Everything from the old "Ramblings" Site

July 17, 2006:
Yesterday began my 29th year on earth. Life's been good to me so far. I must be getting older. I recall a time when getting those Tyco Slot Car Toys or new car speakers would've just made my birthday spirits soar. Now, I'm totally excited about my new GrassHog Weed Wacker and SKIL 18v Drill/Driver. Years ago, I might have said, "Gifts like that would suck." Now...I feel like the luckiest man on the face of the earth. Funny how time can change the world in which we live in. Hell....when I was 18, I would've mocked the ownership of a Honda Accord. Now...I brag about my Honda as if it is a "SuperCar." Then again...given today's gas prices....it really is a Super Car.
It's amazing how we all view this world so differently. So many differences in what is and isn't important to us all. For some, not having an All Business Class Boeing Jet is just pathetic and they won't stand for such trash. For others, being able to eat a piece of bread and drink some water can make their day. Right now, there are probably people in Israel who are concerned about the conflict their nation is in, yet they might be focused on a business deal at their job or maybe how important it is that they fix the leak in their roof. I was talking a little about the political state of this planet Saturday night with my uncle in law...if there is such a title. Some of Sheri's family came over for a surprise dinner in honor of my birthday. We talked a little bit about North Korea, missile range and it's possible effect on our country. This got me thinking. The beautiful thing about this country is that we have our 2nd amendment right to arm ourselves. Regardless of it's uses in street violence and crime, this amendment serves to all of us, the right to defend ourselves against attack from an aggressive enemy. You know if (and only for example) an army of another nation landed on our shores to attempt to overtake the United States, there would be very few of us Americans who actually wouldn't pick up a gun and fight back. Think about it this way, with as many gun owning, Deer Killing Rednecks in this country, I feel safer knowing they would actually get off on being able to kill an enemy of ours who wants to take away their freedom of drinking beer and changing the oil in their motorcycles. Then, you have all of those pipe hitting gangsters who kill in cold blood for the ability to maintain their drug trade. I'll bet they would be ready to roll up on the scene to pop a few caps in anybody who wants to remove their right to kill for money. Even though I've never shot a gun, I would be the first in line at my local gun shop to buy a weapon and take on the "Bad Guys." The only sad thing is that I'd end up shooting my foot off before I ever get the chance to defend my freedoms against an aggressor. Yet, all of this being said, what is still important to me, is the freedom to laugh at everything. Sure, the country could come under attack. Yes, we'll probably be hit with terrorism again. Nuclear arms are falling into the hands of lunatic leaders of unstable nations. Does this bother me...of course. But what is really important? Laughter! How else should we deal with so much bad in the world? Maybe I'll be looked at like I'm nuts....what do I care? If the Nuclear fallout, gun shot, terrorist bomb, etc....is what ends my life....at least I'll know that I laughed my way through my life and enjoyed it at every chance I had. I pose this question to all who care to answer it for yourselves....What is important to you....how important is it?
I think I should write a book. Maybe I'll title it...."Who gives a shit? A simple guide to enjoying life in today's troubled times"
Speaking of laughing....have you ever seen a kid ride a bike.....slam into the back of someone's car....fly over the car and land in the street in front of the car? Now that's funny!
Osama...Hezbolla...Kim Jong Ill....Mahmoud Ahmadinejad....Bring it on! You may have seen American Military Force....but you've never been face to face with a pissed off mob of Pimps and Rednecks. The military will play be the rules.....our Pimps and Rednecks don't know what rules is YO! Thay gonna bust you in Yo Mouth Bizzatches.

July 15, 2006:
Tomorrow I hit 29 years old. I just had a physical yesterday in accordance with the FAA's medical requirements to be a pilot. I'm glad to say that as I age, I'm still in excellent health. It would be a real bummer to have some guy hold my balls, tell me to turn my head and cough...only to find out that I'm not healthy. That would just be too demoralizing.
Two weeks in a row for massive delays at BWI. ATA can't seem to send me an airplane that is mechanically sound enough to fly within 24 hours of it's scheduled departure time. Oh well....at least my Hotel/Transportation service guy was in town to sweat with me while I tried to organize buses and vans for passengers to get to their hotels. Thank you Pat. I've been very busy with ATA lately. Funny little story about a charter we were contracted to do two days ago. Gangster Rapper "50 cent" had his charter broker contract ATA to fly him and his entourage from JFK to Libreville, Gabon in Africa. I guess he wanted an All Business Class airplane, which we don't have. We gave him what the broker (our real customer) asked for, a 757 with a leather interior and a 12 seat business class cabin. From what my operations rep at JFK told me, he walked onboard...didn't like it and canceled his flight. So....poor guy from the hood wants to go to the motha land, but if he doesn't ride in an all business class jet, it's below him. I'm sure his African Fans who live in real poverty would understand why he felt that way. Nice!
I recently acquired some iTunes. Apple really pissed me off with iTunes. You can't play them on anything but an iPod or Apple's software. I don't own an iPod, so it makes listening to my new CD quality music a real pain in the pooper. They'll allow Mircosoft Windows to be loaded on their Macs...but they dare not let you listen to a 99 cent song on your own non-iPod mp3 player.
Jews and Arabs.....oh those crazy people. It looks like they are doing a fine job on trying to escalate their conflicts into World War Three. Hezbolla, the terrorist organization supported by Syria and Iran and based in southern Lebanon just can't seem to stop firing their rockets into Israel. Yet, so many in the world can't seem to figure out why Israel is firing back in a major way. Maybe because they don't feel like getting fired at and harassed? I would say that after the past several years of suicide bombs and mortar attacks, the Jews have done a noble job of sitting back and keeping their guns down because of international pressures to restrain themselves. So, if they are sick of the attacks and the disrespect from their willingness to create a peaceful land for the Palestinians....let them fire away. I not only commend Israel for what they've put up with....I fully support them if they unleash the full fury they are capable of. "F" the international community's opinion. What does the International community know about creating Peace? Can anyone give me a list of examples? Historically speaking, man has never been able to create peace without war. So, lets finally allow the Jews and the Arabs to duke it out, shed blood, get nasty (just like they and the rest of the world have done for centuries) and in the end, when they are ready...the guns will stop and peace will exist. Sure it won't be a permanent peace....but when and where has Peace ever been permanent? Sure, we'll all feel bad for the innocent victims....but throughout the history of the world, feeling bad for the innocent has never prevented a war....nor will it in the future. It's in the nature of man. This has never been outgrown....and to believe the world has developed to the point that we have outgrown this fact of life is just plain living with your eyes closed. Don't believe me....? Watch time take it's course. Does this make me sound harsh and cynical, sure....but I'm living in Reality. I'm not negative though....I'm looking on the bright side.....every tunnel has a light at the end of it.
I believe it was Poison who sang, "Ride the wind, never coming back until I touch the midnight sun" I have no idea what they hell they mean by that, but it's a cool song from the early 90's and is currently playing on my iTunes player.

