Scott's Life...Thoughts, Ramblings, and More.

2007-08-15T21:31:00.000-05:00

Welcome Back
A long time coming...I've been away on typepad and wordpress and here I am back at home on Blogger.

Loyalty runs deep...alliances run shallow

2007-01-04T14:00:00.000-06:00

It never ceases to amaze me how people use other people to get what they want. I'm not referring to bitching at the cashier at the grocery store to get your gallon of milk for $2.15 instead of $2.35...I'm talking about people being manipulative in ways that could be hurtful and have long term lasting effects. In the past week I have witnessed people stringing each other along, with alterior motives to end things once they get what they want. It's sad that I have to sit by and watch this scharade...it's pathetic really.

The Fifth Degree

2006-12-31T19:09:00.000-06:00

Oh, my goodness...we're traveling near Rawlins, WY and the
temperature indicator in the truck say it's five degrees outside.
That is the coldest that I have ever been in. I was sitting in the
jump seat talking to Jake and I could just feel the frigidness eating
away at my arm through the window.

Bad Treo

2006-08-30T19:30:00.000-05:00

It's amazing how a brand new device that fails, again and again, can really kill your enthusiasm for for a company and a hobby. I have used both Palm and Pocket PC devices for the past 6 years and after all that time I know what to expect from the different companies and their products. This time, the Treo 700p has changed all that...specification and feature-wise, it's a wonderful idea, but the final product itself is horrible. I've already had to return one because the earpiece went out, then the speaker, then the microphone, then the headset jack. Its replacement refuses to work whenever you load any piece of software on it. A $700 piece of junk...I am hoping that Sprint will either replace it with a working model this time, or allow me to downgrade to a different phone, because after all I've gone through, I don't even want to deal with a Treo, much less a Palm...I don't even visit the websites I used to anymore because the thrill is gone, so is the dependability. I will say this, my Palm TX is still reliable and faithful, but the Treo is out!!!

Brrr...

2006-08-29T16:26:00.000-05:00

It was still hot and humid in Virginia, but when I woke up and we were in New Jersey and it was raining...it was pretty cold. I would move up here just to be around all the architecture, but I don't if I could handle the winters, and I know for sure that my wife couldn't.

For My House

2006-08-26T20:11:00.000-05:00

I think I would like something like this for my house. Kind of in the back away from everything else. The only thing I would change about it would be enlarging the steps so they can actually be sat on and having it built out of sealed concrete.

Another Blowout

2006-08-26T19:54:00.000-05:00

Life sucks...I'm tired of blown out tires
and breakdowns. It's hard enough to make money without all of these equipment failures.

Lonely Friend

2006-08-18T19:21:00.000-05:00

There are things that I find funny about my friends; Stephen...always has an idea. Jake...doesn't like to be alone. It doesn't matter how much sleep I've had, he's always willing to wake me up to come join him in whatever adventure or stopoff he's involved in.

Big Motor

2006-08-18T01:08:00.000-05:00

After picking up our truck...Jake finally found a motor bigger than his mouth!

Hell's Cycle

2006-08-17T00:17:00.000-05:00

No we're not talking about that "time of the month."

As a truck driver we face a vicious cycle of insomnia and exhaustion, the
problem is that the two never seem to cancel each other out. You try to
sleep but can't, but you know you need to sleep because you have to drive in
ten hours. So you take some pills to help you sleep. Now you're up and the
pills haven't quite worn off yet, but you have to drive, so you grab
something caffeinated and pray for the best. (and a place to pee.)

Sent using the Microsoft Entourage 2004 for Mac Test Drive.

Why Am I Doing This

2006-08-16T23:04:00.000-05:00

There are many nights I lie awake and many mornings I sit wondering, "Why am
I doing this?" (Not blogging, driving a truck.) If you think about it I'm
selling my time with my family for a paycheck. Most people work 8-12 hours a
day and go home...I work 20-25 days and then go home, and yet you get paid
more than me. Why? You're the asshole who cuts me off in traffic nearly
causing a wreck, because you think you're that important. When in reality
you just endangered your life as well as mine and if I wasn't as skilled at
what I do, you might not have survived to ever see your family again.

I fear that one day my children will look me in the eye and say, "You were
never there for me then, why should I care if you here for me now."

New Friend

2006-08-16T21:29:00.000-05:00

It's always nice to add a new friend to my truck. Can't wait until I can have a real one with me.

SouthPark Scott

2006-08-15T11:47:00.000-05:00

As much as I despise the show, I am actually a pretty funny looking SouthPark character. My wife found the Design Your Own SP Character through Stumble.

Happy Birthday

2006-08-13T21:18:00.000-05:00

I Love You Sweetheart. Happy Birthday!

2006-08-02T16:38:00.000-05:00

Is it really Mexican?
While being stranded in SLC, Jake and I visited this Mexican restaurant that didn't serve spanish rice, was playing the Beatles over the intercom, and surfing on the TV's. The food was good, but I left feeling very confused.

2006-05-31T17:26:00.000-05:00

I know that I want to do something great with my life; whether it is to
build an award-winning website, start my own business, succeed in
Primerica, or something else. Unlike most, I am not satisfied to just sit
idly by at my job and be satisfied with status quo. In order for me to
prosper, things must change...challenges must come and be conquered or at
least well attempted. It's amazing how so much ambition wells up inside me,
yet at the same time I feel stuck in my present predicament with no means
of escape. I share my dreams and goals with others and no one wants to help,
maybe they need to be left behind in search of new, true support. You could
argue I have so much at stake, but I could also argue that I have too much
to lose.
___
Sent with SnapperMail
www.snappermail.com

St Peter's Basilica

2006-05-18T20:01:00.000-05:00

Piligrims came to America to escape religious oppression brought on by the king and the catholic church...anyone ever notice how much the US capitol looks like St Peter's Basilica?

Las Vegas...5 hours and $310 later

2006-04-01T19:36:00.000-06:00

Well, for Jake and my first trip into Las Vegas, we went to Excalibur...and lost our asses. I learned that playing video poker or blackjack is just the same as playing it on the pocket pc or computer at home; there's no more thrill involved than if you weren't wasting your money. At the end we played a little roulette and table blackjack and I think we had more fun doing that than we did the rest of the time.

They what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, and when it comes to the women, they ain't lyin'. I have never seen women look like that where I'm from...hell I forgot women could look like that. If you have heard Trace Adkins, "Honkytonk Badonkadonk" then you know what I mean. Had my wife been there I would have been slapped out of my chair...but not before she stepped on my tongue so I would spring back for a second or third smack!

Jake at the Creek

2006-03-29T14:00:00.001-06:00

When I stopped at a gas station in Minnesota to use the restroom, I came back to the truck and Jake was gone. I knew he wasn't in the store because I would have passed him. After a minute I see him coming up the embankment.

"What are you doing? I know you're not taking a leak out there..."

"Man, there a little creek I saw down there...it's so peaceful."

"Okay, I'll go check it out."

Since there was still snow on the ground we slid a little ways down the embankment, but we didn't fall. Sure enough, there was a little brook and it was quite peaceful. It was quiet enough down there you could hear the water gently rushing by. It made me think of the kind of creek I want running through my property when I buy land to build on.

Salutes of Respect

2006-03-29T14:00:00.000-06:00

Back in ROTC, as in the military, you are to salute officers when in uniform. After your first year, you no longer have to think about this, it just becomes automatic.

During my senior year, Jason rose to the position of deputy Corp Commander and the rank of lt Colonel. I, in turn rose to the position of Senior Enlisted Advisor at the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. When we exchanged salutes it truly was out of respect. Respect for the hard work we had put in; respect for each other, and lastly respect for the rank.

It troubles me that someone I used to share such a respect and honor with, I now, feel none. He used to say he had written me off for the mistakes I had made, but I got back to knowing him and now that I know the person he has become, it is me who has written him off. I don't talk to anyone I went to school with the exception of a few...a very select few.

