Who Your friends are

Yesterday I had several friends over to try out the new barbecue grill. The temperatures were in the low eighties, but it was too hot for me on the deck. I spent some time on the deck, but mostly I was inside in the air conditioning. In order to beat the heat I had ice packs on my neck and groin. Being a quadriplegic, my body is unable to sweat below my injury line or regulate my body temperature. The ice packs try to cool me down.

Now here is where you find out who your true friends are, imagine asking people to move the ice packs from your neck or your groin... That's the quad test of your true friends, everyone passed.

Permobil C-500

Well it's been a few days and so far everything is working out great with the wheelchair. Jason and Steven from permobil replaced all of the electronics on my C- 500 and I'm back up and rolling.

I plan on having a few friends over today to enjoy the sunshine and 80°temperatures. Listening to some good music and trying out the new grill. Summers on the deck can be a lot of fun!

New Grill

The Burners in my old grill finally gave way last night, I knew it was only a matter of time. I was really hoping to get one more season and purchase one at the end of the year on sale. As we all know that never happens.

So I was able to pick one up at a Lowes today. It came pre assembled which was fantastic, unfortunately the side burner is not working! I called the 800 number and they will be sending a replacement burner..... It's always something. Tomorrow it's some kind of meat on a stick for dinner.

Blog Turns Two

It's hard to believe but PittRehab turns two tomorrow, I have been rambling on for two years already! 1,059 post so far, I really enjoy having this forum to put my thoughts down on, thanks for sticking around and all your comments.

Friday's Thoughts

Am I the only one who remembers how strange Michael Jackson really was? Every news program I turn on is talking about the king of pop... I agree that he was very musically talented, but there was no one stranger in music than him.... Let's not even talk about the two pedophile cases... jeez

So since I cannot watch CNN or headline news, I'm sitting at my computer listening to music and drinking tea. You can bet my play list does not include Michael Jackson. It's more like The Beach Boys, ZZ Top and Aerosmith. But hey that's just me. Have a great Friday and enjoy your weekend!

Farrah Fawcett dies at 62

Like millions of teenage boys I had a thing for the charlie's angels star, Farrah Fawcett. Hopefully her family finds peace and her suffering is finally over.

North Carolina Program Pays Girls a Dollar a Day Not to Get Pregnant - Local News | News Articles | National News | US News - FOXNews.com

North Carolina Program Pays Girls a Dollar a Day Not to Get Pregnant - Local News | News Articles | National News | US News - FOXNews.com Hardly anything surprises me anymore, but Paying girls age 12 to 18 a dollar a day not to get pregnant was a surprise... In order to enroll in the program your sister had to become pregnant before age 18... I guess the state is looking to provide incentive to young girls, but really? A dollar a day not to become pregnant?

How about equal pay for equal work? Pay young boys a dollar a day not to inseminate these young women.... How crazy does that sound? What are your thoughts on this program?

T shirts

 I have ordered a few tee shirts from the Nth Degree  in the past and just recently ordered this spectacular shirt.  Now granted it's not for everyone, and it would be highly inappropriate for you able bodied walkies…  But for us quadriplegics it is funny as hell.

Nothing against you walkies, cause as Beth says “ someone has to stand in line for the beer….” Sometimes a little bit of humor goes a long way to improve my outlook on life.  If we can’t laugh at ourselves, it makes it really difficult to get through the day .

Wicked Wednesday

This morning I am enjoying a bowl of fresh blackberries from the garden along with a few red raspberries. 

It looks like a beautiful day here in Pittsburgh, I plan on spending some time on the deck this morning soaking in some sunshine.

Permobil representatives are coming around 11:00 AM to put new modules on my C-500 wheelchair.  Hopefully that solves the joystick errors from occurring.  I had another one yesterday in my kitchen, fortunately Adam was home to rescue me.  I had Nala try to pull the breaker but she was unable to complete it herself.  After several tries she laid beside my chair in frustration, at least she tried (if only service dogs had thumbs)...  This will be something we need to work on if the errors continue.

Jimmy Buffett Pittsburgh

Buffett is in town today for his summer cool tour 2009.  I am a huge Jimmy Buffett fan and over the years have probably seen over 15 shows live.

Unfortunately I will not be attending this year's show for two reasons.  Number one is ticket prices, they are Outrageous and I already sold a kidney to attend this year's Stanley cup finals….