July 7, 2006:
My passion for flying is still going strong. I just wish I could do it more often. This week, I've had to postpone twice. Once for weather and then a second time for ATA. ATA took a 24 hour delay last night due to a mechanical problem with the aircraft. This was my first flight out of BWI and wouldn't you know it...a massive delay. Yep, just like old times. I must say though, I've still got the touch. All those years of handling 24-48 hour delays has really given me the experience to handle a delay in a very expeditious manner. Within minutes of ATA's delay notification, I had hotel rooms waiting and passengers on their way to them. Overall, it was a fairly easy night for me. We'll see how tonight goes as it has been a while since I worked a heavy L1011. Though I'd rather be doing my flight lesson, I'm still looking forward to playing with a Lockheed aircraft again.
As I mentioned before, my cousin got married last month. I added the wedding photos that Sheri and I took to this website. Check them out if you want too. Click the link for Eric and Tonya on the left hand side of the page.
I had a relaxing July 4th. Went to a party at Sheri's Aunt and Uncle's house. While I was there, it rained like CRAZY for a little while and we had a kick ass thunder storm. Our dog, Kayn (aka: Hitler, Satan, AssHead, Schmuck, Dildo, Stupid, Dumbass, F$cking A-Hole Dog etc...) is now deathly afraid of thunder in his old age. So when storms roll in as they normally do on an average summer, night. The dog goes nuts. He starts panting like he's been out for a 70 mile run, digging at the floors, pissing in closets and bathrooms and shaking. This has brought us to the point that we have to give him Doggy Valium during every storm to calm him down. Sheri had to leave the party for a while to run home and drug the dog. We both used to love thunder storms. Now, as soon as we hear a rumble, she and I end up worried that the dog is going to destroy the house before we have a chance to drug him. I'll call this reason number 776 as to why I'll never get another dog. Previous reason numbers may also be tied to his nicknames.
This past winter, Sheri got me a gift....A garage door opener! Since I am about a mechanically capable as a blade of grass, her Dad was kind enough to come over and install it for me this past weekend. She got a great deal on it from EBay, however during the install, it was noticed that we're missing a vital part. This unit is a Craftsman, so I thought it would be a great idea for me to go buy one at Sears....pull the part out that I need and return it back to Sears the next day thinking they would never notice. Well, as much as I wanted to be able to park in my garage that night, my conscience got the best of me and I ordered the part from the Sears parts hotline and now I'm waiting for it to arrive. I've waited this long to be able to park inside....what's a few more days?
As politically incorrect and as socially unacceptable it is to talk about body functions. It's really amazing how many people love good poop and fart humor. People generally always react as though they don't like to hear about it using words....yet their actions always involve smiling and laughing. Why....because we share the same dirty ability to shock even ourselves when we wake ourselves up with a loud Thunder Fart or we look down with shock and awe at a brown cabin we built with no hands. I'll bet that if this sick potty humor was more acceptable globally, Maybe North Korea would be launching another kind of missile.

June 23 2006:
My Goodness...no matter how much I want to update this more often, I am usually way too lazy to disconnect my office computer and reconnect my personal computer. Now that I've gotten my excuse out of the way. Allow me to ramble my thoughts. First, I must say that I'm still loving the flight lessons. I may not be as perfect a pilot as I envisioned in my own head, but I'm still able to fly the plane and learn as I go. So, I guess that means I'm just like every other pilot out there. On that front, I'm close to my solo flight. Really, I just need my medical certification and the OK from my instructor. I have a feeling that if I had the medical taken care of, my instructor would have me solo in the next 2 lessons. Opinion only there...I could be wrong.
I have been a very busy boy lately. Last week and this coming week are Indy weeks. 3 days of cubical and hotel room life on West Washington Street in Indianapolis. The corporate mentality is really driving me nuts. I just don't subscribe to that mentality....the Kool Aide or corporate coffee....depending on which term you prefer. Recently, my reps in Kuwait were told to move from a hotel room that had a kitchenette to a standard room. This was a Dollar decision. I do take huge issue with it because I would challenge any on of my bosses from my immediate to the CEO to live in a standard hotel room for 6 months out of the year and not be able to nuke a slice of pizza or cook your own "Beef a Roni." I'm also about 100% sure none of the would accept not being able to keep a soda or water cold for half a year while they live in the middle of the desert and 8000 miles from the nearest US border. I fought the good fight and lost. I just hope the guys who live it every day know that there are management folks that do understand. Frankly, I do understand the importance of cost management, but I also know reality and what life is really like beyond the gray cubical walls of Mother ATA.
Two weeks ago, Sheri and I went to Rhode Island for my cousin Eric's wedding. It was a lovely wedding on a Golf Course. While we were up there, we drove all around RI in a gorgeous car. I was cheap, so I only rented what I thought was going to be a Hyundai. When we arrived at T. F. Green Airport, we walked down to Budget's "Faastrack" Desk and the guy hands me keys to a Caddy DTS...for the same price as a Hyundai. I felt like I won the lottery.
Tonight, I'm sitting in my office at 1045pm. The background music is Dave Brubeck, Take Five. Ahhhh....soothing to the soul. Recently, I purchased some equipment which allows music to be played in every ceiling speaker in my house. I was so cheap in the past, that I didn't run out and buy it. Thank God I finally coughed up the loot. The feeling I get by being able to walk anywhere in my home and listen to music is such a high. It feels good knowing that I designed a system that works and sounds nice. I guess that high I feel is also the high you feel when you finish a project and you take the time to admire and enjoy your work. I can close my eyes, breathe deep and smile.......Accomplishment is such a warm and relaxing high.
I've had a beer after a very long day. My brain is not as functional as I hoped it would be, so unfortunately, this will be kept short. Farewell fans of my website....I'll try to brain dump soon. Huh..."Try" is such a funny word. What does it really mean? What are you doing when your "Trying?"
Three Cheers for my neighbor, Pat. The Man brews a smooth drinking, tasty beer. I'm just wishing I had more.
Quick Advertising....contact me for anything you want to buy. Chances are, I can offer you a great deal. I don't care if it's electronic, home goods, apparel....anything!
Oh yeah....before I sign off. I want to tell the world that Sheri and I played Scrabble last night. I lost! I used to be so good at that game. I guess my brain and my body need some exercise.

