Goof balls ...

There is news out there that is just so out there ... that it could not be made up if one would try.

Take for example the guy on his honeymoon, who took his new wife to a Lake County hotel. While in the hot tub, when she would not perform a sex act on him, he attempted to kill her. Hmm, I guess if your first night as husband and wife shows signs that you are not compatible, it may be time to get that marriage annulled. I am also thinking if your honeymoon is in Lake County, you picked the wrong person too!

Here is another one ... Clay Aiken is going to be a father. Like a baby-daddy type father. I know, I thought this can't be true! But his live in friend, rather while he lives at her house on the west coast, she expressed the desire to have her own Clay-mate. So he ponied up the liquid necessary and through modern medicine, she became fertilized. By the way, she is 50 years old to his 29. No plans for marriage, they figure the child will be screwed up enough.

Depending on the outcome of the Presidential election - Susan Sarandon may leave the country (one more reason for us to vote for McCain). She stated that if McCain wins she is moving to Tuscany. Now first, who cares where she lives. Second, I just came back from Tuscany, this is a gorgeous place - so why call this a sacrifice?

When you care to send the very best, and Hallmark does not have the special occasion card, well someone else will... a company in California will sell greeting cards (a custom line) to inmates. The company states with 2.5 million people in jails across our fruited plains.

I could not find a mariachi band on Craigslist - however a couple from Canada was able to put their baby up for sale. A seven day old baby was for sale at a price of $10,100. However, this is not legal and now the baby will be given away for free through a foster home, I am sure.

Well, the more you live the more you question what goes around on around us ...

Talkin' about digits ...

I have to say we have so many exchanges - three number dialing codes - that I am really confused.

So - 211 - Indiana 211 Partnership, Inc. (IN211) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building the 2-1-1 system for Indiana. The goal is to create a seamless network of information and referral services that enables anyone in Indiana in need of human services to have quick referrals to those who provide them by dialing 2-1-1. Additionally, aggregate data will be collected to assist communities in assessing needs and allocating resources. .

So 311 - "One Call to City Hall" The public now can dial 311 to get quick and easy access to non-emergency City services. Several City departments are part of the initial rollout. Those departments are Solid Waste, Neighborhood Code, Parking Control, Street Department, Property Management, Sign and Signal Operations, and Right of Way. Additional departments, including Animal Control, Water Maintenance and Traffic Engineering will be added in the near future

So 411 - is telephone directory. Pretty simple and probably one of the "11" I know very well and have used.

So 511 is for road assistance ... After dialing 511 from any phone, just follow the voice instructions to access the information you're seeking. Some states also have Web sites which allow you to review the information online. 511 is free from landline phones and most cell phone carriers. Services in Indiana may or may not be available.

So 611 has yet to be developed - but we must use this last exchange!

So 711 - Relay Indiana (or any state) allows you to have assistance speaking to someone who can not hear. You can easily call 711 from anywhere in the nation and connect with any relay service. While in Indiana, if you dial 711, you will connect with Relay Indiana.

So 811 is Call Before You Dig - By calling 811, utility crews can come to your property and mark the locations of underground utility lines at no charge to you. The markings are done with chalk that rain will eventually wash away. Allowing utility crews to mark line locations will help keep you - or a contractor - from accidentally hitting a gas line, water main or other underground line.

So 911 is for emergency service - In an emergency situation, every second counts. That's why it's important for 911 operators to know where callers are so that help can find them as quickly as possible.

Many of these descriptions I lifted from their mission statements, their web pages etc just so you know what all these numbers do. Now we just got to find a reason for 611 ... I am thinking it should be for a community calendar of events!

Viewer Mail

Occasionally I get comments, questions, thoughts that warrant or could warrant a response back and this is always the best way to give clear answers, because others may have similar thoughts....

Someone wrote about their long work week, and how they worked 102 hours. Wow, that sounds like my days at White Swan when I was starting my first entry into the workforce over 25 years ago. Times have changed for me, and luckily, I clock about 45 hours a week. To the person who is working 102 hours, I sure hope you are paid hourly, because at salary you just crossed into slave territory.

