"Tickets for Tots"

About eight years ago, the Azle Police Department participated in a wonderful program called "Tickets for Tots" to help underprivileged children in the community (and the cops too) have a great and wonderful Christmas. The program was very simple: Cops would be working traffic detail, you come by speeding, cop stops you and you get a citation or a warning. If you got a warning, the cop would also hand out a "Tickets for Tots" form asking for a toy donation. The toy was not in lieu of a citation because the officers had already made up his / her mind to issue a warning. The toy was voluntary and was totally up to the "violator" to participant or not to participant. Our first year, we were overwhelmed with the program's success. Hundreds of toys came in and we were able to help many, many families that first year. The second year was even better and the cops really got into it also...they saw the need in the community and they saw this program as a positive for so many deserving children within our little town. Then, Christmas of 2002 the program got cut...we were told it was silly and that it was illegal. We were told that the Azle Police Department would have no dealings whatsoever with such a program. Well, I'm not stupid, we had had an attorney review and our judge, who just happens to be a "big civil liberties" guy had signed off on it and gave thier blessings. However, someone else did not give it the blessing that it so deserved. Many kids have gone without over the years because this program got cut, but what not is mentioned is the hearts of the officers and dispatchers got cut too. I remember one year we had a present wrapping party. Everybody got together in the council chambers and wrapped the presents...we were there forever...all night long sometimes. The feeling of comradery, the feeling of community, civil service , and civic pride came alive in that room and so many times I lhave longed for that feeling again. But it never came, after July 15, 2002, it never came again for the Azle Police Department. Chief Steven Kay Myers squashed this and so many other programs because of his personal beliefs, thoughts, feelings, whatever. Nonetheless, this program went by the wayside, or wait...did it?????. That's right...that is "our" little program started in Azle about 8 years ago. This story by Bud Kennedy is both pleasing and heart wrenching to read. So much goodness came from the program, so much effort, desire and heart from our community and our officers...all gone...under the lack of leadership of one man....sad...sad...sad... I say good luck to Samsom Park and Chief White...I do think its a little funny that Samsom Park Police Department has a more forward thinking Chief of Police than the City of Azle, a city about three times larger, has had in a very long time.

HERE COMES THE SUN....SUN, SUN, SUN, HERE IT COMES....

I'm on day shift now...I start in the morning. We are going to 12-hour shifts starting in the morning. I will be working 2 days on, 2 days off, 3 days on, 3 days off...meaning every other weekend I get off.

It also means that instead of working 10 days in a 14 day pay period, I will only be working 7 days. That gives me 7 days off in a pay period instead of only 4. Good times....

I liked midnight shift, but I am ready to go to days when it is light outside. I still have a hard time navigating around in some of the neighborhoods. This will give me some good time to learn the city streets more before I have to go back to nights. I don't think that shift change will be until June.

So wish me well, got to go clean my sunglasses....

I got a Winnie the Pooh thingy...

Jayden playing with his Winnie the Pooh toy...

Jayden says "Hi"

While sitting on his grandpa's lap, Jayden just wanted to waive to everyone and tell everyone hello and have a safe and Happy New Year.

Here he is with his "Petie", when his grandpa was about his age, he had a Petie and he was my bestest friend.

My wonderful daughters.

Nap time!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

I wish each and everyone a blessed and wonderful Chirstmas Day.

Greg

Live from Keeter !!!, it's Saturday Night !!!!

• Saturday night in Keeter, Texas...it is not such a happening place.
• I learned today that my department is considering going to 12 hours shifts, 12 hours = mixed emotions.
• This blog thing is really nice...I said I wanted some "We say Merry Christmas bumper stickers" and poof, I got some bumper stickers in the mail...(thanks for the hookup to my most Bad A brother in law)
• I want a new 4-door Jeep.
• My wife has officially went to "Def con 70" on her baking. We now have more cookies than I believe I have ever seen.
• I am finally getting my wide screen TV tomorrow...I can't wait..Santa Clause is sooooo cool.
• I worked evening shift today, 2PM = 70 degrees, 10PM = 40 degrees...what the heck is going on?
• Both my cats (Christine's cats)are retarded...plain and simple...it is just the way it is.
• When I got home tonight, my wife had hot potato soup ready for me...good soup, better wife.
• I want a new 4 door Jeep.
• I went to my buddies 40th suprise birthday party last night, good times, better Margritas.
• Speaking of margritas, I had four jsut to make sure that they were good ones...yep...they were good ones.
• I'm not a big sports guy...can' talk sports, can't really get into the sports scene...however...I know without a doubt that the Dallas Cowboys suck.
• I have always wanted to watch "LOST" however, it is one of those shows that you really need to get into from the start. I started watching it several years ago (pre DVR era) and missed some episodes so I just quit watching...now ABC.COM has all episodes on line...I'm at Season 1, episode 12, good times.
• I listen to "Coast to Coast AM radio" during the night shift...all my shift buddies do to. And when something cool is being discussed, we talk about it on our MDTs (mobile computers). We where all looking forward to Thursday night's show (it was going to be ghost talk caught on audio tape) but the people had technical difficulties and had to cancel, we turned to another radio station as a united front to show our disapproval.
• Went and saw "The day the earth stood still" it was okay, but the original is still better.
• I want a new 4 door Jeep.
• I used the "Big Easy" for the first time, worked like a champ.
• I saw Carolers tonight driving though a very exclusive neighborhood on a real buckboard wagon with hay bails being drawn by two large beautiful horses. I stopped and listened to them as they stopped at a couple of houses. It now feels like Christmas to me.
• The blessings continue...thanks

My Monday Morning Ramblings

• As I sit here and type, I have a cat kneading my neck...
• Next year, I am going to wrap the pipes before it gets cold and windy. I just came in from outside, it is 30 degrees with winds 15 to 20 mph, the wind chill is 20 degrees.
• My wife is in the Christmas cooking mood right now, I'm going to put on some weight, I just know it.
• There was a shooting in Fair Park Dallas over the weekend. A fifteen year old boy got shot. It was at "Kwanzaafest". Nothing says happy holidays like all the gangsta boyz shooting in tha hood during Kwanzaa...ya know wha Im say N?
• Ex Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk is "up for selection" by the Obama administration as the new Secretary of Education. Dallas ISD was just named worst ISD in the State of Texas. Dallas ISD students that will not graduate and/or just plain drop out is now over 50%. Not that the Mayor has anything to do with the local ISD, I just thought it would be funny to say that the "new" Secretary of Education once was the mayor of Dallas who by the way has the worst school district in Texas.
• William Ayers, Jeremiah Wright and Rod Blogojevich, boy, our new President has some great friends.
• I listen to Coast to Coast radio show during the night shift, I love hearing about Bigfoot and Ghost and Aliens.
• I went to Azle City Hall today, man what a drain down that was.
• I took Megan out for her birthday this week, I enjoyed our time so much. She is such a beautiful young lady, and I love her so much. I thank God everyday, that she made it through her teen years.
• I got to see my handsome, kick "A" grandson this week also, he is such a big boy.
• I just moved the cat away from my neck, she came right back and it know kneading my temple and hair.
• Its my weekend...and Christine and I are going to spend some quality time together Wednesday morning...she is leaving for the holidays and it is the last time we will get to spend time together before she leaves this weekend. We are going to go see a movie and go some place nice to eat.
• My blessings continue, and for that, I am most greatful.

