Category: Blog Posts

Hungary

Good morning, it is Sunday and I slept in late by design. I cant go out to do any activities because I have to go until Tuesday without food. As I have written before, my ex wife has leached onto my paychecks and now I have another summit to cross. It seems that the people that I have a debt with (Volkswagen) have found a way to get their money no matter what. Some how they have been able to get a direct withdrawal from my account even though I have no money in it.

As you know I have decided to let the car go and at any moment they could come looking for the car to repossess. That’s not the case, they got their money and they are now happy and will do it again next month.

My bank is not happy with this arrangement and are treating it as if I have been going around writing bad checks. I have 30 days to get my -$500.00 balance back to zero or I face criminal charges. isn’t this funny, I could go to jail for being poor.

So I sit here paralyzed with hunger because my bank account has been frozen and I have nothing for cash. I cant believe that it has seemed to come to this. Even though things are looking up ka has decided to punish me more and more.

I pose this question and maybe you can help me figure it out. What did I do wrong to deserve this bad luck? Is it my decision to go to Montana? Is it the fact that I should have not betrayed my friends in Plattsburgh by moving out here? Is it because I am … was a dead beat father while I was going through school and before that? What is it? Am I trying to have to much fun in between miseries?

January 16, 2005
No Breakfast, Just Dreams
Ever had one of those mornings where you’re out of milk for your porridge and butter’s just a distant memory? Yeah, that was my morning. Yet, I’m surprisingly upbeat, ready to dive into the day. The plan? Guzzle down a smoothie and grab Mom’s computer before heading to work.

Yesterday marked my full-day debut at the new job. It’s thrilling, but boy, do I get sidetracked easily! My main goal? To develop this innovative interview server. There’s a part of me itching to just chill and go with the flow, but my Connecticut roots whisper, “Stay focused!”

Tonight, the local art museum is hosting a shindig. I’m on a mission to convince a buddy to join me in the artistic revelry. Wish me luck, and hey, take care!

Resources to Enhance Your Day
1. Smoothie Recipes for a Quick Start: Because sometimes breakfast is a liquid affair.
2. Staying Focused at Work: Tips to keep the distractions at bay.
3. The Art of Connecticut: Explore the artistic side of Connecticut.
4. Upcoming Events at the Art Museum: Don’t miss out on the next art festivity.
5. How to Invite Friends for an Event: Convince your friends to join in on the fun.
January 14, 2005
Snowy Mornings, Ski Trails, and New Beginnings at MARS Stout

Woke up to a fresh blanket of snow today, and the forecast says it’s only going to get colder and clearer. Perfect for dusting off the camera for some weekend magic.

Missoula’s love for mountain biking? That’s just the tip of the iceberg. Cross-country skiing here is like the Merit Parkway’s post-work traffic – but on snow! For the uninitiated, that’s in Connecticut.

Big day today – first official full-timer at MARS Stout, yet not quite ‘official’. Lunch decisions are back on the menu after an 8-month hiatus. Got my own desk and a phone. Feels like the first day of school, but better.

Here’s to long days and pleasant nights, my friends! 🌨️🎿🍴📞

January 13, 2005
Going Full Time

I was informed today that starting tomorrow I will be going full time. That is good news. At least I can break even now. My next goal is to become a regular employee. Right now I work for Work Force, a temp agencie. In a couple weeks I am eligable to have my contract bought out by MARS Stout. I hope they do, and that is my next goal. I just got back from snow shoeing. It was awesome and the snow was falling heavily. Almost got lost a couple of times. Sounds like the weather out East is like a yo yo. I am glad we don’t have that this year. I hate it when it gets wet. It got to 32 degrees today so that is our heat wave I guess. Ok, I know what a cord of wood is but what is a face cord? Does any one know?

January 12, 2005
Its Snowing Again :)

Hi all, I just added some pics in my gallery, feel free to rate and comment. I also just added a new link in my Missoula Section. It is a link to the Big Sky Film Festival which is happening next month.

Good morning from my apartment in Missoula. I hope all my freinds and every one else is having a good day. I hope eveyone is getting better from the Christmas Cold everyone seems to have at work.