What have you become?

2006-03-27T03:25:00.000-06:00

When you are born...
You are Male or Female

When dare to take on the world without a fear in your heart...
You are a boy...

When you take your first job...
You are an adult...

When you find that special someone you want to spend the rest of your life with...
You are a husband...

When your child recognizes your voice when they are less than five minutes old...
You are a father...

When your child reaches out to you when they can't talk, because they know you will protect them and they feel safe with you...
You are a daddy...

When your child is grown and seeks a mate of their own...
You are a source of wisdom and advice...

When your child has a child of their own and has no fear because of the example you set..
You are a grand-daddy...

When the Lord calls you home and says, "Well done good and faithful servant..."
You are everything He hoped you would be...

Texas Palm

2006-01-26T16:58:00.000-06:00

I have a new site that I have started called Texas Palm.

Check it out!

BBW (12/22 2200)

2005-12-23T20:48:00.003-06:00

I'm bound to get a lot of hell for this one, but it's time to come out. I Used to have a few co-workers, used to because I don't work there anymore, who used to frequent BBW clubs and sites. (For those of you who don't know, BBW stands for big beautiful women.) I look at this and think, ah, the ultra-support group for fat women and guys who are too desparate to go after a decent looking women.

I love to look at cause and effect...so let's look at this one. BBW support goes away. Fat women have no choice but to become thin or die trying, or live a life of lonliness and belittlement. Next men have to shape up, because no good looking women wants slob for a man. Bingo, we just solved America's weight problem. Now to just get people to change their minds (yeah, right) and get rid of the huggy-feely analysts that tell them it's okay. Refer to terrible-two's post for my rant on analysts.

Are you ever going to have a good Christmas? (12/04 1200)

2005-12-23T20:48:00.002-06:00

While not believers in their accuracy, my wife and I like to play with biorhythym programs on our PDA's. The reason we were doing this the last time is because holidays never seem to go well for me, so we checked our little program to see just when Scott is going to have a goog holiday season; the answer is 2014. Hmmm...sucks to be me.

Fickle... (12/22 2000)

2005-12-23T20:48:00.001-06:00

I am in a fairly fickle mood now...I don't know why, I just am. Maybe a better way to describe it is, "I don't give a fuck..." Maybe I'm just worn down and need some good rest. I haven't been sleeping well lately.

Thoughts and Meanderings... (12/21 1900)

2005-12-23T20:48:00.000-06:00

My mom and I were talking the other day about children and the fabled "terrible two's". My quick response to that theory was that terrible two's was psychology's first excuse for bad parenting. Then I thought about what I had said...the more and more I thought about it, the more I realized I was right. If psychologists and analysts would stop making up excuses to make parents feel better about their mistakes, maybe they would start taking some responsibility for their children and their actions that are influencing their families. My favorite phrase when it comes to this is "dysfunctional family." mdeians always ham this idea up and i think they're right: who really had a "functional family" by the text book definition? This goes along the same lines as what exactly is normal and normal for who?

What a night...

2005-11-24T21:33:00.000-06:00

As if it weren't bad enough that I had to work on Thanksgiving...I think I picked the wrong truckstop to stop at tonight. I've already had two people knocking on my cab: one wanting to sell me porn DVD's and another that said "he had some really good weed." I think it's just time to shut out the lights and curl up for the night. I think the lights are attracting the "moths."

Duct-Tape

2005-11-01T16:51:00.000-06:00

Today I am feeling like duct-tape around my team-mate and my room-mate.

From my team-mate, he's considering going home and he has good reason. The
strain of missing your family and them begging you to come home; especially
your children. I had to beg him in a way to just go two weeks with me in
the truck...the money will start coming in, which will relax things at
home, make the wife happier, and smooth things out.

From my room-mate, he forgot his paperwork yesterday, so they sent him back
to the hotel and rescheduled him for today. He failed his SQT in the
morning, and then failed it again in the afternoon, so they are sending him
back out on the road with a Training Engineer for another week. He wants to
quit too...but I am doing my best to convince him otherwise.

Let's talk about me for a change...I had a trip-planning session this
morning that totally kicked my ass...took me three and a half out of four
and a half hours. They love inserting tricks into their curriculum...and I
fell for a few but I think I was able to recover. I guess I'll find out in
the morning. Speaking of falling...while I was out negotiating the CDL
Driving Course, I swung the truck out to far on a turn and dropped the tire
in a drainage ditch...dropped it far enough to make the lugnuts hit the top
of the curb...think about how far of a drop that is. The drop was so hard,
not only did the truck bottom-out, but it shook so violently that it was
like being in a submarine that got struck by a torpedo.

All in all, I feel pretty stressed out right and I really miss my home, my
wife, my son, my mom, and my place. After mising out on Halloween last
night, I realized that this job is going to cause me to miss most of the
important moments in my son's life. One of the reasons I took this job was
to get away from home for a while, but I didn't think it would affect me
this deeply, this quickly...

I have to pass everything flawlessly tomorrow, or else I am prolong the
time before I get to go home...

Truckers as Travel Specialist

2005-10-30T11:59:00.000-06:00

I was at a local Exxon getting lunch and I was approached by a total
stranger askingme about traveling from Dallas to Houston; which route to
take and how long it would take. I guess I was deemed knowledgeable because
I was wearing my Schneider hat and thus assumed to be a seasoned truck
driver and expert road warrior. Luckily for the man that approached me I am
from Texas and familiar with the interstates in this state.

Bad Dreams

2005-10-30T00:39:00.000-05:00

I guess dreams can be a bad thing...when it comes to dreams of mine it is
more in the way of possessions; the latest PDA, new accessories for my
computer, etc My wife on the other hand, dreams of intangibles, like a trip
or a cruise. I used to work as a travel agent and the one thing that
annoyed me more than a customer that didn't know where they wanted to go,
was listening to someone revel in their own tales of travel. "Oh, yeah we
took a week trip to the Bahamas and two cruises last year alone..." In my
head, I'm thinking: I don't give a fuck! Do you want me to book your trip
or not!

I hate pictures, you know why men hate picturs of trips...because it
reminds them of how much money they spent on something they no longer have
or have any use for. At least if he had spent it on a new home stereo he
would have at least gotten six months use out of it before selling it
(money coming in) or trading it up towards somethng new (again using
sustained value).

I'm not always the easiest person to get along with, so a lot of times I
look at pictures and remember the fight that ensued, feelings that got
hurt, or other crappy situation.

Here's my idea on pictures, take mental ones...when those fade away and
can't be recalled anymore, make new ones...

Bush Administration

2005-10-29T21:30:00.001-05:00

So what do I think of the Bush Administration indictments? It isn't any
worse than Clinton's scandals or any of the past president's. In fact I
feel that this 'error' is really insignificant compared to the other
scandals plaguing the past administrations.

Deep down, from what I've seen, this is nothing more than a smoke screen
from the Democrats. The Democrats cannot win at the polls, so they are
doing their best to tear apart the Republicans in office. This is merely
retaliation...if Valerie Flame had never concocted a plan to use her CIA
postion to aid her husband, Dick Chenney would never have had to
investigate a newspaper article involving Joe Wilson, Valerie's husband. So
we've come full circle, if there is anyone to blame in this whole ordeal,
let's blame Valerie Flame Wilson...in the end, I feel she got what she
deserved, but by a technicality, those involved in the investigation made a
slight slip, that normally IA could care less about, but in this instance,
was gobbled up by desperate Democrats in a desperate attempt to appear
productive on Capitol Hill.

Scooter Libby, should not have been indicted nor anyone else. If anyone, or
entity, should be investigated, it should be the CIA and their processes.

