tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28146385200765712382024-03-20T21:08:00.320-04:00The Thoughts of an American Husband and Fatherhuber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.comBlogger330125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-17386568734472456642013-02-10T15:21:00.000-05:002013-02-10T15:21:33.480-05:00Mallory CheeringYesterday, Mallory cheered at half time of the Zionsville Eagles Varsity Basketball game. This was the culmination of her (two hour) cheer camp that she participated in earlier in the day.<br />
<br />
While recording I lost her in the mass of cheerleaders but found her at about the 2:20 mark of the video.<br />
<br />
The URL to watch the video is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKONGgxOtMM<br />
<br />
Enjoy!huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-20513068628152336742013-01-27T19:55:00.002-05:002013-01-27T19:55:17.651-05:00Grandma's 90th BirthdayToday is my grandmother's 90th birthday. I have posted some pictures of my fam so that she can see them.<br />
<br />
Love ya, Grandma!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyRjDCGBXxjd2I_bY_RD0iOnetRzocBSHypM_glT45xZt_fNXGTNkww2IiCpW_FxY1NSI1J88b3E0AeIvNTAzjk9xBQU3rlsJICx87rHdqX2ybZ2rcvrlGoyMOSK2JpWgR5ykAaznZcuQ/s1600/IMG_2915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyRjDCGBXxjd2I_bY_RD0iOnetRzocBSHypM_glT45xZt_fNXGTNkww2IiCpW_FxY1NSI1J88b3E0AeIvNTAzjk9xBQU3rlsJICx87rHdqX2ybZ2rcvrlGoyMOSK2JpWgR5ykAaznZcuQ/s320/IMG_2915.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mallory and Mason at Fair Oak Farms in Northern Indiana</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGUcN_wxp1eyHmOqd4rz1lbmbECL817lX526iuRzKgmkVIvys_ZL6kT7ApLBaZLxTxY4JeeRUKhNnFDJBGjD6yvzZ3jRXj9d0qEwTWyqdcEgRW887U1TGG_XFvBBu6_W3Jki-lUe1Q4rg/s1600/2012-06-14+20.29.05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGUcN_wxp1eyHmOqd4rz1lbmbECL817lX526iuRzKgmkVIvys_ZL6kT7ApLBaZLxTxY4JeeRUKhNnFDJBGjD6yvzZ3jRXj9d0qEwTWyqdcEgRW887U1TGG_XFvBBu6_W3Jki-lUe1Q4rg/s320/2012-06-14+20.29.05.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mason and Mallory with their cousin, Henry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ2a9fh4AIE8cVlQUlKyZ5_y-B3viIxlfvfO768-hQE3r3aMrZLOx479bm2C1elfplmYTwunT-2W27dKy3UoT1IXrhC-rPqVPL9vE1zj1SlXmm93l9BnPKBrgHjPjAMmeC6jQYxlpWpjI/s1600/2012-10-21+09.35.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ2a9fh4AIE8cVlQUlKyZ5_y-B3viIxlfvfO768-hQE3r3aMrZLOx479bm2C1elfplmYTwunT-2W27dKy3UoT1IXrhC-rPqVPL9vE1zj1SlXmm93l9BnPKBrgHjPjAMmeC6jQYxlpWpjI/s320/2012-10-21+09.35.32.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The family in Chicago (on Navy Pier)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0FYNinJDtFQA2x3ZqGATGBcgm1avP7Rk9kDGhyphenhyphenzlUImrFracW91WkULnrZA3JA3MCI7RU7RsfwwRgtctU5GlBQZitLdzWFmgGIQ8VQ6zOvQEy80QexVkQqlj3ZbzBorpfoorZ9_is0LY/s1600/photo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0FYNinJDtFQA2x3ZqGATGBcgm1avP7Rk9kDGhyphenhyphenzlUImrFracW91WkULnrZA3JA3MCI7RU7RsfwwRgtctU5GlBQZitLdzWFmgGIQ8VQ6zOvQEy80QexVkQqlj3ZbzBorpfoorZ9_is0LY/s320/photo1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Huber Family</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-58044148249571498092012-11-16T21:30:00.002-05:002012-11-16T21:30:47.893-05:00Thanksgiving Program at Stonegate ElementaryToday, Mallory's class held their Thanksgiving program.<br />
<br />
Enjoy the video (it starts at about 45 seconds in).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/IZSWjqh8EMI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
If you can't see the video, you can view it here:<br />
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZSWjqh8EMI&list=UU6tbuvo7g9eflQewYlCjvzA&index=1&feature=plcphuber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-67459787939823058802012-09-16T22:35:00.003-04:002012-09-16T22:35:56.606-04:00Mallory CheeringOn Thursday of last week, Mallory attended a cheer camp, hosted by the Zionsville High School Varsity and Junior Varsity Cheerleading Squads. After two hours of practice, the girls were ready to cheer Friday night at halftime of the Zionsville-Westfield football game.<br />
<br />
The video isn't very clear, but Mallory is near the center of the picture in pink leggings.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/ISkBmkFAJmE?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-23857255664087761302012-07-04T21:04:00.004-04:002012-07-04T21:04:50.585-04:00Mallory's LoftOnce in a while I get the urge to build something. Not because I am particularly good at it, but because I enjoy building stuff and learning how it all goes together. Plus it gives me an excuse to go to Lowe's and pick up something new.<br />
<br />
A few days ago, I was flipping through a book called <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Show-Instructions-Surviving-Everyday-Style/dp/B00380BFDA/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1341449838&sr=1-2-fkmr1&keywords=show+me+how+instructions+for+surviving+everything+in+style" target="_blank">Show Me How</a>, where I saw some basic instructions on how to build a loft bed. Noel and I were trying to think of ways to maximize the space in Mallory's room and this seemed to fit. So, instead of relaxing on this July 4th, I set out to Lowe's to buy some lumber and some hardware. <br />
<br />
You can see the results below. Happy Birthday, America.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrlbulNIV4zdp4cDin_WJjJW5wdihTR1DDdfF1uASFFHUL-gJAMF6jgF_LmCFy3ohYp283CamgQ3wBj9Erjk163s9RjjyxHWIK1CIhov8_-PrML_nzGzy4jdorHmpqjXwxZDuQbWhWG_A/s1600/ladderonground.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrlbulNIV4zdp4cDin_WJjJW5wdihTR1DDdfF1uASFFHUL-gJAMF6jgF_LmCFy3ohYp283CamgQ3wBj9Erjk163s9RjjyxHWIK1CIhov8_-PrML_nzGzy4jdorHmpqjXwxZDuQbWhWG_A/s320/ladderonground.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ladder being assembled in the garage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiulZIe4XhjqrzCYNzfNc7dUOmMnOl7t41w7_7NnPik6auHntvNrif7LppniAM9Ej6XXt0FK6gkZ3h29f1kcmf8LDS57MNB7H4cENfNYnPK-WKyhJZYlLyIgQTYmGVBWHnNsGXm9x4KspQ/s1600/mitersaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiulZIe4XhjqrzCYNzfNc7dUOmMnOl7t41w7_7NnPik6auHntvNrif7LppniAM9Ej6XXt0FK6gkZ3h29f1kcmf8LDS57MNB7H4cENfNYnPK-WKyhJZYlLyIgQTYmGVBWHnNsGXm9x4KspQ/s320/mitersaw.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My trusty compound miter saw</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4xjaTtKNEMbTedk5H3XIuZ-x69gk2M7YGuEHS8wnkq6RpgFunA4IMZae9Y5tpw9_-fJXnAAn8Cq9m9_D_uc1ARgZxBuJjSBssHtnupfznf0OE3bhTcHgiTSPfw015Z4wKG7EII_g_wIo/s1600/bedframe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4xjaTtKNEMbTedk5H3XIuZ-x69gk2M7YGuEHS8wnkq6RpgFunA4IMZae9Y5tpw9_-fJXnAAn8Cq9m9_D_uc1ARgZxBuJjSBssHtnupfznf0OE3bhTcHgiTSPfw015Z4wKG7EII_g_wIo/s320/bedframe.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bed frame installed before adding the 2x4s and the 1/4" plywood for support</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTt6Iix2UnWUgUXv89TQETsMCvrhPhc57hDtUZpUzwehRQXAniaalYMCSfWlywu6e0McBUQDZ9kgDWBP_QZfP5EY82xxT0E8reo-A9v8rSmMNT4vAoYAKx0l5q2jOAfiTp7C4gsevjlIg/s1600/ladderinstalled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTt6Iix2UnWUgUXv89TQETsMCvrhPhc57hDtUZpUzwehRQXAniaalYMCSfWlywu6e0McBUQDZ9kgDWBP_QZfP5EY82xxT0E8reo-A9v8rSmMNT4vAoYAKx0l5q2jOAfiTp7C4gsevjlIg/s320/ladderinstalled.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ladder installed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYVBnD862cmULDfAQxUx1EHhrJ6GGadLb_LD3eP1lGn4j3aYRcI7EqGi50ID83EgJelP0KwCJuBgX0Q9p1KEH6578V99btFveXnrSZzwMfYnhhp0qqSLMpynEad_ER3RSO3TpcjYhoGCU/s1600/2012-07-04+18.59.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYVBnD862cmULDfAQxUx1EHhrJ6GGadLb_LD3eP1lGn4j3aYRcI7EqGi50ID83EgJelP0KwCJuBgX0Q9p1KEH6578V99btFveXnrSZzwMfYnhhp0qqSLMpynEad_ER3RSO3TpcjYhoGCU/s320/2012-07-04+18.59.12.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mallory and Mason enjoying the new loft bed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-86190002964334040062012-06-22T06:56:00.001-04:002012-06-22T06:56:38.297-04:00Only in America ...From a recent article on the new Bowl Championship Series playoff ... the <a href="http://msn.foxsports.com/collegefootball/story/who-wins-and-loses-in-proposed-four-team-college-football-playoff-plan-062112" target="_blank">article</a> discusses who the winners and 'losers' are in the proposed system. I direct your attention to the discussion on losers (emphasis is mine):<br />
