Disclaimer

If you do not know me (I mean, really know me) then there is something you need to understand before you read this blog: I value the truth above everything else... except a good laugh. A good laugh will almost always beat the truth as far as I’m concerned. Everything you read on this blog will be true, somewhat true, or something I made up in an effort to get a laugh. Sometimes I will go on a rant that I don’t really mean (or only kind of mean). Sometimes I will mean what I write only to completely change my mind a year, month, or day later. Such is life. By reading this blog you agree not to get offended by anything I write (or, at the very least, you agree not to tell me or anyone else that you are offended). It is worth noting that my employer does not endorse my blog (or even read it, to tell you the truth). The Wife also does not endorse my blog (though she will read it from time to time). I am not paid to write this... it’s just my way of giving back to the community. I have, and will, touch on a wide range of subjects and will give my opinion on these subjects. Again, most of what I say is for laughs but every now and then I will say what I really think and feel (see my views on Westboro Baptist Cult). How will you know when I’m serious and when I’m trying to get a laugh? You’ll know. And if you don’t know, well... maybe this isn’t the best thing for you to be reading. So, sit back, read and enjoy. Leave comments if you want and don’t be afraid to publicly follow me.



Sunday, September 27, 2015

Sweet By and By

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant William P. Thompson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 6, 1864, at Wilderness, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag of 55th Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.).

Private First Class William Thompson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 6, 1950, near Haman, Korea. His citation reads:

Pfc. Thompson, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. While his platoon was reorganizing under cover of darkness, fanatical enemy forces in overwhelming strength launched a surprise attack on the unit. Pfc. Thompson set up his machine gun in the path of the onslaught and swept the enemy with withering fire, pinning them down momentarily thus permitting the remainder of his platoon to withdraw to a more tenable position. Although hit repeatedly by grenade fragments and small-arms fire, he resisted all efforts of his comrades to induce him to withdraw, steadfastly remained at his machine gun and continued to deliver deadly, accurate fire until mortally wounded by an enemy grenade. Pfc. Thompson's dauntless courage and gallant self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit on himself and uphold the esteemed traditions of military service.

First Lieutenant Clifford Thomson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 2, 1863, at Chancellorsville, Virginia. His citation reads:

Volunteered to ascertain the character of approaching troops; rode up so closely as to distinguish the features of the enemy, and as he wheeled to return they opened fire with musketry, the Union troops returning same. Under a terrific fire from both sides Lieutenant Thomson rode back unhurt to the Federal lines, averting a disaster to the Army by his heroic act.


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The I’m just sayin… Hymn of the Week

Sweet By and By


This hymn was written by S. Fillmore Bennett (lyrics) and Joseph P. Webster (music). Listen to Randy Travis sing this song and try to tell me it isn’t great. You can learn more about the hymn here.


There's a land that is fairer than day
And by faith we can see it afar
And the father
waits over the way
To prepare us a dwelling place there.

In the sweet by and by
We shall meet on that beautiful shore
In the sweet by and by
We shall meet on that beautiful shore.

We shall sing on that beautiful shore
The melodious songs of the blessed;
And our spirits shall sorrow no more,
Not a sigh for the blessing of rest

In the sweet by and by
We shall meet on that beautiful shore
In the sweet by and by
We shall meet on that beautiful shore.

To our bountiful Father above,
We will offer our tribute of praise
For the glorious gift of His love
And the blessings that hallow our days.

In the sweet by and by
We shall meet on that beautiful shore
In the sweet by and by
We shall meet on that beautiful shore.
We shall meet on that beautiful shore...

Friday, September 25, 2015

That time we went to Golden Corral…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Peter Thompson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 25, 1876, at Little Big Horn, Montana. His citation reads:

After having voluntarily brought water to the wounded, in which effort he was shot through the head, he made two successful trips for the same purpose, notwithstanding remonstrances of his sergeant.

Sergeant Thomas Thompson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 2, 1863, at Chancellorsville, Virginia. His citation reads:

One of a party of 4 who voluntarily brought into the Union lines, under fire, a wounded Confederate officer from whom was obtained valuable information concerning the enemy.

Signal Quartermaster William Thompson (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 7, 1861, on board the U.S.S. Mohican. His citation reads:

During action of the main squadron of ships against heavily defended Forts Beauregard and Walker on Hilton Head, 7 November 1861. Serving as signal quartermaster on board the U.S.S. Mohican, Thompson steadfastly steered the ship with a steady and bold heart under the batteries; was wounded by a piece of shell but remained at his station until he fell from loss of blood. Legs since amputated.


