Without risk there can be no glory !

insightwriter.com

2008-10-12T14:57:00.001-07:00

So it's finally here. insightwriter.com My new .com site dedicated to the application of knowledge. Please visit and let me know your thoughts, feelings, expectations, general rants, websites of interest, fascinating news, and whatever else comes to mind.

Thank you,

The Insight Writer Himself,

Jeremy

Home for the Holidays!

2006-12-07T23:49:00.000-08:00

Well..... After the holidays ;-) Yep, I just bought the plane tickets tonight. Correct, I said ticket(s). Laura and I will be flying to PA on the 2nd of January and returning to Colorado the morning of the 9th. A WEEK IN PA...... Whoooo Hoooo. I'm very excited to bring Laura back to PA so I can show her where I grew-up and so she can meet everyone. I can't wait to see the gang again! It looks like we'll be spending 2 days in Pittsburgh to see my mom, aunts, uncles, and grandparents. Then we'll spend four days back in Deemston with my dad, brother, and the gang. J. Hag.... Make some room in the basement brother.... I'm comm'n home!

Cheers,
Tom

I won't be

2006-11-21T01:18:00.000-08:00

answering my phone over Thanksgiving. I won't have any service because...... I'll be in a cabin in the middle of the Rocky Mountains!!! So, to all who will read this, Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you all eat way to much, put on 5 or 10 pounds, and sleep more than you should, but, most importantly, I hope you spend the holiday with your loved ones. As for me.... I'll be curled-up by a a nice warm fire with Laura, my puppy, a full belly, and a cold beer. God bless, take care, and, HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Cheers,
Tom

Just an update.....

2006-10-13T22:04:00.000-07:00

Things are well.... Yep.... Thats it..... Things are well.... Life goes on... Hope ya'll are doing well also. I'd like to get home for the holidays this year but it looks like I'll be working Christmas Eve and Christmas Day :-( No biggie... I'll be doing what I love and maybe I'll get to help someone on this all-important day. Soooo, Ummm, Yeeaaaa? SAVE THE WHALES, HUG A TREE, SHOOT A BEAVER..... whatever makes ya happy! Oh yea, the gal on the left is my girlfriend, Laura...... Be jealous.... Be very Jealous!!!!

Cheers!

Take your time and read this slowly and carefully!!

2006-10-04T21:39:00.000-07:00

It is my inspirational quote of the month.......

"It is not the critic who counts: not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs and comes up short again and again, because there is no effort without error or shortcoming, but who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends himself for a worthy cause; who, at the best, knows, in the end, the triumph of high achievement, and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat."

It's been a while....

2006-09-19T01:01:00.000-07:00

since I last posted and I thought it was time for an update. Here's whats new.... A pizza delivery driver pulled a hit-n-run on my car over the weekend while it was parked at a friends house. There's not much damage, just a FREAK'N HUGE scratch down the driver's side, a small dent, and minor damage to the rear driver's wheel. I'm still trying to figure out how I should go about handling this one. I'm still work'n a ton of overtime but, for the next few weeks I'll be attending a lot of training as well. I'll be going to school to be on the CIT (crisis intervention team). It's a county-wide team of specialy trained police officers that respond to hostage situations, baracaded gunmen, terorist threats etc. It's a pretty coveted position and I'll be one of only three team members on my department. Plus..... it's the first step toward FBI Hostage Negociation school!!! Also, I just got back from a long weekend in LosVegas!! We had a great time and I wish I could tell you more but, "what happens in Vegas STAYS IN VEGAS!" I'm starting to miss my friends and family at home again and I'm looking forward to the next time I get to visit.

That's about it!! If ya wanna know anything else..... gimmie a call!

Peace n' love
Tom

I feel the need....

2006-08-12T01:43:00.000-07:00

to mention a few things. I'll start by saying, life is good. I've met someone who is pretty special. I won't plaster her name all over the internet yet but, suffice to say, she makes me very happy. She understands my job, accepts it, and doesn't make an issue of it. She's beautiful, funny, talented, intelligent, and we have a lot in common. Please, be happy for me...... I'm excited! While we're on the subject of being excited; I talked to my Harley salesman today and it looks like I may be trading my bike in on a 2007 "Fat Boy". It's a little bigger, more powerfull, more comfortable, and the best news is, I have enough equity in my current bike that with the trade-in my payments won't be much different. I'm also planning another trip to Texas sometime this winter to visit Vaughn & Lori. I'm thinking of taking about 5 days to go down and visit. I talked to both of them on the phone the other day and they're doing well. Vaughn is working a lot but at least he's with his wife. I've given them a lot of thought latley. They're an amazing couple and every time I think of them it becomes more apparent to me that most people would be very lucky to find the kind of relationship they have. They go through tough times like everyone else but, they always seem to come out of things smelling like a rose. I've had the privelage of seeing this first hand and they've realy taught me a lot about what it takes to make a relationship work. Vaughn is a great guy and I couldn't have hoped for a better friend. He's always given me great advice and never holds anything back. Lori is simply amazing. Shortly after meeting her she became a great friend. Now, she's the big sister I never had. I miss those guys a lot and I'm looking forward to visiting with them soon. Speaking of traveling, I'm also planning a few other trips in the near future. I'm going to LosVegas for the first time in mid September! A friend from work and I are going out for bike week and taking our Harleys! I'm also trying to plan a camping trip within the next couple of weeks with Uncle Frank and the guys. There's also the long overdue trip back to PA to meet my neice "Lilly". I'm hoping to head home sometime around Christmas. It'll be nice to see the family and friends again. I miss them and I'll continue to nag Jason about visiting until he can't take it anymore and gives in. Now that Tony and Louisa are hear I know I'll have some help and together we should be able to lay-down one heck of a guilt trip...hehe... In other news, I've discovered another band. They're called "Hurt" and they're awsome. If you like Nickelback, Hinder, or Breaking Benjamin, you'll like these guys too. I'll be working a lot of overtime over the next few weeks to finance my escapades and pay off some bills but other than that I'm doing quite well. The three of us are still living together in peace and harmony and I've been able to get a lot of work done around the house recently. I'm hoping to get the lasdscaping done soon and Jeremy and I have talked about remodeling the Bathrooms and Kitchen this winter. With enough luck (and money) we'll have this place done by this time next year. It looks like I've rambled much longer than expected so; I bid you good night. God bless and take care of yourselves.

Tom

Mountain Photos!!!

2006-08-04T01:49:00.000-07:00

A few things the cops want you to know.......

2006-08-01T21:23:00.000-07:00

1) Your 5 year old kid getting pushed down by another 5 year old kid is NOT a police matter; talk to the other kid's parents, not the police.
2) The left lane of a highway is for PASSING ONLY!
3) If your kid won't do his homework or his chores, 911 is NOT the answer.
4) If you think you can fan all the pot smoke out of the car before we smell it, good luck.
5) We know you've had more than two beers. When I've had two beers, I didn't hit a parked car, pee my pants, or pass out at a traffic light.
6) Here's how to get out of a ticket. Don't break the law!
7) If it's night time and you're driving a vehicle with tinted windows and you're pulled over, it's not because of your skin color. We usualy can't tell the vehicle even has a driver until the windows are rolled down.
8) Every time you hear the news about people running away from a crazed gunman, someone's son or daughter in a police uniform is running TOWARD the same crazed gunman.
9) If you rob a gas station you're only going to get about $100, but we get to see a police K9 use your arm as a chew toy. That's worth the hundred bucks!
10) Every traffic stop could end in gunfire, but we have to be polite and professional until that time.
11) People love firefighters.
12) If the light was yellow, we wouldn't be having this conversation.
13) Cops know you pay taxes and your taxes pay our salaries. Cops also pay taxes, which also pay cops' salaries so, hey, this traffic stop is on me. Now sign here; press hard, there are four copies.
14) Some cops are just jerks, but, take heart in the fact that other cops don't like them either.
15) Police Officers - our job is to protect your butt, not kiss it.

Ava is here!!

2006-07-31T17:38:00.000-07:00

I've done it!! I finally talked one of my friends from PA into comming out to visit! Ava got here on the 27th and we've been running around since she arrived. We've been to the mountains several times and even went camping. We spent the night at about 12,000ft near some mountain lakes on top of a pass. Ava hiked the whole way up there, pack and all!!! It's about a 2.5 mile hike with a 1500ft elevation gain, and, lets not forget, it's already at 11,500ft above sea level. She did awsome with the exception of a little altitude sickness that cleared-up as soon as we decended the peak (sorry Ava!!). We've both had a great time and today I took her shopping downtown on the 16th St Mall. I'll write more later but it's time for us to go to dinner.