May 16, 2006:
Back in the saddle again was a major rush. Having been able to take the controls of that little airplane and fly brought back a sensation that I had missed for a very long time. That being said, the flight lesson went VERY WELL. The instructor was actually shocked at how well I flew and commented several times about how amazed he was that I hadn't flown since 1993. Sure, I let this go to my head a little bit....but hey....I was high on life for a few hours....might as well enjoy the rush! Now, I'm finding myself feeling withdrawal. I have to fly man....I'm an addict now. Because of this new(old) addiction or obsession, the race is on to acquire more funds in order to support my new addiction. EBay, here comes daddy! I don't care what it is, I want to sell it! I've got to fly. At around $130 per lesson, after all taxes and fees, I'm open to all suggestions, donations and any of you airline guys who actually read my site.....I'm open to rep work BIG TIME! So if anyone knows of available money from any source....please feel free to drop me a note. This poor pitiful cockpit junkie will appreciate all the fixes you can throw at him.
And in other news.......
President Bush is sending guard troops to our borders. You have to be freaking kidding me right? More money blown rock star politician style for absolutely NO RESULTS. We've spent Billions over the years in trying to secure the borders by placing more guards and better technology and equipment out on the line. Yet, we still have illegals pouring in. I remember the last time he did something stupid like this. It cost tons of money to have Guard troop stroll through airports and eat cheese burgers after 9/11. They didn't make anything more secure....why....because they didn't have a freaking clue what went into airport security. All they did was look tough....if we want the borders to look tough....let's hang posters of Chuck Norris instead and maybe send our available guard troops over to Iraq to get enough man power in there to finish the damn job! Or maybe....let these guard guys stay with their families instead of wasting time and money trying to prevent the absolutely inevitable!!! I think the president had it right originally with the registered immigrant program, this is yet another attempt by this administration to try and appease a pissed off nation. If I could offer a little advise from a voter to his elected officials. You will never make everyone happy, and the country is already pissed at you anyway, so you might as well do what is right and come up with a logical and functional permanent fix. My name is Tom Brainsky....and I'm running for President. OK, maybe not, but I will use my constitutional right of free speech.

May 12, 2006:
Just got back from vacation and unlike what I previously mentioned, we ended up in Ireland. Sheri and I rented a Toyota Yaris with no hubcaps and the drivers seat on the right side, and we drove all over the southern region of Ireland. Each night, we stayed at a different Bed and Breakfast along our journey and took as many pictures as we could while still making sure my left side of the road driving didn't kill us. This was a fantastic trip! In the typical Tom and Sheri style, we avoided a lot of the tourist trap stuff and stuck to as much local culture and offline site seeing as possible. We did however stop and Kiss the Blarney Stone. At some point, I'll be adding photos to our SheriandTom.com website, but I'm sure that will take place when I have some more time to sit down and update that site too.
I'm very excited at the moment. After years of holding on to my Pilot Log Book with the last entry dating back to July 25, 1993, I've scheduled myself a flight lesson. On Saturday, I'll be taking off once again at the controls of a Cessna 152 for an hour in flight which will hopefully repeat itself enough to achieve my Private Pilot's License within the next year or so. Since I haven't done this in years, I'm looking forward to it with GREAT enthusiasm as I can not wait to see how different the whole experience will feel from an adults perspective instead of a kid. The last time I flew, it was out of Fort Meade Army Airfield in Maryland. That airfield is now public and the flight club I belonged too is long gone. I had to be a member of the Civil Air Patrol to even belong there. Now, I'm flying out of Lancaster Airport as a student with Aero Tech Services. If you ask Sheri, I've been talking about this for a while and have lost sleep just sort of laying there day dreaming about flying again. After thinking about it as much as I have, I couldn't handle putting it off any longer. As long as I still enjoy it as much as I did when I was young, I might be blogging about some new experiences that take place while I'm at the controls. Simply put.....I just can't wait!!!!
Now, off subject and very short.....
I read in the newspaper about all of the candidates for the PA state elections coming up. I don't like to vote on election days without making sure I have some clue as to who stands for what. As it turns out, our incumbent for the State Senate seat in my district made a stand in his tenure. He stood up and voted for a National Sweet Potato day! You have to be kidding me right? PA property taxes are out of this world and everyone in the state who owns property knows it....and in local politics, this issue is HUGE. Yet, this JackHole feels the most important thing on his agenda is making sure we as a nation can recognize the importance of a Sweet Potato. If he were a Democrat, I wouldn't be so angry, but I'm a republican and so is he and it pisses me off to see that people like this guy represent the party in which I belong. At least he did vote against the state congressional pay raise which proves he has at least one working marble in his head. You know, when I lived in Baltimore, I voted for Martin O'Malley for Mayor, and gladly voted against party lines because the guy went to work and while he was there, actually worked. I may have to break with my party's lines again and vote for another person who I hope will do more in office than be even remotely concerned with a freaking sweet potato. Regardless of the fact that I disagree with some of the platform of the Democratic party, nor to I like the rhetoric it mass produces, I am very frustrated with the republican party at this time as I think these guys are asleep at the wheel. Let me be very bold as to say I don't believe the democratic party platform is for a better America....but I do think the republicans may need a wake up call so they can get back to the business of working toward their core beliefs.
I just hope the Republican party can put on their "Big Boy Pants" and get a candidate for president in 2008 who'll not only win, but can swing the party back towards Reagan era values. If only Reagan had a line item veto....then it would hard for even the critics to shift blame. Oh and by the way....my section on Blame may be found on March 14, 2006.

May 1, 2006:
Yet another long period of time between blogs. I guess it's a good thing that I'm so busy. But I do enjoy being able to "Brain Dump" once in a while and let the entire universe know what is rolling through that twisted tissue called my brain. What is going through my head at the moment? Well, I just read an article about the immigration issue. All the illegal are walking out of work today to protest laws that restrict being illegal. I'm sure many Americans will agree with me. THIS IS STUPID!!!! We are now arguing about how to make illegals, illegal. How much more illegal can illegal get? If you're illegal then your not legal, so does this mean that some of our elected offcials are working on plans to make people, "Not Not Legal? That being the case, this would automatically make a current illegal into a double negative and therefore a positive and now....Legal....right???? OK, maybe not, but the whole subject is getting a it out of control. Now, I've been a Bush fan, then I've turned and been sickened by Bush's policies. I will however say that I agree with the man on this one. Rounding everybody up and dropping them off on the other side of the border is quite possibly the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard in dealing with the MILLIONS of illegals in this country. To further another Bush point....they do work that we Americans believe is below us, because we do spend way too much time these days thinking that we're somehow above hard and dirty labor. Maybe it's the Unions who tell so many of us that hard work is below us....maybe it's the Tech era that replaced hammers with keyboards....I don't know. What I do know is that we are in denial if we think that American jobs are risked by Mexicans crossing the boarders and are helping Americans to cut grass, flip burgers, clean hotel linens, etc... Sorry folks...we Americans are just a bit too arrogant and lazy to do such tasks. Face it, the illegals might not be here legally, but they do what so many of us will NOT do. So, let's leave them here, give them a chance to be legal, register them and collect tax money. Maybe after we've decided to do what's right and not ridiculous, we can then work on the next hurdle....slowing the influx of illegals...again....register them and get their tax money! They'll come in anyway...might as well let them contribute to our nations bottom line.
So, where have I been lately. I've recently done a charter trip for the WWE. They chartered ATA to haul the wrestlers all over Europe for their "Wrestlemania Revenge Tour." This was probably one of the most challenging and fun assignments I've had. The Wrestlers themselves are for the most part, very nice. I can only describe the majority of them by saying that they are all pretty egotistical, really nice people without a lot of intelligence. Some are brighter than others. Some are not as friendly as others and some are just down right Damn Good People. My trip took me all over Europe. We went to:
Bologna; Milan; Birmingham; Pisa; New Castle, Cardiff, Belfast, Brussels, Stansted, Cologne, Stuttgart and Berlin. Not too bad for 10 days.
Now, Sheri and I are doing some very last minute planning for a vacation in Europe. We are going to fly over to Europe Wedneday night 2 days away....and still have no idea where we'll be going when we get there. We were originally planning on a road trip across Ireland, but now we're looking at possibly staying in Malta. I just don't know where we'll end up.
We also did some yard work this weekend around the house. I must say that I still....do not take any pleasure in yard work. Funny when you think about it....I know there are plenty of illegals out there who would jump at the chance to do what Sheri and I did this weekend....and probably do it better.

