Gadgets, Widgets, and Kidgets

Chop (Miter) Saw Station

2011-09-10T15:44:00.000-04:00

I can fully say that I have caught the woodworking fever. You could have probably said this after I built my first two pieces of furniture to include my Entertainment Center that I previously blogged about. I think the sure sign of the woodworking fever is 1) the desire to buy woodworking tools 2) the desire to build of my woodworking shop. Both expensive and time consuming projects but well worth it when I can produce really good looking woodwork.

My most recent project was a Chop Saw Station inspired by the New Yankee Workshop.

The main goal here was not only to build a station to make my Chop Saw more functional but also to get some practice on joinery techniques. The primary techniques used here were a standard glue with brad nails and a new one for me, biscuit joinery. I think it came out pretty well so let me know what you think.

The intent here was to minimize the amount of space that the Chop Saw Station would take up so I made it able to break down and be stowed away. The stand is actually a Black and Decker Workmate Combo that I bought a few years ago that the Chop Saw Station can clamp to using the built in clamps. This cut down on the weight of the station because there was no added weight for the legs.

I also included arm extensions that fold out for longer pieces of wood. The brown patches are sandpaper that I glued in place to add a little friction for work pieces to be held in place. The back boards allow for a clamping surface to hold pieces in place or to add a stop block for multiple cuts. I also still have the option of a measuring tape reference on the back board but I'll save that for another day.

This project was a lead up to my next project a Mobile Work Table with Extensions based on two different projects I found in a couple of Woodsmith Magazines.

Stowable Router Table

2011-06-05T15:42:00.001-04:00

So it is a stretch to say that I am still running a Blog but here I am adding some content. Something about being an IT in the Navy makes it very difficult to be motivated to jump on a computer for a extended time once I escape work and get home but here I am. I have had some time to do some woodworking and thought I would share my latest project.

So my awesome In-Laws were gracious enough this year to buy me a Porter Cable Router (You guys are way too good to me) and I have been itching to try it. I figured the best to way to get a feel for how to use my router and make it even more functional was to build a router table.

My original plan was to build a complete router table but after finishing the table top with insert it dawned on me that being that I am limited on space it might be a good idea to make the router table actually fit in my tiny garage. The router table top itself is 32" x 24".

The router table is made completely from scratch with the only purchased parts being the Phenolic Router Plate by Woodpeckers, T-Track by Incra, Accessory Power Switch by Woodriver, and a few dust collection fittings. To build the table top I used a 1/2" piece and 3/4" piece of MDF laid on top of each other. The base is made from 2X4s pieced together into a basic frame with foldable legs.

This was definitely a figure it out as I go project. Here is the finished product in all its glory.

As you can see in the photo I used my workbench as the back support to the table while using the bench clamps to hold the router table in place. This configuration makes the router table stable while ensuring I can easily stow the router table when not in use.

Wordless Wednesday: Sailor's Daughter

2011-04-27T07:00:00.000-04:00

Movie Review - Scott Pilgrim vs The world

2010-12-24T08:48:00.000-05:00

So wow it has been awhile again since I have had a chance to blog. Enjoying holiday vacation with the family has been a great chance to relax and spend time with my loving family with a chance to disconnect myself from a keyboard or computer monitor. But alas comes the itch to get back to a computer this time for pleasure not work (does that sound creepy - not an opportunity for "that's what she said" right?).

Scott Pilgrim Vs The World is quite the little gem that should not be missed. My wife and I rented this movie and only 5 minutes into it knew we had to buy it. Is it the dialogue, is it the music, is it the old school video game homage, or just a great movie overall - Yes. Michael Cera plays Scott Pilgrim which is a perfect fit. I don't think there is a Michael Cera movie out there that hasn't at least been entertaining if not great. The premise is that slacker / Bass player / socially awkward / awesomeness pursues his dream (literally) girl but to win her he must defeat her evil "XXXXXXX"s - can you say FIGHT!!! Watching Scott Pilgrim Vs The World ended up in at least two purchases - The blu-ray and the soundtrack. Scott Pilgrim Vs The World is also based on a comic book series by Bryan Lee O'Malley which looks worth checking out. This will definitely be a movie to watch again and again.

And the entertainment center is finished

2010-10-25T18:48:00.000-04:00

So it only took me 2 months of on and off woodworking (plus months of planning - hey there was a move across multiple state lines in there) but I have finally finished my brand new entertainment center. This required a great deal of balancing family time, new job, and sanity but I was able to get the new entertainment in the house and everything installed over the weekend. I'm actually quite pleased with the end product.

This is a view from our landing. Note the coffee table also made by me.
I was trying to go with a similar look but you can see the
differences as I was learning my craft.

