Confirmation

This was a unique year for us, spiritually speaking that is.  You see, it just so happens that we have both a 10th grader (#2 of 5) and a 2nd Grader (#5 of 5).  In our faith second graders partake in the Sacrament of First Communion (more on that later) and 10th graders partake in the Sacrament of Confirmation. 

When this year’s sacramental schedule came out, we quickly discovered a very unique circumstance.  #2 of 5’s Confirmation was going to be held on April 21st, and #5 of 5’s First Communion was going to be held on April 22nd…  Yup!  Back to back!

This was a win in my eyes…  See, this way we only had to clean the house prepare for a major celebration ONCE!!  (Well, it would require a small amount of “touch up” between each event, but not a THUROUGH cleaning like we would have to do if they were months apart.)

The other up-side to having back to back events is that it makes it easier for people who have to travel to justify the trip.  It’s a “two-fer”…  Two sacramental celebrations for the price of one! 

Throughout the past year, #2 of 5 has been preparing for the Sacrament of Confirmation.  In its most simplest terms, the candidate selects a Sponsor and together they affirm (or confirm) and strengthen the baptismal vows that were made by the candidate’s parents when they were baptized into the church as an infant.

The Church has some specific criteria that is needed to fulfill the roll of Confirmation Sponsor, and to be quite honest, we were quite interested to see who #2 of 5 would choose for his candidate.  We did not interfere, or direct him in any way.

When the time came to choose a sponsor, #2 of 5 came to us with an idea.  Not only did he have an idea, but he has some very specific reasoning for that idea.  #2 of 5 chose my sister’s husband (my brother in law).   I was quite surprised… Surprised and (to be honest) very proud of his choice! 

There was one small snag.  Uncle A lives over one thousand miles away.  We talked through this and what it would mean, then we talked to the Spiritual Director for the Confirmation program, explaining his choice and our plan on how to make this work. 

She spoke with our Parish Priest (Fr. Yanta, whom I have blogged about here in the past – we are quite blessed to have him as our Parish Priest!) who gave her (and us) his blessing.  #2 of 5 made the telephone call and asked Uncle A to spend a few days considering the offer. 

A few days later Uncle A called back and told #2 of 5 that he has agreed to accept the roll!  There were a few logistical complications, but we did have a plan for that.  (I would step in, and fulfill the roll of Sponsor for the Candidate / Sponsor events, and then follow up with Uncle A and fill him in with what had gone on.)

This worked out very well.  In fact, throughout the year I think #2 of 5 and Uncle A’s relationship strengthen significantly!  They bonded on several different levels, and #2 of 5 introduced Uncle A into a whole new means of communication…  TEXTING!! 

I often found #2 of 5 texting Uncle A, or Uncle A texting #2 of 5.         

Having talked to each of them about their interactions, I quickly ascertained that they both enjoyed, and learned a little throughout the experience!  I could not be more thankful to Uncle A’s for having been there for #2 of 5!

The day of the Confirmation arrived.  The Sacrament was being held at Divine Mercy Catholic Church in Faribault, Minnesota.  The Sacrament was officiated by the Bishop and assisted by the Priests of the 3-4 Parishes who’s youth were being confirmed. 

After the ceremony, we all returned to the house where we had a Lasagna dinner feast.  (#2 of 5 was allowed to select what dinner would be.)  

Whether or not he realizes it, he made a big impression on his nephew!!  We are very grateful to Uncle A for his commitment to #2 of 5. 

Crazy Uncle

I am far more than just my persona as a Father of Five.  Today (for the sake of this post) I am going to take off my “father” hat, and put my “uncle” hat.  .

This year my sister her husband and their twin sons came home for Easter.

We took advantage of their time here and got our families together several times.  There was the obvious Easter celebration.  In addition to Easter, my parents had us all over for dinner a couple of times.  We also had a wonderful opportunity to celebrate #2 of 5’s Confirmation send-off mass together (more on that later).  But the ABSOLUTE HIGHLIGHT of their trip (for me) was the day that that I spent with my nephews!

It was my day off from work, but the Mother of Five had to work and the rest of our kids were in school – So I decided to give my sister, her husband, and my parents the “day off” and told them that I wanted to spend the day with my nephews.  The Mother of Five and I put our heads together and came up with great plan for our day.

First thing that morning, I broke out MY GPS and began loading up a number of GeoCaches located in the vicinity of our destination.  There are some unique elevation changes in the area, so I wanted to load up the Topographical data for the area.  I had a data transfer failure, so I tried loading it again.  This time I got a “success message” – So I disconnected my GPS and headed out.  

