Good morning folks.
4 inches of fresh snow and the third Monday in a row for our local school to be closed. There will be 6" of this stuff before it all ends by Noon. A good layer of ice underneath too.

OK now, to take away them frowns caused by winter blues, I have something to make you smile. My wife & I bought a hamster for our 8 1/2 yr old son yesterday. What a joy it has been to see the love come from this little boy. He is so tickled.

We had to leave our dog to a new home when we left Texas a couple of years ago. We are not allowed to have a dog here at this house we have been renting. There has been a void for 2 years, and after seeing what joy has come to my son, I wished I would not have waited so long to do this.

It is so great to know that no matter what goes on in the world or here at my job, I can be put at ease so quickly at home with a hug and a smile from my son.

Have a great day folks.
-Dan- ;)

My daughter is soon to be graduating from school. I receive such joy from her desire to still be seen with me. My son is 15 and also still wants to be around me. You are absolutely right in your assessment.

It is so great to know that no matter what goes on in the world or here at my job, I can be put at ease so quickly at home with a hug and a smile from my son.

Don, my hope and wish is that you never lose this thought. It will be just a matter of seconds that your 8 1/2 year old will be 18. May both of you always enjoy hugs and smiles.

Dan,

Think you can teach that hamster to point birds or run rabbits?:vfunny:

I have had my fill of snow for the year. Over 50" this year so far, 24" last weekend, rain this weekend, couple inches predicted for this week, everything is a wet, mucky mess one minute and ice the next. I'm ready for fishing. Spring, where are youuuuuuuu????

no matter what goes on in the world or here at my job, I can be put at ease so quickly at home with a hug and a smile from my son.

You are so right Dan. With my first 3 (2 sons & a daughter - 18 to 23) I was deployed a lot of time and missed so much of their growing up. 1 day their not walking and the next time you see them they run. With my daughter, now 2, it is different. I'm home more and see more of her. You can have the worse day ever dreamed of, and walk in and get that hug and nothing else matters!!!

After shoveling the snow this weekend I came in sat down and groaned a little. My daughter came up and asked if I was okay, before I could answer she put her hand on my forehead (feeling for a fever) and asked me again if I was okay. The stiff shoulders and sore back melted away as I laughed and hugged her. Their innocence and wonder at the simplest of things is such a joy to see.

You guys.....I get all teary eyed at these stories! My kids do the same thing to me. Usually when I think I've had enough of the running around, taxi mom something totally cool will happen. I was never the type to "choke up" at happy/funny/cute things until I had kids. They'll do that to you.

And.... I never had a dog as a kid. 3 years ago, I 'gave in' to the runt of a collie/shepard litter. The 'runt' now weighs 90 lbs, but to the kids he thinks he's a lap dog. Very smart and loyal. Then this fall, to keep him company, we fell in love with a mutt from the pound. The 2 are hysterical together, and the kids adore them. The 2nd one now keeps the older one occupied when we're not home. Congrat's on the new addition D_Wood. You're right about the joy a pet can bring to the kids.

Laura, you are right about pets, but I think you are wrong about the type.

Watching fish can keep kids occupied for hours. True, you can't play fetch, hunt, or cuddle with them but then again:

1) They don't wake you in the middle of the night to go bathroom, nor do you have to change their litter box
2) They don't wake up the neighbors with their constant barking
3) They never damage your favorite chair, or drapes with their claws
4) They never go bathroom in your shoes
5) They never try to copulate with a guest's leg
6) When either they die, or you get tired of them they are easy to get rid of. More people will accept them, or they fluch down the toilet nicely
7) If they get too big, they can be easily converted into New England Chowder.

So, as you can see..... fish are far superior to dogs or cats.

We have a fish tank too. Down to 3 fish due to lack of attention. Before dog #2 we had a cat. The cat did most of the household damage - the ornery little b@$t@rd. I don't ever want another one of those. He croaked this summer at age 16. I actually ran him over (accidentally ;) ) about 6 years ago, and had to spend $250 to get his jaw wired. The SOB wouldn't even die then! Do I sound bitter? He was the one that did the coach and drape damage. The dogs are very submissive to the head of the household - the lawn however, is suffering a bit.

#1,3,4 and 5 from the list hasn't been a problem at all. I have gotten a call about barking, but I think we have that in check now.

I have to agree with fish being great pets and keeping my son entertained, although it is irritating when you have to pull out Rescue Heroes or other toys :vfunny:

Currently my pet list includes:
37 fish
2 cats
1 dog
1 2 1/2 year old boy :D

I'll go 1 better. Check out the Aquarium Screen Saver in Window Plus for XP!!!! You don't have to feed or flush these, although removing a toy from their tank could mean serious problems!:biglaugh:

While I was on the road a couple of months ago, my wife gave in to the 8 year old boy and bought him two (Guaranteed - same sex) mice. We just had a second "litter". It's a good thing the pet store buys them back after six weeks!!!!!

I agree with all in saying that there is nothing to top the hug I still get after a terrible day (even on a good day)!!

Now if I just teach him the opposite of "NO". :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

Bill

You are making me conger up such wonderful memories and yearn for days past.
My sons are 29 and 25; live in California and I’m in Pennsylvania. I miss their happy faces and hugs!

Sue

We have a Mojave Green, an assortment of scorpions, 2 Sidewinders and an odd number of Black Widows in the yard somewhere.

Also Hamster goes real good in a tomato sauce for pasta.

No ....please....lets not start the house pet recipe thread.

Back to nice things like warm coffee, cinnamon rolls and kid talk.

Have a good one. For those of you who wondered, my new photo is my wrestling son I talked about in another thread. See the resemblance?

Have a good one.

an assortment of scorpions, 2 Sidewinders and an odd number of Black Widows in the yard somewhere.