Tom Delay Indictment

2005-10-29T21:30:00.000-05:00

So Tom Delay has been indicted...big deal, again he isn't doing anything
that the majority of the Democrats are doing if you take a magnifying glass
to their finances...they may just be better of hiding it.

Gerry-mandering...
Gerry-mandring has been going on for ages and is nothing new. Although
there is rumor of new bills to be passed to block further gerrymandering.
Well, of course they want to block gerrymandering, the Democrats have
everything where they think they want it.

However, there is a problem, and this problem is more prevalent in the
north-eastern states. Just as there a fear of brain-drain of scientists
from Russia after the cold-war, there is population drain frm the
north-eastern states and these voters are heading toward GOP states. Most
people think, "Oh, no, this must spell trouble for Republican States."
Actually the numbers aren't that great, but they are significant.
Significant because it is going to lessen their home states population,
popular votes, and eventully seats in the House and electoral votes.

But Scott, what does this mean to Republican States? So far there is enough
established republicans that this drain isn't going to affect them. Now
let's look at the equation again: less Democrat power, same Republican
power...maybe it might be a good idea to let the gerry-mandering continue
if the Dems know what's good for them. Obviously they don't because you saw
who they tried to put in the White House last time, and we know who's
coming this time...if nothing else, this should be interesting to watch.

Healthcare Rights

2005-10-29T14:00:00.000-05:00

While walking to Walmart today, an unidentified man handed me a flyer, I
took it and kept on walking and then I began to read it. It was a
"supposedly" an internal memo from Walmart regarding healthcare costs and
life insurance payouts.

I grow tired of past precedents causing people to think that it is now a
right. Healthcare, dental, and other insurances is a corporate priviledge,
not a right!

It used to be that the economy was booming and companies could afford to
offer all these wonderful benefits. Nowadays, this is not the case. Living
here in Texas, a broke white man cannot even find manual labor work because
the border-hoppers from Mexico are swarming and willing to work for pennies
on the dollar, and then send those pennies back to Mexico; futher weakening
the US Dollar.

I applaud the the Director of Homeland Security and his pledge to deport
all illegal immigrants back to their origninal country of escape.

My father might have been able to keep decent employment if it weren't for
illegal immigrants under-cutting him for wages at every job he ever worked
at. That is why I am prejudiced against Mexicans. I don't agree with their
culture, with their primary religion, and their foreign ethics.

If the Southern US didn't have to deal with all the welfare claims from
these people, that money could go to funding better projects like
education.

Love...

2005-10-13T08:01:00.000-05:00

What does it mean when you "learn" to love someone versus falling in love?

Trucking

2005-09-26T05:13:00.000-05:00

After all my reading and classroom study yesterday, I am beginning to realize just how many dangers there are to trucking; both stopped and moving.

But overall, this should be fun...traveling the US, meeting new people, new cultures, new ideas. Maybe this is just what I needed after all.

_____
Scott McClintock

Long Days Ahead

2005-09-25T14:04:00.000-05:00

Starting tomorrow our bus leaves for training at 0530...and class lasts
until 1700...and these are supposed to be medium range days!!!

Well, I need to do as much studying as I can. We have the remainder of our
tests on Tuesday; should be a total of about 180 questions.
___
Scott McClintock

Hurricane Rita

2005-09-25T07:11:00.000-05:00

Well Hurricane Rita is no more and everyone is grateful that it wasn't as
bad as it could have been; thankful Corpus Christi wasn't demolished;
thankful Galveston isn't under water...but what about those people that
this was the worst thing that could happen? What about the residents of
Louisiana who were just starting to rebuild and now this? So before you say
thank God it wasn't me, try saying "God, help them."
___
Scott McClintock

Bus Rides and More

2005-09-24T18:37:00.000-05:00

One thing that I will definently be glad to be done with after this
training is over is bus trips. The Greyhound trip sucked because the bus
and terminals were so full due to the hurricanes. The bus we took from La
Quinta was a ricety old bus...

Yesterday it was hotter than in San Antonio, which as far as I knew was
imopossible...Today, the clouds from Rita had finaly reached Dallas cooling
things off quite nice and bringing along with a ther nice breeze.

I found some gifts for my family which I'll be sending out shortly...they
should be loved by all.
___
Scott McClintock

My Son

2005-09-24T13:36:00.000-05:00

Below is an email my wife sent me about our son. He's only five months old
and misses his Daddy very much, even though I've only been gone a day and a
half.

"I just wanted to let you know he would not go to sleep until I got your
grey shirt that was hanging in the bedroom. He misses you so much. I also
had to leave the shirt in his crib."

First Day of Class

2005-09-24T13:22:00.000-05:00

Well not really first, these first two days are really to just to prepare
us for the remainder of the tests we take on Tuesday. Class has been
boring...stuff I already learned from my last CDL permit.

Lunch was decent. I give it a step above hositpal food.

Seems as though the class pretty much keeps to itself...racially speaking.
The white boys are kind of funny. Jeff, from Terrell has a thick accent
and very manners-orientated. Jake, my roommate, also from San Antonio,
reminds me of Pierce from the Zits comic strip. And Jeff #2, from Austin
very eccentric and hyper. You know how every class has that one person who
loves to talk ans ask questions? That is Jeff #2.

Keep an eye on the photo blog I'll have updates posted later today.
___
Scott McClintock

Hello

2005-09-23T21:34:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to let you know that I am fine here...a little homesick and
missing everyone, but other than that, okay.

My roommate's nice...nicely covered with tattoos and piercings... He was in
the Navy.

I have a Denny's nearby and an Exxon just past that.

Training doesn't begin until Monday, but we have some course that Texas
residents are required to take Saturday and Sunday. I'll let you know they
go.

In the meantime, keep an eye on my personal blog for updates.
Http://pfscott.blogspot.com
___
Scott McClintock

So Far...So Bad

2005-09-23T13:57:00.000-05:00

My trip to Dallas was pretty much uneventful...except for my money clip
with $41 falling out of my pocket on the bus and I didn't realize it until
after I had disboarded and the bus had left the station.

I then had a two hour layover in the Dallas station...which after about 15
minutes of standing room only and renovations to boot, I said screw it and
called for a cab.

The cab driver drove like a maniac and extremely fast. If you were ever in
a rush to get to hell quickly, this would be the guy to take you there.

Finally I arrive at the hotel, after the cabbie passes it up...thank God I
had a clue where I was going...and since you're reading you can surmise I
arrived alive.

- Scott

Wish List

2005-09-22T21:55:00.000-05:00

For those who are interested, I have updated my Froogle wishlist...it's link is on the left. (Hint, Hint, HINT!)

One more thing...

2005-09-21T23:07:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to toss a picture of my son up here for everyone to see, he's almost 5 months old:

Been a while

2005-09-21T23:05:00.000-05:00

I know that it has been a while since I have updated this blog.I have
been busy with another blog project called the San Antonio Palm User's
Group (SATXPUG) [http://satxpug.blogspot.com]

Eventually I got that underway and my employer bounced three of my
last payroll checks and as far as I can tell has no intention of
paying for those hot checks, unpaid wages, and overdraft fees.

Now, I am on my way to Dallas this friday to start training with a
national trucking company so I will be doing my updates from the road,
or at least from Dallas for the next three weeks.
--
S.E. McClintock
San Antonio Palm User's Group (SATXPUG)
http://satxpug.blogspot.com

Turning back the clocks

2005-06-26T20:36:00.000-05:00

From May to October 2001, Bob Pedersen fulfilled a lifelong dream: he
traveled around the world, without setting foot on an airplane. Before
he got back to his Eugene, Oregon home though, he had a few musings
about the joy of queuing:
I'm almost home. I'm in Philadelphia now, but will begin the long
train ride to Oregon on Saturday afternoon. It has been a great trip.