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A couple of Saturday’s ago, The Wife and I received a text from Rebecca asking if we would like to eat lunch at Golden Corral. You might be surprised to find this out, but I usually try to stay away from “all you can eat” type places because I’ve found out over the years that I can eat a lot. The cheap side of me likes that… but the “trying to be healthy” side of me knows that isn’t good. Honestly, staying away from “all you can eat” situations is really the only time the “trying to be healthy” side of me wins. Anyway, Rebecca wanted to eat at Golden Corral and I’m not one to turn down a friend in need, so I said I would be happy to go. The Wife was working that day, so I was trying to figure out a way to slip out of the house without the kids noticing when The Wife sent a text saying we couldn’t make it for lunch, but would be able to do an early dinner. I suggested I could go to lunch with Jeremy, Rebecca and Lucas and we could just keep eating until early evening when The Wife and the kids could join us. Rebecca liked the idea, but we couldn’t gather enough votes to get it done.

The good news was I hadn’t fixed lunch for the kids yet, so I saved myself the trouble. Look, I’m not going to waste time and resources feeding my kids lunch when I’m then going to pay for them to eat all they can a few hours later. Anyway, the moment arrived and we went to Golden Corral. I had a ten course meal (the first course included veggies… which seemed to surprise Jeremy, Rebecca and The Wife)… About eight of the courses were desserts. At one point I told The Wife I could feel myself getting diabetes. It was just so good. I thought it would be great if Rebecca went into labor while we were in the restaurant (not to judge, but a lot of the people I saw in there looked like they’d either given birth or seen someone give birth in a lot stranger places). Sadly, she didn’t go into labor… so we left having all made some very bad decisions when it came to our eating choices.

The Wife snagged a to-go bag of cotton candy on our way out without the kids noticing, so we went back to our room when we got home to see if I really could put myself in a sugar coma. The kids were out in the den playing and generally being bad. We told them not to run and to be nice to one another, but with a secret bag of cotton candy ready to be eaten, we didn’t waste time making sure they listened to us. Just as we were getting to the bottom of the bag and my vision was starting to blur, we hear Daniel start to cry. This isn’t all that shocking because he has a mean sister… and he’s kind of a cry-baby/momma’s boy. Anywho, the big one (Mary Ruth) called for The Wife and said Daniel was hurt. Like all good mothers, The Wife shoved the last bit of cotton candy into her mouth and went to dish out some justice. She then called out to me. I went out there and saw Daniels head grow in front of my eyes. We were able to learn that he had been running and, it seems, ran into a door knob. We suspect the little one (Susie) pushed him into the door knob, but none of the witnesses felt safe enough to rat her out. The Wife did over hear Susie tell Daniel a little later, “Well, next time don’t get up all in my grill”… So she came to me and told me to go do something about it. I went and told Daniel to be careful around Susie. And stop crying so much. The Wife wasn’t happy with how I handled the situation, but I think I gave pretty good advice.

She ended up taking Daniel to the ER after doing her best to convince herself that he didn’t need to go. He got a stitch or two put into his head and came home ready to crawl into my bed and wake me up (I was so worried that I’d fallen asleep… in my bed… with the lights off).

Early the next morning Rebecca went into labor. Cute little sweet baby Ethan was born later that afternoon. So the one time we go to Golden Corral, one of us ends up at the ER and one of us goes into labor…

The Wife, "I think I should take him to the ER".  Me, "No sh!t".

The day after...

Maybe a wookie would keep him safe around Susie... maybe.

The Wife holding Ethan.  The Wife has a gift of finding what someone likes and taking it away from them.

She pulled his finger out of his mouth and told him not to suck it... this is what happened

Why would she do that?

Everything is ok now...

He felt much safer with me... because I'm nice.


"Uncle Greg... I feel so safe with you.  You just let me do what I want... because I'm a baby.  And you're nice".


Gangsta

The big one and the little one holding Ethan

All three with him

Me and Lucas

The Wife holding Ethan's cousin Jenna(fer)

"Uncle Greg, is Aunt Jen around?  Don't let her get me"


Add your own caption

Susie getting to hold Ethan... Mary Ruth was worried

Ethan liked having Daniel hold him

Lucas getting in on the picture fun

Big brother holding little brother

Wednesday, September 23, 2015

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CORY!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant John Thompson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 20, 1869, at Chiricahua Mountains, Arizona. His citation reads:

Bravery in action with Indians.

