Nathan Sawaya

I would like to introduce my readers to Nathan Sawaya a mind blowing Lego artist. His works of art are mind blowing as witness with this masterful work of Lego art. Mr. Sawaya’s art is currently touring North American museums in a show titled, The Art of the Brick. It’s the only exhibition focusing exclusively on LEGO as an art medium. If this exhibit comes to your city...check it out...you will not be disappointed.

Customize Your Wheels

Are you looking to make a statement with your auto...then number plates is the site for you. Their site allows you to search their massive...and I mean massive selection of private number plates, ageless car registrations, prefix type personalised number plates and current style number plates. This site has all the information you need to personalize your car plates such as Transfer Procedures, F.A.Q., Number Plate History, Number Plates Law...everything necessary for you to understand and complete that custom signature plates to make your car reflect your attitude. When you decide on custom number plates for your auto this is the best site to help achieve that custom look your looking for.

Intel Processors Getting Smaller...

I recently read that Intel rolled out its newest generation of processors in November 2007, showcasing a sophisticated new process that crams up to 40% more transistors onto the company's chips. The most complex of the chips have 820 million transistors, compared with 582 million on chips using the current standard technology. Its difficult for me to perceive the smallness to the transistors and yet they keep getting smaller...awesome!

Add Curb Appeal To Your Home.....

You know your house is your most important asset, so to help you to improve or to preserve the value of your home exterior shutters offer a wide range of styles, sizes and colors of decorative exterior vinyl shutters, cedar wood, pine, composite exterior window shutters for your house windows. Putting exterior shutters on your home is dollar per dollar the most cost effective home makeover with the most dramatic effect. Whether you are keeping or selling your home, using custom exterior vinyl, cedar wood, pine, composite exterior window shutters as window treatments will instantly add "curb appeal" and brighten your whole neighborhood. Custom exterior shutters add a whole new look to your windows that you will enjoy for years to come.

College...The Money Drain

Three years ago I took an advanced Visual Basic programming course at The University of Toledo and was very surprised at what it cost to take one 4 hour class. Today I read that college costs have risen 48% faster than the consumer price index since 1983. According to Forbes the federal government is at least partly to blame, because of federal tax credits, grants, and deductions and government subsidized loans have soared 151% over the past 10 years after inflation to $94 billion. Forbes reports that success on that front may owe something to their investment on lobbying, where they've outspent the real estate and oil and gas industries over the last 10 years. My wallet tells me that the cost can't keep going up, it has to slow but then again I will pay almost any price for my childern to graduate college.

Country Music Heaven...

Do you like Country Music well this site is the jack pot. Its loaded with all the latest country info you could ever want or dream is out there. Artist Listings, Videos, Country Music Lyrics, Top 10's, New Releases and much, much more. Check this web site and find out all the latest info and gossip on your favorite Country Music Artist and keep up to date with your country music taste.

Online Help for Veterans...

I recently ran across an article about vets and how there is an easier way to apply for pension benefits. So I looked into it and this is what I found. Project VetAssist a private non-profit organization offering free on line service, guides vets and their survivors applying for the VA Improved Pension Program. The website provides forms to download and step-by-step advice to complete them and the approciate VA office to send your forms.
Financially limited veterans who are 65 or older or physically disabled...and had at least 90 days of service during World War II, Korea, Vietnam or Gulf wars....can apply for the pension program.

Did You Purchase a Lemon...

Have you ever purchased a lemon car, truck, van, SUV, motorcycle, boat or dealing with a lemon consumer product? The state Lemon Laws and other federal consumer protection laws could help you get rid of that lemon! The lemon laws are different in each state, so click on the state on the US map where you purchased your defective vehicle or product, for a lemon law case review from several lemon law attorneys listed on the site, or visit lemon law statutes by state for more information. Do you need a Lawyer?
The answer depends upon which State you Purchased or Registered your car in. In some States and with proper documentation, you simply file a Complaint. In other States, you will need to hire an Attorney. Check out this site for Lemon Law information to determine if you need assistance dealing with a lemon. In California California Lemon Law affiliates have helped thousands of consumers using state and federal lemon laws. You could qualify for money back, or a replacement for your lemon. There is plenty of help out there to resolve these issues...so stand up for your consumer rights and get your lemon consumer product issues resolved. Its your hard earned money so don't be left holding a lemon, seek help to resolve your lemon issues.