First stop – Pick up the nephews!  I was running a little behind and since lunch was going to be “on the trail” I called ahead and asked my sister to make a couple of sandwiches the boys like to eat.  I picked up the boys (and the sandwiches) and we made our second stop… Cub Foods for some “junk food”.  (What are sandwiches without chips, right?)

We ran to the chip isle and I told them to pick something out.  One of the boys motioned finding something they both like.  Nope, I said… That will NEVER do…  I told them they could each pick out their OWN junk food!  One of them picked Munchies, and the other picked Funyuns.  I picked up a bag of salted in the shell peanuts, and we headed to the check out.  From there, we headed to our third stop – beverages!  (What are sandwiches and chips without soda, right?)         

I decided to head to Super America (a nearby convenience store / gas station).  We ran to the WALL of beverage coolers.  There, I also told the boys to go wild… They looked at me with saucer like eyes… ANYTHING they asked?  I did draw the line at energy drinks, (my sister would have skinned me alive) but I told them anything else was fair game.  They contemplated several flavors of Mountain Dew High Voltage, and various other drinks, and one of the boys even said they could not make up their mind because there were too many choices… (Can you have too many beverage choices??)  Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, they chose Gatorades.  I grabbed a Half & Half.   We checked out and headed to our fourth stop – the Light Rail Station!

 

 

True, I could have driven to our destination in my car, but where is the fun with that when instead, you can RIDE THE RAILS!!  The boys had never been on the light rail, so we headed to the 28^th Ave Park & Ride station and jumped the Hiawatha Line until we reached our fifth and final destination – Minnehaha Park!

 

 

Minnehaha Park is a city park located in Minneapolis.  Minnehaha Creek cuts through the park – and as a centerpiece of the park – the creek plunges over Minnehaha Falls before continuning it’s journey to the Mississippi River. 

We jumped the train and headed into the park where we took advantage of a few photo ops and snapped some pictures.

  

Above left:  The view (from an observatoin bridge) over the edge of the falls.

Above right:  “Double Trouble” – my nephews posing from the same location.

 

Above left:  photo from the opposite end of the plunge pool.  As you can see, the spring drought had the falls performing at a “less than magnificent” rate.

Above Right:  Me with the camera at arms length “trying” to get a photo of the three of us. 

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Another feature in the park is the Bronze statue of Hiawatha and Minnehaha. 

The life-size statue depicts Hiawatha and Minnehaha, who are characters from the epic poem “Song of Hiawatha” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

At the base of the statue the following inscription appears…

Over wide and rushing rivers
In his arms he bore the maiden.

The sculpture (which is located on a small island in the creek, can be viewed from the water’s edge a short way above the falls) was originally on exhibit at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893.  The sculpture was then purchased with pennies donated by school children in Minnesota.

 

Note:  It an also be climbed upon if you are willing to cross the creek and explore the island!

 

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It was time for nourishment.  We decided to eat our picnic of sandwiches junk food and Gatorades in the park.  We located a picnic table and started digging in.  We spent some time visiting and discussing the “flavors” of our favorite colors… We tried to feed the squirrels and a hawk we saw in one of the trees with some Munchies, Funyuns, and peanut shells – but they wanted no part of it.  As lunch died down, it was time to break out the GPS for some GeoCaching.

I turned it on and just as it powered up, the GPS turned itself off.  I did this a number of times, always resulting in the same thing.  Suspecting the batteries, I swapped out the batteries from the camera, and the same thing happened.  Turn on, start up and then just as the GPS switches to the “finding satellites” screen the GPS turns itself off.  Then, it occurred to me  I had the data connection failure when trying to upload the topo maps of the area earlier that morning.

This is not the first time this has happened.  The first time (several years ago) I did an internet search and found many references to this problem.  All the references resulted in the same solution – Send the GPS back with a check for $75.00 for repair.  Then, I stumbled upon an obscure website that someone posted their own “remedy” for the problem.  In a nutshell – You download a copy of the latest firmware, erase the existing (corrupt) firmware, then reinstall the new (uncorrupt) firmware.  The first time I tried it, it took me three hours to figure it all out – but in the end it worked perfectly.  This time it took me about 10 minutes and I had the GPS up and running again.  You lose all your unsaved data (tracks, waypoints, settings, etc) when you do this, but it’s better than a bricked GPS!