Major Joseph H. Thompson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 1, 1918, near Apremont, France. His citation reads:

Counterattacked by 2 regiments of the enemy, Maj. Thompson encouraged his battalion in the front line of constantly braving the hazardous fire of machineguns and artillery. His courage was mainly responsible for the heavy repulse of the enemy. Later in the action, when the advance of his assaulting companies was held up by fire from a hostile machinegun nest and all but 1 of the 6 assaulting tanks were disabled, Maj. Thompson, with great gallantry and coolness, rushed forward on foot 3 separate times in advance of the assaulting line, under heavy machinegun and antitank-gun fire, and led the 1 remaining tank to within a few yards of the enemy machinegun nest, which succeeded in reducing it, thereby making it possible for the infantry to advance.

Sergeant Max Thompson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 18, 1944, near Haaren, Germany. His citation reads:

On 18 October 1944, Company K, 18th Infantry, occupying a position on a hill near Haaren, Germany, was attacked by an enemy infantry battalion supported by tanks. The assault was preceded by an artillery concentration, lasting an hour, which inflicted heavy casualties on the company. While engaged in moving wounded men to cover, Sgt. Thompson observed that the enemy had overrun the positions of the 3d Platoon. He immediately attempted to stem the enemy's advance single-handedly. He manned an abandoned machinegun and fired on the enemy until a direct hit from a hostile tank destroyed the gun. Shaken and dazed, Sgt. Thompson picked up an automatic rifle and although alone against the enemy force which was pouring into the gap in our lines, he ??fired burst after burst, halting the leading elements of the attack and dispersing those following. Throwing aside his automatic rifle, which had jammed, he took up a rocket gun, fired on a light tank, setting it on fire. By evening the enemy had been driven from the greater part of the captured position but still held 3 pillboxes. Sgt. Thompson's squad was assigned the task of dislodging the enemy from these emplacements. Darkness having fallen and finding that fire of his squad was ineffective from a distance, Sgt. Thompson crawled forward alone to within 20 yards of 1 of the pillboxes and fired grenades into it. The Germans holding the emplacement concentrated their fire upon him. Though wounded, he held his position fearlessly, continued his grenade fire, and finally forced the enemy to abandon the blockhouse. Sgt. Thompson's courageous leadership inspired his men and materially contributed to the clearing of the enemy from his last remaining hold on this important hill position.


You can STILL help I’m just sayin… in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s

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I’d like to wish my good friend Cory a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We hope he has a GREAT day! Maybe multi-I’m just sayin… Fan of the Year award winner Ashley will sing to him in a public place tonight. Cory loves stuff like that.


Big THANKS to my cousin Susan for joining team I’m just sayin… and walking with me, The Wife and The Kids in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. She was also able to raise money for the cause (though Aunt Yvonne donated to me… not her. Just sayin…). Here are some pictures from this past Saturday. Oh… I know I still owe you a story about Ethan’s birth. Maybe I’ll have time to get to that later this week. I also have some pics (not of the birth, but from that weekend).

Team I'm just sayin...

Me and Susan... To prove to Aunt Yvonne that her favorite and her daughter can get along.

Three of my little walkers


It was too big of an area to really get a good picture of just how big the crowd was.  There were a LOT of people there.




Daniel made it a little over halfway

A view from the start/finish line

Daniel had to catch a ride with Susan, because...

Susie needed a ride

Susan had to leave after the walk, so the rest of us went to get some ice cream

Happy Daniel with his mommy

The look on his face after I walked up, saw that he spilled ice cream on his lap, and quoted a line from Smokey and the Bandit (if you don't know it, watch the movie and see if you can figure it out)

Sunday, September 20, 2015

Battle Hymn of the Republic

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant James B. Thompson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 3, 1863, at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. His citation reads:

Capture of flag of 15th Georgia Infantry (C.S.A.).

Surgeon James Harry Thompson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 14, 1862, at New Bern, North Carolina. His citation reads:

Voluntarily reconnoitered the enemy's position and carried orders under the hottest fire.

Corporal John Thompson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 6, 1865, at Hatchers Run, Vriginia. His citation reads:

As color bearer with most conspicuous gallantry preceded his regiment in the assault and planted his flag upon the enemy's works.


The walk has happened, but you can still donate!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Help Team I’m just sayin… in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s

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The I’m just sayin… Hymn of the Week

The Battle Hymn of the Republic


This is a great song that, sadly, is usually only used around the 4th of July. The lyrics were written by Julia Ward Howe and put to the music of John Brown’s Body. You can read a lot more about it here. There are a good many versions of this song on YouTube… for my money, I like to listen to up-tempo versions of it.


Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord;
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored;
He hath loosed the fateful lightning of His terrible swift sword:
His truth is marching on.

Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
His truth is marching on.


I have seen Him in the watch-fires of a hundred circling camps,
They have builded Him an altar in the evening dews and damps;
I can read His righteous sentence by the dim and flaring lamps:
His day is marching on.

Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
His day is marching on.


