insured so I should get something. I might be buying a new car sooner then I planned. C'et la Vie.

Friday, February 01, 2008

QUESTION TO GO
If you could do it all over again, would you? Why? Why not? (oh, and you’ll have to tell us what ‘it’ is)
Your answer starts here ……………….
What’s Your Answer? You can get the Question To Go here!
What is the Question To Go? Read about it here!
The point of the Question To Go is to take the both the question and answer on your own site, then visit the sites of those who are participating. First, copy the Question To Go , then fill out your info in the Mister Linky box so we know who is playing along today. Don’t forget to leave a link to your Question To Go in the comments of the blogs you visit!

Answer: Yes! I would, hopefully not making half of the mistakes I made the first time around! OOPS! Life, that is. . .

Wednesday, January 30, 2008

A Small Note...

Paperlilies has decided to temporarily slow down on the blogging so she might be able to Have A Life. She is part of this site and will occasionally post. (& Vlog) It's on the blogroll. In other news, my right hand is the color of eggplant and It's too weak to use. I'm using Arnica ointment and hoping. I arranged to do desk duty tomorrow so I can pay back a Mutual (don't ask) so wish me luck I'll need it.
That's My Answer- the Blog edition.

I usually check out a blog site called That's My Answer.Today, I'm posting a question that was here and you can check out the many answers there are:

QUESTION TO GO

What three things are on your desk right now that shouldn’t be?

Coffee Cup

Atomic Clock that I fixed to display EST

Bottle of Waterbed conditioner (from when I had a waterbed- anybody need one?)
Saying Goodbye to my baby-Totalled!

The guy at the body shop said that the car "would cost more to repair than it's worth" Yesterday. with my right still swollen & useless, I cleaned her out & said goodbye. I know it's a thing but I drove her off the lot new 7 years ago. I took care of her and she took care of me! I don't know what the future holds, but I will always remember my first new car!

Sunday, January 27, 2008

Into every Life, a little Rain must fall. . .

I crashed my car yesterday into the rear of a woman who had stopped to turn just over a blind hill. She didn't signal, but that doesn't matter as a rear-end collision is always the fault of the person who hit. The front end of my beautiful car was destroyed. Thank God I was wearing my seatbelt & the airbags deployed. My right hand is swollen twice normal size and I can only type. No one was hurt as well. I have coverage but It will be a struggle nonetheless. Both of us have Allstate so at least this will be fairly easy. The next few days will be busy.