Antidepressants, Drugs = Violent USA

SSRI’s …Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors… Molecular chains, ‘Designed’ (Designer Drugs), Created in Laboratories, are NOT Natural. They are now rampant in prescription and use, across overwhelmingly the entire USA (now the most Drug addicted nation in History), as well as to a miniscule percentage, the rest of the world, both legally and illegally, prescribed or used as an ‘Enhancer’ of the brain’s natural functions.  A Unipolar person can easily  become Bipolar. Bipolar individuals are at a drastically increased risk of an imbalance/blunting of Emotions. US society now has a 'Diagnosed' (countless are NOT diagnosed) Bipolar rate of over 4% roaming among the law abiding 'normal' citizens at any given time. Note the recent Atrocities to observe the predictable effects.

Correctly administering a chemically altered ‘balance’ and closely monitoring it, are nearly impossible due to the individual patient’s erratic behavioral self control. The same ‘self control’, that is being adjusted by the Psychiatric attempt at altering the thought processes of the ‘at risk’ person. Circular Logic comes into play, Nay, it Overrides all Logic.

SSRI’s are so thorough in their incessant penetration of the brain’s receptors, they drastically alter/disrupt the body’s ‘own’ natural production of Serotonin. The list of brand names is lengthy and changing as ongoing compounding continues. Hundreds of Lawsuits are quietly settled ‘after’ an ‘incident’, which indicates a very serious problem, not encouraged to be presented to the public. The unimaginable Power of the pharmaceutical industry and it's myriad of distribution levels, is reason to fear their profit motivated onslaught.

Prozac is well known. Prestiq, Effezor, Luvox, Halcion, Strattera, Lariam, Paxil, Chanix, Lexapro, Welbutrin Celaxa, Zoloft, Anafranil, Seroxat, Cymbalta, Fanapt (Reportedly the Drug being taken by Lanza, the young, under 25, Connecticut shooter).

Under 25, considered ‘Children’ in studys, is the most vulnerable age group for drastically  increased irrational, unpredictable behavior….. Amphetamine fall into the same category and are sought during increasingly violent, Pharmacy ‘invasions’ by desperate Addicts, Druggies, Career Repeat Offenders, now ‘encouraged’ by the US court system, to roam as ‘chemically enhanced’, uninhibited Predators on society.
Clinically administered at tax Payers expense, Methadone, only increases the potential for violence.

School statistics of over 60 incidents of recorded Violence offer proof. http://ssristories.com/index.php?sort=date&p=school
Opednews.com Joe Giambrone offers his assessment to the growing list of people becoming aware of the massive Drug problem now sweeping the United States of America. When Liberals finally recognize a growing problem, it is really immense.

Antidepressant use in 18 to 44 year old individuals across the USA, have Soared… by 400% since 1988 (reported by US Center for Disease Control). Ely Lilly (among others) studies resulted in ‘Black Box Warnings’ placed on All Antidepressants. The brain’s Receptors are chemically altered. Reported are feelings of Restlessness and an ominous sense of… “I MUST Do Something”… Anything !

A feeling of Detachment from reality, a total lack of Emotion, Fear is greatly diminished, Common sense is easily lost or disregarded. Hostility against others is common, with unprecedented violence often the result. Remorse is totally absent ‘After’ any Violent ‘accomplishment’ of hostility towards humanity/society.

Empathy towards the suffering of others, is replaced with a blank brain response of Denial. Self Worth is radically enhanced or rapidly diminished during many periods. Mood Swings, the Drugged personality has no cognizant fear of losing their own life. On the contrary, Suicide is ‘expected’ to follow their morbidly planned ‘accomplishment’ of ‘Doing Something’. Suicidal thoughts/actions rise with the use of Antidepressants. Note the recent revelation of the US Military now losing More soldiers to Suicide than combat. US troops of today are offered Depressants far more times than not. When they do predictably commit 'atrocities' while under prescribed drugs, the blame is placed on the soldier.

The latest stats for SSRI’s are disturbing to say the least. The ‘Stats’ are naturally altered to protect the Pharmaceutical Companies that prosper immensely by advertising, accelerating their disbursement around the entire world. New England Journal of Medicine noted in it’s own publication. “Bias designed to increase greater distribution by Positive’s, and downplay Negative reports, is rampant among the Pharmaceuticals”.

 ‘Risk to Benefit’ ratios are greatly exaggerated. Published (pharmaceutic-ally funded, 'biased' ghost written) reports attribute a 94% positive, when in reality only a 51% overall positive exists.. Neuroscience professional Eliot Valanenstein, “Evidence Not supported” as to effectiveness of Antidepressants. Critic David Healy is added to the rapidly growing list of detractors.

Internationally Acclaimed Critic, Dr David Healy Psychiatrist.. Ireland   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Healy_%28psychiatrist%29  is  added to the rapidly growing list of detractors.
Major pharmaceuticals overwhelmingly Fund mental health institutions, thereby rendering Any negative reports as ‘not acceptable’…to their highly profitable International business structure. Dr Healy testified in ‘Tobin vs Smith Kline’ 2001 (1998 family killing rampage) resulting in 6.4 million payout by Smith Kline… while accepting no blame.

Natural Genetics play a strong role and not all children/adults are affected in the same way. Prenatal use of Antidepressants is an ongoing study, being done by the immensely  biased Drug companies themselves.

Behavioral Problems and long term difficulties, such as Autism in addition to the extensive list of problems also being reported by Physicians. To have chemically ‘enhanced’ emotional ‘Highs’, irrationally laughing at serious circumstances/subjects (such as exhibited by the US Vice President during the 2012 ‘Debates’?).

 Having no concerns (emotional 'Blunting') of Others being discomforted, or them to feel uneasy with hostile, antagonistic advances. A feeling of being invincible, ‘bullet proof’ is common, as exhibited during the well known, drug driven ‘Hollywood Bank Robbery’ (video on you tube). Dilated pupils (note famous police photo of Aurora Theater shooter), as with other mind altering Drugs, is only one outward indication.

Dr Peter R. Breggin, the very respected physician that was given the task to research the huge amount of collected data on the use and near exhaustive clinical trials of Antidepressants, reported his findings before Congress. http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=SBJfZtB_3cc#t=0s  His reports primarily cover the US Military, members of which are given the drugs, to fight depression in soldiers, while not reporting the severe Risks to the soldier or his family.

The exact opposite is the end result. It actually ‘enhances’ their capacity for ‘Mania’ associated with increased propensity for Violence. Note the recent Violent ‘Atrocities’ committed by highly stressed Military personnel ..on prescribed ‘Drugs’. The agenda driven US govt reacts by punishing the soldier, to whom  they themselves Administered the Drugs.

Schools (predictable Victims, located in irresponsibly mandated ‘Gun Free Zones’) alone, but not restricted to, have reported huge Violence increases, as listed on this site with randomly collected data…  http://ssristories.com/index.php?sort=date&p=school    …… It is reported that ‘Lanza’ the latest school shooter (in the most At Risk age group, of less than 25 years of age) was on Prescription Meds…. ‘FANAPT’. The media is Not prone to release data that goes against agenda driven ‘news’ and their overpowering Politics.

Children on Antidepressants are 80-130% HIGHER Risk of suicide, Agitation, Hostility or mania leading to Violence, ‘After’ being prescribed antidepressants. Alcohol, Meth, Sudafed, Ectasy, cough suppressants and some herbals such as St John’s Wort, can increase the toxicity of designer Antidepressants.

In the NM Alb Journal of Jan 3 2013, Leslie Linthicum reported, we have a Dr. Pawan Kumar Jain in Las Cruces NM with 3,233 patients. He has distributed 3,028,939 doses of pain meds (primarily Oxycodone). At least 21 deaths have occurred of his limited patient list, many of them Suicides.

The entire staff of UNMH has over 23,000 patients and has distributed a half million 'fewer' doses. Dr. Jain has now lost his NM license to practice, but 'not to worry' he has 49 Other states in which to open a  medical practice. Dr. Jain is educated in India. In the current US medical system, that is now quite common.

Oxycodone with numerous side effects such as Euphoria, was developed in 1916 Germany as a less addictive alternative to Morphine and Heroin. It is derived from Codeine. It has been reformulated to make it harder to crush, to release the Opiate faster. Label warning says, 'Do Not Crush or release will increase'. Isn't that nice? Of course the now perpetually Drug Addicted USA consumes the lion's share, with 82% of the TOTAL of the entire world's production. Canada and Australia with rampant Socialism equal to the USA, follow closely in percentage per capita.

As a newly intensified Socialist nation we have added to the equation, the new phenomena of 'Students' on govt subsidy, having enough governmental 'slush' funding to obtain high priced weaponry to carry out 'Fantasy' attacks of revenge on whomever they deem 'the enemy' (Texas, Virginia, Arizona, Aurora Colo and recently Fla).

Knowing that we have an overwhelming number of people with mental problems, consuming Legal Antidepressants (1.5 million at last estimate) now encouraged to roam freely among law abiding society, while balancing their unstable emotions with Drug addiction. We can now add Illegal use with their proven propensity for Violence and unpredictability. This is NOT the time to Disarm the law abiding Citizens of the  USA. With absolutely No fear of instant reprisal, the parasitic/predatory class are easily encouraged to enact their Fantasies.

 The end results can be abject terror sweeping the overwhelmingly law abiding, rendered helpless society that succumbed to the misguided siren song of Utopian disarmament. To say nothing of the Historical consequences to predictably follow the weakening of the Bill of Rights, Second Amendment, as a Tyrannical Govt, that during this time of a 400% increase, is ITSELF quite likely on Antidepressants, being in Totalitarian Tyrannical Control?