Yesterday I couldnt get the server back up and running at work so I was a little frusturated. I didnt get any sleep last night so I better keep my comments to a minimum to avoid the tendancy to get all negative and down in the dumps.

On the bright side it is snowing off and on still and the skiing gets better and better. I hope to sneek out to the Rat tonight although I promised Marcy that we would go sno shoeing. But dogs dont understand wht yo say, right?

Well I better prepair for work and get a couple things done like an appointment to get my oil changed and figure out how to pay a credit card payment.

Take care and signing off from Missoula Montana.

January 12, 2005
Laundry This Morning
Laundry Mondays and Uphill Rides

Monday mornings have a charm of their own, don’t they? Today’s no different – it’s laundry day! But let’s rewind a bit. Yesterday was epic, skiing into the ‘Rat’ (I’ll let you fill in the blanks on that one). Sure, I’m feeling every muscle in my body today, but it’s a good kind of sore.

Breakfast was a real treat this morning. I’m talking actual food, not just coffee and a wish. It’s like I’ve been supercharged – ready to tackle the day, one laundry load at a time.

Now, let’s get a bit real. Finances are… let’s say, tight. My ex has laid claim to a chunk of my already modest paycheck. Rent’s looming large, and the pantry’s looking rather bare. So, what’s a person to do? Hello, credit cards! Seems like they’ll be my lifeline for a bit. I’m riding the wave straight to bankruptcy town – a dubious goal, but hey, you gotta have one, right?

But it’s not all doom and gloom. I’ve got my trusty road bike, and I’m ready to pedal my way to work every day. The route? A breezy 2.36 miles one way, complete with a 59.5-foot elevation gain. That’s a total of 4.72 miles round trip. And the best part? It’s all at a “Easy Temp” (whatever that means!). So, here’s to turning pedals, counting pennies, and finding joy in the little things – like a basket of freshly laundered clothes.

Resources to Enhance Your Day:
1. Budgeting for Beginners: Navigating tight finances with smart budgeting tips.
2. Cycling Fitness: Get the most out of your daily bike commute with these fitness tips.
3. Laundry Hacks: Because even laundry can be an art form.
4. Credit Management: Understanding credit and how to use it wisely (or, how to avoid the bankruptcy route).
5. Local Ski Trails: For those days when you need to escape into the wilderness and shred some slopes.
January 10, 2005
Eddie Dies (Dark Tower Story)
A Day of Reflections and Ski Trails

Hello, everyone! Just a quick update before bedtime. Today was a mix of emotions and adventures – quite the rollercoaster, if I may say.

The day kicked off with a refreshing Marcy Walk. It’s always rejuvenating, starting the day with nature’s embrace. I even snapped a photo of the beetle parked as Marcy enjoyed her energetic run. Capturing those little moments always adds a bit of joy to my day.

But the real journey today was through the audio realms of the ‘Dark Tower’ story. It’s amazing how attached we become to characters in books. Eddie’s death hit me hard. It was an emotional moment, and yes, there were tears. It’s strange, I was almost convinced it would be Roland meeting his end at the hands of his spider son. Stories, they surprise us in the most unexpected ways.

In the evening, I went skiing in the Rat – what a beautiful experience! The tranquility of skiing under the open sky, especially as dusk falls, is something I can’t quite put into words. I pushed myself further than usual, almost to the Franklin Bridge, making it a round trip of over 10 miles. That’s a lot of skiing!

As I wrap up this blog and get ready for bed, I’m eager to dive into another installment of the ‘Dark Tower.’ The adventures never end, do they?

Resources to Enhance Your Day:
Does a book or story ever bring you to tears? Share your experiences in the comments!
January 9, 2005
Get Off Your Ass
Tomorrow’s Promise: A Laundry Day Prelude to Ski Slopes

It’s a chilly January 8, 2005. You’re lounging in your cozy corner, your favorite spot in the house, wrapped in the warmth of habitual comfort. But there’s a voice, a little nudge from within, whispering, “Get off your ass!” It’s not just a call to action; it’s a battle cry against the inertia that’s settled around you like a thick blanket.

Logging off, the hardest step, is like breaking free from quicksand. It’s a triumph in itself. The screen goes dark, and suddenly, the world seems a bit brighter, a bit more inviting. You decide to tackle something simple yet productive – laundry. It’s not just about cleaning clothes; it’s about cleansing your mindset, preparing for what’s ahead. As the washing machine hums, you find your thoughts drifting to the snow-covered slopes, untouched and waiting.