One response wondered about the history of my businesses - well, Tri State Maintenance, Inc was founded by my family and in 1996 I joined in a Human Resource capacity and eventually would learn all aspects of the company. Two years ago, I became and retain the role as President. Since then, I, personally, started Tri State Maintenance Snow Division, Inc. A snow removal management firm that has oversight of five states. This year, Tri State Maintenance Landscaping, Inc opened to serve the Greater Fort Wayne community's commercial landscaping needs. During peak season, TSM Snow has 1,200 employees. Proud of my success on that new portion of the business.

Italy? How many pictures? Yeah, I know 1,400 pictures were captures and about 1,200 of them are decent enough to be put into books. I had them all uploaded into the computer and had them put into leather bound books. Have to tell you, this is the best way to safeguard something that is important ... for eternity. Speaking of eternity, someone inquired if I have made those plans ... and fortunately, that is one of those things I did before I flew across the country.

Have I ever received "hate" mail? Well, I do have a few people who pass by that do not agree with a stance, but I doubt it is hate mail. The nice thing about writing a blog is if someone disagrees they will send a real email and offer a different viewpoint. [read that as being an adult] Those are wonderful. Then there are those who send an anonymous post, not to offer a different view, just a cracked-up rant that unfortunately can't be published due to language or slander. [read that as a coward]. I believe if I can put my words out and stand behind what I say, some chump who wants to disagree should and will need to do the same, otherwise, take your gripe somewhere else.

This past weekend, I had time to reflect back on something my former workout buddy had put into my noggin and that was making a list of goals, tasks, plans which one wants to achieve in their lifetime. It really has become a living document, which answers the question are there dreams I yet aspire to achieve. Yes, I have about thirty items on my list that I hope to see or do.

Anyway, thanks for the questions, comments and thoughts.

Calendar

The house -well today I am going to finalize all the appliances and make the last decisions on the new counter top.

I kinda did this already. I made my choices as to size, dimension, weight, but today is the day I actually place the order for everything.

I have elected to go with a soapstone counter top ... at least that is what I plan unless I hear otherwise when I go to place the order. I do like the fact that over time the soapstone will darken and it is a very upkeep with out much work on it.

Today is also the day I do my annual check up with the doctor, also the dentist. Fun fun in the medical community haha. Then this is when I reminded that Clyde needs to go in for this annual check up ... he goes in June so I need to schedule his appointments.

So, it is back to the daily grind after a long extended weekend - I was happy with Marco's place in the Indy ... he at least beat Danika ... and I won a bet woohoo. Coming up, I will respond to reader questions tomorrow!

The perks to stalking ...

You know, I have thought for a long time, what to say - and no, it is not writer's block, it is just simple amazement that has placed me looking at a blank screen saying wow! Wow!

I turned forty, and nearly everyone will at some point. Last night as my "fab 50" (who is in your fab 50?)... gathered around me and (gasp!) showered me with gifts, with admiration, with true support and indulgence - I lived out my "Make a Wish" dream to hear Anne Cochran in a personal, private concert. Known by the police blotter as her "shy" stalker ... she made my blow-out-the-candle wish come true.

The evening was majic-al from Barb Richards taking the microphone to begin my roast-toast. Until Anne finished singing "Sunshine on my Shoulder". I could not have changed one detail, one guest, one moment to make this more special than it already was. At times, the concert was really only for me - she sang to me and at times about me haha. (okay, maybe not, but MAYBE)

At some point during the roast, (or toast), I wondered by chance if this is my eulogy and I am just sitting front and center rather than perched in a box? The funny stories of my past romps to the pure loyalty that was expressed in words, in hugs and for anyone who got close enough, tears.

It was a night filled with endless memories. Anne sang her heart out! She put on a show as if she was in an amphitheater to a sold out crowd when in fact, it was just Mark's fifty closest friends coming together to wish him well in the journey called life.

I am blessed. For anyone who attended, any of my three readers, just know that I am still a bit weepy about what you did for me last night. For anyone who is stopping by wondering, why this is not a funny posting, know that sometimes with age, people gain a different perspective.

I took only two pictures last night ... I had every intention of being a Grade A stalker and snap 1,000's but I didn't. However, my mind snapped a 1,000 pictures and the faces of my friends and family who allowed me to have a precious night are in every single picture. I am certain that there are many people who did take pictures, and I have a few sets that even came in over the midnight hour. Again, a showing of how important friendships, family and music really are to me.