I must say that is 1 thing I don't miss about SC especially when you add in the Fire Ants!!!! Your mention of the Black Widows reminded me of when I was stationed at POMFLANT (Polaris Missile Facility Atlantic) we would have to pull missile mag security duty every spring. The civilian workers were tasked with cleaning the mags in the spring and what a mess it was. The first time I was out there I had no clue of what to expect, we are in a very secure area, etc. Well here we are, in kevlar with M-16s and .45s, and we get the word that we have permission to open the mag. The civilian leader asks us if we're ready and starts the door opening. Now you have to understand, it is a beautiful sunny day and the cement of the apron is bright white. As soon as the door starts up, out comes a sea of shinning black spiders running across the apron. You see 4 guys armed to the teeth jumping around like a bunch or jumping beans. I know there were a couple hundred black widows, but it looked like we were being over run, like in a SciFi movie. Those civilian guys were cracking up at us - of course they knew what was about to happen and set us up good.
:biglaugh:

D_Wood said:

It is so great to know that no matter what goes on in the world or here at my job, I can be put at ease so quickly at home with a hug and a smile from my son.
-Dan- ;)
Reading these stories reminded me of a time my 3-year old daughter reminded me of what's important. It was during the boom times a few years ago and I was in a small company going thru a major growth spurt. I was chasing that carrot that my boss had on a stick and I had been working too many hours, often leaving for work before my daughter got up and coming home after she went to bed. Even on weekends I'd often be doing work at home. One evening I went home for supper but realized that I forgot some paperwork I needed because I had to call Japan that night. So, after supper I announced I was going back to work to get the papers and to my amazement my daughter asked if she could go with me. She was mostly a Mamma's girl, and this was unusual for her to want to leave Mom and come with me, but I was happy to take her with me. When we got to the plant I picked her up and carried her thru the shop so she wouldn't get hurt and into my office/lab area. Once I put her down in a safe area she looked up at me and with all the sincerity in the world asked, "Daddy, is this where you live now?" Of course I melted on the spot, picked her up and hugged her, and decided then and there I was gonna spend more time at home. And I did. I later told my wife the story and she swore she did no prompting or coaching that made my daughter ask that question. Kids can teach us a lot if we listen.

Okay. Gerbils. And no felching jokes, please! The kids wanted them so we bought two. The plastic trails and habitat. The whole set up. Every time I looked in there, there was a few more. Soon there was fighting and bleeding. The kids lost interest and I started to harvest and euthanize the mean ones. They hate snow! One day we went out and they had knocked the habitat cover off and were all loose downstairs. About a dozen. What to do? Introduce the cat. She had a ball. I tried to catch them with various sorts of harmless traps. No dice. We went out for a few hours and came home to find them all lined up in a row, sleeping. :vfunny: That was that. There was a Guinea Pig, once. It bit me. Bye bye. So now it’s two cats and a small dog. Like that story? You betcha! :confused: :smokin:

I'm glad my story touched the hearts of some of you. But some of you other guys worry me. You're not really this sick are you? :vfunny:

All kidding aside, I've enjoyed your replies - all of them. How about a fresh pot of coffee? I hear there are back-to-back snow storms on the way to the mid-west. :eek: I still have no big complaints about winter, as long as when March 21st gets here it looks and feels like Spring. ;)

Have a great day.
-Dan-

How about a fresh pot of coffee?

With this group, you might want to make it decaf.

D_Wood said:

I'm glad my story touched the hearts of some of you. But some of you other guys worry me. You're not really this sick are you?

Dan,

I know youv'e only been around a few weeks....just wait till this bunch really gets going!!!!!

Sick indeed

:vfunny: :biglaugh:

CarolX

Dan,
CarolX is right! Look at the thread "Peoples Attitudes, Depression, Roadkill Recipes and Other Thoughts". This group seems to have people in need of help. :biglaugh: Well at least you seem to be normal. Make my coffee with caffine and cream (real 100%whipping cream). :lick:

Normal? Are we talking about normal for a Cove dweller or normal in the real world?:vfunny:

Er.. Could I have a cup o' tea instead please..?

/Claes

Dan,

We're just finishing our digging out from the first real snow of the season (just as it winds down). Over 10" in some parts. Maybe a double expresso would be nice just about now. :thedeal:

:smokin: :smokin:

"If you want to be a Badger
Just come along with me
By the light, shining bright
By the light of the moon......"

Just had to have a little gloat for all you midwesterners in the Big 10 conference. Nobody gave Wisconsin much of a chance in buckets this year, in fact, a Big 10 representative wasn't even on the floor for the trophy presentation :confused: . Oh well, on to the tournament.

Bill

Congrats Bill. You won't get me down, the only season that rivals Wisconsin for surprise is Michigans IMO! For a coach to take these kids and turn them around (they made their mistakes like against Wisconsin) to make a season out of it was something. Even knowing that they can not go to any post season tourney.
Watch out for Penn State in the tourney, they seem to have a knack for putting it to the season champs.

You're right. Michigan was a surprise. (I guess even MSU was a surprise - but in the "wrong" way).

Good Luck to the Wolverines in the B10 tournament and I'm sorry I won't get to watch them in the NCAA (where I wish the entire conference well)!!
:smokin: :smokin:

Bill

Quite the season the Badgers had. Entertaining team to watch. Hope them well in the tournament.






Did somebody mention Gerbil!????? Nothing like a fat roasted gerbil on a stick dipped in a mustard sauce. Yummy.

Have not seen a roadkill all winter. Not even a chance to try and make one...bummer. The farmers get really mad when you chase their cows thru the fields with your truck, so it's been a boring winter so far. Oh well, skunks should be out and about shortly. Wife is looking forward to it..............

