VA friends

[Eowyn10]

I did not make it to Little Big Horn. I did watch a special on it where they used battlefield forensics to map out the battle field to get a better understanding of what really happened which was really interesting

Have a safe trip and let us know if you see any California crazies.

I really like to see how the different battles played out from a birds eye view. There is one at Gettysburg and it was the first time I could understand the strategic moves both armies made, and why it was so critical that the 21st Maine held Little Round Top. Pickett’s charge was another example of how generals are very good at fighting the LAST war, not the current one. Never charge across an open field into set gunnery and expect it to go well for the troops. Re: Afghanistan: never put your forward operating base in a deep canyon without controlling the hilltops about you that provide downward fire positions into your camp. Talked to a guy once who had been in that position and he was profanely eloquent about the consequences. He said even his grandmother asked him why they gave up the high ground.

 

[StarGazer58]

I really like to see how the different battles played out from a birds eye view. There is one at Gettysburg and it was the first time I could understand the strategic moves both armies made, and why it was so critical that the 21st Maine held Little Round Top. Pickett’s charge was another example of how generals are very good at fighting the LAST war, not the current one. Never charge across an open field into set gunnery and expect it to go well for the troops. Re: Afghanistan: never put your forward operating base in a deep canyon without controlling the hilltops about you that provide downward fire positions into your camp. Talked to a guy once who had been in that position and he was profanely eloquent about the consequences. He said even his grandmother asked him why they gave up the high ground.

I always thought there were certain tenets of war that were known such as hold the high ground? I think the ever evolving ways of fighting a war will always be a problem for leadership who study and train for one war only to find the rules have changed in the next. The battle at Cold Harbor was the precusor of trench warfare in WWI and the Blitzkrieg showed that fortifications and trench warfare of WWI had been bypassed. The Ukraine war might be showing that tanks and surface ships might be a thing of the last war with the latest generation of missiles. I cannot imagine the wholesale slaughter that would occur if two countries with a full arensal of the latest weapons went toe to toe.

 

[Eowyn10]

Your last sentence sent chills down my back. It would be unimaginable. The concept of holding the high ground really falls apart when you think about targeting for missiles. "Hit me here" up top and easy to see.

Tanks certainly may be going out of use. I saw an article where the Russian tanks were carrying their ammo just under the top turrent. When the Ukrainian soldiers learned that, they just concentrated on hitting the tank's top and boom. I also read an interview with the commander of a Naval Aircraft Carrier operations group, that said he wasn't worried about the carrier being targeted because they had such excellent defenses against missile strikes, and the ocean is so large. Maybe, but it sounded to me like whistling in the dark while walking past the graveyard....

This whole discussion raises a question about war and its purpose in human society. Does it have one? It must, since it seems to be so commonly used.

 

[FireStillBurning]

Your last sentence sent chills down my back. It would be unimaginable. The concept of holding the high ground really falls apart when you think about targeting for missiles. "Hit me here" up top and easy to see.

Tanks certainly may be going out of use. I saw an article where the Russian tanks were carrying their ammo just under the top turrent. When the Ukrainian soldiers learned that, they just concentrated on hitting the tank's top and boom. I also read an interview with the commander of a Naval Aircraft Carrier operations group, that said he wasn't worried about the carrier being targeted because they had such excellent defenses against missile strikes, and the ocean is so large. Maybe, but it sounded to me like whistling in the dark while walking past the graveyard....

This whole discussion raises a question about war and its purpose in human society. Does it have one? It must, since it seems to be so commonly used.

