Phew.

This afternoon, I finished my last securities test. This one wasn't quite the monster I took in May, but with the hectic schedule I've had recently, there didn't seem to be a lot of time for study (or was I just tired of studying?).
When one's brain is old, as mine is, it seems to take a lot more effort to make the stuff soak in. Maybe it's my need to understand the logic and concepts, which don't always seem to be present when one deals with government regulations.
Anyway, I passed, with score to spare.
Phew.
I'm vegging out tonight. Tomorrow, I leave for St. Paul for a follow up week of training. A week on the road, away from work and home, neither of which I wish to be away from.
This shall pass.
Hope all is well with y'all.

Happy Father's Day

Yesterday, I found myself in kind of a funk. I couldn't really put a finger on what was wrong, just a non-specific "downer" feeling.
As I was riding on my lawnmower, it occurred to me - I missed my dad. Seeing all the spots on Tim Russert, which mentioned the relationship between Tim & his dad, made me think of my dad, and all the fond memories I have of him. He's been gone a little over a year now, but rare is the day I don't think about him or mention him in conversation.
Most of all, I miss talking to him. I've got a lot of questions for him; guess they'll have to wait.
I've had conversations with my kids already today, wishing me well for Father's Day. I wonder, however, how I stack up as a dad. Methinks there could have been improvements made, but I'm sure about everyone might think that in retrospect. I count myself as blessed to have such a wonderful family, certainly beyond what I deserve...
So, hope all you dads have had a great day. Enjoy your time with your kids, they are priceless moments you will treasure forever. And, if you've still got your dad, be sure to keep the relationship alive and well.
No regrets.

For all you who vainly visit each day hoping for a new post...

It's in process. It's been just a bit busy lately, with the new job and studying for some additional securities exams (one down, one to go)(exams, that is, not jobs...). So, I've got some great plans for awesome posts, just a little weak on the execution of late. So, hang in there, keep visiting, it will pay off...I promise.

Tulip Time brings...

Welcome visitors. Not the least of which would be family. Kathy went down to KC Wednesday to pick up some VIP visitors, ant then took them on a tour of their soon-to-be new home, Lawrence, KS...After the campus tour, they came to Pella for Tulip Time festivities, as well as fun at Papa and Nana' house.More pics later.

A slithery surprise

So, I got a call from Kathy the other day, just as I was about to leave work and head home. She said she needed some help making a problem go away...




...specifically, this 3 ft bullsnake in our greenhouse.

Ah, springtime in Iowa, when the trees begin to leaf out and a young snake's thoughts turn to sunning on a pile of wood. Little did he know the hoe (garden hoe, that is) awaiteth...

This was supposed to be my spring post...

but as I sit here at my desk this morning I am watching snow fall outside the window. On April 12.

Not unprecedented, mind you, but certainly unwelcome. At least by me.

I must say, I am more than ready (is there a word for that?) for Spring and Springtime weather. Of course, after a run of years where the tulips have been long gone by Tulip Time, this may bring another issue - tulips not open by Tulip Time.

Just goes to show that we aren't in control.

Hope it's nice where you are.

Kinda windy today

Here's the view from our deck.
Or something like that. Better have rocks in your pockets if you go outdoors.
Maybe this will dry things out a bit :-)