March 14, 2006:
The ATA Airlines Charter Crazy Train keeps on rolling. This past weekend, we had more charter flights than I've seen in a very long time. Overall, we did well. Some minor delays, but as far as I'm concerned, with all that activity, we kicked butt! My management structure changed about a month ago and I'm now working for a guy I used to work for about 2 years ago. Great guy to work with. I'll say this....I've been very lucky over the past 2 years when it comes to managers. I've only had 1 I didn't fit well with and even he didn't bother me to much. The stress level has been elevated to "Code Orange" with charters running Seattle, Dallas, Charlotte and Las Vegas. Seattle has been pretty problematic with the military and because that manager answers to me, I get the privilege of feeling the same stresses that she does. Dallas provides a disgustingly healthy income for ATA and therefore, if a soldier farts incorrectly due to a tear in a passenger waiting area seat, ATA reacts as though the world is going to fall apart. As for Vegas and Charlotte, we just completed some rotations for NASCAR and did fairly well until a crew showed up late in Vegas and the passengers were stuck waiting in the cold (ironic....cold weather in Vegas???) Again, any form of passenger discomfort....even if it's minor and the whole company goes into a tizzy with some finger pointing....as if that's going to fix anything!
Now my ramble about finger pointing. Allow me to step up onto my freshly cleaned soap box. {Ah-chem} The Blame Game is so freaking pointless! We all do it, I'm just a guilty as the next guy. But when you step back from it and look at it....there is no reason on earth as to why you or anybody should waste any time at all placing blame. Why???? Because it doesn't accomplish a damn thing! So what if a person made a mistake....we all make mistakes. There is no winners in the Blame Game. You can point the finger today, yet you'll screw something up tomorrow and have the finger pointed at you. What have you won....Nothing? Does it ever really matter "Who did what?"....Think about it....once that finger is pointed successfully and you've found the culprit, then what? What comes next? What have you proved by participating in the blame game....only that you know how to waste time and energy on a worthless cause. The Blame Game takes place all day and all night....all over the world. From politics and business to families and friends. I'd be curious if we could ever accurately quantify how much time and energy has been spent trying to accuse mistake makers of their mistakes? In a perfect world (for which we do not exist) can you imagine for one delusional moment what good could be done in this world if all that time and energy would be spent constructively? Allow me to point the finger at what could be the root cause of this global Blame epidemic....Milton Bradley! I believe this all came from childhood when we learned to point our fingers at our opponents and say..."YOU SUNK MY BATTLESHIP!" Before I step off my soap box, I will add that this really does not apply to criminal behavior as we have a legal system to deal with those elements of human errors in judgment. I will now step down from my soap box.
Three Cheers for Hasbro....Thanks for Scrabble!

January 17,2006:
Hello to anyone of my website fans that has been missing my updates. I'm deeply sorry if you missed my babbling and thought droppings.
So far, this year has kept me very busy. Over the past few weeks, I've developed and scheduled a who new, and very thorough training program for all direct employee and contracted ground operations reps for ATA. This week, I've spent much of my time trying to coordinate bringing in to Indianapolis, almost 60 people from all over the world. Today, I was on the phone with people from the UK, Japan and Guam. Yesterday, I was working on letters for Visa Waivers for the reps who handle ATA in Hungary. Did I ever picture myself doing a job like this or being involved in something that involved so much Global cooperation?...Hell no! Back when I was younger, I didn't envision anything like this...all I wanted to do was be rich and drive a Corvette. Well, I'm not rich, and I own a piece of shit Honda Accord, that hasn't been hand washed since the day I bought it. Yet, I still feel very rewarded in how my life has gone so far.
Tomorrow, I get my eyes checked for the first time since I was a little kid. I have no idea what they are going to tell me. I can still see, so, obviously that's a good thing.
So many questions from people about how is the house. Well, the house is great. We've been in it since September and finally have paint on some of our walls. It's been a slow process, but it's feeling like home. My office in particular looks great and it's been a wonderful place to work from. I just wish I could do everything involving my job from here...sometimes. I mean let's be real.....Training people in Italy...or sitting in my home office...naturally the travel part is more exciting. I still spend time in Indianapolis, though I don't think it's been too bad. Considering I've really only been there a total of 4 days in the last 4 weeks. February will keep me there more often though. I've got 2 training sessions that will keep me there at least 4 days each. How bad can it really be...only being in Indy for 8 days out of a month? That is of course all I have scheduled for Indy in Feb...always open for change.
OK, Sheri will be coming home soon and we're going to go out and get some groceries. We're holding a little "Game Night" with our new and old neighbors at the Brainsky Crizizib (Crib - In Mocha terms). I say that with humor, since I heard the Honorable Mayor of New Orleans yesterday announce that New Orleans should be rebuilt as a "Chocolate Community." What the "F - Bomb" is that? I'm so un-racial, that when I first heard it, I pictured a candy land environment in my head...then it finally clicked. Here is a Black Man saying that town should be rebuilt as a black town. Can you imagine a white man saying that New Orleans should be rebuilt as a "Vanilla Community?" That poor Honkey would be dragged through the streets by every black activist between Africa and Compton. What a world we do live in....At least there is ALWAYS something to laugh about.