This is a top view with the lid slid forward. I still have to pull out the unit for major
maintenance but the lid is handy for quick disconnects and troubleshooting.
I also including extra cooling via usb fans (bought these via Coolerguys.com).

Nice little front view. The height is a lot better than our setup before.
Actually makes the TV (Sony Bravia 52" HDTV) look bigger.

This is a shot with the doors open. Quite a bit of unused space right now.
I still need to go back and make some shelves for the XBOX and Wii.
Also may install internal drawers in the empty space. The upper center area hides a
center speaker and power strip accessible from the top.

Still a bit of a jumble in here but I didn't want to tie wrap too much until
I get the additional shelves in. The picture actually makes it look worse
than it actually is.

It feels really great to be done but the wifey and I are already planning out the next couple of projects (another end table and dress-up rack). This is good news because it means a upgrade to some of my tools due to my skill set outgrowing my current tools and I because I actually broke a few of my tools (beginner tools used at their limits). I'll post my other projects once they get done (couple of years down the road). Definitely welcome some tips for what I could do better with next time.

Wordless Wednesday - Daddy Duties

2010-10-13T18:45:00.000-04:00

Entertainment Center by Me!!!

2010-10-12T19:38:00.000-04:00

Hand Crafted (Did I mention by Me) Entertainment Center

From Concept to Garage to Living Room (Soon)

Most of the work and finishing is done. I still have to make a few of the shelfs and figure out what the plan is for the spare space in the cabinets (placing an XBOX 360, MEDIC PC, and Wii). Mostly going to put some internal drawers or us baskets. As soon as I get it it in the house, HDTV mounted, and gadgets populated, pictures to follow.

i'm Alive!!!

2010-10-11T18:37:00.000-04:00

Technically according to my Google Talk status "I'm alive and kicking". I say this because it has been forever since I have had a chance to blog. Not so much had a chance but really haven't had any interest in looking at a computer screen after spending 10 to 12 hours a day staring at a server (baffled most times). This last week has in my mind been the first week (in the last 2 months) that I really have felt that I was back assigned to a submarine (yes still new construction but still sucks). This means early mornings (to work-out before work) and late days troubleshooting and installing equipment and software. With all of this I can't thank Maddie and Amanda enough for their patience (though Amanda is used to this) while adjusting to the work load and dealing with my LAN that is an abomination (not kidding - this network is so over engineered and complicated that it didn't even make it a day getting turned over to me that something wasn't working).

Fortunately this long week was followed up by a long weekend to spend some time with the family, get some tasks done, and ultimately get some rest to recharge before starting the week all over again. I don't know if I am ready to start the week again but I am definitely thankful for the time to spend with my family (Thanks Columbus - though I don't understand how this is a holiday - oh well).

So some of the things we did this weekend:

Movie Night - Tinkerbell and the Great Fairy Rescue

Pretty much finished my Entertainment Center Project
(Blog post to follow)

Shopping for Christmas (Yes we get this done early)

Beer Run to Grape and Gourmet

Lowes Build and Grow Event with Maddie
(Blog post to follow)

Video Game time - Plants vs Zombies

Grown-up Only Movie Night(s) - Date Night and Iron Man 2

Woodworking with Maddie (Sort of)

2010-09-18T21:43:00.000-04:00

So one of my recent hobbies I've started in the last year has been woodworking. It started out as wanting to build a bird house or bird feeder and has grown into building furniture. I'm not sure if anyone else shares a similar frustration but it seems that there is never the perfect furniture item I'm looking for at least when it comes to functionality and looks. Half the time I only find a item that is sort of what I am looking for but way more expensive that I'm willing to spend. My first couple of furniture builds where a end table and coffee table but recently I have been working on a entertainment center.

The entertainment center has been a long term project starting back as early as before we left CT (mostly just a design at that point) but is steadily coming along. There will definitely be a post once I'm done (hopefully soonish). The girls have been more than patient and I try not to make the project take of to much of my time but it can be time consuming. I request help when needed and let Maddie help when possible but a woodworking shop is not exactly a kid friendly environment. Hey sweeping and vacuuming is vital to a functioning workshop though no telling what I'm missing in the vacuum.

During a family trip to the local Lowes (yes we do this) we came across an opportunity to do a Maddie and Daddy woodworking project (plus many to come).

Build and Grow Pirate Ship

Now while this is not exactly a woodworking project, I do think it is a nice intro into working with our hands, following directions, and working with basic tools. I bought this project set and a Red Toolbox Tool Set (Hammer, Screwdriver Set, Tape Measure, Safety Goggles). The tool set is nice because it provides an actual tool set that is convenient for little hands to use.