3 down..... 3 to go!!!

Seems I'm in the import business latley....hehehehe

Hag, you're next!!!! Pack yer sack kid cauz I ain't stopp'n till you come to visit!!!

Cheers,
Tom

My 4th of July Post

2006-06-27T12:15:00.000-07:00

I'll be starting a very long week tomorrow, working eight days straight so I can switch my days off to Thurs, Fri, Sat. I just wanted to post and wish everyone a happy holiday while I have the chance! We'll probably be having a post-4th-party sometime in the upcomming weeks. (More info to follow) Hope to see everyone there! If anyone needs to get in touch just call and leave a message, I'll do my best to get back to you as soon as I can. Have a great holiday!!

Till next time,
Tom

Whats going through my head right now....

2006-06-23T00:24:00.000-07:00

So.... I decided to post what I was thinking about at this very moment. Ready, here it comes. Wait for it..... wait for it...... waaaiittt forrr it......... ALOT. Yep, thats whats going through my head right now. I'm thinking of things that haven't entered my mind in years. I'm thinking of things I don't even want to think about. I'm thinking of so many things at once, I honestly think my head is going to crack open and tons of gooey thoughtfull fun is going to pour out.....

Safe and sound....

2006-06-08T18:31:00.000-07:00

I've accomplished another of my life goals. I've always wanted to take a cross-country trip on a motorcycle. Vaughn and I successfully rode from Denver to Houston in two days. We then spent a few days visiting someone whom I consider to be family and rode back to Denver over two more days.

On the trip down, we left Denver and rode to Amarillo TX, the first day and into Houston the second. Comming back we ended up taking an unexpected route and rode into Oklahoma City OK, the first night and into Denver the second.

All-in-all, the trip was a blast. Vaughn and I accomplished something most only dream of and had a blast doing it. Admittedly, it was a long, hard ride. The weather stayed on our side most of the trip but we did end up sun burned with sore butts, hands, and backs. Twice, in a matter of two days, we covered upwards of 1200miles on our Harleys. If anyone thinks this isn't a tremendous accomplishment....... I challenge you to ride 600miles in one day. I promise, you'll have a completely different outlook on motorcycle road trips!

Anyway, I'll write more on our adventure later and hopefully the camera that was destroyed in my saddle-bags contains a few pictures to post. For now, we're home safe and sound. Thanks to everyone who supported us on our adventure and god bless.

TMN

Vacation!!!!

2006-05-22T05:24:00.000-07:00

Thats right...... Tom's going on vacation!! Whoooo Hoooo!! The last week of May and the first week of june are bound to be interesting. We're having a memorial day bash at our place on the 28th; I'll be sleeping in on the 29th and Vaughn and I will be leaving for Teaxs sometime in the afternoon. Ask me how we're getting to Texas........... Well.......go ahead, ask!! We're riding our motorcycles!!! Oh yea...... The Harleys will be rolln' out of the driveway here in Aurora sometime on the afternoon of the 29th. If all goes well we should end up in Houston on the night of the 31st. I honestly can't think of a better way to clear my head then spending upwards of 40hours on a motorcycle. Plus, when I get to Texas I get to see my big sister!

Tell me boys and girls, what else makes the 31st of May a special day? Yep, it's my birthday! I'll be turning 26 in Houston and I plan on celebrating Texas style. Whooooooo.... I've been needing a vacation for a while.

If anyone would like to say g'bye before Vaughn and I leave, you'll be able to see us both at the party. It starts around 4:00pm on the 28th.

Tom

This is for "Easy"....

2006-04-24T02:15:00.002-07:00

I Wish it Would Break.

My heart is weak, it makes mistakes,
to think is what I need,
to rest, to pray, to ask, what next.

To lay here and wonder,
wonder when it will break,
when these feelings will stop,
when will I rest.

Words aren't enough,
what actions will it take,
what will become of me,
become of me when I break.

To be completed by another,
to trace the soft embrace,
to question trust no more,
with only love in our hearts,
what will it take.

I've done what I can,
I'll do what I must,
to answer only one question.

How do I end this longing,
will you end it for me,
to break this pain, or, my heart.

My heart is weak, it makes mistakes,
to think is what I need,
to rest, to pray, to ask, what next.

My heart is weak...

I wish it would break...

-TMN-

Behind green eyes.

2006-04-19T03:16:00.000-07:00

Behind these eyes of brilliant green a child's mind was eager. She stared in wonderment at the world around and you could see her youthful imagination
In these eyes you could see love and tenderness, a radiance of spirit that is indescribable in any way other than free, whimsical, and awe-inspiring.
But as this young girl, so full of life and love for learning grew, she saw the world.
Her green eyes, once rose-tinted and capable off seeing only the good, became open to the knowledge, the wisdom, the truth of the world around her.
The hatred, evil, and injustice of the universe grew more apparent each time she opened her eyes: from every mornings' wake to each blink of the eye, however small the fraction of a second they had been closed.
And, as they do, this woman grew, and the child inside her, behind her green eyes, slowly faded from her sight.
Now she viewed life from a new perspective.
The sparkle that had once brightly lighted her eyes dimmed, until there was barely a glint of hope or faith left to light the way and lead her through the dark nights.
And once, she met Love. And he brought to her a torch to rekindle the flame of her yesteryears.
But a fire can never be the same, and so her vision was skewed. Set ablaze for one passionate moment, but then left; longing and lonely, and with no compassion with which to feed it, died again.
To avoid the pain of the many tears she cried, she stopped looking, and from all the years of ignoring life is now blinded.
Numb to the world as it passes by, for she sees only darkness.
This wretched soul will forever wander. Tormented by the emptiness that lies, behind these once of brilliant green, amazing, woeful eyes.

~L.F. Emberly

A band of brothers, Broken but never dead........

2006-03-15T12:10:00.000-08:00

I've returned and I'm happy to report the wedding went well with the exception of some rain. It rained for the first time in Arizona in 145 days on the day of the wedding.... go figure?!?!? Other than that, everything went very well and the Bride & Groom are now on a tropical island sipping fru fru drinks and soaking up some sun. Congrats Evan & Jill, here's to the both of ya.

Jason rented a Ford Explorer (aka, the expolder) and the whole gang was there to pick me up from the airport. We attended the rehersal, the dinner, the wedding, and the reception over the next few days and all had a great time. Evan wasn't nearly as nervous as I anticipated and the bride was beautifull as always. After the wedding Jason, Matt, and I set out to explore Phoenix and the surrounding areas. We went to the Library (hehe... if you only knew), had lunch, and got into some trouble. Later that night we went out, made some new friends, and got into some more trouble. As you may have noticed, I'm being intentionaly vague..... what happened in Phoenix stays in Phoenix. Suffice to say we all had an awsome time.

It was great seeing the gang again and I'm trying to talk Jason into comming to Colorado to visit after Tony's wedding near the end of May. Wheeew.... latley it just seems like wedding after wedding.... 2 down, 4 to go. It's bitter sweet really, the whole crew is getting married. This is the begining and end of an erra. Soon, the "unseperable basement crew" will have at last become noting more than a fond memory. The days of 3am Eat'n Park trips, basement dating services, and camp'n in the rain trips are comming to an end. What lies ahead, only God knows.

My mission ............... I shall not forget those days, I shall not allow the others to forget. With unrelenting loyalty to friends greater than any man could ask for, I will remember the tears and sorrows, the joys and laughs; the days spent in a happier time. In my own right, I will go out with a bang, and above all ..... I WILL NOT LET THE MEMORY OF THE AMIGOS DIE!!!

Quickly becoming the last of a band of brothers,
Tom

How I feel about this crap thats happening with my friends ...

2006-03-07T03:44:00.000-08:00

Just hear me out,
If it's not perfect, I'll perfect it till my heart expoldes,
I highly doubt,
I can make it through another of your episodes,
Lashing out!
One of the petty moves you pull before you loose control
You wear me out!
But it's all right now

-Hinder-

Why'd you go and break what's already broken
I try to take a breath but I'm already choking
How long till this goes away
I try to remember to forget you
But I break down every time I do
It's left me less that zero
Beat down and brused
I can't see him with you
Why'd you go and break whats already broken
I try to take a breath but I'm already choking......