Without the GPS to guide us to the GeoCaches – We decided to simply hike the trail from the plunge pool to the mouth of Minnehaha Creek where it meets up with the Mighty Mississippi. 

Until the age of eight our family lived a few miles from Minnehaha Park (and spent a lot of time there).  Despite this fact – I do not recall having ever actually walked that trail.

Once we descended into the area of the plunge pool and reached the base of the falls, we took a few more photos.

The first two photos were attempts at using the self timer.  After seeing us fail miserably, another park-goer offered to take our picture.

Now, it was time for some HIGH ADVENTURE!!  Time to show these boys what fun is all about! 

We crossed the creek (via a bridge) and the (looking both ways for people watching) we ignored the No Trespassing, Caution, and Danger signs and made our way past the fenced area and headed in for a better look! 

Well, not before ONE of the boys stopped me (the other one was already over the fence and making his way towards the falls).  The nephew that stopped me said he didn’t think we should go past the fence, pointing at the signs… 

I commended him for being so observant, and reminded him that he is too young for County Jail – and that I would be the one headed for lockup if we got caught!     

  

Not wanting to press our luck (or face jail time at HCADC) we headed back to LEGAL park exploration area. 

By the way – see that ledge behind the falls – the one that almost looks like a smile?  It is a bit of a legendary “civil disobedience” area – one I have ALWAYS wanted to go see (even as a young child) but as of yet have not.

We noticed a very large carp trapped in the low water of the creek between some rocky areas.  It looked quite dead until the boys decided to toss a few small rocks at it to see if it was still alive.  Sure enough, it was!

We made our down the creek, crossing over and back by bridges, rock hopping, tree climbing, and whatever other means we could find.  There was a lot to see down there!

       

In the left photo, one of my nephews got ahead of me, and then doubled back in the woods above the trail waiting for us to pass.  About the time I started wondering where he went, I heard my name being called from the woods above me… There he was – hiding behind some sort of fenced area.  It’s all good though – I got him back by telling him that he was hiding in the “Bear cage” area, and that if the gate is open like that, it must mean the bear is out on the loose…

He did not believe me…  I must be loosing my touch. 

So, we continued on.  (Hover your mouse over each picture for a “floating” description…)

     

 

We finally made it!  The Mouth of Minnehaha Creek!  The creek has traveled 22 miles through the Twin Cities until reaching the falls, and then downstream – emptying out into the Mississippi River (seen here) as it now starts to make it’s way to the Gulf of Mexico! 

    

Why cross the bridge (and stay dry) when you can rock hop (and fall in soaking one of your shoes)?  Shhh!!  Don’t tell your mom – The shoe will be dry by the time we get home, and she may never trust me with you guys again!!  (wink) 

On the other side of the bridge, the boys located this “cave” carved out of the sandstone.  One of the boys decided to explore the cave while the other was more interested in the sandbar and mouth of the creek.  I let them each have their own version of fun for a bit!

 

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The time came to head back…  One last photo opportunity was when the boys located some really “cool” graffiti under a road bridge. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It was time to hop the train and head back home.  By this time, the boys were tired out, full of junk food and Gatorade (quite proud of the fact that they each finished of a GIANT jug of the stuff). 

 

 

Now experts at riding the train, they decided they wanted to be in the front car and sit in the front seats of the front car.  Originally the front seats were filled, but as soon as they emptied the boys eyed me and I gave them the “wink and nod”. 

Woosh! 

They were up in the front seats of the front car! 

 

 

 

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I am so grateful for having had the chance to spend the day with these two hooligans!  It was so much fun introducing them to things they have not seen or experienced before!  They are both such good sports and willing to try anything their “Crazy Uncle” is willing to let them get into (even if it means a little “civil disobedience and / or breaking a “little” law or two).

Hey guys – I’m already planning our outing for NEXT TIME!!  Hey sister of mine – be sure to bring enough BAIL MONEY for all three of us!!!   BWA-HA-HA-HA-HA-HA!!

A Memorial

The old saying is that a picture is worth a thousand words, right?

This picture represents FAR MORE than a thousand words.

You may see a man feeding a chipmunk. I do too, but I see SO MUCH more.

I see a mentor. I see a friend. I see a husband, father & grandfather. I see an outdoorsman. I see so many scenes from my life played out in my mind that I do not even know where or how to begin.