The pirate ship only required the hammer for assembly and went together pretty quickly. Maddie needed a little help with the actual hammering but did really good with the putting the parts together. Actually the directions weren't really needed but where easy to follow. I had Maddie count the parts to make sure we had them all (a little counting in there).

There are quite a few more of these type building projects available so I can see a few of these showing up from Santa. Plus there is no limit to what we can come up with on our own. Lowes also does Build and Grow Clinics that provide more chances for building projects. Maddie and I are signed up for the next one.

Got Beer? - Great Divide Rumble

2010-09-12T08:46:00.000-04:00

Rumble

Oak Aged India Pale Ale

Great Divide Brewing Company

"Rumble IPA is an American IPA with subtle nuance. Brewed with heavy handed additions of Pacific Northwest hops, this beer is gently aged on French and American oak resulting in a wonderful balance of bitterness, caramel sweetness, vanilla, and undertones of pine and citrus. Very inspiring. 7.1% ABV" (Great Divide Brewing Company, 2010)

So I have found a new favorite beer (at least for today) thanks to my new favorite store Grape and Gourmet (aka Dad's Candy Store).

I stumbled across (as has been with some of the other new favorite stores I have found in VA) while out and about with the family running errands. It was pure chance that we even went in the store but definitely glad I did even better that it is 20 -25 minutes away (quick jaunt when I do go but far enough away to keep from visiting to often). The selection is unmatched and I love that you can build you own six pack using the displayed beer rating and detailed description. This store requires a man date for when my father-in-law, Paul, comes down to visit.

Rumble is probably the smoothest IPA I have had to date (this is probably dangerous because it puts a challenge to no more than one beer or glass of wine a day - moderation!!!). The caramel and vanilla stand out and leave an aftertaste that leaves you wanting more. I enjoyed this beer while playing video games so that definitely lead to a chance to savor my beer. The Great Divide web site provides some good food pairings but in most cases I save my alcohol beverage for relaxing on the couch.

Gaming with Maddie Series Part 1 - Wipeout The Game

2010-09-02T16:19:00.000-04:00

It is always great when I can split some video game time with the family. This usually tends to be difficult when the types of games I play are less than family friendly such as Halo Reach(very soon I hope) or Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2. The biggest enabler to supporting family video game time has been the Nintendo Wii.

Our Nintendo Wii was definitely not a planned purchase and really wasn't a purchase by us (Thank you Grandma!!) but has become a welcomed addition to our home entertainment setup. The Wii is a video game system that is family friendly and also provides the opportunity to play video games while getting off the couch (we have actually worked up a sweat on some of the games).

One of our most recent video game tries (via Gamefly) is

Wipeout The Game by Activision (Wii).

Wipeout The Game is based on the ABC TV Show Wipeout. My wife and I have been long time watchers and yes we may have let Madison watch this once or chance ( I know we are terrible parents). There is nothing better than after a long day at work coming home to watch people go through an insane obstacle course and some how escape injury. Wipeout The Game allows you to join in the fun from the comfort of your couch (no post game neck brace required).

The controls are super simple - The Nunchuk joystick is used to move your character and the Wii Remote Controller "A" button is used to jump (also used to steady your character or climb over obstacles via shaking it). The Wii Remote Controller can also be used while waiting your turn to shoot various balls at the current player (Amanda doesn't think this is fair). Madison is able to play her own character by herself so it allows mommy and me to be competitors also.

The game itself provides various levels of difficulty with the obstacles changing based on the difficulty level. Some of the obstacles are definitely harder than others. This provides a fun game but can also be frustrating at times.

The graphics are pretty standard for the Wii which is grainy and pixilated at times (I know, spoiled by my XBOX 360). The mechanics for the individual characters do not mirror real life (which is probably a good thing) so you end of with wet noodle characters during falls, bumps, and crushes. This actually leads to the "Wipeouts" being very comical.

The character selection is limited to the characters provided with some characters only being accessible as you progress in the game. I was really surprised the player is not able to use their Mii character but the characters provided are quite colorful and unique.

Overall the is a very fun game to play but not something I would purchase. This game really provides the feel of a game quickly thrown together as a tie in to the show. Maybe somewhere down the road we will see a better interation of the game but until then Wipeout The Game is worth a try and a quick laugh.

The Gourmet Chief Strikes Back - Almond Joy Pancakes

2010-08-29T10:53:00.000-04:00

Almond Joy Pancakes

I tend to be a lot more adventurous in my cooking than I am in my actual eating habits. Amanda does a really good job of getting me to branch out and try new foods but I definitely think getting a chance to experiment on my own does get me to be creative with new dishes.

I previously posted a recipe for my Caramel Apple Pancakes that the girls love and thought I would try a new spin on pancakes with Almond Joy Pancakes.