As my around-the-world adventure nears its final days, I am somewhat
melancholy that it is ending. I have had some great experiences and
met many wonderful people.

But, one thing that I will not miss is standing in lines. There are
lines to board trains and ferries. Then, there are pushing and shoving
lines to get off the very same. There are lines to purchase onward
travel tickets, lines for information, lines to check baggage, lines
for customs and immigration, and lines for passport control.

While lines in most Western European countries have a semblance of
order and civility, lines in China, Russia, and Greece maintain an air
of every man for himself. Often pushing and shoving is the rule,
rather than the exception. In England, the opposite is true. The
courtesy and politeness shown by the English almost outweighs the
imposition of having to stand in line.

Lines, lines, and more lines. At times I wanted to scream, "While I'm young!"

So, imagine for a moment what it would be like if a person became one
day younger for every hour spent standing in line. I know that this
sounds preposterous and incomprehensible, but humor me for a moment.
Imagine that through some miraculous discovery, man has found a way to
physiologically turn back the clock. All you have to do is stand in
line. Stand in a line 356 hours in one years time and you will
essentially remain the same age. Rack up 730 hours, and you are one
year younger.

A small device, would be permanently attached to your hip, (much like
one of those pedometers that you got as a kid by saving cereal box
tops – akin to standing in line because it took so long to save them).
This device would record the hours spent in lines, and the number of
days of youth regained.

Oh, how the world would change.

Instead of 40, pimply-faced teenagers behind the counter at McDonalds
– shouting out orders and running about like Keystone Kops – there
would be just one or two lonesome, but overworked employees. Those
cattle-gate-like devices used in such restaurants would stretch
hundreds of yards into a parking lot 10 times their current size.

To hear someone in the line ahead of you request a special order would
not trigger exasperation or a loss of patience. "Ten more minutes in
line here, and I've gained two days today."

Likewise, the bozo who wants his senior discount, might be questioned
by a suspicious counter person. But the crowd behind him would just
smile. Somebody might call out; "Way to go, Mac" or, "Check his I.D.
and his meter."

Cell phones would disappear. Praise the lord, and pass a roll of
quarters. Everyone would want to stand in line at public telephone
booths as well.

Concerts and sporting events would be great places to "pick up a few
days", while doctor's offices would do away with chairs in the waiting
rooms. The doctors would make people stand in line instead, providing
those same old 1978 issues of Good Housekeeping to keep your mind
vacant, but somewhat occupied.

A factory owner might be able to postpone buying an employee a gold
watch for retirement by taking out all but one of the plant's drinking
fountains, and making paychecks available only after waiting in a long
line.

Sensible shoes would become the byword, and all sorts of service
business would evolve to cater to those people standing in lines.
There would be vendors selling shoe shines, refreshments, newspapers,
and toys for the kids. "Sorry mister. All I got left are these
novelettes. Ran out of War and Peace a couple of hours ago."

People would relax more. They would become more patient – take life as
it comes, or in this case, ebbs and flows.

But the concept has its faults. "Yes, that's our son out there,
playing on his new swing set. He got his Ph.D. from the university
last year, but he is so obsessed with standing in lines that he's
regressed to the age of 12. His father and I just think that's a bit
young to work for IBM, so we had him move back home for a few years."

And, a husband might detest the thought of standing in a line, while
his wife might take the opposite view. As the gap in age would widen,
the marriage would fall apart. "I'm sorry honey. I just feel trapped
in this marriage. Besides, I know that you're not happy either. I see
the way you roll your eyes when my girlfriends and I talk about next
year's rally squad tryouts."

If standing in lines actually made a person younger, I would be
returning from my journey a very young man. However, it would have
taken me twice as long to complete the trip. Therefore, I would have
an intensification of the deep feelings of homesickness that I have
for friends and loved ones. The trip would have cost a great deal
more. I would have needed an extra bag or two for souvenirs and
trinkets, and just how many refrigerator magnets does a man need?

So, in retrospect, the whole thing is probably a bad idea. Ah hell, it
was just something I thought of while standing in line.

--
S.E. McClintock
"Victory does not come for the weak at heart, but for those who strive
and perservere."

Tired

2005-06-26T19:07:00.000-05:00

I'm so tired...I'm exhausted. I must have had one of those nights
where I dreamed I ate a giant marshamllow and woke up and my pillow
was missing. ...that'll teach me to spend two hours at Taco Cabana
after work...

--
S.E. McClintock
"Victory does not come for the weak at heart, but for those who strive
and perservere."

Escape...

2005-06-10T13:37:00.000-05:00

It's pretty bad that you start to enjoy a job you hate, just because it gets you out of the house. Things have been 'different' ever since Leo came along. I alawys said that I wanted to have kids by the time I was 25 and I got that, but I still don't think I am ready for what that entails. Looking at what has happened to my life I fear the future; I don't know if it will get better or worse...

--
S.E. McClintock
"Victory does not come for the weak at heart, but for those who strive and perservere."

People Are So Stupid!

2005-06-04T11:29:00.000-05:00

People Are So Stupid!

Chick and Dick

2005-06-04T11:26:00.000-05:00

Chick and Dick

Before you start thinking it...this is not a sex blog. (I'm too late aren't I? You already thought it, didn't you? Go ahead and just admit so we can move along...I'm waiting. Fine! Be Stubborn)

Now what the hell was I talking about? Oh, yeah, check out this blog!

Anonymous Midwest Girl

2005-06-04T11:03:00.000-05:00

Anonymous Midwest Girl

Another Good One

Next Blog Button Strikes Again

2005-06-04T10:59:00.000-05:00

Adventures of a Domestic Engineer...

If I keep finding blogs like these, I won't have to think up my own cycnical crap...I can just copy theirs!

Speeding

2005-06-04T10:40:00.000-05:00

Pay special attention to the rule about motorcycles...

After a number of miles on the road during a high traffic time of year, I’ve come to the conclusion that some people need to go back to driving school. There aren’t very many places a person needs to get to that justify risking your life and those of others to get there quickly. Overall, my experience would be happier if ALL the other drivers would know how to drive properly.

**Don’t try to drive up my ass. I know it’s fine (see above), but I don’t want your Buick parked in it!
**On a 6-lane highway, slow traffic goes on the right, fast traffic goes in the middle, and passing traffic goes on the left. Don’t pass people on the right.
**Once you’ve passed someone, get back in the middle or right hand lane. It might feel like your road because you pay a lot of taxes, but guess what? I really think it’s MY ROAD, and I’m being generous enough to share it.
**Wear your seatbelt, ya Dipshit. Anyone who doesn’t … hmmm, I’m not even gonna bother with the stats. You’re just a Dipshit!
**Be careful around motorcycles. Those little guys don’t have a hell of a lot to protect them if your big ‘ol SUV slams into them. So far the trial airbag systems just shoot the drivers off the back and don’t really help a lot.
**Don’t throw cigarette butts out your window after you’ve just passed a motorcycle.
Respect truck drivers ! ! ! These people are doing their job. When you do dumb shit, you not only risk their lives; you fuck with their livelihood. Stay back far enough so you can see their mirrors … then they can see you. Don’t pull in front of them and slow down. It takes them a lot longer to slow down than a regular ‘ol car. In general, if it looks like they need some space, get outta their way.
**When someone is merging, move over … ya know, like when you’re merging and you need space. Merging can be fun, but only with willing partners.
**Inclined to get a bit of Road Rage? Here’s an idea: entice the other party to pull into a Highway Patrol Station. Once there, get out of your car and get into a screaming match until you get an officer’s attention. Then taunt the other person until they lose control and hit you. Then get back in your car with the satisfaction that they will be spending some time dealing with an assault charge.
**THINK about the fact that you’re in control of a really heavy object that’s moving at a very high speed … I’ll wait while you ponder that thought. Be careful.

