The Rift

Such an unusual race! You have a beautiful, green planet that is covered more than 70% by water. You have oxygen and a cycle that replenishes both. There is game to hunt and soil that will bear crops. You have the intelligence to better yourselves and yet you seek out other planets and the mysteries of the galaxy!

You call my home planet "Mars - The Red Planet." It wasn't always red. It was once just like your own planet! My people became "advanced." We eliminated the usefullness of our own world for a higher purpose. We had to leave.

We did find another planet not far away. Its surface is covered by more than 70% water. It is a green planet in which the cycles replenish themselves. History repeats itself and ... it will close the rift.

Gone Fishin'

Can anything compare to the simple joy of fishing on a cool evening? Big surprises may be nice on a big events like anniversaries, but nothing tops a great day in a fishing boat or a nice catch from the bank!

I'll admit a good movie, a hot bowl of popcorn, a recliner and a cold drink come pretty close, but you just can't fillet a d.v.d.!

When that bobber drifts for a while toping the crest of the occasional tiny wave it calls for the anticipation as only the fisherman can give. It beckons to both the game and the fisherman as a beacon calls to the watchman and the ship at sea. Its sudden plunge into the depths signals the fisherman's reflex and tells the fish that the two have been paired, at last, for adventure! And it's the joy of the return that brings satisfaction.

Pure Delight!

I'd like to know how many people really enjoy the cyber world as much as I do, but find computer jargon confusing?
How many people find a pop up or some irritating information that tells you that you can't log on or do a task because some function is all messed up?

Computer jargon is simple to a lot of people that I know...and thank God for them, but you just can't pester them every time your pop up says that you can't log on when your Java Script don't jive with your cookies! I'd sure like to know who came up with the term "user friendly." Must be another oxy moron!

As long as I can stay plugged in I'm a "happy camper" and delight in my e-mail, IM, web searches, writing and photo editing.

I wonder what new inventions might come up in the future that we will feel the same about? Will they surpass computers all together or will computers just continue to "rule the roost?" What do you think?

Slang?

When I was young we called words or phrases that painted a word picture in the mind ... slang. For a while c.b. radio users called it "slanguage." Church seminars called them "word pictures." Once it was hillbilly talk then it was redneck talk. Which one is politically correct? Call it what you may. I just say that them words is more fit to speak than the Queen's English or the crown she wears!

Why them words outta' fit just a swingin' loose like a possum in a tree and a hangin' like a jaw on a u.f.o. abduction! They outta' just come out natural like and make the speaker and the hearer more comfortable than grandpa's easy chair. If'n ya' hafta' think 'bout it .. jus' ain't no fun t'all.

Them words ya' use when ol' shakey tale git a bit o' yer hiney while pickin' blackberries don't count none. They's jus' words to exclam yer joy at the fact he didn't get ya' on the other side!

Sum words is like a ritty-ule. Like when yer go fishin' and yer say sumpin' like, "Fishy, fishy in a brook. It's a time you bite a hook!" 'fore yer drop the bayt in the water. Jes don't let yer buddies heer thet or they be laughin' till ya plumb jus' wanna' hide.

Broke my reeclyner the other day. Hafta' bring in a lawn cheer from the porch there or maybee that there wire spool and use it as a coghee tayble too! Cain't throw the cheer owt as it got da' butt creese jus' rite to fit my butt.

Reemenber ... fergit that there ee-nun-see-a-shun crap an' jus' speek it like yer knowed it!

Clem

Days of Summer

Think back to the days of your youth ... those hot days of summer. Did you go to the Y.M.C.A. to cool off and enjoy the pool? What is your story about summer?

The Y.M.C.A. was the place to go when I was young. Most every town in the mid-west that I knew had one or a state park that had a community pool. It almost always drew a crowd. You could often hear a group of kids playing Marco Polo at one end of the pool or another.

There was always a life guard that sat high upon his tower and seemed impervious to outside contact. His or her face always seemed to be smudged with some sort of brightly colored sun screen. A low brimmed hat and sun glasses completed their facial attire.

Swimming classes seemed to be regularly scheduled. And parents were always relaxing in lounge chairs nearby enjoying the opportunity to relax and visit amongst themselves.

The water fountains and outdoor showers were always busy with children darting in and out between that and the pool. And it was likely that there was a concession stand not far that would send kids begging to their parents for soda money. Most parents insisted that the kids wait untill after they were done swimming to eat any candy. Smart move in many ways!