Ingredients (Double Batch)

4 cups – Heart Smart Bisquick (Add additional mix as needed)

2 cups – Milk (Add additional milk as needed)

2 eggs

1/2 Cup - CocoReal Coconut Syrup (Found in Alcoholic Mixer Aisle - Alcohol not included and um not recommended)

1 cup - Slivered Almonds

1 1/2 cups - Chocolate Chips

1 cup - Sweetened Angle Flake Coconut

All measurements are a rough estimate. I tend to make my batter a little soupier for fluffier pancakes but feel free to make to your own preference (make sure you wait until everything is mixed together before adding additional milk or mix). You will also notice this is a double batch. These pancakes reheat really well and usually last us quite a while after freezing.

In a large mixing bowl combine the Bisquick, Milk, Eggs, Coconut Syrup, Almonds, Chocolate Chips, and Coconut Flakes. This is usually done better with a spatula vice whisk due to the almonds, chocolate chips, and coconut. As mentioned before I tend to make my batter soupier for fluffy pancakes but this is definitely a preference thing. From there make pancakes as you normally would (I usually use a 1/4 cup for pouring). Make sure to remix the batter every once in awhile to keep the almonds, chocolate chips, and coconut from sinking to the bottom.

As mentioned before this makes a double batch so freeze whatever you don't eat. To reheat just pull out how many you want from the freezer, stick on a cookie sheet, place in the oven, and turn the oven to 350 degrees. Usually by the time the oven pre-heats the pancakes are good to pull from the oven but if you oven is more proficient than ours then you might want to wait a few minutes.Enjoy.

Any other ideas to spice up breakfast or brinner (oh yes we are brinner aficionados)?

Beer slob to beer snob - Southern Tier unearthly imperial ipa

2010-08-14T09:15:00.000-04:00

This post is not an endorsement about the consumption of alcohol but about if you do consume at least make sure it's in moderation and what your drinking is actually good.

I know that there is some association with sailors and drinking but that is an image the Navy as an organization has been trying to squash (rightly so). I will admit though in my younger and more foolish days after coming into the Navy that my alcohol consumption may have been in excess at times. As I have gotten older and more mature (really just too old to party hard - just kidding - really I just met the perfect woman) my alcohol consumption has moved from quantity to quality. I've gone from a night of partying and drinking like a fish with my friends to a glass of wine while I enjoy an evening with my girls (I definitely enjoy the later more).

Becoming a Beer Snob?

Even after I shifted away from my nights of drinking and partying to settling down, my alcohol preferences pretty much stayed the same. If you were to look in my fridge you would probably find a Bud Light or Corona. For a while, the highest end beer you would find would be a Sam Adams. And then came along my in-laws. I have to thank my mother-in-law Kathy for introducing me to wine and my father-in-law Paul for introducing me to quality beer. I feel like an idiot for all the years that I drank beer that tasted terrible (I didn't know any better) just to get a buzz but now I enjoy a beer now and then because it actually tastes good. One of my favorite beers as introduced by Paul is from Southern Tier Brewing Company.

Southern Tier unearthly Imperial IPA

Now this is quality beer. I tend to steer towards the IPAs based the hoppy and malty flavor. The flavor is good and it goes down smoothly with the hops not being too bitter. Sometimes you'll see with an IPA brewed with a lot of hops that you'll get a bitter aftertaste but I don't think this is the case with unearthly. This is a beer to sit down and watch a TV show or play video games but nothing I would drink watching a football game or long movie (more than one or two and you will be on your bottom). You really have to look at the alcohol content on these and moderation is really the key. If your looking for something a little less overpowering Southern Tier brews a standard IPA that is a close match for flavor but lower alcohol content.

So remember if you are going to drink, drink in moderation and drink something that actually tastes good vice chugging down that skunk beer. My friend Evan was a covert from Bud Light to Southern Tier unearthly and guarantee there is no going back.

When game rentals go bad - Naval Assault: The Killing Tide

2010-08-08T08:17:00.000-04:00

So I have been pretty busy with the move to VA but it looks like most of the unpacking is done and it's time to do some relaxing. For the most part my girls and I have shifted back into our regular routine of once Maddie goes to bed, wifey and I either play video games or catch up on our shows. With time to play video games this means time to start back up Gamefly.

So I pride myself with normally choosing games that are in line with the types of video games I like playing and usually I luck out actually liking most of the games I rent. Gamefly helps with that whole process because I can keep a steady flow of rental games coming for different gaming systems and genres.