December 5, 2005:
Seems like I just don't update the web as much as I used too. Either too much is keeping my busy, or too little isn't worth mentioning. Well...where to begin?
I've been on an earning kick lately. Much of my time has been spent trying to focus on the part of my life that involves, "bringing home the bacon." ATA's given me some tough challenges and I've enjoyed them greatly. Been involved in policy decisions that I only used to criticize those that made them. Am I becoming one of "them?" It's amazing how much and how little does get done in the corporate world. Lots of meetings, telcons, emails, etc...yet...Nobody can seem to identify solutions to problems and implement them in a halfway decent amount of time. But hey, at least we're busy right? Very unique to me! Being a "field guy," I never gave to much care to what might take place in bringing the policy and decisions down to us in the field. Realistically speaking, we could probably all spend more time with our families and out on the golf course if we would all just make a damn decision and implement it already!
Other than that, I've had a cold for the past few days. Have I ever mentioned that I hate being sick? Well, here it is in writing...I hate it! When I get sick, I try to do as little as possible so that my body can get the rest it's telling me that it needs. As I've rested, I spent a fair amount of time flying online with Microsoft's Flight Simulator. Ha...I'm a damn good pilot when I want to be!
Tonight, they are calling for snow...I hate it when "They" do that. 2-4 inches is what "they" are talking about. Well, if I had my way, I would tell "them" to shove that snow up "their" whoosimawhatsies. That's right, bah humbug, I hate snow. Don't get me wrong, I am still the Christmas Jew, it's the snow that really turns me off. Sure, the snow is pretty to look at, but by day 2, all you want to do is have it melted and go back to 70 degree temps.
Alrighty then....This has been an update and I am outta here.

November 20, 2005:
Though nothing can bring back my grandmother, Helen Brainsky, at least memories of you will live on among all of those souls that you have touched.
Many thanks to everyone who has taken the time from their busy lives to offer sympathy, support and compassion to my family.
Life has begun to wind down to normal levels again after a week of pain, loss and a few hectic days in the ATA Glass Palace. As a matter of fact, I'm home and today, I'll likely spend a lot of time simply cleaning out the garage to make some room for our cars. When you stand back and look at life's ups and downs...cleaning out the garage is just simple enough to enjoy. The big question for today is, where are we going to put all that "S###?"
Now that I sit down and think, it's really be a few hectic months. It's really crazy how much I crave the mundane. I feel my mouth watering at the chance to chill out on the couch and watch the tube, or jump online and play with my flight simulator. I'd really love the chance to just drink wine and play some board games with my wife. Over the past few months, every time I'm home, all I do is either stuff that needs to get done, or relax and recharge for the next week. Sure this is the same busy life we all have, but the stress of being on the road all the time adds a little extra spice to the recipe. On the flip side though....I still very much enjoy the hustle and bustle lifestyle that I've been living (for years) and I guess, just like in the past....I look forward to a break once in a while. Ehh....not sure if I made sense or just contradicted myself there...but who cares...these are my head's ramblings and if I can't do anything else in life, at least I can ramble on.
I must also note that I'm very proud of my friend Craig. After a brutal breakup with is wife due to her own issues and the immoral "humpfest" she has shared with her estranged lover, Craig has found the strength within himself to find truth and cope with the painful reality of those true findings. His attitude is that of a man hurt, and now healing. He appears to harbor little to no bitterness, for which most people would not be as capable. His heart belongs to God and he is following both God's teachings and his spirit. Craig, I am honored to have you in my life....the example you set forth is nothing short of miraculous. Keep it up man, God hasn't let you down and so far and I have a feeling that your soul is going to soar beyond your dreams.

November 13, 2005:
Very sad night tonight. My grandmother past away today. She was wonderful to me in my lifetime. She was always there for me and cared about me. I used to love to call her or see her just to see how happy she would get at the sound of my voice or the sight of me standing at her door. She taught me the meaning of family. The woman believed that family was the most important thing in the world. So many people place importance on time, money, material belongings...she would drop all of it to honor and enjoy family. In the past few years her physical and mental health has deteriorated and her heart just wasn't able to keep going. I love you grandma....and my prayers are for a peaceful eternity for your soul. Though you left your husband and soul mate behind, his health and mental being are fading too and with God's will you both will reunite soon and spend the rest of eternity together again.
God Bless you....All of my Love,
Your first Grandson....Tom

October 18, 2005:
Spent the first half of the day working from home and operating in the mindset of the new job. Spent the latter half of the day in my old office clearing it out. It's amazing how much crap one can accumulate and store in one room. It's also amazing how many memories flash by you as you pass by pictures and letters of moments that made an illustrious and low paying career worth it's weight in gold. I only wish I had a scanner so I could share them. Not only do I have pictures of Jeff and I standing around a Light Rail Train that crashed into the terminal, I have pictures of when it crashed into the terminal for a second time over a year later! I've even got a picture of a ProAir Station Manager with Fluffy on his lap and his tongue in Fluffy's ear. Ahh...the good old days of fun times in the cheeseball airline's offices. Brings back memories of Miss Melton and Fluff Daddy's first and last date to the movies. However he'll be the first to contest that it was a date. And what ever did happen to the infamous "Wally Couch?" Who ever thought that combing was a fetish? One could never forget Sgt Driscoll "Airborne" and his ability to fly down a jetway and crash into the door at the bottom. Nor would anyone who knows him, ever forget how Supervisor Fares could pull the skin from his neck so far from his body while contemplating which flight to send Gabe to work.
Alas, Hice and Myself still maintain our employment with what was once American Trans Air, just doing far different jobs; Driscoll is at the pentagon; Heger the sole hero at World Airways BWI; Melton is probably operating a toll booth (which is perfect for her personality and customer service skills); Fares is walking the halls of Southwest; Wally is enjoying her retirement, along with Sue V. "Battlecat"; ProAir is long gone and Craig Belmondo sells mortgages now; ATA is surviving in bankruptcy and "Frankfurt Friday" has been a memory for years.
What makes the airport such a great place to work, is that all of the stories and memories that I hold, thousands of others have similar stories....but with different names and faces. Events at the airport that bring such memories have taken place long before my time, and will continue long after I'm gone. That lifestyle is something that can never be fully described, nor can it be fully understood. The only way to get it, is to live it and to live it and stay with it. To live it means you've got to love it and if you love it you've got to be out of your mind cause it's never going to pay you shit. BUT.....it will reward you in ways that no other job will ever come close to doing. I was warned back in the beginning that it's going to get into your blood. That is a phrase you will commonly hear from an aviation employee...and it couldn't be more true. As somber as it is to close out the home of so many memories, it's also very rewarding to look back and smile at what has taken place.

October 17, 2005:
I have changed my personal email address to: thomas@brainsky.com. Please make a note of it as all of my other personal email addresses are being shut down. I should be local to PA/MD this week. I'll be closing down the BWI Operations offices (the office where I grew up in this industry.) Aside from keeping busy with work, not too much else is happening. Sheri and I had a nice dinner with her parents last night. She makes an excellent baked potato soup, and I helped...I cut onions and potatoes. What can I say, I'm a gourmet. Oh and how can I forget?...I also cooked up some sausages on the grill last night. I do love the grill. Maybe it's a man thing....maybe it's a nostalgic thing from the days of cub scout camp fires...maybe it's the sweet smell of meat, smoke and beer....maybe all of the above....no matter what....I love cooking on the grill.
My good friend, Rick Gray and his wife have recently welcomed their first child into the world. IT'S A BOY!!!! Timothy is a lucky boy, he's got a great set of parents and I wish them all the best.

