Rod Woodson, Five Others, To Be Enshrined In The Pro Football Hall Of Fame

Rod Woodson played 17 seasons in the National Football League, including (the first) 10 with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

How do we remember Rod Woodson?

...A first-round draft pick in 1987, the 10th player selected overall.
...The NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1993
...A six-time first-team All-Pro choice, five times as a member of the Steelers
...A member of NFL’s 75th Anniversary Team and the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 1990s
...Third on the NFL all-time career leaders list with 71 interceptions.
...The NFL’s all-time leader in interception return yardage (1,483)
...Holder of the NFL record for most interceptions returned for Touchdowns (12)
...Member of the Professional Football Hall of Fame, Class of 2009

Woodson is remembered for being a Pittsburgh Steeler and that's how he'll go into the Professional Football Hall of Fame.

I predicted Rod Woodson and Bruce Smith would be included in the Class of 2009. While I got those two right I missed on five other picks.

I missed on Dermontti Dawson, Shannon Sharpe, Richard Dent and Chris Carter, as modern-era selections, and Seniors-Committee pick Claude Humphrey.

Joining Woodson and Smith in the Class of 2009 are Bob Hayes, who was nominated by the Seniors-Committee, Ralph Wilson Jr., Randall McDaniel and Derrick Thomas.

Kilroy_60, United States Ambassador To (The) Most Serene Republic Of San Marino?

Will Kilroy_60 become the next United States Ambassador To (The) Most Serene Republic Of San Marino?

I've sent letters, along with a Resume of Qualifications, to President of the United States Barack Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton expressing interest in that post.

An Ambassadorship is, unquestionably, the best way I can fulfill what I believe is my obligation to serve the United States of America at this critical time in our nation's history.

My family immigrated to America from Sicily. Sicily, you may know, is an autonomous region of Italy and was once an independent city-state.

The Most Serene Republic Of San Marino is a country located in the Apennine Mountains which is completely surrounded by Italy.


What you may not know is that the Most Serene Republic Of San Marino is the oldest sovereign state and constitutional republic in the world. San Marino's constitution of 1600 is the world's oldest constitution still in effect.

It is the third-smallest country in Europe and has the smallest population of all the members of the Council of Europe.

Ronald P. Spogli has served concurrently as Ambassador to Italy and Ambassador to San Marino since George W. Bush appointed him in 2006. (Embassy of the United States - Rome, Italy website)

San Marino is within the jurisdiction of the Florence consular district. Consulate officials, presently, visit San Marino on a regular basis to carry out diplomatic demarches, represent U.S. interests and administer consular services.


I have my buddy Salvatore, who resides in Sicily, looking for a suitable house in Florence. As the Ambassador to the Most Serene Republic Of San Marino I'd prefer to live in the country so Sal's also looking for a place in the City of San Marino.

Sarah Palin Begins Raising Money For White House Run In 2012

You read it here.

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin won't be leaving the big stage any time soon. In fact, she's taken the first formal step toward making a run for the White House in 2012.

It didn't come as any surprise when I received a call from Alaska last month saying that Palin was putting together a Political Action Committee and would be announcing it shortly after inauguration day.

The announcement came today, one week after President Barack Obama's first full day in office...


John McCain hadn't yet delivered his concession speech when it became clear that Palin intended to go after the top job.

She was practically in tears onstage as McCain spoke, not because the McCain/Palin ticket had gone down in flames, but because she wanted to speak at a time when she was certain that the fanatics would be tuned in.

Palin couldn't get to Georgia fast enough when it became clear a run off election would be necessary between freshman Republican Senator Saxby Chambliss and Democrat Jim Martin. Again, making a high profile appearance at the earliest possible moment ensured that her name would remain on the lips of the national press.

Launching SarahPAC now ensures that she will maintain a high profile nationally. You'll see her making appearances across the country, to speak about the issues on which she'll mount a campaign and to support candidates of a like mind.

Photograph by Kilroy_60

A Week Of Celebration In Perdido Key, Florida

Photograph by Kilroy_60

I was overcome by wanderlust leading up to the AFC championship game and the inauguration of President Barack Obama.

The Master Baiter suggested we go to Lost Key, Florida. Three calls and about eight hours later we touched down at the Pensacola Regional Airport.

Suffice to say, it's helpful having a friend whose a private pilot. I'd rather toke a joint of K60 bud and drink Flying Dog as I'm so inclined than pay $5 for a cocktail when the drink cart comes down the aisle.

TheSpecialOne, as it worked out, wasn't able to join us until late Monday night. That gave us four days for golf, fishing, poker and football.