Photo Blog

2005-05-26T16:39:00.000-05:00

I am trying my hand again at photoblogging...(it takes less effort than writing)

http://www.splashblog.com/pfscott

Leave If You Can

2005-05-21T17:00:00.000-05:00

Leave If You Can

The title says it all...I had read almost of all their headlines before I could manage to peal myself away...I was also hungry...

I must work on me...

2005-05-17T00:18:00.000-05:00

Lately, I have discovered a lot of depressive and negative thought patterns swirling around my head. In the course of reading "Beyond Positive Thinking," by Dr Robert Anthony, I have realised that there is a way out of the hole that I feel I have dug. The change must begin within me. I know, you thinking this is great...this is what all psychologists say. You're right, but do the rest of the head shrinkers out there give you the tools to fight back when you're back-sliding? I'm only on chapter 3, but the little that I have read so far has helped me tremendously. I have turned a lot of things around in my head, like making myself believe that I am a good spouse, that my son is not a burden to me, and that I can handle my job effectively. I am learning the power of self talk; both the positive effects and the negative, and I am trying my best to limit the negative, while empowering the positive.

Leo's first Dr. Apt.

2005-05-16T19:14:00.000-05:00

We went to the Dr. Today and he is doing great. He has gained one oz. since he was born. It's not much, but he is eating well. We also went and he had to get his 2 week blood test done today. He did not like that at all. Overall I'd say he was very good for his appointments today. Scott and I had lunch at this vintage diner he and his dad used to go to all the time. It's called Olmo's Drug Store. They are a small store and 1/2 a diner. The burgers, fries and malt were great. I highly recommend stopping by if you are in town.

Olmos Drug Store
(210) 822-3361
3902 McCullough Ave
San Antonio, TX 78212

Sleepless nights

2005-05-11T10:20:00.000-05:00

If you see Scott at work today and he looks like he's on drugs, he's not. He is just exhausted and tired from lack of sleep. Leo did not want to settle down last night. Then right when his daddy had to leave he ate and passed right out. I would love to go back to sleep too, but I also have work to do. I hope we can get some kind of sleep tonight.

My First Mother's Day

2005-05-09T13:00:00.000-05:00

My first Mother's Day was awesome. Scott started off my special day. I got three cards and the most beautiful heart shaped glass figure with a mom tribute. The glass heart was so pretty I forgot all about the cards. Grandma also gave me a card to celebrate. While Scott was at work my sister Marjorie and her family came by to see me. My niece Jessica was really excited to see and hold the baby. I got pictures of everyone holding Leo. She brought me some flowers, a card, and a heart shaped magnet with a sister tribute. The baby got a little white bear sticking out of a bag that says "It's a Boy". We had a great visit. Later my other sister Jo came by with her family. The kids are just crazy about Leo. Everyone goes on and on about how cute he is. Scott and I are so lucky to have such a gorgeous baby. Jo brought me a card too. She gave me my mother's day present early when I was in the hospital. It was a silver cross necklace. Leo got a cross too for his birthday present. I got more pictures of everyone with Leo. When Scott came home he started on dinner. He bar-b-qued for us and waited on me for the night while I relaxed and watched the Spurs game. Once again, my day was AWESOME! I loved the visit with my family and everyone truly went out of their way to make it special. Thank you ALL!!!

Mondays...

2005-05-09T04:43:00.000-05:00

Mondays bring about a whole new kind of hate at Travelocity...especially Mondays after a holiday. Now, all the idiots that are too stupid to use a computer call in and want to know why they can't get the same deal that was online three days ago...like printing it out is going to set it in stone! I would say that more than half of these people need to stay at home in a room with no sharp objects. Maybe we should give them the sharp objects...then they would leave me the hell alone. The website is simple; if you can't figure it out, you shouldn't be traveling; at least not without a chaperone.

Happy Mother's Day

2005-05-08T09:36:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to send a message out to the two special ladies in my life; my wife and my mom. Thank you both for everything that you do in your son's lives.

Crack of the Neck

2005-05-08T09:25:00.000-05:00

I, like most people, have the bad habit of 'cracking' my neck when I'm feeling stressed out. Right now I am putting in two 12 hour shifts, back-to-back on less then 2 hours sleep...I think this qualifies as stressed; that is if I can stay awake long enough. Anyway, I was standing at the urinal doing my thing and I popped my neck, rather loudly...it kind of made me a little light-headed. I thought to myself this probably isn't a good place to be doing this and I really don't want someone coming in here finding me dead in a puddle of my own pee with my dick in my hand...newspapers would have a field day with that one!

Life at Home pt2

2005-05-07T22:37:00.000-05:00

It's true...Life at home has been very difficult; adding a little one to the mix. Dallas isn't exactly thrilled with the fact that I can selectively sleep through his crying in the middle of the night. (I wish that had worked last night...) And it's fun to see her all excited about her clothes starting to fit again. I guess the nesting instinct kicked in a little late, cause she's been one busy bee lately. I try to get her sit down and relax and she just gives me this excited look and keeps on buzzing.

Adjusting life at home

2005-05-07T22:13:00.000-05:00

This is my very first post and I don't want to mess it up. Things at home with Baby Leo and I are going well. It's a struggle for both of us right now. He gets fussy when it's time to eat. It's hard to know what I am supposed to be doing. Scott's advise has helped me a lot. I always go to him when I'm unsure of what I am doing. He doesn't always have the answers, but he tries. I'm recovering well from the C-section. I am feeling better and can do more around the house. I feel pretty good about my clothes fitting better. There are so many little things I can do now that I haven't been able to do in months such as touching my toes. i get bored at home some times. Most of all I miss Scott when he's at work. I Love You Sweetheart. SBC Yahoo! Mail - dallas_mcclintock@sbcglobal.net

Adding an Editor

2005-05-04T06:23:00.000-05:00

Seeing as how my wife is now a professional homemaker (and I a homewrecker...), I have decided to bring her on a contributing editor to this blog. Now she doesn't have to hide her thoughts in the comments section of my posts; she can put them right out there in the open (like she usually does). She is as much a part of my life as I am, and now my son too. I know she will be posting his thoughts too, until he can start posting on his own.

Leo Ryan McClintock

2005-05-04T05:32:00.000-05:00

Friday night during the baby shower, I received a call from my OB stating that we needed to get her to the hospital ASAP to have her induced, as her toxemia levels had gotten out of control. Once we got to the hospital they started hooking her up to everything...magnesium sulfate to counter the toxemia, pitosin to induce labor, saline, blood pressure cuff, and her "favorite" catheter. As labor failed to progress they had to break her water and attach the internal monitors. After three hours at 5cm, the OBdecided that a C-section was in everyone's best interests...good thing too, because we later learned, the head wouldn't have fit!

Much to my amazement, even after all the medication they pumped into Dallas, the baby still came out fine...no heart or breathing problems. Everyone came home yesterday after a four day hiatus at St Nix Hospital in downtown San Antonio. Mother and baby are fine...

Discipline your robot

2005-04-27T07:05:00.000-05:00

While I have been bored most of this morning...like most others...I have spent most of my time today the Gadgeteer Reviews website. Julie and Judie, along with their associate editors review numerous products and give us the good, the bad, and the ugly.

One review I came across was for the Sony AIBO. For those of you who don't know...this Sony's version of a robotic dog. One particular excert from the review struck me funny so I decided to post it here:

"When the AIBO does something that you like, you can either pet it on its head (there is a sensor there) or you can say Good Boy or Good Girl. Conversely, if the dog does something that you don't want it to do, you can thwap him on the head or say Bad Boy/Girl. Eventually AIBO will learn to do the good actions more than the bad ones. "

You can view the full review here

Stuff to Sling

2005-04-27T05:33:00.000-05:00

Here are two excellent item that would fit in my sling bag to help ensure that my Treo never went hungry:

http://www.boxwave.com/products/versacharger/index.htm

http://www.boxwave.com/products/batteryadapter/index.htm

After all, what good is a device that is dead? It can't take pictures or movies, play music or games, or help keep me organized. And maybe, just maybe I'll share my power source with my wife if her device gets to low...