<blockquote>
LOSERS: As much as the BCS seemed stacked against the so-called little guys - those teams from conferences outside the six founding member leagues - a playoff-driven postseason could widen the gap between the haves and have-nots. While a playoff will increase the amount of revenue the postseason generates, those funds might be distributed more unevenly. <b>Leagues such as the Mountain West, Conference USA and the Sun Belt will make more money in total, but could get a smaller percentage of the pie</b>. And if schedule strength is going to be emphasized for picking the playoff participants, how do those teams fortify their schedules to match what the teams from power leagues already have built-in?</blockquote>
<span style="background-color: white;">Only in America would we consider someone a 'loser' in a system where the amount of money they stand to make off a deal goes up.</span>huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-9321059085079604732012-06-21T20:15:00.000-04:002012-06-21T20:15:11.253-04:00A Note to My GrandmotherA week ago, Saturday, we held a memorial service for my <a href="http://doughuber.blogspot.com/2012/01/petzy.html" target="_blank">grandmother</a>, how passed away earlier this year.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFMRpI44Fys8dsJCJ8KkgiLftWVYUNtyi15urQbSBCkacYgEPYK5bSX7QskPPKKx7-50Zj5zWOvQaBxEN3uOoMUol11W6hjYMb12qCCJx04dnjdnZIe59evgR8GhMEeltm9agxx5GDTwc/s1600/2012-06-09+12.28.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFMRpI44Fys8dsJCJ8KkgiLftWVYUNtyi15urQbSBCkacYgEPYK5bSX7QskPPKKx7-50Zj5zWOvQaBxEN3uOoMUol11W6hjYMb12qCCJx04dnjdnZIe59evgR8GhMEeltm9agxx5GDTwc/s320/2012-06-09+12.28.28.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">I barely made it through my eulogy, so I decided to post it here, so that people attending could actually understand what I was trying to say. And for those of you that weren't there, you can see a glimpse of how my grandmother touched my life.</span><br />
<blockquote>
I’d like to thank everyone for coming today. It is an honor to be a part of a service to remember such an amazing woman. Since I learned that we would be here today, I have been thinking a great deal about Grandma and what she meant to me, and everyone here.<br />
<br />
Over the past few months, I have been reflecting on a song that I enjoy. The song is from the musical Wicked. The title is “<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AvWfHIo5-kU" target="_blank">For Good</a>”. The character is singing about how she has been changed for the better … For Good. But also about how she has been changed for good … Forever.<br />
<br />
Throughout our lives, people are brought into our lives for many different reasons. Some to teach us, some inspire to us, others to nurture us and help us grow. Both Grandma and Grandpa were brought closer to us to help our family through a very difficult time. With my own family now, I can only imagine what Dad went through. And, without so much as a second thought, Grandma and Grandpa packed up their car and moved to Cincinnati to take care of three boys and help run a household.<br />
<br />
Using what Dr. Dobson calls the left hand of love and the right hand of discipline, Grandma began to shape me and change me For Good. There were many days, readying me for kindergarten, carpooling with Tim Hunter and Jason Mayes. There were many nights perched at the top of the stairs (with knitting needles in hand), that she kept watch for ne’er-do-well boys who were thinking about sneaking out of their bedroom after lights-out. There were countless times she dragged a comb through my hair before shuffling off to Crestview Presbyterian. Grandma was dressed in her light blue Sunday outfit; Grandpa in his sport coat and fedora. Never a complaint; always with a hug and a kiss.<br />
<br />
Both she and Grandpa have left an indelible mark on me, and all of those they touched throughout their lives. She has, Forever, left her hand print on both my heart and soul. I know we will meet again someday (although I am hoping it isn’t too soon!). And when I do, I’ll let her know that so much of me was made from what I learned from her.<br />
<br />
Have I been changed For Good? You bet I have.<br />
<br />
Have I been changed Forever? Without a doubt.<br />
<br />
I’ll never forget you, Grandma. I love you.</blockquote>huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-46046272283199841682012-05-20T20:58:00.003-04:002012-05-20T20:58:48.475-04:00Another Soccer Season in the BooksThere is another soccer season in the books for the Zionsville Youth Soccer Association recreational league. Mallory had her first run at it while Mason continued to enjoy the game, playing in his 7th season. He will be trying out for the travel team at the beginning of June.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOUWdZU0K72xFsdLpXUCl35v39cHpgHJkByRDAnzfK7EsiTRyz-nDI-z1xiROti7N-gxsboODpbcLm16EEaf2LXACFJ5Pz7umE5FRU04CfBYs_epGPlcVIIR_zd_tkWKeI5uWbbbPOxos/s1600/soccer+team.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOUWdZU0K72xFsdLpXUCl35v39cHpgHJkByRDAnzfK7EsiTRyz-nDI-z1xiROti7N-gxsboODpbcLm16EEaf2LXACFJ5Pz7umE5FRU04CfBYs_epGPlcVIIR_zd_tkWKeI5uWbbbPOxos/s320/soccer+team.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mason, fourth from the right, with his soccer team after their final game.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-60788613814699674242012-05-19T21:54:00.002-04:002012-05-19T21:54:30.051-04:00Mallory's 2,000th Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsVOXr54jDp8eLXEneCPBzpwG43uleeqvETsJF73PXWeSHupgo-0jGW8wooAzkkp4z9nZU8WZUfLzjce3LnLpqBP0I7AIlHtCJMQy5NSNyWDuZ_7g0cdKYi77h_j1tpIdMc8lwrLvvBIo/s1600/Mallory's+2000th+day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsVOXr54jDp8eLXEneCPBzpwG43uleeqvETsJF73PXWeSHupgo-0jGW8wooAzkkp4z9nZU8WZUfLzjce3LnLpqBP0I7AIlHtCJMQy5NSNyWDuZ_7g0cdKYi77h_j1tpIdMc8lwrLvvBIo/s320/Mallory's+2000th+day.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Mallory turned 2,000 days old today. My how she has grown in that time.huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-73589345559926819192012-05-07T20:55:00.001-04:002012-05-07T20:55:33.794-04:00Never give upIf my children learn one thing, I hope that it is that they should never give up. I want them to wake up every day wanting to succeed. Sometimes they will fail. For a while, we will be there to pick them up and dust them off. Eventually, they will need to do this on their own.<br />