Crossroads

The candidates running for President of the United States of America all seem to have some flaw or concern that I just can't seem to hurdle over. Whether it is current actions, past actions, lack of actions all place me at a crossroad to say who will I vote for ...

I am puzzled by Michelle Obama - who is being defended by her husband -stating that she "is off limits". My feeling is - if you put yourself on tour, put yourself on a stage, put yourself anywhere with a microphone - they you are part of the machine known as politics.

I am baffled by Hillary Clinton who spouts off like a geyser - the latest is her words stating she plans to stay in the race because you never know who could off her opponent. What!? Well, more or less that was the jest of her comments for not getting out of the race before the democratic convention.

Then there is McCain. Have to tell you, when your doctor says that you get dizzy when you stand up ... I am thinking you would be the last person I would take to a Catholic Church service. Speaking of church's, this guy has denounced knowing, thinking or talking to anyone who may have been in a church at some point.

So, the real question ... who will annoy me less if elected. That question remains to be answered. I voted for Ron Paul in the primaries because at least he has not been a clown so far ...

Well, the celebration of my birthday must eventually come to a close. I have had the most wonderful month of gifts, dinners with friends, surprises and of course the culmination will be Saturday with an intimate evening with Anne Cochran - as she performs for my little ole birthday. You can check out her web page to buy cds - annecochran.com

Actually turning 40 has had perks - like at 40 I will finally have the kitchen I have dreamed of having. Ground breaking was yesterday and by Labor Day it will be complete. I also will be going to Chicago with two friends to see the Frank Valli musical ... that is so cool. I will be a grand marshal for the Three Rivers Festival Parade. This was the the item I was probably most uncomfortable with ... but you can't fight city hall. Finally, I got to take three weeks to wonder Italy and nothing can be better than that ...

So, as anyone begins to celebrate a birthday - you just need to infuse life into it and it will be a joyous occasion.

Political dream to nightmare

I think I have hit my final straw with this Matt Kelty "ain't got no money" dilemma.

This man got himself into this mess himself. No one forced him to run for office. No one had him borrow money from the mafia or any other person. No one stopped him from doing fundraising like other politicians. The fact that the local media have covered this story (his upside down credit) like he had been part of a national tragedy amazes me.

Journalism? What is that ... Well, it truly is not covering a garage sale to raise money for his legal problems because he is being sued. There are hundreds of other people in our community that are facing financial ruin for other real reasons like medical emergencies, loss of a loved one - not a person who ran for a political office and lied his way into debt. (or borrowed more than he could pay back - if I attempt to be nice)

There have been concerts to help the poor Kelty guy. He was a business man before he ran for this position, and lost. I have to wonder how he was able to manage his company if he can not be diligent with the funds he borrowed for his public appeal to sway people to vote for him. You take out only the amount of money you can pay back ... If you borrow twice your salary (or more) then you are just a stupid buttinski.

My heart does not go out for him. If I see plastic jars at Walgreen's with his face on it I am going to go animal! I can't be the only Republican in this town who is burning his membership card.

Music notes!

It has been ages since I have done a record review ... partial because it has been tough to find music to endorse. The reason sales are down is none other than artists are putting out crap! Growing up Carbo - I would always save my money to buy 45's. I loved sitting in my room, spinning the top hits on my turntable. Those moments have not changed, except I rip them into my IPOD, but the system is still the same.

This past month new music by Mariah Carey, Madonna, Leona Lewis, Gavin Degraw, Bryan Adams, Goldfrapp, Trent Wilmon, Duffy, Carly Simon, Phil Vassar, Donny Osmond, The Weepies, Josh Gracin, George Michael, Moby and some greatest hits packages by Dierks Bentley, Toby Keith and Trisha Yearwood were all purchased by myself.

So, okay, that was my latest music purchase since I returned from Italy. Leona Lewis wins the night! She really produced a great selection of music, and something you could listen to over a period of time.

I was heartbroken to hear the new Carly Simon - oh the poor lady lost it. She has been one of my "fab five" for years but this cd really was like listening to wild geese with a piano. I don't think there is a producer's strike, because hers must have been gone during the time of the recording.

Madonna has been around for so long, that you expect a good cd and then two bad cds than a good cd. Well, she put together a mixed CD of some good and some bad. This is when you wished you downloaded each song from ITunes! She should have listened to Duffy's "Mercy" song and remember where she came from and what we liked about Madonna.