I didn't learn to swim at the community pools. Generally I preferred to be self taught. In this case my sister, Nancy, taught me how to swim by encouraging me to jump from the dock at the lake and dog paddle. I have to thank Nancy for helping me get through math in school too! Thanks, Sis!

Summer days ended. The leaves began to change color and we started wearing long slacks again. It was time to start getting our school supplies together. Too look into the faces of the kids at that time and season you'd think that life had just ended! And those few who loved school ... well, they were always in a totally different school catagory in our books!

Thus ended the days of summer. A time of self discovery and understanding of the world around us.

The photo at the top is the community pool called Firth Park in Safford, Arizona.

The Dream

I do, so very much, dream of travel! I suppose the trips of my youth begat that dream in early years.

The taste of other lands, their cultures and mysteries run through my wandering mind like a small boy lost in a store. Fantasizing the teacher used to call it. I prefer to say that it the first step to reality!

I have seen the Eiffel Tower, seen the great collesium of Rome and the great catherdrals. I've been so blessed to have seen the magic in an African sunset and touched the end of a day with the hope of tomorrow.

I have looked into the eyes of the hungry child, heard the shots fired across the river and smelled death one on one. I have cried for joy and cried for pain.

I have seen the oceans from either coast and sampled the salty sea. I swam in the Mediteranean and the ponds of the Veld and I have swam in the eyes of passion.

Yet, now in the dark I sit ... dreaming of the future to be. Shall it be the adventure of the Outback or the wilds of the Kilihari? The plans I make now are the substances of the dreams the my rocker built in the wake of my imagination.

I have lived the past and survived it well. My joints now creak with the added year, but I don't relent. Each step leads to a new day ... a new future!

Good Friends and Small Towns

Hold your hands up and shout if you love city life! Yes, you there. I see you sitting in that dark room typing by the light of your monitor! Since you love the city life why don't I give you my e-mail address and you can write with out having to leave the comfort of the rat race. It is: watchout4drivebyes@duckyourhead.com .

Life is so quiet here in this small town. I love it! New things are almost always enjoyable. Peace and quiet. It's so nice that I'm looking forward to my mid-life crisis!

All joking aside ... Safford is a small town that is expected to grow rapidly over the next five years. The employment here is mostly through the Phelps Dodge mining company. A new mine has recently opened and has created more jobs recently. I suppose that that is good, but it is drawing new comers from out of town as well.

A very large Super WalMart was built here recently. Across the street a big Home Depot was also built about the same time. Both are thriving businesses and fun to roam through. Yet, they are icons here of an era changing. New people move in, build fancy, expensive homes and the ambiance of our little Thatcher and Safford converts to the hectic pace ot the city.

An official of the U.S.D.A. Housing Authority told me that it is predicted that in the next five years the average rent for an apartment will be more than six hundred dollars!

A new cardiac center was built on the hospital grounds recently. Now that is a really big necessity! While we have a majority of cotton farmers here and college students from E.A.C., there is a large number of elderly people and disabled individuals here that really need the care. It's these people who have lived the history of this county. They are the heart of Safford and Thatcher!

Good friends and small towns are what make me relax and live more peacefully. How nice it is to be wandering around a local store day dreaming only to hear your name called from further down the isle! It's a friend from my church or some one that I've gotten to know from another place. The hug is on and the handshakes are a part of sharing the joy that you can see in each other's eyes.

People walk down the sidewalks for exercise and they wave as they pass buy. It's getting dark and a knock comes from the front door. No worries about wierdos. It's the neighbor bringing a bag of tomatoes! When the darkness of night sets in we close our front doors and prepare to retire for the night. The family businesses have all closed and "rolled up the side walks." It's time to rest for an early day tomorrow.

This is my town, my life and my friends. I choose to live here and to be a living part of my church, New Life City, untill the Lord orders my last breath. New comers? Hey, family!!! This old Hick has a place for you!!! Isn't that the way it's supposed to be?

Shumba

Shumba. In African it meanss "Lion." I've got a buddy. A real friend! He's a Lhasa Apso. If his blondish hair were at some length you might think of him as resembling a mini lion! Yet, the resemblance is more in his heart and personality. I don't know that he could be a hunter, like a lion is, but he definitly has the heart.

My parents gave him the name. He belonged to them for a number of years as an outdoor dog. He was their second Lhasa Apso following Lhasa Luv. Shumba shared the outdoors with Buster. Buster was larger and the more dominant of the two dogs.

In 2003 following a tragic event, 12 year old Shumba came to live with me. I'd always been kind of fond of that dog and was very blessed to have him come and join my home. He is the joy that breaks the silence!