<br />
Below is a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=qX9FSZJu448" target="_blank">video</a> that captures the spirit of never giving up.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/qX9FSZJu448?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-35640673953652692232012-05-06T21:50:00.001-04:002012-05-06T21:50:57.562-04:00Graduation DayIt has been a long time coming (it seems) and yesterday it finally arrived. I graduated with my MBA from Indiana University's Kelley School of Business.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://p.twimg.com/ArgQ3LbCIAEtG7q.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://p.twimg.com/ArgQ3LbCIAEtG7q.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
The Kelley School make a fine production of it all. There was too much food and not enough catching up between the friends I had made over the past two years. <br />
<br />
Enclosed are a few pictures from the event.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://p.twimg.com/AsK8iZ-CMAAmFgq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://p.twimg.com/AsK8iZ-CMAAmFgq.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dean Smith addressing the graduates, family and friends</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6NORIrmwsrhnzYshpcTReuvRBNB0v-WUrRtxJ9UFWPszcMo27lxsS2LtFedpvWMj0Pd7gWEWBVzVJ2Vez-xCHePS_z0G5tugI3u5aeK1INg0VKJvMIdwHbRLWyuOL9dghmOFRxlq-lY/s1600/IMG_3077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6NORIrmwsrhnzYshpcTReuvRBNB0v-WUrRtxJ9UFWPszcMo27lxsS2LtFedpvWMj0Pd7gWEWBVzVJ2Vez-xCHePS_z0G5tugI3u5aeK1INg0VKJvMIdwHbRLWyuOL9dghmOFRxlq-lY/s320/IMG_3077.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The family at the fountain in front of the College of Fine Arts</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1yChALdqrON2UjFuEfWi3Fpv3np5cKCOa-cse3GKaCdJSineTQx1fDzowz8shiZPbEaRqAgsrrPI9xMqkLJ4QIJwpVUMBbtFOYHtlWs5kmwIkIqI6bXAO3qMl1UeXPUTK3xi3mQPtDzM/s1600/IMG_3079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1yChALdqrON2UjFuEfWi3Fpv3np5cKCOa-cse3GKaCdJSineTQx1fDzowz8shiZPbEaRqAgsrrPI9xMqkLJ4QIJwpVUMBbtFOYHtlWs5kmwIkIqI6bXAO3qMl1UeXPUTK3xi3mQPtDzM/s320/IMG_3079.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me prior to the ceremony. The cords were courtesy of the Veterans Services Office. All vets wore them for graduation.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOjFKHxL5S0aFjNo-_kBHRUDdFm5g1UpQ-D1ipTE4ALDK8o_lJSN9IILkxXcBDSe2StlgKuq33KBmAhcr1IIGqAE2LyN0L_A81G9poQdJbRTAN2jiHl4ZeL5ygGrggOSrkyWc23N87e4/s1600/IMG_3081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOjFKHxL5S0aFjNo-_kBHRUDdFm5g1UpQ-D1ipTE4ALDK8o_lJSN9IILkxXcBDSe2StlgKuq33KBmAhcr1IIGqAE2LyN0L_A81G9poQdJbRTAN2jiHl4ZeL5ygGrggOSrkyWc23N87e4/s320/IMG_3081.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It will be 10 short years before Mason walks in his high school graduation ...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX73gCZvrSRXQz8EYx_SbmNqxUkP3TrJfJQHh2Mv4gvbSzQVdDvbU1YP40OFu8fhCLqFYGzKEzGpBpHxh5ptwjKn454hH2VIjUo-lS6RkyIcHwLleW33Ujc4oPdV1-3ZRqh7N94UIZKBY/s1600/IMG_3083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX73gCZvrSRXQz8EYx_SbmNqxUkP3TrJfJQHh2Mv4gvbSzQVdDvbU1YP40OFu8fhCLqFYGzKEzGpBpHxh5ptwjKn454hH2VIjUo-lS6RkyIcHwLleW33Ujc4oPdV1-3ZRqh7N94UIZKBY/s320/IMG_3083.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">... and only a few more after that for this one.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwnp24ywGPsxUVvwf9XZwJX0zftbY44MZ-Q-OhydMwCQcwSInFDJmGVhXTj691q926OiqV6IkvkfZ5s6XNmeMoimae6Iqv0mXXkdT44DjDBKb-I1-ovqQvpoJa_GPrhcZrvKHiZHDGCuk/s1600/IMG_3085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwnp24ywGPsxUVvwf9XZwJX0zftbY44MZ-Q-OhydMwCQcwSInFDJmGVhXTj691q926OiqV6IkvkfZ5s6XNmeMoimae6Iqv0mXXkdT44DjDBKb-I1-ovqQvpoJa_GPrhcZrvKHiZHDGCuk/s320/IMG_3085.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Noel and me before the ceremony. She has supported me tirelessly through this.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNfjvU__5NiMrtU9MPi2BfA8xMRD6-K_kEHfYxXD_QO4lAxZnwQLDbdqKUZfU7OlFHHOiaZMwMczLqicdnVR26wTZE5AlC6G8JSPj5_ZRJoHNhrutViiZQWEjSLqIf1HqnqND1uK2x6Vc/s1600/IMG_3088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNfjvU__5NiMrtU9MPi2BfA8xMRD6-K_kEHfYxXD_QO4lAxZnwQLDbdqKUZfU7OlFHHOiaZMwMczLqicdnVR26wTZE5AlC6G8JSPj5_ZRJoHNhrutViiZQWEjSLqIf1HqnqND1uK2x6Vc/s320/IMG_3088.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few of the proud graduates (Farooq, Amy, Brittany, Brian, Greg and me).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-70351365643634617922012-05-05T23:01:00.000-04:002012-05-05T23:01:22.940-04:00Get well, Drew!Drew, one of my classmates, missed graduation tonight. He had knee surgery earlier in the week. The word is that he is in a lot of pain. <br />
<br />
I hope he knows that he was with us in spirit.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2eitI48FbUKvOvb6d_EUPl9YUNcUX4uR1bJNdIUlMcasZ7BS0zt6Pd2ee1BM_REomSQGmtlTkFL0btc5tQcbkrwK8JmWQIKhJscEwXRdb4OyZH-g__2yxMLnFhjuNxk6HuCVIwlH6dNQ/s1600/IMG_3070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2eitI48FbUKvOvb6d_EUPl9YUNcUX4uR1bJNdIUlMcasZ7BS0zt6Pd2ee1BM_REomSQGmtlTkFL0btc5tQcbkrwK8JmWQIKhJscEwXRdb4OyZH-g__2yxMLnFhjuNxk6HuCVIwlH6dNQ/s320/IMG_3070.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguy48SKPAOjjmMYQ8Etfv5NOCCiH2zYjZ6Gy9keWy6uo8DePg6CwXnGRVJOMi3w1qGuxG6Lx08R33m5g-s_R5dK0JFWBzC2bOnoaGPX4Xm95ll6ZQ9XuhkGjUkWpNvH-HaSEBAo1f3I6E/s1600/IMG_3067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguy48SKPAOjjmMYQ8Etfv5NOCCiH2zYjZ6Gy9keWy6uo8DePg6CwXnGRVJOMi3w1qGuxG6Lx08R33m5g-s_R5dK0JFWBzC2bOnoaGPX4Xm95ll6ZQ9XuhkGjUkWpNvH-HaSEBAo1f3I6E/s320/IMG_3067.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRkHu0jJpgkZZlVJuxwbCx_csv-5BI8dz5O8D21W5h4fTWhX1hyphenhyphenyToaxe3kd1SWaDmgiQvDCWkTcNoMSf1x5TerpLNl_3KfajeE_rNqoIa69FCgRbkaqKLtHGvNiacIGifIJGaW226Mxo/s1600/IMG_3068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRkHu0jJpgkZZlVJuxwbCx_csv-5BI8dz5O8D21W5h4fTWhX1hyphenhyphenyToaxe3kd1SWaDmgiQvDCWkTcNoMSf1x5TerpLNl_3KfajeE_rNqoIa69FCgRbkaqKLtHGvNiacIGifIJGaW226Mxo/s320/IMG_3068.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF7uK7WlnbMfhy0Os7vYseKQdXuPXalwh5n6ympjIumU87cQEEIPwK_dNgCOoiXmMwbq_CwUrqsrWfcrr8JD9KI9xo5odnzGyXtzKd0CDASsJxfFLI9ME0Yw2w5bME7dKmrwjzTvNWuv0/s1600/IMG_3069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF7uK7WlnbMfhy0Os7vYseKQdXuPXalwh5n6ympjIumU87cQEEIPwK_dNgCOoiXmMwbq_CwUrqsrWfcrr8JD9KI9xo5odnzGyXtzKd0CDASsJxfFLI9ME0Yw2w5bME7dKmrwjzTvNWuv0/s320/IMG_3069.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_UvFfA2HZuRezVe2agLx9a097fxYgW0RHFmXTtqX83qb5jUliYwqqeMyVxJv9TLx9H6Ib62UQF-ywRb1rSkYfsOh473DcX2UxyDvUkhsVE6uDKYV6yC5qEHA67nD7ELAHI5Vmm4CM-5U/s1600/IMG_3071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_UvFfA2HZuRezVe2agLx9a097fxYgW0RHFmXTtqX83qb5jUliYwqqeMyVxJv9TLx9H6Ib62UQF-ywRb1rSkYfsOh473DcX2UxyDvUkhsVE6uDKYV6yC5qEHA67nD7ELAHI5Vmm4CM-5U/s320/IMG_3071.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88NBVjbzejPlPaEcgjmzAH-mBhyrKRbPlF7Y36vlIngBgbTroIgon4wANDJbXmz03qB9Ayp05qh-QSdQfbadjhyphenhyphenUdi1CRUzN5FwQ41xg7UdMhrVRqWR390mpnw-rLpojvlRMjbBsKnUA/s1600/IMG_3072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88NBVjbzejPlPaEcgjmzAH-mBhyrKRbPlF7Y36vlIngBgbTroIgon4wANDJbXmz03qB9Ayp05qh-QSdQfbadjhyphenhyphenUdi1CRUzN5FwQ41xg7UdMhrVRqWR390mpnw-rLpojvlRMjbBsKnUA/s320/IMG_3072.