Rural community Life During WWII

Posted on December 30, 2012

I remember that we mostly had mismatched cups, dishes and silverware when we were little kids. The ‘Sir David Beatty spoon’ was worth fighting over at meal times :>)
Not sure about grandma's set. I think it mostly matched. She really enjoyed her kitchen. Often had her ‘Ladies Aid’ over for ‘Hors d'oeuvres’. Small, strange tasting sandwiches, homemade bread with the crust shaved off (saved for later bread pudding). She set the table with her treasured linen and her finest dishes, then dressed up, as if for church. 

The well dressed ladies all discussed the needs of the community and how they would gather and distribute essentials to the needy and find employment for the bread winners of the Traditional families common in those days.. They were the community welfare, working with the local churches… before govt eventually took over, subsidizing the non-traditional ‘associations’ quite common today….

I remember Gram's early kitchen during WWII. The floor and cabinets were covered in linoleum with shiny little strips of edging. The ‘everyday’ table cloths were something called ‘Oilcloth’. After WWII and the end of rationing, when things got better, she got all new stainless steel topped cabinets and better flooring. The one hanging ceiling bulb was replaced with the latest ‘fluorescent’ lighting ring. The new, big box chest freezer on the porch after WWII rationing was over, replaced the town ‘Locker‘.

The countless frozen chickens she endlessly butchered, beef and pork were much handier. Closer to the well stocked, hand grown, picked and canned garden vegetables and preserved fruit in her basement. Whatever occurred, our family ‘compound’ would survive. Grandpa and Grandma had survived the ‘Great Depression’. For them, a World War was a walk in the park.

 The ICEMAN. Big man, sorta scary. Wearing a leather apron and carrying big blocks of ice over his shoulders with huge iron Tongs. He came in, rearranged the remaining pieces of ice. Returned with size needed, set the new block and replaced the smaller pieces around it. In hot summer we got a few fresh chunks from him to chew on. The Milkman was another periodic visitor (we raised a yearly Beef and Hogs, but not dairy cows). Milkman drove a strange looking delivery truck and left a couple of bottles in the icebox. We never locked the doors. Perfectly logical, because the iceman and milkman could not get in when we were away..

When WWII took all of the younger men, only the older or crippled up guys were left. 
 Harvest time was memorable. Pheasants loved the corn shocks for shelter against the winter blasts and food.

I roamed the exciting fields alone as an adventuresome 'little Buck'. I recall the Threshing crews with draft horses being used to pull the 'hay racks'. I got to scramble on board and ride to the barns. The big old iron spiked wheeled, tractor that in later years became a rusted derelict at Towner's pond (formerly on Prince Farm), was used to power the big grey Threshing machine during the WWII years. There were other old tractors, but gas was rationed, so the draft horses, Belgiums and Percherons did a lot of the real work.

The grey Threshing machine was moved from farm to farm, along with the 'mature' and kid crews. A long flat fabric belt, drove the pulleys that operated the countless gears and threshing devices, blowing 'chaff' into piles. The horses would walk and stop, when the older men using their forks, 'pitched' the hay or 'cut grain' up onto the high wheeled 'racks'. Hay and Grain was mowed by the draft teams pulling mechanical sickle bars. 

Nearby some smaller field farmers of the time, still used long antiquated hand scythes with 'bails' to lay the grain stems in orderly rows. They stepped along, swinging their scythe's in rhythmic fashion, all day long, stopping only when the distant community siren signaled 12 noon lunch.

At Kane's and Prince's farm, the racks full of hay and straw from threshing, were backed into position under the eve of the big barn. A long heavy rope with a large set of claw hooks, grabbed onto the hay, much of it 'baled', from the rack in one big bite. Draft horses pulled the long rope, lifting the hay to the open upper doors, where men forced it into the far reaches of the loft on a long metal trolley. The operation was repeated and continued for the days it took for harvest.,..

'Indian Summer', though somewhat rare,  periodically commenced after harvest. Today we are all trained to rush judgement noddingly, label it proof of Global Warming'. Some may remember that picture of the old man smoking his pipe, telling the little boy about seeing the hazy smoke and visions of the Indians. The famous picture and little story appeared every fall in the Chicago Tribune, 'Indian Summer' or not.  
http://www.tkinter.smig.net/Chicago/InjunSummer/index.htm  


We often walked the quarter mile across fields to Kane's dairy farm, carrying two milk pails. The warm milk came right from the cows, then was poured over a cold refrigerated coil into our pails. After it sat in our icebox for a day, the cream was scooped off for coffee and cooking. As a little kid, I always had a cup of fresh creamed coffee with Grams in her kitchen. Her fresh baked bread, rolls and donuts were never duplicated.
 
After WWII, the real refrigerators came to our houses. What a remarkable invention. The old wooden ice boxes went to the chicken house for storage of feed, Rats and Mice were always a problem around chickens because of their feed scattered about. Predatory Weasels and Foxes were a different problem.

 Rat Killin' was ongoing and exciting, some real fun. After dusk, Gramps and I approached the chicken house in silence, carrying Mom's .22. Gramps ripping open the door, I ran and grabbed 'em while they were squealing and Gramps shot em. Sometimes they were too fast, too big and biting at me.. I slammed them against the wall, then Gramps shot them. Ahh the good old days. :>)


After WWII, a new white electric ‘wringer’ washing machine in basement, came to replace the old pale green clamp on, hand crank ‘wringer’, that was a separate device. Before the electric wringer machine, mom and gram both used the big copper tub on the kerosene burners to boil the water and wash clothes on wash day (same two handled oval copper tub used for boiling and plucking hundreds of chickens).

The big 80 gal post WWII water heater was something special. It somehow was controlled to only provide electricity and heat water at night’s cheaper rates. Clothes were all hung outside to dry unless the rainy weather prevented it. Freeze dried clothes, though looking stiff, get just as dry.

The first flooring I recall in our kitchen and grandma’s, was something found at navy surplus. In rolls and glued down, it supposedly was left over from ships, as some of our original home construction material. Neighbor Larry’s floors were a cement board from surplus. Hard, cold and gray..

Our kitchen had a cast iron hand pump, like the one at an aunt’s little house I first recalled. Dad and grandpa put a little electric piston pump under the kitchen, when one finally became available. It pumped water from the concrete cistern that collected rain water from the house roof gutters. Both houses in our ‘compound’ had cisterns. The water was yellow and not much of it. Little pump often froze in cold winter. Had to go down into spider crawl space, with gas blowtorch, to thaw. Then hang an electric light bulb for freezing nights and days.

A weekly bath was taken in cold yellow water, with some added water boiled on the little kerosene stove on which mom cooked our meals. Before the porcelain iron tub and electric pump connected, the kitchen floor, wash tub was my ‘spa’.  The little kerosene stove had a round gallon can, that gurgled as the kerosene dripped into the burners. It also helped heat our home in cold weather. Our electric water heater in the hallway, after end of WWII, was a welcome addition, as was our first electric stove and fluorescent ceiling light. The hanging incandescent bulb was finally replaced. :>)

After WWII ended, uncle Harry came home from the war and married Betty to raise their family. Grandpa dug two pipelines from the new well in the communal yard, one for our house. I watched that well being drilled by a man with a pounding machine. It replaced an old hand dug, brick lined polluted well we could no longer use.

The drill rig eventually pounded the big drill pipe down about 100 feet. Lots of gray clay flooded out and down the driveway as it began pounding to break through the substrate. After pouring a concrete ‘well house’ below the ground and installing a new deep well piston pump, We finally  had clean, clear water we could actually drink. No more trips to the community well, filling big glass bottles in wooden crates. :>)

During WWII, grandma and grandpa had their coal furnace in their basement. It needed tightly rationed coal, shoveled directly into the firebox every few hours and 'clinkers' needed to be chipped loose and shoveled out with the cinders and ashes. The clinkers and cinders ‘paved’ our long driveway and provided traction in icy winter.
They then acquired a modern ‘Stoker’ to feed the coal. 

As a stronger kid, I often shoveled the new stoker full with coal from the big ‘bin’,  in a walled off section of the basement (I still have that same big coal shovel). They eventually got the fuel oil ‘gun type’ conversion installed in that same furnace. Oil that replaced the coal. No more shoveling. Grams and Gramps were aging  by then and had lost some shoveling agility.

For years, Jake the ‘Coal Man’ (he was blackened by the end of each hard day’s work) had backed up his truck and delivered the coal through the basement window by the birdbath in side yard flower garden. It had little red paper ‘hearts’ scattered throughout the black shiny coal chunks. I kinda liked the fresh smell of coal. Reminded me of my beloved steam locomotives that roared past in the night.
The coal furnace also heated some water in the winter, before the big electric water heater was installed after WWII. The furnace had a big bulging iron boiler ball suspended below the steel floor radiator grate. I spent many hours laying on that steel floor grate, after getting frozen and soaked during sledding.

‘Red Heart Coal’ was the best :>) Jake’s last name was ‘Flake’. Interesting name ‘Jake Flake’. He had daughters that turned out very pretty. His coal yard and home, was located near the EJ&E railroad tracks. The coal trains dumped the coal off the siding into his yard and he delivered it with his old truck.

Hockemier (Hokie) on highway 59A, had the local convenience store and Sinclair gas station. He delivered the ‘Fuel Oil’ of the sort we burned in the big brown ‘garbage burner’ that heated our house. Mom could finally afford to put in the ‘gun type’ furnace, located in the closet. That thing was sooty and really smoked. Later she had the floor furnace installed? If I recall, it was suspended under the house? Or she had a gas conversion put in the other box? Whatever type, it is always nice to actually get a natural gas line past the homestead. Homestead was ‘razed’ in recent years, but the memories remain strong.
Life sure changed didn’t it?.

