Stranded, But Not Lost

Dammit!  This is all I needed.  Feeling a little dizzy, I felt confused as to what had actually happened.  The wheel came off of the wagon, and the impact of the frame as it touched ground threw me into the air.  The wagon flipped over, releasing my two horses, and they vanished into the distance.  I sat there a moment and just looked around at the view before me.  In front of me was flat land as far as I could see, vast grassy fields flowing with the wind.  I stood, dusted myself off, and turned around.  In the background I witnessed quite a beautiful sight, and I just stood there taking it all into my mind.  Snow covered mountains reached high into the most amazing blue sky I had ever seen.  There was a structure in the distance, a house, or maybe an old barn.  I could see there was a fence surrounding the structure, but no sign of life could be seen.  I noticed a small stream running behind the house, so at least I knew I would have access to water.  It was only a couple of hours before sundown, so I decided to move toward the barn or whatever it was; at least it may serve as a shelter during the night.  I picked up my hat from the ground, and began walking toward the unknown.  I did think to check to see if the pouch was still tied to my belt.  This is where I kept my money, which was quite a bit at the time from some recent transactions in the city.  I felt relieved to know I had not lost it, although, I am not sure what good money will do me here, I arrived in about fifteen minutes, and just stood there looking at what was before me.  I stepped over the wooden fence and walked to the door, listening to possibly hear a voice from inside.  I really did not believe anyone to be there, but I knew what could happen upon trespassing on the land of another, especially this far from the city.  I finally opened the door, having to force it open because of its age and lack of use.  It was obvious that no one had been here for quite a while.  Dust covered the wooden table and chairs, and cobwebs were everywhere.  I was relieved to see it had actually been a living quarters rather than just a barn.  The structure seemed to be stable, although it was obvious that some repair was needed.  In the corner was a kitchen area with a wood stove, and there were pots and dishes still scattered all over the area.  In the opposite corner of the room was a bed.  It was in pretty bad shape, but in my exhausted condition, it looked pretty damned good. On the table beside the bed was an oil lamp, and under the table, I saw extra oil.  This was a welcome sight, knowing that at least I would have light.  There was a fireplace, which would help with the cold nights, however many I may be facing here.  I looked out the door, and was reminded that the night was quickly approaching, and I needed to go sift through the remains of the wagon and see what I could use.  I needed to at least find my rifles, since I really did not know where I was or who may own the land.  My search was quick and successful, and I did manage to get back before the sun vanished behind the mountains.  I found both of my rifles, the pouch that contained extra shells, coffee, my pocketknife, two bottles of whiskey, and extra clothes.  I had been traveling for days, so I had extra supplies with me.  I decided to look again tomorrow for additional findings.  Since it was almost dark, I grabbed the lamp, lit it and placed it on the table by the window.  I grabbed a pot from the top of the stove and walked outside, and in just minutes, was at the stream.  The water was cold, and I immediately splashed some on my face.  It was quite refreshing.  I rinsed the pot out, filled it, and indulged myself in a quick drink.  I refilled the pot and headed back toward the house, stopping along the way to gather wood for the stove.  As soon as got inside, I placed the wood into the stove, lit it, and in just a few minutes was drinking a cup of coffee.  It was dark now, and the day had taken its toll on me.  I poured another cup of coffee, grabbed the lamp, and moved over to the bed.  I struggled, but finally removed my boots.  I had no more energy.  I took a final sip of coffee, sat the cup on the table beside the bed, blew out the lamp, and fell back onto the bed.  In only a few minutes, I was in a deep sleep.

I was awakened the next morning by a rustling sound outside.  I grabbed my rifle and opened the door and walked outside.  A pack of wolves were between the stream and the house, running back and forth in a playful manner.  They were a beautiful group of animals, but I know I cannot have wolves hanging around.  It is just not safe.  I fired my rifle into the air, and they scattered and ran toward the mountains.  I walked back into the house, put some wood in the stove, lit it, and made some coffee.  I cleaned up the house a little as the coffee made, then sat at the table and had two cups in only a matter of minutes. 

I decided to walk back to where the wagon had flipped and see what else I could find.  Within about an hour, I had much of what would help me while stranded here in the middle of nowhere.  I found my ax, which would certainly come in handy with chopping wood for the fireplace and the stove.  I had noticed while at the stream that there were several recently fallen trees, so I knew I would have a supply of wood.  I also found one of my small animal traps, and as soon as I saw it, I began thinking of rabbits and squirrels.  I had not eaten in almost two days.  I found a piece of flint which would be a must for starting my fires.  I also found a few tools, a hammer, a pry bar, and an anvil.  I really had no idea as to how long I would be here, so anything I found that would help me with my daily life made me feel better. 

After all the running back and forth gathering what I could find from the wagon, I was all hot and sweaty and tired.  The stream was sounding pretty good to me at this point.  I walked down to the stream and sat down on a tree stump near the water.  I removed my boots, stripped off my clothes and slowly stepped into the icy water.  The water hurt and felt good at the same time, and it certainly woke me up.  I walked to the center of the stream, and found myself in water about waist deep.  I squatted so my body was completely submerged into the water, and then stood up, shaking my head side to side to sling the water out of my hair.  I clumsily walked to the edge of the water and sat down and just felt as though the tension was being removed from my body and mind.

