rain in San Diego?????

Yes, it is raining here in San Diego. Has been since about 2am. Might come to about an inch in our area when all is said and done, but you would think we were having hurricane type rains. There have been accidents all over the major roads, and the local roads have some "fender benders" scattered about. At least the rain will clean things up around here. You don't realize how much dust buildup there is with it so dry out here. The dirt and soot coming off is amazing. Hopefully it will stop soon, because one thing that you need to worry about here in Southern California is mud slides. We are no where near any of those problems, but much of the area where the wildfires occurred, are in potential problem areas.

Of course one of the side effects of the rain is that every crawling creature wants to get dry. The front door and our outside decorations were covered in ants. I started brooming them off, and sprayed a full can of Raid around the door and front of the house. When I returned about an hour later, the area was covered in dead ants. I had never seen so many at one time.

Second gross out of the day was finding a rat floating in the pool (sorry, no picture). In October I found one at the bottom of the pool. This is supposed to be a common occurrence, as our landlord, and the guy who takes care of the pool, made it seem like no big deal. Um, well, it is to me!

We have a Christmas party to attend, but we will only be saying a quick "hello", as our church is putting on its Christmas activities today. Pastor Ray will be away for the next couple of weeks, so they are doing it early so he could be here. The children of the school associated with the church (where Cassie will hopefully attend soon), are putting on a "play" about the candy cane and how it related to the birth of Jesus. Also (weather permitting), there is supposed to be a "Live Nativity", with people and animals. Hopefully the rain will stop, so we can enjoy the presentation.

Until the next time.....

some decorations.....

Quiet day today. Had a dental appointment that went well, except I need to go back because some old fillings are cracked. I knew about them, but was in no pain or discomfort, so I waited. When they mentioned it, I figured, might as well get them done. Not my favorite activity (really?), but at least it will be taken care of before the holidays.

Well here are some of our decorations. Besides the 31 (last count) nutcrackers, we keep things quite simple, which I like. Morgan and Cassie do all the decorating, and I do all the "lugging" in and out of the closet with the storage containers.

The three of us are supposed to go up to Julian (mountain area) on Saturday. Morgan and Cassie by car, and I was going to ride the bike. Would be one of my farthest rides, but with great scenary. Now, it looks likes rain for the day. It is not supposed to rain in San Diego. Hope the weather geeks are wrong. :-)

Until the next time.....

not sure I could handle.....

Received an e-mail from a client today. The client is a very nice guy, and I have prepared his joint return (have never met his wife) for the past few years. This year we did a great amount of planning because they were expect twins, and we were going through all the tax/cash flow scenarios concerning his wife working or staying at home. Today he sent an e-mail informing me that his wife delivered twins in early August at 24 weeks, but that one of the boys had passed away the next day. I was in shock. Never in my 22 years did I have to deal with a child's death, but I had to now, as he asked some questions concerning what would happen this year, and next year concerning his taxes.

After some hesitation, and the thought of just using an e-mail response, I decided I must call, give my condolences, tell him we would pray for his family, and answer his questions. We I called and he picked up and we started talking, he was surprisingly more upbeat than I would have thought, and after offering my prayers, we spoke about taxes. I had to ask about getting a SS# for the twins (got for both), but mainly we "talked tax".

After I said goodbye, and hung up, I just sat in my chair. Could I be as calm 3 1/2 months later after such a tragedy? Could I have answered so easily "yes" to the question about getting a SS# for my deceased child? Could I have then discussed other tax matters?

These are also the times when I ask, "Why Lord?" I know there is a plan, but must these steps be taken? Maybe part of the plan is for the strength being shown by the father. I know he "showed" me something during our conversation.

Now for some better news. Their other son is still under 4lbs, but is doing well. I will think about them and pray for them for quite a while.

Also, we have learned that Morgan's friend does not have any cancer. They did find a tumor, but it is benign. This is more of the news I like to hear.

My mom had another treatment yesterday. This one was 5 hours long. She say she is feeling OK, although one of the "side effect" drugs kept her awake all night, so she did not sleep until 8:30am this morning

On the sports, lighter side, my Hurricanes lost again tonight, 3-1 to the Flyers. That is two losses to them, at home, in one week. They really need to do something to get a fire going. If it was not for that 3 goal third period against Tampa, they would be on a long losing streak.

I promise. Christmas decoration pictures soon.

