Monday, May 30, 2011

Europin'

So, as most of you are aware, Animal House is really a creation myth not just the best movie ever. I followed its lead in mid April when confronted by a dwindling bank account, a desire to no longer work [nothing new there] and the fact that Lesley was living in London for the semester and Emily was planning on a visit, I decided to hit the VISA card hard and go visit the "old" Europe.

Left for London where on the first morning met a good friend name Simon. He was from Africa [country began with a "Z"] and wanted his picture taken next to a brand new Audi. I suggested the new Jaguar a few rows over and we became fast friends. Was going to use the picture to promote his micro lending scheme whereby he promised to make 300% profit per month. First time I have ever met one of those e mail writers in person. They do exist so maybe the rest of their stories are true.

Spent a wonderful week in London visiting many new places and some of the old we had seen together in 1993. This is taken in the exact same spot outside Buckingham Palace where we witnessed the changing of the guard back then. We were there this time to return our tickets to the wedding the next week as we thought the crowds would be a bit much. Didn't miss much as our seats were right behind the Beckhams and not in a particularly good location.

I did see that the Queen does not have WIFI in the palace. But did notice that many of the people attending the wedding brought their own in the form of satellite dishes disguised as hats.

Sunday, May 15, 2011

Workin'

So, my time in FL came to and end followed by an intensive four weeks of work in an effort to pay for the last five. Don't have any pictures of my labor but an interesting conversation to recount.

A long time friend announced his retirement. Sitting with him one day before the morning session began we discussed his future plans. After awhile I told him that every once in awhile I felt jealous of my friends retiring with safe and secure pensions. He sort of smiled and said that as far as he was concerned I had been retired from the moment we first met 35 years ago. On reflection, I would have to agree. Retirement is only a state of mind. Careers have it ass backwards allowing people freedom from the work routine when their health is in decline and their kids have moved away. Next up will be a series of discussions on travels in foreign countries spending my children's inheritance.

I'd also like to thank all my many fans who inquired as to my next post. Both of you have way too much free time.