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, November 30, 2014

Matthew 9:10-13

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Landsman Aaron Sanderson (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 17, 1865, on board the U.S.S. Wyandank. His citation reads:

Served on board the U.S.S. Wyandank during a boat expedition up Mattox Creek, 17 March 1865. Participating with a boat crew in the clearing of Mattox Creek, L/man Anderson carried out his duties courageously in the face of a devastating fire which cut away half the oars, pierced the launch in many places and cut the barrel off a musket being fired at the enemy.

Sergeant Willie Sandlin (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 26, 1918, at Bois-de-Forges, France. His citation reads:

He showed conspicuous gallantry in action by advancing alone directly on a machinegun nest which was holding up the line with its fire. He killed the crew with a grenade and enabled the line to advance. Later in the day he attacked alone and put out of action 2 other machinegun nests, setting a splendid example of bravery and coolness to his men.

First Sergeant William Sands (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 6-7, 1865, at Dabney's Mills, Virginia. His citation reads:

Grasped the enemy's colors in the face of a deadly fire and brought them inside the lines.


The I’m just sayin… Gospel Verse of the Week
Matthew 9:10-13

10 While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with him and his disciples. 11 When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?”

12 On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 13 But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Happy Birthday Allison! And Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Captain Ben L. Salomon (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 7, 1944, at Saipan, in the Marianas Islands. His citation reads:

Captain Ben L. Salomon was serving at Saipan, in the Marianas Islands on July 7, 1944, as the Surgeon for the 2d Battalion, 105th Infantry Regiment, 27th Infantry Division. The Regiment's 1st and 2d Battalions were attacked by an overwhelming force estimated between 3,000 and 5,000 Japanese soldiers. It was one of the largest attacks attempted in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Although both units fought furiously, the enemy soon penetrated the Battalions' combined perimeter and inflicted overwhelming casualties. In the first minutes of the attack, approximately 30 wounded soldiers walked, crawled, or were carried into Captain Salomon's aid station, and the small tent soon filled with wounded men. As the perimeter began to be overrun, it became increasingly difficult for Captain Salomon to work on the wounded. He then saw a Japanese soldier bayoneting one of the wounded soldiers lying near the tent. Firing from a squatting position, Captain Salomon quickly killed the enemy soldier. Then, as he turned his attention back to the wounded, two more Japanese soldiers appeared in the front entrance of the tent. As these enemy soldiers were killed, four more crawled under the tent walls. Rushing them, Captain Salomon kicked the knife out of the hand of one, shot another, and bayoneted a third. Captain Salomon butted the fourth enemy soldier in the stomach and a wounded comrade then shot and killed the enemy soldier. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Captain Salomon ordered the wounded to make their way as best they could back to the regimental aid station, while he attempted to hold off the enemy until they were clear. Captain Salomon then grabbed a rifle from one of the wounded and rushed out of the tent. After four men were killed while manning a machine gun, Captain Salomon took control of it. When his body was later found, 98 dead enemy soldiers were piled in front of his position. Captain Salomon's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

Corporal Samuel M. Sampler (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 8, 1918, near St. Etienne, France. His citation reads:

His company having suffered severe casualties during an advance under machinegun fire, was finally stopped. Cpl. Sampler detected the position of the enemy machineguns on an elevation. Armed with German handgrenades, which he had picked up, he left the line and rushed forward in the face of heavy fire until he was near the hostile nest, where he grenaded the position. His third grenade landed among the enemy, killing 2, silencing the machineguns, and causing the surrender of 28 Germans, whom he sent to the rear as prisoners. As a result of his act the company was immediately enabled to resume the advance.

Private Charles F. Sancrainte (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 22, 1864, at Atlanta, Georgia. His citation reads:

Voluntarily scaled the enemy's breastworks and signaled to his commanding officer in charge; also in single combat captured the colors of the 5th Texas Regiment (C.S.A.).


HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALLISON!!!!!!!! We love you very much and we hope you have a GREAT day!

Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours… or at least from me to you. Today, we’re going to share a few videos in our picture section. Enjoy!


Picture Thursday








Sunday, November 23, 2014

Mark 1:35

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant John C. Sagelhurst (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 6, 1865, at Hatchers Run, Virginia. His citation reads:

Under a heavy fire from the enemy carried off the field a commissioned officer who was severely wounded and also led a charge on the enemy's rifle pits.

Private George T. Sakato (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 29, 1944, at Hill 617 Biffontaine, France. His citation reads:

Private George T. Sakato distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action on 29 October 1944, on hill 617 in the vicinity of Biffontaine, France. After his platoon had virtually destroyed two enemy defense lines, during which he personally killed five enemy soldiers and captured four, his unit was pinned down by heavy enemy fire. Disregarding the enemy fire, Private Sakato made a one-man rush that encouraged his platoon to charge and destroy the enemy strongpoint. While his platoon was reorganizing, he proved to be the inspiration of his squad in halting a counter-attack on the left flank during which his squad leader was killed. Taking charge of the squad, he continued his relentless tactics, using an enemy rifle and P-38 pistol to stop an organized enemy attack. During this entire action, he killed 12 and wounded two, personally captured four and assisted his platoon in taking 34 prisoners. By continuously ignoring enemy fire, and by his gallant courage and fighting spirit, he turned impending defeat into victory and helped his platoon complete its mission. Private Sakato's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the United States Army.

Private Albert Sale (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 29, 1889, at Santa Maria River, Arizona. His citation reads:

Gallantry in killing an Indian warrior and capturing pony and effects.


The I’m just sayin… Gospel Verse of the Week
Mark 1:35

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.

Friday, November 21, 2014

HAPPY BIRTHDAY J MIKEY-G!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Captain of the Top William Sadler (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 25, 1881, on board the U.S.S. Saratoga. His citation reads:

For jumping overboard from the U.S.S. Saratoga, off Coasters Harbor Island, R.I., 25 June 1881, and sustaining until picked up by a boat from the ship, Frank Gallagher, second class boy, who had fallen overboard.

Sergeant Joseph J. Sadowski (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 14, 1944, at Valhey, France. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty at Valhey, France. On the afternoon of 14 September 1944, Sgt. Sadowski as a tank commander was advancing with the leading elements of Combat Command A, 4th Armored Division, through an intensely severe barrage of enemy fire from the streets and buildings of the town of Valhey. As Sgt. Sadowski's tank advanced through the hail of fire, it was struck by a shell from an 88-mm. gun fired at a range of 20 yards. The tank was disabled and burst into flames. The suddenness of the enemy attack caused confusion and hesitation among the crews of the remaining tanks of our forces. Sgt. Sadowski immediately ordered his crew to dismount and take cover in the adjoining buildings. After his crew had dismounted, Sgt. Sadowski discovered that 1 member of the crew, the bow gunner, had been unable to leave the tank. Although the tank was being subjected to a withering hail of enemy small-arms, bazooka, grenade, and mortar fire from the streets and from the windows of adjacent buildings, Sgt. Sadowski unhesitatingly returned to his tank and endeavored to pry up the bow gunner's hatch. While engaged in this attempt to rescue his comrade from the burning tank, he was cut down by a stream of machinegun fire which resulted in his death. The gallant and noble sacrifice of his life in the aid of his comrade, undertaken in the face of almost certain death, so inspired the remainder of the tank crews that they pressed forward with great ferocity and completely destroyed the enemy forces in this town without further loss to themselves. The heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Sgt. Sadowski, which resulted in his death, inspired the remainder of his force to press forward to victory, and reflect the highest tradition of the armed forces.

Captain William H. Sage (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 13, 1899, near Zapote River, Luzon, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

With 9 men volunteered to hold an advanced position and held it against a terrific fire of the enemy estimated at 1,000 strong. Taking a rifle from a wounded man, and cartridges from the belts of others, Capt. Sage himself killed 5 of the enemy.