-Hinder-

If you know what I'm trying to say here, think about what's going on! Don't throw away a friendship over something so stupid. You could have had two, lifelong friendships. Now.... you can only have one. You put yourself in this position by being selfish and stupid. Now it's up to you to chose what friendship you'll keep. You don't realize how bad you're hurting your friend, if you can live with that, so be it. If not, then stop being a selfish fool. This may come as harsh but, I only have my friends best interests in mind. BOTH OF YOU!! I've seen it too many times. THINK ABOUT IT!!

If you know what I'm talking about but aren't directly involved..... STOP CONDONING WHATS HAPPENING. You're only making things worse.

If you don't know what I'm talking about...... lucky you..... Please disregard this post.

Tom

The wedding......

2006-03-01T01:20:00.000-08:00

So...... I just got my plane ticket to Phoenix AZ for a friends wedding. The issue..... he's quite a bit younger than me. Issue #2 .... Beacuse he's younger than me I'm on the whole "feeling old" kick. It seems as though every wedding I go to lately is between two young people. Issue #3.... I LIKE DATING. Should I be looking to settle down? When will I be too old for the whole dating game? Am I really marrage matterial? Hmmmm........ it seems as though I have some reflecting to do.

On a good note...... I'll be see'n some of da boys from PA. We'll be shairing a hotel room. Hmmmm..... Reunion between best friends in a place far from home, wedding reception with alcohol, hotel room, wedding reception with alcohol, surrounded by new people, wedding reception with alcohol, rental car, wedding reception with alcohol........ Oh boy .... this could be an eventfull weekend....

Tom

Ego peto tantum consultum. (I seek only advice.)

2006-01-29T19:43:00.000-08:00

I know it's been a while since I last posted so, I'll try to fill you in on everything you've missed. I've successfully completed the probationary period at my new job. Jeremy, Jason and I are still living together and things are well. Jason recently totaled his car and purchased a used BMW convertable. I've done some more work on the Mustang, mostly cosmetic stuff. Jeremy changed jobs and is now a successfull account executive for a company called "All copy products" Solo continues to grow and chew everything in sight. He's almost a year old now and has learned to listen well. He makes a great companion and for the most part, he's a good dog. I've been in the business of "tricking-out" my Harley and am prepairing it for the ride to PA. I'd like to try and ride home in late summer if I can get enough time off work. The only problem is It'll probably take three days to ride such a distance and I don't really want to do it alone. I'll be flying to Phoenix AZ in mid-March for a good friends wedding. I'm still trying to talk some friends into visiting this summer. I recently found out that a good friend from PA is in the State Police Academy and I'm very proud of him. (good luck brother) I'm trying to get on with my departments C.A.R. Team (critical accident reconstruction team) Even though I live so close, I havn't been to the mountains in quite a while. I've just been so darn busy it's hard to find the time. Jeremy and I are remodeling the basement. Next comes the downstairs bathroom, then the kitchen. I've started working out again and feel great. THE STEELERS ARE GOING TO THE SUPERBOWL! We'll probably have a party. I'm making an effort to find a new church I may be able to get a little more involved with. I finally have my schedule for the next 6 months. I'll be working nights with Sun, Mon, Tues off. I have quite a bit of vacation time saved up but will need most of it this summer. I'm planing on riding my Harley to Texas with a friend of mine. Then there's the trip home for Tony's wedding. There's also the ride home and the trip to AZ for Evan's wedding. Wheew....... so.......I think thats about it. There's the update for now. I'll try to post sooner next time. Till then, I wish you all the best.

Sincerly,
Tom

The Christmas Party.....

2005-12-18T18:52:00.000-08:00

We had our Semi-formal Christmas Party here on Friday night. All went quite well. The guests began showing up close to 7:00 and I think the last left around midnight. We had close to 35 people, and, thats about all we can fit in the winter, without the use of the back patio. We had a gag gift exchange and all sorts of presents showed up. Funny presents, crazy presents, sexy presents, even a live fish was wrapped, bowl and all!! Just thought I'd let ya all know how things went. If you didn't get a chance to make it, hope to see you next year!!

Tom

My response...

2005-12-06T18:05:00.000-08:00

I've been getting a number of negative responses concerning my last post, so here is my response.

I'm sure it sounded as though I was being sarcastic, but, I wasn't. I do care for my friends very much and was not "reading you the riot act" as one of you put it. I was stating how I felt about the fact that I've been back to PA many times and no one has been to CO. I was being sincere when I wrote the letter to my friends at the end. If I specificly mentioned your name, it was not because I'm more "ticked" at you than anyone else, it's because you are one of the most important people in my life. My last post was a combination of several different things. (1) I was mentioning the fact that I won't be home for the holidays like many of you expected. (2) I was expressing the fact that no one except Jason has come to visit me (sorry Tom, you were supposed to stay). (3) I was expressing how I felt about not being there with my friends. My friends to me are as close as family and loved equally as much. That being said, if you took offense to the post, I'm sorry, it was not intended to hurt anyone. However, it is a fact, that none of you have decided to visit in over 2.5 years. Don't blame me for stating the truth.

Jason, I know you're busy with work and school, but you still make it a point to call when you can...... Please, don't think that goes unappriciated. Thank you.

Ava, I've never been good at these things and you of all people know that. I do appriceate your emails and have read every one. I will try harder to reply. Thank you.

Shawn, You're the largest, most muscular person I know, and the last one I'd want to piss off. However, you make more money than me.... buy your own ticket ;-) and thanks for the dinner, it was not forgotten.

To everyone else:
You are my friends. Those of you who have known me for any length of time know that I hold you in the same regard as a family member, maybe closer. That means I will miss you and want you to visit. If you don't like it ....... tough. Though I may have been a little harsh in my last post, I did not lie. Sometimes the truth hurts us all.

Finding myself out of touch....

2005-12-02T17:38:00.000-08:00

It dawned on me today that there are several people, important people. With whom I have temporarily lost touch. Ashley, Jason, Tom, and Ava are a few. There are others and they know who they are. Thing is, I've had alot of change in my life lately. I'm not making excuses and I'm not trying to put other, undeserving things before my friends. It's just that I've been pretty darn busy over these past few months, and I wanted to say ..... I'm sorry. With the hollidays fast approaching, this tends to be the time of year we all look at our lives and friendships with others a little more closley. Last year, I was able to come home for part of the hollidays. This year I will not be comming home for quite some time. It's not that I can't, and theres no point in lying. We all know that if I needed to, or desparatly wanted to I could. To be honest, I'm feeling a little jaded. I've been in Colorado for over three years now and flown home many times to see the people who are important to me. However, despite the fact that I have even offered to foot-the-bill on some plane tickets, only one friend from PA has come here to visit. He eventually ended up moving here. I've said repeatedly," my door is open whenever you want to come visit". "Stay as long as you want". I know life can get busy, and sometimes its hard to get away for even a few days, but, not even once in three years? No, it's not fair that it should always be me. This year will be different. I will spend less time at home and more time here. I will spend more time in CO working on the things that are important right now. I will celebrate Christmass and New Years apart from those 1500 miles away yet near to my heart. I will not hold myself accountable for being absent in there lives. Instead, I will hold them accountable for being absent in mine.

To my dearest friends in PA,

I miss you. I wish I could talk with you every day. I wish I could meet you for lunch and leave knowing that we're only minutes away from each other. I will continue to come home when I can, and I will continue to worry about you all. I will continue to pray for you, I will continue to miss you, call you, send a letter when I can, and I will continue to call you friend. My door is always open to you. We all have lives and there may be better times to visit than others but, the door is always open. I'm sorry I can't be with you over the holidays, but, I will be thinking of you. Remember, you know where to find me.

Tom

One of a kind !!!