Veterns Listen Up.....

To all veterans of the United States Military if you have any medical issues that are not being addressed I would encourage to visit the following link: Veterans Affairs This link will help you in starting to understand the procedures required to help you to receive earned VA medical care. The most important issue to remember is to call or write your local VA Rep. and request parer work to process a medical claim. All major cities in the U.S. have VA clinics where veterans can go for immediate care for colds and flu that sort of thing. In Toledo Ohio the address is Toledo VA Outpatient Clinic 3333 Glendale Ave. phone number 419-259-2000. I encourage all veterans to take care of their bodies and seek preventive medical attention such as a check up, blood pressure, and all other issues.

Life Changing Move.....Moundville WV Adena Mound

On May 9th I left Swanton Ohio headed to Wilmington NC to find a new job and a new life. On the way I spent several days sightseeing. I ended up in Moundville, West Virginia at the site of the largest Adena Culture Indian Mound in North America. This was my second side trip of the day:
Access to the mound was closed when I arrived...however I did manage to get several photos of the mound...awe inspiring!

Lake View Cemetery....Wade Chapel

While at the cemetery I visited;
Dedicated in 1901, Wade Memorial Chapel was built in honor of Jeptha Wade, founder of The Western Union Telegraph Company, by his grandson. The exterior was designed by W. Dominick Benes and Benjamin S. Hubbell. The interior was designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany. The awe-inspiring window "The Flight of Souls" is the focal point in the Chapel's interior. The window is done in the Favrile technique developed by Tiffany, giving the glass an opalescence and iridescent quality by exposing it to chemicals and fumes of molten metals during the glass-blowing process. The mosaic on the chapel's west wall symbolizes the prophecy and law of the Old Testament.The mosaic on the east wall symbolizes the fulfillment of the law of the Prophets through the birth of Christianity.The Wade Chapel is a stunning piece of art. Everywhere there is symbolism...magnificent.

Lake View Cementary...John D. Rockefeller Memorial

While at the cemetery I visited;
John Davison Rockefeller began his career as an assistant bookkeeper for a Cleveland commission merchant. In 1863, Rockefeller entered the oil business, and in 1865 he left the commission business to work full-time in oil. He organized the Standard Oil Co. and became its largest stockholder when it was chartered in 1870. The oil business made him the richest man in the world, worth over $1 billion at the time of his death. He gave away $500 million dollars during his lifetime.
His grave is marked with a very simple headstone and I noticed there was coinage laying on top of it. I found out later that it is customary to leave loose change on the headstone...brings good luck. The tall, white-colored obelisk marks the family burial site.

Life Changing Decision....Moving

On May 9th I left Swanton Ohio headed to Wilmington NC to find a new job and a new life. On the way I spent several days sightseeing. My first side trip was to Lake View Cemetery 12316 Euclid Avenue Cleveland Ohio. It was simply stunning... While at the cemetery I visited;

The Garfield Memorial the final resting place of the 20th President of the United States, James A. Garfield.
In the crypt directly below the Memorial Hall are the bronze caskets of President Garfield (draped with an American Flag) and his wife Lucretia.

President Garfield was shot July 2nd, 1881 in the Washington train station by a disappointed office seeker. Garfield died from his wounds on September 19, 1881, two months short of his 50th birthday.

Friday Night Fishing...

This Friday night fishing trip with my friends Joe, Randy and Shandell turned out pertty good. Not bragging..I caught the biggest catfish weighing in at 7.5 pounds. We had a total of 11 weighing over 50 pounds...wow!

Daily Walk...