Concealed Carry Weapon ‘Re-Certification’

Blogger (New) seems to be working again?
After the classroom massacre of defenseless children in Newton Conn, that will by knee jerk reaction, unleash an 'anti-gun' rage of new Laws, I confirmed my decision to remain ARMED, not Defenseless, as the US govt forces the public schools system to remain...for some irrational reasoning.
The deadly outcomes are predictable and repeated with regularity by the deranged, of which the world is awash today. Only the threat of instant retaliation deters attacks.

As the end of my own four year New Mexico State certification for ‘Concealed Carry Weapon’ approaches, I contemplated the process once again. Did I really desire to continue to carry a deadly weapon? Am I too old? Am I too slow? My Accuracy not what it once was? It is assuming a heavy liability and costly, so is it really worth the added expense and vastly increased financial risk in these depressed economic times? During a rehearsal at a yearly stage production for the ‘The Story’ at church, I met a friend known from the last year’s performances.

Ellis McMath ellismcmath@aol.com of ‘Better Together Mexico’ a Christian Ministry improving the lives of Christians living in Mexico, mentioned he was now teaching classes in New Mexico Concealed Carry. After convincing myself Not to certify again, something ‘blipped’ in my brain. ‘What IF’ I no longer carried and 'something' occurred that I could have prevented and would regret forever?

‘Suzanna Gracia-Hupp’ tells it best on You tube, in her personal story before Congress, of losing her father among the Luby’s Texas massacre victims. Tuesday evenings for two hours, the ongoing series of classes are in session. I attended the first one on 20 Nov 2012. Because I am only Re-certifying, I only require 4 hours, instead of the full day, 11 hours + for ‘new’ students. I still must ‘Re-Qualify’ at the range.

Tuesday evening at 6:15 I entered the church where the classroom is in the parish hall. Many consider it strange that a ‘church’ would be used for courses in ‘killing’ another individual. The Bible goes into describing possible ‘confrontation’ and the acceptable weapons of that time (two ‘concealed’ swords… Luke 22:). This including other passages are used by ‘carry’ instructors, as well as other verses describing ‘Killing’ vs Murder. Planning a ‘murder’ is definitely against Biblical morals/teachings. Killing a person bent on ‘Murdering’ you or others, is definitely acceptable if in Self Defense, or defense of others as a last resort.

Colorado Springs Colorado couple of years ago, a church was the scene of a person bent on committing a crime of ‘news’ worthy proportions. Thanks to an alert woman who was concealed carry armed (off duty officer), the attack was thwarted by killing the ‘actor’ after his first shots fired, but before he committed his intended carnage.

In most churches, in today's hatred and anger infested world, with vindictive deadly threats rampant towards parishioners, you may very likely be seated next to an armed, certified ‘Concealed Carry’ parishioner. Followers of Jesus Christ are Not bulletproof and are susceptible to attack by others with their hatred intent to wreak havoc, while following the unrealized, suggestive influence of Satan. Victimization is easier to accept or rationalize, by anyone Not ‘prepared’ to defend themselves or others.

“Turning the other cheek” is Bible phraseology to describe an attack ‘Other’ than physical. With the classroom darkened, a You Tube site I am familiar with, ‘Nuttin Fancy’ was on the screens. He described the fact that 90 percent of ‘certified CCW holders did Not carry all of the time. Whether an easy little .22 a .25 or Anything, he encouraged ‘Carry’ Something. The possibility of a ‘situation’ is always possible, more so if you are unprepared.

Handouts described the circumstances and laws pertaining to ‘Self Defense’ by ‘Eliminating the Threat’. Carl, a retired Police officer that killed an attacker, told his story as he pulled out his ‘collection’ of carried weapons (including ‘Blades’ and ‘staba, staba, staba techniques to ‘break’ deadly chokeholds), from concealment on his person. Being a retired professional, he carries three often. The .22 ‘short’ caliber that he used to kill the armed attacker, was tiny but deadly in his application.

Security cam vids, depicting various attackers and their intervening ‘Sheep Dog’ defenders, were shown, then discussed. In each instance depicted, the attacker was killed by ‘The Sheepdog’, an armed citizen. Most recently noted on the You Tube ‘internet news’ (Anti-Gun, agenda driven mainstream Media rarely acknowledges a ‘Gun’ used in self defense), was the Florida ‘internet cafe’ situation. The two young men (armed) had no concern that an ‘old man’ would shoot to kill, in defense of the patrons they were commandeering.

An armed bank robber, behind a woman and baby, was dispatched instantly by a teller using his concealed weapon Accurately. The rapidity of each instance is testimony to reaction times and training ‘Accuracy’ of shot placement. An off duty officer standing at the sales counter, removed from society, a ‘Hoody’ clad gunman (more common than agenda driven media would have you think). Do Not attempt to rob a Gun store, You will rarely live to tell the story. ‘Gun Shows’, endlessly decried by the ‘hand wringing’ do-gooders and their sympathetic media, have Never been attacked or robbed.

John Lott and FBI statistics prove that States that have passed laws to ‘Allow’ Concealed Carry of Weapons by the law abiding citizens, have universally experienced a drastic downturn in homicides and deadly attacks.
Well educated people (many govt related) here in dependency addicted New Mexico, mention the very real possibility of the financial collapse of the US fiat printed dollar, causing some serious trouble in the future.
Mormons are preparing all of their life for ‘whatever’ :>) Those I have known, have stockpiled food, arms and necessaries that they rotate through by date.

Real Sheepdogs are always prepared, their confident demeanor seems to be a deterrent….. from what the retired police officers tell us in class. Something about the way they notice other people, even going so far as to to nod and catch their attention, as I do most all of the time, is disarming to those intent on doing evil to another person (victim). Even store employees are now trained to greet entering customers ‘with Confidence’.

In most cases, the attacker passes up the ‘Situation-ally Aware’ person, while the bad guy/girl looking for an ‘easy’ hit’, searches for the weaker appearing person, one that keeps their head down, walks like they are kind of embarrassed or preoccupied. The easy victims typically feel as if they are a burden to society or fail to take note of approaching or lurking ‘situations’. Without realizing it, they act defenseless (they are). The professional Officers doing my training, say those are the people (victims) that you read about in the news. Only 20% of homicides are committed by strangers btw.

Most (80%) of homicides are committed by people that the victim knows. The ‘Petraus scenario’ is often violent in outcome (‘Joey Butafucco’ type infidelity, remember his ‘Lolita’?). We train for that scenario. A ‘flip’ silhouette of a woman (‘Seething Sally’) pointing a gun at another person, Within a split second, we must differentiate our next move….. After fast warning “Drop the Gun, Drop Your Gun”, while aligning sights to ‘High Center Mass and moving finger to trigger. IF she turns to point weapon after warning, we shoot Sally …twice/three times, rapidly and ‘Accurately’. Referred to as ‘Mozambique Drill’ (two shots to upper torso, one to the head, technique used during race warfare in Mozambique Africa, to stop black attackers high on drugs). PC today requires the name used, to be…. ‘Triple Tap’. :>)

Another is the fairly common, highway rest stop…. ‘restroom ambush’. This one got Linda and Gary Hass, traveling RVers from Oklahoma, murdered along I-40 in 2010. Escaped prisoners, McClusky and friends, including an armed woman, caught CCW Certified Linda, situation-ally Unaware. The Hass couple’s guns were stowed in their camp trailer!!! Deadly choice.

Exiting the restroom, we must differentiate the difference between a ‘Mechanic Mike’,  (repairing the toilets?) or a real bad guy/girl, ready to swing a big wrench or point a gun.  Exiting the restroom, you see ‘Mike’ walking toward you. Greeting him with “Sup Bro”… He does NOT make eye contact, says Nothing and continues advancing. Turning to flee, a wall blocks your escape. Draw gun with finger OFF trigger. After rapidly warning him ‘STOP’, he continues advance…..

“Drop the Gun/weapon, Get away from Me,  I have a Gun, Get back, Don’t make me shoot you”….. Failing to Stop, distance closing, we finger the trigger, site picture ‘High Center Mass’, finger ON trigger, fire at least twice/three times, ‘Accurately’. Choices, choices Choices. Be prepared for the worst and Pray for….. the best.

Not Ever having to use deadly force is the Best :>) One officer has ‘carried’ for 30 years, other 50 years. One without ever having to fire his concealed weapon. Other drew it a couple of times to ‘cool off’ (discourage) a potential attack. The other retired officer, our other trainer, killed an armed (knife) attacking robber during a grapple…. with his tiny .22 cal pistol, …concealed behind his belt buckle.

The ‘rest stop’ scenario’ got a guy killed during the time I was a ‘road warrior’, traveling along the (at that time)  lightly traveled hwy across the reservation to Farmington NM (my regular weekly route during those years). At a rest stop known as ‘The Teepees’ (now a casino), he was caught defenseless by a transient and killed. They found his late model luxury car, thousand + miles away. Over the years, he was not the only victim of ‘The Teepees’ rest stop. Another RV’er, years ago was not found for a long time. His coach…. again found in another state.

This type of attack has happened countless times over the last 40 years I have noted along the Interstate highways. Mostly ‘abductions’ of girls…. with various outcomes. Rarely mentioned on the national ‘news’, it is one of the common ‘Stranger on Stranger’ attacks.

The deterrent factor definitely saved me along I-40 at the Continental Divide (AKA ‘Top of the World’) east of Gallup NM. The bad guys were trying to work my window down, by gently rocking the glass from side to side, while I was sleeping in the late model car along side the highway. Being a hundred yards off the highway and under a tree, they figured I was ‘easy’. Just when they had the window down far enough to reach in, I sensed something that woke me from my deep fatigued sleep.