Top of the day gentlemen. I have safely made it to the “ left coast”. I see you are discussing a mighty important topic. But as I am on vacation & already “ tucked out” by romping with the grandkids I defer until later. Except to say that Von Clausewitz called “ War a continuation of government policy by other means “....
We had a 12 hour day on Saturday, a 3 hour layover in Dallas. Lots of great “ scenery “ in the airport. All ages, colors, sizes, & manners of dress....& I saw my first couple of “ crazies “ too.
We did a walkabout my sons neighborhood yesterday. There is a street two streets over called Buffalo Ave., also saw a vehicle in a driveway with an Ontario license plate...
Today is the grandson’s 4th B-Day, so it will be about him. Have day trips lined up for Knotsberry Farm, a zoo, & the ocean later in the week. If I’m in shape I’ll fill you in. Also have had some good beer by Firestone... knot the tire maker. Slainte

 

[Eowyn10]

We are glad you survived the trip. Now let's see if you survive Knotts Berry Farm with a 4 year old. You may need the beer afterward.

Lots of Canadians winter in California. I think it's kind of like a safari in Africa, with a chance to see the wildlife.

 

[StarGazer58]

Your last sentence sent chills down my back. It would be unimaginable. The concept of holding the high ground really falls apart when you think about targeting for missiles. "Hit me here" up top and easy to see.

Tanks certainly may be going out of use. I saw an article where the Russian tanks were carrying their ammo just under the top turrent. When the Ukrainian soldiers learned that, they just concentrated on hitting the tank's top and boom. I also read an interview with the commander of a Naval Aircraft Carrier operations group, that said he wasn't worried about the carrier being targeted because they had such excellent defenses against missile strikes, and the ocean is so large. Maybe, but it sounded to me like whistling in the dark while walking past the graveyard....

This whole discussion raises a question about war and its purpose in human society. Does it have one? It must, since it seems to be so commonly used.

The Russians brought their newest, most advanced tank to Ukraine and it was destroyed within the first week so I have no idea the survivability of the M1 Abrams. The Russians thought their missile cruiser had good defenses too from what I read and it was sunk by two Ukrainian homegrown missiles. I would think those giant aircraft carriers would be vulnerable to a missile attack.

As long as there are people who want to take or enforce their will on others and are willing to use force to achieve their objective, there will be wars.

 

[StarGazer58]

Glad you made it safely to the land of the crazies. I have been to Disneyland and Universal Studios in Calif but never made it to Knot's Berry farms. I believe the best place for Roller Coasters is Cedar Point. The dragster was a great coaster. Will be interesting to see if granddad or the 4 year old gives out first.

 

[Eowyn10]

Glad you made it safely to the land of the crazies. I have been to Disneyland and Universal Studios in Calif but never made it to Knot's Berry farms. I believe the best place for Roller Coasters is Cedar Point. The dragster was a great coaster. Will be interesting to see if granddad or the 4 year old gives out first.

Sorry, FireStillBurning, but I don't think it will be the kid....

 

[StarGazer58]

I am not sure, Fire might slip him a couple of sips of beer to get him sleepy.

 

[Eowyn10]

What a great idea! Wish I’d thought of that when my son was little…

 

[FireStillBurning]

What a great idea! Wish I’d thought of that when my son was little…

Just want to thank my “ Friends “ back in Maryland & Arizona for their overwhelming confidence in my stamina vs. my 4 year old grandson. It will give me extra motivation on tomorrow’s outing. Funny think about the “ sipping” of beer. When I was 6 or 7 my grandfather would give his bottle & ask me to get a fresh one, told me it was ok to finish whats was left in the bottom, a small swallow. I remember he drank Ballantine. Used to watch those “ Schultz & Dooley” commercials on tv in the 60’s. I’m finishing a Firestone Union Jack IPA right now. Played with “ walk-ie talk-ies”, giant squirt guns,& set up a wooden railroad this evening. Ahh the life of a Grandpa. Slainte

 

[Eowyn10]

We are infinitely confident....in your grandson. You know you love it, giant squirt guns and all. Trust me, he will remember these times with his Grandpa for the rest of his life. I still remember the fun times with my PopPop. We all adored him.

 

[FireStillBurning]

We are infinitely confident....in your grandson. You know you love it, giant squirt guns and all. Trust me, he will remember these times with his Grandpa for the rest of his life. I still remember the fun times with my PopPop. We all adored him.