Until the next time.....

that time already.....

Today I received an e-mail notice that I could download the software for next tax season. This is just a first run of the program, but it let's me set things up like cover letters, instructions sheets, etc., so I don't have to worry about those little things come January. I can not believe that it is that time already. This will be my 22nd year preparing tax returns.

I have seen it all, but I never had to do a "pencil and paper" full tax return. I started out filling in worksheets, that were sent off to be processed, and the next day, a tax return was in your hands. Find an error, and you had to process the whole thing all over again.

Next it was a program that came on the large 5 1/4" disks (about 30 of them), so we could put in on our portable computers. Portable meant the size of a suitcase. Also, the returns did not print out. You got numbers on blank paper. Then you took the paper and placed an "overlay" sheet on it tat looked like a tax return page. Then you made a copy, and you had 1 page of the return. In that time, because the firm I worked for was located in New York, we were only able to do NY returns on the computer. I, as low man on the totem pole, did most of the out of state returns, by hand. That actually worked out nicely, as those clients got to know me, and some left that firm, and had me do their returns, when I came to NC and worked on my own. By the end of my time in NY, we had the capability to print the whole return, so no more overlays and copying.

When Morgan & I moved to NC, and I was on my own, I switched software companies, and never looked back. Their program used those smaller 3 1/2" disks, and if I needed, I could get the software for multiple states. Then the next big shift was the software coming on CDs. Now I had all individual and business returns for all states available to me. Updated disks would be mailed to you. Then no more mail updates, as you could download them (sloooow, back in the 90's with dial up). Dial up turned to broadband (cable modems), and with that came the ability to download the whole program. No more disk or CDs. Now, I have at my fingertips, the ability to do any kind of tax return for the Federal or any state government. Tax preparing has come a long way in my time, and I did not even mention the ability to research anything with a few mouse clicks. Add in the fact that I am now pretty much paperless, and all client documents are in a virtual file cabinet (nothing physically saved by me), it is amazing how far it has come.

All of that makes my life a lot easier. I enjoy preparing taxes and helping people throughout the year plan for their taxes. It is a "hard" 3 1/2 months until April 15th, but my working life is pretty easy the remaining time of the year.

So there is the last 22 years in tax preparation. Fascinating, wasn't it? If you have not fallen asleep, and knocked your head on the keyboard, God Bless You!

So now, I will spend some time getting final preparations ready for tax season. Some year-end clients notes, a run to Staples for tax return folders and other supplies, and a little bit of organizing the office should get me ready.

The other event from today was that my friend Kellie brought tears to my eyes because of a very nice note she sent to me. Love you, Kellie. You are also special to me and my family. We will talk soon.

With that, I will need to do something "manly" to negate the tears. I do not have any tools, nor do I know how to work on a car, so my options are limited. Guess it will have to be watching some sports and a gladiator movie. ;-)

Until the next time.....

peace.....

Pastor Ray has been putting his teachings / Bible study portion of the scripture readings into having enough faith in God, that you allow him truly into your heart and allow yourself peace.

After Saturday night's service, Morgan said that he was speaking to me, that I need to let go, allow whatever is going to happen in our lives these next few years, to happen, and enjoy my time. She is right, Pastor Ray is right, but I still can't...

I have tried, but this has more to do with upbringing, then not believing. On the spiritual path, I am way behind most people. I grew up in Catholic, and went to church most Saturday nights, or Sunday mornings, but alone, or with my younger brother. We did not go as a family, and in general, we were not a religious family. I do not blame my parents for that, nor do I say it was a bad thing. It was just the way it was. I went to St. John's University, and tried to get religion and faith to "stick", but it did not. I drifted away, kept my Catholic ways (an occasional confession and church service before or at the holidays, but that was it). I drifted away, and did not look back.

Fast forward to 2001. We were looking to take Cassie to a preschool near our home, and there was one with openings at Macedonia Baptist Church in Raleigh. I was suspicious of using a school in a church, but Morgan said the people were great, and we should give it a try. We did, and it was good for Cassie, good for Morgan, but more good for me. At first, I was distant from them, but they were so nice, and so welcoming that I decided to go to some services. I enjoyed them, but was not fully drawn in. Then in early 2003, we applied for Cassie to go to Wake Christian Academy. Everyone there was so nice, and so willing to discuss faith, that it helped me with mine even more.