Cautiously peering through my slit closed eyelids, I noticed the main guy with his dirty hands ready to reach in. I popped the semi-automatic 9mm (was in my lap, covered with a light jacket), thumb flipping the safety off with a loud click, barrel into his open mouth. He said with a stammer,…. “I just want Money” (must have been honest?). As he gradually backed away, I glared at him, saying confidently,…. “Well This is ‘Your’ Lucky day”….. I kept staring at him, weapon still on target, cautiously started the engine with my left hand and drove off, watching in the mirrors while his two friends (all drifters with rucksacks) stood speechless. Apparently they were dismayed at losing their new found 'Ride' and my credit cards to go with it.

Another time years ago, an older big car parked across the narrow (at that time), lonely desolate highway across ‘Valley of the Fires’, White Sands missile range. I used the CB radio to ask about the problem and alert travelers. No response, I was alone to ‘Deal With’ the situation. Slowly approaching in very high alert status, stopping a distance back. Scanning the mirrors for additional threats, I noted the big guy sitting on the big older car blocking the narrow (back then) highway.

Two Indians (native Americans) were taking gasoline and money from motorists that stopped. They used Intimidation. One guy was really, really big. His smaller friend was the gasoline ‘sucker’. After they siphoned the ‘agreed to’ gallon into their bleach bottle, He threw up, spitting out gas. His eyes were bloodshot and his nose was running from swallowing gasoline. I remained inside the car, letting them take one agreed to gallon, siphoning it from my tank….. They Demanded… MORE!

I told them “NO MORE’ and raised the same 9mm semi-automatic handgun (carried it for the last 35 years) to the partially lowered window, while it was covered under my light jacket. The big guy stared at my jacket, then agreed “No More”. “Money”? He then asked, I said Firmly NO! Then reluctantly nodding his head in agreement, he carefully removed the long garden hose (siphon) from my filler opening, covering both it’s ends with his thumbs to prevent any loss, he actually got another gallon that way :>)

After releasing the ‘hose full’ of fuel into their filler, they pushed their car to clear the roadway, only after  I ‘Ordered’ them to do so. Driving around their big older model car, I watched in the mirror….. as they pushed it Back across the narrow, barely traveled highway, 40 miles from the nearest ‘settlement’ :>)

Sheepdog ‘looking’ for trouble?…No Way.
Just prepared…. in case ‘trouble’ finds Sheepdog. :>).

Rules for use on coming Qualify day:
3 yards ‘Load’ Bring weapon to ‘Low Ready’ finger OFF trigger.
“Drop the Gun get away from me, I have a Gun, Get Back, Don’t make me shoot you” Align sights to ‘High Center Mass while moving finger to trigger. Think…Accuracy, accuracy, accuracy..fire twice/three times..assess.. with third ‘head shot’. Repeat for 15 shots total.

From 7 yards, repeat for 10 shots. Score 4 pts for each shot within 12″X 18″ target range. 72% passing score, 100% excellent. Weapons qualified with are listed on application. Smaller calibers can be legally carried, as well as qualify 'revolvers' and/or pistols (semi-automatics). Only one handgun to be carried at a time in NM.

Every assault requires three elements, ‘Opportunity, Intent and Ability. Thwart the assault by denying the three elements all coming together…against You. ‘Avoidance’ is the best strategy. Being ‘somewhere else’ is the very best. Simple as ‘crossing the street’ may thwart attack. If unavoidable and he/she raises level of ‘Intent’, deny the attacker the Ability, and Opportunity.

Attempt to discourage his/her ‘Intent’. Battleground is the space around Your body. ‘Assess background for innocents’ Before discharging weapon…. Keep Moving, deny yourself as the Target, stopping ‘Only’ to shoot Accurately. Think Positive and Aggressively. Do Not act Fearful. Make sure ‘Risk to Reward’ Ratio is Against the attacker, thereby more likely thwarting an attack. If the attack is pressed, in spite of the warnings, plan for and seize the initiative. Position Yourself for advantage, the fight has already begun and You did not start it.
____________________________________________________________________________
Completion of training and Certification
11 Dec 2012, 2nd two hour classroom session, for four hour ‘re-certify’, held in the church gathering room, where we watched security camera clips of attacks, while discussing the correct response. Reviewing the procedures for sight alignment, the sequence of movements during the encounter, various equipment and legalities for concealed carry.

Qualify day, 15 December 2012. Did not sleep well on eve of the Conn Elementary school attack, in one of the strictest ‘Gun Control’ states, by a deranged young man, of which the world including USA, has countless more. They are possessed of Evil, waiting for their ‘opportunity’ to destroy lives and families. The total reported was well over 20 victims. Predictable where the Right to self defense is ‘restricted’ by Law. Teachers are NOT allowed to have Any means of Self Defense. Federal law prevents ‘self defense’ in ‘Gun Free’ schools, Now becoming well known as helpless Victim zones. Flocks of innocent, weak and vulnerable, defenseless Sheep… with No Sheepdogs.

The future of the ‘Armed Law Abiding Citizen ‘ is further endangered by the outrageous deeds of the few. In spite of agenda driven knee jerk reactions, by a faction of news in alliance with bureaucrats and politicians, the Right to Self Defense is imperative in today’s USA. To deny any Law Abiding, Legal US Citizen of that ‘Right’ protected by the ‘Bill of Rights’ 2nd Amendment, is to condemn them and their loved ones, to becoming ‘Victims’ of a magnitude greater than one can imagine. History is a harsh teacher..

We met at the McDonald’s restaurant in Bernalillo NM, 20 miles north of Albuquerque NM at 8am, for departure to the chosen Bureau of Land Management site. Myself and others arrived early, to get a quick breakfast and discuss the latest demoralizing ‘news’. Ellis McMath arrived promptly with his range equipment for setting up in the safety of a deep dry wash arroyo, of his research and choosing.

We all followed his truck to the site and left our vehicles on top of the ridge, walking down the hill. I was second to qualify under Ellis’s tutelage. Quite different and a pleasure to have Ellis as an expert ‘personal’ instructor, critiquing and praising every ‘three shot’ grouping. The verbal warnings issued to the attackers, depicted on his life sized paper targets, set up at the qualify distances, are more in line with standard Albuquerque Police warnings, of which Ellis is a reserve officer today.

The alert and experienced personal trainer, notices any irregular stance and grip of the various weapons (revolvers and and semi-automatics), which caused the shots to be ‘off’ from the desired area of torso and head placement. My own ‘three shot’ (Triple Tap) groupings were slightly ‘off’ from maximum effectiveness, but not as weak as I had earlier presumed. They improved with each detailed suggestion from Ellis. I qualified with a score of 100. All within the area of maximum effectiveness.

Ellis congratulated each shooter, at each ‘Triple Tap’ that was ‘on target’. Rewarded by a nod and affirmative verbiage, made the time on ‘the line’ enjoyable. I was enjoying the repeated lessons and elected to stay until each person, including a proficient ‘Lefty’, and several women, had successfully qualified.

Brenda had another ‘station’ and firing line set up to attend before the official ‘qualify’ firing line, for those who had Never fired a handgun, or those just interested in the various ‘scenarios’ you may one day/night encounter. Brenda also sets up surprise scenarios that reflect actual documented attacks.

They test your ability to quickly discern a threat from an actual attack, or non-lethal encounter. Her demonstration practice .22 caliber semi-auto and revolver were very busy today, running through scenarios of self defense, using the lighter loads and smaller calibers easier to learn with. As mentioned in earlier classes, the.22 and .25 are quite sufficient to stop an attack…..if ‘shot placement’ is accurate..

One life sized female target is big haired (bullets have no effect passing through hair) ‘Seething Sally’, depicted holding her weapon pointed at you, as your response is practiced. At one point Seething Sally surprisingly distracts the person defending him/her self. Brenda, standing off to the side, pretending to be Sally, loudly disrupts the routine self defense procedure’s timing, by saying ” Hey You’re Pretty cute’. The self defense, rapid response is disrupted long enough for Sally to get off ‘Her’ shots, in effect…as Brenda just illustrated, ‘Bang...You’re Dead’.

By the ending of the 4 plus hours of ‘range time’, we all were doing well. At one point a fast blip of a police siren at the top of the ridge, alerted us to a visitor from ‘the law’. Ellis ran up to the ridge carrying his identity as training officer with his official BLM maps, showing our legal occupation of BLM land, that open range land Owned’ by the law abiding Citizens of the USA.

Upon return, Ellis described the polite Deputy Sheriff’s response. The ‘residents’ of a home on private property a mile away, complained of our firing of weapons. After the Deputy first telling us to go 50 miles away, to the other end of the county, we were puzzled. Reluctantly packing up the equipment, two men were yet to qualify. Within a few minutes, the deputy returned to apologize, after being informed by superiors, of his misled assumption.

We ‘Were’ Allowed to be on BLM land and the complaining home owner was in the wrong. We finished quickly with the last two men qualifying, picking up spent casings, packed up and left the deep arroyo for home. An enjoyable, albeit slightly cold, day of target practice and qualification. The forms must now be registered at ‘The NM Dept of Public Safety’, the black glassed Darth Vader building on Indian School, in ‘Uptown’, ABQ NM.

We are now trained and prepared to confidently carry our weapons in compliance with the laws of NM, including several other states that respect New Mexico’s Certification to carry a ‘Concealed Weapon’, for our own self defense and that of others’… ..if the need may arise.
The Criminal Mindset

Ellis McMath is starting another series of training seminars in Rio Rancho at the beginning of the 2013 year. For local information, leave comment or contact ‘Better Together Mexico’ ellismcmath@aol.com. A Christian Mission to help improve the lives of Chihuahua Mexico, Christian families.