I have read a fiery gospel writ in burnished rows of steel:
"As ye deal with my contemners, so with you my grace shall deal";
Let the Hero, born of woman, crush the serpent with his heel,
Since God is marching on.

Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Since God is marching on.


He has sounded forth the trumpet that shall never call retreat;
He is sifting out the hearts of men before His judgment-seat;
Oh, be swift, my soul, to answer Him! Be jubilant, my feet!
Our God is marching on.

Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Our God is marching on.


In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,
With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me.
As He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free,
While God is marching on.

Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
While God is marching on.

Thursday, September 17, 2015

HAPPY 6th ANNIVERSARY I’m just sayin…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Henry A. Thompson (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 15, 1865, on board the U.S.S. Minnesota. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Minnesota in the assault on Fort Fisher, 15 January 1865. Landing on the beach with the assaulting party from his ship, Private Thompson advanced partly through a breach in the palisades and nearer to the fort than any man from his ship despite enemy fire which killed or wounded many officers and men. When more than two_thirds of the men became seized with panic and retreated on the run, he remained with the party until dark, when it came safely away, bringing its wounded, its arms and its colors.

Seaman Henry Thompson (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 27, 1878, at Mare Island, California. His citation reads:

For rescuing a man from drowning at Mare Island, Calif., 27 June 1878.

Private James Thompson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 1, 1865, at White Oak Road, Virginia. His citation reads:

Made a hazardous reconnaissance through timber and slashings, preceding the Union line of battle, signaling the troops and leading them through the obstructions.


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Before we get to the anniversary celebration, I’d like to point out that my team hasn’t reached its goal yet. The walk is this Saturday… so you still have time to be part of the solution and not part of the problem. Thanks!


CONGRATS to Jeremy and Rebecca on the birth of their little baby (let’s call him “Greg”… even if they named him “Ethan”). His pic is on Facebook, so I don’t mind sharing one here…



There is a story about his birth that I will try to share with you tomorrow… but for now let’s get to our anniversary stuff.


We at I’m just sayin… would like to wish all of our readers a very Happy 6th Anniversary! We have had another great year and we look forward to having an even better 7th year.

I would like to point out again that we’ve managed to hang on to our Medal of Honor segment, keeping it the longest running segment on any blog that I read. Now let’s look at some stats for the blog.


First Post Ever

1st Post – September 17, 2009
Patrick Swayze, President Obama, & the media

First Post of the Past Season

September 18, 2014
So… about Daniel playing soccer

Total Number of Posts

1,197

Total Post of the Past Season

155

Longest Streak

264

Longest Streak of the Past Season

32

Most Viewed Posts (Top 5) – All-Time

1. Is it Tuesday already? (825)

2. HAPPY 900TH POST!!!!! (791)

3. Halfway to the Weekend (605)

4. HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALLISON!!!!! (171)

5. Sleeping Daniel (146)

Top 10 Pageviews By Country

United States (43,313)

Russia (6,210)

Germany (2,918)

United Kingdom (2,269)

France (1,521)

Argentina (1,304)

Ukraine (1,056)

Spain (747)

China (565)

Denmark (517)

Top 5 Pageviews By Browsers

FireFox (26,057 - 35%)

Internet Explorer (21,536 - 29%)

Safari (10,590 - 14%)

Chrome (8,698 - 11%)

Opera (3,591 - 4%)

Top 2 Operating System

Windows (50,224 - 68%)

iPhone (6,007 - 8%)

My Top 5 Favorite Segments (All-Time)

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients

Picture Tuesday/Thursday

The I’m just sayin… Bible Verse/Proverb of the Week/Gospel Verse

The I’m just sayin… Countdown May

Flashback Friday - (Not currently used)

Top 5 Nicknames on I’m just sayin…

The Wife - My wife

Sonny - My big brother

Teresa Lynn - My big sister… the former Doubting Teri (and No-Name Teri)

Danny (yes, that Danny) – My friend Danny

The Twins - Susie and Daniel


My Top 12 Favorite Posts (All-Time)

An open letter to Trident Medical Center

BREAKING NEWS!!!! A Message from The Wife

Hate what is evil...

HAPPY “4-OMG No-Name Teri is 40” BIRTHDAY No-Name Teri!!!!!!!!

Happy Birthday Jenn!!!!!! (better known for my story of Uncle George's immigration)

Talkin Baseball

My Funeral....Let’s set a record!

The Empire…err…Hospital Strikes Back

Reactions....