After a few minutes, I climbed out of the water, got dressed and started walking back to the house.  Movement in the distance caught my attention.  It was too far off to see clearly, but I could tell it was a wagon being pulled by two horses, with a third horse being led from behind the wagon.  It was heading toward me, so the first thing I knew to do was to get my rifle and just wait.  As the wagon got closer, I could see it was a woman, alone, and it became clear that she was coming to the house.  I walked to the front of the house and waited her arrival.  As she got closer and closer, I looked at her and wondered what her story was.  She was beautiful, long dark hair, and even though she was sitting, I could tell she was tall for a woman.  She pulled on the reigns for the horses to stop.  She just looked at me for a moment, then smiled and said hi.  I spoke and she interrupted me and asked why I was on her property.  I told her my story of the wagon losing a wheel and throwing me.  Then, I smiled and asked her what she was doing with my horse.  I guess the fact that both of us had something belonging to the other eased the tension, and she smiled again and told me she had found the horse about five miles back.  I walked to her wagon, extended my hand to her, and helped her down.  I told her that I was sorry for intruding on her land, but I really had no choice with my situation.  She said she understood, but that we would have to talk about what would happen, because she had intentions of staying at the house permanently, not just stopping by.  I told her to go inside and sit, and I went to the stream to get her some fresh water.

When I got back, she was loading wood into the fireplace. I poured her a cup of water, told her to sit down and I would get the fire started.  After a few minutes, the fire was roaring, and I sat at the table beside her.  She was the first to speak.  She asked me about the accident, and I explained in detail what happened, and how I had stayed at her place for just the one night.  I was a little pleased that she seemed more concerned as to whether I was hurt, rather than the fact that a stranger was found on her property.  She explained that her husband had been killed about a year ago, and she had not been back since.  She told me that after a year, she felt that she needed to return and start over.  I explained that I was sorry for just assuming it was acceptable for me to just stay the night, but that I really had no other options at the time.  She said that she understood.  I made it clear that I would leave, especially since I had one of my horses back.  I was then surprised to hear her say that I was welcome to stay the night, as long as I was an honorable man, and showed her the respect she deserved.  I thanked her, and I really was not back to full strength and was not ready to move on.  In reality, even though I did not tell her, I had no place to go.  I stood, poured her another cup of water, and told her I would start unloading her wagon. 

I was pleasantly surprised to see as I unloaded her wagon that she had supplies to sustain her for quite a while.  She even had a rooster and two hens, and all I could think about was eating fresh eggs.  After taking everything inside, I went and got her some more water, and I told her I would go chop some wood before it got dark.  I took the horses to the stream so they could get some water, and then brought them back and put them in the fenced area.  After a while, I returned with the wood, left part of it outside and put the rest beside the fireplace.  She had already started the stove and was cooking.  I wondered what she was making, but didn't ask.  I just knew it smelled really good.  I worked with the door until it was easier to open and close, and made it so she would be able to lock it at night.  She seemed thankful for that gesture.  In a little while, we were seated at the table eating from the pot of beans she had cooked.  She had also stewed some potatoes and we had some thin bread she cooked on top of the stove.  About halfway through the meal I told her my name was Nate, and she told me her name was Maria.  In all of the confusion, we had forgotten to even introduce ourselves.  After we ate, she made some coffee, and this time, I had the option of sugar, and it was a little bit of heaven.  As we drank coffee, she came right out and asked me if she could trust me to be respectful of her while I was there.  I gave her my word that I would be a gentleman.  She then proceeded to tell me that she was uncomfortable being alone after all of this time.  She told me that I was welcome to stay there, as long as I did my part to keep up the place.  I then explained that I had no home, and that I have spent the last few years going from town to town, and I just did not want to do that anymore.  So with that, we had an understanding.  She then made it clear that she would sleep in the bed, and that I would have a special place on the floor.  And since I usually slept on the ground, I had no problem at all with the floor.  We had another cup of coffee, talked for a while, and before long, decided it was time to go to sleep.  We were both exhausted.  She climbed into the bed, and I moved to my corner of the room.  She had made me a bed on the floor with quilts, and I was more than comfortable there.

I was awakened in the morning by the smell of coffee.  Maria had been up for hours, and had been to the stream to bathe, gathered wood for the fire, and had made breakfast.  She was quite an independent woman, and I wondered if she had always been, or if this was the result of losing her husband.  She sat with me while I ate my breakfast and drank coffee.  I tried not to make it obvious, but I could not help but stare at her while she was sitting there.  She was really a beautiful woman, and I guess because I am a little more clearly headed than yesterday, I see that more, now.  I finished eating, and then went outside to see what repairs could be done on the property.  I worked the rest of the day, replaced some boards on the fence, built steps for the front door, and made a pen for the chickens.  It was a good day of work, and we were both pleased with the progress.  Marie worked inside, putting up supplies and cleaning.  She also made time to make sure to bring me water all during the day, which to me made me believe she was not uncomfortable with me being there.

Later that night, I had stepped outside to gather some wood, and to make sure the horses had water.  In about fifteen minutes, I returned, and she was sitting on the bed crying.  She did not see me, so I considered going back outside.  I simply was unsure of what I should do.  After a moment, I walked over to the bed and sat down beside her.  She looked up at me, said nothing and rested her head on my chest.  Still, neither of us said a word.  I placed my arms around her and just held her.  I gently lowered her to the bed, removed her shoes, covered her with the quilt, and softly kissed her on the forehead.  Still, without a word being spoken, I walked back outside and sat by the front door.  No words had to be spoken to tell me what was wrong.  Being back here has made her realize that her husband is really gone.  I knew there was nothing to say right now, and because of that, I chose silence.  It is just something that has to happen to her, and I cannot change that, even though I wanted to comfort her.  After a few minutes, I went back inside and walked to her bed to see if she was all right.  She was asleep.  She looked peaceful, and more beautiful than ever.  I put a piece of wood on the fire, and decided to go to sleep, myself.  I blew out the lamp, climbed into my makeshift bed on the floor, and began thinking of how I felt as I watched her cry.  It was not a good feeling.  After a short while, I was in a sound sleep.