The photograph above is one of my favorite pictures of Best Bud Ed’s dad, John. In fact, when I think of John, it is this image (or something similar) is what pops into my mind. This photo represents so much of who he was, and what he was about to me.

I have written and re-written this post so many times, I lost count.  

I have struggled over and over and over again to try and come up with post about a man that I held in high regard.  A post that honored a man who lived life as John did.  On his own terms – with the determination of a bull.  A post that treasured so many fond memories…  In the end, I couldn’t.

I realized that I won’t be able to meet my own expectations, that I am not going to find the right combination of words to honor and celebrate his life – nor will I be able to express my gratitude to Best Bud Ed and his family for having shared their husband, father, and grandfather with me as well as I wish I could. 

Instead, I decided to post the photo above.  A photo that is (to me) worth a thousand (or more) words (and fond memories).  I could go on and on about the countless hours I spent at Ed’s place hanging with his dad. The times we spent in his (meticulously kept) garage or shed while he tinkered on an old radio or tuning up a chain saw. I could talk about the memories of the times we spent in the basement while he reloaded shotgun shells or just hanging out in his living room while he “tolerated” us playing cribbage, ordering pizzas, watching movies, and listening to loud teenage music.

This photo takes me back to memories of “Roly Poly Tobacco Tins”, antique firearms, and trips to the cabin.  It floods me with memories of hours spent around the campfire, smokin’ cigars, and drinkin’ Leroux Black.  I can’t help but think about ATV’s, Yours Truly Johnny Dollar, Freshly made Donuts from the Aitkin Bakery, antique collections, cribbage, and Coast to Coast Hardware.

On the 27th of February this year John left us and was welcomed (open armed) into the embrace of our Heavenly Father.

John’s memory and legacy lives on.  He lives in the hearts and minds of his family, and his friends.  I am proud and thankful to be able to say that John was my friend and truly believe his influence has helped make me a better man. 

So John, as you transition to whatever comes next after our lives here, I want to wish safe journeys to you my friend, until such time that we can meet again…  You remain in my thoughts and prayers.

Blowing the Dust Off

Yup, taking a few minutes to pull the blinds for some light, opening the windows for some fresh air, and cleaning up the cobwebs that have gathered.  It's high time I get back to putting a little time and effort in here at FOF.

It's been a hectic last month or so around the house, and I am looking forward to sharing with you a little bit of what has been happening - so don't go too far!

Until those posts start showing up, be sure to check out my revamped "Kindle Reading List" page (with the new and improved sidebar link (to your right...))

FOF Observation #24

 

The "FOF Observations" are a series of "Perpetual Posts" where I will share with you, my readers, short little observations that I have made (or will be making) on being the father of a large family. You will be able to access each of the posts in a cohesive list by clicking on the "FOF Observations" link in the "Perpetual Posts" group on the sidebar.
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Just when you think that the crazy stuff you see on the internet is a hoax, something comes along and reassures you that there just may be some validity to the Darwin Awards!

 

Yup folks… This is TOTALLY real.  Not faked.  Not stolen pics.  I took these myself. 

I was on my lunch break walk and this car drove up past me – EB on Old Shakopee Road just before the 98th St. split.  (Near the RR Crossing).

That is a couch stacked “Tetris’ed” on top of what looks like a coffee table or two night stands.

Worse part of it??  Look carefully at the tie-downs (or lack there of)…

SURPRISE!!

The other night while #2 of 5 was scheduled to work and #4 of 5 was away with friends.  This left #3 of 5, #5 of 5, the Mother of Five and I home.  The Mother of Five came up with the brilliant plan to dine out.  Where you ask?? 

Why BURGER KING of course!!

She thought it would be fun to surprise #2 of 5 at work!  I thought it was a GREAT idea since I had not seen him “in action” yet!

We arrived, and tried to “sneak” (yes, there is a video game where you (as that creepy Burger King dude) must “sneak” around and feed people – be sure to check out the link) into the restaurant.  I think we were successful because when we arrived #2 of 5 was bent over behind the counter lifting some boxes.

   

Left photo – Just as he popped his head out from under the counter and was setting another box on the counter.

Center photo – SURPRISE!!  Oh, how I LOVE this photo.  We rarely get to see this smile on his face anymore.  It is the smile I remember from his childhood.  This is the #2 of 5 that I know and love! 

Right photo – I’ll have a cheeseburger please.  #2 of 5 taking #5 of 5’s order. 

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Our order was taken (and filled) accurately – so we sat down to watch #2 of 5 while he worked eat our dinner.

