Double Nickels

55 years ago today I drew my first breath, peed in my first diaper and probably did some other, equally rude things. Yep, today is the 55th anniversary of my birth. I honestly don't remember much about it, though.

Here at my place of employment it really is just another day. Very few of my co-workers know my date of birth as it isn't something I've shared very freely. I've enjoyed some nice birthday greetings from friends via Email.

I'm trying to decide how I feel about growing older. I can tell you this for sure - growing older is not recommended for sissies. Bifocals, hearing aids and various aches and pains all conspire to remind me that I am no longer at my physical prime, and it only takes a glance at the mirror for me to realize that I just don't look good naked anymore. That's OK - my dogs still love me.

A Helluva Way to Start the Day

Unfortunately, the first Email I read today left me quite upset. It seems that an acquaintance of mine has left the State. Now there are allegations floating about that she may have abandoned or otherwise neglected some of her dogs. Because I recorded in my blog on the 16th that my friend gave me some fencing, a correspondent has even tried to implicate me, writing "how could anyone go over to her place and see her pitiful dogs in such poor condition and not say anything?????"

Um, when I saw the dogs THREE WEEKS AGO, they were just fine. Honestly, I can't speak to what may or may not have occurred in the meantime. I didn't even know there was a problem until I received an Email from another friend on Saturday, telling me about it. Judging from Emails being bandied about today, it looks like there is a good old-fashioned witch hunt afoot. A lot of second and third hand "information" is being shared willy nilly, but at this point I'm not sure anyone actually knows what has or hasn't happened. I think maybe folks need to take a couple of steps back, fan their jets for a while, and let the whole story come to light before passing judgment on anybody.

Moving Up the Line

Today is the last day of my normal tour of duty. In the morning I'll be traveling up the line to facility very near the Yukon River where I'll spend 1 week filling in for a co-worker. I have to admit that I'd rather be going home and enjoying a full R&R, but come October I'm sure I'll appreciate having an extra week to do more of those "pre-season" tasks that can't be avoided. In any event, I'm looking forward to a change of scenery.

Smoke is Lingering

The smoke from wildfires continues to linger, just as thick as ever. According to the local newspaper July was the driest and hottest on record and forest fires have claimed more than 2 million acres thus far this year. I think the constant pollution is contributing to my generally grumpy temper. I'm tired of being short of breath with burning eyes.

In any event, it looks like it will be another busy day here at my place of employment. At least that will help the time pass.