Friday, January 20, 2006

The next generation



It's been difficult to write for the last few weeks. Sharing thoughts starts with having them. My mind has been whirling, but not my fingers. I have been flitting between work for short story competitions, the Harry Flash mystery plot, study of dialogue and police procedure and feeble attempts at general freelance work via the project management institute.
I had trips to Peoria, and England, interspersed with an internal physical exam, the prep for which can only be described as distinctly unpleasant. I am pleased to report that all three had satisfactory results.

The trip to England was catch up with family. I met my grandson of 14 months, Freddie, whom I had not seen in the flesh for a year and fell in love with him. A gentler, happier child I have never seen. My granddaughter, Faith is now a photo shy 3 year old, but as adorable as ever and my 3-week-old grandson, Lucas, has a lot to live up to.

Trips to Halifax, Nova Scotia and Missoula Montana for June weddings are in the works. I am tempted to try salaried employment. Don't let anyone tell you that working for yourself is easy. It requires immense discipline, drive and commitment. A steady paycheck is a dreadful temptation. I am going to get out more, put a routine together, and be more aggressive with my time. It is too valuable to squander.
There has to be a reason to be an Englishman in Boston.

Monday, January 02, 2006

There and back again...get the picture.

As I said in an earlier post, this is American Eagles escape method from the front of the aircraft, which sits 5 feet 10 inches above the ground. Not a great picture, but the little plane that could was shaking about as I tried to take this shot of the safety card. Click the image to see a full size version.
The more I look at it, the greater is the pained expression on the face of both participants. The other thing I noted is that both are women and wearing long pants. You can play with any combination of women, men, children, short skirt, long skirt, old young short or tall and come up with some interesting combinations that would cause a significant problem for either of them and the passengers waiting behind. In a panic you might even have passengers tumbling out and piling up on the ground. In the words of someone famous - it's the economy (section) stupid.