Naval Assault: The Killing Tide by 505 Games (XBOX 36o)

So my most recent rental, Naval Assault, was a complete miss. I can't remember the last time I played a game that was so boring and frustrating. Naval Assault: The Killing Tide attempts to provide an alternate progression for World War II where Germany is not only successful in Europe but also drives Russia into submission thus bringing the war to America via their Naval Forces. Really good concept but terrible application.

The title implies big naval battles but really the only ship type you have access to is a submarine. As a submariner in real life I don't disagree with this except the whole submarine experience is watered down. Changing depth is limited to three depths (deep, periscope depth, and surface). Firing torpedoes is limited to firing the direction your submarine is pointed though the game allows you to nudge your torpedo after firing (very limited). You are also given assess to a deck gun when surfaced. The camera is probably the worst I've seen in any game. You would expect the camera to rotate 360 degrees but this is not the case. This makes it particularly difficult when expected to navigate a mine field where you can't move the camera to see the mines you are supposed to maneuver around.

The worst part of the game is the lack of action and the slow going lull between the spotty action you do get. I was able to play through the first couple of missions before finally calling it quicks. The actual game play controls are doable but the limited battle situations makes it difficult having the patience to wait through moving slowly and stealthily from one place to another or waiting for the ships that did detect you to go away (yeah the A.I. is really dumb). I have a hard spot wasting the limited game play time I allow myself sitting and doing nothing.

So I would definitely not recommend this game. I could see this game working really well on a hand held gaming system but on the XBOX 360 it seems like a complete waste. If you are really looking for a fun naval battle game try Battlestations: Pacific.

Gadget Review - Belkin N Wireless Notebook Card

2010-07-21T08:49:00.000-04:00

I am always on the look out for the next new gadget to add to my home theater or home network setup. Sometimes to just try something out and sometimes just to leverage that extra bit of value out of my systems. I pride myself on a good balance of getting a good product, trying a new product (not recognizing the brand name is not a bad thing), and finding a good price. My most recent purchase is the Belkin N Wireless Notebook Card (F5D8013) bought from BLUTEKUSA via Amaz on.com.

The Belkin N Wireless Notebook Card (F5D8013) definitely feels like one of those really good purchases. You know when you don't spend a lot of money but you feel like you got more than you expected. As indicated the F5D8013 is produced by Belkin International, Inc. I am somewhat new to using Belkin products for my wireless network (Not really the first brand that comes to mind for network specific components) but have been very pleased so far. I previously purchased a Belkin N+ Wireless Router (F5D8235-4) after running through a Linksys and Netgear wireless router that just wasn't cutting it. Very reliable though it can be a bit finicky when setting up with some components (still can't get my PSP to connect via it but no problems with my PS3 - I think I know what the problem is but too lazy to mess with it).

The F5D8013 has lived up to what I now expect from the Belkin wireless network experience. I was able to pull the F5D8013 straight out of the box and set up within minutes using the included network connection management software and driver (I will most likely shift back to Windows managing the connection but figured I would try out the software). I am using the F5D8013 on my HP Pavilion zv6000 running XP Professional (Supports 2000, XP, and Vista). Absolutely no problems with the driver and the card itself is not too obtrusive sticking out.

Performance wise the F5D8013 has been great so far. Signal strength and data rate stay pretty consistent whether inside or outside. I took my laptop out to the back corner of the garage (about 200 feet from the router / garage is seperate from the house) and saw no large decrease in connectivity. Still in limbo for moving my family so I'm not able to test with my media center setup, but based on connectivity it appears comparable with my wife's laptop with built in wireless N which worked great with our media center setup.

The specifications (as provided by Belkin) are as follows:

Link Rate	Up to 300 Mbps in 40MHz Channel Mode
Network Standards	IEEE 802.11b , IEEE 802.11g , IEEE 802.11n
Range	Up to 1,200ft
Security	WPA, WPA2, 64-bit/128-bit encryption
Specifications Interface	32-bit CardBus slot

Purchase/Delivery Experience:

As usually seen with Amazon, the pricing and delivery exceeded expectations. I purchased the F5D8013 for less than $7 (retails for $59.99). Delivery was fast. As mentioned I am currently in the middle of the move and still got my delivery in less than 3 days (2 days less than expected).

To find a really good purchase I think you have to be willing to try something new and be willing to do the research. The F5D8013 is a perfect example of stumbling across a good buy. Anyone else have any purchases that they have made that met or exceeded expectations? Any devices I should try?

Caramel Apple Pancakes by the Gourmet Chief

2010-07-17T08:01:00.000-04:00

While Amanda does most of the cooking (not because it is expected.. just works out that way.. way better cook than me), I do have a few recipes that are mandatory for putting on the apron every once in a while. One of Amanda's and Maddie's favorites, especially when it comes to breakfast, is my Caramel Apple Pancakes.