When we arrived at Perdido Key it didn't surprise me to find that The Master Baiter has a friend, Dr. Feel Good, with a house on the water, a boat and a seemingly ever-present Cohiba Esplendido cigar.

Dr. Feel Good is a regular at the Lost Key Golf Club. It's a beautiful golf course and let me tell you, I saw the wholllllllllllle course.

The one day we didn't golf or fish, prior to TheSpecialOne's arrival, was Sunday. That day was devoted to football. At least the majority of the day; we still played poker later that night.


After the Tennessee Titans' Keith Bulluck and LenDale White stomped on The Terrible Towel toward the end of the next-to-last game of the regular season I was looking forward to seeing the Steelers return to Nashville and whoop their ass.

The Titans, though, were sitting at home last Sunday watching the Steelers and Baltimore Ravens face off for the third time this season.

No team in the NFL has won more games at home since the merger in 1970 than the Pittsburgh Steelers. Combine that home field advantage with the league's number one defense and you have Mike Tomlin going to the Super Bowl in his second season at the helm.

It was great to see Rod Woodson present the AFC championship trophy to Steelers owner Dan Rooney. Woodson will be named a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2009 the day before Super Bowl XLIII.

Once the Steelers had punched their ticket to Tampa our attention turned to Washington, D.C. and the end of George W. Bush and Dick Cheney's reign of terror.

I've been amazed at the effort being made so people will somehow believe that what we've seen of George W. Bush's Presidency has been misunderstood.


More than anything, though, the focus was on celebrating Barack Obama and Joe Biden.

Dr. Feel Good organized a party for the Inauguration. There were just over 50 people to watch Barack Obama be sworn in as the 44th President of the United States. The first guests started trickling in just before the Bidens arrived at the church and the last ones left about 12 hours later.

One of the most interesting things about inauguration day was that a few guys who voted for The Waterhead Son of Texas twice and then McRage were there to play poker after the party. It turned out to be a blood bath. The more I rattled their cage the madder they got and the more they bet.

I donated the maximum amount allowed to the Obama campaign during the general election, $2,400. When my new Republican friends left I'd won almost all that back. Shooting fish in a barrel couldn't be any easier.

Doctor Feel Good and The Master Baiter spent more time on the boat the past few days and I hung out with TheSpecialOne. It was good to get home this afternoon. I didn't even mind that it was snowing.

Photograph by Kilroy_60

Follow @Kilroy60 On Twitter

Today's Twitter Updates...




Kilroy60





TheSpecialOne. Ho Ho 2 hours ago from the web

Writing a letter to Obama inre: Ambassadorship in San Marino. 4:41 p.m. from the web

Dipping into my stash of Columbian flake. 4:15 p.m. from the web

Picking up a case of Flying Dog. 3:57 p.m. from twitterrific

Having lunch at Hooters. 1:27 p.m. from twitterrific

@WebWizard Yes, the Liberty Tower building. Suite 713. Talk to Marcia. 11:07 a.m. from twitterrific

Leaving to meet with a client who needs a new website designed. 10:32 a.m. from the web

@MasterBaiter Leaving after I burn one more. Will meet you at Hooters around 1:15. 10:09 a.m. from tweetdeck in reply to MasterBaiter

@chrisbrogan No, there was no damage from the earthquake. I'd been there about two weeks before. http://tinyurl.com8bnvw3 10:07 a.m. from tweetdeck in reply to chrisbrogan

Opening a new bottle of Johnnie Walker blue label; have to get ready for a client meeting. 8:37 a.m. from the web

Going to The Midtown Tavern for breakfast. 7:15 a.m. from the web

Smoking hash under glass. 6:30 a.m. from the web

The Campaign To Rewrite History Has Begun

It's been fascinating watching George W. Bush and his cronies beginning a campaign to rewrite history even before his term has come to an end.

History will judge his performance in office, the waterhead son of Texas says. It's not important to him whether or not he's popular. He's the decider who made the tough calls to do the right things for the country.

Once the political rancor has faded and an unbiased review of his presidency can be conducted, Bush and his cast of clowns say, he will be seen differently than he is today when three out of four Americans consider him one of the worst Presidents in history.


He stood defiantly before the White House press corps this week bristling at the assertion the federal government responded slowly in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. In the face of facts the President of the United States, broadcast live on national television, lied.

When asked about his mistakes the President resurrected a story that's been told before. Hanging a Mission Accomplished banner, he said, was a mistake. It was their intention to send one message and having the banner there sent a different message.

Somehow his saying that combat operations had ended and we were victorious escapes his memory.