Had a visitor today while I was enjoying a beautiful morning walk in Northwest Ohio. This doe stood there for roughly 3 minutes..long enough for me to get my camera out of my pocket...turn on...and take picture. I see lots of deer..and yet I'm still excited to see and photograph them.

Daily Walk

I had a visitor today while walking Oak Openings Preserve. This beautiful Millard duck was forging for food as I walked up on him and as soon as he became aware or me..he tried to make a get-a-way. I managed to capture this image of his escape. Spring is really beautiful...the animals are starting to come out...and they are beautiful to behold.

Let's Go Fishing....The Maumee River..

Spent the night boating up and down the Maumee River and Turkey Foot Creek area catching large catfish with my friend Joe. The moon was almost full...the waters and winds were calm making it very pleasurable night on the Maumee River. It was not a very successful night...the fish were not biting...however I did manage to catch one...coming in at a measly 15.5 pounds...LOL! What a thrill!!!

Daily Walk...

Walking Oak Opening Preserve Metropark near Swanton Ohio I came across this Chipmunk that was busy doing whatever it is Chipmunks do. What was unusual...is that this one didn't run off after noticing me. It climbed onto this branch and posed...it was truly wondrous!

Old Time Rhyme...

Recently my dads sister Ms. Clara Cox 85 years young was talking about her school years...it was wonderful hearing her talk about her childhood and her experiences in a one room school house in Jellico Tenn. She point out that when the older childern would learn something pertty much everyone learned it including the youngest of the group. She them recited a Rhyme just as if it was yesterday she learned it...the sparkle in her eyes spoke volumes.

All good times are past and gone
and all good times are over
all good times are past and gone
there will be school no more

Job Search...

This was one tough week on the job front. Managed to get 4 resumes sent which is not enough...however the opportunities are not available in Toledo. My morale and confidence are high...along with my daily walk and exercise I hope to have the edge when I get that interview.

POW * MIA

Today Staff Sergeant Keith M. Maupin - POW*MIA 16-Apr-2004 was laid to rest after military authorities using DNA evidence identified and returned his body to his family. Maupin’s remain were found in Iraq, nearly four years after he was captured by insurgents. An Army general visited them and gave them the news, Keith parents said.

Maupin was a 20-year-old private first class when he was captured on April 9, 2004, after his fuel convoy was ambushed west of Baghdad. He had been driving a supply truck. Let us not forget this brave man and all the others that are following in his foot steps.

Mindblowing Lego Art...

I would like to introduce my readers to Nathan Sawaya a mind blowing Lego artist. His works of art are mind blowing as witness with this masterful work of Lego art. Mr. Sawaya’s art is currently touring North American museums in a show titled, The Art of the Brick. It’s the only exhibition focusing exclusively on LEGO as an art medium. If this exhibit comes to your city...check it out...you will not be disappointed.

Daily Walk...Sure sign of Spring..

Lets Play Ball

While visiting my folks I was reminded that spring is here...time to have fun outside, and enjoy the comforts of mother nature. I took this photo from behind 2nd base at the sports complex of St. Andrews Presbyterian College in Laurinburg NC.

Meet my Friend...Nana Gibson..

This wonderful lady is Nana Gibson of Laurinburg NC. I meet her 5 years ago and she has been a blessing in my life. Her body is frail but her mind is very sharp. She loves Carolina Basketball and can name all the players...I can't do that! I keep teasing her to call me whenever she get behind the wheel of a car..so I can get off the road..LOL! Whenever I'm home I invite her to come over to share stories and food with my family. I want her to feel loved and wanted and...if you live to be 93 years young you too can have blue hair...LOL! Seriously, I Love this lady and she bring joy to my heart...God Bless Nana Gibson!

Orton Plantation Gardens...

Landscape view of Orton Plantation. Orton Plantation Gardens are located on Highway NC 133, 18 miles south of Wilmington NC. Walking the gardens with all the Azaleas blooming created a beautiful landscape. I spent two hour walking and enjoying the grounds.