Take care, blog soon...

G

The Day After Hump Day Thoughts

• I finally had to turn the heater on in the well house today...winter has arrived!
• Is it a good thing when your wife wants a gun for Christmas?
• The January schedule at work finally came out, I'll be going to day shift January 2, 2009.
• My middle daughter turns 20 Saturday. Thank God she made it through her teenage years.
• I have candles at my house, lots and lots of candles.
• There was a party last night that involved some underage drinking. When I ask the home owner why she was allowing this to go on, she stated that due to her house being so big, she could not keep up with who and what everyone in the house was doing...good grief.
• Just to let you know, at 3:45am, it is cold.
• I have received over 10 calls since I have been "cut loose", and I have not had to look at my map book yet.
• I can drink Racetrac hot chocolate all night long...I likes me some Racetrac hot chocolate.
• We have stats to keep up with at HVPD. You need to average 5 this and 5 thats and 5 thoses , each shift, and so on, with only two days worked this month, I'm above average so far, I got 7 thats last night.
• The cats and I are on the same sleeping schedule right now, it is really going to throw them off when I switch to days.
• I went to Wal Mart today, it is the first time I've been in a store since the "holiday season" is in full swing...two words...damn it.
• I wonder if the Rosetta Stone language software is worth the money.
• Christine and I went to Highland Village's Village Glows festival Tuesday night, what a nice time we had and the 35 foot Christmas tree is beautiful on the square.
• I want a Bill O'Reilly bumper sticker that says " I say Merry Christmas".
• I like the new show "Secret Millionaire".
• Happy Birthday to Jethro "Max Baer Jr" of the Beverly Hillbillies.
• We have a night vision monocular to use on midnight shift, I watched satellites in space last night, way cool. I thought at first it was an UFO and then I was able to "identify" it. At least I think I did.
• I like Beyonce's new song about "It you liked it, then you should have put a ring on it" , I am now learning the choreography, so I can break out at the Christmas party.
• You know you've slept good and hard when you wake up and you don't even know where you are, what time it is or what day it is. That happens sometimes to me even when I have had nothing to drink.
• It is official, Red, Hot and Blues, is the best BBQ ever...
• You just got through reading random thoughts from a very blessed man...

Till next time,

G

I am finally "CUT LOOSE"

Well, I made it, final phase, cut loose, E.O.T., on my own, cut loose...I passed training. Tonight will be my first night in Highland Village on my own. My own car (Unit 422), my own streets, turn when I want, go here or there when I want...I get to have my bag in the front seat with me, finally. Being cut loose has both its positives and negatives. The positives are some of the things listed above, like, I get to do what I want, go where I want, wherever I want...the Independence of being your own person and making your own decisions. However, the down side to all of that is you loose your "security blanket" your FTO (filed training officer). I have had three of the best FTOs I believe I could have ever had. Not only were they my trainers, but now they are my partners and friends. So it is with mixed emotions I venture out on my own tonight...I'll find my way...it is still just so new and exciting for me. A few things that should be mentioned about the HVPD FTO program that I must pass along to all those who read this here blog....

• If your FTO just got coffee, be very careful how you drive.
• If your FTO just got coffee, don't make him laugh so hard the coffee comes out of his nose...I have been informed that that really burns.
• Don't "lock out" the FTO's windows...it makes them feel like they are "not in charge".
• Don't review your FTO's reports and point out their mistakes...it hurts their sensitive self esteem and macho image.
• Don't hide your FTO's thumb drive....man, that really gets them going.
• Don't hog the MDC (vehicles computer)...you must share.
• When you turn on your 3 million candle power spot light, make sure it is not facing your FTO's eyes.
• When you and your FTO go for a midnight cruse on the golf cart, don't run his side through the sprinklers....because while you are laughing, they are not.
• Don't stand in front of the complainant, while your FTO is behind the complainant making faces...and laugh...you'll be called names.
• Don't ever lay your vehicle keys down around your FTO...they wont be there when you need them.
• When you are through with the computer, make sure you sign out...if you don't your FTO might send an email to the Captain and Chief using your sign on name. The email might be very sweet and caring.
• "Work in circles"
• Listen to every word and take all their advise, because through it all, their number one concern is your success.

To each of my FTO's...thanks from the bottom of my heart. I will do my very best to not let you down.

G

I'm thankful

HAPPY THANKSGIVING !

Things I am thankful for this Thanksgiving

• My wonderful family, my wife, mother, daughters and beautiful grandson.
• My wonderful fantastic job.
• Although my wife seems to think I am on my death bed, I am very thankful for my health.
• Good friends.
• An appetite for good pumpkin pie with a pecan strudel glaze on top.
• Very good economical vehicles that are paid off (thats the best part).
• Low debt.
• A warm (sometimes too warm) house in the winter and a cold one in the summer.
• Food in the pantry and back room.
• Peace in this Country, at least for now.
• Two healthy little kittens that get on my nerves and don't let me sleep, but they bring a smile to my wife's face and that's good enough for me.
• I'm thankful I had the opportunity to work in Azle, Texas.
• I'm thankful I had the opportunity to retire from Azle, Texas.
• I'm thankful that I feel confident I am going to have a wonderful future.
• I'm thankful to be able to have a nice TV to watch "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving".
• I'm thankful that the Dallas Cowboys are winning right now.

To each and everyone, have a very good day and happy holidays.

Greg

Happy Holidays

Nine whole years and counting

Approximately 9 years and 45 minutes ago, I married my very best friend. I can't say it has been a bed of roses these past nine years, but I would say it has been a bed of tulips at the very least.

The following is a VERY brief re-cap of the past nine years that have brought both happiness and sadness, but nonetheless, it is our life...a view from inside our own little part of heaven. Some of these are only one words...but they really say alot - to us anyway.