The thought of skiing tomorrow sparks a flicker of excitement. It’s not just about the thrill of gliding down snowy hills; it’s about proving to yourself that today’s mundane tasks are stepping stones to tomorrow’s adventures. Each sock paired, each shirt folded, brings you closer to the crisp mountain air and the exhilarating freedom of skiing.

But will tomorrow be different? That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? It’s easy to get bogged down by the routine, to let today’s laundry be tomorrow’s excuse. But here’s the thing – every small step you take today is a promise to yourself for a better tomorrow. The laundry, mundane as it seems, is your commitment to breaking the cycle, to making each day a bit more vibrant than the last.

So, as you sort through the whites and colors, think of it as sorting your thoughts, preparing for the adventures that lie ahead. Remember, the difference in your tomorrow starts with what you do today. Let this laundry day be the prelude to a thrilling skiing escapade, a reminder that even the smallest tasks can lead to the most exhilarating experiences.

And who knows, maybe as you’re out there on the slopes, feeling the rush of cold air against your face, you’ll look back at today’s laundry with a smile, knowing it was the first step towards this moment of joy and freedom.

Resources to Enhance Your Day:
January 8, 2005
Ho Hum, It is Saturday
The Saturday Conundrum: Sun’s Out, Spirits Down?

Oh, what a conundrum Saturdays can bring! Picture this: a bright sun, a pleasant 23-degree day, yet here I am, struggling to get out of the house. Puzzling, right? But let’s dive into this quirky Saturday scenario.

The first suspect in this mystery? My eating habits. Ever heard of a diet that’s almost entirely salami, bread, and mustard? Not exactly the breakfast of champions, but it’s what I’ve got. The reason behind this culinary minimalism is a tight budget. Earning a humble $500 a month with rent gobbling up nearly all of it leaves me with a grand budget of $5 a week for food. Thank goodness for Mike, my boss, who occasionally chips in with some much-needed sustenance. Without his help, let’s just say I’d be even more acquainted with my mustard jar.

But hey, let’s not dwell too long in the valley of negatives. There’s a bright side to this – quite literally! The sun’s up, and that’s something to celebrate, isn’t it? Maybe the simple act of acknowledging the sunshine is the nudge I need to shake off the indoor blues.

So, what’s the takeaway from this? Sometimes, it’s the small joys – like a sunny day – that can lift our spirits, even when the chips are down (or in my case, when the salami is thin). It’s about finding that silver lining, or in today’s case, that golden ray of sun.

Resources to Enhance Your Day:
1. Budget-Friendly Meal Ideas: Savvy Eating on a Shoestring
2. Mood-Boosting Tips: Lifting Spirits, One Sunray at a Time
3. Financial Management Guides: Making Cents of Your Dollars
4. Affordable Housing Resources: Home Sweet Affordable Home
5. Community Support Forums: Together We Thrive
So, let’s embrace the day, even if it starts with salami and mustard, and remember, every sunny morning is a chance for a brighter day!
January 8, 2005
Virus Today

I hope I didn’t pass on a virus I received from montanajobs.net. I got an email with an advertisement, and as I deleted it, my Thunderbird email application went berserk. It ran through my news feeds account and blitzed them all. Before it could spread, I re-installed it and deleted my old account. I found the bug files and deleted them as well.

With that time wasted, I don’t have much more to say. I’ll blog last night’s offline entries and get back offline in case someone calls for an adventure. Yesterday, Marcy and I scouted out Lolo Peak and hiked at the Blue Mountain Rec. Area.

Last Night 12:53 AM, I am up making hot cocoa and toast. I have thoughts of making BHL run again. I need a community like the one I had with my online hockey league. I want to use my new skills with PHP, XML, and XSL to create a self-running BHL that would activate when someone visited. It would thrive on its visitors. This is just a thought, and now that my water is boiling, I must run.

Last Night 12:58 AM, now a second thought. I must make a list and execute. I need to get my bike fixed and engage in those outdoor activities I’ve dreamed of, which is why I moved to Missoula.