[color=firebrick

Have not seen a roadkill all winter. Not even a chance to try and make one...bummer.

ya'll just come on down south and pick up whatever ya want...
On the 30 minute drive to work there are 3 deer, a dozen hunting dogs, 2 'possums, 1 cat and several assorted UFO's (unidentified flat objects) I almost added one person to that tally this morning when some knuckle head ran the red light and turned into my lane.

Today's driving tip - 4WD, full size, extended cab pick-ups cannot stop in less than 30 feet when traveling 45mph. I missed her, but I bet she had to go home and change her underwear.:rolleyes:

Drive safely

Nice to see you back. Sure is nice ridin' witout dat burr under the saddle. ;) Go girl!:ko: :smokin:

My drive is one big ice pond this morning. They say March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb, I sure hope the metamophasis is starting to happen. The low was lousy 1 degree last night. Any animal with a tail killed on the road last night would have been RK on a stick!!!!! My daughter did like walking on "top" of the snow in the yard, but had a fit when she couldn't grab a hand full.
Whatever happened to Global Warming?????:bonk:

We were about as slippery as Randy on Monday. Tomorrow, however, at this time I'll be rockin' to Springsteen here is Rochester. Relatively small venue. About the only sunshine I can find around here in the 20 degree below average weather we're having. Spring? The only Sping in Rochester is Springsteen!

OK - I'll start a poll. But who should I include - concerts in the last 5 years.....(and not because you took your kids) The top 5 make the poll.

I don't know if any of mine would make the list. White Zombie, Page & Plant, Toad the Wet Sprocket, The Cure, J. Geils, Goo Goo Dolls, Pink Floyd, Linkin Park, Puddle of Mud, Janes Addiction, Alice in Chains, Smashing Pumpkins. That's what I can remember from the last 2 years. And I wonder why my hearing is going.
:bonk: :biglaugh: :vfunny: :eek:

Bruce rocked! We got a couple bonus classics - FIRE and BLINDED BY THE LIGHT which he hasn't been doing anywhere else. 3 hours straight. It was fun to watch someone love their job! I guess you have to be a Bruce nut like me to appreciate it.

It took me 2.5 hours to get to work this morning, it's only a 25 mile trip. I can't believe how much snow we're getting. The streets weren't plowed again and it's warm enough for salt to work well. Think the Oakland County Road Commision will answer an 8D request????:biglaugh:

Here is the reason I was late to work today........

Wow Randy - that stinks. They keep saying it will be 52 on Saturday here. I'll believe it when I see it. We had just a dusting today, but the salt trucks are done for the year from what I can tell. I've heard we were out of salt - so alittle sand is being used.

I just heard a guy from the Road Commission giving a reason why it was soooooo bad. Seems the heavy snow did hit until 7. They had plowed the stuff that fell between 1 & 4 but did get the main roads with the morning rush. We got 4" in 2 hours this morning and now the sun is out and melting it!!!! It's March in MI - and still wondering why I left SC!:bonk: :frust:

What I love about ice and snow is that when you go out to play, it's easy to find a place not littered with A.H.'s. There all inside waiting for Spring! For a little primer on a typical day of ice fishing in Connecticut, please see the attachment. To all you big Fisherman out there, I know your state has bigger and better. Here? Some of us take what we get and put them back for future enjoyment. There is one error in the photo, though. Where it says "beer", should be "Twisted Teas".:vfunny: :ko: :smokin:

Randy,

There should be no complaint today, here in Lapeer it is currently 62 with a beautiful sun! The downside is that the snow is melting and flooding the front yard. Oh well, it is Michigan!!!:)

energy:

That's a nice bass! Just how do those rigs work? I looks like the fish pulls the short pole out of some kind of catch, and the pole straightens up and sets the hook??? What kind of bait?

And, most important:

How do you keep the beer from freezing??

Craig

here in Lapeer it is currently 62 with a beautiful sun!
Yep, no complaints. What a beautiful weekend it was. Went to the Joe Saturday to see the Wings Kick some Colorado rear!!! We went to the Hockey Town Cafe and walk around Hear Plaza for awhile, just to be outside. It was great.

Craig,
No offense but I have to laugh a bit. I would tell people about ice fishing when I was in the Navy and they would give me a puzzled look too. I thought I knew something about it until I went up to northern MI. Now these guys do some ice fishing! 15+ horsepower motors on the ice augers, etc. Have you seen the movie Grumpier Old Men? They have some scenes with ice fishing in it.
As for keeping the beer from freezing, you just make sure you drink it faster than it freezes!!!

:biglaugh:

Craig H. said:

energy:

That's a nice bass! Just how do those rigs work? I looks like the fish pulls the short pole out of some kind of catch, and the pole straightens up and sets the hook??? What kind of bait?

And, most important:

How do you keep the beer from freezing??

Craig

The set up is a little complicated to explain here. Suffice to say that you bend the metal strip, which has a hook or hole just past the flag, down to a trigger on the reel. There are several types. Here's the important part. When the flag goes up, that's only to catch your attention that something has hit the "shiner" swimming around lightly hooked through the back near the top fin. They swim around for hours. In fact, most bait stay active for 7 or 8 hours or until you leave. They are quite alive when we release them back into the hole after we are done. Now, when you approach the hole, the reel which is submerged, may be screaming out line or just barely peeling off line. You then, very gingerly, lift the rig out of the hole making sure you put no tension on the line. You strip out about 3 to 7 FT of line and rest in between your fingers. It now becomes a waiting game between you and the fish as to when you set the hook. Many fish are lost to premature attempts to set the hook. You snap your wrist about 3 inches when you set. Then it's hand over hand with an eye on the bottom edge of the hole. Many fish are lost there because they can get caught on the edge. If you see a "screamer" where the line is flying of the reel, you simply grab the line and set it. Mostly, it's a patience game. Oh, I do love it so. I think this last weekend was it. We are in a severe meltdown. Then it's time for the little boat. Hey, thanks for asking! :vfunny: :vfunny:

Oh, beverage with minimal amounts of alcohol doesn't freeze. It just sits on this gigantic ice cube along with you.:ko: :smokin:

energy said:

To all you big Fisherman out there, I know your state has bigger and better. Here? Some of us take what we get and put them back for future enjoyment.
Energy,

Looks like a darn nice bass to me. A trophy is in the eye of the holder. Different areas naturally have different size fish and game. Yeah, there are palces in Texas, FL, and elsewhere where that fish is almost bait-size for their bass, but it's not fair to compare. I've fished in a river in my area for over 20 years and the largest bass I've caught was about that size; my Dad has fished it for over 50 years, fishing at times for 2 weeks straight, and he knows almost every rock in the river, and a 4 3/4 pounder was the largest he ever caught. It's the same with deer. In some places what constitutes a trophy is a small deer in other places. But what matters most is how YOU feel about it -- the heck with everyone else. :bigwave:

Nice fish energy. We were also out this weekend. Nothing like sitting out on 28" of ice in 67 degree weather. Crappies were on their feeding binge, some up to a couple of pounds.




They are quite alive when we release them back into the hole after we are done.

Do that here in Wisconsin and you'll be donating money to the DNR fund. :eek:

Yes, energy, I must admit that is a nice fish. I am however having a hard time determining what bait you were using to catch it on. Is that a sucker hanging out of its mouth?:vfunny: :vfunny:

Ken K said:

Do that here in Wisconsin and you'll be donating money to the DNR fund. :eek:

You know. I believe you're right. Unless, I trapped the minnows in the same body of water that I'm fishing. Which, of course, is what we did. :biglaugh: :biglaugh:

That's one of those things that we tend to forget. Kill them by throwing on land or in a garbage can, feed the hungry fish or possibly introduce another species to a pond or lake. Well, Pond Shiners are everywhere. I do know on this pond their life expectancy would be short. Lots of big Pickerel. Thanks for the reminder.

I also learned recently that most of our live shiners are farm grown down South and trucked here for our use. So now we have fish from another state being introduced to our delicate eco system. See the trouble you can get into when you open up. Geeeeesh!:rolleyes: :ko: :smokin:

The issue up here right now is the spread of zebra mussles and other exotics. One of the best yellow perch baits up here was small crawfish, less than 1". Then came the rusty crawfish which litterally defoliated some of our lakes. Then came the ban on live crawfish. I think if they find some in your boat they sink it with you in it. :D

Now we have CWD in our deer herd. What the heck is next? :confused:

Our ice must not be 28" thick. In the Saturday thaw 14 Ice fishermen went swimming. Several more "rescued" from their ice. I'm sure they were hoping for one more day...but it was 60+ degrees. DUH.

We have the same problem with the zebra mussles and the CWD has started in the deer herd here. I haven't heard about the crayfish though but I did read a story in the Lakes Area Spinal Column (local paper) about finding a school of pirahna somewhere in the Great Lakes.
I usually use a small pumpkin seed or blue gill. This past weekend would have been nice to be out but for the most part if I want to ice fish I'll pull fish sticks out of the freezer!!!:vfunny:

One of our local lakes, Crystal, has a real infestation of rusties. One night we were down by the boat landing and the lake bottom was moving. That's how thick they are. Aggressive little buggers too. I've actually caught some years ago while ice fishing.

The ice isn't that bad here yet Laura. They are still driving on the lakes around here. Last ice is the best ice and you'll actually see guys wearing life preservers while walking out on their favorite lake during last ice.

Although we did lose quite a few people this year on Winnebago. Quite a few cars and snowmobiles went in and some didn't make it back out.

Okay, the high was 71 today. Most of the 8" I had on my front lawn is gone. But, as predictible for Michigan, the temp is falling! We won't see the upper end of 50 for another week or so. Dan, make another pot! Snow is sure to return! :smokin:

Good morning,

Glad to see Spring is sprouting all around. 70° weather here for the last 3 days. Got some thunder storms on the way, but hey, that's part of Spring. And I even think I heard the mushrooms stirring under the ground already. :vfunny: These warms nights and a good ol' thunder boomer will have them babies sprouting for sure.

Good day to all of you.
-Dan- ;)

Laura M said:

Our ice must not be 28" thick. In the Saturday thaw 14 Ice fishermen went swimming. Several more "rescued" from their ice. I'm sure they were hoping for one more day...but it was 60+ degrees. DUH.

28" of ice is enough to hold a vehicle. I suggest these 14 guys were not on 28" of ice. They were probably all bunched together in a circle either praying or playing the circle game on less than 6". A crazed or ballsy lone individual can walk on 4" of ice. I have ) I don't like to do it because there may be places where it is "2" or "3" inches. No, there's something wrong with those stats. I went out Sunday in 60 degree temperature and the ice was as thick as it was Saturday (18-20") with a couple of inches of water/slush on the top. By this Wednesday, if this warm weather holds up, the ice will still be about 8 inches. It doesn't melt as fast as people think. And, no, I've never fell in. Okay Ken, let me have it! I'm not crazy about your politics but you are truly a brother fisherman and that transcends all, even ISO.:vfunny: :ko: :smokin:

Okay Ken, let me have it! I'm not crazy about your politics but you are truly a brother fisherman and that transcends all, even ISO.

Gee energy, someone had to keep Mike S. in line...just trying to do my part. Enjoyed playing with his mind. Sort of kept him honest. :D :cool:



The bad part about last ice is it's deteriorating from both sides. The sun is beating down from above and the warmer water from below from all the run-off. Best fishing of the year if you don't mind getting wet. Probably won't be driving out too much longer, but my life vest has been removed from storage.



You might be able to take my gun, but you'll never take my rod!