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg358tUl7BhZQ2tHjB_dzNafC7WoqVYmuagODyS7jwY-3LFESGmDpH9MKNHWt2h0syymJR0rDu3FyJsWZJHGmTYEy60PcRiaPn8TDDXA5WAb52q0AcVdTsRk3qQOw4xlXfu-IamLW5dtuc/s1600/IMG_3078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg358tUl7BhZQ2tHjB_dzNafC7WoqVYmuagODyS7jwY-3LFESGmDpH9MKNHWt2h0syymJR0rDu3FyJsWZJHGmTYEy60PcRiaPn8TDDXA5WAb52q0AcVdTsRk3qQOw4xlXfu-IamLW5dtuc/s320/IMG_3078.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZnq6Q35EZf1NUrj49t97gxMJkLh5GU62KxO_e7kLCOyEPXX8iNWUd3eNc5H0IjIMVSgPlZAlkt2_1vDsDgVHVw17h-iPUieYJh4yekvruP-Bzwlwy9E4W-qCFA20AyIqGmg6aQLx-amM/s1600/IMG_3087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZnq6Q35EZf1NUrj49t97gxMJkLh5GU62KxO_e7kLCOyEPXX8iNWUd3eNc5H0IjIMVSgPlZAlkt2_1vDsDgVHVw17h-iPUieYJh4yekvruP-Bzwlwy9E4W-qCFA20AyIqGmg6aQLx-amM/s320/IMG_3087.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-73960549019999346762012-03-28T00:02:00.000-04:002012-04-05T14:58:03.696-04:00Investing in U.S. Stocks?A couple of days ago, Tim Ferriss, an influential member of Gen X (who has built quite a following online of which I consider a member), sent out a Tweet with a link to an <a href="http://bit.ly/GRmTza" target="_blank">article</a> by Auren Hoffman. His Tweet alarmed me because he carries so much weight with so many people that uneducated readers might take his mention of this article as an endorsement and give it credit it does not deserve. <br />
<br />
In this article, Hoffman explains why he won't invest in U.S. Stocks and offers six points as to why not.<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Retirement Savings</li>
<li>Globalization</li>
<li>Technology Companies</li>
<li>Taxes</li>
<li>Interest Rates</li>
<li>You are already over-correlated to the stock market</li>
</ol>
<br />
After I read the article, I sent a tweet back to Tim Ferriss saying that this advice is dangerous. US Stocks belong in a well diversified portfolio.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_FupJYdUVElpMxqs93-FHWp2AAAyR7ZpZzoZWuHueCaT7EHZ2NtCM8jBX78ZIwfs6rgSVGa5UB5Lv8wwZo1Osxq_StXPcfQMOlSmn1QEGPLas82OLGLREAGS4P71QLjNZ7JF25_YEJQ/s1600/tweet.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_FupJYdUVElpMxqs93-FHWp2AAAyR7ZpZzoZWuHueCaT7EHZ2NtCM8jBX78ZIwfs6rgSVGa5UB5Lv8wwZo1Osxq_StXPcfQMOlSmn1QEGPLas82OLGLREAGS4P71QLjNZ7JF25_YEJQ/s400/tweet.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I'd like to address each of these, in turn.<br />
<br />
<b>1. Retirement savings</b><br />
Hoffman argues, that with the Baby Boomers retiring, the stock market will be flooded with equities. With more sellers than buyers, the price will drop precipitously. This will devalue stocks across the board. He even claims that "one of the biggest reasons the market has been flat over the past 15 years" is because of folks leaving equities for safer investments.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4KxBOoV9TnTlv28c27XAe7hoPFOtceoCdkgd42rHwblcukHjljr8lHXqO9sbH6rR7jC-4IxniSVIKJBtZP0JSkQ6fCf-a96yl0DNs59nK2oHIPgikRLJVVOB9r1wcV24eb-AZpDMviF4/s1600/DJIA.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4KxBOoV9TnTlv28c27XAe7hoPFOtceoCdkgd42rHwblcukHjljr8lHXqO9sbH6rR7jC-4IxniSVIKJBtZP0JSkQ6fCf-a96yl0DNs59nK2oHIPgikRLJVVOB9r1wcV24eb-AZpDMviF4/s320/DJIA.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Does this look flat to you?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
However, the market is up 92 percent from March 26th, 1997 (15 years ago). The bottom line is that stocks are priced based on a company's future earnings, and the number shares outstanding, not who owns them. Yes Boomers will transition out of stocks and into more fixed-income (bonds). I don't expect this to be a calamitous event, like Hoffman predicts. Before I leave this topic, I must challenge his assertion of 'the last 15 years'. The first Baby Boomers didn't turn 65 until 2011. In 1997, the oldest members of that generation were still fully employed and should have been invested in the market. Even if they did, it doesn't explain the near doubling of the market over that time.<br />
<br />
<b>2. Globalization</b><br />
Hoffman argues that emerging economies will overshadow the U.S. economy and U.S. stocks 'could be the biggest loser' (and not the Bob Harper kind) over the next 30 years. Hoffman is right that globalization is a two-way street. What he fails to pick up on is that when these emerging economies take off, American companies will be able to sell higher-end goods and services into these countries. Are rising exports not good for the economy and American companies? You bet they are. In addition, American companies may be incorporated here, but they are already reaping the benefits of a global marketplace. Crack open the latest 10-K (annual report) of an S&P 500 company and you will see that much of their revenue comes from overseas (its just too bad they can't bring it back without being taxed on it again ... different rant, different blog post). America is still THE place in which to conduct business. How safe are businesses' property rights in Chile?<br />
<br />
He also claims that as the world gets more interconnected, ' it is also getting much more volatile.' I have no idea what data he is backing that up with (none, I am guessing) but global commerce has the opposite affect. Thomas Friedman, in <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-World-Flat-3-0-Twenty-first/dp/0312425074/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1332905898&sr=1-1">The World Is Flat</a></i>, outlines the McDonald's rule where no two countries with a McDonald's have ever gone to war with each other. This is used to illustrate how interconnected economies use means other than warfare to solve their differences. Sounds less volatile, huh?<br />
<br />
His last sentence is the most damning: "This volatility is the enemy of the buy-and-hold investor who is at the whim of much more sophisticated global banks." It is precisely this risk that demands a higher return. Over time, these deviations produce much higher returns.<br />
<br />
<b>3. Technology Companies</b><br />
Here Hoffman claims that Tech companies drove growth in the 80s, 90s and in the last decade. Not sure which tech companies drove growth in the 80s, but it wasn't until 1999 when the tech bubble expanded before bursting a short time later. <br />
<br />
The bottom line is that flash-in-the-pan tech companies don't drive long term growth. The most boring companies that you could imagine are the ones to buy and hold for long periods of time. Trading stocks to catch a ride on the next shooting star is a fool's game. Long term investing in U.S. equities is not about picking hot, individual stocks. It is about long-term growth. <br />
<br />
<b>4. Taxes</b><br />
You aren't going to avoid taxes. What is the alternative? Not investing? Hoffman claims that long-term capital gains are at/near an all-time low. Will they rise? Under this President; you bet your ass they will. But, is Hoffman claiming to so prescient that he knows the long-term rate in 20, 30 or 40 years from now? I don't think he does. Not investing in U.S. stocks now because of some phantom tax rate three decades from now is terrible, terrible advice.<br />
<br />
<b>5. Interest rates</b><br />