You can be sure before Barack Obama is sworn in next Tuesday that Bush will grant preimptive pardons to his partners in crime. Those who could be prosecuted for actions performed on his behalf will become immune to prosecution.

George W. Bush and Dick Cheney are two self righteous turds to be flushed.

The best thing they did in eight years was to cause the balance of power to turn from Republican to Democrat in 2006 and to poison any chance his party had of making a good showing last November.

George W. Bush became a pariah in his own party.

In 2006 candidates would not be seen with him in public...even while using him to raise campaign funds behind closed doors. In the Presidential campaign John McCain stayed as far away as possible after supporting the Administration 90% of the time.

What pisses me off is that the political rancor he whines and bitches about is the product of his behavior. The atmosphere of hate that surrounds him is of his own making.

Mark my words, when history judges George W. Bush he will be seen as a worse President than any of us can imagine today. His Administration will rank as one of the greatest clusterfucks ever seen in the Western world.

I Was Correct On 10 Of 15 Picks To Be Pro Football Hall Of Fame Class Of 2009 Finalists

17 finalists remain in contention for the Professional Football Hall of Fame Class of 2009.

Included are two nominees selected by the Hall of Fame Seniors Committee, Claude Humphrey and Bob Hayes.

The remaining 15 began in a field of 133 preliminary nominees, announced in November, and have survived two cuts.

Of the 15 modern-era finalists, I selected nine from the original group of 133. They are...

Ron Woodson
Dermontti Dawson
Shannon Sharpe
Richard Dent
Russ Grimm
Bob Kuechenberg
Andre Reed
Bruce Smith
Chris Carter

Woodson, of course, played the majority of his career as a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Dawson spent his entire career in the Steel City.

When I made those original picks I missed a note that L.C. Greenwood, of the Steelers' 1970s Steel Curtain defense, is no longer eligible as a modern-era candidate. Having been retired for 15 years he now must be nominated by the Seniors Committee.

Including Greenwood, I was right on 12 of my 25 picks going into the Semi-final round.

In addition the aforementioned nine original picks I predicted Cortez Kennedy would be a finalist. That made me right on 10 of my 15 finalist picks!

The ones I missed were Lester Hayes, Charles Haley, Roger Craig, Terrell Davis and Chris Doleman.

The five who made it as finalists that I didn't pick are Randall McDaniel, John Randle, Paul Tagliabue, Derrick Thomas and Ralph Wilson.

The Board of Selectors will get together in Tampa, Florida on January 31, the day before Super Bowl XLIII, to select the Class of 2009.

In order to be elected, a finalist must receive a positive vote of at least 80 percent.

Under it's current ground rules, the Board will select a class ranging in size from four to seven.

These are my picks for the Class of 2009 to be inducted in the Professional Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio...

Ron Woodson
Dermontti Dawson
Shannon Sharpe
Richard Dent
Chris Carter
Bruce Smith
Claud Humphrey

An Unexpected Visitor

Raptors, to me, are among the most interesting creatures on the planet.

We have a Cooper's Hawk, more likely a family of hawks, that is apparently living in the neighborhood, although I haven't as of yet been able to ascertain where it nests. I've seen it in a few trees nearby, but never in The Writer's Refuge.

Yesterday I was in my office putting together a strategic plan for a product launch when I heard what sounded like a thud.

Checking the security camera monitors I didn't see anything in the direction of the street, in the driveway, on the side of the house, behind the garage or in The Writer's Refuge.

A short while later I went downstairs to refill my Royal Crown and ginger ale. Again, I heard a noise that I couldn't place.

After retrieving the 9 mm Beretta from The Writer's Nook I headed outside. It was at that point I found an unexpected visitor.


Yes, there was a Cooper's Hawk inside the screen porch. It had flown through the screen! The porch is done in heavy gauge aluminum screen so he must have been flying at high speed chasing something.


I put on a pair of gloves, went out to the porch, scooped him up and took him into the yard. He sat there for about 30 seconds looking at me, then flew up into the neighbor's tree.

He sat in the tree for the longest time, shaking his tail every now and again. I don't know what that was all about.

It was nice to have him visit, but I would have preferred he land in the tree at the back of The Writer's Refuge.

Photographs by Kilroy_60

The Stumbleversary Bash

Photograph by Kilroy_60

Since I first announced a carnival to celebrate my one-year anniversary in the stumbletron I decided to change things up a bit.

It was December 16, 2007 when I first logged in to the social media site StumbleUpon. {Check out my page.} While I find pleasure in the company of stumblers I remain a blogger who stumbles around the web.