Yes, we worked in the “ rail road” before breakfast this morning. About to Sally Forth against the farm at Knottsberry. If I survive I will post here later.. if knot, have one () for me . Slainte

 

[Eowyn10]

Yes, we worked in the “ rail road” before breakfast this morning. About to Sally Forth against the farm at Knottsberry. If I survive I will post here later.. if knot, have one () for me . Slainte

We are rootin' for you, Fire!

 

[StarGazer58]

Was that you Fire, screaming like a little girl on the roller coaster? Sounds like fun times with your grandson. I remember Ballentine beer. Is it still brewed? I still enjoy a Pabst from time to time and Miller High Life was my go to beer in High School. The little ponies were great. Giant squirt guns sound like fun. I can remember stealing some sips from my parents Adult drinks when I was a kid.

 

[FireStillBurning]

Was that you Fire, screaming like a little girl on the roller coaster? Sounds like fun times with your grandson. I remember Ballentine beer. Is it still brewed? I still enjoy a Pabst from time to time and Miller High Life was my go to beer in High School. The little ponies were great. Giant squirt guns sound like fun. I can remember stealing some sips from my parents Adult drinks when I was a kid.

Well gentlemen I have survived. Sadly I could knot overcome the combination of both grandkids vocal talents. We had a 7 hour day, in the end they both took turns in the stroller. I didn’t I was most impressed with the park itself. Neat, clean, well laid out, great music all through out . The sad part was it’s now one of a growing number of “ cashless venues “, “ genuine coin of the realm “ is verboten. It’s also a $99.00 gate fee, 3 & over & $25.00 to park your vehicle. Still in all a fun & successful day out. They was plenty of enjoyable scenery, as well as some that wasn’t so inviting. Only a few real “ crazies” . No incidents that I saw.
At least up until 2000 or so it was still being brewed. In Utica NY. Matt’s was the name of the brewery.Funny some things never change, I did that too with the “ adult beverage’s” Not sure what’s on tap for tomorrow, but if it’s anything interesting I’ll let you know.

 

[StarGazer58]

Well gentlemen I have survived. Sadly I could knot overcome the combination of both grandkids vocal talents. We had a 7 hour day, in the end they both took turns in the stroller. I didn’t I was most impressed with the park itself. Neat, clean, well laid out, great music all through out . The sad part was it’s now one of a growing number of “ cashless venues “, “ genuine coin of the realm “ is verboten. It’s also a $99.00 gate fee, 3 & over & $25.00 to park your vehicle. Still in all a fun & successful day out. They was plenty of enjoyable scenery, as well as some that wasn’t so inviting. Only a few real “ crazies” . No incidents that I saw.
At least up until 2000 or so it was still being brewed. In Utica NY. Matt’s was the name of the brewery.Funny some things never change, I did that too with the “ adult beverage’s” Not sure what’s on tap for tomorrow, but if it’s anything interesting I’ll let you know.

I am glad you had a good time. I have always enjoyed theme parks. The magic kingdom in Orlando has been a favorite in the past. I was at Harry Potter world a few years back and it was quite impressive. I never read the books but enjoyed all of the movies.
They are expensive though and the lines can kill the enjoyment for me. I was down in Busch Gardens last Halloween and it was ridiculously crowded. It was like a 45 minute wait to get food, hour+ wait for rides. Just constantly bumping into people. It was just crazy and no fun at all. It will be a long time before I return.

Hope you all have a great day tomorrow.

 

[Eowyn10]

Fire, I cannot imagine you in the stroller....on a stretcher, maybe.... Sounds like the theme park's financials are really solid. Frankly, I have given up on theme parks. Way too many people, way too long lines, way too much waiting, unless you are among the early morning firsters in the park, and have a plan to run to this and then that before the lines form. Did that once at Universal in Orlando and got to ride the Star Wars X wing fighter ride where the seats move with the visuals. It was a blast, got off and right back on with no waiting lines.

Let's face it, we are older and much less likely to enjoy waiting for anything. All that said, it is just so much fun to watch the little ones and their joy at the fun.