• Country life..
• The attack of the "Killer Ginny Hen"
• Skunks...skunks....skunks...SKUNKS...
• Cousin It tree take down
• Remodel
• Travel Miles
• Alaska
• Las Vegas
• South Carolina
• Georgia
• Florida
• Grandma and Nanny
• Northside
• China Doll
• Sentra = Conservative
• BASEBOARDS...ON MY GOD...THE FRIGGIN %^&$#$% BASEBOARDS
• Boat
• Tent Camper
• Coupons cutting
• Lia Sofia
• Socks
• Seps and Turbs..." Yes Honey, I'm okay!!!!!"
• Gall Bladder
• Don't drops weights on your big toes
• Don't leave rabbits in the heat and go away to class...they will die
• Goats
• ED the Emu
• Warm Cookies
• Turtle Cheesecake
• Fresh baked cupcakes
• " Millie "
• Oil cans in shoeboxes, they are good boxes...really
• Cleaning out barns for the 7th time
• Wood floors
• Picking the runt of the litter is not always so bad
• Short hair ain't that bad
• "Buta anyway sa Christie"
• I like being a "Punkin Noodle", I really didn't think I would, but really....its not that bad.
• When your job sucks....your home life sucks
• When your job is cool...your home life becomes better
• I love you and thanks for sticking with me for 9 years....
• I look forward to the next nine and the next and "so on and so forth"...

Hump Day Thoughts

• Today is "My Happy 9th Anniversary" eve.
• I finally noticed the leaves are really beginning to change colors here in North Texas.
• I'm not really sure if it is "leaves" or "leafs"...either way I know you know what I was talking about.
• Midnight shift ain't bad...the hours aren't kicking my rear like I thought they would.
• My wife brought some new fandangled cat hair picker upper gadget home tonight, the thing works pretty darn good. I think I am going to go into business making wigs or full body pelts for bald cats...I have enough hair right now to help out most bald cats in this country.
• Since I am adapting well to being awake during the night, I am beginning to wonder if my suprachiasmatic nuculi has somehow been damaged over the years...or if I just have very good ones.
• The 2007 Texas Crime Statistics came out recently, information that is published by the Texas Department of Public Safety from information local law enforcement departments provide to them. Azle's crime statistics are appalling.
• I am off tomorrow, Christine and I are going to a very nice restaurant for our anniversary.
• I saw gasoline for $1.63 today.
• I find the "Google Maps Street View" both cool and creepy as all get out.
• A DVR is a life saver if you work the midnight shift.
• I see more rabbits running around in the village at night that I ever could have imagined. Hundreds of them, all over the place.
• Most nights when Christine and I come home from eating or the store, we see deer in our front yard.
• It really is going to be weird working the holiday season.
• Je suis béni plus que n'importe quel homme devrait être!!!!

Dairy Queen Trivia

• In 1940, the first Dairy Queen store opened in Joliet, Illinois.
• The Dairy Queen in Rhome, Texas employees idiots.
• Banana Splits appeared on the DQ menu in 1951.
• The Dairy Queen in Rhome, Texas employees idiots.
• The first Dairy Queen opened in Canada in 1953.
• The Dairy Queen in Rhome, Texas employees idiots.
• In 1955, the "Dilly Bar" is introduced.
• The Dairy Queen in Azle, Texas is filthy and the color of their lettuce is NOT green.
• The first Dairy Queen to open in Mexico in 1991.
• The Dairy Queen in Azle, Texas is filthy and the color of their lettuce is NOT green.
• The "Blizzard" is introduced in 1985.
• The Dairy Queen in Azle, Texas is filthy and the color of their lettuce in NOT green.

Just a little DQ trivia...just thought you would all like to know.

Trailer Shopping

I'm in the market for a travel trailer. I never knew there were so many models. I like the bumper pulls but I think I like some of the smaller goosenecks also. It seems as those types have a little more room because of the "bed over" design. I've learned a bunch about trailers today, winterizing, blocking, auto levels, propane / electric fridges and pottie rooms. So many choices and designs. The reason for the trailer is not so much for camping and vacationing, do not really have the time for that, plus if my wife travels, it always involves airplanes.

It is because of the 80 miles I drive each day and winter is coming and I do not want to get snowed (iced) in or out of work. There is the best camp site inside HV city limits who will let me stay there free during inclimate weather plus any other times at a reduced rate. Even with gas going down ($1.75 a gallon) right now, one week a month in the trailer would save a lot of money and time traveling.

We will see how is goes, I just know with whatever I buy, it has to have enough room for the kittens when they and their mommy comes to the lake to visit for the weekend.

Day After Hump Day Thoughts

• I watched the CMAs when I got home last night, boy the DVR is really paying off right now since I am working all kind of weird hours.
• Cary Underwood is absolutely stunning.
• I just dont get Kenny Chesney.
• George Strait really is the "King"
• Why does Sugarland's singer Jennifer Nettles keep the guy with the weird cowboy hat around?
• I really like Trace Adkins song " Your going to miss this"
• Did I mention that Cary Underwood is stunning?
• Nothing weird really happen during the actual full moon night, I guess the moon thing is just a bunch of hype. We will see how the next month goes.
• The gym thing is going pretty good.
• I start midnight shift next Monday...it has been a long time since I have worked deep nights.
• I am really not ready for the holidays.
• The Shops at Highland Village has one of the biggest Christmas Trees I have ever seen. "Our Village Glows" is going to beat the shops this year, I can't wait to see that thing light up.
• Christine and I went to see the movie "Role Models" funny in a very goofy way, but, nonetheless funny.
• Did I mention that the best BBQ around is Red, Hot and Blue, I hadme some Sunday.
• Just so you all will know, AOR #3 has a 78% "Neighborhood E Watch" participation.
• I think my little truck is going to need a brake job before too long.
• I came home the other night from work and my sweet little wife had the heat turned on in the house to just under "hell" on the thermostat. I thought I was going to have to open up the windows in the house just to be able to breathe.
• I put up a brand new American Flag on our flag pole today, our Texas flag was getting too faded. I like looking out the front door or driving up our driveway and seeing "Old Glory" waving in the breeze.
• Just in case I did not mention it, I wanted to make sure you knew that I think Cary Underwood is amazing.
• For just under the past nine years, I have been married to the most wonderful person in the world...I love her so much...November 20 will be nine whole years...and "they" said it would not last.
• It should also be noted that I think my wife is just as, if not soooooo much more friggin Hawt as Sarah Palin and Cary Underwood.
• I can not beleive how blessed I am in so many ways each and every day.

A Full Moon

Everytime there is a full moon, you here news reports of hospitals being more busy, crazy things happening and so on. I always thought "whatever"...I really didn't see a change in police reports, arrest data, etc...to substantiate the theory that crazy things happened on a full moon night.

As you all know, I've been a desk jockey for the past several years, not outside actually dealing with the "full-moon atmosphere". Well let me tell you something, if last night in Highland Village is a precursor to what is going to happen tonight, there just might be something to all this hype about full moon = crazy crap happening.

Last night, "full moon eve" I believe I met each and every weird person who lives in Highland Village. I can't go into too much detail however, I now have memories that will never fade away.

Lets say the following may have occured while I may have worked last night.