I am torn between diving deep into the realm of programming and building my little Lego Dougans, and soaring free in the mountains. Oh, the discord of choices!

January 2, 2005
Good Morning and Happy New Year
Waking up with a sprained wrist is no joke, especially when it throws a wrench in your adventurous plans for Sheep Mountain. It’s like your body decided to party a bit too hard without your permission. And speaking of parties, how about that hike last night? If you’re anything like me, that’s the kind of New Year’s celebration that leaves you feeling more like a mountain goat than a party animal.

But let’s switch gears and talk about Monte, the University of Montana’s mascot. This furry, wise-cracking, break-dancing bear is about to snag the Capital One Mascot of the Year award for the second time! That’s right, Monte isn’t just a regular bear; he’s a cool bear. Winning the nation’s top collegiate mascot title in 2002 and now aiming for a repeat performance, Monte is proving that mascots are more than just sideline entertainment. They’re furry symbols of school spirit and tenacity.

Now, let’s take a moment to appreciate this: A dancing bear mascot is beating the competition not once, but twice. That’s like finding out your goofy uncle is actually a world salsa dancing champion. It’s unexpected, a little bizarre, but totally awesome. Monte is essentially showing the world that even in the realm of mascots, under-bears can come out on top.

As you nurse that sprained wrist and contemplate your next adventure, remember Monte’s unstoppable spirit. Maybe take a leaf out of his book: a bit of humor, a dance move or two, and an attitude that says, “I’m here to win.” Who knows, maybe next year you’ll be hiking Sheep Mountain with a mascot of your own. Just make sure it dances!

Resources to Enhance Your Day:
1. Sheep Mountain Adventure Guide: Explore Sheep Mountain – Find the best trails and prepare for your next hike.
2. Mascot Mania: The World of Collegiate Mascots – Dive into the world of college mascots and their history.
3. Sprained Wrist Care: Healthline – Wrist Sprain – Tips on how to care for a sprained wrist.
4. Monte’s Mascot Tips: University of Montana Athletics – Learn more about Monte and his mascot antics.
5. Stretching and Recovery: Yoga for Hikers – Yoga poses perfect for post-hike recovery.
January 1, 2005
Hiking In The New Year
Fireworks on the Frosty Summit: A New Year’s Adventure on Mt. Sentinel

New Year’s Eve, 2004 – The clock struck 10 PM, and there I was, cozied up in my warm, snug home. But as fate would have it, my phone buzzed with a daring proposal from my friend Cory. “Let’s hike Mt. Sentinel and welcome 2005 from the summit!” he suggested. The idea was wild, almost absurd, but the thrill of adventure beckoned, and I found myself saying, “Let’s do it!”

Preparations were a flurry of activity. We gathered our gear, bundled up in our warmest clothes, and set out into the crisp, starlit night. The temperature was a frigid 15 degrees, and the winds, oh, they howled at 30 to 40 mph, making it feel like we were embarking on an expedition to Everest!

As we began our ascent, the world around us was eerily silent, save for the roaring wind and the crunch of snow under our boots. With each step, the city lights dwindled, giving way to a vast, starry sky. Our breaths formed icy clouds in the air, and the cold bit at our cheeks, but the excitement of the adventure kept our spirits high.

Reaching the summit was nothing short of magical. There we were, standing at the top of the world (or so it felt), with the winds whipping around us, making the cold almost unbearable. But the view! The view was spectacular. Below us, the city was a sea of twinkling lights, a stark contrast to the dark, vast wilderness around us.

Then, as the clock neared midnight, the city erupted in a symphony of lights and colors. Fireworks! From our lofty perch on Sentinel Gulch, we watched in awe as the fireworks painted the night sky in vibrant hues of red, green, and gold. It was a surreal moment, one that made us feel both insignificant and immensely alive.

The descent was a journey of its own, filled with laughter, occasional slips in the snow, and a sense of accomplishment that comes only from doing something spontaneous and a little crazy.

As I sit here, typing my first blog post of 2005, I can’t help but feel grateful for friends like Cory who push me out of my comfort zone, for the beauty of nature that never ceases to amaze, and for the adventures that await in the year ahead.