Then everything crashed around me in 2004. When I returned to Raleigh, and got Cassie back into WCA, the next place I went was back to Macedonia Baptist to see when Sunday services would be. Cassie and I were there every Sunday morning. I slowly began to build myself back, and build up my faith. It was during that time, in September 2004, that I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior.

Now comes the peace. After accepting Jesus into your heart, the next step is to allow your faith to get so deep, that you will just let go and allow Jesus to lead. This will help bring the peace. I am not there yet. I know of many others who have found it, and allow Jesus to lead and guide them. They truly seem at ease, "at peace", and I wish I was there. I want to get to this peace, and I am praying that I will find it.

Until the next time.....

that was quick.....

Well, Morgan took the initiative yesterday afternoon, and called to confront her mother. I think how Morgan responded Thursday, and then her calling surprised her mother, and she backtracked from her statements. She claims they (along with Morgan's brother) were concerned that she had had surgery without telling anyone, and wanted to make sure she was being checked by a doctor. All well and good, but still does not explain the nasty way things were said on Thursday. This was enough to ease Morgan's mind, so for now things are settled. I'm glad she feels a little better about the situation.

Was lazy on Friday, but made up for it today. After dropping Cassie at swim practice, I hit Home Depot (regular stuff), and then Target and Circuit City to finish the Sal/Morgan/Cassie shopping. Now we just need to get a few things for extended family, and we'll probably do most of that online. Found the game Cassie wanted (Game of Life: Twist n Shout edition), and a couple of High School Musical CDs at Target, and got a High Def DVD player for our bedroom at Circuit City (was $100 off). Ordered Planet Earth from Amazon, and we are done for each other. Should be finished by December 1st, woo hoo!

Morgan and Cassie started decorating. Tomorrow they will tackle the tree. It is just not the same without the "chill" in the air. Windows open in November is my kind of weather, but it is funny after 41 years on the east coast to see lights on Palm trees.

I did save the world the other night, and completed the solo missions of Halo 3. Was not as spectacular of an ending as I would have liked, but it was good. I really should read all the Halo novels to piece things together.

Played Rock Band with our friend Kim and her son on Thursday night. We had a blast. Cassie played vocals, while I was on guitar, and Kim and her son switched between drums and bass guitar. Next thing we knew it was 10:30 and we had been at it for 2 hours.

The Hurricanes had been giving me fits lately, and I thought last night was going to be another one. Came downstairs to eat with them down 3-1 after 2 periods. They did not looks good. Well something (or someone, Coach Pete) lit a fire under them and they scored 3 in the 3rd period to win 4-3. The old man, Glen Wesley scored the game winner. They are in Washington tonight, and I hope that fire is still lit.

My friend, Kellie, made her "thankful" list, and with the Morgan/mom time, I did not mention mine yesterday. After thinking about it, I should have and not let the negative take over, but hey, it's my space. So...

- Morgan & Cassie: They mean everything to me, and my love for them grows each and every day.
- My mental health: Now that I am happy with myself, and "see" things better, I am better.
- Morgan's happiness: Her being happy with herself (job & personal) is a great thing to see and be a part of.
- My relationship with God: It is not as strong and close as others, but it is getting there slowly, but surely. This has taken a long time, and even though it is slow, I like how things are going.
- My friends: I only have a couple of real close one, and then just a few like I like being with (that sounds terrible), but those that I have really mean a lot to me.
- Extended family: I may not want to spend all times with them, but it does not mean I don't love and think about them. Some have large, some have none, but I feel what I have is "just right".
- Being able to ride my motorcycle: It may get some "eyes rolling", but the feeling I get when on the bike is something I wish I had felt 20 years ago.
- Working: I enjoy my work and my career. Taxes are not glamorous, but I know that I am helping people is a small way, and they appreciate it.
- My life: It is not always perfect, and I may not be exactly where I want to be right now, but I am blessed to be here with the 2 most important people in my life, and blessed to have friends I stay in contact with, so life is good. Not much more you can ask or be thankful for.

Until the next time.....

the day after the holiday.....

Hope you had a nice Thanksgiving. Ours went very well. Morgan had pretty much finished all the prepping on Wednesday evening, so it was really just a matter of putting things in the oven, and making the vegetables. We brined our turkey this year, and it was great. The last two years we placed in on the grill for some smoking/cooking, but this year it stayed in the oven the whole time. Everything else was great as usual, because I have a wife who is a wonderful cook. The stuffing, sweet potatos, beans, and mashed cauliflower were all wonderful.