Have always been a fan of Bryan Adams - especially his duet with Tina Turner! His new cd "11" is well worth the purchase. He did not try to be anyone he is not - no crazy rap break ins just good lyrics sung with good guitar and backing vocals.

I found Phil Vassar to be dull - quite a departure because the country piano man used to hit on all cylinders every song ... this was a sure miss.

My new favorite will be the Weepies! The cd is titled "Hideaway". It will be a cd that I can just pop in, lay on the couch with my pup and sink into relaxation. Light vocals and very complimentary backing music. Style is more folk/pop but it really was a welcomed addition to my collection of cds.

Perhaps Bunson?

Yesterday my mom and I made the grand tour of the appliance stores and flooring stores in Fort Wayne - this weekend I have to finalize all the details for the kitchen remodel or as I will call it the "tear off the house and start over" phase of life.

The blue prints are back and I have signed off on them ... they really provide me with exactly what I was looking for out of the kitchen add on. I did find my flooring - it is a stone that resembles a deep red wood.

The refrigerator was a no brainer - I am getting a glass front, stainless steel sub zero wall refrigerator. I did pick out the wine cooler and the beverage center too. These were the easy selections.

I need a dishwasher and I have picked out an Electrolux that is suppose to be so quiet I have to lean in to hear it wash ... trust I am not leaning in to hear it. I also need a clothes washer (but I doubt I can find her) so I have to buy a machine. I am leaning toward an LG for that to put in the lower level kitchen/wash area.

The double oven and microwave has become more of a challenge - but what I have found is I really like a stove where the metal wracks slide out on gliders than the lift, tug and pull. The Electrolux is a bright blue on the inside and that is kinda dandy. I have to decide between 27 or 30 inches - size is important as I keep reading.

Finally the grand daddy of them all - the range. Well, I have decided that it must be 48" and it must be gas. I need a griddle top for breakfast. I really want a double oven in it (because every home must have 4 ovens and a microwave). I like the Wolf, Viking and Thermadore. Who wouldn't? So then I have to really decide - do I need to invest over $10,000 into a stove when perhaps the next grade down looks and functions very much like the big boys. This is the crossroad I am at yet today. Trust me anything is an upgrade over the Amana that I have today ... I am not sure they even make them anymore.

This has been fun yet very exhausting. I even slept in this morning a bit ... I have picked out the counter top (terrazzo), the cabinets (custom made Graber), the wood (which is maple) and a brown stain (the name escapes me).

I need to pick out a kitchen sink yet but beyond that I am ready for the cement and framing to begin. I will be available on loan on evenings if you want someone to come to your house and cook a meal since I will be without my kitchen for about 3 months when the work gets hot and heavy.

Smack that ...

Last night, the celebration continued as it will for the next week it seems ... this event was Beef-fest two which became renamed Meatfest ... as we added pork to the repertoire of food consumed.

A gang of four went to Eddie Merlots - where we gobbled loaves of bread, Asian pork, lobster mashed potatoes, french fries, steaks and kabobs even macaroni and cheese (mac'crack n jack). We ended with carrot cake, cheese cake and a Cognac flaming dessert.

We had an amazing time as we toasted my birthday and shared insight to many life changing matters like dating - oye! We discussed how a normal diet of turkey sandwiches ... turkey, turkey, turkey ... then steak .. makes you want to savour the moment for as long as you can.

There is no doubt that turning 40 has its perks. Taking chances to do something never done before, and hoping that the following years are filled with great friends and volumes of cheer remain down the road.

Oh, and one of my 40 from yesterday - never been to a rap concert - may soon be erased as I am going next Thursday to see ... now I am sure... I don't recall his name ... Lil' Big John or Short Lil' Joe or Down Low Bob or Too Tall or something. He sings a song that would make Dolly Parton blush even after hearing her words spliced together ... I can say the song is a tribute to "Betty" but it is not her eyes he is rappin' about.

40 more random thoughts!

Well, today is the big ole 40 years of breathing air on Earth day for the Carbo... thought it may be interesting to see and read 40 Carbo facts ...