Story Time

Now it is official

I will now solve all racial problems!!!!! (You’re welcome)…

I am not sure what my countdown will be next May. It might be time to update some of my past countdowns. I might take suggestions (though I might not use them). We’ll have to wait and see. Until then, don’t forget to donate to my Walk to End Alzheimer’s!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sunday, September 13, 2015

There's Within My Heart a Melody

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Charles A. Thompson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 12, 1864, at Spotsylvania, Virginia. His citation reads:

After the regiment was surrounded and all resistance seemed useless, fought single-handed for the colors and refused to give them up until he had appealed to his superior officers.

Corporal Freeman C. Thompson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 2, 1865, at Petersburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

Was twice knocked from the parapet of Fort Gregg by blows from the enemy muskets but at the third attempt fought his way into the works.

Private George W. Thompson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 17, 1870, at Little Blue, Nebraska. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.


Help Team I’m just sayin… in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s

To donate to me: Click Here.

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The I’m just sayin… Hymn of the Week

There’s Within My Heart a Melody


This hymn, also known as He Keeps Me Singing, was written Luther B. Bridgers around 1910. If you gave me the title, I’d tell you I don’t know the song. If you let me hear the refrain, I’d tell you I love the song.


There's within my heart a melody
Jesus whispers sweet and low:
Fear not, I am with thee, peace, be still,
in all of life's ebb and flow.

Refrain:
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus,
sweetest name I know,
fills my every longing,
keeps me singing as I go.

All my life was wrecked by sin and strife,
discord filled my heart with pain;
Jesus swept across the broken strings,
stirred the slumbering chords again.

(Refrain)

Though sometimes he leads through waters deep,
trials fall across the way,
though sometimes the path seems rough and steep,
see his footprints all the way.

(Refrain)

Feasting on the riches of his grace,
resting neath his sheltering wing,
always looking on his smiling face,
that is why I shout and sing.

(Refrain)

Soon he's coming back to welcome me
far beyond the starry sky;
I shall wing my flight to worlds unknown;
I shall reign with him on high.

(Refrain)

Friday, September 11, 2015

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANSLEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Corporal George W. Thompkins (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 25, 1865, at Petersburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag of 49th Alabama Infantry (C.S.A.) from an officer who, with colors in hand, was rallying his men.

Private William H. Thompkins (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 30, 1898, at Tayabacoa, Cuba. His citation reads:

Voluntarily went ashore in the face of the enemy and aided in the rescue of his wounded comrades; this after several previous attempts at rescue had been frustrated.

Private Allen Thompson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 1, 1865, at White Oak Road, Virginia. His citation reads:

Made a hazardous reconnaissance through timber and slashings preceding the Union line of battle, signaling the troops and leading them through the obstruction.


Help Team I’m just sayin… in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s

To donate to me: Click Here.

To join team I’m just sayin…: Click Here.


HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANSLEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WE LOVE YOU VERY MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Susie has a picture of Ansley in her room that she kisses goodnight every night. True story. Ansley is her favorite… and she doesn’t mind telling you (sometimes even if you don’t ask).

By the way... Don't forget to donate to my Walk to End Alzheimer's.  Thank you.


***********************


I’ve posted this in the past on September 11ths… I will post it again today because my memory of the day has not changed. So, let’s take a walk down memory lane…