WWII Submarine Memorial...

Visiting the USS North Carolina Battleship in Wilmington NC...I came across this memorial honoring the memory of 52 US Submarines that were lost in WWII. I can relate to these men and some of their experiences because I too served in the subsurface fleet. Completing the professional requirements for qualifications in submarines...earning my silver dolphins and proudly serving my country.

Scotland County NC Sunset...

The weather in NW Ohio has been difficult this winter....I'm ready for some warm weather! While visiting my folks in late January the weather was nice..it was 55 degrees when I took this sunset picture 2 miles outside of my home town of Laurinburg NC.

Daily Walk..

I didn't see anything exciting to photograph today while walking...I decided to share a picture taken in February at Providence Metropark in Grand Rapids, Ohio. It was a beautiful sunny afternoon...cold by the water. I was there to see the setting sun!

Job Search...Daily Walk..

On my walk today I can upon these three deer. These three deer actually approached me and stop roughly 40 feet away..it was truly awesome! We stared at each other for 5 minutes and that was after a park ranger drove her patrol car down the path I was walking and came between me and them. It's walks like these that really help me with my anxiety and stress as I struggle to find that rewarding job.

PhotoHunt # 101: I Spy

Was having a difficult time coming up with something that would fit the bill for I Spy. I knew if I was patient something would come my way that would satisfy this weeks PhotoHunt. Shadow our family cat was awaken after I got excited about North Carolina's Basketball dramatic win over Virginia Tech in this years ACC tournament.

Job Search...

This has been one tough week in the job search...my emotions are all over the scale. I have been walking and doing projects trying to get out of this funk that I'm in. I replaced an alternator on the family car and saved myself $200 skins...that was good...and replace the headlight on my daughters car. Walking Monday I took this photo of a snow angel I made to lift my spirits...made me feel good.

Job Search...Daily walk..

This morning walking I ran up on about 10 to 12 deer grazing, resting and managed to grab this photo. They were about 100 yards away making this photo difficult and I'm happy with the results.

Now That's Cute...

Our family cat sleeping in his favorite spot...not a care in the world!!!

Job Search:

I have been having a extremely difficult time with this layoff. Personal issues along with no job market makes for a very stressful time! It has been one issue after the other..so I take it one day at a time...pray that I will be resourceful in my job hunt and successful in my personal issues. Amen!

Stress Relief...

Completed this 500 piece puzzle as part of my regiment helping me regain my concentration and keeping my mind active during this trying time. My son contribute some time to this effort and I would say we have about 12 hours into it. The mountains on the right handed side were tough for me because of the colors no variation, no reference.

POW * MIA....

You don't hear much from the National Media about the Missing or Captured American solders in Iraq...a country under the control of the U.S. Military. There are 4 brave U.S. Army servicemen listed as missing/captured in Iraq:

Staff Sergeant Keith M. Maupin - POW*MIA 16-Apr-2004
Ahmed Qusai al-Taei: Status - POW*MIA 23-Oct-2006
Spc. Alex R. Jimenez: Status - POW*MIA 12-May-2007
Pvt. Byron W. Fouty: Status - POW*MIA 12-May-2007

As we near the fourth anniversary of the capture of Staff Sergeant Keith M. Maupin let us not forget the sacrafice these men are enduring and pray for there speedy recovery.

Remortgages and Remortgaging...

With all the troubles homeowners are going through here is the USA...one needs options and information to stay a head of the curb. Magic Money Remortgage is your online resource for everything associated with mortgages. One article that caught my attention was about Remortgage Products that listed several options including several that I didn't think of. It is possible, and quite often most favourable to remortgage with the same lender. This can be done by extending the life of the existing mortgage in order to reduce the amount of the monthly mortgage, or you may want to remortgage because the terms and conditions no longer meet the requirements of the home-buyer. Magic Money Mortgages has the information to connect you with the right mortgage for your situation...check them out!

Job Search...Daily Walk..