October 14, 2005:
Man, sure has been some long stretches between postings here. To say that I've been busy is an understatement. Whether it be Indy or SEATAC...or my mom's wedding in Connecticut, the fact is, I've been away from my computer and therefore and obviously, unable to update my page. I do enjoy being able to give my thoughts to the world and I'm sorry I haven't been updating as much as I might like too.
You know, there is something very therapeutic to just writing out your thoughts. It's nice to be able to get them out and in turn, let them go. It's educational, I read my prior postings and realized just how nice it is to type it out and be able to look back and realize how the feelings I've had about previous thoughts can change over time. The stress and frustration I may have felt in the past is not there when I read about my past. Instead, it's a feeling of reflection and appreciation for the progress, understanding, ability to deal with and learning from what I've experienced.
Example: Though I still hurt when I think about little Jack being gone, instead of tears at the thought of it, I now feel as though I miss him, love him and feel a little empty without him. Still, progress has been made in the handling of loss...as I'm able to think about it while maintaining normal composure. His loss and return are out of my control, I miss him but there isn't much more I can do about it, so life... with all it's good and bad will continue to drive forward. Little Jack, you're in my prayers...I love you.
OK, that's enough depth for the time being. Today is Friday...and tonight I'm going to cook my wife a good dinner and hopefully relax and enjoy each other's company. When will I update again....hell if I know, but I do know this....I love my life, and I love my wife and at the end of the day, rich or poor...I'm living the high life....because God gave me the chance to do it! Thanks big guy, your gift is deeply appreciated. Live well and cherish the gift that you've been given.

September 30, 2005:
What a horrible move to the new house we had! My friends were late, the truck was a 26' Diesel stick shift Uhaul from 1978 and the topping on the poop cake was that our little cat, Jack, ran away. He adopted me when I first started seeing Sheri. She had him for 4 years and when he met me, he let opened up his scared little heart to me. We pray and look for him at the old house every day with the faith and hopes that he'll return to our family. God, if you read websites...I'm praying for a miracle! Aside from the move and the heartache, we are now fully and finally in the new home. It's not very unpacked yet, due to our attempts to reunite with Jack and our generally busy schedules. This weekend, we're probably going to do some heavy unpacking and I'm looking forward to it. The place doesn't feel like home yet. The good news is that I've finally got the internet and therefore a home phone working, though that project is still not complete throughout the house.
Tonight is my last official ATA Airlines departure from BWI. As of October 1st, I'll fully take over as Charter Services Manager and oversee BWI, as well as every other offline city we fly to worldwide. And speaking of the new job, it's kept me very busy. Definitely in a good way though...really have had a great time with the challenges. It's provided me much needed brain stimulation in the working world sense. Work will also have me in Seattle next week with a whole new challenge. We've got to open up a station with minimal resources...should be a great time. Hice will be with me to help out, so hopefully it won't go too poorly. We turned BWI into a great place for ATA to operate out of...SEATAC is just another chance to work on our skills.
Hard to believe it's fall...even harder to believe that the stores are so fully of Christmas stuff. I think it's a bit early for that, but that's just my opinion. I've got to get ready for work, so I'll stop now.

September 24, 2005:
During the closing on our new home yesterday, our real estate agent made it possible to meet with Mark Will, of the Mark Will Team, Coldwell Banker Homesale Group. She recognized and felt terrible about how our walk through went and how we were treated. I have to thank our agents, Missy McMahon and Doug Miller for doing what they could to make right, something that went very wrong. A very big thank you to Mark Will himself. He was more than fair, easy to talk too and showed that he really cared about his customers. Mark, if you ever Google your name and stumble across this page, Thank you. If Sheri and I do anything else in real estate again (within your territory), you just earned us back as customers...and after our walk through, I'm not sure that ever would have been possible. Kudos to the entire group that helped us buy our first home together. Thank you...Doug Miller, Mark Will, C & F Construction, and especially our Agent, Missy McMahon and Mortgage Consultant, Linda Kosich.
OK....now the bad news. This website will not be updated for at least a week as our services won't be hooked up in the new home until the end of next week. Why the delay, well...I was lazy and didn't sign up for cable early enough. Be good...and feel free to check out my good friend's Blogs for entertainment while I'm offline. http://www.jeffhice.com/ or http://www.obanair.com/
9:42L September 22, 2005:
I received a sad phone call from Jeff Hice this evening. Dawn Dalton, Station Manager for British Airways in Baltimore was killed in a car accident today. Though I can not say Dawn and I were close friends, she was always very kind to me. Whether it be greetings in the halls or the ramp, or her generosity with pass travel....she was really a First Class individual. My prayers are with Dawns family, friends and co-workers tonight. She was always a smiling face in our small community of managers on the International Pier and she will be missed.

September 22, 2005:
I can't say that I ever enjoyed the process of moving. So much to do and it seems like never enough time to do it. Sure, if moving was the only thing you had to worry about, it wouldn't be a big deal, but when you have a job that takes up a lot of your time, moving becomes an even bigger pain in the WHAZOO. And speaking of a A**Holes....
We had our walkthrough on our new home yesterday. This was facilitated by our real estate agent and the builder's representative. This representative, Jeff Kurtz was quite possibly the greatest ASSHOLE that I've ever come across in my lifetime. Notice, I went for the full blown spelling there....yeah...He earned it. I swear, his mother should have aborted his arrogant ass and done her part to make the world a better place. This guy had no problem telling us that whatever we found broken, was acceptable and what ever was poorly done, was just what the neighbors got so therefore it's OK. During the entire process, the Mark Will Team, from Coldwell Banker (The agency contracted by the builder to manage the sales of the neighborhood) was always consistent with the concept that, "If it's on the plans, then it will be done." Yeah, until our walk through, when Mr. BigBalls Kurtz tells you that he's sorry that it's different from the plans, but deal with it. I'm the damn customer, so when I ask a simple logical question consistent with the policy they have upheld since day one, his response was...and I quote: "You can keep questioning and getting yourself all worked up, but it's not going to change a thing, Like I said, the builder isn't going to fix the mistake...you're just going to have to deal with it." Now, this was his attitude with everything Sheri and I found wrong, not just one or two items. When I requested that he put it on his "Punchlist" as something wrong, he refused. Funny, just after the walk through, I happened to bump into the builder himself. Wouldn't you know it, his attitude was the polar opposite. "Well, well do what we can to make everything right for you." Sheri and I were kind enough to share with the builder our thoughts on how their contracted representation handles their customers. Will it make a difference, probably not...but it did feel a bit better after the Anal Rogering with no lubricant.
And finally, Sheri closed on her home last night. For the first time in her life, she's now a renter (for about 8 days) until we're totally moved out of here and cleaned up. She showed no stress as she signed her papers and legally waved goodbye to the beautiful home she has inhabited for so long. I know in her heart, it hurts to leave...and after that walkthrough, probably isn't feeling to grand about the new home at the moment. But, I'm very proud of her for being as strong as she was and knowing how much it hurts her inside to leave.