Ken K said:

Gee energy, someone had to keep Mike S. in line...just trying to do my part. Enjoyed playing with his mind. Sort of kept him honest. :D :cool:

One fisherman keeping another honest? Hah! ;)

One fisherman keeping another honest? Hah!

How could they tell?

28" of ice is enough to hold a vehicle. I suggest these 14 guys were not on 28" of ice. They were probably all bunched together in a circle either praying or playing the circle game on less than 6". A crazed or ballsy lone individual can walk on 4" of ice. I have ) I don't like to do it because there may be places where it is "2" or "3" inches. No, there's something wrong with those stats.

There is another possiblity energy, around here we have lakes that have 20+" in some places and less than 1/2 " less than 100 yards away. It might be possible that they ventured out on thin ice due to an undergound spring, an area with a lot of water movement, or perhaps the effulent from a nuclear power plant.

And as a fellow fisherman, you know I'm telling the truth. :rolleyes:

Too many beans perhaps?




This was a fish of a lifetime which is still swimming around today. She was out of the water just long enough to get a tape on her (42.5") before being released. Estimated weight of 24-30 pounds.
Second trip out this winter.

Ken K said:

Too many beans perhaps?

This was a fish of a lifetime which is still swimming around today. She was out of the water just long enough to get a tape on her (42.5") before being released. Estimated weight of 24-30 pounds.
Second trip out this winter.

Ken,

Beautiful Pike. Nice tip up rig. Never saw one like that. Those must be for BIG ice. Great looking hemostats hanging from the collar. Dual purpose? :vfunny: :ko: :smokin:

db said:

There is another possiblity energy, around here we have lakes that have 20+" in some places and less than 1/2 " less than 100 yards away. It might be possible that they ventured out on thin ice due to an undergound spring, an area with a lot of water movement, or perhaps the effulent from a nuclear power plant.

And as a fellow fisherman, you know I'm telling the truth. :rolleyes:

db, absolutely true. You have to know the water before you venture out into areas where there is a possibility of moving water. But, my experience is that there is a slight discoloration in those suspect areas. But, if they were newbees, it can happen. We have to be aware of where we are. Even after we drill a hole, I always take the ladle and reach down to check depth. Puts me in the comfort zone. ;) Not to mention the intial test hole which we do about 5 ft from shore!:biglaugh: :ko: :smokin:

Nice fish there Ken!
Great looking hemostats hanging from the collar I don't feel so bad now, I noticed them too. I was almost embarrased. Thanks energy.

Randy Stewart said:

Nice fish there Ken!
I don't feel so bad now, I noticed them too. I was almost embarrased. Thanks energy.

Randy,

Embarrassed? I'm envious! I used to have a pair and they were better than the pliers they sell today for removing hooks. The hemostats are thinner, easier to handle and easier to see around for that delicate operation. In addition, a fisherman can always explain why they have them. Without a tackle box and tackle, try explaining why you may have them under the seat of your car or clipped on your collar. Hello? It's also helpful to keep the tips free of any discoloration.:vfunny:

energy said:

Randy,

Embarrassed? I'm envious! I used to have a pair and they were better than the pliers they sell today for removing hooks. The hemostats are thinner, easier to handle and easier to see around for that delicate operation. In addition, a fisherman can always explain why they have them. Without a tackle box and tackle, try explaining why you may have them under the seat of your car or clipped on your collar. Hello? It's also helpful to keep the tips free of any discoloration.:vfunny:

Pssst Say the word and I can send you a couple pairs, we have lots of them where I work.
:thedeal:

You guys were supposed to be looking at the fish... :eek:




Actually, they are multiple purpose and they don't rust.

Good for removing hooks from fish, fingers, heads, etc. :D

Helps when pulling the tag end thru when tying knots.

Clamps onto the end of the line when a gator bites you off and you don't look foolish fumbling around looking for the line.

Can stop bleeding when fish bites down on a finger. :mad:




Other than that, I have no idea what your talking about... :D

It's also helpful to keep the tips free of any discoloration.
Is the discoloration you're talking about come from when the fish swallows the hook? I always get 2 or 3 a year that I just can't get the hook out of and they bleed on the stats! I just didn't know that the blood was what caused the discoloration! :biglaugh: Learned something new again.
I had a pair taken away last year. I was launching my boat and a Wolverine Lake peace officer was there. The public launch just happens to be behind the cop shop. I had used the stats while fishing on shore and had clipped them on my pole, when I loaded the boat I clipped them on the ignition key float. Even though they weren't discolored he wanted to see in the car, boat, etc. Put it this way, I'm glad I gave the illegal stuff up long ago.
:smokin: :vfunny: :biglaugh:

I had a pair taken away last year. Stew, are you serious? They were taken away? No self-respecting cop would take away someones hemostat. (of course we are talking about the metropolis of Wolverine Lake - drove through there today.) They are even sold by Cabelas! Not even an ISO auditor would be that low!

If any of you don't know what a pike's or walleye's mouth is like, try putting your hand in the garbage disposal and turning it on. I still have scars! Also, hemostats are the safest way to dislodge hooks on fish you wish to return. They cause a lot less damage than pliers.

energy, are you serious about not seeing a Beaver Dam tip-up? These are the cadilacs of tip-ups in the midwest. I also use wind tip-ups which impart action on the bait so it doesn't always stay stationary. Instead of just tying on a hook, I put a small swedish pimple on for color and flash (you do know what a swedish pimple is, right?):cool:




ISO GUY, thanks for the offer. I bought a lot of 48 of em off Ebay recently. Always losing the darn things.