My wife actually put this recipe on her blog a few months ago, but I thought maybe I should post it on my own as well. In both cases I find it much easier to make the pancakes vice actually figuring how I make my Caramel Apple Pancakes (I am a wing it kind of cook.. measure? whaattt?). I'm a big believer in that recipes are meant to have some flexibility and you should always be willing to try something different, hence how my Caramel Apple Pancakes came about.

Ingredients (Double Batch):

4 cups – Heart Smart Bisquick (Add additional mix as needed)

2 cups – Milk (Add additional milk as needed)

2 eggs

Single Serving Granny Smith Apple Sauce

1/2 cup – Smucker’s Sundae Syrup (Caramel)

11 oz (1 bag) – Kraft Premium Caramel Bits

1 Granny Smith Apple (2 if the apples are smaller)

Cup of Coffee (Don't put in the mix.. just a requirement for me this early in the morning)

All measurements are a rough estimate. I tend to make my batter a little soupier for fluffier pancakes but feel free to make to your own preference (make sure you wait until everything is mixed together before adding additional milk or mix). Additionally, I have made this from scratch which is how my wife originally posted the recipe, though I have varied the recipe a bit since then (I chop up the apples vice shredding them.. Also I use apple sauce vice apple cider). You will also notice this is a double batch. These pancakes reheat really well and usually last us quite a while after freezing.

The Star Wars Pajama Pants are a key part of the cooking process.

In a large mixing bowl combine the Bisquick, Milk, Eggs, Apple Sauce, Caramel Syrup, and Caramel Bits. This is usually done better with a spatula vice whisk due to the caramel bits. Take the apple and use a peeler to remove the skin. Next cut the apple into small chunks and fold into the batter. This is about the time I add additional milk or mix. As mentioned before I tend to make my batter soupier for fluffy pancakes but this is definitely a preference thing. From there make pancakes as you normally would (I usually use a 1/4 cup for pouring). Make sure to remix the batter every once in awhile to keep the caramel bits from sinking to the bottom. One thing you do want to be aware of is that as you make the pancakes on the griddle that the apples will break down and thin out the batter (just a little more mix to thicken it back up).

Friends (Eeeh?)

2010-07-07T18:18:00.000-04:00

Being in the Navy or in the military in general encompasses the ever present requirement of moving from place to place based on the needs of the respective organization. While I am pretty sure this is something that happens in the civilian workforce, I would be hard stretched to believe that it happens as often. In the Navy on average this tends to happen at least every 3 - 5 years but in my own case it has felt like I've done this just about every 2 - 3 years within in my 13 years in. I have been lucky enough to actual keep my family in one place for 3 1/2 years but here again we find ourselves preparing to move as I leave shore duty and head back to a ship.

Moving or just transferring from a command always brings about saying goodbye to friends and co-workers. As my wife will attest I am not exactly the most social person. When I was younger I would call myself a shy/people person (I make friends easily but I tend to not initiate and keep to myself) but in my more senior years you might as well just call my grumpy. I will be the old guy yelling at the kids to get out of my yard (Mr. Wilson is my idol). So with this I have always had friends at work with various levels of closeness but the truly close friends have always been far and few between.

Without a doubt my wife, Amanda, is my best friend but there is always the things that are hard to explain or share (though she does a good job of trying). Some of this is a simple as trying to understand what I going through with the Navy or as simple as guy humor (She thinks its absurd how mean we seem to be to each other - I use to tell my guys in the division that if I wasn't make fun of them then it probably meant I didn't care anymore). Having guy friends that go through the same experiences as me gives me that chance to blow off steam or just complain about the Navy in general (Disclaimer - As a Chief Petty Officer, I have absolutely no complaints about the Navy, it's a perfect organization - As a sailor, I wonder some days how we are the best navy in the world).

For anyone familiar with the military there is always some level of camaraderie between the troops, whether they be soldiers or sailors. No matter how much we sometimes hate and despise each other when it comes down to it, we are family. Because of this mindset and environment of working and sometimes living together you develop some really good friendships. This sometimes leads to lasting friendships and sometimes not so much.

My recent shore duty was surprisingly different. I found myself developing some really close friendships with two of the other chiefs there, Evan and Ron. I found myself not just talking about work and the Navy but talking about our families. I found myself genuinely wanting to hang out and get our families together. I found myself asking for advice not just about my career but about my family life. I can honestly say that I felt that I had made some really good friends. I actually find myself hoping we all stay in touch vice just waiting for our paths to cross again. This is mostly surprising because I am kind of that anti-making friends person. I genuinely felt sad that I was transferring and moving on to another state. I also found myself feeling like I should say a little something before leaving on my last day of work. I mistakenly followed this impulse and got the following response from my buddies, "What are you going to cry??" and "Don't worry, whatever you do you are going to fail". That is true friendship right there.