 

[StarGazer58]

I still love roller coasters but the kind that go up and down. The ones that go through loops make me sick. Spinning in circles has always made me sick. Love space mountain in Disneyworld. I always enjoyed the old school attractions at Disney like the Haunted Mansion, Tiki Birds, Jungle Cruise, Pirates and Swiss Family Tree House.

 

[Eowyn10]

Star, you could NOT Pay me enough to ride a damn roller coaster. I have a thing about falling from heights, so no way, no how. Now you put me in the spinning tea cups, and I love it. Round and round, learning all about centrifugal forces.

So, I must ask. Have either of you done the "It's A Small World" ride? I thought I would never get that song out of my head.

Speaking of StarGazing, did you see the lunar eclipse the other night? It wasn't a full eclipse for us, but mostly so, and the moon looked so different in mostly red. While I was out, the Space Station went over and I got to see that too. We see it fairly frequently if the sky is clear and dark, going west to east. Its orbital path takes it over the Southwest a lot. One year, at New Years Eve, they took an amazing picture of Phoenix all lit up as they passed over.

 

[FireStillBurning]

Fire, I cannot imagine you in the stroller....on a stretcher, maybe.... Sounds like the theme park's financials are really solid. Frankly, I have given up on theme parks. Way too many people, way too long lines, way too much waiting, unless you are among the early morning firsters in the park, and have a plan to run to this and then that before the lines form. Did that once at Universal in Orlando and got to ride the Star Wars X wing fighter ride where the seats move with the visuals. It was a blast, got off and right back on with no waiting lines.

Let's face it, we are older and much less likely to enjoy waiting for anything. All that said, it is just so much fun to watch the little ones and their joy at the fun.

Well there were lots of school kids there, as an end of year treat I suppose. It was very orderly, then came the security check point, wanding & checking backpacks & strollers. It’s been a few years since I last sent to a amusement park, but this was new to me.
As far as roller coaster’s I’m old school. Mostly like the wooden ones & the steel ones that don’t turn you into a pretzel. Lines in the small kids section were 5-8 minutes, not bad at all. For the Bigger rides 20-30 minutes. I don’t see waiting that long for something that is over in 3-5. Watching the little ones ( & others) works for me.
Went to the “ Olde Town” section of Orange City. Lots of antique shops, several good bars/ restaurants, one of which we tried . Also a cool Ice Cream establishment. It actually had a ice cream bar/parlor, a Real Bar with draft beer, & a coffee bar. Place is called Watson’s. It’s in a 100+ years old building. Talk about atmosphere & ambiance . Tomorrow I believe is the ocean. I will endeavor to stay near the shoreline & try to pay attention to the kids.... knot the scenery. Until then gentlemen, Slainte

 

[StarGazer58]

It was the teacup ride that got me sick the first time when I was about 4-5. I have never been able to go on any ride that spins like that. Just watching it makes my stomach queasy. The dragster coaster in Cedar Point uses the same magnetic catapult system as the aircraft carriers. It goes from 0-120 in just a couple of seconds then it literially goes straight up for 420 feet and then straight down before it stops back on the straight away. The ride is over in 20 seconds but it so exhilarating. I loved it.

Yes, I have done "Its a small world" and yes, that song can hypnotize you into a crazy person. lol. I don't what is new there in the last 10 years since I was last there but up till then I think I was just about every ride except for spinning ones like the Merry-go-round. I can do a ferris wheel because that is more like an up and down motion.

When I was at Universal a few years back I bought the fastpass thing. It just about doubles the cost of the entry fee but is worth it since I get to go to the front of every line so the wait might be 2 hours but I got on in 5 minutes.

I can imagine there will be some scenery at the beach in California. Might be crazy but I am sure they will look good. It is fun to just sit and people watch sometimes. People as in the young ladies in those tiny bikinis walking by.
Does anybody remember Farrell's Ice Cream parlors? I use to love going there in High School. I don't think there is anything equilvant in this area anymore.