Sling This

2005-04-27T05:13:00.000-05:00

http://www.tombihn.com/page/001/PROD/300/TB0151

Ever since my wife misplaced (lost) my cheap Walmart sling bag, I have been on a search to replace it. I found out that it is made by Targus and ALL, YES ALL, of the resellers and online shops that are supposed to sell it, DON'T! So I am forced to search in vain for a new one. I like everything about this one except the price; pretty steep compared to a $20 bag from Walmart. (Honey, just give it up and admit you flushed the bag right after the keys!)

NSA Windows Key

2005-04-26T12:42:00.000-05:00

http://www.heise.de/tp/r4/artikel/5/5263/1.html
This was discovered recently, even though it is an old article, it's information and useability may still be good:

How NSA access was built into Windows
Duncan Campbell 04.09.1999
Careless mistake reveals subversion of Windows by NSA.

A CARELESS mistake by Microsoft programmers has revealed that special access codes prepared by the US National Security Agency have been secretly built into Windows. The NSA access system is built into every version of the Windows operating system now in use, except early releases of Windows 95 (and its predecessors). The discovery comes close on the heels of the revelations earlier this year that another US software giant, Lotus, had built an NSA "help information" trapdoor into its Notes system, and that security functions on other software systems had been deliberately crippled.
The first discovery of the new NSA access system was made two years ago by British researcher Dr Nicko van Someren. But it was only a few weeks ago when a second researcher rediscovered the access system. With it, he found the evidence linking it to NSA.
Computer security specialists have been aware for two years that unusual features are contained inside a standard Windows software "driver" used for security and encryption functions. The driver, called ADVAPI.DLL, enables and controls a range of security functions. If you use Windows, you will find it in the C:\Windows\system directory of your computer.
ADVAPI.DLL works closely with Microsoft Internet Explorer, but will only run crypographic functions that the US governments allows Microsoft to export. That information is bad enough news, from a European point of view. Now, it turns out that ADVAPI will run special programmes inserted and controlled by NSA. As yet, no-one knows what these programmes are, or what they do.
Dr Nicko van Someren reported at last year's Crypto 98 conference that he had disassembled the ADVADPI driver. He found it contained two different keys. One was used by Microsoft to control the cryptographic functions enabled in Windows, in compliance with US export regulations. But the reason for building in a second key, or who owned it, remained a mystery.
A second key
Two weeks ago, a US security company came up with conclusive evidence that the second key belongs to NSA. Like Dr van Someren, Andrew Fernandez, chief scientist with Cryptonym of Morrisville, North Carolina, had been probing the presence and significance of the two keys. Then he checked the latest Service Pack release for Windows NT4, Service Pack 5. He found that Microsoft's developers had failed to remove or "strip" the debugging symbols used to test this software before they released it. Inside the code were the labels for the two keys. One was called "KEY". The other was called "NSAKEY".
Fernandes reported his re-discovery of the two CAPI keys, and their secret meaning, to "Advances in Cryptology, Crypto'99" conference held in Santa Barbara. According to those present at the conference, Windows developers attending the conference did not deny that the "NSA" key was built into their software. But they refused to talk about what the key did, or why it had been put there without users' knowledge.
A third key?!
But according to two witnesses attending the conference, even Microsoft's top crypto programmers were astonished to learn that the version of ADVAPI.DLL shipping with Windows 2000 contains not two, but three keys. Brian LaMachia, head of CAPI development at Microsoft was "stunned" to learn of these discoveries, by outsiders. The latest discovery by Dr van Someren is based on advanced search methods which test and report on the "entropy" of programming code.
Within the Microsoft organisation, access to Windows source code is said to be highly compartmentalized, making it easy for modifications to be inserted without the knowledge of even the respective product managers.
Researchers are divided about whether the NSA key could be intended to let US government users of Windows run classified cryptosystems on their machines or whether it is intended to open up anyone's and everyone's Windows computer to intelligence gathering techniques deployed by NSA's burgeoning corps of "information warriors".
According to Fernandez of Cryptonym, the result of having the secret key inside your Windows operating system "is that it is tremendously easier for the NSA to load unauthorized security services on all copies of Microsoft Windows, and once these security services are loaded, they can effectively compromise your entire operating system". The NSA key is contained inside all versions of Windows from Windows 95 OSR2 onwards.
"For non-American IT managers relying on Windows NT to operate highly secure data centres, this find is worrying", he added. "The US government is currently making it as difficult as possible for "strong" crypto to be used outside of the US. That they have also installed a cryptographic back-door in the world's most abundant operating system should send a strong message to foreign IT managers".
"How is an IT manager to feel when they learn that in every copy of Windows sold, Microsoft has a 'back door' for NSA - making it orders of magnitude easier for the US government to access your computer?" he asked.
Can the loophole be turned round against the snoopers?
Dr van Someren feels that the primary purpose of the NSA key inside Windows may be for legitimate US government use. But he says that there cannot be a legitimate explanation for the third key in Windows 2000 CAPI. "It looks more fishy", he said.
Fernandez believes that NSA's built-in loophole can be turned round against the snoopers. The NSA key inside CAPI can be replaced by your own key, and used to sign cryptographic security modules from overseas or unauthorised third parties, unapproved by Microsoft or the NSA. This is exactly what the US government has been trying to prevent. A demonstration "how to do it" program that replaces the NSA key can be found on Cryptonym's website.
According to one leading US cryptographer, the IT world should be thankful that the subversion of Windows by NSA has come to light before the arrival of CPUs that handles encrypted instruction sets. These would make the type of discoveries made this month impossible. "Had the next-generation CPU's with encrypted instruction sets already been deployed, we would have never found out about NSAKEY."

PDA in the classroom

2005-04-26T10:22:00.000-05:00

No, we are not talking about Public Displays of Affection in the classroom...I'm referring to Personal Digital Assistants...Computers in the classroom, in any form, used to be a need, now they are a necessity.

http://www.pocketpcmag.com/_archives/sep04/HandheldCentricClassroom.aspx

Last week at the DR

2005-04-26T08:22:00.000-05:00

Aside from Dallas' frequent hospital visits (I guess I would prefer them to be now versus earlier in the pregnancy) things seem to be progressing along nicely. The bowling ball has dropped and she definently feels like she's carrying one. Last week she was at 2cm...curious to see where she's at this week. We went to Dr yesterday and her tests for toxemia/preeclampsia came back negative...that's good, but her legs and feet still look like water balloons...

Bad vs Worse

2005-04-26T07:57:00.000-05:00

You know it's going to be a crappy day when you email yourself something and it goes straight to junk mail...You know it's going to be even worse when you pray for relief and get a busy signal.

Go AT&T on someone

2005-04-25T10:56:00.000-05:00

I'm not a mean person, by any means, but every now and then I just get the urge to whallop the hell out of someone. It could be someone I don't even know and has never done or said anything to me...I just get the urge and the there's an underlying feeling that if I do -- I will feel much better...MUCH better...luckily I haven't...time to take my meds...where are my meds...oh, shit!

AskMen

2005-04-25T08:16:00.000-05:00

http://www.askmen.com/

Came across this site...it looks like a toned down version of Maxim with a good dose of real sophistication and advice. This is one site every guy should visit...no not for the girls.

…and that's why God hates kittens.

2005-04-25T08:12:00.000-05:00

…and that's why God hates kittens.

What a cynical Bastard...just like me! Lot of good jokes on here...if you find that kind of stuff funny.