I enjoyed hearing him being told to “take out the trash”, and was immediately taken back to my own youth when I overheard the banter from the kitchen where I could hear him being (affectionately) referred to as a “mellonhead” (some of you may get the reference more than others). 

The true “show” (or “money shot” if you will) came when a remarkably un-courteous patron dropped her soda cup on the floor near the soda fountain.  Instead of telling anyone, she refilled her cup, gathered up here three bags of food and boot-scooted outta there without even a look back.  Two other sets of customers walked through the spilled soda.  The third couple to pass through the mess was older and the woman walked with a cane.  We overheard the man telling his wife to be careful because the floor was slippery.  We could take it no longer.  The Mother of Five advised the Manager about the spill, and she immediately called up #2 of 5 to mop up the mess.

That’s where I got a good look at #2 of 5 hard at work!

   

 

Actually, he did a pretty decent job of cleaning it up, and even put a slippery – wet floor sign down!

He has his moments (that’s for sure) – but in the end – I have to say how proud I am of #2 of 5.  He’s truly a good kid at heart! 

Six Years

Let me share with you some “facts” behind the The Life of a Father of Five. 

The Life of a Father of Five went live April 2nd 2006 with the post titled “Why?”. 

In six short years I have compiled a total of 714 “officially” completed posts, 36 “draft” posts (incomplete, or unpublished posts), and countless posts that were started (on paper, as emails, or word processer files) that never made it to the status of “draft”.  That does not count the three or four posts I have brewing in my mind on any given day. 

Sixteen days after going live, I added the first of four statistics tools.  With these tools, I have been able to keep track of some interesting numbers about The Life of a Father of Five.  Using the stats I find on Sitemeter (the first page tracking site I used) – Since Jan 18, 2006 The Life of a Father of Five has had a total of 41,978 visits.  Many visits often encompass viewing several different posts, and so the 41,978 visits have resulted in 71,875 page views.  This averages out to roughly 27 visits per day and 45 page views per day.  (You should see some of the funny search terms that land folks here!)

While all of these “factoids” are kind of cool and may be somewhat interesting and or funny, they are (to me) a much less meaningful as the people I have met along my path.  I am not the most socially outgoing fella.  Honestly, I STRUGGLE in large crowds or while meeting new people.  Blogging has opened up a new world to me.  It has given me a chance to connect with a network of liked minded folks who have truly become an important part of my life.  Without the medium of The Life of A Father of Five to help facilitate this, I doubt I would have had the opportunity to bump into / stumble upon a number of people (some who I have had the fortunate opportunity to meet, while others I still hope to one day meet) out there that I have got to know on a personal level, and have have truly come to consider friends.

Whether you are a first time reader, or you have been with me from the beginning - I hope that you have enjoyed your time here.  The Life of the Father of Five is, was, and will be (first and foremost) an outlet for me.   A means for me to one day share a little bit about what life was like from MY viewpoint with my children.  It has been through my sharing my viewpoint that I have learned a lot about myself, and have learned a lot from others.  I hope I have been able to entertain a few people along the way too.  The Life of a Father of Five is just as much for and about YOU as it is for me. 

On this six year anniversary, I want to thank each and every one of you.  It’s you that help make this such a wonderful journey!  God willing, I look forward to sharing, learning, meeting, befriending, building, enhancing, and improving The Life of a Father of Five over next six years! 

Destiny

We have reached another one of those milestone moments.

Two summers ago, he volunteered as a seasonal “Councilor in Training” at Phillipo Scout Reservation.

Last summer he took a (paid) seasonal position as Kitchen Staff (while his younger brother did a stint as “C.I.T.”) at Phillipo Scout Reservation.

These were great experiences, but the reality of having to drive him back and forth (two+ hours round trip) up to four times a week really took its toll on our time management, gas budget, and wear-n-tear on our vehicles.  It was less than ideal, but in this economy and job market – I’m willing to do whatever it takes to help my kiddos become successful in the future.   

 

This year (actually a few weeks ago), #2 of 5 he accepted a “regular” part-time (non-seasonal) position…  LOCALLY!!

Yup, you got it!  BURGER KING!