There was a lot of silence the next morning, as we sat at the table drinking coffee.  Although I thought I understood her pain, I had never been very good at talking when it came to emotional situations.  So, I just stayed by her side, just in case she did want to talk to me.  She never did, and our conversation was simple and scattered.  I told her that I had to go to town to pick up some supplies, and asked her if she needed anything from town.  She looked at me, with her eyes suddenly wide open, and with a confused look on her face.  She asked me if I was really going to come back, and even though I assured her that I would return, I am not sure she believed me.  I stood and started to the door, and she grabbed my arm.  She said nothing, but threw her arms around me.  I could feel her trembling.  I gave her a gentle hug, and told her that if I say I am coming back, that she can trust me at my word.  I walked outside, hitched the horses to the wagon, filled my leather flasks with water, and came back inside.  I grabbed the rifles that were leaning against the wall, and walked over to the table and sat down.  I put shells in both, and looked at Maria and asked her if she knew how to use a gun.  She nodded yes, and I told her that it was loaded, and that she should keep it close to her at all times.  I stepped outside, grabbed a few pieces of firewood, and placed them beside the fireplace.  I reminded Maria that there was plenty of firewood on the porch for when she needed it.  I walked over to her, cupped her face in my hands, and told her that I would be back.  A tear rolled down her face, and she told me she knew she would never see me again.  I really did not know what else to say.  I reminded her that I was taking her wagon, and that I was not stealing it.  I told her she just needed to trust me.  It was difficult to leave, seeing that look on her face, but I grabbed the rifle and walked out the door.

Maria did little the three days since but sit at the table and look out the window, knowing in her heart she would never see Nate again.  She fed and watered the animals, cooked meals, but her days seemed empty and she felt lonelier than she had ever felt.  Each day forced her to feel a little more defeated, and her tears seemed to be constantly flowing.  On this morning, she chose to just sleep.

Maria heard a noise, and sat up in bed.  As she looked toward the door, it opened, and Nate walked in.  She didn't move, and the expression on her face seemed blank.  Nate walked across the room, sat on the edge of the bed and took her hand into his. 
"Maria, I know you needed some time to think, and so did I." Nate said, as he gently stroked her hair.  "I told you that I would come back, and I want you to understand that when I give my word, I keep it.  I will keep coming back until I take my last breath, but only with one condition.  I will only do it, if you will marry me."  Maria threw her arms around him and held him closely to her.  "Of course, I will marry you." She said, and for the first time ever, their lips touched.  Nate pulled Maria up from the bed and told her he wanted to show her something.  He led her to the door, opened it, and they walked out onto the porch.  Nate pointed to the wagon, and then looked at Maria.  A huge smile appeared on her face, as Nate said.  "I thought we would need a bigger bed."

Tags: Writing, poems, poetry, short stories,

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What Is It With The Polls On This Site?  I Am Just Confused…

Ok, first of all, I am not trying to disrespect anyone, but this is driving me nuts and I want to not only make my own statement, but to see how others feel on the issue, if they even care at all. 

POLLS…POLLS…POLLS…POLLS…POLLS…POLLS…POLLS

I honestly believe the whole concept of being able to create polls and to post them as a form of seeking and observing the views of others on various issues or thoughts is a productive tool.  Well, it should be.  Having said that, it is disturbing to me to visit the polls and look through about the first fifty and see only polls from two or three people and none of them are asking anything that relates to anything that even resembles a serious thought.  For example, “How many feel sorry for the people in Japan?”  Do we really need a poll to know this answer, and is it a serious poll that is actually inquiring as to whether people are concerned about the recent situation in Japan?  One of the largest earthquakes ever recorded just hit Japan, with five aftershocks that each qualified as major earthquakes.  It is estimated that in excess of 10,000 people have lost their lives, and the number is growing by the minute.  Japan is devastated.  Do we really need to ask to see if people are concerned?  Is there anyone who would actually answer the question with a resounding no?

  There are polls that ask questions about polls, should America change its name, do you like me, should the toilet seat be up or down, do you like my polls, are you racist, and my favorite, “What if I leave from here.”  Freedom of speech applies to polls as it does in any other form of speech, but with the polls, you have to sift through fifty polls, written by two or three people before you can find a poll that may even come close to asking a question that has some substance, and has a selection of answers that actually allow you to reply in a cognitive manner.

Honestly, I do not care for the polls, and with the content of the polls, many choose to simply avoid them, mainly because they apply to nothing, or in some cases, they do not even understand what the polls are asking.  I don’t care if the polls change from how they are now, nor am I asking for them to be changed.  I am just wondering how many people, like myself are just avoiding the polls because they have nothing to offer, much less have a real insightful purpose.  It does anger me that I cannot place one of my polls on the site, and not have it buried behind fifty polls that are put up right behind me by the same three people.  So, I do not post polls any longer, because people cannot even find them to read, if anyone even decided to look for a possible serious poll to be found.  Many do not post polls because they know they will immediately be buried behind that which will make people get annoyed with the polls before their can even be seen. 