• Talking to a lady who bridge kept popping up and down, she kept pushing it back in with her tongue...it is very distracting not to mention her shirt was so low cut that her yahoo kept falling out too. Again, very distracting.
• Talking to kids who ride their skateboards in the house. When a kids does this, evidently the parents want us to solve that problem. The dialogue goes a little something like this...

OFFICER "What can I do for you?"

PARENT "My kids rides his skateboard in the house"

OFFICER "okay"

PARENT "We would like for you to tell him that he can't ride his skateboard in the house"

OFFICER "No problem, where is the kid"

PARENT "In his room, I'll go get him"

OFFICER " Hey kid, your parents don't want you to ride your skateboard in the house"

KID "Okay"

PARENT " Thank you so much officer for coming by and doing this for us"

OFFICER" No Problem"

Can you believe I get paid for this??????

• Lesbians in the nail salon after hours...they really really really REALLY should have locked the door.
• If you pick up "whores on Craig's list" you might get crabs...FYI, no criminal offense has occurred with this scenario.
• If you take a cell phone away from your 16 year old daughter and she argues with you about it, give me a call, I'll come over and tell your 16 year old daughter to quit arguing with you (can you believe I get paid for this???)
• If your brother is crazy, I can not put him jail. Even if he is asleep in his room and that would make it easier to "sneak up on him and put the handcuffs on"
• I can not "fingerprint" a beer can that you found in your front yard after it has rained. Also, trash and evidence can be the same item, but not in this case, trash is trash.

Tonight is the "real" full moon, there is no telling what will happen.

Later

The Day After Hump Day Thoughts

• It is sorta neat living through a historical event.
• Barack Hussein Obama was elected President of the United States of America, that gives me shivers just to write that.
• If a man is half black and half white, why does he only claim the black part? Why does the media only say "The first African American President? Why don't they say, the first half and half President?
• I really feel sad for Sarah Palin, I hope she is as Hawt in 2012 as she is right now.
• I can not believe that Lupe Valdez won the Dallas County Sheriff's race. She is a nut job. Not because she is a woman, not because she is a democrat, not because she is Hispanic, nor is it because she is a lesbian, it is just the mere fact she is a nut job.
• Yesterday was my last day on day shift for a while. I like the midnight shift, but evenings is a beating.
• My little Nissan Pickup is averaging 27.5 MPG.
• Gas in the area is averaging about $2.05 per gallon, I still see it around $2.20 at some places and last night I saw it as low as $1.96.
• My cousin is getting married this Saturday. When she was born, I took her to Tandy Center one day, she was only a couple of months old then, it seems like yesterday and now all of a sudden she is all grown up, starting a family and I feel so old. Congratulations and Best Wishes LaDayna.
• If a vacuum cleaner really "sucked", would that mean it is a good one?
• My new favorite Bar B Que Restaurant is "Red, Hot and Blue" it is some of the best BBQ I have ever eaten.
• I can not believe it is the "Holiday Season" already, I've already seen a Christmas commercial on TV.
• I conducted a traffic stop yesterday. a lady was driving 37 MPH in a 20MPH school zone, talking on a cell phone (ordinance violation during school zone hours), she did not have her DL with her, she was not wearing a seat belt, her tags were out of date and when she put on her brakes to pull over, she had a brake light out, that is a total of six violations. As I walked up to her Benz SUV, she asked "Is there a problem officer?", I laughed.
• By the way, she got three citations and three warnings...I'm a nice guy, what can I say.
• One of the things that I do each and every day is stop by some folks houses that have there garage doors open and remind them that it is open and warn them that a burglary can happen in a matter of seconds, 99% of people I talk to are very appreciative of this service and say how proud they are of the police department's efforts to make Highland Village the "Safest City in Texas". I smile real big as I walk back to my patrol car.
• Just to give you an example, The Azle News reported last week that Azle, Texas, population 11000 is expecting to have over 100 car burglaries (BMVs)this year. I looked up Highland Village's BMV rate for the year and we have had 7, oh yea, Highland Village's population is 17000, plus we have acres and acres of retail parking lots, Azle does not. I totally believe that this rate is 100% dependent upon the proactive Value Based Policing Model that the Highland Village Police Department adopts each and every day.
• And as each and everyone of you knows, I am a very blessed man and for that, I am so grateful.

Two more Halloween Pics

Happy Halloween

Just wanted to wish everyone a safe and Happy Halloween. Boo from me to you.

This pic on the left is from several years ago...Cerissa and Megan looking to score a lot of candy.

Now lets talk about the pic on the right....

this is actually me when I was about 10 or 11. One of my favorite shows was the Adams Family. And my mom, being the coolest around...made me this great "Cousin It" outfit. She worked all day and all night on this thing.

We loaded up in the car to get ready to go to my school's Halloween party and I was too embarrassed to get out of the car. I didn't want anyone to see me and laugh at me. Man, did my mom get so mad at me.

Looking back at it now, this was the coolest, especially after all the work and time my mom spent on it...but back then I just did not thing so.

Anyway, I owe you an apology mom, its about 3o years late, but I am sorry.

Day After Hump Day Thoughts

• I actually went to the above house this week. The guy left his Hummer H3T unlocked and had a pair of $750 sunglasses stolen. ($750 sunglasses)
• Thursday is "my" new Saturday.
• I want to see the following movies: 1) Saw V, 2) Changeling, 3) Quarantine
• An officer got a police report kicked back after a review from a supervisor for having "conflicting verbs" in a sentence. Improper sentence structure is a big no no at HVPD.
• Scenic Drive in Highland Village intersects itself at "three" different intersections...look it up, really....not only do I need to brush up on my English, Geography is a beating as well.
• Last Sunday's Extreme Home Makeover made me cry like a baby...very, very, very sweet story.
• I went to the doctor today, I officially have a cold. I also officially have a very sore left butt cheek.
• The HVPD won an IACP (International Association of Chief's of Police) for Excellence in Community Policing due to our Value Based Policing Model. The IACP are the "Worldwide Big Boys" Although the Value Based Policing Model is a little difficult to grasp at first, once I get the hang of it, I know it will be the most awesome style of policing I have ever been involved with. The week the Terrell Police Department adopted this same concept and style of policing, it was developed by my command staff...get you some!!!!
• Remember when I wrote about the SWEAT program getting their name on a big plaque at Central Park in Azle??? Well, the sign is up, but no SWEAT name on it...this story is developing. SWEAT's name will be on it, if I have to get a paint can and spray it on. Freakin Idiots!!!!!
• I went and voted last Thursday at the Wise County Convention Center...no matter how many times I vote, I still feel a sense of pride in my accomplishment of voting and for some reason I always think of veterans when I vote. Without them, I might not be able to.
• I joined LA Fitness in Highland Village, I can hardly wait to be start being referred to as "Greg Six-Pack" due to my bad ass abs...
• Like a said in my last post, although things are "different" at HVPD, the differences are amazing. I find myself not believing how much the community and department are really one in the same. It would be very hard to explain how this all works, but trust me. (the value based policing thing)
• I can't get into "My name is Earl". It reminds me too much of life in Azle.
• The weather in Texas has been the best for the past Month. Lows in the 50s and highs in the 70s. Christine is VERY particular about the windows being open, there are only a few days a year that everything is "just right" for her...tonight is one of those nights...the windows are open.
• I HOPE the CHANGE on November 4th will be McCain and Palin...He is a pretty cool old man and she is soooooo Hawt.
• I like beans and cornbread...it is my favorite...I am having that tonight...my wife is the best.
• I do not like the lesbian twist in this year's Greys Anatomy story line.
• When I ride the electric police vehicle in Highland Village, I do not feel like a dork. Riding around in a supped up golf cart is pretty neat. I even went to a call in it the other day.
• My favorite book of the Bible is "Job".
• I am so proud of my oldest daughter Cerissa, her school is going good, she is making good grades and she is a wonderful mother. I know she is getting her act together and growing up...I smile when I think about it all.
• I'm blessed and for that, I am extremely grateful.