He loves to take car rides and will endure long trips well. He's house broken and can even hold his urges for phenominal lenths of time or go on command. He's not the puppy any more, but occasionally still gets that glint in his eye that says it's time for mischief.

As strange as it sounds this dog actually knows how to play a joke! He will lay on your feet to warm them as his ancestors did for the kings in Tibet. He will lay beside you on a bed pushing his body close while demanding more space!

His feet are crooked and his back is a little achey. That's o.k. ... I'm a little "bent" too. Look into his big, beautiful eyes when he listens intently too you and you will see the mysteries and wonders of Tibet. Look deeper and you will see the loyalty of a best friend!

More photos!

Kitty need a snack!!

This was one of my first attempts to play with Photoshop. The cat belonged to a friend in Pima and the guy the cat is eating is Andrew P. a former room mate.

I set this up as the wall paper for my desktop and left the computer on for him to see it when he came home. The joke was well recieved and we enjoyed a good chuckle over it.

My Family

Family is such a wonderful word in my ears! My family had its struggles, as all families do, but I can only tell what I feel to be the best part of having the family that I did. There are no deep, dark family secrets. Just some honest joys to be recalled!

I think that my Father must have wanted a boy. They had two girls and in 1959 got their son and number four was my imaginary friend, Fuzz. Just kidding! There was no imaginary friend.

Dad took me hunting and fishing as often as he could. Grab Orchard Lake in Illinois and Reelfoot Lake in Tenessee seemed to be the best places to produce some good catches. There were other lakes fished in Canada, Florida and other places, but if I had to take a pick as a favorite I'd have to say that Reelfoot Lake was the best. Even the bluegill there had a nice size to them! And fishing aroung the Cypress knees on those trees always seemed to be as exciting as it was productive. Our spot on the lake was called Boardman's Resort. We'd get a nice room there, get settled in and I always had to run to the bait shop and check out the newest in fishing gear. When a day of fishing was over I always felt the need to spend just a little more time fishing aroung the boat docks. There was always a few to catch there!

Hunting birds was a thrill when the britanny spaniel, Duke, would go on point. We'd stalk up close behind him and shoot the game when it broke throught the brush. Quincy Acres ... how could you go wrong?!

We hunted the pinoaks of Arkansas in waders. We hunted geese near Canada, hunted Illinois and Indiana. Those were good days!

I was born in Carbondale, Illinois on Sept. 24 1959. I grew up with two older sisters, Nancy and Becky. Nancy was and is the older of the three of us. I alway thought of her as the smart one, a great tutor and was good at teaching me to see the logic in things. She gave me my interest in cameras and art. And she was the one that taught me how to swim and use a computer.

Becky, the good hearted of the three of us. There was always a joy about that girl that could put a smile onto anything in eye sight! If the family was together and a joke was to be had Becky's laugh was there to share...and it was contagous too! Becky gave me my sense of joy and reasoning.

You've all seen the commercials where the Mother cleans the child's cut and puts a bandaide on it? Well, good ol' Dad was the "painless doctor" and could take a fish hook out of a finger before you knew he did it. Momma was the mom who could always see right through me and know the truth despite what I said! More than that it was the bandage from her heart that healed us internally.

God knows I live my family! My neices make me proud to be an Uncle and my Brother in-laws are my real brothers! I could tell great stories forever, but there is only one I will tell right now. I will tell the others in separate stories later.

The word Mom means "inner strength" to me. As a young man I once peeked into the garage to see what was going on in there. I'd heard some noise that was rather out of the norm. When I looked in I saw Mom moving a refrigerator, without wheels, across the garage! That changed my perspective a bit!

Where does the inner strenth come in? Well, that's a real tear jerker. On May 2003 at 12:00 noon I held my wife as she died in my arms. I watched the life leave her eyes and felt the coldness of her spirit cut my soul in half as it left. I never knew such horrendous pain in all my years! I laid her body back down on the pillow hurting beyound the ability to cry. I reached up gently to close her eyes with one hand, but there was no strength in me at all. Mom's soft voice came over my shoulder, "Do you want me to?" "Yes," was all I could strangle out. How beautiful it was to see my Mother's sweet hand reach up and close the eyes of Christy's eyes! The room grew still all accept for the peaceful music and video that played on the t.v. above us. Mom disappeared briefly and I said my long good bye as only I knew how. Mom returned and together we walked back out to the lobby to rejoin family. Now, if anyone wants to argue inner strength with me they better think twice!