Just one other major benefit to being a Law Abiding Citizen of the greatest nation ever known in history. The United States of America, One nation Under God, with Liberty and Freedom for All..

NEW Blogger, "Change is Good, you go first"

'New' Blogger apparently is, not for the present time, the simple to use, friendly instrument of communication it once was (note the lack of automatic Publish paragraphing from paragraphed draft). Possibly due to my own ignorance of the 'Changed' system? One 'Forum' comment (there are countless), describes this 'one paragraph auto format' as a 'Blob'. For many years, I composed a draft, compiled over several edits from various sources, then copied and posted the final draft as 'Publish'. No longer is that always acceptable to 'New' Blogger for some unknown reasoning? (see the previously totally blank Post about Lincoln County New Mexico and Billy the Kid. btw it finally, mysteriously 'Publish'ed.... AFTER I parallel moved the blog from blogger to http://daflikkers.wordpress.com/ 'Copy' from guest Robo's email (AOL) was periodically posted over the last six years with no problems... No longer acceptable? Paragraphing (example seen here) is periodically lost during the 'Publish' segment of final post? The historically low SATS of US students is also a possibility. Could they be the 'New' Blogger's programmers? Of course the possibility of being vindictively hacked or censored for political reasons, is always a remote possibility. Blogengeezer is continually commenting on current events across the internet, based on a lifetime of observations (what works, what Doesn't). 'Anti-Liberal, Anti-Left, Anti-Socialism, Anti-Communism' is My personally avowed stand (unlike the latest generation of US students, I have at the least, Read History), as is the apparently diminishing (note: last elections) concern for moralistic 'Change' in our present elected govt. In a voting democracy, the voters eventually get... 'Everything'... they Vote for (Deserve?). In either case, DaFlikkers 'family' blog (no profanity allowed), with it's interesting random images of Ducks and sunsets, is no longer easily published, as are hyper links to relative information, or Any Political opinion? Farewell for a time. I will not delete willingly, but cannot prevent this blog from being removed by 'Forces' beyond my control. In the future, the welcome replacement/fine tuning for 'New' Blogger will result, due to inevitable 'Change'. In that case, I may return to post comments/stories/pics.... without fear of Censored? retaliation? Other 'Restrictions'? Complications? Da Flikkers New 'parallel' realm on the net, is now located at http://daflikkers.wordpress.com/ Lets see if Billy the Kid and articles about Dogs, Cats, Trips in the RV, Acting gigs and daily/weekly/monthly 'adventures' with pics are more easily Published. Thank you all, for six + years and tens of thousands of 'Hits', in this greatest Nation in History, The United States of America, One Nation Under God.... Blogengeezer

Lincoln County Range Wars, Billy the Kid

Posted on November 28, 2012

Blogengeezer’s notes gathered about ‘Billy the Kid’ over years of reading ‘both’ sides during many territorial trips to fascinating and scenic ambiance, Ruidoso New Mexico.
This was the blog intended for posting on Blogger, which has archived another ‘older’ post about a trip through the interesting and historic ‘Lincoln county’ Territory.

The historic little village of Lincoln New Mexico is fun to prowl around, as we have done over the years. Mountainous Pine forested Ruidoso NM (about 40 miles south west of Lincoln) also has many documented locations for parts of the conflict. Today due to interested supporters and historians, Lincoln also includes the reconstructed, rock ‘Torreon’ (tower) from where the famous long distance, open ‘iron sights’ ‘sniper’ shot was made.

Lincoln has volunteers doing live reenactments during tourist season and many of the buildings are still there (some are thriving little shops today) with story placards identifying their original residents and their part in the day by day battles. Ironically ‘The House’ is the museum and info center for Lincoln today. Billy tried to go working businessman and operated a laundry in Lincoln with a friend…for a while. Like today, he was no match for the ‘Chinese’ :>)

Interesting thing about the historic little town of Lincoln, almost Every other house was the residence of a LAWYER in the late 1800′s. The County Seat, Courthouse was over 80 miles  away …in Las Cruces. Any legal issue demanded a ride of days to settle in court. Famous Albert Bacon Fall, of the ‘Teapot Dome’ scandal family, was involved in the mystery of Albert Jennings Fountain with his young son, disappearance without a trace, on their way from Lincoln to the Las Cruces courthouse. Although an intensive search with rewards ensued, their bodies, buckboard and horses were never found. Foul play (political) was suspected… Albert Bacon Fall, whom Fountain was involved in legal conflict against, was the Attorney defending …..the primary Suspects, ‘pro bono’. (who would have guessed?)

Govt corruption was rampant back then, just as today. The military (including cannons) from nearby Ft Stanton, was illegally used to supervise the burning out, of the home of Commissioned Lawyer McSween, who’s partner John Tunstall owned and started ‘The Store’. He came from Scotland and became the despised competition to ‘The House’, whose owners, Murphy-Dolan (Irish) worked with the Ft Stanton supply quartermaster as sole (overpriced) provider to the Federal govt.

Tunstall and his atty Mc Sween were competitive (cheaper) in prices, especially selling Tunstall’s beef and most importantly, ‘riding horses’ for the US cavalry. ‘The Murphy-Dolan House’ was blatantly corrupt and paying bribes to keep the Federal govt business overpriced. ‘The House’ owners were ‘in tight’ with the territorial govt ‘Ring’ in Santa Fe politics (The intensely corrupt Santa Fe ‘Ring’ thrives even today). The House hired ‘guns’ to drive Tunstall and McSween out of business. In response, Tunstall and partner lawyer McSween, hired Billy and friends (some defected from ‘The House’) to ride for his ranch, protecting Tunstall’s Horses and cattle from ‘The House’ factions. One day McSween’s partner, John Tunstall, was killed on the ranch road, by ‘gun fighters’ hired by ‘The House’.

Billy went slightly wild after that politically driven Murder of his boss John Tunstall and quick retribution was the result, giving Billy a reputation. He most likely only killed about six men. All of them were ‘The House ‘guns’ and involved factions, including the Lincoln deputies during the famous ‘escape’ from the two story jail….. conveniently across the street from ‘The House’.

The famous ‘Lincoln county Range Wars’ came later, after countless dozens of lawless factions created by ‘The Civil War’, drifted in from the east, after reading the glamorized accounts in the paper novels and viewed Lincoln county as a place where ‘Anyone could get away with anything’. They ran rampant for many years and created a terror driven anarchy, for control of the largest county in the US, Lincoln County.
New Mexico was a vast Territory at the time, which included Arizona. A book published by UNM Press, ‘Mean as Hell’, depicts day by day ‘incidents’ in the life of ‘Dee Harkey’, Territorial Marshall, Territorial Ranger, Sheriff and every other constabulary ‘badge’ that the local citizens bestowed on this true ‘Lawman’ from a hardened family of Lawmen, raised in extremely harsh, San Saba Texas. ‘Dee Harkey Days’ are still celebrated in Carlsbad NM where he retired and lived out his long interesting life. He was another ‘colorful’ ancestor of my wife.

The Ft Stanton troops were called to Lincoln by the territorial governor of NM, ostensibly to ‘protect the peace’. They did anything but. The McSween home was set afire with his family inside. Billy and the other ‘guns’ ran into the home to assist his Boss. The troops and cannons protected ‘The House factions ‘guns’, while they killed McSween, when he walked out the door carrying a white flag of Surrender. Billy and others seeing the deadly result of ‘surrender’, fled the scene, labeled now as hunted lawbreakers.  McSween’s wife survived and moved away to live out her life on their ranch north of Carrizozo NM, about 50 miles northwest of Lincoln. She despised the politics that killed her Lawyer husband.

Ft Sumner, 100 miles northeast of Lincoln, was where Pat Garrett killed Billy in his friend Pete’s home. Ironically some time later, Pat Garrett, who was also a gun fighter, became famous for killing his acquaintance (they were Not close friends, as stories portray) Billy. Pat Garrett went political…. and corrupt. He in turn was killed by a young cowboy that he ‘reportedly’ tried to swindle, some say for land, rustling his cattle?The silent battle continues and hard feelings are still in parts of NM all this many years later.

Ft Stanton (as many old Territorial Forts in NM) is preserved and restored to historical status as a National Monument. It is now common for tourists to make a visit to ‘Every’ old Territorial fort as a vacation tour. Ft Stanton (not far from the Ruidoso Airport, was a special needs school for many years, a hospital periodically, as well as another ‘asylum’ for TB victims. The cemetery is filled with many ‘merchant marine’, many from WWII. Surprisingly many German sailors that were treated in the burn specializing hospital, are buried there alongside the US sailors. A big beautiful resident Hawk, for generations always stands guard duty over the graveyard by day. An Owl takes over after darkness falls.
Truth be told, if I was a young ‘gun’ at the time, I would have ridden….. with Billy.. :>) Blogengeezer. Enjoy life and Freedom under the US Constitution and guaranteed by ‘The Bill of Rights’. One Nation Under God, The United States of America.

Halloween 31 Oct, 2012

Halloween night, mate put her witch (an old wire dress form in hat, broom and Halloween sweater) in the gated entrance way. Lit up her little 'wire form' illuminated Cat, placed on the old stove in front atrium window.  Earlier I had gotten all rigged up as the long haired (silver wig), bearded Roman Centurion/Spartan, Gladiator in sandals, shin guards, leather and metal, lots of metal, complete with the steel helmet w 'brush' on top. Tied a rope to the door handle, so it could be jerked open, while I was sitting in the darkened hallway.