Its been awhile.

It has been awhile since my last post and thought I would sign in and post a little bit of information. First and foremost, let me say that my "new" job is absolutely wonderful. The other officers, the command staff, and the people of the community are just wonderful folks. It is alot different than Azle in soooooooo many ways. Different styles of policing, different policies and procedures, different ways and saying the same thing. It is taking my a few weeks to adjust to all the many differences, but each one of them are positive. It is taking me a little longer than I would like to learn the city geography. There are many winding, curving roadways and streets that all wind back into one another. There are no "basic gridded" neighborhoods in Highland Village, not one. And because of that, it is really confusing at times. It is also confusing learning the many A.O.R.s (Areas of Responsibilities) in town too. Not only do you need to know what street your on and district, it is important to know what AOR you are in as well. Even though I think I am having somewhat of a difficult time, I did score very good on a geography test last week. I have a great F.T.O.(feild training officer) he has been an officer in Highland Village for almost 5 years and I can tell he knows his stuff. We have become friends and that helps through the FTO program. I only have one more week with him and then I will be transferred to evenings with a different FTO for two more weeks and then another FTO for the final phase, I am due to be "cut loose" from training on December 1 and I will be flying solo. Things are going very good and I am loving every minute of it. Just wanted to get everyone updated...thanks again for all your support and prayers through this transition. Talk soon.... G

My First Day !!!

Today I started all over again. My first day of the 'rest of my life'. I didn't really want to start over, not at this stage of the game. I've been doing this for 21 years, why would I start over? Whatever fork in the road I took to lead me to this 'new' adventure, was the right choice. I've been known not to make the right choices over the years,but this my friends, seems to be the perfect choice. I was burnt out, a dinosaur, a crusty old "brasshead". I was spent, tired of fighting all the BS, it was putting a strain on many things in my life, friendships, relationships...my whole attitude was different. I was turning into the cop I never wanted to become and I decided that the road I was headed down was just a dead end. Today is the first day to start over for me, a second chance to NOT become the cop I was becoming...to not have a bad attitude, the chance to have the same feeling I did 21 years ago the very first time I sat behind the wheel of a brand new 1988 Ford Crown Victoria (man that thing was a boat) with red and blue light on top...and today was just like it was 21 years ago. All the same feelings came back, the smile, the pride, the excitement, the honor...it all came back in a flood of emotions that was very hard to control. For the first time in over six-years, I had "my" Chief of Police tell me he was "proud to have me on board". I had fellow officers come up to me and smile and say "welcome" , "glad to have you here" , "look forward to working with you". As I took a simple "Oath of Office" tears welled up in me as I swore to uphold the laws and rules of my County, my State, and my Community. The pride came back and it was all so hard to contain. As the day progressed and met more and more co-workers and supervisors who said the same things, all day long, over and over again and I felt a connection to the department and community immediately and I can't wait until tomorrow. I'm upset that I am going to have two days off a week, I truly feel like a rookie" again and I was so worried I would not. I'm not sure why God continues to bless me, but I'm not going to complain...I can truly say that this is one of the very best times of my life. I've got the best wife a man could ask for, three wonderful children, who I love more that I can ever express, a grandson who is healthy and a joy, a mother who cares for me and friends that have stood by me through this difficult process. I get to say something now that I have not been able to say in a very very long time...I love my job, I know that this is going to be fantastic. I'm looking so forward to more and more and returning to the person I once was, the husband, son, friend and father that I once was. I'm blessed.

The Mellow Mushroom Review

Picture yourself in a boat on a river, With tangerine trees and marmalade skies Somebody calls you, you answer quite slowly, A girl with kaleidoscope eyes...

Okay maybe a little overboard but once you walk into this restaurant you quickly get the feeling of the 60s quirky psychedelic vibes.

Spring water pizza dough with names like "Magical Mystery Tour", "Kosmic Karma" and the "Gourmet White" after the "White Album" by the Beatles you get the hint of the culture of the eating joint. They even have a cow outside painted with bright colors and the words "peace and love" painted in the horns.

Aside from the theme, the food and service are good. The place was very crowded (we parked in the parking lot of an apartment complex across the street) but were seated immediately in the outside patio area. Since the weather was great, no problems eating outside (except for the flys)

We ordered the salads, wings and then had two small pizzas and all were pretty good. The wings were typical appetizer quality but still good but the pizzas were much better , especially the crust. Not your typical Domino's or Pizza Hut crust here, no sir...old school hand tossed cooked on stone crust.

I'm not so sure how the food ties in to the theme other than the names of some of the dishes, but nonetheless and pretty good restaurant, service, cleanliness, and atmosphere.

I give the Mellow Mushroom a 4 on the scale.

We will go back, but I'm not going to have to go tomorrow.

Moms Moved

My mom got moved today to a wonderful little townhouse Downtown Ft. Worth. She is .9 miles from her parking garage at Radio Shack Corp. I'm so proud of her, she has wanted to move downtown for quite awhile and today she did it. Policeman Movers moved her in record time, were very polite and on time. She said she would recommend this service to anyone. The neighborhood is very nice and quiet and the parking lot is in a secured area, each resident must have a access key to get into the parking garage area. City Center Security patrols the area regularly and are very visible. I feel comfortable with her living there. This is the actual pic of her house...congratulations mom.

