DocWard

In a word, "WHY??????"

Maybe

Gee, this thread made me feel positively young and spry.

I will continue to keep you in my thoughts and meditations.

I smile all the time at my job. Of course, if I frowned while chewing gum like Marge, it would probably worry the vets I work with.

You beat me to it. I saw the same thing.

More just following the crowd. You know, a lemming.

Because everyone else was. In that case, even though I could sling one and carry one, I will leave the shotguns at home.

That was my first thought also. I even heard that computerized voice in my head.

Hmmm... 1911 or Browning Hi-Power and M-1 Carbine for me, along with a SxS shotgun. Friend gets whatever pistol I don't choose, along with M-1 Carbine and SxS shotgun.

It's Burrrrrrrrrrrrtttt.

Couldn't find his ass with both hands if you spotted him a pocket.

I could not agree more. This past weekend I went to my brother-in-law's funeral. It began with a mariachi band (he was native El Salvadoran, naturalized as a US citizen and loved the music). A brief service by a Catholic deacon, and eulogy given by his sons. It was one meant for those he left behind. I've given two eulogies, the first for my father-in-law, the second for my father. Both were painful for different reasons, but I believe both allowed me to heal. My father-in-law wasn't religious, so that made a difficult situation at least a little easier. My father was supposed to be eulogized by a person of his faith (Jehovah's Witness), but he couldn't make it at the last minute so I filled in, and did the best I could to make my aunt, his only living sibling who also shares his faith happy with the outcome. Somehow I did. I may have one more, assuming I outlive my brother. As for me, my wife and daughters know I want to be cremated, my ashes can be placed in the local National Cemetery if they so choose. Certainly no church service, unless they want to track down a Buddhist who can say something briefly. The one thing I have insisted upon is that everyone be told to think of at least one time they've laughed with me or because of me, and keep that laughter in their hearts and minds. I'm also good with an open bar. Guinness, Jameson's and a good single malt scotch (I'm partial to Glenfiddich) being front and center. A band wouldn't be a bad thing either. Or a DJ to play lots of my favorites, from classic rock to 80's new wave. I'm guessing most of the people will be too old to dance much, but hey, I hope they give it a try!

Artemis II is home.