Comments Posted By John McCrarey
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Kev, yep, FRA=Fleet Reserve Association. I should have spelled it out, but it is a Navy-centric veterans organization similar to the VFW (support for vets and community service charity projects).
Glad you liked the “Marching along” photo. I didn’t take that one, but it does capture the flatland beauty of the area.
Re: the ice. Our regular supplier in Barretto brings the ice in that large block form, but when we do outstations, we take what we can get from the local providers. Putting the smaller ice blocks together on top of the beer containers did create the same effect, though.
There really is no way to tell which trail folks chose to take other than the after-hike feedback. You always have the “hardcore” group, but I’d estimate that 50% or more did the long trail on Monday. The group knew in advance it was going to be flat, and since old fuckers like Scott and I were involved, they knew the trail wasn’t going to be overly difficult. I was actually surprised at some of the long-trail adventurers, including Angie (a newbie). I was worried when she was so late in returning, thinking she might have gotten lost, but she just chose to take the long way. Good for her!
» Posted By John McCrarey On 10/May/2023 @ 6:53 am
Brian, it really seems to come down to a vibe, but defining a vibe is difficult–it just seems to happen. And vibes come and go–I was in IDM last night, and it is just not at all like it used to feel.
I’m pretty sure I would suck at running a bar; I just don’t have that outgoing, friendly personality that makes folks feel welcome. But the ambiance thing is just as important. IF I were to attempt a bar, it would be on the beach with water views to enjoy whilst imbibing. The music would be crowd appropriate (a classic rock/country mix works for me) and played at a volume that still allows having a conversation with the person next to you. And music videos on large-screen TVs would accompany the songs. I’d hire attractive waitresses and GROs that were welcome to drink with customers, but I would not impose drink quotas or other measures that encourage engaging in the “buy me drink” pressure game. I would not allow barfines, but the girls would be free to do whatever they want outside duty hours. I’d also have a limited pub fare menu…just a few items done well. Don’t want customers having to leave when they get hungry.
Is that enough to be successful? Maybe, maybe not. It still comes down to that vibe thing I mentioned. And that depends on the customers you attract. A welcoming crowd of friendly regulars having a good time the goal, making it happen might depend on luck.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 10/May/2023 @ 6:35 am
Yeah, by their nature, puns require taking some liberties with common sense and the rules. They don’t always work, though, and then the joke is on you.
I *think* you told me that “different than” rule before. However, your example was different from the last one. Perhaps I’ll remember this time.
Yes, I’ve had my share of bad luck with phones, although I can’t really blame Samsung because the phones can’t withstand the abuse I put them through. Yes, they have the “S” series here. The S-23 was even more expensive than the one I bought. I honestly don’t know the difference between the “A” and “S” models, but read that the A-53 (which is now the A-54) has the best camera. We shall see about that!
» Posted By John McCrarey On 08/May/2023 @ 6:25 am
I have surrendered in the war against carbohydrates, and I am now a prisoner unable to resist the carby poisons I am subjected to on a daily basis. All I can do now is serve as a bad example.
Well, if they built condos up there, I am quite certain some enterprising businessperson would open a bar/restaurant next door. Or better yet, on the rooftop. And as long as there was road access, I could have my driver take me to and from Barretto, where the urge for naughtiness could be satiated.
I actually believe there were plans for development on the ridgeline at one time. “The Great Wall” was the foundation for something that was never completed. It’s a shame. On the other hand, the development would make the hiking less desirable, so I guess I ought to count my blessings.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 07/May/2023 @ 7:04 am
You know, at this stage of my deterioration, it would just be easier if Nabisco would change the damn name of those cookies once and for all!
True, Gracyn has grown-up the American way. A star athlete in multiple sports, horseback riding shows, and a middle-class suburban lifestyle. Mary’s life has been hard by comparison, but she seems to be finding her way. Wishing the best for both of them.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 06/May/2023 @ 6:20 am
Yeah, I think it is bamboo. They use it for everything here.
Your eyes are better than mine…I never saw a planet live or in the photograph.
No follow-up with the docs yet; I need to get that ultrasound done first. I also found a place that does blood work and other medical tests–I’m going to do one of their packages and see what else is going on inside this old body. The knee symptoms seem to have receded, don’t know if that means I’ve healed naturally or if the intermittency has just been extended for a lengthy period of time. Either way here’s hoping it lasts!
» Posted By John McCrarey On 05/May/2023 @ 7:12 am
The good, the bad, and the ugly
Kev, yeah, it is scary to think Mary is such a talented player at such a young age, especially since she has never had the chance to hone those skills as a bargirl. I’m not sure if it is “predilection” or some magnetic force that attracts these girls to me. Either way, I’m cursed, it seems.
Just to be clear, though, I’m no longer entertaining any thoughts that I’ll find “the one” in a bar. My bad night on the town was because these gals who are paid to pretend to enjoy my company were treating me like shit. Crap, when even the bargirls don’t like you, you’ve hit the ultimate low.