Hump Day Thoughts

• Even though 'Nuttin but Strings' did not win America's got Talent, Neil E. Boyd made me enjoy Opera and I would see his show in Vegas.
• My wife is going to her '20th' High School Reunion in a couple of weeks. Her and Heather will be hooking up with some cool t shirts...I'm so glad I'm not going, I would be so out of place.
• I cried when the yellow Dad and Daughter team got split up on The Biggest Loser last night, but at least the daughter still got a chance, and the Dad has done great on his own...he lost over 70 lbs. and the final show is still weeks away.
• I thought the David Blaine show was stupid.
• The Season Premier of Grey's Anatomy was weak in my opinion.
• I watch way too much TV.
• Christine and I went to the Fort Worth Zoo today and even rode the Trinity Park mini-train...we had a great time. It has been forever since I have been to the zoo and I learned it is the oldest zoo in Texas.
• My allergies are kicking my rear.
• It is really beginning to sink in, I'm starting a new job Monday.
• It is really beginning to sink in, I miss all my old work buddies.
• My mom is moving Saturday to this great town home in downtown Ft. Worth...I'm a little jealous...Christine and I both think it would be way too cool to live downtown.
• I usually cry when they "MOVE THAT BUS" on Extreme Home Makeover. (I watch way too much TV)
• I picked up my uniforms from HVPD last week, but I had to take them to my own personal alterations lady, because the pants looked like bell bottoms.
• I cleaned out my Ford truck tool box, I found stuff I didn't know I had.
• We now have several shelving units in our back bedroom, they are full with "Coupon Task Force Operations" goodies.
• Azle Police Department's Chaplin is Glyn Murphy, he performed Christine's and my wedding, and when I introduce him to people, I tell them he married me...I get weird looks.
• Bendije más que merezco y eso es realmente grande!!!

Resturant Review

Christine and I have found THE place to eat. It is the Blue Goose Cantina in Highland Village. There are several around in the area, North Dallas, Addison, Lower Greenville and Highland Village. This place is great, atmosphere, food, wait staff, this whole nine yards.

Christine and I went last Saturday to eat there for the first time before we caught a movie right across the street at the Highland Village AMC Theater.

Since the weather has been so great here we decided to eat out on the patio. "Woodie" our waitress was awesome and suggested a couple of dishes for us, not to mention the best Margarita ever...seriously, the best ever!!!

I had the brisket tacos and Chris has the Fajitas De Pollo. Everything was fantastic. The brisket tacos are just that, brisket, slow cooked and with this great smoke flavor and cilantro and a bit of onion. Nothing else on this taco, you did not need one other thing.

This past Saturday we went again, and this time Chris has the brisket tacos and I had Tacos al Fresca which was blackened Tilapia, a bean sauce and cheese wrapped in home made flour tortilla, absolutely fantastic. We also had an appetiser of a fondue dish that was a little greasy but again tasted fantastic.

Living in North Texas and growing up on the Northside of Fort Worth, I have had some great Mexican food...La Palma, Joe T's, Panchos (ha ha just kidding) Chuy's, etc...but this by far is the best Mexican restaurant I have ever eaten at. It really isn't authentic (like Joe T's) but not Tex Mex either...just right, and did I mention the Margaritas...Holy Cow!!!!

We had another awesome waitress with this cool tattoo on her thigh...I know, I know, but really it was very cool and did not look trashy at all. Cool attitude, cool personality, the whole works, just great.

1 being the best on my scale...definitely, a 1, no doubt about it. Anyone who visits us from out of town will be eating at this place guaranteed. So get ready to eat some good Mexican food when you come.

I can't wait till this Saturday, I think I'm going to have brisket tacos again, and more than likely a Margarita or two.

25.19 M.P.G. !!!

230.1 miles / 9.131 gallons = 25.19 MPG About 40% highway and 60% city. This week I'm going to put new wires and plugs, oil change, fuel and air filter, just to make sure everything is in tip top shape. I bet I can squeeze 27 or 28 MPG out of her. I'm so glad I am doing my part to not melt the ice caps...Al Gore would be so proud of me....

"Get your motor running, head out on the highway"

Looking for adventure and whatever comes our way...

"Born to be wild"

Zoom...Zoom...Zoom...

Okay...so its not a Mazda...today I bought the most awesome friggin truck in the entire universe...okay, maybe that's a little overboard...but I did buy a sweeeeeeeettttttttt ride. 2001 Nissan Frontier XE Extended Cab with only 82119 miles (will post a pic tomorrow). I bought it from a great elderly gent who "wheels and deals" in used vehicles from time to time. This meets the basic requirements that were needed in my car shopping adventure...it needed to have 4-wheels, (wife's stipulation) - 4 cylinders (eco-friendly) and sweeeeeeettttttt to "fit in" with the others in my new city. It is my opinion that this sweeeeeeeeeetttttt ride of mine puts the Lexus and Benz to shame...just my opinion of course. Christine and I go and pick it up after she gets off work today and we take it to the gas staion to fill her up cause she was sitting on "E". ROCK ON BABY...it only cost me $39 bucks to fill it up. I filled up my F150 today for $89.00 and it was not on empty. We take it for a spin around Ft. Worth, perfect...I put almost 70 miles on it tonight and it really has not moved off of full. I can't wait to see the MPG rate...I'm shooting for around 25...that would be way too cool. Pics in the morning of the sweeeeeeeeetttttttnnnnnneeeeeessssss that is my new pickup.

Get You Some !!!!!

WHAT IS THIS ??????

THATS RIGHT GO ON, TELL ME WHAT IT IS...COME ON...TELL ME.

YEP, YOU GOT IT....THAT WOULD BE MY SHOULDER PATCH ON MY NEW UNIFORM SHIRT.

EAT YOUR HEART OUT....BABY

My Trip to Wal-Mart This Evening

Christine and I go to Wal-Mart often and most times we run into at least one person we know. At times that has been frustrating to me because most of these people know me as their home town cop and usually are asking for something. It should not frustrate me, but at times it really bothered me. I'm off duty (knotondotee)...leave me alone!

Tonight was a different story though, as many times as I have been to Azle Wal-Mart, this has never happened to me. We ran into 9 people we know at the store and not one asked me for anything. First, 9 people and second no one asked me to do anything, pretty creepy and cool at the same time.

It is fun to work in a small town...your not going to get these types of things to happen to you if you work in Houston or Dallas. Working in a small town has its ups and downs, and sometimes the ups or downs depend upon your mood. I guess tonight's episode shared both ups and downs...ups... that I ran into 9 people I know and downs...that no one asked me for anything.

Creepy and Cool all at the same time...

SOLD - 1, very "sentimental" tractor

Well, I did it...fixed up 'Ole Annie' got her back in tip top shape and even put a new seat on her. Yes...she was a mighty fine piece of good old USA machinery.

I have spent many an hour behind the wheel of this fine implement of husbandry...plowing, mending fences, mowing, and grading my driveway, but I just don't need her anymore. Plus for every hour used, is about 3 hours of maintenance.

I remember the day my Grandpa got her...1980 and she had 92 hours on her, I was 15. He bought it and loaded it on a trailer and brought it by Granny Roberson's house in Boyd.