To Hoffman's credit (it only took me to point 5 to give him credit), interest rates won't stay low forever. But, interest rates were much higher in the 80s and 90s, during one of the greatest bull markets in our history.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Xe5-gVMvHJKwJd0UiQu8PlwgZ17wcEljn9e_7BkhEjeVgI-XH0BBy3qN8XJYiuOiGqQiWzJLN-gJXSdxGoyVy29UyBdZtDZRpHIcDYw7UqjpAJI-QjB77_qD8oDGhzjUa0OjuzjNi3g/s1600/10yrrate.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Xe5-gVMvHJKwJd0UiQu8PlwgZ17wcEljn9e_7BkhEjeVgI-XH0BBy3qN8XJYiuOiGqQiWzJLN-gJXSdxGoyVy29UyBdZtDZRpHIcDYw7UqjpAJI-QjB77_qD8oDGhzjUa0OjuzjNi3g/s320/10yrrate.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In 1985, interest rates were six times higher than they are now (Of course, that didn't stop the high-flying tech companies of the 1980s that he writes about). He should be arguing that it is a terrible time to be in bonds. As interest rates rise, current bond prices fall. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>6. You are already over-correlated in the market</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This one (may) ring the most true. Much like you shouldn't have all of the money that you invest in the stock of the company you work for, you should be 100% invested in U.S. equities. Diversification is key. To get on what's called the "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Efficient_frontier">efficient frontier</a>", you need to have a variety of assets that are not highly correlated.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And, that right there, is the entire point that Hoffman is missing. Much like Lucky Charms are part of a balanced, nutritional breakfast, U.S. equities should be a portion of an investment portfolio that contains Stocks (both U.S. and international), fixed income (bonds), real estate, precious metals, et al. The percentage of these securities all depends on your risk tolerance. If you are older, your risk is probably lower; if you are younger, it should be higher. There is some risk you can diversify away (by holding assets that are negatively correlated) and some risk that you can't (that's called Market Risk). </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Not being in U.S. stocks hurts you in two ways. One, you are missing out on a key piece of diversification and two; you are missing out on lots of potential long-term growth.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Please ignore the terrible, terrible advice that Auren Hoffman is offering you.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-75088121895050907812012-03-01T20:28:00.001-05:002012-03-01T20:28:23.348-05:00Andrew BreitbartAs many of you know, Andrew Breitbart passed away early this morning. If you are not familiar, he was a conservative blogger/provocateur who incensed many (especially on the Left). What was truly sad is the vitriol that erupted today on Twitter. @ComfortablySmug and 'Jim' 'Treacher' (Twitter handle: @jtLOL) both did a great job of capturing and re-tweeting some of the most hateful things said about Breitbart. The challenged many who would take such offense should these disgusting ideas have come about a liberal commentator. <br />
<br />
Many proudly proclaimed that they were 'happy' and said 'good riddance' (I am surprised that wasn't trending, to be honest) and that the 'world outlook is slightly improved' (stay classy, @mattyglesias).<br />
<br />
What troubles me most about these things is that those who Tweet them think that the world is better with one less dissenting view point. That is certainly not what the forefathers had envisioned and it is does not promote the idea of a free market place of ideas. <br />
<br />
But, then again, most on the left are suspicious of a free market, anyway. Apparently, obnoxious and controversial views are okay, as long as they match their own. <br />
<br />
Breitbart left behind four children and a wife. I hope that they can cope, heal and truly appreciate the impact their father and husband had on the political discourse in America. Regardless of whether or not you liked, or agreed with, Andrew Breitbart; America, and freedom, are now worse off for having lost a voice.huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-17642963305003999942012-02-14T18:29:00.000-05:002012-02-14T18:29:32.473-05:00Manufacturing in decline?There has been a great deal of talk surround manufacturing as the economy continues to lag. Rick Santorum pounds the drum about manufacturing being in decline (every chance he gets).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The real problem with manufacturing is not output. That continues to go up. What people perceive as a decline in manufacturing is just a surge in productivity. More productivity = fewer employees. Look at the attached charts. The first shows industrial production. It keeps going up (except for this pesky recession which derailed it a bit). </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQk_KKX6CVqjtm_tEgxgsO2CkijVzV2gT-vbPw-WIZHLKdK-J3ChVHp5Xze0cYamEUJaXCIU0yno-DDNrxW2HSrPV3To8MhvOm4H3uJk8Vkg0mFIenPur9oYMBAPjxJcd1ll8Q0fgkho/s1600/Mfg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQk_KKX6CVqjtm_tEgxgsO2CkijVzV2gT-vbPw-WIZHLKdK-J3ChVHp5Xze0cYamEUJaXCIU0yno-DDNrxW2HSrPV3To8MhvOm4H3uJk8Vkg0mFIenPur9oYMBAPjxJcd1ll8Q0fgkho/s320/Mfg.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Now look at the second chart. It show employees in the manufacturing sector. It is trending downward.</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhOM06aN0hFNbBHU6rt3qc6m-SEkACk1fj2UwPtKshjEcA6mLL6pud_OucYuAvTbrtfqVtM7NuYS3P0C4EItTDQjJEDmqi1Jxt78-Bt1M4FoYKPcNi0DD3hmd1CXg8esL-ktR1YXvzLTI/s1600/Mfg_emp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhOM06aN0hFNbBHU6rt3qc6m-SEkACk1fj2UwPtKshjEcA6mLL6pud_OucYuAvTbrtfqVtM7NuYS3P0C4EItTDQjJEDmqi1Jxt78-Bt1M4FoYKPcNi0DD3hmd1CXg8esL-ktR1YXvzLTI/s320/Mfg_emp.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">Those jobs are never coming back. New, higher skill manufacturing jobs are emerging; but those require more education. Continual self improvement is the best way to guarantee future employment.</span></span>huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-45836174800972112292012-01-09T21:38:00.000-05:002012-01-09T21:38:14.914-05:00PetzyThis morning, my grandmother, the woman who raised me for a very formative period in my life, passed away. I am going to sit here and cry for a few minutes so please indulge me as I remember such a wonderful woman. <br />
<br />
On the way home from work this afternoon, she sent me a message. Not a text or a phone call. A technology more fitting her generation. On a radio station I seldom listen to, a Pearl Jam song came on the radio. The song is called "Just Breathe". I am not a particularly spiritual person, but I knew (the moment I heard it) that it was from Grandma.<br />
<br />
The first verse starts:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Yes, I understand that every life must end, aw-huh, </i> </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i></i><i>As we sit alone, I know someday we must go, aw-huh,</i> </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i></i><i>Oh, I'm a lucky man, to count on both hands</i> </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i></i><i>the ones I love...</i></blockquote>
</blockquote>
The first lyrics are advice as if out of her own mouth. "Just Breathe" is something that I could picture her saying. I find myself telling my children, the things she told me 30 years ago. "Take tiny sips from around the edges if your soup is too hot." <br />
<br />
The entire song is below in the embedded video (complete with lyrics). Feel free to press play, listen and read the rest of the post.<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/YzkZPI-HKsk" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