 

Although I’d LOVE to see it (and would be willing to pay some of my hard earned $$ to make it happen), I am pretty certain that #2 of 5 will NOT be donning that creepy oversized Burger King head, climbing through your window and into bed with you to hand you a breakfast croissant when you wake up, or stalking you outside your bedroom window handing you an eggnormous, meatnormous and cheesenormous sandwich when you open your blinds,  But, gimme a break, eh?  A dad can have aspirations for his son, cant he??  Wait… Isn’t (or wasn’t) Burger King’s slogan “Have it your way”?

 

Hold up a minute…  Come to think of it, I just may be able to overlook the creepy-factor of it all if someone (even in the creepy Burger King dude)  were waiting outside my window to hand deliver a breakfast sandwich that is described as “eggnormous, meatnormous, and cheesenormous”…  I’m just sayin’…  

All kidding aside, it is indeed fact.  Huzzah-Huzzah, ring the bells!!  #2 of 5 is now gainfully employed!

He filled out the on-line application (with very little help), and the next day they called him for an interview.  His interview was delayed, and then almost forgotten on the re-schedule date, but in the end they offered him a job.  We ran out to get him pants and shoes while waiting for a uniform shirt to arrive.  Finally (about two weeks after being hired) he started working / training, He has slowly begun working a couple of days a week as fill-in during their rush-hours, and is learning his way around the business.  He has now been working for about a month.

One day last week, the following Facebook banter appeared on #2 of 5’s wall (I am blue, he is red).

“So, working at Burger King today, I had a person ask me if we sold McChickens three times after saying this is Burger King.  Oh, the intelligence of some people…”
“Wow!  Some people amaze me…  That being said, I’ll take a Big Mac”
“No.  Don’t even…”
“Oh, all right then…  Just make it a McDouble and I’ll leave you alone!”
“…”

Then, one of #2 of 5’s maternal uncles chimed in.

“#2 of 5, in your blood is a long and proud lineage of Burger King flippers.  Good to see you carry on the tradition over there.  There can be only one true champion of fast food.  Their food (presumably referring to the McChicken, Big Mac, and McDouble references) is subpar and not worthy of mention in the hallowed walls of Burger King.”

That’s when I remembered…  The Mother of Five, each of her siblings, and #1 of 5 were all Burger King employees at one point in their lives!

I guess he is just fulfilling his destiny.

Gun Shopping

This week kicks off this season’s Trap Shooting Season!  #3 of 5 wanted to partake again this year (which I suspected) – so this year I wanted to increase on his success from last year and upgrade him from shooting 20 gauge to 12 gauge.  

Like his father, #3 of 5 is a lefty.  Unlike his father I wanted #3 of 5 to have access to a left handed gun, so we started our search several weeks ago.  Due to “budgetary concerns” our choices were pretty limited.  It was going to be a Browning BPS (bottom eject) or Remington 870 (left eject). 

We went to a couple of different stores, and had him shoulder each gun.  I had him slide the action, sight down the barrel, swing the muzzle, work the safety, etc.  I have always shot a Mossberg which has a tang safety.  The Browning BPS uses the same style which I thought #3 of 5 would like best  but in the end (all things considered) he liked the Remington 870 best.  He said he liked the feel of the grip and forearm better, the lower vent rib sight picture, and felt as if the 870 was a little lighter. 

Since we were fitting #3 of 5 with a right handed gun, I began my search for a left handed 870.  I called and stopped in to an number of places.  My experiences varied greatly. 

The first serious inquiry I made was with Gander Mountain (where we were trying out the fits of the various guns).  When I asked about the availability of a Left Handed 870, the staff member told me he “thought” Remington stopped making them years ago.  He did not bother to look in his inventory, his order catalogue, a Remington brochure, or check with any of their other local stores.  In fact, this sales representative made NO effort to help me out what-so-ever.  It was not even busy at the time.  He seemed generally disinterested in the fact that I was there wanting to spend some of my hard earned money thus causing me to be generally disinterested in spending my hard earned money patronizing his laziness.  (Gander Mountain used to be my “go to” place for hunting / fishing / outdoor needs.  My experiences with Gander Mountain have gone so far down hill – that this may have been the nail in the coffin lid for my shopping at Gander Mountain.)

Next stop was across the highway at Mills Fleet Farm (think Walmart for all your farm and fleet needs).  They have a decent sporting goods department.  I was helped by a very friendly fella who knew they did not have what I was looking for in stock, but thought they may be able to order one for me.  He pulled out an order book confirming that info and gave me the name and number of the Department Head for me to call the next day.  (He offered to have the Department Head contact me the following day, but I was still early into my search, so I thanked him, but only kept it as an option).  Who would have guessed that the customer service at Fleet Farm would have FAR SURPASSED that of Gander Mountain?? 