I just wanted to swing by the I’m just sayin… offices today to wish my good friend and favorite high level executive banker J. Michael G. (J Mikey-G to all of his friends… at least after they read it here) a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!! We hope he has a GREAT day!

Thursday, November 20, 2014

Meet Spike the Turtle

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Ensign Thomas John Ryan (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 1, 1923, at Yokohama, Japan. His citation reads:

For heroism in effecting the rescue of a woman from the burning Grand Hotel, Yokohama, Japan, on 1 September 1923. Following the earthquake and fire which occurred in Yokohama on 1 September, Ens. Ryan, with complete disregard for his own life, extricated a woman from the Grand Hotel, thus saving her life. His heroic conduct upon this occasion reflects the greatest credit on himself and on the U.S. Navy, of which he is a part. (Medal presented by President Coolidge at the White House on 15 March 1924.)

Specialist Fourth Class Leslie H. Sabo, Jr. (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 10, 1970, at Se San, Cambodia. His citation reads:

Specialist Four Leslie H. Sabo Jr. distinguished himself by conspicuous acts of gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty at the cost of his own life while serving as a rifleman in Company B, 3d Battalion, 506th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division in Se San, Cambodia, on May 10, 1970. On that day, Specialist Four Sabo and his platoon were conducting a reconnaissance patrol when they were ambushed from all sides by a large enemy force. Without hesitation, Specialist Four Sabo charged an enemy position, killing several enemy soldiers. Immediately thereafter, he assaulted an enemy flanking force, successfully drawing their fire away from friendly soldiers and ultimately forcing the enemy to retreat. In order to re-supply ammunition, he sprinted across an open field to a wounded comrade. As he began to reload, an enemy grenade landed nearby. Specialist Four Sabo picked it up, threw it, and shielded his comrade with his own body, thus absorbing the brunt of the blast and saving his comrade's life. Seriously wounded by the blast, Specialist Four Sabo nonetheless retained the initiative and then single-handedly charged an enemy bunker that had inflicted severe damage on the platoon, receiving several serious wounds from automatic weapons fire in the process. Now mortally injured, he crawled towards the enemy emplacement and, when in position, threw a grenade into the bunker. The resulting explosion silenced the enemy fire, but also ended Specialist Four Sabo's life. His indomitable courage and complete disregard for his own safety saved the lives of many of his platoon members. Specialist Four Sabo's extraordinary heroism and selflessness, above and beyond the call of duty, at the cost of his life, are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, Company B, 3d Battalion, 506th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

First Lieutenant Louis J. Sacriste (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 3, 1863, at Chancellorsville, Virginia AND October 14, 1863, at Auburn, Virginia. His citation reads:

Saved from capture a gun of the 5th Maine Battery. Voluntarily carried orders which resulted in saving from destruction or capture the picket line of the 1st Division, 2d Army Corps.


Daniel has been wanting a turtle for over a year now. I was against getting one, but when I found out that our friends were looking to give theirs away (along with the tank and all of the supplies they had), I figured it was a sign we should get him for Daniel (I figured it was a sign, because The Wife told me it was…). I admit that I wasn’t really a big fan of getting a turtle, but I’m glad we got him. I can say without a doubt, this is the most active turtle I’ve ever seen. Here are some videos and pictures to introduce the new member of our family… Spike.








Picture Thursday













I think Spike might be Lucy's long lost twin brother (see pic below)...


Sunday, November 16, 2014

Luke 5:8-11

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Coxswain Francis T. Ryan (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 during the battles of 13, 20, 21 and 22 June 1900. Throughout this period and in the presence of the enemy, Ryan distinguished himself by meritorious conduct.

Private Peter J. Ryan (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 19, 1864, at Winchester, Virginia. His citation reads:

With one companion, captured 14 Confederates in the severest part of the battle.