But the main reason is , as a person with quadriplegia I am unable to regulate my body temperature.  I cannot be outside in the heat very long before my body rebels.  I have difficulty breathing and it’s just not worth it.  The last Jimmy Buffett concert I went to was at PNC Park and the temperatures were in the nineties.  I had to leave halfway through the concert because I thought I was going to die.

The great thing about Jimmy Buffett concerts is they are a carnival atmosphere, everyone is there to have a good time and a good time is had by all.  I have never seen any trouble or fights at a concert, just people including myself limboing (RECLINE feature on wheelchair) and sharing jello shots.

Another cool thing about the concerts is they are broadcast live on the Internet for free!  So tonight I will be in my air conditioning possibly drinking a Malibu rum and coke, glued to my computer listening for " a pirate looks at 40" you can too by going to margaritaville its just one click away to a new Latitude !

Father's Day And Black Bears

When I was younger I was an avid hunter.  I guess you could say I liked to hunt as much as most people like oxygen, I didn't have to do it, but I would turn blue and pass out without it...

Dave a friend of mine, and I took a trip to Canada specifically to hunt black bears one's spring.  We loaded up my truck with enough gear to invade Canada.  We spent a week in Canada and seen several moose, millions of black flies and billions of mosquitoes, but not one single black bear.

I spoke with my dad today for father's day, and he said a black bear was walking down the street yesterday morning at 7:00 AM in front of his house.  At one time I searched all over Pennsylvania for a black bear, traveled to Canada and never seen one. 

I guess sometimes we have to return to our starting  point to find what we're looking for.  Whether it's a black bear or a good relationship with your father, I hope you find what you're looking for this father's day.

Windows Live Writer

My friend Roger sent me the link to Windows Live Writer which is a free program that makes blogging a little easier and provides additional features.  If you would like to give it a try just click Here .  Thanks Roger !

Permobil Follows Up

On Thursday I was really disgusted with my permobil C-500 as I was stuck at my kitchen counter, but today I have a different perspective. I just got off the telephone with permobil and they are sending a representative from the factory early next week to fix my wheelchair... I find that pretty impressive.

My last wheelchair was a permobil Chairman and was very reliable, it had the same seating functions as I have now. Hopefully my new wheelchair will provide the same comfort, function and reliability once the needed repairs are made. One thing's for sure, I am impressed with the level of customer service I am receiving from permobil. I'm sure this joystick problem will finally be resolved once and for all.

Blackberries

I imagine in a week or so I will be able to pick a few bowls of fresh blackberries. This picture shows my blackberry plants, not to be confused with the previous red raspberry post. The blackberry plants are really loaded with fruit this year.

Worm Grunter

Back when I was fishing I thought worms were grown on farms, little did I know there was a guy in Florida doing this now don't you feel better about working in your cube today?

Rescue Mission Completed

OK, I am mobile again at least for now and the water has receded from washing over my brain. I called Chesapeake rehab and left a voicemail... I'm also emailing a friend of mine at Permobil, something has to be done about this Unreliability !

I do have a backup chair but it is six years old.... The whole point of getting a new wheelchair is reliability ! What's a quadriplegic to do ?

Red Raspberries

I can't believe my berries are doing so well already. The blackberries are loaded with berries and just beginning to turn red. Yesterday I was able to pick the first red raspberries (six) and they were delicious, so sweet! The red raspberries are my favorite and I cannot wait to enjoy several bowls very soon.

Raining in Pittsburgh

Today it's going to be an all day rain here in the burgh, that's fine with me... Not that I can do anything about it anyway. At least we will not have to water the garden for a few days.

I originally had a dentist appointment today for my six month cleaning. Fortunately I watched the weather forecast this week and was able to move my appointment and see the dentist yesterday in 80°of sunshine.

You see, when you're a quadriplegic and travel by wheelchair, Rain is your enemy. If I could not reschedule the dental appointment, I would have had to cancel it. Even though the dentist is only a few blocks away I'm not driving there in a downpour. This is just one aspect of having a disability, everything requires a lot more planning.

Word Prediction Word Q / Speak Q

If you remember a few weeks back I downloaded a 30 day trial of Word Q / Word Speak to evaluate. I have been using the software off and on and decided to purchase the full copy.

I switch back and forth between Microsoft voice and word Q. It’s very easy software to use and train, much simpler to use then dragon naturally speaking. Although the purchase price of word q/speak is more expensive than dragon.

If you’re still running windows XP and looking for a voice to text software program, I would check out Word Q / Word Speak, it’s probably worth your time.