I love my family!

The Return - A New Twist?

It all happened so fast! I was standing on my porch when the blue sky went dark. Clouds filled the sky and the earth spit wide open! The ground shoot as if it quaked in anger! A trumpet sounded in the heavens and the clouds parted like a veil! It's my Lord! My Saviour! I stretched out my arms towards the King longing to come home! Then, as the great army descended with the King on His great, white steed; I sought that which I could take with me. I found my Bible and wondered had I hid not His word in my heart? I sought a map then recalled that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the LIght! What more could I need? The army fell violently upon the earth and many had left. Then my heart sank...deep with regret. I knew all these things, but had forgot to invite Him into my heart! The air grew cold and weeping could be heard around the land. Teeth nashed violently against their own bone as if in cadence to the fear in the air. Blood was spilled. Death was there.

Many, many years ago a man went to a cross. Nails pierced His hands. A crown of thorns ripped the flesh on his brow mocking Him as a king! The torn flesh on his body bore a scourging that only a Saviour could bear. And, in that, He was beaten beyond recognition. "Forgive the Father for they know not what they do!" were the words that parted His lips. His last and final breathe went Heavenward once more saying, "Into Thine hands I commit My soul." His head fell forward and He died.

The battle raged all aroung me. The rivers flowed red with blood and people ran for their lives! I have not the words to discribe the anguish more. I should have committed my soul to Christ and asked Him into my heart! Yet, I stood idly by, as the Roman souldier, an said "Surely this must be the Son of God." I cannot say I didn't know. All nature declared His glory! Now ... the price ... must ... be paid!

There is time for you yet. The price for you has already been paid in full on the cross with the greatest act of love!
Jesus rose from death on the third day and beat death once and for all. Would you like to thrust the spear in His side and acknowledge Him a bit too late or find that eternal love that is far beyound our pain?

A Different World - The Story

Time has no meaning. Yesterday was the same as today and tomorrow will be the same. There is a different world in everyone's mind. It is a world of perception and each world is unique. In those minds time is only as they percieve it, how they choose to use it, not certain how it will end. Time is a container for dreams and hopes and ... it has a dead line!

In my own world I can bend space and time. I can fold it in the middle and make the ends meet where the past becomes the future and the present is but a mist that lingers like a bad memory.

In my own world the doors all stay closed and the windows are shaded in colors of grey. My roof is light that dims only before the dawn and gives me peace for a new day.

In my own world I am the creature that stalks through the night. I am the eyes that glare from the branches above and I am the shiver that quakes your spine! I am the darkness that lives in your doubts.

In my world I am the monster in your child's closet. I am the eyes under his bed that wait for his feet to touch the ground. I am the moment of hesitation that caused the fear to flicker in his eyes. I am the scream that left your lips before your breathe quit.

In my world I am what ever I want to be, when I want to be it!I speak at my own command and I listen to no one! I am the chill in the night and the rays of the sun that sear your flesh.

In my own world I am lonely for I am the product of my own fears. I listened to the world and became what I am. I forgot God, but He didn't forget me! I was lost, but now am saved!

In my own world I am no longer of the world itself for the King of Kings ruled over my fears and I began to listen. Yet, I am not perfect. I strive to be more like Him. Not of my world , but of the Kingdom to come!

In HIS world I am a child of God and an heir to the throne! In His world I am worthy! In my own world I was not. How much better to live in His world ... to know the promise and joy of His eternal grace in Heaven!

In your own world you can come to know the Saviour! To bridge the gap of sin and fear. And you may come to know the peace as only the Saviour can give. It is your choice ... the world or the Way. There are living waters waiting for you!

Richard B. Lee

Survey - Your Opinion, Please!

Contrast, composition, subject matter, lighting, framing and contrast are only a few of the technical considerations in building a good photograph. This survey is not about the mechanics of photography, but more so eye appeal.

1. When you see something that really catches your attention and makes you want to look closer at it ... what would you say that the element is that catches your eye?

2. What subject in a photograph is most interesting to you? I.E., people, pets, scenery, effects, etc. Be specific...tell us why.

3. Do you see an unusual market for photography?

4. Do added effects by computer interest you?

5. Do you like bright and vivid colors or soft, warm images?

6. Do you read while you are eating dinner?

7. When you see an image on a television commercial what is it that makes you want to go out and buy that item?

8. What are your photographic needs?

9. Do you consider photography an art?

10. Do you hang photos on your walls?

11. How do you define "ambiance?"

12. Are you a photographer?

13. What forms of art do you enjoy the most?

14. Are you camera shy or a ham?

15. What kind of camera do you prefer to use?

Thank-you for your time!