2005-11-19T00:37:00.000-08:00

Yep, I've done it. I woke up this morning feeling a little unstable in ways that I can't quite explain and it led to this...... I did something today that I've wanted to do for a long time. Are you ready? Ok here goes...... I am now the proud new owner of a Harley-Davidson, and not just any old hog. I figured if I was going to do it, I might as well do it right. I now own a truly one of a kind motorcycle. There's not another bike like it on the planet. It's a brand new 2006 1200 Custom Sportster with a custom fender, custom wheels, custom crome, and coolest of all a $ 3000.00 Custom paint job. Yes, it set me back a pretty penny, but, what the heck, I deserve it! Since I pulled out of the shop I've gotten nothing but compliments. Not only is it the nicest bike I've ever seen, It's also mine baby!!! I pulled off the lot with 0 miles on it and it now has 77miles. I feel great! I havn't been this happy in a long time. Yes, I know it's winter...... this is Colorado.... you can ride 10 months out of the year and the truth is. I just couldn't wait any longer.

Pic's taken by Jason S. ...... hey, if it's that nice why not show it off?

Someone save me!!!

2005-11-13T03:27:00.000-08:00

Midnight shift is killing me...... It's 4:30am and I'm wide awake posting on my blog! I was off work today and I didn't wake up until 5pm. I missed an appointment because I slept in and for the largest part of my "day", all of my friends have been asleep. I'm board out of my mind and there's no one to talk to. I'll go to bed in about 4 hours and sleep the daylight hours away, get up around 5pm take a shower, eat, and go to work.
The lack of sunlight in my life is making me depressed. The lack of someone to talk to is making it worse and the stress of work is continuing to build. Dear lord, help me!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Please stop calling me.

2005-10-28T14:27:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know .... I've successfully passed my phase 1 field training program at work and will be starting phase 2 this Sunday. That means I'll be working Midnight shift for the next 4 or 5 weeks. 9pm-7am sunday through wednesday, so, please, don't call me during the day, I'll be sleeping.
Since I'll be awake all night, even on my off days, I would say it's safe to expect a lot more posts. Staying awake 3 nights a week with nothing to do sounds like it's going to be plenty booooring. So, if you find yourself awake some night because you can't sleep, gimmie a call I'll be up.

Tom

22.3 More horsepower

2005-10-20T21:12:00.000-07:00

Yeaaaaa....... As many of you know, I've been working on a project car. A 35th Anniversary super charged Mustang I rescued from P.A. So far I've managed to do some vanity work and minor engine modifications. Today was an exciting day. I took her over to a performance car shop that a friend of mine works at and we re-programmed the PCM for another 22.3 horsepower output. I've added some performance gauges to monitor the engine, and they make the interior look great! I also just had the first part of an extremely expensive "system" installed. $500.00 for just the speakers in the front doors! Wheew! Anyway, she keeps getting faster and faster, and soon we'll be heading down to the track to check out the quarter mile time! I'm going to try to have her ready for the track by this comming May but I still have a good amount of engine work to do.

Ya know, my favorite "all american" past time might just be hanging in the garage with the boys working on cars. It's good clean fun, and it's a chance to get a little dirty. When the days over you can look at your work and see results, grab a cold one and tell "fish stories" with the guys.

Next Major Engine Mod. ........... NOS, baby NOS.......... wheeeeeeee !!!!!!!!

Tom

A NEW BLOG LINK !!!

2005-10-02T17:34:00.000-07:00

Dear readers:

I have added a new link to my page. That's right, I've found another blog worthy of being linked to my own! "A little ray of bitter sunshine" is a Blog published by a fine upstanding American citizen, a true poet, a pillar of the community, and someone who is not affraid to speak the truth. Folks, we should thank our lucky stars that we have individuals like the author of this Blog who aren't affraid to speak there mind.

( Oh yea, did I mention that he's a few fries short of a Happy Meal )

To: A little ray of bitter sunshine

Keep up the good work and we'll see ya again soon brother

The update.

2005-10-01T17:38:00.000-07:00

So, here's the update. Since our return from PA I've been so busy it's disgusting. I started my new job and have been working every day. At the moment I have time for nothing else. This past week was department re-certification week. I've been Tased, Pepper Sprayed, beaten with Batons, and gone through some pretty darn painful hand-hand combat training, and fired countless rounds at the weapons range. It's finaly over and I'm pleased to say that I've been blessed by the weapons gods, and I've been given all certifications. This will be my first week on the street with my F.T.O. ( field training officer ). The good news is that he seems like a cool guy and I think it'll be fun working with him. The bad news is that my department has one of the toughest FTO programs around and it's approx. 17 weeks long. SO, until the first week of Janurary I'll basically be doing nothing but going to work, comming home to eat and study and then going to bed. I have to be at work 6:30 every morning which will require me to wake up around 4:30. I won't list my work schedule here for personal safety reasons, but if ya wanna know what days I work, just give me a call. I'll try to keep everyone updated as much as possible but don't expect to hear too much from me over the next few weeks.

Tom

Back in Colorado

2005-09-24T21:04:00.000-07:00

Well... Jason and I got back to good ol' CO today arround 7pm after driving straight through from Washington PA. We stopped only for gas and once to sleep in the car behind a gas station for about 2 hours when neither of us could continue. At the moment I'm so tired my eyes hurt. It was a good trip home and I had a chance to see everyone, though, I would have liked to spend some more time with a few people, one in particular. Anyway, I'm to tired to continue to write so, for now, God bless and G'nite.

Tom

We're comm'n home !

2005-09-12T21:28:00.000-07:00

Yep, Jason and I will be leaving Denver arround 4:30pm on friday the 16th and arriving in P.A. sometime saturday evening. We'll be driving straight through so some of you can expect that "keep me awake while I drive through Kansas call." It'll be nice to see everyone again, hang out at Bean, and visit with old friends. As allways Ya'll can reach me on my cell phone. I'm not sure yet when we're leaving but it looks like we'll be home for about a week. God bless. Hope to see ya soon!!

Tom

@ long last

2005-09-07T11:35:00.000-07:00

I got the job!! I've been hired at Lafayette Police Dept. My first day at work will be the 26th of this month. I've been waiting quite a while to hear from them and there application and testing process is quite long and difficult. It'll be a rase from Denver and the benefits are better also. Anyway, I gotta go make some phone calls....... I'll keep ya up-to-date.

Tom

America the great

2005-08-28T09:19:00.000-07:00

Someone, please, tell me what has happened. Where have our morals gone? What has happened to Honor, Integrity, and Responsibility? Why have so many people become so cowardly and dishonest?
On May 8th 2005 Detective Donnie Young of the Denver police Dept. was senselessly gunned down. He was shot in the back by a coward, who ran to Mexico to hide. Detective Young and his partner Detective Bishop were at work in full uniform when a man approached from behind and shot them both in the back. Detective Bishop was treated and later released from the hospital. Detective Young passed away, leaving behind, a wife and 2 children. He was a 12 year veteran officer who served on the domestic violence unit, the vice-narcotics unit, and most recently the fugitive bomb squad. He was also a police metal of honor recipient.
More recently, two fellow officers who are also friends of mine were shot at while simply driving down the street. Another coward who remains unknown, fired a single round through the door of the vehicle at the two officers and fled. Both incidents were unprovoked.

A few words of advice for aspiring criminals:

Buy a dictionary and look up a few words, Honor, Trust, Integrity, Responsibility, Morals, Respect, and discipline are a good start.
If you think something is against the law - It probably is - Don't do it !
Learn to take responsibility for your own actions; you alone are responsible and you alone must face the consequences.
If you're gonna run your mouth "Man up" or "shut up"
There's nothing "tough" about shooting someone and then running away like a coward or shooting someone in the back.
If you intend on arguing or fighting with the police " Expect to Loose - Because You Will"
The Police don't carry guns for no reason.
You can't hide forever, we will find you, you will be brought to justice, and you will pay for your ignorance.

Tom

To Obtain the Unobtainable

2005-08-22T15:41:00.000-07:00

Is it possible for one man, who is better than anyone else at accomplishing a specific thing to obtain the unobtainable? Is it possible for one man to excel above all else and obtain the one thing that doesn't exist in his life? Is it reasonable, practical, or even possible? Will the rewards be as great as the tremendous sacrifice that must be made? If a man wants something so badly it literally hurts inside, can he overcome all obstacles to achieve success?
I believe he can. I must believe he can. You see, of all the roads through a specific part of life, I have chosen the hardest. I have chosen to be patient, to care, to succeed or die trying. I have chosen to take the ultimate chance. Most importantly, I have chosen the road that leads to unconditional love "or" incredible pain and longing. This is a road long traveled by many men before me; I have never heard of anyone who succeeded. Why will I take my chances? Because that's exactly what I've always done. Because the greatest chances in life reap the greatest rewards, and this is a chance that I can not afford to pass on. This is something that I must do. I will not fail. I will not give in. "I will not abide those who continue to tell me that I am attempting the impossible."

