Frankenmuth Balloon Village Competition and show Part 1

One evening in early June 2010, I heard a news report on our local station about a Hot Air Balloon competition in a location about 25 miles from home. I looked the story up again on the stations' website and found the details. It indicated that there was a competition and that it would continue the next morning at 6:00am. While I figured that I'm never afraid of an early morning jaunt and decided to go there and take a look. It was in Frankenmuth, MI. As I got there they weren't even set up yet. I waited a few minutes and  I could see some of the competitors getting things together.

I was able to watch them setup the several of the balloons, inflate them and launch just over my head. It was great. I took a bit of video footage and pictures to hopefully give you a feel for what it was like. Enjoy.

How to Adjust Your Backpack Properly Video

I liked this video as it is pretty straight forward in explaining the different adjustments and straps on todays' modern internal framed backpacks. I have one and it didn't take long to realize that the companies don't put instructions with them because they assume that you already know what you're doing. Well for us neophytes this video is great. It showed me a lot of things about my backpack that it didn't know.

Speaking of things I didn't know...Last year I had planned on getting another pack because I wanted to get one that was hydration compatible. Well as I said this pack didn't come with any instructions so lo and behold when I watch a video on YouTube of a kid describing the same backpack, he says it is hydration compatible. WHO KNEW! He was right.

Just goes to show you that you can always learn new things. I guess that is what makes everyday new and interesting. You never know what's going to to come around the corner.

NQE out.

First Official Hike...well sort of.

Today I did something I've contemplated for some time. Well it's not real exciting to most folks, but I had a great time anyway. Approximately 10 miles from my home there is a County Park with an extensive amount of trails and gravel roads. As silly as it seems, I never took the plunge and went to this park and took off on a short hike. Well today that changed. Actually I had a great time and am looking forward to going back sometime soon and taking my son and possibly my daughters along with me. I might take my wife but she's not the outdoors type; so I'm not holding my breath on that one.

As I said earlier, I'm looking forward to going again soon. It was so quiet and serene. It felt perfect in so many ways. More to come.

NQE out.

Shotgun1

Another great vid by Hickok45 for shotguns. I'm a big fan of the Remington 870, but I thought this was a great look at some other types of shotguns and their uses. Wouldn't it be great to have a personal range like his. Take a look.

NQE out

Glock Top Models

I came across this guy (username: hickok45) today while looking up some videos on YouTube. I thought he had a very informative video on the different types of Glock and their different models and calibers. I really like the dependability and history of the Glock weapon systems and  I think they would be a great choice for concealed carry or home defense.

He offers some great detailed information about several types and would be a great assist to someone looking to purchase a Glock one day. Anyone looking for a dependable handgun should take a look at this great vid.

NQE out

It's Over

Although I'm not happy that Michigan State lost there bid to beat Butler and move on to the Championship game...one positive note is that I can go back to wearing the old Maize and Blue again :)

Take care all...NQE out.

I'm Torn

If you've been following college sports lately you may know that the NCAA mens basketball is coming to an end. As I write this, it is 2 days until the beginning of the final four. As per normal practice I am a die hard U of M fan. Michigan State is in the tournament and has been playing well and been quite enjoyable to watch. I live in the state of Michigan and can often be seen wearing this or that (U of M) apparel.

But I find myself at a perplexing moment in life. A moment that transcends all logic and reason. This is the "Final Four Zone."

The same situation went on 10 years ago when Michigan State not only went to the final four but won the whole darn thing. At that time I forced my self ;) to buy a Green and White Michigan State Hat and wear it in support. That hat has been hanging on my basement door ever since and now I find myself needing to wear it to support  the team from my home state again.

The other day my wife was talking with me and had to do a double take when she saw that hat on my head. She said its so strange not seeing me in a University of Michigan Hat. I try to consider myself supportive of the home team no matter where they are. Although this seems difficult and appears to be a betrayal to the Maize and Blue, I'm looking forward to donning my favorite college colors real soon. So to all those that may read this...put me in your thoughts. I will need all the positive energy any of you can send my way.

NQE Out ...and wearing a State hat :(