Maybe as I am getting older I am getting a little bit wiser and willing to accept friendships. Maybe grumpy old man is not necessarily the lifestyle for me. So kids, you don't necessarily have to get out of my yard but you better be willing to listen to my boring Navy stories (and mowing the yard every once in a while wouldn't hurt either).

The boy and girl who cried....

2010-07-05T10:35:00.000-04:00

HEART ATTACK!!! While I know it is not exactly appropriate to fake a heart attack (unless as a last resort to get out a sticky situation or awkward moment) I do often find humor or attempt to generate humor in the oddest ways. I admit (acceptance is the first step right?) that my sense of humor can be a bit strange at times but as far I am concerned if I get a smile, laugh, or head shake then I have been at least somewhat successful in brightening up someone's day.

So an ongoing.. joke? prank? way of driving my wife crazy? I have is any time I have indigestion or heart burn I pull the old "Ohhh... It's the big one!!!" while clutching my chest. My way of thinking is that I am young enough that I can pull this off without worry of a real heart attack hitting with my wife thinking that I am just messing around (apparently my performance is Oscar winning) but it definitely upsets her that I do this (don't worry.. it's a loving kind of upset). I tend to walk that fine line of amusing my wife and driving her nuts with most the time teetering on the amusing side.
One day my wife and I were sitting on the couch relaxing. Maddie was on the floor playing with her toys when all of the sudden she stands up, clutches her chest, and says "Ohh... It's the big one!!!". Completely out of the blue, no prompting, and I hadn't even recently done this to Amanda. Both of us cracked up (apparently Maddie can do this without a scolding).

While there is a lot of things that Maddie could pick up from me that are less than desirable, I think I can live with her assimilating my sense of humor and flair for dramatics. Though this may be a different story some day when I am called for a parent-teacher conference to explain why I taught my daughter to fake a heart attack during a math test (I guarantee Amanda will leave this completely up to me to explain... eye roll included).

Happy Birthday Amanda - From Etsy and Rumba with Love

2010-07-02T08:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Baby Girl!!!

So my lovely wife's birthday has rolled around again ( July 2nd?? 3rd?? 2nd??? just kidding) and began again the process last month of finding the perfect gift.

So as a guy I can tell you there is nothing more challenging that finding my wife the perfect gift. If your significant other/better half is anything like my wife when it comes to the question of what to get for their special day you usually get the "I don't want anything.. just your love". Setup? Yeah that's what I'm thinking too. So begins the search for the perfect gift.
This is about the time that two of the greatest creations ever to grace the interwebs come to the rescue - Amazon Wishlist and Etsy.

Amazon Wishlist is great because if gives you the chance to create an online wishlist that is accessible by friends and family. All it takes is creating an amazon account, start browsing items from Amazon, and then as you find items you like, just add them to your wishlist. Additionally, Amazon has also provided the ability to add items not just from Amazon but from other websites via the Amazon Universal Wis hlist. Amazon provides a browser add-on via their web site that goes on the toolbar. As you are browsing the interwebs and see an item you like, just click the "Add to Wish List" button and the item is added to your Amazon wish list. My wife, my daughter, and I each have a wish list setup and we are gradually getting the rest of the family set up. Definitely takes the guess work out of shopping for gifts.

Now Etsy is really where the hunt for that special gift and the earning of brownie points with your significant other really comes into play. If you have never heard of Etsy, it is probably the best creation ever for that person that loves crafts and art. Etsy is a web site focused on handmade or vintage items as well as art and craft supplies. I was actually first introduced to Etsy via my wife's Amazon Wishlist. It is really amazing the stuff you can find here and in a lot of cases items can be personalized. I can't tell you the number of personalized jewelry pieces I've gotten for Amanda for a crazy reasonable price that she wears more than stuff I spent hundreds of dollars on (win.. win.. more beer, video game, and lego money - legos for Maddie of course).

So you ask, what did I get my wife this year for her birthday? Feast your eyes on these wonderful gifts.

"from the heart" print by vol25

"love happens" print by vol25

So the first two are part of the "Lovestruck Robots" Print set by vol25 including "love happens" and "from the heart" prints. This is based on an inside joke between my wife and I (basically she thinks I'm some kind of robot.. and not even the cool cylon type).

Grapesicle Rumba watch by Rumbatime

The last item is a Original Collection Grapesicle watch by Rumbatime. I was originally introduced to this series by my wife on a giveaway that she was doing on her blog. I ended up actually buying a watch for me and for her. Probably the most comfortable watch I have ever worn and I definitely like the look.