Ordinary Seaman Richard Ryan (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 4, 1876, on board the U.S.S. Hartford. His citation reads:

Serving on board the U.S.S. Hartford, Ryan displayed gallant conduct in jumping overboard at Norfolk, Va., and rescuing from drowning one of the crew of that vessel, 4 March 1876.


The I’m just sayin… Gospel Verse of the Week
Luke 5:8-11

8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” 9 For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, 10 and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s partners.

Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.” 11 So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.

Thursday, November 13, 2014

Pictures and Videos

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant James M. Rutter (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions during the Civil War. His citation reads:

At great risk of his life went to the assistance of a wounded comrade, and while under fire removed him to a place of safety.

Private David Ryan (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from October 21, 1876 to January 8, 1877, at Cedar Cree, etc., Montana. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.

First Sergeant Dennis Ryan (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 2, 1874, at Gageby Creek, Indian Territory. His citation reads:

Courage while in command of a detachment.








Picture Thursday




We all need somebody to lean on...

I spent some time with the Mudville 9... Here's me and the Mighty Casey.





Notice the sign above Susie...



Sunday, November 9, 2014

John 5:8-9

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Jacob Sanford (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 22, 1863, at Vicksburg, Mississippi. His citation reads:

Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."

Specialist Fourth Class Hector Santiago-Colon (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 28, 1968, at Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sp4c. Santiago-Colon distinguished himself at the cost of his life while serving as a gunner in the mortar platoon of Company B. While serving as a perimeter sentry he detected movement in the heavily wooded area to his front and flanks. Immediately he alerted his fellow sentries in the area to move to their foxholes and remain alert for any enemy probing forces. From the wooded area around his position heavy enemy automatic weapons and small-arms fire suddenly broke out, but extreme darkness rendered difficult the precise location and identification of the enemy. Soon the muzzle flashes from enemy weapons indicated their position. Sp4c. Santiago-Colon and the other members of his position immediately began to repel the attackers, utilizing hand grenades, antipersonnel mines and small-arms fire. Due to the heavy volume of enemy fire and exploding grenades around them, a North Vietnamese soldier was able to crawl, undetected, to their position. Suddenly, the enemy soldier lobbed a hand grenade into Sp4c. Santiago-Colon's foxhole. Realizing that there was no time to throw the grenade out of his position, Sp4c. Santiago-Colon retrieved the grenade, tucked it in to his stomach and, turning away from his comrades, absorbed the full impact of the blast. His heroic self-sacrifice saved the lives of those who occupied the foxhole with him, and provided them with the inspiration to continue fighting until they had forced the enemy to retreat from the perimeter. By his gallantry at the cost of his life and in the highest traditions of the military service, Sp4c. Santiago-Colon has reflected great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

Seaman Isacc Sapp (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 15, 1871, on board the U.S.S. Shenandoah. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Shenandoah during the rescue of a shipmate at Villefranche, 15 December 1871. Jumping overboard, Sapp gallantly assisted in saving Charles Prince, seaman, from drowning.


The I’m just sayin… Gospel Verse of the Week
John 5:8-9

Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” 9 At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked.

Friday, November 7, 2014

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEIGH-ANN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Seaman John Russell (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 21, 1880, at Genoa, Italy. His citation reads:

For jumping overboard from the U.S.S. Trenton, at Genoa, Italy, 21 September 1880, and rescuing from drowning Hans Paulsen, ordinary seaman.

Captain Milton Russell (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 29, 1862, at Stone River, Tennessee. His citation reads:

Was the first man to cross Stone River and, in the face of a galling fire from the concealed skirmishers of the enemy, led his men up the hillside, driving the opposing skirmishers before them.

First Lieutenant John T. Rutherford (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 11, 1864 at Yellow Tavern, Virginia AND on May 27, 1864 at Hanovertown, Virginia. His citation reads:

Made a successful charge at Yellow Tavern, Va., 11 May 1864, by which 90 prisoners were captured. On 27 May 1864, in a gallant dash on a superior force of the enemy and in a personal encounter, captured his opponent.