If this post doesn't make scence to you..... I apologize, but it wasn't meant to. It was meant only for those few who will understand it and know what it is that I'm attempting.

Tom

The importance of a word .....

2005-08-06T13:48:00.000-07:00

So, I got up for work on Thursday feeling a little sick. It wasn't bad, just a minor sore throat and that general "sick" feeling you get when a microscopic bug is planning it's attack. Since I was already out of the shower and in pretty good over-all condition, I decided to just go to work and see what happened. Things went pretty good for the first part of the day and I began to think that it was just something I ate the night before. All of a sudden, around 3:00 .... WHAM .... I keyed the mic on my radio to talk to dispatch and NOTHING CAME OUT!! Instantly, and without warning I had lost my voice. I cleared my throat, took a deep breath, keyed the mic again and when I spoke it sounded like one of Santa's Elf's had beaten me into submission and stolen my radio.
Anyway, I went threw the rest of the day sounding like a chipmunk. Before going home I warned my Sergeant that I would be going to the doctor the next day and wouldn't be at work. The Diagnosis.... Acute onset laryngitis. Needless to say I've spent the last 2 days gargling with gallons of salt water, sucking down antibiotics, and trying to communicate with everyone telepathically.

2005-07-25T18:08:00.000-07:00

For this is Wisdom; to live to take what fate, or the Gods may give. To ask no questions, to make no prayer, To kiss the lips and caress the hair, Speed passion's ebb as you greet its flow to have, - to hold - and - in time, - let go.

-Laurence Hope-

A rambling of today's thoughts.

2005-07-12T19:35:00.000-07:00

I had today off work, and spent most of my time relaxing. This is quite a change from my typical off days. I usualy spend the majority of the day working around the house and the evening hours catching up on my chores. It was kind of nice to hang out in the basement and read and watch TV, napping on and off. Thing is ..... I've noticed another change in myself today. Even though I was "relaxing" I couldn't seem to keep my mind from sorting through tons of information. All day I tried to think of absolutely nothing, and these thoughts just kept pouring in. The harder I tried to stop processing the more thoughts overwhelmed me. Mostly, I thought of home, the places I used to go, and the people I used to go with. I thought of old co-workers with whom I'd become as close as family. I thought of the times and experiences that I'd had while working in E.M.S. I thought of my family, my friends and a few other special people. I wondered how they were all doing and if they were thinking of me. I wondered what it would be like to go home again and visit with my friends. In a way I regret so much that I can't be there for them, yet I know they understand. I thought about going home to visit with one person in particular and wondered what I would say to her. I wondered why I have such strong feelings for her and where they come from. Can I even begin to make her understand? I thought about old friends whom I haven't spoken to in years. Billy H. and Adam L. and Randy M. What are they doing now, and do they even know how much of an impact they had on my life. Do they know how much I miss them and will I ever talk to them again?
I recently told that very special person back home a story about a jar and some golf balls and some sand symbolizing what should be important in life versus what we occupy our time with. ............. Could it be that I've begun to take my own advice ?

I wrote this post in a effort to get some things off my chest. If it doesn't make sense to you, please accept my apology. These are simply the things I felt compelled to write.

Other people and things in my thoughts today...

Ava U.
Tony K.
Evan J.
Scott B.
Jeremy D.
Jason S.
Rhoda C.
Tom S.
All the guys from Cafe Bean
Derek W.
DanaW.
Vaugn H.
Sarah K.
Frank-O
Adrian
Frank H.
The mountains
Cafe Bean
Glennwood Springs
The Mon River
Ohio Pyle
W.V.
Frekels Brown

A Hit !!

2005-07-06T12:30:00.000-07:00

Our 4th party was great! A ton of people showed up. We ate good food, drank good beer, and had a blast. We couldn't have asked for more. All in all life is going pretty good for the three of us right now. Jason is enjoying his new job and doing quite well with adapting to life in Colorado. Jeremy is the top manager in his company right now and doing a great job with his customers. As for me, well, I'm doing good as well. I would like to find some time to get back to PA soon though.
If you didn't get a chance to come to our party..... no worries ...... there will be plenty more to come!

Till next time
-Tom-

A reflection.......

2005-07-01T20:17:00.000-07:00

Well, after reading invenio's "What I've learned" post I've decided to write something similar..... I will now tell you all a little about the past few years of my life, and what I've learned.
Several years ago, I was working 3 jobs, barely paying the bills, and living by myself with what seemed to be no hope for a bright future. All of a sudden, and at the worst possible time, I encountered some pretty dramatic family troubles. At what seemed to be my wits end I was faced with a decision. I could stay where I was and try to "ride things out" or find some way to move on with my life. I decided to move on. I decided to move half way across the country and start a new life. I decided that I would either find some way to live a better life, or die trying. I made that decision less than 3 years ago, and today I couldn't be happier. I've come a long way from that poor over-worked kid with no future. It wasn't easy and I've had a lot of failures along the way, but I wouldn't trade those times for anything. Don't get me wrong, I'm far from rich and famous, but I am happy and after all, isn't that what matters?

What I've learned :

#1. No matter how bad things get .... you will always posses the power to make them better.
#2. Things are usually not as bad as they seem, and even if they are, #1 is still true.
#3. Good friends are indispensable, and your true friends will always be there for you.
#4. GET BACK ON THE HORSE .... in the long run you'll be glad you did.
#5. Integrity can be difficult to maintain, but it is essential.
#6. WITHOUT RISK THERE CAN BE NO GLORY !!!
#7. Distance has no control over love.
#8. You alone are responsible for the choices you make in life.
#9. What you do now will follow you the rest of your life ... you can't run or hide.
#10. God is always with you and always willing to listen.

Party !!!!!

2005-06-28T15:52:00.000-07:00

Free food, free beer, good music, and tons of people! Thats right. The three amigos will be throwing an independance day bash!! Any and all are invited. If you know where we live then chances are you've already been invited, but, just incase I missed someone. The party starts around 6 and goes until whenever. If anyone needs to spend the night, there's an extra bedroom, 3 couches, a sofa bed, and plenty of floor space. Hope to see ya there !!

A door closes and a window opens....

2005-06-20T18:42:00.000-07:00

If there is one thing that the last few years of life have taught me, it is simply that change is inevitable. Just when you think you have all of the people and things in your life fugured out.... whammm. Something happens that catches you totaly off guard. Sometimes bad things happen, and sometimes good things happen. The one thing we can all rest assured of is that something WILL happen.
It seems to me that part of growing-up is ......

1. Being able to realize when something is going to happen.
2. Being able to determine if that "something" is good or bad.
3. Being able to take the appropriate steps in preperation for that "something".

Having the ability to execute these simple steps is certainly a virtue. However, there's always a catch. What does one do when something slips by step #1 and an imediate decision must be made? What is our thought process at that very moment? Do we think of God, the greater good, or the benefit of others..... or..... do we simply switch into self-preservation mode and do only what we believe will benefit us at that moment?

Any thoughts ......

Suburbia ......

2005-06-15T14:30:00.000-07:00

Yes. I am becoming a typical domesticated suburban male. Today I mowed the lawn, washed the dishes, and cooked Lasigna (the family recipe of course) I will now pay some bills, crack open a nice cold Corona, and watch TV until it's time to go to bed. The strange thing is that, up until today, I've been so busy and stressed out that I had no idea this is what I was becoming. I fear that my not-so-far-away future holds a wife, 2.5 kids, and another house in suburbia.

Problem ..... I'm not so sure I wanna go down that road anytime soon.

Any advice or comments ???

All work and no play ....

2005-06-07T20:13:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, I only have time for a quick update.

1. I now have access to the net again.
2. All I ever do anymore is work..... seriously ... if I'm not at work, I'm working on the new house.
3. The house is comming along great ... It looks better every day...
4. We will be having our house warming party soon.
5. We are all doing well and Jason seems to be adjusting to life in Colorado just fine.
6. Between Home Depot, Lowe's, and Ace Hardware, Jeremy and I have managed to spend a small fortune.
7. We've met our new neighbors and they both seem great.
8. Tom S. decided to move back to PA .... (best of luck to ya bro)
9. Only now am I begining to realize just how great it is to be a home owner.
10. Life is good...... Yes ... Life is good.