Photo by Don B. of Oak Creek Canyon in Sedona, Az.

Bobby B.

Bobby B. was one of my former room mates a few years back. He's like a brother to me in many ways. When the "chips are down" he's the first up to bat. He's always checking in to make sure that everything is o.k. He has a great mechanical apptitude and has, more than once, been willing to help fix the car.

Like a big brother he's a bit rough physically and has a rampant sense of humor, but the man bears many a talent that is an asset to a friendship.

Bobby is a short, round, bearded rascal with a rough past and a great future hopefully as a minister. He's half Mexican and half Kentuckian ... a combination that is rather interesting! Put this boy in the kitchen and he can cook like no one else!

Wagon, horses and a good, reliable gun were and are a big part of the old west.
Yup! "Are" fits that sentence like a good holster fits a Colt! Graham County hosts sights that remember Billy the Kid, Geronimo and just maybe a part of the old, Coronado Trail. If you roll through our county you might see a small town here and there. But, take the time and stop and visit with some of the locals. Take a look around the Chamber of Commerce in Safford. You might find a local person whose family remembers the Powers Brothers battle or can tell you exactly where Treasure Flats is ... if you can handle Cadillac Curve! The past is still alive. Just keep listening to the locals. It may lead you to ... adventure!

Military Wagon to be Rebuilt

This photo was taken out at the Don S. ranch near Ft. Thomas. The body of this very old, military wagon was removed so that it could be restored back to its original condition using the same type of materials that it was originally made with in the old days. It will be shown in various chuck wagon competitions around the country and it will be judged for it authenticity.

Don dresses up the part of a wagon master and sports a beautiful. grey mustache as well. He and his business partner even serve up authentic, chuck wagon meals!

Scoliosis

Life takes a strange "twist" from time to time. My life has been abundantly blessed to have grown up in a wonderful, Christian home. I grew up hunting and fishing. Traveling was always a wonderful experience that helped shaped my perspective as I grew up.

It's the physical end of life that has been a bit rough. The "twist" in life came when I was diagnosed with scloliosis during my early teenage years. For those who don't know what scliosis is I can tell you that it is basically a curvature of the spinal cord. In some cases it may be induced by a traumatic incident and in many cases it is hereditary. My case is hereditary. In the hereditary cases it becomes a progressive situation in which the spine continues to curve with time. My curvature began at a 38 degree curvature in the '70's and has now progressed to 58 degrees.

During my surgery to correct a percentage of that curve the doctor began by putting me in traction to loosen up the spine and prepare it for the surgery. During the surgery the spine was straightened as much as was feasible, vertebrae were fused at specific points and a Harrington Rod was installed. Unfortunatly, the rod broke in future years, but remained fused down.

In years to come I was to discover hypertension, nerve damage (Brachial), arthritis and a winged, left scapula. I've seen my share of doctors and will likely see many more in the future, but I've learn one thing from all of this. When pain becomes a chronic thing and you become limited in what you are able to do just remember to live one day at a time and if you have to, one hour at a time!

Advice? Listen to the advice of your parents, your doctor and your sports coach if you have one. Don't be apathetic and take good care of yourself when you are young. Find a home church and get as close to the Lord as you can! Be wise and take advice where you can.

It may not seem like it during the pain but there are blessings for you. The promises of the Bible are true!

"Roo"

"Roo" is the nickname for a very special friend! Rhonda, or Roo, lives in Australia. She, and her family, are members of the Salvation Army Christian Church there. She has a sweet daughter, Nicole, and a great husband, Steve.

Roo came to work for me in my photgraphy business that I work in as a parnership. She became a volunteer, Adminstrative Assistant and has been one of the most essential component of the business. I have never seen any one take an assignment and finish it as quickly as this young lady does!

If I could some up the qualities of Roo in one word it would be utterly impossible! I would be happy to say that she is honest, very trust worthy, bears integrity and lives the faith and practice of a true Christian an many ways. I believe that if she was placed into an empty room with one person who was not a believer that person would not only become a believer, but would delight in the grace of God!

Roo, I tip my hat to you, my friend!

Sandy B.

Now here's a gal that I met when I was first leaning how to use Yahoo's IM. She was introduced to me by "Roo" P. I really took a "shine" to this person because she could take a little friendly teasing and dish it out too!