Celtic Cross

2005-04-25T07:18:00.000-05:00

Celtic Cross

And another...I must be really bored today

Random Picture...Random Story

2005-04-25T07:11:00.000-05:00

Random Picture...Random Story

Here's another one...I especially liked "Demise of a Politician"

Home Fires

2005-04-25T07:09:00.000-05:00

Home Fires

Whenever I'm bored at work, which is frequent, I love to play with the "next blog" button...it may take a while but I eventually find a really interesting blog; like this one

Almost...Again

2005-04-24T07:18:00.000-05:00

I think Dallas likes scaring me/us when it comes to Leo. We went to the Doctor on Thursday for her weekly appointment -- The doctor thinks that she may have toxemia -- we head to Nix Hospital for testing, where if she tests positive, they will induce her labor since she is so far along. Well, she tested negative, but she really didn't like the catheter...

Habemus Papam

2005-04-20T10:52:00.000-05:00

Well, shortly after my previous post about papability...white smoke poured from the chimney of St Peter's and bells rang. "Habemus Papam," announced the Carmenlengo, "We have a pope."

Joseph Ratzinger of Germany accepted the job of the Pontiff and chose to be know as Benedict XVI.

A son shall soon be born...

2005-04-19T11:01:00.000-05:00

It's hard to imagine that I will soon be a father. There are days where my wife and I are still in disbelief that she's a carry a new life inside and that it will be our responsiblility to raise and nurture this life until either we or he passes on. It's becoming a very emotional time for everyone. It's a wondeful feeling...

No Habeas Papam

2005-04-19T10:50:00.000-05:00

Well, after the intial voting round of the conclave in Rome there has been no announcement of a successor to the late Pope John Paul II. On Monday, after the first voting, puffs of white smoke were seen coming from the chimney of St Peter's, but evidently it was just the chimney cleaning out old smoke from the last conclave as the smoke quickly turned black; silencing the cheers from the crowds gathered outside.

Cardinal Ratzinger of Germany is now thought to have lost lost early momentum, especially after his mass prior to the conclave warning the princes of the church against modernization and anything else except for extreme traditionalism. (Hmm...I wonder if he's a conservative???)

Sick Wife

2005-04-18T19:23:00.000-05:00

Oddly enough after my previous post, Dallas and I are at St Nix hospital with her being nauseous and erratic contractions; no water broken or further dialation.

I have go to the Doctor's...

2005-04-18T14:46:00.000-05:00

I hate doctors offices...they always smell so steril, yet I feel like I'm at risk for something more contagious just by walking in.

Baby Leo is Coming!!!

2005-04-17T15:42:00.000-05:00

Well, we went to the doctor this week to see how Dallas is progressing along with the pregnancy...She's already dialated 1cm and 70% effaced...Baby Leo may come early after all.

Wages Lagging Behind Prices

2005-04-11T04:58:00.000-05:00

http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-wages11apr11,0,5092199.story?coll=la-home-headlines

For the first time in 14 years, the American workforce has in effect gotten an across-the-board pay cut.

The growth in wages in 2004 and the first two months of this year trailed inflation, compounding the squeeze from higher housing, energy and other costs.

The result is that people like Victor Romero are finding themselves falling behind.

The 49-year-old film-set laborer had to ditch his $1,100-a-month Hollywood apartment because his rent kept rising while his pay of $24.50 an hour stayed flat.

"There's no such thing as raises anymore," Romero said.

This is the first time that salaries have increased more slowly than prices since the 1990-91 recession. Though salary growth has been relatively sluggish since the 2001 downturn, inflation also had stayed relatively subdued until last year, when the consumer price index rose 2.7%. But wages rose only 2.5%.

The effective 0.2-percentage-point erosion in workers' living standards occurred while the economy expanded at a healthy 4%, better than the 3% historical average.

Meanwhile, corporate profits hit record highs as companies got more productivity out of workers while keeping pay increases down.

Some see climbing profits and stagnant wages as not only unfair but also ultimately unsustainable. "Those that are baking the larger pie ought to see their slices expanding," said Jared Bernstein, an economist with the liberal Economic Policy Institute in Washington.

But higher wages could hurt the economy by stoking inflation further. Employers might pass the costs on to consumers in higher prices, and that in turn might prompt the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates more aggressively, possibly slowing the recovery or even triggering a recession.

For now, workers' wallets are being pummeled by something of a perfect storm of economic forces: a weak job market, rising health insurance premiums and other inflationary pressures.

The biggest factor is the slack employment market, which means there is little pressure on businesses to boost pay. "They take advantage of you because there's no work and anyone will work for anything," Romero said.

Although the unemployment rate has dropped to a relatively low 5.2%, that figure doesn't count the hundreds of thousands of jobless people who've given up their searches and dropped out of the labor market at a greater rate than anytime since 1988. At the same time, the cost of health premiums has skyrocketed, eating into the pool of corporate cash set aside for raises. Although pay rose only about 2.4% last year, benefit costs jumped almost 7%.

With benefits factored in, workers' total compensation did outpace inflation in 2004, even if they didn't see it in their paychecks. But employers also are requiring workers to pay a greater share of their premiums.

"Healthcare has eroded the wage base," said Janemarie Mulvey, chief economist with the Employment Policy Foundation, a business-funded think tank in Washington.

"In the long run, we can't continue like this. If healthcare keeps crowding out wages forever, something's got to give."

The squeeze is especially intense on the 47% of the workforce whose employers don't directly provide their health insurance. For lower-income workers, who are more likely to be uninsured, the falling value of their wages is even more serious because they're more likely to live paycheck to paycheck. And rising food and energy prices take a proportionately higher toll on the poor than on the rich.

Historically, periods when wage growth is outpaced by inflation rarely last more than 18 months. That's partly because businesses don't want their employees' living standards to fall, as that injures morale, said Trewman Bewley, a Yale University economist who has studied wage activity during economic downturns.

Many economists figure it's only a matter of time until workers can pry more money out of their employers to catch up to inflation again. If economic growth remains robust, as many forecasters predict, workers may gain greater leverage to negotiate wage hikes.

"Chances are that those workers that have problems getting by because of higher fuel prices will probably tell their employers, 'I can't make it,' " said John Lonski, chief economist at Moody's Investors Service.

That hasn't played out for Brian Chartier. The 29-year-old Glendale resident handles inventory for a Los Angeles manufacturing company. No one there, he said, has gotten a raise in two years.

"They're able to do this and I haven't quit, because where am I going to go?" he said. "There are no jobs."

While his salary remained flat, rising healthcare premiums kept eating up more and more of Chartier's take-home pay, so he dropped out of his employer's insurance program. His rent is also climbing.

As Chartier loaded bags of groceries into his Honda Civic last week, he boasted that they were full of bargains. "I don't get a single thing that's not on sale," Chartier said. "I can't afford to anymore."

Despite the failure of their wages to keep pace with inflation, American consumers have kept shopping. Consumer spending has continued to rise. Analysts say that's partly because some shoppers are thinking less about their paychecks and more about their biggest asset: their homes.

Home prices rose 21.1% in Southern California and 9% nationwide from February 2004 to February 2005, sheltering consumers, and the economy, from much of the pinch of higher prices.

"There's been a wealth effect afoot throughout much of the recession and the recovery," said Bernstein of the Economic Policy Institute, "because no matter what people's incomes were doing, their wealth was improving — their biggest assets, their homes, were accruing."

As inflation sparks higher interest rates, most economists expect the housing market to cool, making shoppers more dependent on their paychecks. And even those who have seen their paper wealth rise phenomenally aren't happy about rising costs and stagnant pay.

Corina Swatz has seen the value of her Silver Lake home triple in about a decade. But neither she nor her husband has gotten a raise in more than a year. Meanwhile, gas prices have forced them to shell out $55 to fill the tank of their Chevy Tahoe.