The best way to celebrate my stumbleversary, I decided, is to recognize my stumbling friends and share what for me is one of the best social aspects of StumbleUpon, reviews of Gonzo Papers posts.

With that, I give you the...

---taylor39-> commented, "A cuppa coffee, the Gonzo papers, this man is a great read! go for it' you will like him!" on Fear and Loathing?

---allen-taylor-> commented, "Fear and loathing in a Cape Cod coffee cup with Lyle Lovett and Kilroy60. Wow! Give me cream, no sugar." on Fear and Loathing?

---mikoto1610-> commented, "Sobering look at the fragility of life and the ignorance of facts." on What Happens When Warning Sirens Sound At The Nuclear Plant Nearest To You?

---Machione-> commented, "An interesting read as to what has inspired this writer..." on The Path You Seek Leads To WOODY CREEK, COLORADO

---thewordisberry-> commented, "Always something interesting from this blogger, whether it's about culture or politics or the view from the backyard. :)" on The Path You Seek Leads To WOODY CREEK, COLORADO

---matchet-> commented, "That is a rather challenging thing to do." on ABC, Easy as 1-2-3

---nicky187-> commented, "I can't putt to save my life, but it's a nice way to get out of the house and stalk the gophers. ;)" on A Bad Day On The Golf Course Is Better Than A Good Day At Work

---Gaven-> commented, "Good article with a nice tribute attached... the author has an excellent point - all victims of 9/11 need to be acknowledged and memoralized... thank you Cinnamonrain for sharing this article...." on Never Forget; More Importantly Always Remember

---crazyred7-> commented, "'Fear and loathing? I don't think so.. "brave and caring" is more like it! Thank you Kilroy60!" on "100" ...One From The Kilroy File

---mcgroovymama-> commented, "Great blog....love the answers in this interview! check him out......" on I Was Interviewed Today...Via Email

---Ideas500-> commented, "Simply gorgeous! Wow...I never tire of the beautiful colors of the sky! Thanks for sharing! Kimberly :)" on My Most Recent Sunset Safari

---Harrystottle-> commented, "I have a similar obsession. The digital camera makes it possible and practical to take photos on a whim. I take thousands. I find dozens are actually pretty damn good. Between us all we can capture some good footage of the fragile world we live in..." on My Most Recent Sunset Safari

---MrChampion-> commented, "Kilroy's rattles off the issues - and we should reassure him that he is following events correctly and is not mistaken." on I Think I Maybe Confused

---Robyn-Moondancer-> commented, "This is friggin genius!" on Making The United States Of America's National Debt A Long Forgotten Memory

---mikoto1610-> commented, "An especially inventive way of getting the US out the cess pit it's currently in." on Making The United States Of America's National Debt A Long Forgotten Memory

---SpiralsShadeaux-> commented, "Cool ideas,... now if there are any real brains in our government, maybe a reality check could happen, and our government could start capitalize on bringing the masses to them with money for all their self-induced money woes, instead of trying to make money from it's peoples, 'Wrong doings.'" on Making The United States Of America's National Debt A Long Forgotten Memory

---mikoto1610-> commented, "This is a great blog post that shows that some of the most beautiful and amazing scenery is on our very own doorsteps." on Join Me At The Seashore

---wellmet-> commented, "Thanks for the tribute to our Iraqi War Veterans, the Iraqi War Dead, and the families, their families. Please look at these photos on Veterans day. Thanks Yobaba." on The Legacy Of George W. Bush and Dick Cheney - Section 60, Arlington National Cemetery

---Machione-> commented, "An excellent tribute to one of the true heroes of September 11th." on Celebrating The Spirit Of Joseph Vincent Vigiano - September 11 - 2,996 Tribute

---cobaltbuckeye49-> commented, "A loving tribute to a true hero. Let us not forget all who died on this fateful day." on Celebrating The Spirit Of Joseph Vincent Vigiano - September 11 - 2,996 Tribute

---sassyrojo-> commented, "Without a doubt, one of the most painfully memorable events in US history. A stunning tribute with personality." on Celebrating The Spirit Of Joseph Vincent Vigiano - September 11 - 2,996 Tribute

---nicky187-> commented, "I took mine through the airport, and all they checked was the cell phone." on Finally, I'm Going Mobile

---pseudopsycho-> commented, "Christmas is coming up. Need any ideas for gifts?" on Finally, I'm Going Mobile

---mikoto1610-> commented, "Stuck with trying to choose a suitable cell phone - try this :)" on Finally, I'm Going Mobile

---amosgoh-> commented, "Crazy idea on phones." on Finally, I'm Going Mobile

---matchet-> commented, "Awesome Blog about Iraq and 9/11." on Today Is A Day For Americans To Take A Stand

---moritherapy-> commented, "You gotta hand it to this guy - he put an enormous amount of work into this blog carnival. And HAPPY BIRTHDAY!" on A Blog Carnival That's Out Of This World! My Blogiversary Bash!!