Again, I am not trying to be disrespectful to anyone, nor am I stating that you should change your polling practices.  It is none of my business, nor is it my right to tell you what you should or should not do.  That is not my purpose with this post.  I am just curious if others avoid the polls, or avoid placing polls for the same reasons I have mentioned?  No one should look at this as an attack on anyone.  This post is my poll that I cannot post with the regular poll option, because no one would ever see it to reply.  What are your thoughts on the polls and do you ever go to the polls to see what may be there?  I am just curious…   

Tags: Polls,

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Music Playlist at MixPod.com

Just for your enjoyment, here is some more music…Nothing But The Blues…I am a big fan of the blues and as I was looking for songs, I decided to share all that I found with those who may share in their love for the blues.   The music player at the top of the page contains all of the songs listed on the post. There are 67 songs in all.  Use the arrows on the music  player to move through the songs…Enjoy, my friends…Vic Damico

Johnny Lee Hooker

Boom Boom

One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer

I’m In The Mood (with Bonnie Raitt)

Susie

The Right Time

Albert Collins

Iceman

Snowed In

Cold Cold Feelin

The Dream (with Robert Cray)

If Trouble Was Money

Tired Man

Junior Wells

Use Me

Cut That Out

Hoodoo Man Blues

You Don’t Love Me Baby

Mystery Train

It’s My Life Baby

James Cotton

Sad Sad Day

Don’t Start Me Talkin

I Put My Baby Out

Mojo

Slow Blues

Cut You Loose

Buddy Guy

Slippin In

74 Years Young

Five Long Years

Mary Had A Little Lamb

Make A Woman Satisfied

Lightning Hopkins

Baby Please Don’t Go

Lonesome Road

Shotgun Blues

Rock Me Baby

Bring Me My Shotgun

Muddy Waters

Manish Boy

Can’t Get No Grindin

I’m A Man

Hoochie Coochie Man

Baby Please Don’t Go

Long Distance Call

Johnny Winter

Mojo Boogie

Stranger Blues

Highway 61

Hey Joe

Black Jack

Murdering Blues

BB King

Rock Me Baby

Key To The Highway

Help The Poor

Three O’clock Blues

Nobody Loves Me Like My Mother

When It All Comes Down

Robert Cray

Bad Influence

Right Next Door

I Guess I Showed Her

I’m Walkin

The One In The Middle

The Score

ENJOY THE MUSIC, MY FRIENDS…

Tags: Music, Vic Damico

10 comments View Entry

My Understanding Of My Faith In God

Note:  First of all, do not personally attack my religious beliefs.   Just as I do not have the right or the intention to attack your beliefs, I deserve no less respect.  This is a serious blog, and it will be conducted as a serious blog.  You are not required to agree with me, my thoughts, my understandings, or even my faith, but do not put forth efforts to convince me my faith is less meaningful because you may not share in those same beliefs.  It is not possible to force another to believe in God, so to perceive this post as doing just that will be considered as simply misrepresenting, or not understanding my meaning. 

Absolutely no personal attacks, or rude behavior will be allowed on this blog, so do not come forth as an attempt to simply distract from the purpose of the blog.  It will not be tolerated, period.  Ask questions, state your own beliefs, or disagree with the opinions of me and of others, but do so in a decent, civil manner or your comments will be deleted with no warning. 

What I will say now, I have said before, but since I believe it to be the very foundation of all that is to follow, I will say it once again.  My individual relationship with God is just that.  It is a relationship that simply exists between me and God, and that is truly the only part of my faith of which I have complete control.  That is the foundation of my faith.  All else that comes into play is based on that individual relationship, so to disagree with me needs to be directed to my individual faith, and not to be connected with everyone else who claims to share in that faith.  If there are people who stray from what is considered acceptable behavior as dictated by my faith, it should not be assumed that the entire religious beliefs are represented, nor does it have an impact on my personal relationship with God.  I control my thoughts, ideas, and my behavior based on my understanding of my faith, and when someone else steps beyond that allowed behavior of my faith, the individual that does so is represented, not me, and not the faith as a whole. 

With my faith, God allows for free will, and that basically means that no one is required to believe in God and no one is required to live their lives in a manner that is guided by the laws of God.  It is an individual choice, but having said that, by not believing in God, it does not by any means remove God as a reality.   It does not remove the guidelines set forth by God, nor does it allow the laws that are broken to go unnoticed by God.  My point is quite simple.  Lack of belief does not make something less real, so not believing in God does not remove God.  No person, no idea, or no country has the power to come between my faith in God and me, and that faith is not based on what is accepted by others, or their understanding of my individual faith in God.  You may question my faith, you may doubt my faith, and you may even condemn my faith, but you cannot remove my faith.  That remains within that individual relationship that goes no further than that which exists between God and me. 

There are horrible actions and behaviors that we witness on a daily basis, and these should never be considered to go beyond the individual who is responsible for these actions and behaviors.  The heart of the individual is the basis for the good and the bad that may exist in that individual, and the blame or credit for the actions or behaviors needs to be based on that individual, not on a group, or directed at my specific faith.  When you blame the group, or the faith for the actions and behavior of an individual, you are misrepresenting the group and the faith, itself.  This mentality is responsible for much of the lack of understanding of true faith, and in many cases is used as a tool in a conscious effort to discredit the faith.  It is inaccurate, it is misleading, and yet, it has absolutely no effect on my personal faith, which is grounded on an understanding of that faith, itself.

While someone may not share in my personal faith, they do not have the right to tell me that my faith is not real, or to try to convince me that I should not continue my faith based on their beliefs or understanding.  Having said that, I also understand that I cannot force my beliefs or faith upon others, nor do I have the right or intention to do so.  Faith in God is accepted, not mandated, and those of us who have that faith have that understanding to see it as just that…Vic Damico     

Tags: God, Religion, Vic Damcio,

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127 Responses to “How The Republican Party Began…(Fact, Not Fiction)”

1. 

   Marie C
   2011-03-05 at 8:24 pm   edit

   Quote

   No matter what party stopped it or started….wish it could be finished…

   Good one Vic…

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   vicdamico Reply:
   March 5th, 2011 at 8:29 pm

   Hi, Marie…I agree, my friend…It will never be finished…Racism is a political tool, whereas both sides use the word “RACISM” to actually create racism. It fuel a fire that should have been extinguished many years ago. Look at some of the recent blogs. It makes me furious to hear people speak of the middle class slavery. That it not slavery. Slavery is being controlled, not allowing yourself to be controlled.