My third attempt was with Cabela’s.  We have two in Minnesota.  I telephoned both, neither had any in stock, but I also got the same offer that Fleet Farm made (to have someone check and call me back).  I have had luck shopping at Cabela’s in the past, so I decided to let them do some looking into it for me, and if they could find one, I would purchase it.  I left my name and number and was told to expect a call early next week to let me know either way.  Early next week passed, and another week passed with no calls from Cabela’s staff.  Another strike out for the big Sporting goods chains… 

In the mean time I had checked with some smaller local shops, but no one seemed to have or could even obtain a left handed Remington 870.

With my time running out, I called Fleet Farm back, and spoke to the department head I was referred to.  He confirmed the story the salesman told me about two weeks ago (that they do not have any in stock but would be willing to look into ordering one from a nearby store or Distributor).  He took my name and number, and promised to call me back.  (Since Gander Mountain and Cabela’s customer service failed me, I was not expecting much from Fleet Farm but I took the chance.)  The following day the Department head called me back.  He told me that the soonest he could get his hands on one would be mid-late May (the trap shooting season would be almost over by then).  I thanked him for his effort and just before we disconnected he suggested another store for me to try (something that none of the other stores did).

He gave me the name and number for Allman’s in Morristown, Minnesota.

The next day I telephoned Allman’s.  The staff at Allman’s were very friendly, and told me that not only did they have one in stock, that they had TWO of them!  I was ecstatic!  I told the salesman that I would likely be down sometime during the weekend to take a look at what they had to offer. 

Unfortunately, I was unable to make it down that weekend, but the Mother of Five and I made a little afternoon “road trip” (lunch and gun shopping) on a day that we both did not have to work (but the kids had school).  When we arrived we were greeted by the staff, and when I told them what I was looking for, another salesman from further down the counter said (in a jovial manor) “Couldn’t make it on on Saturday huh?”. 

This guy remembered helping me on the phone from almost a week previously!  That’s when I knew I was in the right place.  I did spent a little more at Allman’s (not to mention the road trip and lunch out with the Mother of Five) – but in the end it was all worth it.  While it was true that they were the only place I could find one in stock, it was also Allman’s OUTSTANDING customer service that got them the sale!   

I would be remiss for not passing along a little kudos to Fleet Farm too.  Their willingness to refer me on to their own completion (and calling me back in a timely fashion) has guaranteed them my continued support!  What’s even better about this??  Fleet Farm is opening a new store just a few miles from my place! 

The story of the new gun continues… Stay tuned!

Hair Metal Mania

I have previously written about my "quotation mark” family (and a little get together we had last fall).  Recently, I discovered that a member of that “quotation mark” family has become a professional performer!  Yup, it’s true!  If you are reading this post, you can claim (through six degrees of separation) that you are connected to the one… the ONLY - Davey Roxx of Hair Metal Mania!!! (Smoke x Spandex x 80’s Rock = Hair Metal Mania!!) 

Well, since the last time I saw Davey Roxx play was 29 years ago for our 8th grade graduation party (and he blew my mind then), I figured it was time to see him again – so I started watching their gig-list…  Truthfully they usually played a little too far south for this practical “father of five” to road trip so I kept a vigilant eye on their website, and their FB fan page.

That’s when it happened!  Another mutual friend posted a link to a FB event titled “Hair Metal Mania invades the Babe’s”.  Quickly, I clicked through to find out that Hair Metal Mania was going to be playing close enough for me to seriously consider going!  I checked with the Mother of Five and she agreed to be dragged along attend!  Thus began my FB media blitz!  Over the next several days I posted (repeatedly) that I would be attending, and invited any of those “quotation mark” family members who were interested, to join me!

The night of the concert arrived.  We fed the kiddos, and got them settled in – then headed out!  The Mother of Five arrived and (due to crowded conditions) were seated in a booth with an obstructed view.   Thankfully, we watched the other booths closely, and it was not long before a much better one opened up and we quickly took the spot. 

Before the show Davey Roxx saw us at our booth, and came over to say hello!  We visited for a short time, but he and his fellow band-mates were busy preparing for the show.  Not long afterwards my fried Lisa and her husband Andy joined us, then Chris and her husband John, and then Bekky (another classmate).

Folks, it’s not too often that this Father of Five let’s his hair down like he did during the show – but let me tell you it was JUST what the doctor ordered.  It gave me a chance to unwind a bit, to relax a bit, and to socialize a bit – all which I do not do often enough!