After 7pm, As the little kids approached happily up to the door, it magically flashed open and I jumped forward from the darkness, illuminated by red LED's fastened on the wall, armed with authentic sword, spear and shield, announcing loudly, "In the name of Caesar Augustus, HALT". "Have you come to rob the Tomb?".

Most kids jumped back, several ran away screaming (mentally damaged for life?), only to return with their reassuring parents, who had been waiting nearby. One young mother that grew up in this neighborhood, laughingly told her little daughter and their accompanying friends,... "He does this Every year".

One little girl in pink and angel wings, with her friends hiding behind her, stood her ground and said boldly, "You are just a Man". I glared down at her and said "Are you questioning a Centurion?". Not at all intimidated, she held out her little plastic pumpkin and announced with utter confidence "Trick or Treat". Her parents were proud and laughing, saying "Now 'that' is really great" :>)

One young boy, recovered after his initial jump back, said "Excellent costume". Many little boys then saw the small Brio table with it's little Thomas train layout (grand kids play with it when visiting) and stepped into the atrium doorway for a closer look.

With the pleasant weather, we broke all records last night with 47 kids..... and one father that asked if he could have a candy too? :>)
Some parents asked about the '300' movie, and if I was a Spartan? Her knowing vaguely about my part time career in the motion picture industry, I heard one young woman say as they walked away, "He was probably In '300'.

This year, a young man, door to door campaign worker on a typical New Mexico sunny day. Said that he recalls me scaring him and his friends with a costume and act, several years ago. He said "That was the best Halloween... Ever".

 At times, I was an old shaggy bearded sailor smoking a pipe, wearing boots, a black eye patch and metal Hook hand... carrying a big loop of long heavy rope over me shoulder. I strode forward out of the dark, asking in a deep growly voice, "Did Captain Jack Sparrow send ye?"... "Have ye seen Captain Jack Sparrow and The Black Pearl?" "Have ye ever been Shanghaied to work on a ship?" "Does ye want to take a little.... 'vacation'...see thee world?" Many little kids then gathered closely, all excitedly replied YES, we saw Jack Sparrow... and the Black Pearl too".... referring to the popular Johnny Depp, 'Pirates of the Caribbean' movie of the time..

On another earlier occasion as a younger more agile man during far less resrtrictive 'politically correct' times, a moccasin clad 'American Indian' on the Warpath, complete with layers of warpaint, Bear claw necklace and feathers, authentic weapons at hand, knife, tomahawk, bow and arrows. A rabbit skin was the briefest of briefs, otherwise naked (black 'jockeys' of course). Leaping from the darkened doorway with a loud Whoo Whoop and landing in the midst of the little trick or treaters, caused a cacophony of screams every time. In bold confidence, I did the leap onto one family and was greeted by silence..... The family was native American.... and Not amused.

All in all, an excellent evening, over at 8:30pm as the full moon rose over the Sandia Mountains.
You are only as old as you Allow yourself to feel :>)
In the greatest nation ever recorded in history. 
One nation under God... with Freedom and Liberty for all.

Vote like YOUR Life depends on it...it does.

Texas travel RV

Left ABQ NM around noon on 24 Sep 2012 after preparing and stocking the mileage 'enhanced' RV for another extended road trip. A couple of days are required to get everything in place. Even then, we forget things. Garmin GPS was one important thing left behind, so we were committed to doing our navigation the old way...maps. We are not inclined to repeat the violent and tragic demise of fellow camping aficionados, Gary and Linda Hass

We NEVER Forget to travel ARMED and prepared to defend ourselves to the best of our abilities. As an NRA member and legal US Voter, 'The Second Amendment' is MY Constitutional Right to defend Myself and loved ones.

 Navigator was dismayed to not have the vintage 'Gypsy' lady to advise us on routing, even though she is programmed with some obsolete data irrelevant to the 'new' sweeping skyways over the sprawling cities. Destination Roswell NM 200 miles southeast, for the evening in Sam's Club parking lot. Nice quiet after the store closes at 8:30 pm. Sweeper ran around the lot about 5am. Morning left for Texas, crossing state line (Bronco Texas) less than 60 miles away. Tatum NM and Plains Texas seem to make iron silhouettes in big numbers. Stop in and check out the fab shops.

'Big Spring' area of Texas, where we sometimes stay overnight in the Walmart lot, is the home (several vast west Texas sites) to hundreds of massive, interesting wind turbines..... built in the Netherlands (and China), all generating electricity..... when the wind blows. Long trailer-ed Trucks (escorted) are delivering the pieces along our routes. The Turbine blades are over 100 feet long, the generators are huge by comparison to anything seen supported high in the air. The spinning turbine blade tips are limited to below the speed of sound... for obvious reasons.

San Angelo Texas, south of Big Spring, closed our 2nd day and first fuel stop over 530 miles (853km) after leaving ABQ. Sam's club fuel was $3.39 US, per US gallon (3.8 ltr), while the Walmart fuel was even cheaper by using the various Walmart cards. HEB stores (big TEXAS chain) have fuel even cheaper on this trip. Texas is good for RV travel and we have never encountered the restrictions present in other states from overnight stays in the store lots except Cabela's near Buda, What's up with that?. Arizona is the worst for restricted over night stops. Casinos are OK with it everywhere, they like RVers money.

 San Angelo City Park is in 'after season' mode and we found out from the Spring Creek store clerk, that after kids are back in school, no one checks the overnight camping....after we paid for two nights stay of $24. Oh well, paying to help maintain this nice city park with interesting animals across the channel from where we camp, is worthwhile. The rate was $4 a night for many years until the city attorneys got involved in all aspects of city amenities. Observing Alpacas and horses with one Donkey tagging along with a reluctant horse friend, were our entertainment.

The wooly Alpacas (numerous, as cash 'producers' around Texas) wade out into the channel but become concerned when the water gets deep. No Turkeys or Feral Hogs this trip. Lots of large Turkey Vultures (with red faces) Black Vultures and Squirrels. No Black ground Squirrels this trip, like the one we saved from a valve pipe on first visit. Far fewer big flocks of birds seen throughout this entire trip .....due to West Nile Virus? Mosquitoes bite me at every opportunity, so I don't hike after dusk during this (their) time of year. The beautiful big white Peacock from previous trips, was nowhere to be seen this night's stay.

This park had boats and such, for rent by families in better economic times. Lawyers for the city, of course insisted that the risk for disastrous lawsuits, was too great in these strange 'legalistic LOTTO' times. No more fun toys for the families visiting Spring Creek Marina. Increased 'Fees' for visiting. Thank you legalistic and Lawsuit obsessed USA of today.

After browsing the thrift stores for treasures for copilot to sell in her mall space, we decided to continue south from San Angelo. Usually fascinating little German ambiance Fredricksburg, is our next stop with Kerville a visit. This trip we changed toward one of our favorite State Parks, Ink's Lake. This extremely popular park is always on reserved scheduling, so we gamble to stay a night without reservations.

Fortunately we did get one night by arriving at 2pm, with the chance for a couple of more. Getting to the office early in the morning, sequestered us for two more nights. Cooler wet weather scared away the reserved people. Burnet is a little town nearby and 'Thomas' the train engine was on the siding for a few hours while we browsed around. We heard about it from a whispering local businessman, who was prevented from advertising it's presence...licensing restrictions.

This park is also cabin oriented for families. Reserve them for a year in advance and keep confirming. Seems that if you do not, someone else more persistent will get it away from you. Deer and wildlife are some of our reasons for staying, as is the free fishing from shore or the fishing dock. Wifi is weak, but sometimes available if you park near the antennas on the restrooms. This lake, among others in the controlled chain of flood control engineering, is kept filled by the reservoir of Buchanon Dam which fluctuates wildly in the process.

 Austin Texas was our next destination, where we filled the fuel tank at Sam's Club before continuing on to Lockhart State Park for the camping. Two quiet nights spent at (CCC constructed in the 1930's) Lockhart State Park is always a pleasure. Morning trip back into Austin in CRV tow, where we found a City Surplus yard. Guess where all of the knives and sharp objects are sent.... after TSA ....'collects' them from Air travelers?

You cannot imagine what objects air travelers try to board planes with. Credit card 'knives' and lethal weapons, Buckles shaped like weapons. Kid's cap guns and toys with weapon implications, even pictures of 'weaponry' are confiscated as are toy soldiers with weapons. Pocket 'tools' of every imaginable configuration. This warehouse sells them by the bag or individual in bins. Friday, a competitive auction is held for the high value items. The warehouse also sells the state office furnishings and equipment that a city/state cycles through the 'marketing' approach.

Austin has made the national 'news' for it's unique way of disposing of the millions of TSA collected 'objects', while bringing in revenue for the city/state. Only a few states are doing this 'business'. A constant stream of customers are lined up at the tables of objects. I never had  any idea much of this 'stuff' even existed. Credit card 'knives'. Many objects are collected from airport restrooms and public areas, researched online and priced accordingly, as most other 'contraband'. We bought a bag of knives, along with many various collectible 'blades' and cap guns, some to sell at copilot's mall space.

After browsing the 'earthy' south end of Austin to our satisfaction, we returned to Lockhart State Park for the 2nd night. Morning 'camp breaking' was frustrating, due to a city project of water main repair, leaving dirt to get into our water tank and black tank rinsing mechanism. It is hopelessly clogged now, possibly requiring an intensive disassembling to repair. After cleaning the holding tanks and informing the office of the problem, we left early for San Antonio Texas.

Two side stops on down and return trips, Tanger and Prime Outlet Malls, found sale items for 75% off.... end of season. Top brand Shoes for $20 that usually cost over $100? Our favorite 'Sea Island' restaurant in the mall near San Antonio, also coaxed the coach into their big lot on two occasions this trip. Great sea food, large shareable portions at great prices bring us back every year.