Today marks the anniversary of the day the terrorists attacked the USA. I would think the History Channel will be focused on this event as it has been in previous years (after all, it is the History Channel). I remember it like it just happened. I was about a month into my second senior year at Winthrop University, living in an apartment at Mallard Point with Jeremy and Thomas. I got up and headed to my Tuesday morning class, just like always. Back then, I would usually listen to John Boy & Billy on the radio as I headed to class but on this day I was listening to a Bon Jovi CD (on one of those portable CD players that you had to connect to the car via a cassette tape that had a wire running from it to the CD player). I got to my class (a Business Writing class) and sat down. A couple minutes later a guy in our class walks in and says that he heard that two planes collided in New York City around the World Trade Center. It seemed, at the time, like it was two small planes... and while it was sad to hear, it wasn’t earth shattering news. After class I was walking out to meet/hangout with The Girlfriend. I had a break between my first class and my afternoon class (with The Girlfriend) so I liked to have lunch with her on those days. Rumors were starting to pick up about what was going on, so we headed back to her place for lunch (which I don’t think we ever ate that day) and to watch the news. We sat and watched as smoke poured out of the windows of the towers. By then, I believe, one of the towers had already fallen. As we were watching the news live, the second tower came down. At first, I thought maybe they were showing a replay of the first one... but then I realized it was the second one. I must admit to being a bit naïve that day because I was thinking at the time well surely everyone had evacuated from the building by then. Have you ever tried walking down 80 flights of stairs (or even 30 flights, for that matter)? Me either. It did hit, pretty quick, that even if everyone else had gotten out... there were still all the firefighters/policemen/EMS people who had been running in. I remember we sat there kind of stunned just watching TV. I remember having this numb feeling for a while (days/weeks?) after that and just wanting to sit and watch the news. We finally had to get up and go to our afternoon class because Winthrop (at least back then) wouldn’t cancel a class for anything. I remember just going through the motions in my afternoon classes... waiting for a chance to get back in front of the TV to watch the news. Back then I was working as a Manager Trainee at Rack Room Shoes in Carolina Place Mall (in Pineville, NC). I was scheduled to work that night, but I got a call from Peggy (my boss) telling me not to worry about coming in. She said she was pretty sure they were going to close the mall early, but even if they didn’t, nobody was there. Because of my class schedule, I worked almost every night and most of the time on the weekends... so this gave me a rare night off to spend with The Girlfriend. We went to Ryan’s for dinner. Her dad called me on my cell phone because he hadn’t been able to reach her. I remember this was perhaps the longest period of time in my life when I just didn’t feel like laughing. I remember walking around campus and noticing how quiet it was. Winthrop is close enough to Charlotte that there are almost always planes in the sky... but not that day. Even the roads were light... it seemed everyone was staying home watching TV. I think the mall was closed for a couple of days (though I could be mistaken). I do remember going back to work and the place being like a ghost town for the first week or two. I mean, there was NOBODY in the mall. NOBODY. Nobody shopping. Nobody “just looking”. Nobody out walking around. Even the shoplifters were staying home. It was very strange. I remember me, Peggy, and Maureen (my friend from Long Island who was a part-time worker at our store, who has since passed away) would just stand there and talk. Every now and then we’d walk around the store and clean/straighten up... but with no customers there wasn’t much to clean. I do remember standing in the back corner of the store straightening up some shoe boxes when I heard “Leaving on a Jet Plane” (Leaving on a jet plane, don’t know when I’ll be back again) being played and thinking, “Hmmm.... I don’t think this is the best time to be playing a song like this”. As time went on, things started to get back to “normal”. We had work and classes and The Girlfriend was busy planning “our” wedding. Before long sports picked back up and the little things that we learned weren’t really all that important started to become important again. Before you know it, 1... 2... 11 years have gone by and here we are. Since then, I’ve lost two grandmothers (well, I didn’t really “lose” them... they died... I know where they are) and gained two daughters and a son. I’m sure this event hit some people harder than it did me. Some for obvious reasons, some maybe not. Make sure you checkout the History Channel off and on today in between football games. The programming they have on 9/11 is just incredible. Some of the programs have “home video” type footage that really gives a great perspective on how things were that day. Some of it is hard to watch. Most of it will probably bring tears to your eyes (it did mine), but all of it is worth watching.

Sunday, September 6, 2015

Were You There

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Colonel Stephen Thomas (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 19, 1864, at Cedar Creek, Virginia. His citation reads:

Distinguished conduct in a desperate hand_to_hand encounter, in which the advance of the enemy was checked.

Private First Class William H. Thomas (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 22, 1945, at Zambales Mountains Luzon, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

He was a member of the leading squad of Company B, which was attacking along a narrow, wooded ridge. The enemy strongly entrenched in camouflaged emplacements on the hill beyond directed heavy fire and hurled explosive charges on the attacking riflemen. Pfc. Thomas, an automatic rifleman, was struck by 1 of these charges, which blew off both his legs below the knees. He refused medical aid and evacuation, and continued to fire at the enemy until his weapon was put out of action by an enemy bullet. Still refusing aid, he threw his last 2 grenades. He destroyed 3 of the enemy after suffering the wounds from which he died later that day. The effective fire of Pfc. Thomas prevented the repulse of his platoon and assured the capture of the hostile position. His magnificent courage and heroic devotion to duty provided a lasting inspiration for his comrades.

Sergeant Clyde Thomason (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 17-18, 1942, on the island of Makin. His citation reads:

For conspicuous heroism and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty during the Marine Raider Expedition against the Japanese-held island of Makin on 17-18 August 1942. Leading the advance element of the assault echelon, Sgt. Thomason disposed his men with keen judgment and discrimination and, by his exemplary leadership and great personal valor, exhorted them to like fearless efforts. On 1 occasion, he dauntlessly walked up to a house which concealed an enemy Japanese sniper, forced in the door and shot the man before he could resist. Later in the action, while leading an assault on an enemy position, he gallantly gave his life in the service of his country. His courage and loyal devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.


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The I’m just sayin… Hymn of the Week

Were You There


This hymn was most likely composed by African-American slaves in the 1800’s. For my money, I think Johnny Cash has the best version of this song. Read more about this song here.