Morgan ate some more turkey than she would have normally, but did not go overboard with anything else. She was not sure how she wanted to handle her first holiday meal since she lost, and is still losing weight. She said she was going to try a few more items, but she stayed a little cautious, and on track.

So far she is over 100 pounds lost. She looks great and feels great. Her weight has never been an issue with me, as long as she was healthy (and she was), but I love that she has found a system she likes, is seeing results, and is extremely happy with how she looks. I am very proud of her. Also from the "man" side, I have always found her beautiful and sexy, but now she says, and I agree, she looks "hot". :-)

On the flip side of all this, is her mother. Morgan never had a good relationship with her parents growing up (for another post), and as an adult it has not gotten any better (especially when you add in the fact that she married me, but that is for another "long" post). Even when her dad died a few years ago, she thought maybe she might get closer with her mom, but that has not happened, and after yesterday, she might be done with any relationship with her mother.

A little backstory here is that Morgan was the "baby" of the family and 5 years younger than the youngest sibling. She did things a little "out of the box", like wanting to be a DJ, and was discouraged from it, and belittled by them and every shot. She was told marrying me was a huge mistake. That her job, career path was a huge mistake. That California was a huge mistake, and why would she leave the local radio station for another job. All things that have worked out, but she has never heard a positive word about any of them. The funny (not really) is that the jabs, complaints and insults usually seem to come most during the holidays. I don't know why. I give her a ton of credit for staying in a relationship with them for as long as she did, but she always felt as the youngest, and the only daughter, it was her duty to keep trying.

I think that trying ended yesterday.

While on the phone with her mother, the obligatory, "what are you making for dinner?" came up. When Morgan mentioned all that she was making, but said she would be watching what she ate, her mother questioned why. When she said she was trying to lose weight, more questions, "why?". (Now, Morgan has been seen by her mom since she started losing weight, and has not received one, "You look good, you have lost weight" in the year since she started) Then her mother accused her of hiding something with the weight loss. When Morgan said she has lost 100+ pounds, and was planning on losing more because it was the right thing to do, her mother turned around and told her "Why now, you needed to do that since you were a kid, and you never did anything about it?"

With that my wife was done. She hung up the phone, got upset and cried. Another holiday where I get to comfort my crying wife because of her parents (has happended on holidays before). She says she won't do it anymore. No more calls, no more checking up on her. No nothing.

I don't know where to go with this. I am tired of Morgan getting this upset because of her parents, and don't want to see her this way, and have another holiday dampened (Not ruined. We will not let her defeat us.). Another part of me says that Morgan can't just cut ties with her 80+ year old mother. I'm thinking I'll just stay away (hard as her husband), and let the Lord take Morgan in the direction she needs to follow.

Until the next time.....

the day before the holiday.....

The Wednesday before Thanksgiving always has a different feel to it. The same as the day before Christmas Eve and the day prior to New Year's Eve. It is that "pre-holiday holiday time". People leave work early and there is a buzz in the air. Although it is crazy on days like this, I actually enjoy the time, and watching the "buzz".

My friend Kellie mentioned that her family has been getting great use out of the basketball net we left behind in NC. I am glad they are enjoying and using it so much. Of course what I would have enjoyed more was seeing Kellie shoot some baskets. That must have been a sight. :-) Love ya, Kellie!

Morgan's friend and her son are joining us for Thanksgiving dinner. As I mentioned, she is going through some trying times, and we had this planned prior to knowing anything, so again, the Lord worked the plans so she would have comfort with Morgan on the holiday.

For us, some years we are with family, others with friends. I don't always have to be with my family (and that does not go over well with them). As long as I have my wife and daughter, if it is family or friends, it does not matter, as long as people have a place to be with others.

Off to save the world in Halo 3, as I have only one more chapter to go.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving.

Until the next time.....

ok today.....

Well, I feel a lot better than today then I did 24 hours ago. That "homesick" feeling is not bringing me down today. I am sure that besides my own, there were prayers from Kellie to help me out of my "blues".

I see from her posting that Kellie needs some extra prayers concerning a family matter. She and her family will have them from us, no questions asked". I know this will turn out fine.