"Petzy", as she was known when she played cards (and she loved cards! Bridge, Crazy 8s, Uno; it didn't matter), cared so deeply about her grandchildren and I am lucky to be counted among them. She would pick the meatballs out of our alphabet soup and count them to ensure that both Greg and I got an equal number. She would sit at the top of the stairs and knit when a 5-year-old Doug wouldn't settle down and go to sleep. She and my grandfather dutifully drove me to school (along with my friends Tim and Jason). She would dress me for church every Sunday and drag a comb through my hair (only if she could see my hairline now ...).<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Did I say that I need you?</i> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i></i><i>Oh did I say that I want you?</i> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i></i><i>Oh, if I didn't I'm a fool you see,</i> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i></i><i>No one knows this more than me</i></blockquote>
<br />
She knitted thousands of Christmas stockings for relatives, friends and complete strangers. She told me once that she made one for a raffle and that the stocking raised over $1,000. Yellowed with age, my Christmas stocking is one of my most prized possessions. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaFr8SGQKlN4YFcoJpXVohy-ggl2_LNxsK9YI1YAAZuSQCi5P8eAw_n3V3J9TQmZQHSKOEJ9ynHyOMI3JHshrpcDzne_QD_smI4z84YIvtn7J5OkNuHAjlPp9L7YeofFt6fSphBJXHkXM/s1600/stockings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaFr8SGQKlN4YFcoJpXVohy-ggl2_LNxsK9YI1YAAZuSQCi5P8eAw_n3V3J9TQmZQHSKOEJ9ynHyOMI3JHshrpcDzne_QD_smI4z84YIvtn7J5OkNuHAjlPp9L7YeofFt6fSphBJXHkXM/s320/stockings.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Huber Family Stockings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I will miss her small house in Clymer, PA. She would bake me zuchinni bread, "grandma's" cookies (which were sugar cookies with a fork impression on them) and pour my cereal in the morning (asking first, if i wanted a glass of orange juice in order to 'wake up') on our annual visits. I remember her and grandpa sitting on their matching recliners drinking Top Hat (I may be imagining the brand) beer and watching sports. Her German heritage did her proud. I remember the cuckoo clock that hung in the living room. Mine is at the repair shop right now. My wife decided to dust it off and get it fixed about six weeks ago. I am so glad she did. I can't wait for it to come back. It will mean more now than ever. <br />
<br />
I hope I make it back to Clymer. Our uncle is planning a small memorial service in the Spring there. I associate her small town with her, Grandpa and my two Uncles (Tom and Terry).<br />
<br />
I can picture her standing in the small galley kitchen in the back of their house. She would wash the aluminum foil to reuse it; she would always tell me to be frugal and count my blessings.<br />
<br />
I am so happy that I can carry on my grandmother's maiden name with Mason's middle name, "Ogden".<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOzHSZ-i85TPLRgSxb5ZFovDPZjoXif40UW8mhSZOkgaJs97engrJsI6NhWqD79wacDpWkQHM_Ke1VvxbjsQ8YHgazTOZiYHV_Hwaja5Ri1WBiTCqQPdXT08dkszRkdk_15SkjSEKJAc0/s1600/Grandma%252C+Doug+and+Mason.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOzHSZ-i85TPLRgSxb5ZFovDPZjoXif40UW8mhSZOkgaJs97engrJsI6NhWqD79wacDpWkQHM_Ke1VvxbjsQ8YHgazTOZiYHV_Hwaja5Ri1WBiTCqQPdXT08dkszRkdk_15SkjSEKJAc0/s320/Grandma%252C+Doug+and+Mason.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandma, Me and Mason in 2006</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Most of all, I can remember, and will always feel, her unconditional love. "Ahhh, you're a good one, Doug," she would say, understating how she felt, as she leaned over to hug and kiss me. I owe a lot of who I am to both her and Grandpa. She gave up a lot to move to Ohio to help run the family after my mother died. What a selfless woman. What an amazing woman. I love you, Grandma.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Nothing, you would take,</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Everything, you gave,</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Love you til I die</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Meet you on the other side.</i></blockquote>huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-38744819540602078472011-11-24T22:37:00.004-05:002011-11-24T22:39:48.760-05:00Best Michigan Joke EverA man dressed in Scarlet and Gray walks into an Ann Arbor sports bar with a small dog under his arm. He says to the bartender.<br />
<br />
"Hey, can I leave my dog here while I go to the OSU - U of M game?"<br />
<br />
"A dog in my bar? No way."<br />
<br />
"But he's a special dog," the OSU fan says.<br />
<br />
"In what way?" The bartender asks.<br />
<br />
"Well," says the Buckeye, "he will watch the game on TV with you. When OSU scores, he will walk up and down the bar on his hind legs. When Michigan scores, he will walk up and down the bar on his front legs. When Ohio State wins, he will do back flips all the way down the bar and back."<br />
<br />
"Wow," the bartender says. "What does he do when Michigan wins?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know" says the Buckeye. "He's only seven years old."huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-40071120692626685742011-05-22T20:22:00.000-04:002011-05-22T20:22:50.993-04:00Mason's Soccer Season<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQfpZHptrVekFgtPzOxkDiCdZO9y0k-TDT095W_pGL8zyuB8fx7vGbJEAfE1T8EZTOzxC8DoPiSDT_-C_LRb2Eh9sv2LjE2IVSXEs6oVtKy_xVJ8tZalEEjNS6itUM_DiCT7M4cXGWaos/s1600/Mason+at+Soccer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQfpZHptrVekFgtPzOxkDiCdZO9y0k-TDT095W_pGL8zyuB8fx7vGbJEAfE1T8EZTOzxC8DoPiSDT_-C_LRb2Eh9sv2LjE2IVSXEs6oVtKy_xVJ8tZalEEjNS6itUM_DiCT7M4cXGWaos/s320/Mason+at+Soccer.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Mason wrapped up his Under 7 soccer season today. This was his first season with goalies and refs but he took to it very well.huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-29497981986971626962011-03-05T20:28:00.001-05:002011-03-06T22:43:52.655-05:002nd Year In-Residence, Kelley DirectAs I came back from Indiana University, after a grueling and exciting week, Mallory met me at the door. "Daddy!" she yelled, jumping into my arms. "Where have you been?"<br />
"At school," I replied.<br />
"Doing what?"<br />
"I was studying strategic business analysis," I explained.<br />
"What's 'business'?" she asked.<br />
"Well, its when people buy and sell things from each other."<br />
"Oh. I have a calendar on my locker at school, you know."<br />
<br />
Our week kicked off last Saturday, as my classmates arrived from all over the country (and the world). We gathered in the Indiana Memorial Union for a welcome from the Chair of the Kelley Direct Program, Professor Eric Richards. We sat through a few other briefs before our welcome reception. It was a chance to catch up with friends and acquaintances that I had met last year at our first in-residence program and to (finally) meet some of the professors that had taught us so much over the first year. <br />
<br />
Reuniting with the likes of Jeremy, Drew, Greg, Bryan, Amy and others was a great time. Swapping 'war stories' with active duty folks Clark, Laura, and Gabe allowed my to reflect a bit on my service and and I am glad that these brave warriors are still defending our nation. It was unfortunate that I could not spend more time with Will, Lee, Ken, Raghu, Brian, Cindy, Lauren and the many other folks that returned from from our year one in residency. <br />
