Adventures in Melrose

After two weeks of work travel, I needed some downtime. In a big way. It worked out that my last work trip was to Jacksonville, FL. I was able to work it such that I could stay in the Sunshine State for a few more days, and pay a long overdue visit to Deb & Jack.After being up each morning, I had no trouble catching the sunrise on Friday morning. The rest of the week, I missed it.Sheryl's kayak was sitting there, begging for a swim, so on Saturday I named myself Captain and off I went. There were many more motorized watercraft on the lake, but my vessel allowed me to get some exercise and even stalk wildlife.

Memorial Day

Recently, on a trip to DC, I took time to visit Arlington National Cemetery. I have not been since I was an elementary school student and it was overwhelming to visualize and imagine the service and sacrifice that these men and women have offered to our country. I was, am, and will forever be grateful to them. I was also struck by the empty fields, as that served as a reminder of all the of the servicemen and women fighting today who may be laid to rest here. Did I mention this was an emotionally overwhelming experience?

It's a Hard Knock Life

Jacksonville is not on the beach, but is a 20 min drive. I am getting weary of travel, but I must admit that it is easier when this is the setting. So much better than DC!
Did some recon on the enemy Jaguars. Not impressed.
Life is good.

Wonders Never Cease

Not that I doubted she would graduate, but I can't believe she has grown up so quickly. Congratulations, Xandi! Upward and onward.

Play Ball!!

I managed to be in town for Donovan's last baseball game of the regular season. He is hitting much better this year, and playing hind catcher. The kids are taller and more coordinated, but they are still learning a lot. It was great to spend an afternoon at the ballpark.

They Show Well

Two students that have worked with us for a few years made their first conference presentation last week at Arkansas State University, and they won first and second in the student judging! They outcompeted masters and doctoral students. Way to go, Nick and Mindi!

The Big Easy is a Little Stressed

Water levels are rising, crest not expected until 23 May. They are planning to open two spillways that are rarely used, and when you live below sea level, you worry about excess water. Folks in the Big Easy are usually pretty laid back, but when I visited recently, you could feel some tension. Drinking helps. I stayed at the International House, and others came over for fancy drinks in the lobby bar, Loa. Yum.

Brew Baby Brew

With warm weather upon us (the yeast don't like it hot), I have had to get serious about getting some kits brewed before the oppressive summer heat arrives. As part of that, I cleared out a section of my garage, with hopes of limiting the uninvited guests (wild yeast, bacteria, leaves, pollen) to the process.

Father of Waters

Vicksburg is sinking, and I don't want to swim. Periodic pictoral updates will be provided, when I am actually around.

Flood fighting measures

Water is high and on the rise here along the Mississippi River. On an unofficial data collection trip to Memphis this weekend, flood levels were observed there as well, compare to the images on this website for reference. Music Festival was in Tom Lee Park, right on the river. BBQ competition has been moved to the University to avoid flooding complications.

A not smart man was spotting doing some stand-up paddling.
Men on the streets were resisting fashion norms in hopes of avoiding mud and water on their delicate denim.