It was 9 degrees when I went walking this morning...the crisp air and the frozen ground made my walk very enjoyable. Part of the trail I was on runs parallel with Swan Creek..and I managed to snap this shot of the frozen landscape.

Natures Beauty...

My wife had surgery Friday and I wanted her to feel beautiful so I got these flowers to brighten her day and her spirit.

Ultimate Sacrifice...

On 16 Feb 1944 Sixty Four years ago today 8 U.S. Army Paratroppers drowned on a night training exercise in Lake Kinney Cameron located in northern Scotland County, North Carolina. These men were part of the advance wave of young Americans trainning for the invasion of Europe who never made it to the battlefields but their sacrifice was not in vain and its an honor to pay my respects to these brave men.

Job Search...Daily Walk..

I managed to walk this morning for the 3rd straight day as part of my wellness plan to make me feel better and took this picture of the winter landscape. These daily walks are also helping me cope with my unemployment anxiety and I hope will give me the edge if and when I get an interview.

Job Search...

This has been one tough week on the job front...very few opportunities available in NW Ohio! My mental condition this week set me back for a few days...But am now starting to come around...I think! Managed to walk the last 2 days and had lunch Thursday with 2 friends from work. That really helped me...Thanks Men! My goal for today is 1 resume mailed, and walk. My wife is having surgery this afternoon..So I will be with her in this very difficult time for her.

Job Search...

The last several days I have been anxious...managed to get 1 resume sent Friday and 1 resume sent today. The job market is tight in NW Ohio, however there are opportunties....I'm determined to find the right one for me! I managed to exercise, ate light, and did several projects around the house. Will be happy when this cold weather breaks!

Maumee River at Flood Stage....

Wednesday night we had several inches of rain in NW Ohio that melted the 5 inches of snow laying on the groung. The next day the Maumee River was at flood stage covering Providence Dam located in Grand Rapids, Ohio by 2 feet....awesome...the power of nature.

Job Search...

I woke up today feeling anxious...goal for today..mail 1 resume, job search, and exercise. While I feel anxious..my moral is high...things will get better...I will succeed..I will be successful..!

Happy Birthday....

Today I counted and celebrated a Birthday...In truth I have stop counting and celebrating them...at least in public! LOL! Happy Birthday!! In Gods Love..!

Job Search...

Today on the job search front there is nothing to report. My unemployment has been shut off because my x-employer is paying me severance over a 4 week period instead of a lump sum and thus no unemployment for 4 weeks. As for insurance...I'm being compelled to pay for it myself and "Bay" will pay me back when I provide a paid receipt. Lets throw up more obstacles…kick a man when he is down! How can this be healthy for the employees that still work there? I know it’s not healthy for me! I managed to walk, ate light, and gave praise…I will be delivered! Amen!

Laurinburg-Maxton Airbase...

This is Command 1st Sergeant John B. Leach (Ret. U.S. Army) standing beside the WWII Combat Glider Pilots Memorial at the Laurinburg-Maxton Airbase in Scotland County NC. This man started the Scotland County Association of Military Retirees in the 1980's and is instrumental in getting this memorial erected honoring these brave men. The Laurinburg-Maxton airbase was the largest glider training facility in the nation during WWII and saw thousands of America's young men.

Lake Kinney Cameron...

Landscape of Lake Kinney Cameron, Scotland County North Carolina.

Lake Kinney Cameron...

Located in the northern part of Scotland County North Carolina is a little known memorial dedicated to 8 paratroppers of the 551st Parachute Infantry Battalion who died on a night parachute jump 16 Feb 1944 at Lake Kinney Cameron. These men paid the ultimate price securing the freedom of these United States of America and I find it an honor to pay tribute to these brave men.

Job Search...

Its been 10 days since I've blogged about my job search. I have nothing to report on the job front. I have been struggling with state unemployment office in securing unemployment...something about a severance package...I haven't seen one dime of that package...I'll try again tomorrow. I walked...ate light..and worked on resumes.