Were you there when they crucified my Lord? (Were you there?)
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?

Were you there when they nailed him to the cross? (Were you there?)
Were you there when they nailed him to the cross?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
Were you there when they nailed him to the cross?

Were you there when they pierced him in the side? (Were you there?)
Were you there when they pierced him in the side?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
Were you there when they pierced him in the side?

Were you there when the sun refused to shine? (Were you there?)
Were you there when the sun refused to shine?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
Were you there when the sun refused to shine?

Friday, September 4, 2015

Another Funny…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Major Hampton S. Thomas (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 5, 1865, at Amelia Springs, Virginia. His citation reads:

Conspicuous gallantry in the capture of a field battery and a number of battle flags and in the destruction of the enemy's wagon train. Maj. Thomas lost a leg in this action.

Sergeant Herbert Joseph Thomas (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 7, 1943, at the Koromokina River, Bougainville Islands, Solomon Islands. His citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism and conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the battle at the Koromokina River, Bougainville Islands, Solomon Islands, on 7 November 1943. Although several of his men were struck by enemy bullets as he led his squad through dense jungle undergrowth in the face of severe hostile machinegun fire, Sgt. Thomas and his group fearlessly pressed forward into the center of the Japanese position and destroyed the crews of 2 machineguns by accurate rifle fire and grenades. Discovering a third gun more difficult to approach, he carefully placed his men closely around him in strategic positions from which they were to charge after he had thrown a grenade into the emplacement. When the grenade struck vines and fell back into the midst of the group, Sgt. Thomas deliberately flung himself upon it to smother the explosion, valiantly sacrificing his life for his comrades. Inspired by his selfless action, his men unhesitatingly charged the enemy machinegun and, with fierce determination, killed the crew and several other nearby-defenders. The splendid initiative and extremely heroic conduct of Sgt. Thomas in carrying out his prompt decision with full knowledge of his fate reflect great credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Coxswain Karl Thomas (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 13, 20-22, 1900, in China. His citation reads:

In action with the relief expedition of the Allied forces in China 13, 20, 21, and 22 June 1900. During this period and in the presence of the enemy, Thomas distinguished himself by meritorious conduct.


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It's here!!!!!!!!!!!  We've made it to the greatest weekend of the year!!!!!!!!!!!  I hope all of you have a GREAT Labor Day Weekend!!!  I know I will...


I found this one on Facebook… it made me laugh.


President Barack Obama was in the Oval Office when his telephone rang. "Hello, President Obama” a heavily accented southern voice said. "This is Archie, down here at Joe's Catfish Shack, in Mobile , and I am callin' to tell ya’ll that we are officially declaring war on y'all!"

"Well Archie," Barack replied, "This is indeed important news! How big is your army?"

"Right now," said Archie, after a moments calculation "there is myself, my cousin Harold, my next-door-neighbor Randy, and the whole dart team from Hooters. That makes eight!"

Barack paused. "I must tell you Archie that I have one million men in my army waiting to move on my command."

"Wow," said Archie. "I'll have to call ya back!" Sure enough, the next day, Archie called again. “Mr. Obama, the war is still on! We have managed to acquire some infantry equipment!"

"And what equipment would that be Archie?" Barack asked.

"Well sir, we have two combines, a bulldozer, and Harry’s farm tractor."

President Obama sighed. "I must tell you Archie, that I have 16,000 tanks and 14,000 armored personnel carriers. Also I've increased my army to one and a half million since we last spoke."

"Lord above", said Archie, "I'll be getting back to ya."

Sure enough, Archie called again the next day. “President Obama! I am sorry to have to tell you that we have had to call off this here war."

"I'm sorry to hear that" said Barack. "Why the sudden change of heart?"

Well, sir," said Archie, "we've all sat ourselves down and had a long chat over sweet tea, and come to realize that there's just no way we can feed that many prisoners."


Here are some more pictures I've created with my new app. I promise I won't post every one I make.  At least, I'll try no to...






This is just a picture I wanted to post.  I was about to give The Wife a kiss, when Daniel yelled "Nooooooooo!!!!!" And ran over to get between us.  He then jumped up into The Wife's arms and gave her a hug...

... and a kiss.  That boy sure loves his Mommy.

Tuesday, September 1, 2015

Funny sayings…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Seaman Henry Thielberg (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 14, 1863, on board the U.S.S. Mount Washington. His citation reads:

Serving temporarily on board the U.S.S. Mount Washington during the Nansemond River action, 14 April 1863. After assisting in hauling up and raising the flagstaff, Thielberg volunteered to go up on the pilothouse and observe the movements of the enemy and although 3 shells struck within a few inches of his head, remained at his post until ordered to descend.