Me and my grandpa worked on this tractor and did jobs around the farm many a day over the years and I'll remember those times forever, good male bonding, good time spent between a young boy and his grandpa.

I put her on Craiglist last night at about 10:00PM, this morning I had 9 emails from people wanting more information. A guy came up at 9:30AM and offered to buy her outright without even starting her up to listen to her purr....I guess it was a good deal I don't know.

I'm not really sure that a tractor should be "sentimental" but this one really is. My grandfather and I spent many an hour working together on the farm using this old tractor. We picked up a lot of hay together, in fact, too much, using this old tractor. I learned to work on it by my grandfather teaching me...changing oil, hydraulic fluids, putting antifreeze in the rear tires on and on. We had many a good time together with this tractor in the background.

So although it is "just" a tractor, it symbolizes quality time spent with the "ole man". I remember when something would go wrong with it, he would say "someday this will be yours and you'll have the headache of fixing it"...thanks for all the headaches...thanks for each and every one of them.

Hump Day Eve...Thoughts

• 21 years ago today, I became a father...
• I like the word "fruition" ...I just like it.

• Beautiful is a three syllable word and so is urinate.

• 7 "working days" into retirement and it sure feels good.

I think I'm going to really get into the new "Biggest Loser" season, its families and I'm pulling for the Father / Daughter team...go yellow!!

If we have any two pieces of paper, papercliped together, our cute adorable Mo cat will find it, remove it and will play with it at 3:30AM every morning. Is that not the most precious $%^#$@$^* thing you've ever HEARD?!?!?!?!!!!!!!

I dont really know why, but I'm hooked on Star Bucks Green Tea..."I'll take a venti iced unsweet green tea please" has a nice ring to it.

I went to a store the other day and saw a lady with a purse...I knew it was a Vera Bradley and that is really sad. I still feel very manly though...

I'm not sure the life of a tick would be very good, if fact, I think it would suck.

I am going hunting tonight...yea...I've got the skunk traps set, peanut butter gets them every time.

Christine and I went a saw Lakeview Terrace with Samuel L. Jackson last Saturday...not bad but I thought it would be better.

David Blaine is going to hang upside down for the next three days...I thought he was a magician...and speaking of magicians...Criss Angel is really a MINDFREAK.

I'm getting excited about the new season of Greys Anatomy starting this Thursday...I still feel very manly though.

It still amazes me how truly blessed I am...

I'm Greg Arrington and I approve this message.

Car Shopping

As all know, I am starting a new job in a few weeks that will cause me to start driving a little farther than I am used to. Plus, I'll be driving my own vehicle, not a company vehicle. So, I am in the market for a new (used but new to me) vehicle. I can't tell you the last time I went shopping for a vehicle, it has been a day or two. And I just don't feel like driving from car lot to car lot, plus...the horror stories you here about car lots...man...it really is a gamble. So I thought that I would go all high tech and stuff and went to craigslist.com, which is really cool. You can restrict your searches to find about anything you really want, plus...I really want to buy from an individual, not a dealer. The hard part about all of this is what do I want. I know that it has to have 4-wheels (wife said so) and it needs to be good for the environment (fuel efficient) and it needs to look half way decent, oh yea..its got to have AC. I'm about to go to work in a city where the mean household income is $360.000 and the average house front entryway has more square footage than most Wal-Marts....I gots to have me some decent wheels...not to keep up with the Jones but come on... I went and looked at a couple of cars...a Ford Focus and a Mercury Cougar...but I'm just not a car guy...so now I'm looking at "little cute" pickups. Rangers, S-10, Hombreas, Frontiers, etc. A 4-cyl 5 speed on each of those trucks equals about 26-30MPG, which ain't bad. Will let you know how it goes in the next few days...hopefully I'll be getting me a "cute" truck that will get me to and fro.

The Progress of S.W.E.A.T.

Not to complain but, I've got a story I must share with all. As you know, I was taken out of the SWEAT gig by my old boss due due to a "reorganization" of the department. Part of that reorganization was removing me from organizing and supervising the SWEAT program which I have worked for the past 7 years. The rest is history and you each know how all that turned out. This Saturday (yesterday) the SWEAT program assisted with the city clean up (They help people unload their trash from the trailers or pickup beds) as they have on several occasions. This time however, I was not overseeing the project, I was just an observer (I had a load of trash I took to drop off). The mayor of the city just happened to be behind me in line and we both pulled up to the dumpster together. The SWEAT kids came over to start helping us unload and I immediately noticed they did not have their vest on or any gloves on. This is a "big time" safety violation. Before I could find an officer who was supposedly "supervising", the mayor shouted at me to go and get the kids some gloves...they needed gloves on. Without thinking, I started yelling at one of the officers (who was half asleep leaning on "my" old SWEAT truck...drinking coffee) to get these kids some gloves...you know what he said??!!!???!!! He said he could not find any....!?!?!?!?! are you kidding me....?!?!?!?!....I then yelled back and said go to the bus, look in the blue tote in the back on the left side, look on the right side and the gloves are right there.... He walked over to the bus, and brought back the gloves and vest and got the kids all dressed up and safe. The mayor and I talked a little more and he was really upset about the whole situation and was upset at me! I informed him that I was not running the show anymore...it must be a decision made by his wonderful police chief. No gloves, what next the new coordinator won't show???...oh wait....that's right he did not show up...he forgot and called in and ask someone else to cover for him. Not my problem anymore, but it really is sad...really sad.

Playing Catch Up

Man this retirement gig is pretty time consuming. I've got so many things to "blog" about and I've got to take the time to catch up on the Internet. I've got to tell about the retirement party last Saturday. Ike's devastation in North Texas. Car/Truck/Vehicle Hunting Movie Review and a restaurant review, whew...plus I've got some hump day thoughts that I never got around to posting. So be ready...mucho posto ono theo wayo (North Texas Translation --- alot of blog post coming soon)

The Day After Hump Day Thoughts

• I know exactly what I was doing and how I was feeling 7 years ago today.
• Today is a friends birthday, ever since 2001, he doesn't like for anyone to say Happy Birthday to him.
• Hurricane Ike is really fixing to mess up Galveston.
• Today is "last day at Azle eve".
• My friends are taking me out to lunch tomorrow, I'm going to cry, I know I am.
• If you give money to your local public broadcasting station, do the program interruptions where the people ask for you to give money stop? I'm trying to watch a 1971 Billy Joel concert but they keep on breaking in and asking for money and it really upsets me.
• I'm not sure I like ABC News..Charles Gibson gave Sarah Palin hell in an interview today...and she is just way too Hawt to be messed with like that.
• It is going to feel REAL weird to not have a badge for the next few weeks. I've had one in my back pocket for over twenty years.
• I like the TSA new uniforms...they look more professional.
• I like the saying "storm surge" it sounds impressive.
• I know what a Pundit is now thanks to my way too cool sister in law.
• I got 7 out of 10 right on the finalist for America's Got Talent. I'm still pulling for Nuttin but Strings and was a little upset that "Baton Boy" did not make it through...way to go Hoff.
• Every time police arrest a murder suspect, the news stations talk to the suspect's neighbors who always say " he was a nice guy"... that drains me down.
• Christine and I have not been out to eat in awhile, restaurant review are on hold for awhile.
• Finally went and saw Batman Dark Night, best Batman film I've seen.
• Looking forward to the new movie with Pacino and De Niro...
• Due to my wife's coupon task force operation, we now have more water in our house than is in most large lakes in North Texas.
• The new styles of bullet proof vest are a little thicker than sweaters, my first vest was basically two sheets of metal connected by some Velcro straps.
• Tomorrow will be our last day of 90 degree weather, only suppose to be in mid 80's the next several days...fall is a coming...yea
• I am blessed more than I know and much more than I deserve.