THE BIG NEWS !!!!!!!!

2005-05-24T21:51:00.000-07:00

Well...... This will be my last post for a while. Why? Here's the big news I've been promising you all. Are you ready? You sure? OK.... here it comes..... I'm moving to Canada to escape the draft !!! ...... Ok, no, really, Jeremy and I have purchased a house in Aurora Colorado. It's just about 10 min from where we live now. We go to closing on the 26th and will be moving in the next day. Because of the confusion of moving and getting all of the utilities hooked up and all the other stuff that comes with buying a home, I don't know when we will be back on-line. If you have our phone #'s please...... give us a call. Also, please say a prayer for us that our new adventure works out. Jason will be living with us until further notice, and Tom will also be living with us for at least the summer.

The house:

5 bedroom , 2 bathroom , ranch style , attached 1 car garage , Fully finished basement , large back yard , beautiful front yard , very nice patio in rear , a little over 2000 square feet , right across from a small school , ya just gotta come and visit if ya wanna know more..... oh yea, we still have 1 open bedroom so....... ( J. Hag.) it's waiting for ya !!

I will be calling or forwarding my new address soon !! Our phone #'s will remain the same !!

Until next time ... God bless, and stay in touch!

Tom

Oh boy, here we go !!!

2005-05-13T17:43:00.000-07:00

I just got off the phone with "Compu-man" & "Angry Kid". They were leaving Washington and I expect them to be in Denver sometime on Sunday. Here we go!
This will be the beginning of a era, the beginning of a legacy, a new chapter in the book of life. Let's pray all goes well.

"Compu-man" will be posting audio blogs in every state on the way if anyone is interested.

I'll be returning to work on May 26th ..... whoo hooo !!!

Jeremy and I will be announcing some pretty big news around the end of the month !!

The 4 amigos will be living together until further notice.... "Or" until we kill one another.

I have successfully imported 2 of my best friends to Colorado ......... 2 down, 2 to go ;)

until next time.
Tom

Quick Update

2005-05-07T01:31:00.000-07:00

Well ... In my last post I mentioned that "compu-man" and the "angry kid" would be arriving in Denver around the 18th. They will actually be arriving closer to the 15th.

I go to the doctor again on Monday to find out if I will be able to return to work or not.

I still haven't been able to sell my Cougar ... ( and I need to) .. ( anyone wanna buy a car ? )

I don't wanna speak too soon, but, it sure seems like summer has arrived in Colorado !!

Mother's Day is Sunday and I just put my mom's card in the mail today ... I hope it gets there in time.....

Sarah is back in the good ol' U.S.A. and I have yet to call her ..... ( sorry sarah :(

I'm still incredibly pretty !! ;)

The beginning of a beginning has begun.........

2005-04-29T17:50:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, two years ago, Jeremy and I set out across country to find a new life and a new home here in Colorado. I must say, it's been one heck of an adventure. We've had some good times and some bad times but for the most part we've done well.
This May marks the beginning of a brand new adventure. Not just for Jeremy and I but for Mr. Simons and Mr. Smith as well. In mid May they will arrive here in Denver and begin there new lives as well. In preperation for there arrival Jeremy and I are about to take a huge leap forward ( I cannot mention how in this post but rest assured most of you will be supprised) One thing is for sure, we're all in this together.

To the family's and friends of Mr. Simons and Mr. Smith :

If moving 1500 miles from home has taught me anything, it would be these few simple truths.

1. Distance has no bearing on love.
2. Your true friends will allways be your true friends, regardless of distance.
3. The bond that holds a family together cannot be broken by distance ( even 1500 miles )
4. You can have no greater friend than the one who remains true over distance and time.
5. Without Risk There Can be No Glory !!!

"Compu-Man" and "the angry kid" will be arriving in Denver arround May 18th. Here's to you guys. Good luck and God bless.

Tom

A good Vacation

2005-04-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

I'm back, and it was a great vacation ! I got to hang out with Ashley, Jason & Jason, Tom, Evan, and my family. I brought my car home and it ran great ! Also, my Dad drove back with me and we spent the week together. We ran around in the mountains, went to the Casino at Blackhawk, went shopping in the city, hiked to Doc Holiday's grave, visited the summer camp I worked at, and ate like kings.
I had a great time at home too. Smitty and I got to hang out a lot and go on many misc. Adventures. Jason, Smitty, Nicolette, Ashley, and I all went to Pittsburgh to watch the Golden Gloves Boxing semi-finals. Jason H. and I hung out for a couple of days and put a good shine on our vehicles....... wheew...... I had so much fun.
I also went to the doctor yesterday and found out that I'll be off work for another 4 weeks :( I'm not sure what I'll do with the time off but, I'm already gett'n a hanker'n fer another road trip!

Here's what's new :

1. Got to go home and visit Ashley, friends, and family.
2. My dad came to visit me.
3. Brought my new car back to CO.. ( "99" Ford Mustang 35th anniversary edition, 3.8 ltr supercharged V6)
4. Doc said 4 more weeks off work.
5. Jason will be moving here in about a month.
6. I've gained almost 20 lbs since I hurt my knee :(
7. I'm trying to sell my other car...( "99" Mercury Cougar.. 4cyl, 5 speed)
8. Despite my recent weight gain, I continue to get sexier every day :)

Last post for a while

2005-03-21T14:47:00.000-08:00

Well..... I'll be on a flight home tomorrow arround noon so this will probably be my last post untill I return sometime in early April. All is well and I'm pretty excited about going home. It should prove to be an interesting trip. Looks like I'll be busy but I'm hoping for some care-free time to relax. I'll be checking my e-mail on occasion whenever I have access to a computer, so send me one if you want the update ! I'll be driving back to good-ol' Colorado by myself around the 5th or 6th so some of you can expect the late night "keep me awake while driving" call. Untill then... Happy Easter !!

-Tom-

Going home again :)

2005-03-17T20:00:00.000-08:00

Thats right, I'll be flying home again on Tuesday the 22nd. If all goes well I'll be in Pittsburgh at 7:30 tuesday night. I'm going back to pick up my new car so, I'm only flying one way. Then I'll be driving back cross country by myself :( If anyone wants to come out and visit....now's the time ! You just need to fly back to pa. the ride out here is free ! Anyway, I also get to visit that special someone !! Girls and cars, what more can a guy ask for ?!?!?! This is awsome, I get to pick up my new car, see a really awsome girl, see my friends, beat up Smitty, and see my family again ! I guess these are those "blessings in disguise" I receive for being off work. Hope to see you all soon.

-Tom-

I am a Quitter

2005-03-13T13:21:00.000-08:00

That's right, I quit. I can't do it anymore. Today I promised myself I'm gonna do it. No longer will the power of snuff control my life or my bank account. Today is the first day of my nicotine free life. Today I will begin cutting back drastically on the amount of tobacco I use, and by the end of next week I shall be free from this addiction. I've been using some form of tobacco since my junior year of high school, and I've had enough !!
Not to long ago, I was having a conversation with a nurse over lunch. When we finished our meals she took some pills out of her pocket and swallowed them with the last gulp of water from her bottle. As she was doing this I was putting in a dip of snuff. It was then that she looked at me and said the unforgettable words that have driven me to this point. " Look at you, I take these pills to put antioxidants into my body and you put carcinogens into yours. Who do you think will live longer ?" It is because of these words that I choose to be a quitter. No longer will the bank accounts of the tobacco company illuminati profit from my slow death !!!

A kneed for understanding

2005-03-12T12:19:00.000-08:00

Here's the update. Went to see my doctor yesterday. He kept me off work for another 4 weeks. By the time I go back I probably won't even remember how to do my job. (now there's a scary thought) If I don't get to go back to work in April "I'ma turn gangsta on somebodys ass". Seriously, I was supposed to be back to work in a couple weeks after I had the surgery. That was December 16th and I'm still off. I am now fat, lazy, and board. Any advice is welcome.