Jenn didn’t respond to my tirade when I delivered it, just sat there with a surprised look on her face. She did send me this message yesterday: “Hello, I’m really sorry about last night…I just thought you don’t like to talk and be close to me, so I just go…ok, you always take care of yourself.” So, I guess it’s possible there was a misunderstanding, and I overreacted. Anyway, I’m over it. When you start thinking a bargirl shares any of what you are feeling towards her, you are on the road to trouble.
Yes, you are spot-on about the lack of substance in my life. I also agree that has been my choice and that it is possible to be content without substance, as long as you accept that life for what it is. I think I’m still on the fence. Anyway, I do think about traveling and have some destinations in mind; I just need to get off my lazy ass and make it happen. In the meantime, Netflix is the new addition to my meaningless pursuits, and it is something I’m enjoying for a change of pace. Yep, 6 seasons of Lucifer, and I’m on the last episode of season two now.
Filling in the hours, however comfortably and well. That seems to be the life I’ve chosen for old age.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 04/May/2023 @ 7:18 am
Brian, we do get a lot of tourists here, but in the bars I patronize, I’d say the clientele is 75% expats. But yeah, the two-week millionaires and newbie tourists are easy marks, and most will have to learn the hard way (like I did). That’s why when they treat me like I’m a fool, I get so incensed.
You are generous to call them oblivious; I think some of them just don’t care. Once they reveal their true nature to me, I cut them off and send them in search of the next sucker. Ultimately, it is up to the customer to decide when it stops being fun.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 04/May/2023 @ 6:47 am
Rascal, Yeah, the Vette is super cool. I’m on the last episode of Season 2 now and still really enjoying the show a lot. Hope you are feeling better soon.
Yeah, I know the gal you are talking about. She’s in a relationship now with a good guy who treats her right, and I’m happy for them both. I tried to make a play for her sister, but she just calls me daddy and ignores my overtures. Oh, well.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 04/May/2023 @ 6:38 am
DS, yes, and the hard part is ferreting out the legitimate ones. I’m trying not to become completely cynical, but more and more, I’m growing weary of the seemingly constant expectations of near strangers that I will save them from the crisis of the moment.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 04/May/2023 @ 6:33 am
Brian, most of the “transgressions” are bullshit charges brought by another Hasher. My “offense” last week was being one of several who was wearing an orange shirt–I really can’t remember what the reasoning behind why that warranted time on the ice was. Not that it matters; you can make up just about anything to ice someone.
Honestly, the fraternity-like shenanigans of the circle are my least favorite part of the Hash. I come for the hike. And the beer.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 04/May/2023 @ 6:53 am
I’m not sure if Fireman was named in the Subic Hash or somewhere else; it was long before my time. But I did hear about the time he was burning brush and started a fire that spread throughout the neighborhood and required the fire department to bring it under control…so maybe that’s the origin of the name.
Thank you, now I know a phase in French I could actually put to use!
The knee felt gimpy throughout the hike. When I came to the one climb near the end of the turkey trail, I opted out and stuck to the street. Better safe than sorry!
» Posted By John McCrarey On 03/May/2023 @ 7:25 am
Well, the onions were optional, but that’s the way I roll.
I survived the Hash, but I remain concerned about the knee. More on that in today’s post.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 02/May/2023 @ 5:26 am
HaHa! Yes, I did! I had never done a take-out banana split and wasn’t even sure it was possible, but it all worked out!
» Posted By John McCrarey On 02/May/2023 @ 5:24 am
Alright, I didn’t use my toolbox, but if I were writing that sign, I’d do it like this: “Shit doesn’t just happen–it’s caused by assholes.” Using a semi-colon instead of the dash works, too.
Yes, you can swim to the floating bar if that’s your thing. Quite a few folks swim during their visit as well, like those “floaters” I photographed.
I’m impressed with your name punnage–I’m glad you appreciate the widely disparaged low-brow humor of the pun. And indeed, Bob was the kind of man who would have laughed at that joke.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 01/May/2023 @ 7:37 am
Thanks for the tips and insights, Jerry. Between you and Kevin, I’ll be well-armed with info and questions when I do a follow-up visit with my docs.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 01/May/2023 @ 7:42 am
Damn, I haven’t seen a Chunky in forever. It used to be one of my favorites, although as a kid, I could rarely afford one-it was one of those top-shelf candy bars. I had to settle for cheaper sweets like a Payday.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 01/May/2023 @ 7:41 am
Wow, I’d never heard of a Whatchamacallit candy bar before. Sweet name!
That breakfast was more than I could finish (well, a piece of egg and a bite of pancake were left). Those pancakes were thick and filling.
Yeah, what you say regarding my knee makes sense to me. I’m planning to do the ultrasound on Tuesday morning and see if that confirms this is a nerve issue and what to do about it. Thanks to your efforts, I’ve got a bunch of videos to watch for more ideas.