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   Marie C Reply:
   March 5th, 2011 at 8:34 pm

   Once upon a time, I thought slavery was a thing of the past…boy was I wrong. We’re all slaves, in one way or another, black or white. Doesn’t matter. We’re slaves of the government. They don’t work for us anymore, we work for them.

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   vicdamico Reply:
   March 5th, 2011 at 8:53 pm

   Only if we let them, Marie. I live my life by my own terms, and by this, I mean that I will take care of myself with whatever life may throw in my direction. After losing my job about a month ago, I did not, nor will I consider going to the government for assistance. I do not want that connection to the government. I will be fine, and I will do it on my own. There are some who have no choice but to look for assistance, and that is fine, especially when children are a concern. But so far, I have been able to survive on my own, and even though it can be quite a struggle at times, it feels good at the end of the day to know that I did it on my own.

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   Marie C Reply:
   March 5th, 2011 at 9:17 pm

   I’m with ya on that…for a long time I worked 2 jobs just so I wouldn’t have to get any help. I was finally able to quit doing that, but if things keep going the way they are going,….might have to do it again…and damn, I’m just to old for that…haha. But I’ll do it if I have to.

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2. 

   Labrea_Tarpits
   2011-03-05 at 8:54 pm   edit

   Quote

   Left a heart, good blog. Times change don’t they? To imply that 1854 and 1860 Republicans are the same as the current crop makes little sense for any of us to do. That is the crux of this issue. Ditto for Progressives or Democrats. One hears a good deal about those who want to make voting harder and strike minorities off the voter registration list. See page 117, “Voter Discrimination”.
   http://books.google.com/books?id=0f7yTNb_V3QC&pg=PA117&lpg=PA117&dq=striking+minorities+of+the+voters+list&source=bl&ots=OeQAQS7KXY&sig=bZ9cjg5UV1VMXqDeQFtDnUCtfMU&hl=en&ei=jOZyTZGcGNTOgAf65d0y&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&sqi=2&ved=0CBcQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=striking%20minorities%20of%20the%20voters%20list&f=false

   Why anyone would want to limit voting and place obstacles to it in a Democracy is beyond my comprehension.

   And thanks for the emoticons.
   

   Likes: 1

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   vicdamico Reply:
   March 5th, 2011 at 9:05 pm

   Thanks, Labrea…Things have indeed changed. Neither side is anything like they used to be. At one time, the changes were made as they applied to the good of the people, but today, both sides seems to be concerned with what is best for them. As an end result, half of the nation (the people) are left out of the whole process. Our nation will continue to decline until we finally come to the realization that we are all on the same side…America…

   

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   Marie C Reply:
   March 5th, 2011 at 9:13 pm

   I want the emoticons too….:(
   I tried to find them, couldn’t.

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   Allah-O-Akbar Reply:
   March 5th, 2011 at 9:15 pm

   Use them at your own risk.

   Likes: 0

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   Labrea_Tarpits Reply:
   March 5th, 2011 at 9:26 pm

   I have a Mac. I dragged and dropped them onto my desk top out of Vic’s blog and scanned them with Clamx. They appear to be clean to me.

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   vicdamico Reply:
   March 5th, 2011 at 10:09 pm

   If you get the smileys directly from my posting them, I know they are clean. Remind me and I will post all of them as a blog and you can just pick and choose what you want…

   

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   Marie C Reply:
   March 6th, 2011 at 11:27 am

   Great idea…:)

   I did find the website that you used. I down loaded it but for some reason I couldn’t find on my computer. I tried twice and then gave up..haha.

   Likes: 0

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   vicdamico Reply:
   March 6th, 2011 at 11:45 am

   Hi, Marie…I did the same thing, originally. I downloaded it and could not find the little rascals…Then, one day I noticed the smiley on my toolbar. It may have been there the whole time, and I just didn’t notice…Check there just in case…By the way, I use Firefox as a browser in addition to IE…It only shows up on Firefox…

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   vicdamico Reply:
   March 6th, 2011 at 11:51 am

   

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   D_LEMUR Reply:
   March 6th, 2011 at 3:53 pm

   yea I just copy em and save them so I know they are clean…lol…the ems
   I mean…lol

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   vicdamico Reply:
   March 6th, 2011 at 3:57 pm

   Hey, D…I have a lot more of the smileys on my new blog…I will be adding more as I go if you want more…
   

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   Marie C Reply:
   March 6th, 2011 at 11:25 am

   Amy shared this over on facebook….thought it might fit in….

   http://networkedblogs.com/f5PN2

   

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   Labrea_Tarpits Reply:
   March 5th, 2011 at 9:32 pm

   We are on the same side as far as good intentions are concerned Vic. The path is what divides us. An unregulated free market led to Robber Barons in the past and I believe we are seeing the same again in the form of corporate control of our politics and therefore our law. Not to mention the growing economic divide.

   Likes: 1

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   vicdamico Reply:
   March 6th, 2011 at 12:31 am

   Very true, Labrea. The sad thing is the path that has been chosen is not what is best for the people; in fact, it does not really concern the people. Washington represents itself, while any good that applies to the people is merely coincidental. We, as a people (both sides) need to condition ourselves to see beyond the division and realize that the division we insist upon is what allows Washington to have free reign and go unnoticed as we bicker about who is to blame. The connections to the banking industry, the corporations, the unions, etc. is not as we see it. While we argue as to who is wrong and who is right, we remain ignorant as to what is actually happening. Both sides are guilty as hell, and we are merely trying to determine who is screwing up less. That may sound harsh to some people, but we must look at the actions of all who are in Washington and get it out of our mind that there is even a slight possibility that one side can be right about all aspects of the direction of our nation.

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3. 