Resources to Enhance Your Day:
1. Mt. Sentinel Trail Guide – Plan your own adventure with this detailed guide.
2. Cold Weather Hiking Tips – Stay safe and warm on your winter hikes.
3. Firework Photography Tips – Capture the beauty of fireworks on your next hike.
4. Adventure Blogs – Get inspired by stories from fellow adventurers.
5. Local Weather Forecast – Always be prepared by checking the weather before your hike.
January 1, 2005
Mornin All

Good morning, this last day of the year. Doin breakfast of steak, potatoes, and eggs (all dontated, thanks all). A little site tweakage this morning. What do you think. Today I will work on LocoJoe.net and then hopefully get in a hike before tonights festivities.

10:33 AM: Hello from the Liquid Planet. I wanted to work at the Library but they are closed today. Damn holidays … I cant pay the rent this month because of all these holidays. Go to work you lazy bastards…..

2:55 PM: Well it is time I go home. I got some work done at LocoJoe.net I am thinking of going hiking up Sentinel Ridge and then come back down the Helgat Canyon Trail then back on the Kim Williams Trail. HAPPY NEW YEARS

Last Night: Just got back from tonights hike up Mount Sentinel. Marcy got a little out of hand but overall it was a fun time. The powdery stuff was on top of icy stuff making the trek up not so much fun. It took me a entire hour to just get to the trees. The trees where snow covered and beautiful. Comming down I boot skiied all the way down. The sights were beautiful and the night was very visable. I almost forgot it was night. I would not recomend doing this untill we get more snow or the stuff we do have melts a little and freezes. Its just too slipery now.Ok

December 31, 2004
Friends and Family Online
Frosty Hikes and Tech Hiccups: A Day in the Life

Morning Frost and Family Woes

The day kicked off with a bit of family drama. Mom’s computer decided it had enough and just quit – seems like a fan issue. It’s tough feeling helpless when tech troubles strike, especially when it’s your mom’s. To top it off, my sister couldn’t join our planned meeting; her kids were under the weather. It’s true what they say: when it rains, it pours!

A Hike Like No Other

But hey, life always has a silver lining. Tonight’s hike was nothing short of magical. The frosty air and bright moonlight meant no headlamp was needed. I experienced the atmospheric layers in full force – hot, then cold, then just right. And the frost-coated plants at 5,000 feet? Simply stunning.

Work and More Work

Work was its usual mix of highs and lows. I spent some time on LocoJoe.net, and wrapped up at MARS. A bit of a hiccup with some JavaScript on an xsl page had me frustrated, but nothing a good hike couldn’t fix!

Unexpected Outages and Snowy Delights

Mid-morning brought an unexpected outage, but I’m on it – looking for a reliable hosting option in Missoula to avoid future disruptions. By noon, the mood had lifted thanks to a surprise snowfall and the delicious aroma of chicken stew slow-cooking at work. Sometimes, it’s the little things that make a day better.

Evening Plans: Snow and Fun

Ending the day at work without much progress isn’t ideal, but the prospect of playing in the snow at Sentinel Gulch has me excited. There’s something about sliding down a snowy hill that makes all the day’s troubles seem far away.

Resources to Enhance Your Day
1. Tech Support for Beginners: A helpful guide for dealing with common computer issues like a malfunctioning fan.
2. Trail Hiking Tips: Advice on hiking in different weather conditions, including frosty nights.
3. The JavaScript Guide: For those tricky moments when your code just won’t cooperate.
4. Missoula Hosting Solutions: Find reliable local hosting options to avoid frustrating outages.
5. Snowshoeing Adventures: Explore the best trails for a snowy escapade.
Remember, no matter how chaotic your day gets, there’s always a way to find joy and a warm bowl of stew waiting somewhere!
December 29, 2004
Getting Off Work
Racing Against Time

Just clocked out from work, and boy, am I ready to hit the hay! But sleep’s a luxury I’ll have to earn. My morning was a blur of missed opportunities, and I’m betting tomorrow won’t give me a break. Bright and early, I start at Liquid Planet (or the library, depending on where fate lands me). Then, it’s off to MARS by noon to juggle my part-time gig. My life’s a jigsaw puzzle, and I’m still hunting for the missing pieces.