Cops: Quadriplegic Former District Attorney Played 'Pimp' - ABC News

Cops: Quadriplegic Former District Attorney Played 'Pimp' - ABC News I don't think OVR would consider this a successful career placement. However, he was working from home, employing several other individuals and let's face it, this job was more reputable than his last position as an Atty. (sorry Ruth, just joking).

Thanks Readers

I know I have been talking about hockey non stop the last few weeks. I wanted to say thanks to all you non hockey readers for sticking with my blog. I promise to talk about other issues over the next few months ! Have a great day.

Penguins Victory Parade

Breaking sports news video. MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL highlights and more.

Today at noon the penguins will be celebrating their Stanley cup victory with a parade in downtown Pittsburgh. The city is expecting a huge crowd of fans (250,000), who are eager to see the Stanley cup in person and congratulate the best team in hockey.

I will be watching the parade on television click for video. It's going to be a beautiful day today, 79° and sunny and more importantly, a great day for hockey. The Stanley cup has returned to Pittsburgh after being absent for 17 years, hopefully the cup visits Pittsburgh many more times in my lifetime.

Mario Lemieux To Be Knighted

Mario Lemieux is scheduled to be Knighted on June 17 by The National Order Of Quebec. It seems a little redundant, the city of Pittsburgh Knighted Lemieux in 1992 after he won the second Stanley Cup....

Max Talbot List

I was over at my friend's blog Penguinsfan87 and she pointed out Max Talbot's to do list for last night's game. I thought I would share it with you.

The Stanley Cup Is Back In Pittsburgh

Last nite me and a few friends were gathered in my living room to watch history unfold. The Pittsburgh penguins overcame a season of adversity and defeated the defending Stanley cup champions, the Detroit red wings 2 to 1 .

The penguins forced game seven in Detroit and all the oddsmakers were betting against the black and gold, but these young hockey players never gave up on themselves.

Even when Crosby was forced to leave the second period with a knee injury. He returned for one shift but was unable to continue. The penguins captain would be forced to watch game seven of the Stanley cup finals from the bench.

The best team in hockey pulled together and found a way to win one more game! Today the Pittsburgh penguins are the Stanley cup champions ! I could not be happier, I'm already looking forward to the victory parade. Is it too early to start chanting let's go pens for the 2010 season?

Joke

Thanks Wally !
PHONE REPAIR

Lawrence, Kansas, December 12, 2008
A Kansas farm wife called the local phone company to report her telephone failed to ring when her friends called - and that on the few occasions, when it did ring, her dog always moaned right before the phone rang.

The telephone repairman proceeded to the scene, curious to see this psychic dog or senile lady. He climbed a telephone pole, hooked in his test set, and dialed the subscriber's house.

The phone didn't ring right away, but then the dog moaned and the telephone began to ring.

Climbing down from the pole, the telephone repairman found:

1 . The dog was tied to the telephone system's ground wire with a steel chain and collar.

2. The wire connection to the ground rod was loose.

3. The dog was receiving 90 volts of signaling current when the number was called.

4. After a couple of jolts, the dog would start moaning and then urinate.

5. The wet ground would complete the circuit, thus causing the phone to ring.

Which demonstrates that some problems CAN be fixed by pissing and moaning.
Thought you'd like to know.

Stanley Cup Game Seven

Kathi sent me this cartoon and I think it is very appropriate for today's blog. Tonight the Pittsburgh Penguins play the Detroit red wings in game seven of the Stanley cup finals. Detroit may have home ice advantage, but I've been saying all year don't count the Penguins out.

It's incredible that these two teams made it to the Stanley cup finals two years in a row. They really are the best two teams in hockey, and it comes down to tonight's game to decide the championship.

The penguins were not expected to make the playoffs, but so far they have given the defending Stanley cup champions all they can handle. I'm hoping the Penguins have just one more win in them, 60 minutes on ice that will define many careers.

Alleged Holocaust Museum Shooter Hated Jews, Ex-Wife Says - ABC News

Alleged Holocaust Museum Shooter Hated Jews, Ex-Wife Says - ABC News

Another senseless tragedy committed by an ignorant hate monger. It’s disgusting that these individuals are allowed to live among us. We enjoy many freedoms in the United States of America and I would not change that. That being said, I wish the gov’t would take a closer look at these hate groups. There has to be something we can do as a society to stop this disease of racism, hate and prejudice.

I cannot believe individuals are denying the holocaust. But there are many things I cannot believe in this world. I refuse to let racism and prejudices win today, I choose to be a better person.