Our KOA campground in San Antonio, usually is a Duck haven, with past blog pictures popular. Not so much this year? Birds and Squirrels feeding on the heavy supplies of Acorns and Pecans, are Texas critters seen everywhere among the always popular international 'Exotics', Texas is well known for preserving from extinction.Texas has more animals saved from extinction, than their countries of origin. PETA and animal rights 'activists' decry that as mean, even if it means the 'total' loss of the species in their native countries. No arguing with 'activists', they are deaf to logic.

Dumped out the dirty 'fresh water' holding tank and refilled with clean, clear water at KOA. Tomorrow is a bit of adventuring around San Antonio, before drifting south toward the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi and the North Padre Island National Seashore for a few days of surf, sand and beach combing.

Lake Corpus Christi State Park, 40 mi northwest of Corpus Christi, is our first stop south of San Antonio. The lake, now at 54' above sea level, is 20' low from the 5 year drought, with all boat ramps now ending a distance from the water.

Still holding substantial water enough for fishing and Mosquitoes to thrive.

With higher glucose levels to attract them (mosquitoes) to me, they sip a slurpy more often, leaving red itchy blisters for my pocket ammonia pen to relieve.  I hiked a bit across the shallow bottom end of the lake, that was our 20 feet deep fishing spot last trip. The state park maintenance mowers are now keeping the dry, grassy bottom trimmed and weed free, which the numerous Deer enjoy as darkness falls. We have a family of Deer right outside our coach window. Bearded Does? They stayed for over an hour with their twin fawns. Ranger said there are several sets of twins in the park this year. Bucks are 'Antlered' this time of year.

I have seldom tried the 'Free' fishing in Texas State Parks so far this trip. Forget to buy raw shrimp and beef livers from the HEB store. We stayed two nights at Lake Corpus Christi, with the one night at 1/2 rate. The Texas State Park yearly pass, includes three vouchers for 1/2 price nights.We used two and saved one for a future trip next spring?

Left Lake Corpus Christi, heading for the gulf during the cooler cloudy, rain squall weather and arrived in pleasant cloudy breeze from the north. Road crews are repaving the RV parking lot and access road. Arizona crews won the bid, upsetting the locals. Due to our arrival window of time with camp host away, the crew allowed us to park in a choice restricted site near the new handicap access beach pier and restrooms.

Golden Age Pass (formerly Golden Eagle), allows free National Park entry with 1/2 price camping on pavement near the North Padre Island National Seashore facilities, for $4 a night No hookups. Parking is free on beach for 14 nights at a time, enticing the bravest of campers. The information center is 1/2 mile south of the RV camp.

 Hiked the beach for a few miles each evening, noting after dark, many hand sized, light reflective 'Ghost Crab' scurrying sideways into their sand burrows and much larger than the daylight 'Sand Crabs'.. Wearing a light with red LED's for night hiking, the big crabs do not fear your approach as much. Details, such as 'eye stalks' are seen more closely. During one nightly hike years back, a man was standing on a beach table in the dark. He had no light and realized he was surrounded by several hundreds of Ghost Crabs. He asked for me to escort him back to the pavement..

 Drove the tow 'all wheel drive' CRV ten miles south on sandy beach, toward the Mansfield 'Cut', 70 miles of beach dunes away, finding no hurricane treasures. In years past, the beach was littered with International debris from offshore gulf oil rigs, monster ocean 'Buoys' and a few rusted remains of stranded fishing boats (one big ship from the early part of the 20th century, described in previous blogs). Shore birds and Pellicans were the busy wildlife on this trip with the large Blue Herons always standing near a fishing group of campers. Large fish are caught in the surf, by wading out chest deep to cast farther.

An old school 'Hippy' bus and a big camping trailer are reportedly still trapped in the dunes... for 20? years, miles from any access. The humidity was horrendous on the gulf coast this trip, or we are not accustomed to wet bedding. The moist wind shuts down the LP fired part of the coach refrigerator, with dripping wet condensation. We have to retreat to inland, dry the soaked circuit board with copilot's hair dryer to restart it, while running on generator.

Noted that the EPA has newly been empowered to enforce 'Lawsuits' (what isn't new?) against the prosperity of the countless Texas refineries supplying the fuel and chemistry for prosperity of the USA. This present Liberal Leftist Federal government is looking to harass the industries that prosper, deviously 'Re-Distributing' the wealth.... through Lawsuits. The refineries are now forced to 'Comply' with financing the lawsuits 'against' them? Damages sought by 'anyone' feeling their health has been affected by the refineries. EPA phone lines are now clogged. Of course EPA in it's metastasizing, must now 'hire' even more govt employees to handle the load. Vote Nov 2012 like YOUR life depends on it, it does.

 Very few major hurricanes this last several years, in spite of the excess warm and cool cycles 'they' say inspires them.
I recall the always unbiased :>) National Geographic predicting 'Endless' Hurricanes, after Bush's 'Katrina'. So much for 'expert' predictions. Hurricanes better be 'Endless' or the natural climate systems of earth would halt.

Temps warmed to over 85 degrees, with humidity in the really high 70-90%. No electric on these coastal sites, so we left after three days, including our quick trips into town.

A heavy rain swamped the RV 'dump' station, preventing us from emptying the holding tanks.  Poured in one qt of Dollar Tree 'car wash' liquid to slosh around during the trip northwest.

 The sloshing mild soap mix did the trick and the tank emptied well on arrival at 'Choke Canyon' State Park, with sensors working again (somewhat). The Lockhart city water system 'repairs', clogged the internal tank sprayer with dirt, so no way to rinse the tank, other than with a hose handed to copilot through the bedroom window.

 I temporarily back flush the black tank with grey water holding, 'after' the black dump, by using a third valve to divert cleansing rinse. Works for a while, until I can fix the little internal tank sprayer. Always something to occupy spare time. :>)

We have now back tracked to the Northern state parks for cooler, drier (somewhat) State Park of 'Three Rivers', 80 miles north of Corpus Christi. 'Choke Canyon' reservoir. Lots of animals due to the National Wildlife Reserve protection.

I hiked the shoreline for a couple of miles before sundown, retreating from the Mosquitoes just barely in time. Deep Woods 'OFF' with Deet, is my Texas cologne. Absolutely No nightly 'patrols' which I endlessly enjoy in Oregon coastal parks, marinas and harbors. Texas leads the nation in 'Mosquitoe carried' and transmitted, West Nile Virus at this time. International trade does wonders for the USA, including countless diseases from afar.

Caracara's (Eagles) from Mexico, are flying and walking around this park like chickens that own the place. They are the largest raptor around at 24" tall with 5.5' wingspan. They walk and hop around on the ground catching mice, unlike Eagles. We enjoy seeing them do their 'stuff'. Numerous Ospreys circle overhead and patrol this reservoir lake, which is very substantial in size. They plunge into the water, catch a large fish and orient it nose first in their talons, to reduce drag as they fly away to devour it.

Fishing is the main attraction on this big reservoir, with large group activity in the numerous park facilities on weekends and summer. The big gymnasium has wifi, so we park under a tree nearby. Copilot walked around the gym, watching Caracara's and Turkeys. Cabins are numerous and many appear air conditioned.

'Three Rivers' town of 1,800 normal population, is experiencing a real oil field Boom, with all of the trucks and traffic. Temporary cabins are filled with workers, as are trailers filled with the countless thousands of men/women working shifts. Restaurants and lodging are thriving.

At 7:30am, a group of Deer were outside the coach window. Two were antlered buck whitetails. They put on a show for the Does (and copilot). Deer and Turkeys including a vast array of Texas bird species, numbering at over 620, roam this National Wildlife refuge area heavily. Birdwatching trails are meticulously maintained. Campers in a tent with their four dogs, broke all park regulations by letting their dogs run loose and wildly chasing off the wildlife we enjoyed so much. They are quick to leash their obnoxious dogs whenever the Ranger is present, only to turn them loose as soon as he departs.

Not enjoying watching unleashed, barking dogs chase away the wildlife while barking at me as I hike the paths of the numerous trails groomed for hiking, morning is our departure for the wild Freeway overpasses and soaring sky-ways of 'San Antonio', a revisit. We intend to finish more browsing of things of interest in fascinating SA. The Craftsman air compressor regulator cracked, so Sears was a stop on our arrival. Hamburger shared at Applebee's, was late meal before return to KOA site, where we are settled again for 3 nights.

 Next few days will entail some roaming (driving) around town. Copilot cannot do the walking required of Sea World and the River Walk downtown with 'The Alamo', so we will forgo that enjoyable part this time. Famous Schlitterbaun water park is always busy with families.

The city bus stops at the Alamo KOA for tours and transportation alike. That is another good reason, including wifi that we are using now, many folks have for staying, plus the (relatively) lower humidity than on the coastal beach. There are no nearby state parks around SA, or we would prefer to camp in them.......including the price difference. Fog was heavy on  one night.

Found a new paved trail system stretching for many miles (to total over 40?) through San Antonio Texas.

The KOA we are staying, is on a section of it, that extends for 7.5 miles. Salado Creek runs through the KOA Camping park. It is new since our last stay here. I hiked out about 2 miles of it this late afternoon into the evening.

Ambiance reminds me of Midwest (complete with Mosquitoes) with the Osage trees and hedge apples that ooze sticky milk stuff. As darkness fell, the Fireflies did their signals along the trail that reminded me of the trees along the fence rows behind the homestead of my youth. A couple of Mosquitoes got me, in spite of the newly aquired gadget that 'OFF' sells. It has a little fan that blows out a smell that Mosquitoes are not 'supposed to' particularly enjoy during their mealtime.