Sergeant Charles L. Thomas (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 17, 1865, at Powder River Expedition Dakota Territory. His citation reads:

Carried a message through a country infested with hostile Indians and saved the life of a comrade en route.

Lieutenant Charles L. Thomas (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 14, 1944, near Climbach, France. His citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism in action on 14 December 1944, near Climbach, France. While riding in the lead vehicle of a task force organized to storm and capture the village of Climbach, France, then First Lieutenant Thomas's armored scout car was subjected to intense enemy artillery, self-propelled gun, and small arms fire. Although wounded by the initial burst of hostile fire, Lieutenant Thomas signaled the remainder of the column to halt and, despite the severity of his wounds, assisted the crew of the wrecked car in dismounting. Upon leaving the scant protection which the vehicle afforded, Lieutenant Thomas was again subjected to a hail of enemy fire which inflicted multiple gunshot wounds in his chest, legs, and left arm. Despite the intense pain caused by these wounds, Lieutenant Thomas ordered and directed the dispersion and emplacement of two antitank guns which in a few moments were promptly and effectively returning the enemy fire. Realizing that he could no longer remain in command of the platoon, he signaled to the platoon commander to join him. Lieutenant Thomas then thoroughly oriented him on enemy gun dispositions and the general situation. Only after he was certain that his junior officer was in full control of the situation did he permit himself to be evacuated. First Lieutenant Thomas' outstanding heroism were an inspiration to his men and exemplify the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.


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I don’t remember where I got these from… maybe an email or some website. I just found a file on my computer with these sayings and figured they were too funny to keep to myself. I don’t think I’ve already shared them here, but if I have… well, they are funny enough to share again. So, here they are…


Do not argue with an idiot. He will drag you down to his level and beat you with experience.

The last thing I want to do is hurt you. But it's still on my list.

Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

If I agreed with you, we'd both be wrong.

We never really grow up, we only learn how to act in public.

War does not determine who is right - only who is left.

Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.

Evening news is where they begin with 'Good Evening,' and then proceed to tell you why it isn't.

To steal ideas from one person is plagiarism. To steal from many is research.

A bus station is where a bus stops. A train station is where a train stops. On my desk, I have a work station.

I thought I wanted a career. Turns out I just wanted paychecks.

Whenever I fill out an application, in the part that says, 'In case of emergency, notify:' I put 'DOCTOR.'

I didn't say it was your fault, I said I was blaming you.

Behind every successful man is his woman. Behind the fall of a successful man is usually another woman.

A clear conscience is the sign of a fuzzy memory.

I asked God for a bike, but I know God doesn't work that way. So I stole a bike and asked for forgiveness.

You do not need a parachute to skydive. You only need a parachute to skydive twice.

There's a fine line between cuddling and holding someone down so they can't get away.

I used to be indecisive. Now I'm not so sure.

You're never too old to learn something stupid.

To be sure of hitting the target, shoot first and call whatever you hit the target.

Nostalgia isn't what it used to be.

Change is inevitable, except from a vending machine.

Going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than standing in a garage makes you a car.

A diplomat is someone who tells you to go to hell in such a way that you look forward to the trip.

Hospitality is making your guests feel at home even when you wish they were.

I always take life with a grain of salt, plus a slice of lemon, and a shot of tequila.

"The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese."

I want to die peacefully in my sleep, like my grandfather, not screaming and yelling like the passengers in his car.

How is it that one careless match can start a forest fire, but it takes a whole box to start a campfire?

Some people are like Slinkies ... not really good for anything, but you can't help smiling when you see one tumble down the stairs.

Dolphins are so smart that within a few weeks of captivity, they can train people to stand on the very edge of the pool and throw fish to them.

Why does someone believe you when you say there are four billion stars but checks when you say the paint is wet?

Why do Americans choose from just two people to run for president and 50 for Miss America?

The voices in my head may not be real, but they have some good ideas!

Always borrow money from a pessimist. He won't expect it back.

Some cause happiness wherever they go. Others whenever they go.

Some people hear voices. Some see invisible people. Others have no imagination whatsoever.

A bus is a vehicle that runs twice as fast when you are after it as when you are in it.

If you are supposed to learn from your mistakes, why do some people have more than one child?

A bank is a place that will lend you money, if you can prove that you don't need it.

My psychiatrist told me I was crazy and I said I want a second opinion. He said okay, you're ugly too.

If you are going through hell, keep going.

I sleep 8 hours a day, and at least 10 at night.

The car stopped on a dime, which unfortunately was in a pedestrian's pocket.

Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana.

I've had a perfectly wonderful evening, but this wasn't it.