<br />
Between bowling, eating way to much food and watching the Hoosiers come up short against the Badgers at Assembly Hall, we actually manged to do a fair amount of learning. The Kelley Direct Program partnered with Cummins (the giant engine maker here in Indiana) so that the students could perform a 'live' case study. Unlike <a href="http://doughuber.blogspot.com/2010/02/i-arrived-at-stonegate-elementary-on.html">last year</a>, when we were restricted to the material provided to us, now it was just the opposite. A world of information was at our disposal and we immediately began to swim in data as we tried to answer the four questions posed to us. We worked diligently for four days before presenting to a panel of judges.<br />
<br />
My team, including Tamir, Mike and John, did our best to wade through the problem and come up with a recommendation that we felt answered the questions. Unfortunately, our team didn't win, but after seeing the final three teams compete, I knew we lost to the best. The three that won were articulate, detailed and comprehensive in their analysis. I HATE losing, but if I am going to, then I don't mind (as much) losing to the best. Hats off to the winners.<br />
<br />
Our professor, Idie Kesner was top notch. Leading us throughout the week, she was assisted by Professors Matt Semadeni, Sreenivas Kamma and Arlen Langvardt. They were terrific in their delivery and insight. I am proud to say that I learned a great deal from each of them. <br />
<br />
As always, the Kelley Direct staff was top notch. Led by Terrill Cosgray, Roberta, Jane, Lindsey, Donna, Mark, Kathy, the amazing IT staff and many others made the logistics look effortless (and I know I am forgetting lots of folks so please forgive me). <br />
<br />
The only downside is that there isn't a 3rd year in-residency. All the best to my cohort as they begin their second year. I hope to see you all at graduation.huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-78931050783599908842011-02-18T06:21:00.001-05:002011-02-18T06:21:46.523-05:00Crazy Day Today at Stonegate<div><p>It's just what the title says...</p>
<br/><img src='http://lh6.ggpht.com/_yBWHNfLCMtk/TV5WObSCl4I/AAAAAAAACxs/jHMxSr4WB5M/1298028048053.png' /></div>huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-89919762013701674042011-02-15T19:56:00.000-05:002011-02-15T19:56:53.014-05:00USAAI love my bank. I just deposited a check using nothing more than a pen (to endorse the check) and a cell phone; which recorded an image of the check (front and back) and sent it off to my bank.<br />
<br />
Yet one more reason that USAA Federal Savings Bank is the best.huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-23029380626496860852011-02-05T20:53:00.000-05:002011-02-05T20:53:44.607-05:00Pancake Breakfast 2011In <a href="http://doughuber.blogspot.com/2009/10/successful-breakfast.html">October 2009</a>, I hosted my first Dad's Club Pancake Breakfast at Stonegate. This year we decided to have the event in the Winter. I am proud to say that it was a terrific event despite Mother Nature's best efforts to thwart the production with 4+ inches of snow.<br />
<br />
We had a great group of volunteers that helped through the entire event. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY5I98BFcqCLAxJDMfzN0I97hGvqOAiG5XPVfiQiOojGVpgIjIJok6dwYNTAzHLv10wFYK50S8O0q-6Ze5SMdn5zg2qRqeuwG1w8U1iasVf0G82OXQWJVw8yGD0aVfeLYML_a5asgf7VU/s1600/2011-02-05+09.31.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY5I98BFcqCLAxJDMfzN0I97hGvqOAiG5XPVfiQiOojGVpgIjIJok6dwYNTAzHLv10wFYK50S8O0q-6Ze5SMdn5zg2qRqeuwG1w8U1iasVf0G82OXQWJVw8yGD0aVfeLYML_a5asgf7VU/s320/2011-02-05+09.31.39.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Volunteer Dads readying the batter and griddles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The event started off a bit slow but quickly picked up steam. Stonegate's own Choralaires performed midway through the breakfast, filling the cafeteria with wonderful sounds.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0Bsl77lG98Xd1A1H3MccWitntuoQH08pG6dSsf8WGz21sTvM1LRvUHRnsFUP9pJdfhlaqlMVfNN34fHbLv7oVlasGF5tW-dP5G0tK0OXZxDvpqQiMnYwpRgonw4H4k13wetCgfCn3lw/s1600/2011-02-05+10.16.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0Bsl77lG98Xd1A1H3MccWitntuoQH08pG6dSsf8WGz21sTvM1LRvUHRnsFUP9pJdfhlaqlMVfNN34fHbLv7oVlasGF5tW-dP5G0tK0OXZxDvpqQiMnYwpRgonw4H4k13wetCgfCn3lw/s320/2011-02-05+10.16.15.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Choralaires, led by Josh Pedde</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Many, many sincerely thanks to the Dad volunteers, Kris Landis, Nancy Fitzpatrick, Cathy Rowan, and the SGE janitorial staff. Also a HUGE thank-you to our sponsors, <a href="http://www.imcu.com/">Indiana Members Credit Union</a>, <a href="http://www.pediatricsofavon.com/">Pediatric Associates of Avon</a>, <a href="http://www.hustonelectric.com/">Huston Electric</a>, and <a href="http://kellerniemann.com/">KellerNiemann</a> for their support of our event.<br />
<br />
Also, to the children who helped with smiles aplenty, it was much appreciated.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimdyQoHUMhGnCArB_oQbhg4toCfOIQIaBOVuy_4f37YtSQAp-dZbvc6Xbjjs6S7w8Ea3nt9JnwL1dUMQj9ek1obOb767zcbkptEdvjvinhun0EkaDj8yj9T25cLNt5kyiXyrZhPPTuJf4/s1600/2011-02-05+09.31.58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimdyQoHUMhGnCArB_oQbhg4toCfOIQIaBOVuy_4f37YtSQAp-dZbvc6Xbjjs6S7w8Ea3nt9JnwL1dUMQj9ek1obOb767zcbkptEdvjvinhun0EkaDj8yj9T25cLNt5kyiXyrZhPPTuJf4/s320/2011-02-05+09.31.58.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three young ladies with plenty of initiative</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4brZUlxrXoQSYM2yrYp3HZLyO0baAWivye_-L5UocI45jaO09IyjZNyErM4AwPp3BFAWX4aTUvIyScBYqeo07FOJMtf4sIZbd0WDroOrT7crx65UdoIrbLjVlAgxpLV0ImCDv9IL6s3k/s1600/Mason+doing+dishes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4brZUlxrXoQSYM2yrYp3HZLyO0baAWivye_-L5UocI45jaO09IyjZNyErM4AwPp3BFAWX4aTUvIyScBYqeo07FOJMtf4sIZbd0WDroOrT7crx65UdoIrbLjVlAgxpLV0ImCDv9IL6s3k/s320/Mason+doing+dishes.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mason ... doing dishes for the first time ... ever</td></tr>