1. I am a Fort Wayne native - grew up in Northcrest before moving to the country at age 10.


2. I once returned to Northcrest to be the Principal for a Day


3. When I drive, and get lost, I turn my radio down to help find my destination.


4. My favorite dessert item remains the Swiss Cakes by Little Debbie


5. I used to think model cars were wonderful fun, that phase passed


6. I love to volunteer and make a difference


7. I aspire to host a talk show, radio, someday


8. I really don't care if I see world peace in my lifetime. Guess I would never win a beauty pageant crown


9. I own 4,000 cd's (not money but music)


10. I have watched Guiding Light since I was a burping baby


11. I sleep with a fan on because I like it cool and the noise is nice too


12. I seldom carry any cash and charge nearly everything I buy


13. My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving


14. The theme for the big holiday Open House is "A Carboribbean Cruise!"


15. I have never seen Carole King or Carly Simon in concert, but aspire to do so


16. I am the President of three companies all based in Fort Wayne, thank you very much


17. I have considered a run in the political race but I don't think I can accomplish as much as I can serving in other capacities


18. For this year's Presidential race I may have to select my vote by using the "Duck, Duck Goose" method


19. I love to write - ah yes, that is why I torture others with my blog


20. In high school I wrote parodies to the tune of 15 books.


21. I enjoy snapping pictures


22. I am allergic to scallops (but love PYI - I added this after I typed it the first time)


23. Paris is dark and gloomy


24. I love to burn candles or oils in my house


25. My pup, Clyde, lives a much better life than I do sometimes haha


26. I believe my Blog readership may be up to 3 people. I am on fire!


27. Speaking of Fire - I don't fear much in life but fire is something that scares me


28. When a lightening and heavy thunderstorm takes place you will normally find me standing near the door or the window.


29. I once flew almost to the North Pole for a volunteer conference


30. I was married for almost 10 years - but had to get out to live my life for me


31. I have tried dating on match.com but only found two peopel one person in Washington state and the other in Russia. Even she just wanted to come clean my house


32. Speaking of Russia - I like vodka ... so maybe it would have worked.


33. I am addicted to "Owned" on Facebook.


34. I have not played a video game since PONG


35. I have never been to a Rap concert


36. I only want to marry if she promises to do my laundry - I hate doing laundry


37. My favorite color is blue


38. If you want to seduce me, bring over a tuna casserole. hehe


39. I want to go to Memphis sometime


40. This birthday season will be capped off with the amazing vocals of Anne Cochran as she sings me the song I really hate "Happy Birthday!"

To all my (3) faithful readers, you now know 40 useless facts about me.

Holding on to the past ...

It is simply hours before I turn 40 years old and last evening I spent time with two friends from grade school and high school. I was 9 when I met them going through the Northwest Allen County School system. At that time, the school was more 'little bit country' than perhaps its current rock n roll ...

Growing up Carbo, I spent much of my time being social - and I am sure that comes as quite a shock. I got in a bit of trouble too. Enough trouble that I almost did not graduate from high school. Almost a year long prank, was uncovered by the administration just before the May graduation. In fact, it was nearly twenty two years this weekend that I was sentenced to community service work in the library of our school in order to graduate.

Times have changed - I am more "play by the rules" now. Well, at least that is the image I portray haha.

One of my now favorite memories, but at the time it was devastating, was 9th grade gym class. Our teacher was an older guy and rotund. I think this may have been a requirement in his job description, to be larger than life so you scare the kids into fitness. I was (and still today am not) the most athletic. The gym teacher said to climb a rope (that lead to no where except the ceiling) and I said ''No, you climb the rope". Well, this lead me perhaps to not climb the rope but also to the principals office. That year I walked the mile in 20+ minutes - while everyone else may have ran it. I also contracted "serious allergies" and could not go outside to play whatever freaky sport that he made up. A rebel with a cause to stand on my own two feet.

As we flashed back to the friends we miss, and those who we wonder where they may be today. (oh, yeah and some we know where they are and we still avoid them) We found that the friendships established before the age of 10 have grown to be the most valued, treasured and most of genuine.

Not in my house!

Never have been one to be politically correct, and today will be no different.

I am thinking those yo'hoz from Burma should figure out there cyclone damage themselves. After all, we don't have to give support, aid, food to anyone yet we offer and they refuse then make is so impossible to help --- it is like trying to lose weight working in a bakery.