"521 - Go Ahead"

Each week the City Manager (I'm sorry, MY city manager) sends out and post a weekly update about the goings on within the City of Highland Village. This infomration was contained for the world to see in the weekly recap of September 5, 2008.

This week, the police department responded to 162 calls for service, made 98 traffic contacts, made 8 arrests, responded to 7 traffic accidents and performed 480 community policing activities. Applicant Greg Arrington has accepted a position as a police officer with our department. He is scheduled to begin on October 6, 2008. Greg has 20 years law enforcement experience, and is retiring from Azle PD. He has previous experience with Crowley PD and Tarrant County Sheriff's Department. He will be assigned Badge #521. We welcome him to our team and look forward to working with him.

So, when you call me or see me you can call me "Greg" but I will only answer you if you call me "#521".

PARTY PLANNED

Come Celebrate a Servant's Heart ______________________________________________ When: Saturday September 13, 2008 Where: Emmanuel Community Building Time: 2:30PM to 5:00PM What: Retirement Party for Rex and Greg Hope to see you there!

Mixed Emotions

It is really hard not to have mixed emotions about leaving Azle. Don't get me wrong, I am so looking forward to my new job and starting a new chapter in my life, but it is really beginning to sink in that I will soon shut my office door for the last time. The fact that I am leaving is out, people in the department know, other city employees know, and now people in the community know because my "retirement" made the front page of the local newspaper. When I step outside the security of my office, I see someone coming to me saying goodbye and good luck. I am fielding phone call after phone call from folks in the community wanting to tell me that I will be missed and other nice things. While all this stuff is great, it is the cause for the realization of it all to come right up from behind and slap me right across the face. Jimmy, Kevin and I took Rex out for lunch yesterday. We have all stuck together through thick and thin and it was very nice for all of us to once again be together for the last time. Rex's last official day was last Tuesday. Man, it really doesn't seem real, but we have all been together for the past 9 years. I have made some great friends that I know I will have for the rest of my life...not work friends, but life friends. My heart is heavy at the thought of not seeing them each day. And as I open and shut that door for the last time, I know I've done my best, I know I've made a difference, I know I've done what I could to serve, protect and keep the peace. And as I drive out of the parking lot for the last time, I'll look in the mirror and see the city behind me that has given me the strength and opportunity to take this next step in my career. I'll remember it fondly and will cherish the friendships made and great memories that will last a lifetime.

Hump Day Thoughts

• Auguste Rodin was the sculptor of the above statue "The Thinker"...think about it.
• I'm pulling for Nutin but Strings for America's Got Talent.
• I made sloppy joes the other night...Donnie, eat your heart out.
• Since I'm starting a new job in a few weeks, I went shopping the other day..I feel like I'm going to be like a kindergartner on his first day of school with all my new stuff. Yes..I bought the "fat" crayons.
• Sarah Palin is going to be a grandmother...so what?????
• I got my tractor fixed (well at least the cylinders are back on) but know I think the power steering pump is gone bad...maybe it is on upside down...I'll check.
• I really enjoyed my vacation last week. If I can make it 7 more days, I think I will survive.
• Due to Gustav..it is now really nice in North Texas right now, it is only in the mid-80s all week and from the days we've had this summer...I almost feel like putting on a sweater.
• My wife just got back from Chicago...verdict...it was really nasty but she, Heather and Maggie had a great time.
• As a retirement present, my wife is letting buy a new flat screen TV...my wife is cool.
• My female cat has a crooked tail and she looks really goofy, but we don't talk about it in front of her because we really don't want to add to her "complex" and lower her self-esteem.
• Sarah Palin is Hawt...
• Christine got some new glasses this week (thanks Donnie for the hookup) now she looks a little like Sarah Palin...Hawt...Hawt..Hawt.
• Since I'm leaving the Azle Police Department in a few days, I went ahead and turned in my Bushmaster 223 Assault Patrol Rifle / Machine Gun...now I'm not as tuff / tough as the other guys.
• I really don't know what a "Pundit" is but they must be real important cause they sure do get talked about alot.
• I wonder if Sarah Palin ever participated in the "Best Wife" contest in Talkeetna, that would be cool to watch her carry a sack of corn on her back while climbing a rope bridge over a river while fighting off some bears...she is Hawt.
• I need to retire to get ready to retire.
• And as always...I am blessed and that is so cool.

Retired at 43

It is now official...my letter is in the big guy's mailbox, my last date of employment is September 12, 2008. I will be "officially" retired for a 3-week period as I do not start my new job until October 6, 2008. Man..I'm gonna live it up and do it right. I'm going to get as much practice in as I can so when the next retirement comes, I'll know exactly what to do. Here are a few things I've got planned for the 3-week period.

• Go to local dinner each morning and hang out with the other retired guys
• Get me a pair of black socks...wear them with shorts and sandals and go out in public.
• Go to the mall and "power walk".
• Go to the park and sit on a park bench and feed birds.
• Call all ladies "sunshine".
• Bitch about taxes
• Say "I'm on a fixed salary" at the pharmacy.
• Take lunch to my wife while she is at work.
• Hang out at the hardware store.
• Play a few rounds of golf, or at least drink some beer and drive the golf carts fast.
• Reply and send some money to some junk mail ads that come in the mail.
• Learn how to play domino's.
• Volunteer at a food bank.
• Hook up with some old friends.
• Spend some "Daddy" time with each one of my wonderful daughters.
• Pat my wife on the butt more often and say..."looking good there sunshine".

Man, I'm going to be busy, but, I'm up to the challenge. I might take a short "Gregory" vacation...not completely sure...but its looking pretty good right now.

No matter what I decide to do, I know one thing for sure...I'm going to let God know how thankful I am for my life, my family and the blessings he gives to me each and everyday of my absolutely fantastic life.

Later all you working dudes....