Ken K said:

energy, are you serious about not seeing a Beaver Dam tip-up? These are the cadilacs of tip-ups in the midwest. I also use wind tip-ups which impart action on the bait so it doesn't always stay stationary. Instead of just tying on a hook, I put a small swedish pimple on for color and flash (you do know what a swedish pimple is, right?):cool:


Right Ken. Swedish Pimple and all of that. Never saw one of those rigs. I have seen some rigs that keep the bait moving depending on the amount of wind. But. us Easterners have a lot to learn when it comes to fishing on the Big Ice. Still, a great fish and super hemostat. Sounds like time for True Confessions. I have no clue as to what these guys are talking about. Do you?:smokin:
:vfunny: :ko: :smokin:

2 inches of snow, a daytime high of 40 degrees can only mean 1 thing, looks like a Tigers Opening Day to me. It will be interesting to see how downtown handles it today. Even though the Wings face off is at 7:30, the place will be full of partyers (how else do you get through a baseball game?) trying to get home about the time people are trying to get to the JOE!

Hey Stew!

Will they be throwing the baseball, or the snowball? :biglaugh: Gee, too bad I've got to work!

Go figure. It was a beautiful afternoon today, near 70 and the Tigers have a night game. They have an afternoon game tomorrow and it's suppose to rain and be cold! Could it be a curse?????

The '84 Tigers are soooo untouchable here. I happened to be in the middle of the North Atlantic during the playoffs and got called out after the first game of the series against the Padres so I didn't get to see much. I trust that the town has a little patience with Tram. Look what Joe D. has done with the Pistons (just got back from the game tonight with Toronto - bummer). I actually have some hope for them with Gibby, Tram and Parish but it's going to take some time to put a TEAM together. Too many interim fixes with no permanent corrective actions!!!:biglaugh:
:eek:
Going back to another thread and a few weeks; let me know if you're coming out this way again and we'll have to stop and have a pop (as Mickey Redmond would say).

More coffee OK.

Well, we just went through a major ice storm with no powere for 40 hours. We actually made out alot better than some others.

Energy - didn't you start the Zoloft thread awhile ago - or was that Al. Anyway - if you have any leftovers, can you send it my way? We're supposed to be looking at daffodils and crocuses, but instead its 2 inches of ICE.

Looking at the forecast - it would appear some of our buddies in Michigan are really getting it today too.

Will is ever end? My son was supposed to have his first golf match for school golf team today. AAARRRRGGGGG!!!!!!!!!

Ok, now I see about the editing thing. I tried to add a line about and got the "finger."

Randy
Don't misinterpret - I'm a die hard Tigers fan ("grew up" in Tiger Stadium when the Lions were still playing there) but I don't think the weather is going to make any difference with them this year. The one nice thing is, I think they have a chance for a better record than the Brewers and I might be able to make some money off the Tigers for a change!!

We're in the midst of about a four inch snowstorm today. The nice thing is, it will be gone by the weekend (?????).

Laura - nice to see you haven't left.

Bill

A team worse than the Tigers!!!!!!! Oh my, I feel for you Bill. If we would have had this weather yesterday it may have saved them the embarrasment of that 8th inning.

I have been a fan since '66, the first game my dad took me to. He used to work at the International Milling Company where the RenCen is now, remember it? Robin Hood Flour? Anyway, most of the players had to have job during the off season back then and a couple of the relieve pitchers worked with him. The only one I really remember was a guy named Patterson, he brought me an autographed ball after spring training. It turned out the team happened to have a good season that year '68.

I've been to a couple Lions games there too, sitting out in the cold.
Kinda like today!!! 6 inches on the ground already and calling for freezing rain tonight. I haven't had power since Wednesday, isn't spring great!:frust:

:biglaugh: :vfunny:

If this is spring, then what season is it when the little flowers show up, the birds chirps and the trees start growing leaves?

Randy - since Wednesday? How are you making out. We had a bit of an adventure - the kids chopped wood (watching out for falling branches from the ice) and played games like Chess - I actually enjoyed watching that happed. Need to turn the electricity off more often! But if it were out for almost a week the novelty would have worn off big time.

Go Syracuse!!!!!

Been at grandmas house. Being from the lakes area most of us are on a well and when the electric goes you have no water! I can do without the electricity but I don't care to be without water and showers!!!! Not to mention my co-workers.
Right before opening day it was really nice for about a week, I think I slept through the the rest of spring and the whole summer! I'm back to fall and winter.:eek: Why oh Why did I leave South Carolina?????:bonk: :frust:

In '91 we had another ice storm and our power was out for 4 days. We were on a well then so I know all about it. We did have a wood stove in that house so we were nice and toasty. This time it was chilly in the house, but we had hot water. Nothing like stepping out of a hot shower into a 45 degree room! Since it was only 40 hours we did OK. Keep warm. It sounds like we in it for while.

Had to shave at work this morning (electric razor). Power company says I should have electricity by Friday afternoon (lost it last Friday evening). Wow! This is the worst I've seen since the mid-70's.

Pancreas Al might not get power, up there in Lapeer Land for another week!

But this is spring....in Michigan. All we need now is a 6" rain to go on top of our 4" of snow and 2" of ice!