The death tolls continues to rise with over 40,000 people missing and already just as many dead (depending on the report). Oh, yeah, somehow they had time for a name change since I graduated from school. They are now Myanmar. Who knows why, they just are.

So now the country is limiting what can come into their land of hovel and ruin. If I were George Bush, I would say, turn the plane around and have them wait until their rice crop grows. Either you want and need help or you want to play mind games.

Now on to China which was rocked by a huge earthquake. At least 12,000 people have died and of course the US is right there offering up our support.

Here's the deal, let's deal with the crisis in our backyard than helping people who despise us or don't want our help. Uggh, I don't know much about foreign policy but I do know that if this was my house and I had someone who hated me in one room and one person who refused help in the next, I would just stay to myself.

Dancing our way onto TV

Yesterday I went to Indy for the time trials - first off, I could not follow a map or direction if I was paid to do it. Thus the reason I am not a truck driver. Second, even when I am told I am on the right path I still can't believe that it is correct and I go into mild panic.

Thus I wish I was back in Italy having a private driver. Oh well, I finally found the track through great advice from a "phone a friend" at 8 in the morning.

Pretty nifty set up this Indianapolis Motor Speedway has. I had a special parking pass that would put me in the in-field. Only to find out that even though I showed them, they still parked me in the wrong place. Guess I am not the only one who can't follow directions. But no harm, I can walk!

I was part of the Alumni Association's Pole Day at the track. There was a nice breakfast and lunch, an air conditioned chalet and tv screens throughout the room. All and all, there was not a reason to leave the building. When I did leave, I became part of a Channel 13 Exclusive as I was interviewed about the race.

Okay, thank you to my press agent - this may have not been the most shining hour I have had in front of a television camera because I really don't follow auto racing. I did know Marco Andretti, and thus he was my "pick". My friend was interviewed also, and she said she did not know much about racing either (on camera) except that the wheels go around that Helio was on Dancing with the Stars. My guess, someone in the control room said - oh lovely! the perfect soundbite - stupid Hoosiers!

Anyway, it was a beautiful day - not too hot and never too cold. I even saw and spoke with my ex-wife. I know, you probably think, what are the chances we would run into each other at the race track. Well, not so far off the mark, she is part of a University and it was Alumni Day. We had a great talk and I don't think she hates me (as much as she may have the last time we saw each other last year).

As we walked around gasoline alley, coming out of the restroom was Mario Andretti. I did not know who he was, he would have needed a "My name is ..." name tag, but I knew the name when he was swarmed by people. I got close enough to snap a picture. Then I thought, why the hell am I taking a picture when I don't follow auto racing. But I did, and it is stuck in my camera. I would have posted it, but I have to read the directions to learn how to send it to my computer.

Guess you will never see it.

whats love (or a ticket) got to do with it?

Last evening I was able to obtain tickets to see Tina Turner LIVE in Chicago October 3.

The tickets are the section left of the stage and FRONT ROW. I nearly screamed (at myself or the dog) when I saw the credit card payment go through as I was on top of the world. Truly a chance of a lifetime and one more thing to add to the "Year of Carbo".

She is 68 years old and still a magnificent diva! I love her energy and her voice and unlike Cher or Madonna, I do think this may be the last tour. About 8 or 9 years ago I saw her Indianapolis and I do not think I have seen a concert that rivaled what she did that evening.

Today I am off to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. I am departing at 6am and hoping for good weather. Should be fun and I am back this afternoon/early evening so I will have plenty of time to rest up for the Mother's Day activities on tap.

Also, if you are wanting to buy tickets but need the password to buy before the public does (harpoanit) go for it!

Big wheels keep on turnin'

One of the best concerts I have ever attended was Tina Turner's...

Today on Oprah, Tina will perform and though the leak is out, she will be announcing a concert tour. She is performing with Cher in Vegas, but there are other dates being added.

Trust me I will be scouring the world to find a ticket to see her perform. At 68 years old, she still has the walk, talk, voice and look of a superstar and an icon. Who knows she may come to Fort Wayne - we do have the expanded Coliseum so she may find our venue just perfect for her tour.

So hit up your TIVO or recorder today and tape the Oprah show to see my living legend ...

A Grand Honor!