I just wanted to swing by the I’m just sayin… offices today to wish my good friend Leigh-Ann a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!! We hope KC and the kids make it a great one!

Thursday, November 6, 2014

Disney videos and pictures!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:


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

Capture of flag of 42d Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.).

Landsman Henry P. Russell (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 11, 1898, on board the U.S.S. Marblehead. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Marblehead during the operation of cutting the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba, 11 May 1898. Facing the heavy fire of the enemy, Russell displayed extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action.

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

Gallantry in action with Indians.


Before we get to everything, let me point out that the Washington Wizards will win the NBA this year.

Mary Ruth & Daniel went with me to vote. MR watched me vote & noticed that I voted for Jeremy. Our honest to goodness post-vote conversation went like this:

MR: Did you vote for Uncle Jeremy?

Me: Yep. Daddy has voted for Uncle Jeremy in every election since I've known him.

MR: Why?

Me: Because Daddy's smart.

MR: Huh?

Me: Because I think he would do a good job.

MR: Will he win?

Me: Nope.

MR: How do you know?

Me: Because not everyone is smart enough to vote for him like I did... It probably didn't help that he wasn't actually running for the position.

MR: Why didn't Uncle Jeremy run for office?

Me: He's too honest.

MR: But aren't all the people running for office honest?

Me: You're a sweet girl...

Here are a few videos from our trip to Disney World.  Sorry the quality isn't that great... but it's the best I could do.  Enjoy!
















Picture Thursday



A couple of Halloween pics before we get to the Disney pics.  Here we have my dolphin trainer, Elsa, and a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle. 




On our way to Disney World!!!!!!!

We took a break to play checkers... I was the black, Mary Ruth was the red.


Waiting in line for a ride at Disney

They told us they didn't need a nap...

Seeing Mickey Mouse at breakfast

We are in the back two rows... The Wife and Mary Ruth are together with me, Daniel and Susie behind them.  I knew a picture was being taken, so I did my best to look like I was having fun.  Really, I hated it.  My eyes were shut as tight as possible and I would have rather been anywhere in the world other than there.  Lucky for me, Susie hated it just as much as me, so I didn't have to ride anymore rides after this one.

Sunday, November 2, 2014

Luke 9:4-5

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Charles W. Rundle (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 22, 1863, at Vicksburg, Mississippi. His citation reads:

Gallantry in the charge of the “volunteer storming party.”

First Class Fireman John Rush (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 14, 1863, on board the U.S.S. Richmond. His citation reads:

Serving on board the U.S.S. Richmond in the attack on Port Hudson, 14 March 1863. Damaged by a 6_inch solid rifle shot which shattered the starboard safety_valve chamber and also damaged the port safety valve, the fireroom of the Richmond immediately became filled with steam to place it in an extremely critical condition. Acting courageously in this crisis, Rush persisted in penetrating the steam_filled room in order to haul the hot fires of the furnaces, and continued this action until the gravity of the situation had been lessened.

Captain William Rees Rush (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 21-22, 1914, during engagements of Vera Cruz. His citation reads:

For distinguished conduct in battle, engagements of Vera Cruz, 21 and 22 April 1914. In command of the naval brigade, Capt. Rush was in both days' fighting and almost continually under fire from soon after landing, about noon on the 21st, until we were in possession of the city, about noon of the 22d. His duties required him to be at points of great danger in directing his officers and men, and he exhibited conspicuous courage, coolness and skill in his conduct of the fighting. Upon his courage and skill depended in great measure success or failure. His responsibilities were great, and he met them in a manner worthy of commendation.


The I’m just sayin… Gospel Verse of the Week
Luke 9:4-5

4 Whatever house you enter, stay there until you leave that town. 5 If people do not welcome you, leave their town and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.”