Morgan's best friend here in San Diego underwent biopsies today to test for breast cancer. An extra prayer for her would be appreciated.

I am hearing this way too much this year as I have had my mother undergoing treatment since late June. She has been getting through it fine, but after all she went through the past few years with her mom, then her brother, then her own other health problems, it just makes me shake my head.

My friends, Casey and his wife have traveled to upstate NY for the Thanksgiving holiday. He sent a text message that they got there. Have a nice holiday and a safe trip back home.

Picked up a game called Rock Band today. You actually play as a band with a singer, guitar, bass and drummer. Cassie has been playing with me all day, and we have had a blast. We are not good, but it is some good family fun. The game also let's me see that my daughter has gotten her daddy's "no rhythm gene".

Until the next time.....

leafs changing.....

I know the title is not spelled correctly. It's a hockey thing. :-)

Well my friend Kellie posted some pictures on her page of the leaves turning color at her home in NC. They were great pictures as always (Kellie & Casey, both got me interested in photography), with the vibrant fall colors and the sense of cool air in their look, and with all that they made me homesick. I have been feeling that way quite a bit today. I am sure it has to do with it being Thanksgiving week.

For a little back story, this is not my first time out in San Diego. Morgan accepted this job back in 2004, and we packed up and came out here. Her in March, while Cassie & I at the end of May. Cassie and I were gone by mid August. It was a combination of homesickness, being scared, and the fact that I had worked myself into such a frenzy over the prior 10 years, that I was on the verge of a mental collapse sometime in the near future. Just happened that it all came to a breaking point after arriving here in San Diego.

The time of leaving my wife behind until she returned home (to the same house we never sold) in July 2005 was the toughest I have faced, but also the best. I had many nights where I thought Morgan would call and tell me she was not returning because of what I had done. I cried many times. But with that, the time brought me back to church, and to Jesus. That in turn helped me to be a better person than I was prior to the collapse. And that helped me become a better husband, father, friend, and person.

Back to present day - I am having none of those "get me the heck out of here!" feelings. I am enjoying it out here, as I type part of this by an outdoor swimming pool in mid November. Just miss my friends. There was a comfort level that I had reached with the area and the people in my life. I get along with many people, but only a few I call "friends", and even fewer I enjoy spending time with. I used to not need those "close" people, but as I have gotten older, and after my problems, I really have come to appreciate a good friendship and the mutual support that comes with it. I exclude my wife from this, as I have always considered her my best friend since the day we met 17+ years ago, and she is always there if I need her.

I have met a good amount of nice people here through school, swim team, and Harley group, but none that I have said I would like to get together with for dinner. It has only been two months, so I need to relax, and not force it.

It's funny, because this is the opposite of what I am telling Cassie. I am trying everything to have her make a friend out here, and she's just not hitting it off with anyone. Friendly and talkative with many girls, but no friends yet. I know she is enjoying being out here and getting to do many different things (more on that tomorrow), but she also misses the people, and the few close friends she had back in NC. If I look close enough, I guess that is another area where my daughter is just like her father.

Until the next time.....

time difference.....

If there is one thing that I have not adjusted to, and I'm not sure I will ever adjust to, is the 3 hour time difference between the east and west coast. Especially if you are a sports fan. That might sound trivial, but trying to get things done to watch a NFL game at 10am on Sunday morning, college football at 9am on Saturdays, or trying to not see a Hurricanes score because the game starts at 4pm is getting frustrating. Again, I know it sounds silly, but when you add trying to stay in contact with friends (no texting Casey at 9pm, because he is long asleep, and Cassie must remember to call her NC friends by 5pm our time), then add that 95% of my business is on the east coast, it can be a bit of a pain.

I have already decided to time shift my day come January for tax season, so I will be getting up at 4am to try and be in the office by 5:30 or 6am to stay in sync with a majority of clients. It is only 3 months, so I should be OK with it as long as I stay disciplined in going to sleep early.

OK, enough kvetching. Went to a Saturday evening service at our church. There was a nice, small crowd, and the service and Bible study portions were the same as a Sunday. The biggest difference was Pastor Ray being dressed in blue jeans with an untucked button down dress shirt. Some might have been bothered, but to me, as long as your clothes are clean, tasteful and fits you well, then that is more important than what is worn. The service and his study had no less meaning to me then on Sunday when he wears a tie.