Big winter storm watch yesterday. Schools out early, events cancelled, etc. First glance out the windows indicates a whopping 2" in spots. Ice, mostly. Connecticut had an agressive tree cutting plan a few years ago where they just come by and cut anything approaching electrical lines. Seems like it worked, at least in this area. In spite of all the ice storms and heavy snow this year, we lost power, maybe twice and it was very short. The longest time was an hour. It's nice to have lots of trees and a beautiful scenic drive. You just have to keep those power lines free of possible damage from encroaching nature. In a lot of cases, the tree cutting companies cut a passage through the trees for the wires and left the trees pretty much intact. Haven't seen the crews lately, so it may be time. I mean, who wants to be without power for a week? Pwew! In the Northeast section of the state, considered the most affluent areas, they want to live in these remote areas amid the woodlands. They have gone without power for days and it makes me feel real bad. :p :ko: :smokin:

Well we're still at the in-laws today. Car is frozen in a sheet of ice, schools closed, cable out, no final 4 game last night........ b1tch, moan, groan and complain. It's nice to have family to take you in. My mom and sisters live in WV so if it wasn't for the in-laws I'd be hurtin'. Yes my mother-in-law was looking over my shoulder as I wrote that. No just kidding. I guess if my biggest complaint is that I don't have power for a few days or my cable went out, I'm not doing too bad. Yes it's not easy being without power but I've seen worse (tents and mud comes to mind). If missing seeing 'cuse steel about $500 from my basketball pool is all I can complain about, then things and times aren't all bad. We (myself included) take soo much for granted we really miss what it's all about. My daughter turned 2 on Monday and that's what really matters.
I've been through war, hurricane (Hugo), tornado and they scrapped me up off the road after a motorcycle accident but I'm still here and my daughter doesn't mind hugging me or giving this old man a kiss!!!! Life is good. Ice, snow, MI spring take a backseat. My little one just bounced a nurf ball off my head and she needs tickled!!!
Have a good one folks.:biglaugh: :bigwave:

Yes, Stew, you speak truth, however they better have the power on by Thursday night (Redwing's playoff), or I'll really be ticked!

We just got finished with our 3-4 inch "dump" of wet snow. Didn't have any of the power outtages you guys in Michigan are going through (hope you're all back "on line" real quick). It's already begun melting.

Now we're supposed to warm up to 70s by Saturday with a ton of sunshine. My son and I are eagerly awaiting the "bedding of the bluegills". This is the first season he's shown any anticipation and excitement for fishing (8 yrs. old). Suppose the "full sized" rod & reel for Christmas had something to do with it.

Congrats to Syracuse - they played great defense when Kansas was shooting free throws :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

Bill

I think it is great that you fish with your son. My father took my brother and me fishing quite often. Still enjoy going out with him! My kids still enjoy going out with me (they're in the upper teens now).

What I did with my kids (doesn't work too good when on the beds though) is I tied a popper to 4lb test (about 3 ft) tied the other end to a bobber (so they could cast) and let them do some surface fishing. The gills hammered the popper and the kids loved to watch the action! We still do it sometimes (when we're not using a fly rod)!

Enjoy!!!

Awwwww... We've been enjoying nice warm spring weather over here for a couple of weeks. Then, booom: Snowfall and everything freezing over again, and now I'm told we'll have a blizzard on top of us in the afternoon. Groan... :rolleyes:

/Claes

Well Claes I feel for you. It's been a rough few days for me. Looks like things are looking up though. Back to work and warmer weather for the weekend. Besides, due to the cold the Tigers didn't lose yesterday - they cancelled the game!!!:biglaugh:

Oh -yeah - We got 80 degrees today.... tomorrow is another story - but I'm off with a brewski to get in the sun, and unfortunately, clean up damage from the ice storm.....

You southerners need not reply. Us northerners take it when we can get it.....

It actually rained here yesterday!!! Mothers took their children out in it so they would know not to fear it.

It rained so much this old dude came buy selling seats in his boat that was already full of animals. His name was No something.

My roof leaked around both of my skylights!!! We've been in this house 10 years and never had a problem. Now that we have it for sale and people are looking I have this "D-amnage" in the ceiling of a sitting room and the master bath!!!:mad: **&@@

The wind blew so hard I lost part of the lattice work on one of our patios and the garage is now a wading pool where the water blew under the door. The cat even moved to higher ground!

KRAP!!:(

Yowza - I think that's coming our way. That's why I'm enjoying today. Just finished raking 6 wheelbarrels full of storm debris. There are some high winds right now, time for one more on the deck before I get to work on dinner!

oopsie, Thought it was Michigan Randy. Oh well, that Sheeit you're getting is probably coming our way too. Sorry to hear about your troubles. We have a high of 81 today, tomorrows high is 50 with a low of 26 and ice warnings. We don't know whether to have firewood ready or a cookout. My son actually camped out last nite at the neighbors. Tomorrow we'll be scraping ice. Go with the flow, I guess. I got my Firebird out today from a long winter of storage. Looks like its back in for a few more days.

L

Nope this is Mojave Desert (emphasis on DESERT) Randy. We have an offer on the house and a wet ceiling.......KRAP:mad:

Good luck Randy There are probably similar stories here - 'had an offer and a tree fell through the roof' - hope it goes well. Maybe we're just used to it! Desert still sound better than this - if we did the stats on average temp and rain/snow fall?

Seriously - sounds like a mess - hope everything works out.

It was so nice here yesterday, I ditched work early and took the grand-kids to the park and out for ice cream. I was surrounded by kids at the park.

Rain and cold today and for the next couple of days.

It was nice while it lasted. Winter will not be missed this year! Just wish it would leave completely.

Can't believe what a great mood I've been in today. My son received his First Communion yesterday and the emotions that bubbled up as he actually received the host just about blew me apart. Seems like it carried over (hope it sticks around!!!)

Saturday, after practice, I took him fishing (without Mom) and the 'gills were practically jumping on to the shore. Had a great afternoon filled with "catch and release" (most of them anyway) and talking.

Sometimes I want to "drill" him but then days like this weekend remind me of the more important things in life.

:bigwave: :bigwave:

Bill

Sounds like a real day to remember Bill!!!!!!

Great!!
Al...

Congrats Bill,

The milestones are moments to remember. It is hard to choke back the pride tears! May there be many more.

Laura

Morning everyone!

I'm trying to get my courage up to do an inspection of all the barns and outbuildings. Got hit by a twister late yesterday afternoon. Good Grief!