I guess the recent deaths of Bob and Alan have exacerbated those feelings of “time is running out.” But yeah, that is true for everyone alive, so you just have to put a positive spin on it and be motivated to live each day to the fullest. It could just be that I’m in some kind of emotional transformation that has left me a little out of sorts or something. Or maybe it just goes with old age. Anyway, I’m doing my best to keep a positive outlook.
Thanks again for your insights.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 30/April/2023 @ 7:07 am
Wow! Thanks for the video links. Just scrolling through, and I’ve got a dozen or so queued up to watch. I appreciate you sharing this info.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 30/April/2023 @ 6:45 am
Nope, Shamboli’s is the opposite of shambolic; most folks around here say it is the best pizza in town. I confess I needed to review the definition in the link you provided to understand the meaning. Which makes the Three Amigos plethora joke even more apropos.
As to the stairs in your building, I would accept the challenge except, um, ah, my knee! That’s it; my knee is bad, otherwise I’d be all over it! How many steps is that anyway?
» Posted By John McCrarey On 29/April/2023 @ 7:04 am
Damn it, you weren’t supposed to notice the red squiggle. What happened is I forgot to turn off the tracker for over an hour after I got back home. When it is on, and you are not moving, it makes it freak out like that.
Yeah, that is some kind of sauce for the lumpia. The chicken came with containers of gravy.
What more could I ask for? Don’t get me started! But yeah, I am to walk and buy food, and those are blessings that many can’t manage, so I’ve been blessed.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 28/April/2023 @ 6:41 am
Hey, Thirsty; nice to hear from you again. Hope all is well with you and the family.
Yeah, the nerves in the back are the primary suspect and I’m supposed to go to the local hospital for a scan to confirm that. It just seems odd that something like that would be intermittent, but what do I know?
I hope they were able to resolve your Sciatica issues successfully. Thanks for reading!
» Posted By John McCrarey On 29/April/2023 @ 7:12 am
Brain, yes, sadly, that is the guess with many expats here as well. Living on tight budgets week-to-week and leaving nothing behind for their partner to carry on with when they depart this world. I understand that Alan and Christine were together for an amazing 17 years, and I hope he made arrangements to provide for her now that he is gone.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 28/April/2023 @ 6:45 am
Yeah, the intermittency is what is strange, no idea why it comes and goes.
That is Christine beside Alan.
The conveyor belt scenario might explain that voice I keep hearing shouting “Next!”
» Posted By John McCrarey On 27/April/2023 @ 5:42 am
We do start our group hikes at 0900 on Wednesday and Friday, and that is a better time of day for being out and about. There are no drinking rituals after those hikes, so the morning start isn’t a drawback in that regard.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 28/April/2023 @ 6:47 am
Actually, when I first started the Hash began at 3:30 in the afternoon. Being slow, that caused me some issues like still being on top of a mountain when the sun was going down. We changed the starting time during the scamdemic to 1:00 which was too early for some. Our current 2:00 p.m. was voted on as a compromise. Anyway, I prefer the earlier start despite it being the hotter time of day. The rule is no free beer until 3:30, which is still a tad early I suppose but welcome after a hard hike.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 27/April/2023 @ 5:49 am
Glad you liked it, Jerry. Yep, downs can be treacherous, especially when they are covered in leaves and slippery. I always take it slow and use my walking stick as a break.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 26/April/2023 @ 6:42 am
Yeah, I noticed that Angie’s behind wasn’t nearly as appealing in those hiking pants as it appears when she is wearing a tight dress at work. I’ll reserve judgment until I see it in the flesh.
I personally don’t drop my drawers when I’m on the ice, but a lot of guys do. I’ve mastered quickly looking away, but that damn picture caught me by surprise. Yuck!
I’ll post an update on the knee later today, but no definitive diagnosis. The docs suspect it is a nerve issue and suggested an ultrasound to confirm. The intermittent symptoms might also be a sign that my tired old body is reacting to the daily stress I put on it every day.
Viewed two more episodes of Lucifer yesterday; still enjoying it so far. I was curious if you had ever watched it but I didn’t recall a review.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 26/April/2023 @ 6:40 am
Well, sometimes I get the photo when she is unaware I’m taking it. I don’t think she is posing, but she might emphasize her reactions occasionally.
Regarding the peas/carrots/corn, I’ve never really paid attention if that’s a popular combination everywhere or unique to Jewel. The owner of Jewel is a foreigner (European), so maybe that’s his thing.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 25/April/2023 @ 6:25 am
«« Back To Stats PageI like it! I actually thought the My Bitch would be a good location, not that I’m going to care one way or the other. They’d have to use my Hash name, though. Still, the Cum Together trail has a nice ring to it…
» Posted By John McCrarey On 24/April/2023 @ 9:31 am