Upside Down Tomato

Here is a picture as promised of my upside down tomato. Petunia's were planted in the top of the bucket, but did not bloom yet. By planting flowers in the top I can easily see when to water the bucket. It does not look like much now, but I will post another picture when it's full of tomatoes.

It's a Cinderella Story

In February of this year there was talk that the Pittsburgh Penguins would not make the playoffs. The organization made a coaching change giving Dan Bylsma his first opportunity to coach in the NHL, making the move to the big show from the baby penguins.

This season was not easy, the penguins worked for every win, every opportunity that they received. Last night they found a way to win one more game, defeating the Detroit red wings at home 2 to 1. Forcing game seven of the Stanley cup finals to be played Friday in Detroit.

The home ice advantage has certainly played out in this series, but I would not bet against the penguins for anything this year. It's all come down to one last hockey game to decide Lord Stanley's Cup. It's a Cinderella story.... Let's Go Penguins !

Elvis has arrived

A group of Elvis impersonators made an appearance yesterday in Pittsburgh. It seems a little crazy, but who am I to judge. There were both male and female Elvi (is that correct ? )... Downtown yesterday. Hopefully they are in town for the penguin game tonight at Mellon arena. I'm waiting to hear " Elvis has just left the building and the penguins have forced game seven of the Stanley cup finals".

Gardening Weekend

The weather in Pittsburgh yesterday was perfect to complete a little backyard gardening. Beth put in some basil, a cucumber and several pepper plants. I really enjoy gardening, watching things grow and harvesting delicious all natural food.

This year I'm also trying an upside down tomato plant. It's kind of a novelty, growing a tomato in a 5 gallon bucket, and hanging it upside down. I had a bucket and a drill so it was easy. The only issue I see is remembering to water the plant every other day and adding some miracle grow once a week.

I also put in two hummingbird feeders this year. Hopefully I will be able to post some pictures very soon. It's not exactly 40 acres of garden, more like several plants, herbs, berries and hanging baskets, but it makes me happy.

One Particular Harbour - Jimmy Buffett

I always think of Onset Mass. when I hear this song. A great little harbor where I like to visit, drink a few boat drinks, eat way to many steamers and tell stories. If your ever by Buzzards Bay check it out.

Game Five Was A Disaster

All I'm going to say about the game last night was the penguins played terrible and were shut out 5 to 0 in Detroit. We have a chance to tie the series back up Tuesday night here in Pittsburgh.

The best part of the evening was friends came over and surprised me with some delicious microbrews. I thought the best beer was called Sea Dog Blue Paw Wheat Ale, a wild blueberry beer from Maine. Coming in a close second was a Kalima Hard Cream, that tasted just like a dream sickle.

So even though the penguins were shut out, I had a great evening sampling beers with some really good friends. Hopefully Tuesday night produces a different result in penguins hockey.

June 6, 1944 D-Day

65 years ago American and British troops landed on the beaches of Normandy. The Allied troops had 215,000 casualties.... 215,000 in the Normandy campaign.

In 1986 I had the opportunity to visit Normandy and tour the invasion beaches, memorials and museums. Being there was an experience I will never forget. There are very few world war two veterans still alive to participate in todays memorial services. Hopefully the world will remember the cost of freedom long after these heroes leave this world.

Joystick Delivered

Yesterday afternoon Chesapeake rehab delivered and installed my replacement joystick for my permobil C 500. They also installed a new front tire, which the technician spotted as being low on his initial service call.

So I'm back in my new wheelchair today, sitting better, with less stress on my body and using the custom desktop. My posture is so much better in the C 500 which means I breathe better and feel better at the end of the day.... I spent all day in my old chair yesterday and I noticed a big difference with fatigue and muscle pain.

The technician for Chesapeake was very professional and did a great job replacing the parts. The only negative of the day was they could not give me an approximate time for the repairs. It was a lot like the cable guy, we will be there sometime between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.... Actual arrival time 3:30 PM.

Game Four Of The Stanley Cup Finals

Last night I had some friends over to watch game four of the Stanley cup, it was a fantastic night to be a Pittsburgh Penguin fan. The Pens tied the series 2 games apiece, by defeating Detroit 4 to 2 !

Jordan Staal had a shorthanded goal which the penguins desperately needed in this series. They are playing as a team, and in my opinion cannot be stopped. The next game is Saturday in Detroit, I'm really hoping for another big win for the black and gold.