I tried several attempts at taking some photos during the concert – but the camera on my iPod just didn’t cut it.  The video camera on the other hand, did pretty good.

Here you see Hair Metal Mania preforming Smokin’ in the Boy’s Room.  (Did I mention that my Cousin Bob and I saw Mötley Crüe preform this live during their Theater of Pain tour (circa 1985 – 1986)).  The camera handling was a little shaky at first, but I soon got the handle on it. 

You will see some GREAT footage of a Davey Roxx solo between 0:30 and 1:15!!   

Yes, I had way too many (four) beers (I hope I didn’t make an ass of myself) – but, I also had a GREAT time!  If you get a chance to check out one of their shows, do it!  I really had a good time!

Many thanks to Davey Roxx, Kari Layne, and the rest of Hair Metal Mania for truly great night!!

One Hundred Years Ago Today

Today would have my final living Grandparent’s 100th birthday. 

I had very close relationships with ALL my grandparents, but from the age of 13 until 36, my Grandma Betty was my last living grandparent.  I was fortunate enough to have a relationship with her both as a child and as an adult.  I truly enjoyed the unique time I got to spend with her as an adult.  She meant a lot to me, and still holds a very special place in my heart. 

Happy 100th Birthday “Grandma-Grandma” – I miss you (and love you) very much!  

(Special thanks to my sister for the “gentle reminder” about this special date – and I’ll have a better scan of this photo up in a day or two.)

Garden 2012 – #1

After last year’s gardening success, the Mother of Five and I have kept some plans for gardening in 2012 in the back of our minds throughout the winter.  We talked about what we wanted to do with the garden, knowing that we had to do some planning ahead of time to make gardening a successful endeavor again this year.

Yes, yes, yes… We have had a mild winter indeed – and the days are now starting to warm up again – but it’s still early March, and this is Minnesota…  So our plans are still just that.  Plans.  Today though – I took the first step in this year’s garden plans. 

I was on my way home from a Boy Scouts of America summer camp informational meeting (and having found a couple of GeoCaches) when I remembered that I needed to stop at the local Home Improvement Center for a replacement part that I was needing.  It was there, on my way to the cashier lanes when the large display of garden seeds and supplies caught my eye. 

As I looked over all the ordinary and unordinary selections of vegetable offerings, I could not help but remember that the Mother of Five was at work for the day, and that one (or more) of our brood would be at various other locations, so I started thinking about planting seeds as a fun little project for the kids that were home.

Much like AtHomeDaddy’s experience (and still riding the “high” of last years succes – and the thought of making a fun afternoon out of planting) – I was unable to turn away from the siren’s song, and was lured head first into the seed packet isle.  Also much like AtHomeDaddy’s experience – I walked away from the isle twenty dollars poorer, but seven seed packets, two seedling trays and two bags of starter material richer!

Since we had not fully decided on what we were going to do with or in the garden, I picked up what I considered to be basic garden staples.  Tomatoes, green beans, bell peppers, lettuce, cucumbers, pickle sized cucumbers (the Mother of Five picked up a end of season clearance priced canning set last year so I thought pickles would be an easy fun idea), and Zucchini.  I figured it was a safe bet because the bell peppers were my only “me” choice.  We both like tomatoes, green beans, and lettuce.  The cucumbers and pickle cucumbers, and Zucchini were specifically chosen for the Mother of Five and various children in the house (but not me).

Who knew there were so many varieties of the same vegetables? Seeing as this was my first foray into the seed buying experience – I went with whatever option looked most like what we buy in the grocery store.  I still have LOTS to learn!

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Once I got home with the booty, I took inventory (of the kids) and found I had two out of five home with me.  #3 of 5 and #5 of 5. 

#2 of 5 had a friend over the night before (i.e. an all night long XBox360 fest) so given the option to plant seeds, he was less than interested – and proceeded to curl up on the couch and fell asleep.  That left #5 of 5 and I to do the “dirty work”!

We had a blast!  We filled both seed starting trays with the seed starting mixture, and got one of the trays planted with seeds.  We left the other seed starter tray for when the Mother of five and #4 of 5 can be home to partake. 

 

 

 

#5 of 5 (seen above) asked if I would leave some of the cardboard I used to make the labels so she could make a sign that read “#5 of 5 and Daddy’s Garden”. 

I said we sure could!!