   Mari Ana
   2011-03-05 at 9:00 pm   edit

   Quote

   In my political science course I had the good fortune of having Dr. Tomlinson as my instrutor. As most text books are slanted to the left, he taught “FACTS”. What you wrote is true and I am glad you wrote it. So many do not know
   the correct history as they are not taught “facts”. Thank you. Good blog. Mari ana.

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   vicdamico Reply:
   March 5th, 2011 at 9:09 pm

   Hi, Mari Ana…I have enough books to probably open a library. I have tons of older history books and books on economics that I can use as references. I very seldom use the words of others in my blogs, but with this issue, I felt compelled to use an older book that has not been changed as so many have these days. I love history, and I love it as it applies to the actual facts…

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   Marie C Reply:
   March 5th, 2011 at 9:18 pm

   I tried to comment on your blog….did you block certain people?

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   vicdamico Reply:
   March 5th, 2011 at 9:24 pm

   Hi, Marie…If you are talking to me, the answer is no…I have not blocked anyone…(YET) That one posted, so it must be ok.

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   Marie C Reply:
   March 5th, 2011 at 9:32 pm

   Oh no…not you hun….Little Miss Mari Ana…
   I know you don’t usually block anyone….especially me…yet..haha.

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   vicdamico Reply:
   March 5th, 2011 at 9:41 pm

   Marie, I wouldn’t block you if you called me a bad name…

   

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   Marie C Reply:
   March 6th, 2011 at 1:09 pm

   I’m glad you wouldn’t block me. Apparently some people will block you, for no reason….they don’t even know ya, you’ve never spoken… And others will block you just cuz they are cry babies….

   Amazes me…

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   vicdamico Reply:
   March 6th, 2011 at 8:34 pm

   Hi, Marie…I have blocked a few people…Then, I usually re-think it and unblock them…I just call it a “TIME OUT”

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   Mari Ana Reply:
   March 7th, 2011 at 11:03 pm

   The only reason and, I may be wrong about this but it was panic of what I went trough at myspace. I dont care who your friends are I just did not want them bothering me or knowing I was here… But they know anyway so it just did not work and its no use anyway. I am at my wits end and, it does not feel good.Dont expect any violins I just never hurt anyone. It was my dislike for Obama and his agenda. I do not slander memebers or go after them. So they got their way, this little girl is thinking about leaving. What happened a year and a half ago at myspace commenting on a blog which was not their blog I get my photo plastered all over the networks and my comments. So I really dont care. I am just about ready to give up. It is not a good feeling. No violins. Peace mari ana.

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   vicdamico Reply:
   March 7th, 2011 at 11:12 pm

   Leaving solves nothing…It is the internet, Mari Ana…It is what it is…It will not alter your life…Sift through what you wish to sift through and avoid that which you do not want. That is what I do. The drama is not pretty, but it does not effect my life. The best defense against drama is to ignore it. Or, as Homer Simpson said, “Ummm Donuts.”

   

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4. 

   Allah-O-Akbar
   2011-03-05 at 9:03 pm   edit

   Quote

   I had to do some fact checking on this. You are right about the birth of the Republican Party. When I was much younger, the Republican Party included people like Nelson Rockefeller, John Lindsey, and Senator Edward Brook. (Off topic: results of my checking out the site for emoticons are in a separate blog).

   Likes: 0

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   Tags: Politics, Political, Vic Damico,

   5 comments View Entry

   
   

   Just Some Good Old Rock And Roll...(Take A Break) Posted On 03/10/2011 04:17:36

   
   
   Music Playlist at MixPod.com

   
   

   Just to take a break from the normal, or not so normal blogging, I decided to just play some good old rock and roll...These are some of my personal favorites, and I will add more as the blog progresses.  Feel free to make suggestions or tell me what your favorites may be.  The music player at the top of the page contains all songs that are listed.  Use the arrows to move to the next or previous song in order to find the song you may want to hear.  Enjoy the music...vic damico

   
   

   
   

   
   

   Santana

   Black Magic Woman

   
   

   

   
   

   ZZ Top

   La Grange

   Rough Boy

   Legs

   Pearl Necklace

   Just Got Paid
   

   
   

   
   

   

   
   

   Tom Petty

   Running Down A Dream

   American Girl

   Wildflowers

   Don't Come Around Here No More

   Stop Dragging My Heart Around (w/Stevie Nicks)
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   Pink Floyd

   Comfortably Numb

   Dark Side Of The Moon

   Time

   Marooned

   Pigs

   The Great Gig In The Sky

   Brain Damage
   

   
   

   

   
   

   Black Sabbath

   Paranoid
   

   
   

   

   
   

   Led Zeppelin

   Stairway To Heaven

   Ramble On

   Kashmir

   Over The Hills And Far Away

   
   

   

   
   

   Journey

   Don't Stop Believing

   Faithfully

   Separate Ways

   Oh Sherry

   Wheel In The Sky

   Open Arms
   

   
   

   
   

   

   
   

   Joan Jett

   I Love Rock And Roll
   

   
   

   

   
   

   The Eagles

   Hotel California
   

   
   

   

   
   

   David Bowie

   Ziggy Stardust

   Five Years

   All The Young Dudes

   Moonage Daydream

   Suffragette City

   Thursday's Child
   

   
   

   

   
   

   Blondie

   One Way Or Another
   

   
   

   

   
   

   Molly Hatchet

   Gator Country

   Flirting With Disaster
   

   
   

   

   
   

   Def Leppard

   Pour Some Sugar On Me

   
   

   

   
   

   AC/DC

   You Shook Me All Night Long

   Thunderstruck

   Hell's Bells

   Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap

   For Those About To Rock
   

   
   

   

   
   

   Train Kept A Rollin'.....Aerosmith

   Dream On

   Back In The Saddle

   I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing

   Mama Kin
   

   
   