Sandy is a dear sister in Christ and one of a kind. She has the amazing ability to listen, but more so, to hear. She knows the true difference between sympathy and empathy and puts her knowedge of that into her friendships and relationships. She is genuine and sincere in every sense of the words.

At the time that I met Sandy I was living in a house over on 8th Ave. in Safford with my wife, Christy. Sandy was so sweet and kind as I tried to teach Christy how to do IM. I had hopes that she would find new friends that way. Sandy got to talk to her one night and the two became friends. Christy was not fond of typing, so it was that I occasionally relayed salutations between them.

Christy passed away almost three years ago. Her father has since passed away as well. Christy was only 41 yrs. old when complications of Myotonic Muscular Dystrophy took her life. Sixteen years of marriage became the past and heartache really messed me up for the past three years.

Sandy was and is a very patient friend. I was off line for a very long time after that. I was trying to get things back together again ... slowly. When I did come back on line her joy was clear and strong in her voice. She became a good "ear" for me and was willing to be their for me as I endured the healing time.

Sandy is not a pushy person or one that just wants to dump her problems on a friend. She is a real person with a real heart that she shares well. She even knows and understands the idiosyncrasies of disability as well! I sure do hope to lock this girl in a hug some day soon!

Tim & Willy - The Testimony

Aaarrghh! This is the photo off of my driver's license. I'm not very adept at computer stuff or this photo would've been in the profile. As you can see by the photo I'm happy to get it posted here. L.O.L.!

I've always loved to hear people laugh! It sounds so sweet when people cut loose with a good, belly laugh and let the joy of the Spirit come out. It tickles me when a whole group of people start laughing, break into tears then forget what they were laughing about in the first place.

Some time, around '96 or so, I greatly enjoyed calling in the radio station K.M.L.E. out of Phoenix. I was a fan of the morning team of Tim Hattrick and Willy D. Loon (stage names).
Tim was a member of a church in Ahwatooki and Willy attended Mesa Central Christian Church. I was happy to see real, believing Christians in the media! As a call in fan of theirs I was eventually dubbed "The Cacklin' Man and/or Cackler" because of my laugh. I loved to tease them when I called in, but they'd always manage to turn the tables and make me laugh like crazy. Often times the calls were recorded and played on air. My reputation became known around the area.

I enjoyed joking aroung with Tim & Willy during their shows at Wild Country, KMLE and KNIX radio stations for their stands on their faith. I'll never forget the remote broadcast at the Veteran's Memorial Colesium that they did. It was a part of an event or show that the colesium was putting on and there was quite a crowd. It came time for a prize drawing and the crowd pushed in close to the booth. During their introducion Willy said, "Praise the Lord!" to which a lady in the crowd piped up and said, "You can't be a Christian in the media! You're not a Christian!" Willy didn't hesitate for a second and Tim backed him up, "I am a Christian and a believer where ever I am!"

I have many good memories of those guys and the adventures that we shared. This one is my favorite! You know what? I am a believer where ever I am.

Photie Graphs!

A friend suggest that I should add a few of my photographs to my blog and give it a little more flavor. So, I will do that and tell a bit about the photograph.

This shot was taken west of Pima and just east of Ft. Thomas. Don W. owns a ranch there where he collects military wagons and others. Don restores these wagons back to original condition using original materials. He does shows around the the country competively.










This shot of the north end of Mt. Graham was taken from the golf course at Daley Estates west of south west of Thatcher.


More to come later!

Terrorist Movement!

8:42 a.m., Aug. 10, Thursday. I was taking Shumba out for his morning routine when I saw our property manager, "Bo," outside gathering all the trash containers to empty out at the big dumster. I dashed around the apartment, picked up the trash and threw it in the can before he got there to empty it.

Bo tells me that a major terrorist attempt on many major cities in the U.S. was attempted, but foiled. Liquid explosives were put into medicine bottles and other common container and smuggled through airports. President Bush is due to speak to the country at 8:50 a.m.

I went inside and turned on Fox news on cable's channel no. 51. I am going to try to document things here, for the record, as the President speaks. It's five minute till nine right now and he is on air. He is speaking from the airport in Green Bay, WI.

He is speaking in appreciation of officials in the U.K. and the British snd of how they aided in the foiling the attemp. He says that the U.S. and the U.K. were "on top" of this attempt very quickly. He gives credit to counter intelligence of both countries.

His speach was very short and gave his regrets to the incident and says that America will remain protected. It's 9:03 a.m. and he is done. He apparently was due at anothe important meeting.