My youngest was at home, I had just picked up my oldest from band practice and run to the store. This thing picked up my truck and just held it in midair (luckily, it just held it) I got home to pull limbs out of the state road so I could pull them out of my lane to get home, only to find the siding ripped off the house and about 80 foot of roof missing off one of the barns.

You can imagine that by this time I am frantic with worry about son#2... I got into the house to have him tell me that the county has paged out all rescue squad members and I better get going, "cuz, Mom, there might be some people out there that need your help"

Do you laugh or cry? It's moments like those that make you realize that no matter what else happens (and believe me raising 2 boys involves a lot of that:biglaugh: ) you've done a good job and taught them the important stuff.

Stay safe, friends....anybody know a good roofer? How about a Cove barn-raising?

Wow!
Sounds like you had some scary moments.:eek:
But finding everyone safe sure puts things in perspective doesn't it?
I have family in Norman, OK and I get very nervous about bad weather in their area. Those poor folks in Moore, OK hit once again.
Be careful out there.

So sorry to hear about your misfortune, but glad that everyone is OK.

Would be glad to participate in a barn-raising if I lived closer to NC!! I used to travel there on business - Cherryville. Must check with friends there to see if they are OK too!

Sounds like you're doing a fine job rearing your 2 boys - it can be challenging! My two are grown now and live in California, but I still check on them when I hear there is a quake!

Take care,

Sue

SteelMaiden said:


Stay safe, friends....anybody know a good roofer? How about a Cove barn-raising?

WOW Steel!!! You had to be a wreck getting home. We have tornado "watches" right now, but they never really hit us. I think we feel left out when the rest of the country is getting hit. Sure we get high winds and the "right" conditions - but nothing like what we see on TV. Of course the worst we had in a long time was about 6 years ago, and we were all watching the LPGA here in town when they blew the siren. We were told to "take cover" Tents with tables and chairs were blowing everywhere and we were waiting in line for the bus to take us home. My current 11 year old, 5 at the time has been afraid of bad weather ever since.

So, I'm glad in the end, everything is OK? One of those "it could have been worse" scenarios I would guess.

We'll see if the roofer volunteers!

Happy Mother's Day to all the Cove MOM's!

Hey Sue,
Going to be down the street from you this weekend! I'll be down in Shippensburg at the PA State Track Meet. My son Paul made it in the pole vault.
I know it's late notice, but can you pick me up at the airport???:biglaugh:

I was hoping the weather would be better but no luck there.

Well, hope all of you have a great holiday weekend.

Hi Randy,

Yeh, that is a little short notice for a 4 hour trip - next time give me more notice:D .

Actually would love to meet someone from the Cove provided they aren't a figment of someone's imagination!

Wish your son the best of luck even though the weather is absolutely lousy here in PA for the BIG weekend.

I took the afternoon off to clean - company for the weekend - nothing like using vacation time to work at home:bonk:

Sue

Hey I'll wait at the airport for you!?!?!?!?

I hope he overcomes the weather, he doesn't jump until 12:30 tomorrow so we'll be praying for no wind and some sun!

Are you sure I can't talk you into standing up your invited company to drive 4 hours in the rain to meet my ex-wife and her boyfriend!:eek:

Gees what do you have to offer women these days!

Enjoy.:vfunny: :biglaugh:

Hi Randy,

Due to company arriving early, I didn’t get your message in time to pick you up at the airport:( . But if you found spending time with the ex and her boyfriend to be a rewarding experience, I could use an escort to my son’s wedding in July when I have to spend 4 days with my ex and his wife:frust: At least it will be in sunny California and not rainy, dreary PA!!

According to the weather forecast (for what it is worth), the rain is only scheduled to commence in late afternoon in the Pittsburgh area, so hopefully your son will get to jump on schedule. Regardless of the weather or the outcome, I'm sure he is just happy that you are there to see him perform. You deserve a pat on the back for making the trip and enduring the 'company'!

Have a good Memorial Day weekend!

Sue

They held the pole vault inside this time. He cleared 14'6" and finished 7th. He didn't have a miss until then. I was almost reduced to tears seeing him at the medal ceremony. I am so proud of him.
I was able to spend a good deal of time with my daughter and grandaughter too. So it was a good weekend even made it home in time to have some ribs and see the sun yesterday!!!

You know what, I did find it just a little rewarding to see the ex and her boyfriend. He did seem to feel more uncomfortable than I did though. And to hear her b1tch about the same things with him as she did with me . . . she hasn't changed a bit. Just kinda re-enforces the feeling that you made the right decision! She has done a good job in raising the kids, I always give her credit for that and I'm thankful for our kids. I just wish I knew then what I know now!!!!!

I'm working on a chance of going with my son to Austrialia in July for the International Invitational High School meet. Seeing if the finances will support it.

Randy,

Glad to hear your son did so well! Our local schools competed and the girls did a remarkable job ***Dead Link Removed***

I didn't see any mention of anyone going to Australia though - does the school sponsor this?

I think my ex's wife will be uncomfortable too; actullay wish she'd bow out! My sons never considered her their step-mother and didn't particularly enjoy time spent with her.:rolleyes:


Sue

Thanks Sue,
We have been trying to raise money for him to go. He received the invitation 2 or 3 months ago. I don't know of anyone else in PA choosen to go, not that there isn't anyone. He leaves 7/4 to head down under and I would like to go with him for support and just to see Austrialia. The school isn't sponsoring it but has joined in with some fund raising also the City Council on New Castle issued him a commission last month and said they would help get him there. What else is happening I don't know. His mother keeps me in the dark until the last minute.

Good morning folks.
4 inches of fresh snow and the third Monday in a row for our local school to be closed. There will be 6" of this stuff before it all ends by Noon. A good layer of ice underneath too.And 2 years later, Indiana gets it again!

We've got about 4 inches on the ground and a white Christmas this year. Right now it's about 9 degrees outside and crystal clear.