September 20, 2005:
Obviously a long time since my last update. I wish I could fill the world in on everything that's taken place. First I'll say that the honeymoon was amazing! As with everything I do in life, nothing is perfect...but mistakes aside, I can say that neither of us have ever been to a more beautiful place. If you are considering a vacation....don't pass up Bora Bora if you can make it....it's worth every penny.
Upon returning from our Honeymoon, I came back to a home that was broken into and robbed. Yep, my home in Baltimore was maliciously attacked at the hands of an A**Holes. Not only did he get away with many of my roommate's most important personal items, including his laptop that held the past 3 years of his life, but the bad guy got me too. He took my grandfather's first SLR 35mm camera and a watch that my grandmother gave me...that used to belong to him. Ironically though, they didn't steal my laptop (which was in clear view.) It was hard to go in and clean up. It was hard to see my place ransacked and turned upside down. On a brighter note however, I would like to offer my thanks to the low life pieces of crap for not breaking a single thing.
Work - What can I say....I'm busy as all hell. I've taken on the new job and I feel as though I've hit the ground running. Just spent a couple days in Indianapolis (IND) that were eye opening, educational, filled with problems to solve and I can't forget...meetings. Overall, I will say that I'm enjoying the challenge immensely. The challenge is HUGE! I have had my hands in every conceivable aspect of charter all over the world...and that was just in the past couple days. I now feel as though I'm a player in a game that is far greater than me. It will go on with or without me....and my job isn't to make it happen...but to make it better.
Sheri closes on her house tomorrow and then we close on the new home on Friday. We'll start doing some moving Friday and Friday night, but the main transfer of belongings will take place on Saturday afternoon.
Random thought for the moment - I love my wife! What can I say...she's wonderful. We had a great conversation when I got home from work....she rubbed my shoulders and scalp, if not for any reason, but to show me that she loves me. She talked to me and made me feel cared for and supported and let me know that she wants me to be happy. Considering she's not a fan of my IND commuting....well....again...I love my wife. Sheri, I know you read this sometimes and my message to you is....I love you!

August 28, 2005:
I thought I would squeeze in a few more of my thoughts before I depart for my honeymoon. First of all, if anyone hasn't heard by now, the wedding was as close to perfect I think a wedding can get. Not only was it elegant, it was also cozy, intimate, relaxed and fun. There was a lot of love in that wedding, from family members and friends alike. I spent most of the day quite nervous. Not because I was having second thoughts, but because I just wanted the weather to hold up, the ceremony to go flawlessly and to remember exactly where and when I needed to be. Though there were so many moments of heart pounding emotions for me that day, one of the most important to me was when I saw my bride make her way down the aisle. From the moment that she stood next to me and held my hand...all anxiety immediately faded away as I felt as though my partner was there to save the day. She was gorgeous! Her smile warmed my soul as she looked me in the eye while we faced each other. I will never in my life forget being able to see how happy she was to be with me and how well she expressed her love to me while reading her vows. I'll put up a link to a guest's digital picture site so you can see some photos. He also has some work related photos so if something seems odd...don't ask me. I'm anxiously awaiting the professional photos from our incredible photographer, Amanda Kraft. Whether it was looking at my wife, kissing, dancing or laughing with her....I just can't describe the absolute comfort and joy I have in my heart.
The wedding was so full of moments. I'll cherish them all for as long as my brain will allow me to remember. My deepest thanks go to my Best Man...Mr. Robert Bunker. Your friendship has filled my life with joy and laughter from the first day I met you...and your toast brought tears to my eyes and I love you for it. Regardless of time and distance....I love you brother! The band was outstanding, as well as our wedding musicians, the cake, the food, the helpful service and a special thanks to Ashley for saving the Band by running home to pick up her own personal stereo so they could play CD's during their breaks. Honestly, I could go on for hours and try and recap each moment, but I don't have the time, nor the energy.
I will close by saying that August 27th was definitely the greatest day of my life. I am now looking forward to a lifetime of love as I share the rest of my days with my beautiful and loving wife...Mrs. Sheri Brainsky.
I'll be going on my honeymoon and won't return until at least September 12th.

August 23, 2005: As the wedding gets closer and with the honeymoon shortly after, I don't expect to be making many changes to the website. I do however intend to add lots of pictures to http://www.sheriandtom.com/ when I get back. She and I bought a new Digital Video Camera a few days ago. We're hoping to get some footage from Bora Bora as it's highly unlikely that we'll ever be able to afford going back. Jeff and I were able to do a fake flight this morning. Again, it's silly as all hell, but it's so close to the real thing and quite fun for us aviation junkies.
Jake is out of my place in Baltimore and I'm not sure when Jeff and his brother are going to swap. The place is still standing and I have to admit...as ugly as my couch is, it does make for a good bed when needed.
The dog is still standing too. Though he did spend one night at the vet and have an IV in his arm, he's doing just fine and is now back to normal. He's so happy to be able to chase his toys around the house and make me beg him to go to the bathroom. Let's not forget to mention how thrilled he is to bark at the UPS truck as it drives by.
This might be my last update for a while. I have two things I want to say before I drop offline for a while.
1. I want to clarify what I was saying regarding divorce in my last update. I think I might have left some people confused. By saying that I fear Divorce, I'm saying that I've seen it up close and personal...and it's certainly not a happy thing. What I also wanted to express is that instead of allowing fear to control me and my actions, I instead choose to go forward with my marriage. I choose not to allow fear and negative thoughts to prevent me from extending my hand to Sheri with all the love that I can share and vowing to overcome the negative that this world throws at you....and to work with her and share with her all the good that we can discover in our lives together.
2. Just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who's been patient with me in my inability to make enough time to see them lately. It is truly my greatest hope that after the wedding, the job and the house begin to stabilize and life starts to become a little more routine...that I will once again be able to share some time with you all who I miss so dearly. Thank you my friends....I love you all.