 

[FireStillBurning]

It was the teacup ride that got me sick the first time when I was about 4-5. I have never been able to go on any ride that spins like that. Just watching it makes my stomach queasy. The dragster coaster in Cedar Point uses the same magnetic catapult system as the aircraft carriers. It goes from 0-120 in just a couple of seconds then it literially goes straight up for 420 feet and then straight down before it stops back on the straight away. The ride is over in 20 seconds but it so exhilarating. I loved it.

Yes, I have done "Its a small world" and yes, that song can hypnotize you into a crazy person. lol. I don't what is new there in the last 10 years since I was last there but up till then I think I was just about every ride except for spinning ones like the Merry-go-round. I can do a ferris wheel because that is more like an up and down motion.

When I was at Universal a few years back I bought the fastpass thing. It just about doubles the cost of the entry fee but is worth it since I get to go to the front of every line so the wait might be 2 hours but I got on in 5 minutes.

I can imagine there will be some scenery at the beach in California. Might be crazy but I am sure they will look good. It is fun to just sit and people watch sometimes. People as in the young ladies in those tiny bikinis walking by.
Does anybody remember Farrell's Ice Cream parlors? I use to love going there in High School. I don't think there is anything equilvant in this area anymore.

Yes, I believe they had the “ fast pass” there at Knottsberry. You sure have a major list of amusement parks that you have checked out
As far as Farrell’s there was never one in Western NY. But I definitely remember one in Phoenix. On our first trip there in 1968 we stopped at one. They had a promotion: Eat 3 softball size scoops of ice cream( chocolate, vanilla & strawberry) along with the toppings & banana slices, served in a “ trough” & you would get a Blue Ribbon that said: “ I made a pig of myself at Farrell’s” Being 12 at the time I took up the challenge..& did it. I remember when I finished they made a Huge deal out of it. Staff came over to our table, music, confetti & the Big, Blue Ribbon & everyone calling me a “Pig” & making “ oink” sounds. I kept that ribbon hanging in my room for years. Thanks for bringing back an almost forgotten memory Wonder if there is still one in Phoenix??

 

[Eowyn10]

Fire, I must sadly report that there is no Farrell Ice Cream currently in Phx to my knowledge. Everything like that got squeezed out by ColdStone Creamery, to a significant degree. From the pictures on line of their banana splits, it's a significant loss. That ice cream in the trough sounds like something only a growing boy could consume without going into a sugar coma. I remember growing up with High's Ice Cream in Roanoke, and it was a treat my dad would occasionally offer us on Sunday night after church, if we had been good. My first lesson in the power of positive reinforcement for good behavior....

 

[StarGazer58]

When my kids were little we did a lot of vacations at different amusement parks around the country. It was something they always loved doing and I enjoy them too. I believe I have been to all of the major amusement parks.

I remember there was something about eating a lot if ice cream at Farrels but now that you mentioned the trough, that brought back memories. I ate 13 pieces of pizza and 3 pieces of chicken at Shakey's Pizza one time when I was 13 but I never tried the trough at Farrels. That was a lot of ice cream and well deserved Blue Ribbon. Something to be proud of. There was a Farrels in Wheaton Plaza that was always fun to end a date at but I don't remember when it closed down. I like Cold Stone but there is no sit down Ice Cream Parlors that I am aware of in the DC area. I don't remember much about the ice cream but I liked the atmosphere at Farrels. Wish they would come back. I googled Farrels and the last one closed in 2019 in Calif. There were 120 of them when Marriott owned them back in the 70's and 80's. It is interesting why something is popular for a while but then fades away. Most people like ice cream so I cannot really think of a reason why they would have gone out of business. Not like there are a lot of other ice cream parlors out there as competition. There was another very popular ice cream shop local to DC called Giffords but it is long gone too. They had really good coffee ice cream.

I worked at High's as a clerk while I was in High School. One of my best friends growing up, his dad was an executive with High's. They always had good ice cream.