So next time you are down to the wire for that special day you forgot about, remember there are some resources out that can keep you out of the fire and looking like the best husband ever (that's my night job). Plus just because you put that 52+" LCD HDTV on your wishlist doesn't mean your wife has to get it for you but it definitely plants the seed for when you little angel child puts a toy lightsaber through your 52-" CRT SDTV.

Sweet Princess or Maniacal Genius?

2010-06-28T20:14:00.000-04:00

So there is no doubt in mine and my wife's minds that Maddie is just the sweetest little girl but I often have to remind myself that she is her father's daughter (my wife reminds me quite a bit).

My most recent reminder that my daughter does and will most likely have me wrapped around her little finger happened the other day.

I am getting ready to transfer to a new command (back to sea.. um not really I'm going to a new construction submarine.. wifey is super happy) and as part of that my family has to get certain stuff in order. I was fortunate enough to meet up with Amanda and Maddie during the work day to get my wife's military ID updated and they both met me at the ID office. We got the task done (Amanda it wouldn't have been such a mug shot if you would have just showed your beautiful smile) and I had another errand to run separately so gave kisses and went on my way.

After I got back to my car I found that my wonderful wife and daughter had left me a note. Just a simple note from Mommy and Maddie. Super sweet and definitely made my day but wait... not yet the break your heart moment.

So I get home that night and Maddie is lovey dubby and talkative (usually I have to beg for a kiss or hug when I'm leaving for work). We actually got some game time with her favorite game Club Penguin where she was giving me kisses on the cheek every time I got her coins (trend here?).

A little later Maddie and I were sitting at the kitchen table when all of the sudden she reaches over, puts her hands on my cheeks, says "Daddy I'm really happy you liked your note", and then leans over and gives me a kiss on the cheek. Daddy is mush in Maddie's hands. She probably could have asked for a pony right then and there.

And so begins the struggle not to fold at every whim but to still make sure my little princess is happy (I know Amanda will keep me in check.. though I pretty much already fold to her whims so there is probably no hope for me).

Down time for Geeky Dad - Modern Warfare 2

2010-06-26T19:49:00.000-04:00

So for my first official blog post my thoughts are to touch on some familiar ground or in this case couch cushion and controller (and fine beer - sorry I was thirsty).

So with the big family move coming up I find myself busy but still looking for that opportunity to relax - what better way to relax than getting my butt kicked by kids on XBOX Live.

Usually I am jumping from game to game (and game system to game system) looking for my next big video game buy via Gamefly but I have found some comfort lately in some familiar online multiplayer gaming with

Modern Warfare 2 by Infinity Ward (XBOX 360)

(Never heard of Gamefly? Think of Netflix with video games - don't know what Netflix is? Then get click happy on these links, your missing out)

For those of you not familiar with Modern Warfare 2 by Infinity Ward your missing out on a solid FPS that is the winner of multiple Game of the Year awards.

You'll find the single player storyline is pretty decent but it is the online multiplayer content where this game really excels (I spent a week busting through the main story and haven't been back since). I spend at least a couple of nights a week for about an hour or so (remember responsible playing kids) getting my FPS fix. The game play is fun and engaging though the matchmaking sometimes can be a bit frustrating. Sometimes you find one team a little top heavy with experienced players while the other team is caught trying to escape a spawn point (I always think something is up when I'm pulling double digits for kills and single digits for deaths but hey I'm the slacker who just Prestiged for the first time).

The achievements and leveling/reward system (titles, cool equipment and weapons) also add to to the overall gaming experience. I primarily play most of my games on the XBOX 360 because of the achievement system (though exclusive game titles plays a lot into that too - sorry Blu-Ray Player um I mean PS3) though I am not exactly an achievement monger. I do find myself actually making an attempt to get some of the more obscure achievements or titles (hey what other game awards you the "WARGASM" or "MY LITTLE PWNY" title??) and definitely making the extra effort to use a weapon configuration or equipment just to get something cooler or better.

So if you haven't had a chance to try Modern Warfare 2 I highly recommend it or if you have it and just haven't picked it up in a while feel free to dust off that disc and play a match or two. Either way hope to see you out there in death match play land.

And so it begins....

2010-06-26T10:14:00.000-04:00

So my wife has been hosting a successful Blog - Funny Days with Mommy and Maddie for sometime now and I thought, I have a lot of interesting things to say so why not give it a try on my end.

** DISCLAIMER **

When I say interesting this is based on my inference from my wife about how special I am, though I think her understanding and my understanding of special may vary (if not then my one feeling should be hurt but eehh).

Expect to see a little bit of gadgets, video games, and Star Wars but most of all expect to see a geeky guy trying pull off being a Husband, Dad, and Chief Petty Officer in the USN.