-Tom-

Home Sweet Home

2005-03-09T20:36:00.000-08:00

Well.... I've made it home. I'm back in Denver. What are my present thougths? AAAAGGGHHHH !!!! Yup, that pretty much sums it up. I've been reading my snail mail, petting the dog, checking my email, paying the bills.......... and I'm not even close to unpacking yet!! Looks like back to the ol' rat race. I'll post more soon but right now I've got some things to do. I don't know what they are but, I know there important. Oh yea, the girl I mentioned in my last post......two words....... Wooo Hooo. ;)

Still in PA

2005-03-01T22:37:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm still in PA and all is going well. I've been running around like crazy and the weather isn't helping much. It's been snowing pretty much the whole trip. I almost forgot just how much it snows here. I haven't seen the sun since I've been home either. Colorado weather is so much different, the sun is always out, even when it's snowing !!!!
I even managed to look up an old love interest. I've wanted to go on a date with this girl for about 3 years !!! We ended up going to Cafe Bean to met some friends and we both had a great time. Looks like were going to go out a few more times before I leave ;) This girl is great, she's beautiful, intelligent, and she's got a lot going for her. I'll refrain from mentioning her name online but..... well....... This is a good thing. You should be happy for me. Are you happy yet???....... how about now ????....... WELL YOU SHOULD BE !!!

If anyone is wondering ......

2005-02-22T20:10:00.000-08:00

I made it to PA ok and all is well. Don't have much time, I'm on a friends computer. I've been really busy and I'm having a blast. Hangn' with old friends ans gettn' crazy. Gonna go get CRAZZZY this weekend.
PEACE

Be back an a few weeks.

2005-02-19T03:31:00.000-08:00

This will probably be my last post for awhile. I'm flying home tomorrow for a few weeks of vacation. I'll try to post from a friends computer but just don't know if I'll have the time. It looks like I'll be busy for most of the trip. Anyway, I return in early March so I'll post more when I get back.

( Look out Southwest Pa. Daddy's commn' home !!!)

This is not good.

2005-02-12T22:22:00.000-08:00

Well, here's the update. I'm slowly getting over the whole feeling sorry for myself stage and rapidly progressing toward the F%#$ it all stage. For the moment, I'm stuck feeling sorry for myself most nights, but thats all about to change. This is not a good thing. I've been here before and this tends to be the most self destructive of all life stages. Lately, I just don't care. I don't care about anything. It is during this stage that I have made some of the worst decisions of my life. Still, I just can't help it.
My general attitude toward life right now stinks....... but I don't realy care. I'm gonna go have fun. Thats right, it's Tom's turn to go have some fun. I'm not sure where this comes from. Maby I'm rebeling against life. Maby I'm unwinding and taking out my frustrations. Maby I'm just fed up with life and looking for a change, but I don't care.
Soon, I will go home for an undetermined amount of time. I'm gonna look up old friends and have the time of my life. I'm gonna get wild and crazy and I will probably regret some of the things I do. When I get back to Colorado I will continue to do whatever sounds good at the time. By the time this stage has passed I may have many regrets, but this is how I pick myself up off the floor. If you don't like it..... well.... I wish I could say "I'm sorry" ....... but guess what ........ I DON'T CARE.

Bottled truth only 99 cents !!

2005-02-07T21:49:00.000-08:00

I refuse to whine and moan about this break-up thing. Instead, I will simply share my thoughts, and if it sounds like whining ...... well..... it's my blog. Don't like it...... don't read it. The thing is, I've done alot of thinking lately. Being off work for almost 2 months with a bum knee that may require a second surgery it seems that time is all I have. Lately, people all seem to say the same thing to me. " You'll be OK " , " You deserve better anyway " , "It just wasn't meant to be" , "Buck-up pall it's just a simple knee surgery". Well I've decided to reply to everyone that has commented in such a way. I don't mean to offend and certainly understand and appreciate your trying to make light of things. The problem is that these statements simply aren't always true. One thing is for sure, I'll figure things out eventually. The TRUTH is as follows.
My knee may be forever injured and may continue to hold me back from all sorts of things in life including my career. BUT, it could be worse, they could have amputated my whole leg.
I'm almost 25 and havn't accomplished many of the things I wanted to by this age. BUT, 25 is still young and I will continue to press on.
My last girl friend (we'll call her pam) may have been the one. She may have been the person with whom I should have spent the rest of my life. BUT, Pam doesn't know that, and neither do I. Knowledge is power and I haven't the knowledge that we should be together forever. Their-for I will never know, and the abscence of this knowledge will eventually allow my heart to heal.
Right now, all I want to do is sit arround feeling sorry for myself, and listen to sad country music. BUT, eventually I will get tired of this slump. I will pick myself up off the floor and continue with life, learning from these experiences, and they will change me. Perhaps for the best, and possibly for the worst. The truth is that I don't know, but change is inevitable.
In closing, to all of my friends who care enough to try and make me feel better; thanks, and thanks for the laughs. I appreciate your concern, but it was just time to tell the truth. So, now, I will continue to sit here and feel sorry for myself, listening to George Strait and praying for better times. Here's to love, happyness, and prosperity.

-- Tom --

Things that suck !!!

2005-02-04T19:47:00.000-08:00

Well, once again I am single. Story of my life. I'm no stranger to serious relationships but every time this happens it never fails to SUCK. I'll post more later but right now I'm too busy feeling sorry for myself and knowing that it won't do me any good. Oh, yea, it's friday night and here I am sitting infront of this damn computer instead of doing something fun (but I'm not bitter).

P.S. Did I mention this realy, realy SUCKS !!!

ADULTS ONLY !!!!

2005-02-01T15:20:00.000-08:00

Ok, so, I feel kinda bad posting this link so it's only here for a short time. It's pretty funny stuff but does contain STRONG LANGUAGE.... Check it out if you dare....... CLICK HERE
( sarah... you should check out the cartoon titled..."so I said to my doctor")

I'm just not sure....

2005-01-30T21:47:00.000-08:00

Ok, so, after reading an article titled "reflections" on a friends blog recently I've been inspired to do a little reflecting of my own. What I came up with is a little disturbing. I've thought about the things I've accomplished and been a part of in my life and it seems as though my life has come to a sudden halt. I really haven't accomplished many of the things I set out to do recently. I'm not sure if this is something most 20 somethings experience or if it's just me but I really feel as though I've been in a pretty serious rut recently. Life just doesn't seem as interesting or exciting as it used to. Maby it's time for some life changes (or attitude changes). It's just that I can feel myself becoming increasingly more negative toward every-day events and I can't understand why. Please, someone tell me that this is just one of those phases people go through. If not, any advice would be welcome.

Ramblings of a Quarter Life Crisis

2005-01-25T20:37:00.000-08:00

What causes a man to look back on the past few years and feel as though he has accomplished nothing. Does it matter what one has accomplished or how far one has climbed the latter of succes? Does the future matter more than what has passed; why ? What must a man accomplish to feel, or be seen as successfull? How does one avoid waisting the most precious gift of life? How will you justify your existance to almighty God and father on the day you are called? So many of us seek glory, wealth, power, and posessions. We are driven by so many reasons to rise to success, and, for some, these very reasons will be there undoing.

I am a warrior soul.....

2005-01-16T20:29:00.000-08:00

You Are a Warrior Soul

You're a strong person and sometimes seen as intimidating.
You don't give up. You're committed and brave.
Truly adventuresome, you are not afraid of going to battle.
Extremely protective of loved ones, you root for the underdog.

You are picky about details and rigorous in your methods.
You also value honesty and fairness a great deal.
You can be outspoken, intimidating, headstrong, and demanding.
You're a hardliner who demands the best from themselves and others.

Souls you are most compatible with: Old Soul and Peacemaker Soul

Well......at least I'm not 60

2005-01-16T17:31:00.000-08:00

You Are 29 Years Old
29

Under 12: You are a kid at heart. You still have an optimistic life view - and you look at the world with awe.

13-19: You are a teenager at heart. You question authority and are still trying to find your place in this world.

20-29: You are a twentysomething at heart. You feel excited about what's to come... love, work, and new experiences.

30-39: You are a thirtysomething at heart. You've had a taste of success and true love, but you want more!

40+: You are a mature adult. You've been through most of the ups and downs of life already. Now you get to sit back and relax.

To go " or " not to go.

2005-01-11T16:37:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I'm debating a change of employers. The question I have for you is; since I'm going to go back to school soon and won't be able to stay with the same career, is it worth it to change employers for a few extra $$$ only to quit a few months down the line anyway ? Any advice would be welcome.