</tbody></table>huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-27514421244775049492011-02-03T21:00:00.000-05:002011-02-03T21:00:36.270-05:00Icy Wonderland<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Everyone has seen the news. This is the scene from my driveway.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>/Ice, ice, baby; too cold/</i></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmPOrF3czk5ZPIBYLtUEUUSEqb2k2c88NPl43XSLA5E5HOysD_hwmu-VPDPGyOaWDLkmyGYOJ77lyRbpkAAV4n3efEhtSi070GJoIJ98a9vrT70fVia13DJ5hxj9mtt3GRX_JhfJu-ydg/s1600/IMG_2750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmPOrF3czk5ZPIBYLtUEUUSEqb2k2c88NPl43XSLA5E5HOysD_hwmu-VPDPGyOaWDLkmyGYOJ77lyRbpkAAV4n3efEhtSi070GJoIJ98a9vrT70fVia13DJ5hxj9mtt3GRX_JhfJu-ydg/s320/IMG_2750.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3gc4hnd9woQOxHAyivqSjR6xwRbf9KnP1iqnBnbgFUcDizgAxhX9RvJ94BzHmEVmAjw-7GkfIkfmEv1Vjm0V2aInVmv0AT9_id80MUxt4K0IxQGF4jvWAY4zbUovx2QEb-F99bLyRG1I/s1600/IMG_2751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3gc4hnd9woQOxHAyivqSjR6xwRbf9KnP1iqnBnbgFUcDizgAxhX9RvJ94BzHmEVmAjw-7GkfIkfmEv1Vjm0V2aInVmv0AT9_id80MUxt4K0IxQGF4jvWAY4zbUovx2QEb-F99bLyRG1I/s320/IMG_2751.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh06GTbuWzUeFpzoednrQdtLb7qi9G_7YRAYFUyxH6ai5IgnAw7fu8JEhFksmexnuTKTqSNL8_1K6EE-ZrAeQoIL1B2vPS604A7oR62dSJrAmspNqtvI8q-W7gjMLuRDYSbzbs50bA_I3A/s1600/IMG_2752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh06GTbuWzUeFpzoednrQdtLb7qi9G_7YRAYFUyxH6ai5IgnAw7fu8JEhFksmexnuTKTqSNL8_1K6EE-ZrAeQoIL1B2vPS604A7oR62dSJrAmspNqtvI8q-W7gjMLuRDYSbzbs50bA_I3A/s320/IMG_2752.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZq95XLgkNrIGRWzc68oaaXHkV-RLe-sVsXtO8z4ec5K_yRd3ovJEfuJ8Sovp7hNrIsiqnt9POo4_0st7Ba8aTRrzX8eLauDReR52sKCGapB1G5Z31tlz9S3egQ8dpaTAhyphenhyphenUT4ZrTdUQ8/s1600/IMG_2753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZq95XLgkNrIGRWzc68oaaXHkV-RLe-sVsXtO8z4ec5K_yRd3ovJEfuJ8Sovp7hNrIsiqnt9POo4_0st7Ba8aTRrzX8eLauDReR52sKCGapB1G5Z31tlz9S3egQ8dpaTAhyphenhyphenUT4ZrTdUQ8/s320/IMG_2753.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-20269138698924856442011-01-24T22:28:00.000-05:002011-01-24T22:28:18.878-05:00DIY For the Adventure of it All - Part 5This last DIY project started a little over a month ago. I have always (and by always, I mean as long as we have lived in our current house) wanted a TV mounted to the wall. I am not sure why, really. But, it has been a want of mine. This Christmas, I finally got sign-off and set about my journey. We chose the loft upstairs (probably because it is so cold downstairs in the winter). I did a bit of research and then I was off to Lowe's (yes, this is how every 'DIY' story starts, I know). I met a gentleman named Greg who was extremely helpful in what I needed. He was especially helpful with my wiring questions. It even prompted a Tweet.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFfGGejgEYId0PzRTfoFZM-vJk5QQ5ognansvwWusjYIIikn7KcQyfGp7Kw26kD5WInThO5emEYFo8ysAQwoSLCHw1hyUhZwt2RDleGpVPS9sKip1S1Ruz_3ysvaHJ_K7TPgf4abNAne8/s1600/LowesTweet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFfGGejgEYId0PzRTfoFZM-vJk5QQ5ognansvwWusjYIIikn7KcQyfGp7Kw26kD5WInThO5emEYFo8ysAQwoSLCHw1hyUhZwt2RDleGpVPS9sKip1S1Ruz_3ysvaHJ_K7TPgf4abNAne8/s320/LowesTweet.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Anyway, I decided to add a 110v outlet, move the cable, add some blocking and rough in some speaker wire. So, with my trusty utility knife, I cut a (big) hole in the wall. "Oh," was Noel's reaction. "That's a big hole in the wall."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiioE7C_yoF5JNhIMwzStoHiNr4xEc1i9gGxoNjB5HvPubMiDs2iSc19Qs-FS5k3Id1ru74RFAbS4YACFleHnY4B2vvTvlXrOFz_AI6NmdnVpcN2OYWUAglOfdy_Xni2D-Eyg7huAuZC1Q/s1600/IMG_2668.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiioE7C_yoF5JNhIMwzStoHiNr4xEc1i9gGxoNjB5HvPubMiDs2iSc19Qs-FS5k3Id1ru74RFAbS4YACFleHnY4B2vvTvlXrOFz_AI6NmdnVpcN2OYWUAglOfdy_Xni2D-Eyg7huAuZC1Q/s320/IMG_2668.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The first thing I did was add some horizontal blocking with 2"x6" boards. The metal hangers worked perfectly and went up easily with wood screws.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZyuH7V9dLBxzSQDP5ZgrvMsrnIcC54GLEdoLwHybvuSMyv1dpEGWI6B6IG9OVMQMCK2GxnMrt-cQJz81JAIhP5usH67WpAsgFWQPPHiI8-DtG5VPf6TzZujcd-kTfHceou9KP849J9ck/s1600/IMG_2670.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZyuH7V9dLBxzSQDP5ZgrvMsrnIcC54GLEdoLwHybvuSMyv1dpEGWI6B6IG9OVMQMCK2GxnMrt-cQJz81JAIhP5usH67WpAsgFWQPPHiI8-DtG5VPf6TzZujcd-kTfHceou9KP849J9ck/s320/IMG_2670.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
From there, I set about shutting off the breaker in the garage, testing the outlets to see if they were hot and then testing them again. Once I was confident they were not 'hot', I pulled out my handy-dandy wiring diagram that Greg from Lowe's drew for me and went to work wiring the additional outlet. The cable was easy to move as it did not require any additional wiring; just a junction box. I nailed in a third junction box to run the center channel speaker along with a future HDMI cable (if you are going to do this, don't forget to add a pull string to pull down through the wall).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ZZ4K1LaT1D9ocsRbsWhtoqHKv2YCxwKmV4HLBbegCexMAUtBWQJhUgGP07sp9ynOThDABsSo67V-uzSrycKr4pQ8xboIz73H1hMGZx7sCxByf6HAal9zW540ILN2WcQBHt-jNSw74l0/s1600/IMG_2686.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ZZ4K1LaT1D9ocsRbsWhtoqHKv2YCxwKmV4HLBbegCexMAUtBWQJhUgGP07sp9ynOThDABsSo67V-uzSrycKr4pQ8xboIz73H1hMGZx7sCxByf6HAal9zW540ILN2WcQBHt-jNSw74l0/s320/IMG_2686.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
That night, I measured out 30' pieces of speaker wire and labeled them with 'center', 'woofer', 'front left', and 'front right' on each end (with masking tape). The next day, I went up into the attick and drilled a couple of holes in the top plate of the wall to feed the wires down. The position was easy to find as I just traced the existing coaxial cable and drilled right next to it. I fed the wires down through the holes.<br />
<br />
Next came the drywall and painting (a full 21 days later ... yes, Noel had to stare at that eyesore for three weeks, but she was very patient. That's why I love her). The drywall guy was in our house for about 90 minutes. After the mud dried, I gave it a light sanding and then painted it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWGqB5ZjMvQhCQNR_IXvt-dpRzrq1-yltpoKMboyZ0DolNnW6trwE87Tov5yzzblcyLtubWiQiy4jE6lRiOwk7gPPBumV-rvNvnnzF1G0_Gc7C_gCq5zQR4BGMP1UgYQLCY1nwwtoFUcs/s1600/IMG_2712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWGqB5ZjMvQhCQNR_IXvt-dpRzrq1-yltpoKMboyZ0DolNnW6trwE87Tov5yzzblcyLtubWiQiy4jE6lRiOwk7gPPBumV-rvNvnnzF1G0_Gc7C_gCq5zQR4BGMP1UgYQLCY1nwwtoFUcs/s320/IMG_2712.jpg" width="301" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqXyP5MDQF5LcbO1wc0g6_zrcblMeQ5A2lqMMjyspwkWR2ZHuHM0BzDbomHzPCbsC0MzKh9hJQQuiQgShxtnU2jwe90VczrS-6BlJHW_a63L9SB3tJBvzmRCsil11yxn_1CbEz1lJbeu4/s1600/IMG_2713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqXyP5MDQF5LcbO1wc0g6_zrcblMeQ5A2lqMMjyspwkWR2ZHuHM0BzDbomHzPCbsC0MzKh9hJQQuiQgShxtnU2jwe90VczrS-6BlJHW_a63L9SB3tJBvzmRCsil11yxn_1CbEz1lJbeu4/s320/IMG_2713.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_JoyFNVUy55QqwPL4qWULesriQSLBYc4xo3TF_aeHDDJmd6j5e16LjwMrAs_Yx4KFHf96tOTLmimVjVvihl_TCLnH7JZyhFjrMOQp5hgdXgu4xvoWwRDycvsKYj0BEqDTzUrYqscCMS8/s1600/IMG_2733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_JoyFNVUy55QqwPL4qWULesriQSLBYc4xo3TF_aeHDDJmd6j5e16LjwMrAs_Yx4KFHf96tOTLmimVjVvihl_TCLnH7JZyhFjrMOQp5hgdXgu4xvoWwRDycvsKYj0BEqDTzUrYqscCMS8/s320/IMG_2733.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Overall cost, not including TV or mount, was about $180 (with $100 being the drywall labor, $40 for speaker wire and the rest was electrical wire and components). <br />
<br />
Now what? Re-tiling the master bath?huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2814638520076571238.post-79531590922154581402011-01-20T19:28:00.000-05:002011-01-20T19:28:27.083-05:00Agent ZigzagI just finished "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Agent-Zigzag-Story-Espionage-Betrayal/dp/0307353419/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1295569552&sr=1-1">Agent Zigzag</a>: A True Story of Nazi Espionage, Love, and Betrayal" by Ben Macintyre. It is a fantastic book; full of richly-developed characters and amazing stories of heroes that helped shape World War II. I highly recommend it.huber57http://www.blogger.com/profile/05099076583624310657noreply@blogger.com1