Tonight’s plan? Marcy and I are braving the Water Works Hill Run. It’s our little ritual to keep the chaos at bay. These runs are more than just exercise; they’re my therapy, my slice of sanity in a topsy-turvy world.

So, see ya, minyata! Here’s to hoping tomorrow brings a little more peace and a lot more sleep.

Resources to Enhance Your Day:
December 28, 2004
Just Woke Up
Monday Night Musings and a Mountain Hike

Waking up on the floor is not your typical morning, but hey, when Monday Night Football is on, all bets are off. Picture this: a chilly December 28, 2004 morning, with echoes of game cheers still bouncing around. I’m there, sprawled out, having succumbed to sleep’s embrace right in the middle of the excitement.

To fend off the night’s restlessness, I reach for my trusty player, loading up the latest from Stephen King’s “The Dark Tower” series. Audio books are my nightly escape; they keep my mind from wandering back to the intricate web of projects waiting for me at work. Speaking of which, I adore my job! It’s a blend of taxing challenges and exhilarating breakthroughs, especially when I’m crafting tax relief software.

But yesterday was different. Dipping my toes into something new, I updated a couple of pages for MARS STOUT Inc.’s website – a refreshing change from my usual routine. I tweaked the main page and added some vital virus info. It’s always invigorating to switch gears and tackle public web content.

The highlight of my day? A dusk hike with Marcy in the serene Rattlesnake Wilderness Area. Sure, bringing my dog along during winter isn’t exactly by the book, but we avoided the main trails and embarked on an adventurous ascent straight up the mountain from the parking lot. The view, the crisp air, the thrill – it was all worth it. I’m excited to share this hike with you, along with some long-overdue pictures.

For now, though, it’s time to surrender to sleep’s call once more. Stay tuned for more updates, and good night to the world from my little corner of it.

Resources to Enhance Your Day:
1. Stephen King’s “The Dark Tower” Series: Dive into the mystical world King has woven.
2. Hiking Tips for Beginners: Ready to start your own hiking adventures? Here’s how to begin.
3. NFL Monday Night Football Highlights: Relive the excitement of last night’s game.
4. Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails: Find trails where your furry friend is welcome.
5. MARS STOUT Inc.: Check out the company making waves in software development.
December 28, 2004
Moose Poop Pie

Good morning. The sun is coming up here in Missoula and I have sat down to breakfast including eggs, hash-browns, and toast. I am on the verge of happiness but a little concerned that I sat around all weekend.

I have a question; how do you de-startch potatoes? Every time I make hash browns, they become this gluey mess.

Since Pologra is not adventuring into the Moose Poop Pie, I will lead the way by saying that it is really rich and good. It is best with Ice cream and kalua(?). The pie is like a brownie that has a chewy and crusty top but thick, gluey, and very chocolaty center. It does look like poop, but tastes awesome.

Pologra, your day sounds so relaxing. I could be there for sure. I cant wait to one day have a cabin in the woods with a crackling fire and the pleasures of the pallet that you speak of.

December 27, 2004
Ho Hum, The Day Is A Gun!

Before we flash back to this morning I just wanted to post a picture that my friend Julie took at her place up in Alaska. Damn, I am jelous of all the snow. I got numerous pictures that just are so great. It looked like they had a jolly ol time. Miss you Julie!

I am happy to say that I am writing this from the Liquid Planet this morning. I thought I would never see this place again after my near miss with moving away due to economic hardships. I have to push out this blog before my battery runs out as it is at 9% and falling. I spent too much time playing I guess.

Christmas at my friend Corey's parent's house was great. He has great parents and his brother and his girlfriend are awesome. It was truly a good time

… fast forward one half hour later, I am now at home. My battery indeed, did run out. I just finished off some left overs from yesterdays swaray and it was fabulous. So where am I going today? Well, after some thought

… fast forward to 7PM. Well, I am going to be pretty upset with myself. I decided to finish my blog that was interrupted downtown by my lack of battery charge. The next thing I know I am finishing up a coding project for my web site. What the hell happened, I don't know. Well I better post this, check my emails, then get out for a night hike at the least. I am really a loser … but then, i know that December is the hardest month for everyone when it comes to motivation.

On a good note, i get to go to work tomorrow. Yippee!

December 26, 2004