The "Year of the Carbo" as I have coined it has led to many amazing successes this year already: my column in Fort Wayne Woman debuts this month, my trip to Italy for three weeks just concluded, my upcoming birthday party with singing sensation - Anne Cochran in a few weeks, the major home renovation, the launching of my third company - but the latest cause for celebration is one that marks one that I had never thought was a possibility.

As the Three Rivers Festival celebrates 40 years this year, just as I, I have been selected to be a Grand Marshal for the annual Three River's Festival Parade in July.

I have to be honest, this comes as a complete shocker. I appreciate all those who submitted me as a candidate and I will promise not to cause a scandal haha.

So for the first time in nearly ten years I will not be representing a University as a walking unit. I will be floating on a float! So cheer me on this year and come to the festival parade!

Last Day of Italy pictures ...

Well, today will be the last time I will post pictures from my vacation ... no one likes a travel log on a place they were not at ... so not to beat a dead horse (umm, reference may hit too close to home with the Derby...)

Currently I have had most of the pictures printed and I am getting some put into a book for safe keeping so when I start to get Alzheimer's I can be surprised of the wonderful countryside of Italy, the people who live in and the charm which remains captured.

Coming up --- another big announcement .... this has been what the Chinese call the "Year of the Carbo!"

Making way for the new ...

After sorting through my email, my mail and the tons of political fliers, I was pleased to get a letter from the Haunted Hamlets that gave me the green light to begin the kitchen remodel of the home.

The project will take about three months, so the house will be tore up and near war zone, but the end product will be exciting.

Here is the plan: my current sun room, that is off of my kitchen will be tore off. It will be replaced by new walls, floors and windows attaching to the kitchen making it a total counter top spans of 33 feet long. Fully uninterrupted counter top - perfect for a giant food buffet.

Next I will add a 6 burner gas stove, and a double electric oven to allow for better usage of space, time and the ability to expand my cooking to more surfaces for more cooking variety.

I am going to put in an ice maker - so I will have a nice supply of ice cubes for my parties.

Finally, the peninsula will become a counter top with a bookcase allowing my cookbooks to be readily available.

I am pretty excited because this will also expand another new room downstairs that will become a music room. So now I begin the shopping for the items. I know this will not be easy but I am very excited to get this started and completed.

Showing you what I did ....

What an amazing vacation. I will share a few pictures just to show just a snapshot of what I saw. Italy was simply gorgeous. It rained just a couple days while there, and they were travel days from city to city.

The people - well I have an entire collection of pictures of the people I saw on the streets, sitting in benches and simply enjoying life. I made friends with a couple people while there and it was amazing that even if you do not speak the same language ... the topic can turn to Clinton and Obama (the only two candidates that are running for President according to those I spoke with ... they did not know McCain was on the ballot)

The doors - I have an enormous collection of the doors and the architecture of the buildings. I plan to make a collection of them because they really were interesting. Some of the buildings were from 300 ... like 1,600 or 1,700 years ago. We build a building to last at least 25 before we have to begin the reinforcement.

The food - oh mylanta! I ate wonderful food. Sampled foods I have never heard of and drank a portion of an espresso after drinking six glasses of wine, a glass of grappa (aka turpentine) and a dessert wine. When you can't see what is in front of you, but develop a habit for drinking, you drink anything ... I hate coffee by the way.

The landscape - found gorgeous country sides and window displays of hot fashions! Old never looked so good nor does the smell of the fresh air (or the smell of leather in Florence - where my new jacket was born!)

Finally, the cooking classes and gourmet events - I had some of the most fun, wild and truly once in a lifetime moments. The process of cooking was much more simple, much more olive oil (or lard too) and everything was fresh and not from a can. One story ... we were told about the three harvests of olives - the first one is Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO for you Rachel Ray fans) the highest and best quality. The second one is Virgin Olive Oil - more of your salad oil. Lastly, the third one ... they call motor oil - you may bake with it (or ship it to America).

The water returns me to Fort Wayne

Well, I have made it back to Fort Wayne after 18 days away in Italy.

I have walked 94 miles across the country.

I have consumed many food's regions to include through cooking classes and gourmet walking tours.

I have taken over a 1,000 pictures from my journey.

I have so much to say but since I arrived back around 12:30 a.m.... I will update everyone soon.

I missed the earthquake! I missed the spring leaves coming onto the scene. I will begin normal blog entries daily, starting tomorrow.