August 19, 2005:
Upon discovering that the dog ate 13 chocolate bars and wrappers last night, I asked Sheri if we should get his stomach pumped. She said "No" and from that point on it's been Upchuck city! My teeth now have their "Bridal Shine." Went to the dentist yesterday and have my teeth cleaned. Krissy at Elizabethtown Dental did a great job cleaning, sanding, buffing, etc...and when Dr. Serafin (My Dental Hero) checked me out, I was given two thumbs up. NO PROBLEMS with my teeth. That honestly has been my best dental visit since I was a child. This is where I give Elizabethtown Dental a plug. Being as though I've been deathly afraid of dentistry for over 8 years, I can actually say that when I finally went back to the dentist, these folks were more gentle than I could ever ask for. They took someone who literally was letting his teeth rot out of his head because of fear....and not only helped me relax with dentistry, they made me trust it again. Thank you E-Town Dental. Should anybody reading this have any fears like I had of dentistry, it's worth the drive. I've got a healthy smile to prove it!
It's now 1 week and a day before I walk down the aisle with Sheri. People are asking if I'm nervous yet. Not yet....I've got a few more days left before I might start feeling nervous. I am completely comfortable with the idea that I'll be married to Sheri. The only thing I do fear is Divorce. Being a child of a divorce and knowing so many people who have gone through it, I know that it's the last thing I ever want to happen to Sheri and I. So I guess, I'm not nervous about the wedding...just scared in a way because in order to get a divorce, you have to be married. Once I'm married, I'm automatically eligible for a divorce. I guess I'll wrap up by saying that I'm a week and a day from taking my vows and in turn, Sheri and I will take our leap of faith. Faith that our commitment will last and that we'll be able to take a step back when the fire burns to hot...cool off and talk out issues through.
And speaking of vows....I really need to write mine!

August 18, 2005:
I've had several people mention that I should have a feedback section to my website. I'm in complete agreement...I just haven't figured out how to make it work yet. For now, we'll just say that feature will be added at a later date.
I love my life! You know, it's amazing how many times in my life that I have been blessed with a positive outcome when life looks like it's headed straight for the toilet. The verdict is in and I'm accepted a position within ATA. As of August 16th, I'm the Charter Services Manager. The job is based in Indianapolis, however they are going to let me set up and manage it out of my home. I'll only need to travel to Indy as needed and of course it also will involve some other travel to points all over from time to time. I can't say that I could've asked for anything more. A raise would've been nice, but for a company in bankruptcy, this is far better than well wishes and a lay off. As Rob Bunker always says...and is right on the mark, "It all works out for the best."
What is so crazy is that on the same day, or night rather, I received a disturbing phone call from my dear friend, Craig. He said his wife has been cheating on him with the landscaper. Not only that, but she packed up, left him, moved in with the new guy and asked for a divorce. They say every story has three sides. His, Hers and THE TRUTH. Craig, I love you brother...you're in my thoughts and prayers. Most of all, I'm proud of you for how you've handled this mess. Who you are today goes back to that chat we had at the Chinese restaurant that night and I don't think you, Chris, myself or anybody else would have predicted how much progress you made and how far you've come. Again, sometimes when you don't expect it...Rob's phrase can ring true. 'It all works out for the best."
So, the roller coaster of life continues. It's highs are heaven and it's lows are hell....but what matters most is that you pay attention, learn and enjoy it as much as you can.

August 12, 2005:
I've been spending a lot of time lately thinking about what should come next in my career. Since it's extremely likely that ATA will be closing down operations at BWI for quite a while, it's left me with the question...."What comes next?" The company has approached me about taking charge of Charter Support, which would be a really nice upgrade to me resume. The downside is that I'll be making the same LOW salary that I made years ago since I've been hit with pay cuts and pay freezes....and the Job is based in Indianapolis, which means I'd be doing some commuting each week. I'm also considering an all out change in fields. I'm interested in Real Estate or Mortgage lending....so I'm doing some research to see if I'd really fit well into those fields. I've had the privilege to LOVE what I do for so long, it's hard to look another direction. Though I certainly will never dispute my love of aviation, I have to remember how that love started. Believe it or not, it started out of hatred. The last thing I wanted to do was work at an airport...but I needed a roof over my head and it was the only offer. Though it barely paid the bills and the hours were long...I ended up loving it. So, I'm now questioning....has my affair with big planes run it's course? Is it time once again to move onto something different? Do I stick around a little longer and give the resume another boost while I wait for something new? Honestly, I just don't know. The only thing I'm VERY sure of is that whatever I do next....it was probably meant to be and like everything in my life, even if I fail, I'll succeed in some form and it will guide me to the next turn. Beyond my utter confusion about my next step, I've got my home in Baltimore Rented, so until I move to York...I've got a nightmare commute everyday (though York isn't much better.) Hice is still In Italy and my schedule is so full right now that I can't even find or make time to have dinner with Rob. Bobby Boy....once you do move into your new home and have an extra bed for me to crash in...I'm coming for Scrabble, Chili and Wine...and I promise you....your new Toilets will NEVER be the same. And finally...I need a haircut!

August 9, 2005:
Decided to shorten the name of the website soon to simply....."Brainsky.com." I've owned that name now for a few months and considering I had to wait 2 years for a Chinese company to stop paying for it so I could have it, I might as well use it. This will be a short one today as I've got to pack up my room at my crib in B'more and then go to work. I'm renting out my room there to an ATA Mechanic for a month or two. Desperate times call for desperate measures. Turns out both he and I were desperate. And speaking of desperate, I've just spoken with the real estate agent who is helping Sheri and I with building the new house. We had some recess lights installed over our breakfast bar, but they really look stupid so now I'm desperately trying to have them ripped out before too much progress is made. Now I really need to cut this short so I can go to the neighborhood and see exactly what has been done and if there is anything more I can do to resolve this. I guess life can't be too bad if this qualifies as a major problem. Sometimes it's the little issues in life that help keep you in check.

August 8, 2005:
After much of my own interest in the "Blogs" of others, I've decided to add some lasting random thoughts and commentary on my own website. Some may say that this is unoriginal and not very creative...I say to you. "Some four letter words followed by the phrase...I don't care." Speaking of four letter words...have you noticed lately that Radio DJ's are swearing a lot? They are not using the full words, but I hear all the time (on 105.7 Baltimore's Talk Radio) DJ's swearing with letters, ie. "S" or "A-holes". The really interesting thing with this new way of maintaining your potty mouth is that it can really blend well with a discussion. I've been doing it more lately too...It's great...I'm swearing like a sailor....yet I haven't said a swear word. All of a sudden...my mouth is cleaner than it used to be. DJ's complain heavily about the new regulations mandated from the FCC as infringements on their freedom of speech. I personally don't mind it too much, in fact, since I've been swearing in acronym, I feel like a better person. And so I say cleanly...."F" the FCC!
I also have to admit that I've been a bad boy lately. Sheri has been killing herself with tasks for the wedding and to be honest...I've taken a very laid back approach. So laid back that I really haven't done Jack "S." What is so funny is that she lit into me for my lack of assistance and general concern...and I fought her tooth and nail. Only to realize that I was arguing the truth!!!! When it comes to the truth, it's a hard one to fight, so I finally owned up to my sheer lazy behavior and once again...there is peace on earth. The source of my distraction for task is....and say what you want here....virtual airlines. I've been playing Microsoft Flight Simulator on the network using virtual real Air Traffic Control and have been upgraded to Captain for the AFA, the virtual airline. Jeff Hice got me into this thing and as cheesy as it is...it's also pretty freaking cool. So for the time being, I'm going to limit my fake flight hours and "Git r Done!" And on that note...let the planning continue.