   

   
   

   Jimi Hendrix

   All Along The Watchtower

   Voodoo Child

   Pali Gap

   Power Of Soul

   Dolly Dagger

   Peace In Mississippi
   

   
   

   
   

   

   
   

   Black Oak Arkansas

   Race With The Devil

   Bump And Grind

   
   

   
   

   

   
   

   The Rolling Stones

   Paint It Black

   Honky Tonk Woman

   Gimme Shelter

   
   

   
   

   

   
   

   Van Halen

   Running With The Devil

   Why Can't This Be Love

   Poundcake

   
   

   
   

   

   
   

   Eric Clapton

   Classical Gas

   White Room

   Bell Bottom Blues

   
   

   

   
   

   Bob Seger

   Turn The Page

   Night Moves

   Against The Wind

   Travelin Man/Beautiful Loser

   
   

   

   
   

   Frank Zappa

   Don't Eat The Yellow Snow

   Cosmik Debris

   Joe's Garage

   Tags: Music, Vic Damico

   6 comments View Entry

   
   

   Just A Little Economic Rant Posted On 03/08/2011 03:09:22

   JUST A LITTLE ECONOMIC RANT

    

   We are in the middle if a recession, that in spite of what we are being told will get much worse before it gets better.  I made this prediction quite a while back opposing the economists and especially those in Washington on both sides, and we are starting to see the inflation of which I spoke.  Who cares who is to blame?  The recession continues, and that should be our concern.  While we, the people concentrate on blaming our opposing party, those in Washington continue to do nothing other than to takes steps that have no positive impact on the economy.  All the plans, programs, and bailouts have done nothing to produce positive results, and those who will disagree will not give concrete example that disprove this statement.  And by the way, when I speak of previous actions taken by our government, it does include the first economic stimulus plan while President Bush was in office.  Bushes plan, just like those with the time President Obama has been in office did little other than to make the people feel better and create the illusion that something was being done.  With its natural course, a recession will weed out the businesses that based on economics should fail, and with this process, although I wish it on no one, it strengthens the overall economy by only allowing stable companies to remain, not those which require our tax dollars to pay for the survival of a business that should have failed in the first place.  We blame the banks for their part in the cause of the recession, yet we give them money we earned to help them to survive.  Yes, banks used questionable lending practices, but with every loan that took place, someone signed a legal binding contract, in which they may or may not have read, nor understood.  If you purchase a home, that you cannot afford based on details that are included in a contract you signed, you are not completely without fault.  That may sound harsh, but when you purchase a home, you should understand what exactly is expected as far as you part of the contract.  The banks simply were not concerned, because they knew if you failed to comply with the legal contract, they would own the home.  What the banks did not count on is that this happened with so many homes, that it shook up the housing market so bad, that the homes the banks owned were worth less than they had invested in them.  So, our wizards in Washington decided to bail them out.  In the process, they told them who they were to lend money to, and how much they were allowed to pay their employees. (CEOs)  Lending practices have not improved, plus credit is much more difficult to come by.  Credit cards from banks that small businesses depend upon for operating capital are not simply there for the taking, and the banks are afraid to lend money within this scary economy.  The economy was not helped, but the government did add some regulations that gave them more control of the banks.  That was actually their goal in my mind, because nothing else seems to make sense.  The banks in the U.S. hold the majority of the debt related to the national debt, so who actually bailed out whom?

    

   Then you had the automobile industry bailout.  This was stupidity at its finest.  I wrote about this before the bailout even took place, and my opinion is still as it was then.  The automobile industry was not selling cars for a simply reason.  With the economy as bad as it was, even then, people were not buying cars because of lack of consumer confidence.  People were losing jobs, banks were not comfortable with lending, and a worse economy had been predicted.  It had nothing to do with who was making the most efficient automobile, the safest automobile, or the most environmentally friendly automobile.  It had nothing to do with the industry, itself.  I said the following, even before the bailout.  If we were to give the automobile industry enough funding to demolish their plants, rebuild, re-tool, and make the safest, most efficient, and the most environmentally friendly automobiles on the planet, they still would not have sold them.  People were either unable to afford the purchase or they were afraid to spend the money with fear of what may happen with the economy.  So, once again, our wizards in Washington bail them out.  In the process, we, the people became owners of 62% of General Motors.  Let me make that a little bit more clear.  Our government has controlling interest in General Motors.  Now consider the following.  General Motors is actually doing better, lately.  Have you heard a single person in Washington make a statement concerning a return on the money from GM?  With 62% holdings in the company, there should be funds coming to the government.  Why is no one speaking of this?  Where is the money and how much is it?  Once again, our government has creped into the private sector and gained control of it.  This cannot, nor should it be just ignored by us any longer. 

    

   There are far too many secrets in Washington, and we are just standing by, arguing with each other to see who is to blame.  The truth is that the people, all of us are not who is to blame.  It is that few select people (both sides) in Washington.  What we, the people need to understand (both conservatives and liberals) is that we did not vote on these bailouts, nor did we have a say in the making of the bills.  No, we were only allowed to pay for it.  We do not need to blame each other; as if you or I had something to do with this pathetic governing process we have had before us for the last two decades.  We cannot depend on just the right or just the left to fix these problems, because the concepts of both are not in the best of the people, or the nation.  The economy has not improved.  Jobs have not been created, with the exception of those that are nothing more than a manipulation of the truth, whereas it cost $240,000 to create a job that pays $40,000.  People need to wake up and realize that the solution to all that ails America is not to determine who is worthy of blame, but to concentrate on repairing our nation before it is too late.  I trust no one in Washington, mainly because no one (either side) has done anything to earn that trust.  At the rate we are going, one party will be able to say the following…Yes; we were the party in charge when the country collapsed...Vic Damico  03-07-2011        

   Tags: politics, political, economy, Vic Damico

   10 comments View Entry

   
   

   (Part 3) Obama And Bush At Walmart (Humor) Posted On 02/16/2011 10:25:11

   Part 3…”A CONVERSATION BETWEEN OBAMA AND BUSH” (HUMOR)

   
   

   …Setting…   President Obama and former President Bush walking through a Walmart.