Following the news they aaying that the terrorist might be El Quida, but cannot be 100% conclusive. 21, "home grown," British terrorist were arrested. They are in British custody. They are saying that the 21 may have been of Pakistani origin.

There are 10 sights that were market for attack, but did not reach the U.S. All incoming flights from Europe and relevant countries are being heavily watched. Many airports are locking down on code orange. All fluids are being baned from being brought onto planes.

The battle in Lebonon has escalated in detail and the news is moving back and forth from the station to the reporters overseas. The reporters are not divulging their immediate location, but views of tanks and the sounds of gun fire can be easily heard. They are saying that the town of Kiyan is currently under attack by the I.D.F. 50 caliber guns on top of tanks can be heard. They are predicting this to be a very long war. It's 9:19 a.m now and I will return later when details are more conclusive.

Catfish

"Fishing? In Arizona? What kinda' bait ya' gonna' use to fetch a catfish outta' a field of sand?! Dry gulchin' fish from yer wagon, eh?" I grew up fishing in southern Illinois and Indiana. The closest I thought I'd ever get to real fishing out here would be shooting fruit off of a prickly pear cactus! Gotta' fish them things off the ground mighty carefully!

Well, the reality is that you just don't see many buck boards down at Cluff Ponds or at any of the resevoirs. Guns can be carried in public as long as they're exposed and catfish can be caught in irrigation canals! Don't that beat all?!!

One fella' in a local sporting goods store claimed that the fish bite on the same things that they do back home. I think not! Back home there was as many fish to catch as there were sow bugs to bait yer hook with! Back there you fish around the cat tails and out here ya' gotta' fish around the rocks just right.

Now, cat fishin' ... that there's a different story! Put some heavy test line on yer pole and follow yer neighbor down the canal and ya' might just catch yerself some dinner. Find a pocket in the crik bed and ya' might get sumpin' that'll bend yer pole!

One night I was fishin' at a stocked pond in Chandler, Az. with a buddy. I was told that they had put in an elbino catfish that topped 12 lbs! If'n ya' caught it and showed it to the office ya' got 50.00 off'n yer rent the next month. What kinda' country hick gonna' pass that up? Fifty bucks'll buy ya' a lot of stink bait if'n ya' don't eat it 'fore ya' get home!

Well now, just after dark that night my big ol', red bobber with a light in it took a nose dive. I set that treble hook nice and tight and let ol' Bessie have a run! I figured she was a big 'un by the way that there line was a pullin'.

It warn't too long after we got our two line tangled that I realized I had Mr. Red Eyes the elbino himself! I kneeled down to lip the ol' boy and just as I did the spinklers came on and I slipped right on into the drink! Danny was laughin' his tacos off as he come 'round to help and I was flounderin' about in the water tryin' to grab what ever line I could get my hands on.

Red had shown us an adventure. I didn't mind the loss too much. What's a bad day a fishin' compared to a good day at work? You just ain't been a fishin' less sumpin' silly happens!

Now, I'm thinkin' 'bout tryin' them canals ......

Don B.

Don. That name has been around since the early 1980's. We worked together as photographers for the church's newspaper, The Central Connection. It was a production of Mesa Central Christian Church in Mesa, Arizona. Don then and now volunteers his time as an audio and visual engineer for the church. Don is a quiet man of intelligence. He has a great grasp of things tecnical and a sense of reasoning that defines logic well. His interest in photography combined with his spirit of adventure make him an enjoyable friend to share photo shoots with on any outting! Don has been a close friend through good times and bad. He knew me and Christy before we got married, during our adventures (medical) in marriage and was beside me at her passing. Don knows what a friend really is and shares interests as only a friend can.

Gerald L.

The morning service at church this Sunday morning was great! The music was inspiring and the sermon was right on target as usual. The service had concluded and people milled about chatting as the closing music played out on the stage. I was slowly making my way through the crowd and visiting with friends as I made my way through the sancturary. I noticed a man still sitting quietly near the front in meditation. It almost seemed as if he needed help, but I could not be certain. He seemed to be new there and I knew nothing about him. I met our pastor, Phil, at the door and he told me that Gerald was a minister that lived in Winslow and visited New Life frequently. After a short time I introduced myself to Gerald and got to know him and his family. It is a real joy to know this man and the true example of a believer that he is today! His heart is good and he lives fully on the Word. I don't think I've ever met someone quite as sincere and genuine as Gerald. He seeks to help others in many ways, has a great sense of humor and does not hesitate to show his love for God!

Benjamin L.