For full disclosure, I have not tucked in a dress shirt or worn a tie more than a dozen times in the past 15 years, so Pastor Ray's dress actually made me feel a little more comfortable with him.

No school this whole week. Must be a California thing. They start school the before Labor Day, and don't get out until the 3rd week of June. They have weeks off all over the calender, and the private school we are looking at follows the public school calender, so it will be the same no matter which school Cassie attends. Back in my day..... :-)

The Hurricanes won 2-1 last night. They had to kill almost 2 1/2 minutes of being 2 men down in the 3rd period (with 2 of our best PKer's, Rod Brind'Amour & Glen Wesley in the box), and were able to do it and win the game. Like to see some more offense from them, but I'll take the win after the prior game.

Until the next time.....

swim meet........

Cassie had her first swim meet today. Having to be there at 7am for a 9am start time was a bit of a shock, but the kids need time to warm up, etc. Cassie was nervous but did great. She took part in three events (backstroke, butterfly and freestyle), all at 50 meters (2 lengths of this pool). She needs to learn to dive into the pool with her hands and not her belly (ouch!), but she will be fine with more practice. The event was pretty organized, and it was a good day for all of us. Just need to get used to the schedule. The kids might be in the pool for 5 minutes, yet be at the event for 5 hours. I learned that I need more books.

Heading over to the 6pm church service tonight. We figured it might be a little more intimate than the large amount of people on Sunday morning (yes, even at 8:30am there has been a crowd). Have not been to a Saturday evening service since I was 18 and still a Catholic at St. Anthony's Church in Oceanside, New York.

I noticed that gas prices were quick to rise almost 20 cents or more ($3.40 for regular here in San Diego) when the price per barrel shot up to $98. I have not seen it come back down since it leveled back at $91 a barrel. Why is that?

The Hurricanes try to right the ship tonight against the Florida Panthers at the RBC Center. A scheduling quirk has them playing back to back nights at home. Sure hope they have some life in them tonight. Back to back home losses would not be a good thing.

About half way through my Halo 3 solo campaign. I may yet save the world. :-)

Until the next time.....

baby school.....

My friend Casey and his wife are expectant parents. Their baby is due at the end of February. He told me that they will be spending Saturday in a "Baby Class". It made me laugh as we were texting back and forth. I told him the best advice I could give. When you have a question (not medical, but "how do I?"), speak with other parents, because they will want to give you their two cents anyway, then ignore what they said and go with your "gut". Works most times.

I completed all my business clients scanning. That is a relief, and a load of paper to be shredded and recycled. Amazing how much paper were in their files. Next are the personal income tax clients. Not sure if I will tackle it now, or take a week off.

Watched my Hurricanes get beat by the Thrashers, and at home in the RBC Center. Come on boys, pick it up.

Tried grilling chicken tonight, but did not have enough charcoal to get a hot fire. Normally, I have extra, but I am trying not to be as obsessive as my "prior life", so I don't run to the store and load up on items "just to be sure". Well that will teach me.

I am enjoying writing these postings, and see my friend Kellie is a daily reader, and commenter. With everything on her plate, I appreciate her taking the time to read it each day.

Until the next time.....

one wrong turn.....

Went on my bike to the printer to get some new business cards with the San Diego office number on them. From there I wanted to get to Best Buy, but made a wrong turn and ended up going towards the mountains. I wasn't too far out of my way, and the ride was beautiful (sorry no camera), so it was a "good lost". I am really enjoying the San Diego weather, and being able to ride almost everyday has been quite enjoyable and therapeutic for me. I can't wait to take some nice long rides with the HOG chapter, or just with Morgan, up to mountains or out to the coast, while she drives the Viper.

The Canes got beat up in Tampa last night 5-1. It was just ugly. Enough said.

Cassie has her first swim meet on Saturday. They have asked us to arrive at 7am to get parked, and signed in. The meet starts at 9am and could last until 3 or 4pm! Oy, I'm in for a long "parent's day". Cassie is only in 3 events, so I hope she does not get bored and disinterested with all that "down time".

Have not been gaming much. Hope to change that in this upcoming week. Would really like to finish up the Halo 3 campaign and see if I save the world. :-)


Until the next time........

my HOGette.....