Carolina Sunrise.....

I snapped this sunrise picture at St. Andrews Presbyterian College in Laurinburg NC on a clear wonderful January morning. The image is the Katherine MacKay Belk Bell Tower overlooking Lake Ansley C. Moore.

Job Search...

Today I woke up feeling good...managed to get one resume mailed. I'm heading to NC to visit my folks...mother having knee surgery..to be supportive. This is tough because my mind is telling me I need to be focused on getting a job...and not with my folks. I have plans to spend the time wisely with my dad doing projects around his home plus I want to take him several places...and entertain my mom if she is able. I will also keep looking over the Toledo Blade on the internet. I will have fun...if it kills me..! This is part of my recovery program...the part where you go with-the-flow. Wish me luck...!

Perception of Poor Quality Hurts US Autos Makers!

I read and found intersting that CNW Market Research meets with a group of would-be car buyers and plays a trick on them. Someone at the company, which specializes in auto sales trends, takes a Toyota Camry, removes any identifying logos, and tells them it's a new model from one of the U.S. based auto makers. Or it takes a domestic car and tells them it's a Toyota or another import model. Either way the results are the same. "If they think it's an American car, the perception of the vehicle falls dramatically. Detroit really gets a bum rap in the U.S."" said Mr. Spinella, vice president of CNW Market Research. The issue of public perception is coming into sharper focus for the big 3 as they try to compete and survive in this global economy.

Need Web Hits...

Anyone in the e-commerce business knows the importance of getting web traffic to your sight...and just as important getting them to return. Well Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) a company from New Zeland is redefining e-commerce by a process of improving the volume and quality of traffic to a web site from search engines via natural or organic search results for targeted keywords. These guys and girls rethink your web site content and adjust it to be presented to search engines in a very specific but subtle way in order to achieve top rankings for popular search phrases. If your at the top of the search engine list your likely to get more hits...and there folks have 9 years in the business with proven sucess.

Depression....Get Help..!

Several people I love suffer from a devastating disease called depression. Some of the most recognized symptoms of depression include a profound feeling of sadness or loss of interest. If you've been experiencing some combination of the following emotional or physical symptoms for more than two weeks, and it clearly interferes with your life, discuss your concerns with your doctor:

Excessive or inappropriate feelings of guilt
Sadness throughout the day, nearly every day
Loss of interest in or enjoyment of your favorite activities
Feeling of worthlessness
Trouble making decisions
Fatigue or lack of energy
Sleeping too much or too little
Change in appetite or weight
Trouble concentrating
Thoughts of death or suicide
Aches and pains
Restlessness

It's important to seek medical help if you think you are depressed because there are treatments and therapies available to help with the symptoms of depression.

Job Search...

Today I woke up anxious....I have a friend who told me to take it a day at a time...that is good advice! On the job front I worked on one resume...managed to walk in the snow...ate light...and didn't start any new projects.

Job Search....

Today I decided to leave off...the week and day...on the title. It doesn't fit well with the mental attitude that I'm trying to embrace! I don't want to look back or be constantly reminded of that day, therefore it will now be titled Job Search. I desire, want, crave, hope and any other adjective you can come up with...to look at this layoff as an opportunity...not as a misfortune. I need to say this to get it out of my system: Bay Controls Inc. stinks as a company!
I need not say more...Thank You Jesus...for saving me! Today..I managed to get one resume ready to send...MLK Day..no mail! Filed for this weeks weekly benefits, and signed up for a Veterans Job Search Workshop in February all done on the web.


Finished reading "All Quiet on the Western Front", walked...but cold as heck...and did one maze puzzle..ate light..all in a effort to regain my concentration and my dignity.

PhotoHunt #93: Important

Providence Dam located on the Maumee River was built in 1838 to provide water for the Ohio and Erie canal and played an important role in the development of Ohio. When the canal opened it provided a way for farmers to get their crops to the world and help turn this region into a bread basket. Providence Dam played an important role in that event.