In my particular case, they still found a few times to take an intravenous slurp between whiffs of 'whatever' the gadget puts out (to be returned at next HEB, in exchange for more reliable 'Deet' containing spray.). Original Windex glass cleaner (with Amonia) seems to relieve the itchy bites, if applied quickly and often. Chiggers are another little insect that find my legs tasty. They are lurking in the tall grass, waiting for legs to pounce on. They immediately dig in, insert their spawn and let them feast as they mature. The red 'itchies' last until they emerge, sometimes weeks. DEET, if applied before any treks through the weeds, hinders their taste buds. While hiking, I wear Cordex 'Gators' to protect against any critters and stickers on brush.

The Salado (salad) 'Greenway' is densely overgrown alongside the paved trail. One spooky old abandoned homestead is barely visible in the thickly overgrown trees near the creek south of the nice county park. An Owl and a Hawk kept flying from tree to tree in front of me, as I hiked along the Greenway. A young man I met this morning, caught two large Bass in the Salado Creek. Hiking out this KOA section in both directions, was my project for two days.

 Last time we stayed here, I only caught Turtles that I released from the barbless hooks. They were soft shelled and very skittish as one I found on the trail today. Returned it to the creek, avoiding it's snake like neck trying to bite at my fingers. One man told me that when the creek floods in the rainy seasons, Alligator GAR work their way down the flooded creeks through San Antonio. Alligator GAR reach about 7 feet long down here. They are found in the reservoirs and rivers.

After refueling at HEB with $3.26 gasoline, Austin Texas is our next goal (again), while returning through the little state park at Lockhart for the duration. Lost the business end of my fishing line immediately when casting by error into some sticks that a Turtle or other big critter lurked under. Finally just broke the line to save the remaining portion.

Fascinated to browse Austin again. A big 'Bass' Pro shop is close, as is a Cabella's not far away near Buda. The TSA stockpile had not been replenished since last week. Only a few times a month to restock?

More later.....

..........After leaving San Angelo KOA, staying another night in quiet Lockhart State Park, spending another day then traveling back through Austin, being ticketed by a Texas highway patrolman near a small community south of Burnet, for not wearing our seat belts, we quietly drove on to Ink's. No space at Inks Lake State Park... as usual (popular place demands reservations way in advance).

Even arriving at 2pm, when cancellations are normal, resulted in a 'No' nighter. Buchanon Reservoir was the only option at Blackrock RV park nearby. Water, which is fed to maintain 'Ink's, is low again at Buchanon, in spite of the above average rainfall these past months. Wifi was weak and hard to maintain at our site, so no computer while there.

Boy Scouts of America were our 'associates' for the night. Well mannered quiet boys that hit their sacks early, awoke early for breakfast and hiking. Blue Tents, orderly in formation, US Flag waving over the camp depicted disipline. We happily gave up our 1st chosen space, so they could be all grouped together.

A group of extremely caring parents had the chow camp set up, so the scouts were well fed in an orderly military fashion. Private Cabins are the coming trend at this improving, private 'Lower Colorado River' co-op park, as at many other popular campgrounds. Many new cabins and more being built, since we last stayed here.

Some jackass, 8 miles across the lake, blared a mobile boombox at 6am. It lasted for 40 minutes until 'authorities' shut 'em down. I woke up and hiked around the park in the dark, to locate the source, finding it far away from our RV park camp. Lots of beautiful stars out at 6am. Some nightgown clad cabin residents were walking to the central restrooms at that time. A Halley's Comet tail meteor show, was due one morning.

After leaving Black Rock Campground at Buchanon Lake Reservoir and driving a hundred miles or so, Arrived for a return trip night in the San Angelo City Park of Spring Creek. Watched two dozen wild Turkeys snatching up morsels, as evening approached. No attendant at gate. No Alpacas, horses or Donkeys across the channel this afternoon. Found the southern gulf breezes causing humidity rising as wind ending. Bad combination for sleeping without shore power. Pulled out of the city park entrance way and found Huling RV camp for oilfield workers (Texas has lots of them :>) Quiet night for 25 bucks, kept the coach AC units running on shore power.

 Humidity now dropped to comfortable bare minimum inside the air conditioned coach, satisfactory for sleeping. According to 'Tex' Ritter, Huling RV park host, Lake Nasworthy is currently being refilled 10" within ten days, by big pumps from the flood control reservoir. 80% of Lake Nasworthy's capacity is the goal for this time of year average. The flood control reservoir is presently at 30% of capacity due to drought. It fluctuates wildly, with 7" rainfall overnight at times flooding the area (like last week). This US Army Corps of Engineers flood control dam is big and long. We drive alongside it for many miles on arrival to San Angelo from the north.

Morning on Sunday and a brief jaunt around San Angelo satisfied our curiosity about any current doings in town. Sundays in Texas are pretty void of action. Conservative Bible types are not prone to open their businesses on Sunday. Fueled up for $3.34 at San Angelo Walmart, and meal from nearby Wendy's ('Chick fil A' closed on Sundays) before departing for Roswell NM.

Traveled throughout the day, crossing West Texas. Even small Texas towns had popular pumpkin 'mazes' for kids to walk through. If the corn was not tall enough due to drought, they arranged pumpkins. We saw them alongside the highway, filled with kids and families 'walking them out'.

Farmers irrigate, to grow a coarse green crop called 'Hay Grazer' to use as cattle feed. They usually just turn the cattle loose in the tall stuff, that looks like non 'rowed' corn, but heavy grassy. Beef Cattle munch their way to increased weight for market. Seems to work well, from what we saw on several years trips to cousin's farm.

The cotton in 'irrigated' Texas fields, was tall and looked really nice, ready for harvest. Those farmers waiting for rain, did not do well as they have in years past. They just tilled the entire field under and replanted again, using the 'crop insurance' to finance the failed venture. Like all farm and ranching, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. In spite of the drought, they had periodic large rainfall at the wrong time, that actually gave them above average, yearly rainfall records across wide areas. Cotton only likes water at correct times.

'Fortunate' Texans (not many) have many 'Big' govt taxPayer subsidized wind turbines, scattered throughout their irrigated farms, growing cotton or irrigated pastures with beef cattle, while a 'patch' of 'pump jacks' pull up oil on each stroke. Oil that fills a maze of pipelines underground. Now 'That' is Texas productivity.  :>) 

Rare, but it is sometimes seen, just as described on 'The Plains' of Texas. We drove in the heat and humidity to escape Texas, for a nice cooler night in the Roswell NM parking lot, 308 miles away.... against steady head wind, pushing from left side. Finally Quiet and peaceful parking lot of Sam's Club, set up and settled in for the night as temperature fell rapidly after sunset. Night walk, scanned the nearby Walmart store for a few minor goodies, and in morning picked up the ' inside store' Mc Donald's sausage biscuits for our breakfast.

Morning browsed a 'new' Roswell Goodwill (they are improving their stores). Fuel at Sam's Club for $3.24 per gallon, before heading for ABQ, 200 miles away. Dump holding tanks at 'Giant' fuel station, where we refuel for storage. Adding a quart or so of Marvel Mystery Oil to the 75 gallon tank, seems to keep fuel from 'partying' over the winter months, allowing a fast start for both generator and engine in the springtime.

 Steady wind seemed endlessly from the left, during almost this entire trip. How does that work? Constant pulling on steering wheel to hold coach from going off the road, caused Right front tire wearing on the outer edge.... hmmm.

Morning in ABQ will make appointment to balance the front wheels after rotating the tires and align the front end for easier steering on next trip. Highways are not as smooth as last trips. Maintenance is lacking and lower cost patching is underway. Texas has ingenuously figured out how to patch pavement, without creating a 'bump' on each end. Tapered patches?

Major 'new' Toll ways (massive toll ways from Mexico to Canada, tollway 130 Texas link) are being gradually constructed across Texas. Built by a Spanish coalition, they are the wave of the future. Even San Antonio with it's countless intertwined octopus overpasses three tiers high, are not immune to the oncoming Toll concept. The Spanish coalition owns almost every major toll road in the USA. We are rapidly 'Selling the Farm' as they say. Got to support the world class US welfare system some way.

The last 200 miles were uneventful and wind did it's pushy thing with the coach. Mileage averaged about 7 to 8 for trip, due primarily to wind and hill climbing. Elevation is of course sea level at gulf coast, with a climb to over a mile, as mile high ABQ NM gradually approached. Even the cap-rock ridge east of Roswell is 4,000' above sea level.

Sunny Roswell NM, popular with retirees, is itslf in a lower level rift valley with water holes (bottomless lakes) rising from the underground aquifer. Irrigation keeps it green and growing crops, while dry breezes keep it from having high humidity.

I sweat, so humidity is not my favorite ambiance. Mosquitoes love the humidity and they bite me. Prosperous Texas has endless nice attractions, but Mosquitoes and humidity sweat, are not my favorite things.

 Dry New Mexico thankfully has none of those problems. Arrived back in ABQ NM on 22 Oct 2012, one month after leaving. Home is dry, cool (night 45 degrees) due to elevation and sunny just because it's New Mexico. Mountains are green and close enough to hang out, hike in, if pine tree greenery is desired. River valleys are green, if leafy trees are desired. All in all, the combination is hard to beat. "No place like home" said Dorothy, as she clicked her heels of the red shoes, while holding onto Toto...

Enjoy life traveling and seeing the USA. The greatest nation ever known in the history of the world. Today the USA is under attack from a Virus now within. Vote to keep it Free and prosperous, Your life depends on it. "One Nation, Under God".