I may be a thief, but I'm honest.

2005-01-10T14:16:00.000-08:00

I stole this from Jason
(A) First, recommend to me:
1. a movie:
2. a book:
3. a musical artist, song, or album:

(B) I want everyone who reads this to ask me three questions, no more, no less. Ask me anything you want.

(C) Then I want you to go to your journal/blog, copy and paste this and say that you stole it from me.

A shout out !!

2005-01-07T22:07:00.000-08:00

As you all know it's been awhile since my last posting. The thing is, I took a trip back home to PA recently and I've had alot on my mind since my return. However, I wanted to use this oppourtunity to mention the possie back in PA. After all home is where the heart is right?
First there's the Day family. Every time I go back to visit it's allmost like I'm visiting my second family. I've known them for almost 17 years now and I've seen them all grow older, grow up, move away, move home, graduate, change...well you get the point. I'll refrain from listing first names on-line but I can even remember when one of them was in diapers, and now that same person is doing the college thing. (to the day family...thank you for, well....EVERYTHING....heres to many more years)
Second there's the Hagyari family. You guys are awsome and you've been a part of my life for a long time as well. I have so many great memories with you guys it amaizes me.
To Winston..... Thanks for your hard core honesty and fantastic sense of humor, bro you truely are one of a kind. ( I'm really looking forward to your comment on this post by the way)
To the fat kid..... Wow, who knows where to begin. You were there for it all brother. From my first steps in the world of EMS, to the loss of my first love, to Police academy, to colorado and so much more. Thanks kid, thanks.
As for the rest of the family..... You guys deffinently rock for putting up with me for so long. Much Love.
Third, there's the Chech's..... not that any of you will read this considering you haven't the slightest that it even exists. None the less, you've all been great and I miss you guys like crazy. On the off chance the Mr. or Mrs. may someday read this... You've allways made me feel like a part of your family and I am forever gratefull. To the son, It's been a long time and I hope you are well and wish you the best in all you do and hope to see you soon.
Fourth, Who could forget "Smitty" or the angry kid as I like to call him. Bro, you've been around a while and lord knows I'm hoping you'll be around a lot longer. Though you'll probably need a few organ transplants. Do me a favor and curb the wild ways in an effort to see your 30th birthday.
Fifth, Donya, I'm not sure when I'll see you again, but none the less, thanks for being a great friend and I wish you nothing but the best. The memories of the basement gatherings will forever live on.
Next, theres Crystal, Mandy, Dave, and Sarah..... I'm not sure who reads this but you guys have been great. Sarah, you're an amazing person and I still can't believe you're so far away helping all those people (WHOO RAA) way to be. As for the rest of you guys, the invitation to visit CO still stands.
And then there's, Mr. Simons..... Your adventure is only just begining. Soon you too will submit to the power of the mountains. Good luck with that last semester and keep up the good work.
As for all the people not mentioned, well, I'm not so sure any of you know that this blog exists but if I did miss someone who is a reader please let me know and god bless.
Finally, J-Day.. You da MAN, oh yea you da man bro.

Surgery.....AAGGHHH

2004-12-08T13:27:00.000-08:00

That's right, I'm going under the knife. Just the thought seems to send chills down my spine. This is crazy. Why am I being such a wuss about minor knee surgery. Maybe it's the thought that I'll be stone cold unconscious and completely at the mercy of the scalpel wielding barbarians in the room. Yea, so this guy, that I've met once in my life is going to hack my knee cap off, and route around in there with a stick to see if he "can't find dat dar-burnd tear" then when he dose he's gonna "cut that lil sucker" outta there....AAGGGHHH.......... Somebody get me some whiskey... (Surgery scheduled for Dec. 16th) (For the love of Bob someone help me!?!?!?!)

What you don't know !

2004-12-04T21:29:00.000-08:00

There are a lot of things I would like to post on my blog, but I've been having trouble deciding what I should write about. As most of you know, I have few major passions in my life, but one of the biggest is Emergency Services. If you know me then you probably also know I am capable of rambling on and on for hours about this stuff. My suggestion to you, prepair yourself because here it comes.
Most "civilians" know what the three major aspects of emergency services are (Police, Fire, and EMS). The problem is that in general, people think police arrest bad guys, the fire department puts out fires, and the ambulance comes to the rescue when your sick. The truth is that all three do much, much more.
Let's start with the similarities. Fire trucks, Police cars, and Ambulances all get to drive fast, use pretty flashing lights, travel through intersections while the light is red, and everyone's favorite, force you to pull over and let them pass when your already late for work. The other similaritys involve mainly the workers. Everyone who works in the emergency services field shares what I like to call the "looney" trait.
Let me ask you a question. If your in the local diner and some idiot goes postal and starts to shoot the place up, what would you do? Anyone with the common scense god gave a goose would run like hell. The difference between the GP (general public) and police officers is that the GP runs away while police run straight into the fight. This can also be illustrated with fire and EMS personnel. Firefighters run into burning buildings, and EMS workers run like hell for the guy who's bleeding, puking, and possibly dying all at the same time. Infact, all three types of workers often find themselves running side by side to the same incident.
Now let's talk about what you probably don't know. We will begin with the Fire Dept. Firefighters generally work 24hr shifts (and you thought 8 hours was a long day at the office). They spend many long hours awake, always on edge, running from call to call eating only if they get a chance and when they're not on a call they spend the majority of there time cleaning and servicing equipment.
The police on the other hand generally work 8-12 hour shifts because they are to busy and any longer of a day would be enough to drive even the most stable of us off the deep end. Police do a lot of things beside writing tickets and arresting bad guys. They provide security for VIP's, transport prisoners from place to place, testify in court, hold public awareness and education events, and even attend your local home owners meetings just to name a few.
Last but certainly not least, EMS. These brave men and women also work 16-24 hour shifts on edge running from call to call and eating only if the chance arises. They stand watch over your child when he or she is competing in there local sports event. They also teach public safety and awareness courses. Remember that CPR course you took? Chances are a Paramedic or EMT taught it. They also organize and participate in local blood drives and community health events, again, only to name a few.
I would like to share only a few more thoughts with you. These brave and courageous men and women make little money. They see the worst of humanity every day. They sacrifice holidays, weekends, birthdays, and anniversary's with there family's. Most have no one to talk with about there problems or concerns except there co-workers because no one else seems to understand. Ask them why and the answer is the same..."Because I care."
So the next time you see that ambulance, police car, or fire truck pass you. Please, keep in mind that the person inside may never see there home or family again but they are on the way to make sure someone else does. Do them a favor and say a short prayer not only for the one there on the way to help, but for there safe return also.
To all the brave men and women in the line of duty....Good Luck, God's Speed, and THANK YOU!!!

I feel so afraid

2004-12-01T20:59:00.000-08:00

Well, here I am writing my first blog. I feel so afraid, so alone. Who am I kidding. The only people who read this crap are my friends anyway "right" ? (Yes, Tom Smith I do have friends.) Ya know the funny thing is that for years I have been saying that computers or more specifically the internet are the ruin of mankind and society as we know it. Yet here I am wasting my time with every key stroke, just begging to become another mindless idiot with ones and zero's consuming my every thought. Why am I doing it? The answer is simple. PEER PRESSURE !! Thats right, everyone I know has a computer. There's Jeremy with his outta date 1820s punch card computer, Uncle Frank with his discertation machine, Jason and his hand built super computer, even Tom Smith who will hence forth be refered to as "Smitty" or "the angry kid" has one. So there it is, Thats why I spent my life savings on this crazy machine.
All of this computer crazyness has to make you wonder. What the $#@& is wrong with us!?! There are so many constructive and usefull things we could be doing. Yet we sit here getting fat, virtually wasting our lives with every minute that passes. Thats right I'm talking to you, and unless you can train your computer to jump through cyber space and punch me in the jaw. There's nothing you can do about it...TeHeHe.

DISCLAIMER...
( The content in this blog was meant to offend everyone who is not bigger than me. If you happen to be a huge nail eating monster from the underworld who happens to love the net please accept my appology)

Welcome!!

2004-12-01T19:28:00.000-08:00

I would like to welcome Tom Nichols to the Blogging community! Blog on brother!!

--0r4cl3

Title, I don't need no stinkin title !!

2004-12-01T18:50:00.000-08:00

Well, here I am world. I've finally joined the world of blogging.