The local Harley Owners Group (HOG) meeting was last night. This was my first one in San Diego, and I only got to three while in Raleigh. They are a very nice group. As with all HOG chapters, there are many fund raising efforts during the year. One such event was on Saturday (11/10) to celebrate Veterans' Day. Along with the weekly BBQ at the SDHD dealership, the chapter held a bake sale to raise money so we can buy gifts for a children's' hospital this Christmas. Morgan made a load of items, and we went to help out. Little did we know that our daughter would be such a good salesperson. We made over $430 from the event, and Cassie must have sold almost $300 of it. The other members were so impressed they gave her a HOG shirt, and last night at the meeting surprised her with a "Volunteer Pin", that is given for volunteering above and beyond. I am very proud of her.

This motorcycle and the HOG chapter has now become a "family thing". Morgan likes the people in the group, and the ladies that are associated with it and is going to join HOG as an associate member under my membership. So, even though she does not ride, she will be able to attend all of our functions. Now as for my daughter, she claims she wants to learn to ride, then she can be her own HOG member. Check back when she is 18, and we'll see.

Not much work this time of year, so I started a new project. I am almost done converting all of my clients files from paper to scanned items. No need to keep paper around anymore, and it is so easy to back up the computer and these files, I wish I started this years ago. I need to complete one more business client, and then I am only left with personal income tax files. It has been tedious, but it will be well worth it when I am finished. I ahve added this to my business and personal life as well by changing all my "paper bills" over to "e-bills". The exciting life of a tax accountant.

Until the next time........

little more info please...

OK, two days in a row. This is a good start. Yesterday's post gave an idea what the blog is about, so today I figured a little more background on me might help in understanding what the heck I will be writing about.

In September 2007, my family relocated to San Diego, CA. This is related to my wife's primary job (morning show host on a SD radio station). She has had the job since March 2004, and had been "commuting" between SD and Raleigh, NC (where she is from, and we have lived since 1993) for a week each month since July 2005. What happened between March 2004 & July 2005? Well, that is for another posting (probably a real long one :-) ).

I like it here in San Diego, but it is a slow process for me. Friends, family, church, school, and clients are mostly on the east coast. It has taken an adjustment by me to get used to that, but also not let those far away to slip away. That would not be good for me.

I got to Raleigh in 1993 after living in New York (specifically Long Island) for pretty much my entire life. Born in Brooklyn, and moved to West Babylon when I was three. Then to Oceanside when I was ten, then the Port Jefferson area when I was twenty. Met my wife in 1990, and after a couple of NY winters, she asked if we could move "home". We did, and looking back, I can't believe how easy of a move it was for me. Raleigh in 1993 was a lot more "southern" then it is now with the influx of people, and even though it was a little "bumpy" at first for this "New Yawker" (have not lost a drop of my NY accent), I really enjoy it there.

So this is where I am, and a that is how I got here (short version). A hockey loving New Yorker, from North Carolina in San Diego.

More about me in the coming days. First, congrats to my boys, the Carolina Hurricanes, for a 4-3 win over the Florida Panthers last night. Erik Cole was taken off on a stretcher, but wasreleased from the hospital and able to fly with the team, so it might not be as bad as it looked.

Today it is an easy day, so a ride will probably be worked into the day. Only other event is the local Harley Owners Group (HOG) meeting is tonight.

Until the next time........

my first time.....

Well, here we are. Now that I have started this, I will need to be "bright and witty" to keep you interested. I hope that happens. I also hope I keep this up, as I like to think many thoughts, and now I have a place to express them.

I am not a complicated guy. I love my wife (been together since June 1990), my daughter, and the rest on my small family. I consider my wife my best friend that I have ever had, and I love her more everyday. My daughter is a wonderful girl, who I love to no end. I can't imagine my life without either of them.

Besides my wife and daughter, my interests include hockey (could watch 24/7), video games, and my motorcycle. I own a small tax accounting practice, and I enjoy working, and the clients that are part of my business.

I have a very good male friend (hello, Casey), and a very good female friend (hello, Kellie). They help me in typical male/female ways. Casey is my hockey / video game "brother" (who is married with child on way) who I get to be a guy with, but also get to talk to things about. While Kellie (a teacher, married with twins) helps keep me straight with her spiritual guidance as we talk about the path the Lord has in front of us. I am lucky to know them and their families, and to be able to call them friends.

If the love for my wife & daughter, family happenings, hockey, friends, video games, motorcycles, political thoughts, religious thoughts and current events from me interest you, then you are at the right place. Please enjoy.

Until the next time........