It's always fun to watch hockey with good friends here at home. This series is not over by any means, but the penguins are in charge of their own destiny now that they tide the series. We need two more wins to lift 35lbs of silver. The greatest Trophy in professional sports.

Joke

Two women friends had gone on a short trip together.
Both were very faithful and loving wives, however they had gotten over-enthusiastic on the Bacardi Breezers.

Incredibly drunk and going home they needed to Pee, so they stopped in the cemetery.

One of them had nothing to wipe with so she thought she would take off her panties and use them.

Her friend however was wearing a rather expensive pair of panties and did not want to ruin them.

She was lucky enough to squat down next to a grave that had a wreath with a ribbon on it, so she proceeded to wipe with that.

After the girls did their business they proceeded to go home.

The next day one of the woman's husband was concerned that his normally sweet and innocent wife, who was still in bed hung over, so he phoned the other husband and said: 'These girl trips have got to stop! I'm starting to suspect the worst. My wife came home with no panties!!'

'That's nothing' said the other husband, 'Mine came back with a card stuck to her ass that said.....

'From all of us at the Fire Station.
We'll never forget you.''

New Joystick

I am so happy to announce that my new joystick will be delivered and installed sometime today from Chesapeake rehab. Hopefully today is the last day I have to use my old chair. And I will not have to fear becoming a giant paperweight somewhere in my house or on the streets due to a software problem, while I'm in my C 500.

Having the right equipment is so essential to my independence, if something is even an inch out of place it may make it unusable. I really appreciate all the kind words and thoughts from all of you over the last month, listening to me complain and offering me encouragement.

It's not always about the wheelchair, but let's face it, without it my quality of life certainly takes a nose dive south. I hope each of you have a great day, don't forget it's a hockey night in Pittsburgh! Wear you're black and gold and cheer the penguins to another victory in the Stanley cup!

Stanley Cup Final Game Three

Yesterday I had an incredible time witnessing my first Stanley cup game live at Mellon arena. The most important news is the Penguins defeated the red wings 4 to 2, the red wings still lead the series 2 to 1 but the Penguins are still in it baby. Pictures of this adventure are below.

Beth was able to take some time off work yesterday, so that we could get to the arena early and make sure we had accessible parking and enjoy some tailgating. It was a sellout crowd plus 5000 people watching on the big screen TV outside Mellon arena, or as I like to say Mario's basement TV....

We had subway sandwiches at the van, then walked around enjoying the crowd and the great weather. The radio station 105.9 was broadcasting live as I rolled by and the DJ tossed me a free T shirt, free swag is always good...

At the penguins store I bought a Stanley Cup Pin, and game three official Puck. We watched the players drive in and the crowd went crazy as each one walked into the arena. Malkin drives a white convertible Porsche that is amazing, it pays to be a winner.

After getting the tickets at Will Call, we went over to the official Penguins tailgate party. Here they had The Prince Of Wales eastern conference trophy on display. I grabbed a beverage and watched the crowd then headed into the greatest show on earth.

Our seats were 31 C, one and two. Directly to the right of Marc Andre Fleury, he defended this goal twice. Here is the best news about the seats, I sat next to Kevin Stevens two time Stanley cup winner and legendary left wingger.

He had to be the most gracious ex athlete ever. He probably shook hands with 30 people, signed autographs, and smiled for pictures in between periods. During the third period when it was tide 2 to 2, I said " there's a little more than 12 minutes left, there's still time for you to suit up, we need a goal." He said " I would love to more than you know".... How cool is that?

When the penguins finally pulled ahead for good, the arena erupted! I have to say it was incredible to be there... There is nothing like seeing the Stanley cup live with your team coming away with a much needed victory! I can't wait until Thursday, although watching them on TV is definitely not the same. Go Pens !

Stanley Cup Pictures

Stanley Cup Pictures 2

Stanley cup Tickets

I just got off the telephone with Kathy from the Pittsburgh penguins and guess who is going to the Stanley cup game tomorrow night? That's right sports fans, I have Stanley cup tickets!

Stay tuned for Wednesday's blog, it will contain photos and my many witticisms and observations from my first Stanley cup game. What should I wear, Lemieux, Crosby or Malkin Jersey ? Let's Go Penguins, we really need a big win at home.

wolfram Alpha

I can finally complete basic algebra, trigonometry, find the distance to the Moon or any other question just by asking this website. WolframAlpha I think I've just found my new best friend, I wonder if it will help with final jeopardy?

It's an amazing tool, computers continue to amaze me every day. Go give it a try and let me know what you think of this new answer machine.