    

   Bush:     “You know Obama, I shop here quite often.  They seem to have everything.”

    

   Obama:     “Yes, it is quite a selection, but I just hate to see so few products that are actually produced in this country.”

    

   Bush:    “I have said it before.   I believe too many of our imports are coming from overseas.”

    

   Obama:  “Huh?  It is ridiculous that most of these products on these shelves were put together by the hands of the Chinese.”

    

   Bush:  “Not only that, Barakona, but most of them come from China.”

    

   Obama:     “Look, George.  My name is Obama.  Would you please try to remember that?”

    

   Bush:    “Yea, whatever.  Where are you from?  Let’s go look at the guns.”

    

   Obama:     “I am originally from Hawaii.”

    

   Bush:     “So you had to come to this country on a boat.  Are you legal?”

    

   Obama:    “What?”

    

   Bush:   “Look at all of those guns.  Let’s get one.  I’ll buy.”

    

   Obama:     “I don’t need a gun, George.  And neither do you.”

    

   Bush:     “Don’t call me George.  And don’t tell me that I don’t need a gun.  The 17^th amendment says differently.”
   
   

   Obama:      “Huh?  Well at least some of these are made in America.  Are you really going to buy a gun?”

    

   Bush:  (speaking to man behind the gun counter)  Ok, I have two questions for you?  Do you have any AK-47s and did you vote for this guy?”

    

   Obama:     “George, please!”

    

   Bush:     “Lighten up, Baranova.  Let’s go to the clothing department.  I need some underwear.  Come on, I’ll buy you some Chinese underwear.”

    

   Obama:     “George, lets go.  I have things to do.”

    

   Bush:     “Oh, yeah.  I forgot.   You’re the president.  Let’s go to Hooters for lunch.  I’ll buy.”

   Tags: Politics, Political, Bush, Obama, Humor

   4 comments View Entry

   
   

   (Part 2) A Conversation Between Obama and Bush" (Humor) Posted On 02/16/2011 10:23:27

   Part 2  “ANOTHER CONVERSATION BETWEEN OBAMA AND BUSH”

    

   Bush:     “Mr. President, I am really concerned about your new budget, proposal. Although I am not sure what is in it, I feel you are not making enough cuts.”

    

   Obama:     “Why are you concerned if you do not know what is in the budget?”

    

   Bush:     “Just answer my question!”

    

   Obama:     “You did not ask a question.”

    

   Bush:     “Oh, yeah.  Do you honestly believe you are making enough cuts in the budget to really make a difference, or are you just really just a mullet head?”

    

   Obama:     “Um, I don’t really appreciate the name calling, George, but I will answer your question.  These cuts I am making in the budget are difficult and I have to be concerned of the consequences that may be related to those cuts.”

    

   Bush:     “You think that is name calling?  I have been called everything in the book.   Stop whining.  Yeah, I get it.  Being president is hard isn’t it?  You just have to say what is on your mind.  I always did.”

    

   Obama:     “Yea, I remember that about you.  You were quite a treasure for the media.  They never knew what you would say next.”

    

   Bush:     “Look Oblabama or whatever your name is.  At least if someone asked me what time it was, I looked at my watch instead of a teleprompter.  Sometimes, I crack myself up.”  (smirky grin)

    

   Obama:     “Yea, I use a teleprompter.  You did as well.  It allows my words to be accurate and to say what is really on my mind.”

    

   Bush:     “Damn!  Maybe I should have used one more often.   I would not have created so many new words.  Sometimes my vocabularism would be slightly confused.”

    

   Obama:     “Huh? 

    

   George walks across the room and sits behind the desk of the president.

    

   Obama:     “Um, George.  You need to come sit on this side of the desk.  I am the only one who sits there.”

    

   Bush:     “Make me!”  I was here eight years.  I have seniorocity.”

    

   Obama:     “Please George.  Take a seat in front of the desk, please.”

    

   Bush:     “Keep your britches on, Barokona.   And I told you not to call me George.  You don’t know me that well.  Call me, Mr. President.”

    

   Obama:     “Look, I have a meeting to be in shortly, so I need you to leave.”

    

   Bush:      “You want me to sit in?  I may be of some help to you.  I know how this stuff works.”

    

   Obama:     “No, thank you, George, um Mr. President.   I think I will handle this on my own.”

    

   Bush:     “What is the deal?  Hell, Carter and Clinton travel the world running your errands and I can’t sit in on a meeting?  It’s not your shrink, is it?”

    

   Obama:     “No, it is a meeting on health care.”

    

   Bush:      “On, you can have that can of worms.  I don’t want any part of that conversation.  You have your own problems.”

    

   Obama:     “Well, contrary to what many say, the health care plan will help a lot of people.” 

    

   Bush:     “Yea, I call your health care plan a “gopher hole.” 

    

   Obama:     “And why is that?”

    

   Bush:     “I have gopher holes all over my ranch.  I never know what will come from them either.”  (Silly smile)

    

   Obama:      “Look, George.  You really need to leave now. “

    

   Bush:     â€œYea, that is what a lot of people are saying about you, Baranova.”

    

   Obama:     “Get out of my office.”

    

   Bush:     “I’m going. 

    

   Tags: Politics, Political, Bush, Obama, Humor

   2 comments View Entry

   
   
   
   

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