When I was first introduced to the internet I was learning how to work it on a text based, 8088 computer system with a green, monocrome screen that was generously given to us by my brother in-law, Derwin. It was thought that it would provide good outside contact after having been house bound from post surgical recovery.

Through the Aztec free net service from A.S.U. in Tempe, Az. I began to learn my way around the internet and Aztec's message boards. There I met Jeanne B. and her husband. Jeanne was a writer and a great friend who encouraged me to delve into e-mail. And it was through the e-mail that she introduced me to Benjamin, a Navajo friend from Window Rock, Az.

Meeting Benjamin at Jeanne's Christmas party was a real delight. Not only was I honored that Benjamin was willing to share stories from the Navajo culture, but he was happy to be an e-mail friend as well!

Benjamin was and is an admirable person. His perception of his blindness was to call it an "inconvenience" as opposed to addressing it as a disability. He did and still does all the things that he had to do and wanted to do without excuse.

On my first week's vacation to the reservation I was amazed to watch him as he moved about with confidence. I watched as he carefully put his fingers under the burner to feel the flame from the gas and determine the heat level or its being turned on. I helped with sheep shearing, hauling water and much more, but nothing was more curious than watching Benjamin climb all the way to the top of a windmill that moved the well! It was certainly a feat most youngsters would have never considered. Yet, here was a man with limitations defying their boundries with success!

Benjamin worked for the computer tech. center in Window Rock. From there he often corresponded with me by e-mail. To know this man is both an honor and a priviledge.

Greg M.

It seems to me that in our "wonder years" of high school and junior high school that every one must have at least one friend that they are close to throughout each school year.

Greg M. joined me in boy scouts, intermural basketball and many of our classes. We shared opinions of pretty girls that we assumed were unapproachable, teamed up when other guys tried to pick on one of us and knew how each other played on an open basketball court.

We both groaned at the necessity of jock staps and white shorts that were as uncomfortable as they looked. We dreaded the physicals that always seemed to show up at the worse time and the worse place for exams! Yet, together, we weathered the years of old, school teachers and battle ready principles.

These were the wonder years!

Zambia

Zambia! To the mind of a thirteen year old boy that word coming from my father's mouth meant adventure! It was sa chance to break free from my surroundings and to strike out into a new world, to taste a new culture and see life from another angle.

I had been with my family to Rhodesia (Now Zimbabwe) in the late 60's. My parents explained to me that I was too young at that time to remember much of that trip and stated that this trip coming up would be a great opportunity to see the country with new eyes.

Just the excitement of the airports and the flight overseas was satisfying to my young mind. Curiousity was peaked as the adventure continued. Landing at the airport in Kitwe was a wonder in itself as I realized how the airport there was so much different! I was now the minority in a busy, but friendly world.

I had considered buying souveniers throughout the stay. My first was nearly a shirt bearing the logo of the country, "Zambia in the Sun!" There were many choices and patience dictated the moment.

More curiously was the fact that the words that were being spoken around me were not english! Words rambled around my head from passerbyes of that land that now became very foreign to me as well as fascinating.

The fact that english was the internationally spoken language everywhere that we went did not deter the fact that Zambia had 27 different dialects! I began listening to the words in Chibimba and repeating them in my head hopeing to learn some of the language.

There were many more wonders yet to be described.

Friends

Out of respect for the privacy of my friends I will not mention last names. I will only state first names in reference.

My friends are all unique in one way or another. That is not a relflection on them, but the choices that I make as being good ones. They are characters whom I can relate to in one of many ways. The first charateristic that comes to mind is that they are alway Christians. Often they can personally relate to disability issues in one way or another. Often they bring interesting facets of their cultures into the friendship. More than often they bear a delightful sense of humor!

I would like to find a grade school friend of years past! His name was Alan C. of Carbondale, Ill. He was a thin, blonde haired friend who spent many a summer day with me darting around Carbondale on our bicycles. We would race from our separate homes to the water tower and back again as children do ... imagining themselves in some great adventure.

Introduction

Good day to each of you reading this! This blog is a diary, a testimony and the stories of my own personal life. I hope that you will find them interesting and will add your comments as you feel necessary. All input is welcome!

The words of this blog are intended to show the best in all situations and are not the critique of any individual. It is my hope that the blessings in my life may be attributed to the grace of God and the blessings of my friends and family as my greater joys in life.

The inclusion of any negative situations only represent the barriars or "inconveniences" that I've had to overcome through His strength.

This blog is both an outlet and a release for me as a way to express what I could not otherwise.

Again, please feel free to add your comments and thoughts when possible!

Sincerely,

Richard