"I used to spend $600 a month [on groceries]. Now I spend $800," Swatz, a mother of two, said as she made her weekly Costco run last week. The increased value of her home gives her only so much solace. "We're hanging in there."

The danger is that people like Swatz, despite their home equity cushion, may pull the rug out from under the economic expansion by reining in their spending.

That's what Gabriel Torres has done. The 56-year-old cook, who lives in Hollywood, hasn't gotten a raise in years but pays ever-higher prices to fill his Nissan Xterra. He and his wife have come up with a solution: Cut down on driving.

"We don't go out much," Torres said. "We used to. But now we only drive when we really have to."

Scott's Thoughts...

2005-04-06T15:40:00.000-05:00

I had a weird realization today regarding my business with Primerica...it's not that this business is hard, or it requires too much, it's that not everyone thinks the same way I do; not everyone holds the same values, the same goals in life as me. This is kind of hard for someone of my personality type to grasp and accept. What this does tell me is to go out and find more "me"s and I'll have a superb business running!

Lazy Writer

2005-04-05T05:59:00.000-05:00

I guess I can chalk it up to writer's block...nah, I was just being lazy with my posting. I haven't really had anything interesting to write about lately...the wife is still pregnant, very pregnant, I'm still working the same old job, the same car, nothing new...

Pope John Paul II

2005-04-05T05:55:00.000-05:00

Even though I am not Catholic, after much thought I feel the need to post something regarding the passing of this great leader. I have to admit that I did not follow the deeds of the Pope through his reign, but after reading several articles on the web, I must say this was trully a great man. I may not agree with all of the teachings and traditions of Catholicism, but this Pope was about more than that, he was a man of peace.

2005-03-29T06:56:00.000-06:00

I just picked up a new program called HBlogger from www.normsoft.com. It enables me to type and upload posts from my treo 650 where ever I am. I can also do it by email, but I've noticed the email posting is a little buggy, so I am going to give this program a shot!

[Posted with hblogger 2.0 http://www.normsoft.com/hblogger/]

Techdirt.com

2005-03-29T06:36:00.000-06:00

www.techdirt.com

For the most part, when we hear stories about psychologists naming a new problem related to technology, we make the obvious assumption that they're trying to get some attention to drum up business. This leads to publicity over things like web addiction, video game addiction, internet addiction, text messaging addiction and many other such claims. While it's nice to at least see the latest technology-induced problem a psychologist describes is not called an addiction, it still sounds a bit overstated. A psychologist who studies attention deficit disorder (ADD) is now claiming that many people in today's high tech workplace are suffering from a related disorder he calls attention deficit trait (ADT). The concept is that you're not born with ADT, but it's induced by a workplace that forces you to multi-task all the time -- and that it's easily cured by getting out of that environment. He also claims that "multi-tasking" is impossible for humans, which some might disagree with -- but he does make some valid points on getting people to occasionally stop and actually think about things. Taking a longer term viewpoint is often very useful. Still, it's not clear that it's really reached the "epidemic" stage that this guy claims. If anything, it seems that as more companies recognize the importance of a better work/life balance, this becomes less of an issue. That means not doing stupid things like banning solitaire -- which acts as a mental break, or trying desperately to stop all personal activities at work. In fact, the psychologist points out that it's often the tech companies who are better able to diffuse this "ADT" stuff by understanding the importance of "play" at work. As such ideas diffuse more widely into the workplace, it seems like this problem shouldn't be such a big issue.

Chauvinist Feminism...

2005-03-28T07:42:00.000-06:00

http://men.typepad.com/means_hour/women/

I finally came across a blog over at TypePad that talks about something that has been a soapbox issue for me for a long time. Before I graduated high school, I began to notice the over-compensation in American Society with regards to racism and gender equal rights.

Now don't get me wrong, I am all for equality; ethnically and sexually. One of the greatest arguments in high school between the ROTC department and the feminists involved was that women were not, and still not allowed to serve on Special Forces Teams in the military. The pinnacle of the debate was that if the requirement for women to be able to join these teams would they be have to earn that position at the same qualification level as the men, and at age 18 all women would have to register for the draft just like men do. Guess, what their response was, "No Way!" What they wanted was to have it handed to them, something I am not for at all.

It's well known fact nowadays by most white males that their chance of employment is less than someone else of a different gender or sex. The reason behind this is because if the company does hire the white guy, then the other applicant will scream racism or gender-bias. What happens if the white male sues for racism or gender-bias, he gets laughed at in court. Put 12 white male jurists in that court and he'll win. Not because of favoritism or the "good ole boy network," but because they know it's true too.

One thing I do want to point out about the article is the comment about your mission is to find a silent women. This is I disagree with...If God had intended for women to be silent, he would have made her walk on all fours with the rest of the animals, not able to stand on two legs and look us in the eye.

Look around you, is it equality, or reverse racism and reverse gender-bias?

Scott's Post on Palm Addict

2005-03-27T09:23:00.000-06:00

Yahoo!!! No pun intended...I got my submision posted on Palm Addict !!!

"Thanks to Scott McClintock for the heads up "Hi Sammy, I found this site while browsing for Treo applications the other day. I remember when there used to be a Yahoo Messenger back when Sprint rolled out the Samsung I-300, but then Yahoo discontinued their mobile messenger in favor of a WAP based one. I've tried this app and it works great! I can't wait to see the final product."
- Sammy (Manchester, UK)"

http://palmaddict.typepad.com/palmaddicts/2005/03/yahoo_messenger.html

Updates Info

2005-03-27T08:30:00.000-06:00

Just a quick note for those of you who visit here regularly...

The links section will be changing soon with a theme closer related to writing and journalism, however the PalmAddict will remain!

Seeing as how I intend to write more frequently, versus link posting, the archiving format has been changed from weekly to daily. Not to worry, if you are looking for a specific post, use the search bar at the top of the page and it will search my blog and its archives for your topic, if I wrote anything about it. After the blog has its one month anniversary, the archive format will go to weekly, and after three months I will probably revert to monthly archives again.

As before I encourage all of my readers and guests to feel free to post comments to any of my entries. I would appreciate however that those comments remain on topic, or your comment may be the victim of destructive editing (deleted).

Job's Page - Your Link to a Newspaper Career

2005-03-27T07:30:00.000-06:00

Since I seem to be on a journalism and writing kick this morning, here is another link that leads to a page full of good information with regards to getting a job in the journalism field. Particularly check out the section on the 10 do's and don'ts of the job fair. Some of them may be funny, but as Jeff Foxworthy would say, "It wouldn't be printed on there if someone hadn't done it before..."

http://www.freep.com/jobspage/toolkit/

Writing On Your Palm

2005-03-27T07:21:00.000-06:00

This is a site that I visit occassionally. I found it when I was heavy into writing and preparing to go back to school and pursue a degree in journalism. I still may do that in the future, I just have toooooooo many things on my plate right now. (Too bad it's one of those cheap paper plates that keeps folding or leaking...)

Writing On Your Palm

We Need a Picture

2005-03-27T06:54:00.000-06:00

After doing all of the spring cleaning this morning I realized that I need a little color around here, maybe a picture or two. Maybe I can get the wife to pose and show everyone just how pregnant she is...

Spring Cleaning

2005-03-27T06:51:00.000-06:00

I decided to remove alot of the junk that I had cluttering up this page. I think that it is important that I retain the original puropse of this blog, and that was to give me a place to write and ramble and for friends and family to respond to those ramblings. I guess I caught up with too much flash and bang, maybe some things will return, but probably not for a while.

Another wonderful woman...

2005-03-24T16:26:00.000-06:00

You can bet by the title my wife is immediately perked up and wondering who this bitch is...however I referring to her sister.

I just wanted to publicly say thank you to Jo. She was very kind to help us out while we did not have a car. She drove from Marion to our house almost everyday for two weeks, and that's no short trip.

Thanks Jo!!!!!!!!!!