---mikoto1610-> commented, "How a blog carnival should be run :)" on A Blog Carnival That's Out Of This World! My Blogiversary Bash!!

---nomadicmatt-> commented, "Good information on the blogging benefits of blog carnivals." on Blog Carnivals Are A Treasure Trove Of Opportunity

---mikoto1610-> commented, "For anyone that blogs, organizing or taking part in a blog carnival offers a great opportunity to both share you favourite blogs and expand your social network." on Blog Carnivals Are A Treasure Trove Of Opportunity

---Niko2008-> commented, "Being a relatively new blogger, I found this post on Blog Carnivals to be informative and definitely aided me in fully understanding the benefits and wonders of blog carnivals." on Blog Carnivals Are A Treasure Trove Of Opportunity

---allen-taylor-> commented, "Excellent job selling the idea of a blog carnival." on Blog Carnivals Are A Treasure Trove Of Opportunity

---jobmob-> commented, "Kilroy60's course of the Progressive Dinner has links about weight-loss games, casting blunders and pick up lines." on Welcome to the hors doeuvres and cocktails course of Soup To Nuts - the blogosphere's only progressive dinner blog carnival

---mikoto1610-> commented, "Excellent use of song lyrics to cover the aspects of life." on Rock & Roll Never Forgets - the Life In Song(s) meme

---nicky187-> commented, "I agree with what the author has to say, because, in my opinion, it is always easy to appeal to the baser nature of humankind, simply because it is easier to do what is gratifying, rather than what is right. Evolved beings do what is right, while those who are less evolved do what is gratifying, regardless of the cost to themselves or others." on Wisdom Of The Ages

---mikoto1610-> commented, "Is religion the same as philosophy? Does tolerance exist in religion? Excellent look at this question." on Wisdom Of The Ages

---anjamerret-> commented, "Ethics is definitely something the financial fraternity has very little of." on Thoughts On Being Successful In Business

---mikoto1610-> commented, "A fantastic list of how to truly succeed in business." on Thoughts On Being Successful In Business

---Machione-> commented, "In this political season your story reminds me of what happens when the far right and the far left end up in the same space." on It's Been A Long Time Since I Beat A Redneck Senseless

---crazyred7-> commented, "Oh, Kilroy60, you shouldn't make me laugh when I am sipping hot coffee. Spit takes are only funny when I cause them, not the other way around." on It's Been A Long Time Since I Beat A Redneck Senseless

---allen-taylor-> commented, "Ah, the value of a good education." on It's Important To Get Off On The Right Foot

---lourdes-grace-> commented, "Take the time to read this by Kilroy. Very eye opening and worthy of the read. It is time we as Americans take a stand." on Now, More Than Ever, It's Time To Make America PURPLE.

---maxismax-> commented, "Well written piece. Take a moment to read it." on Now, More Than Ever, It's Time To Make America PURPLE.

---Machione-> commented, "I've read Hey Rube and enjoyed it. The way commentary from the book is extracted to create an interview is creative and interesting." on If Dr. Gonzo Were Blogging From Owl Farm

---Jilli-> commented, "I have always been a fan of Hunter S. Thompson. For those who are fans and admired him visit The Gonzo Papers for more information on this remarkable man." on If Dr. Gonzo Were Blogging From Owl Farm

---rj2worldwide-> commented, "One of my favorite people, quite a life Hunter S led." on If Dr. Gonzo Were Blogging From Owl Farm

---Machione-> commented, "I found this to be an interesting post discussing the value of content to attract website visitors. On a related note, I suspect some tune into Project Runway just to see Heidi Klum..." on Content Is King

---Machione-> commented, "Enjoyed this post on a vegetable garden planted in containers. Especially interesting looking beyond the porch, at the black squirrel climbing a pole." on GREEN ACRES is the place to be

---shepherd101-> commented, "Kilroy60 takes a stab at Obama's VP pick" on Kathleen Sebelius To Be Named Obama Vice President

---fredhetz-> commented, "She's a solid choice, me thinks." on Kathleen Sebelius To Be Named Obama Vice President

---Robyn-Moondancer-> commented, "Kilroy is doing his homework on the political scene. I can't wait to see his pick for McCain!" on Kathleen Sebelius To Be Named Obama Vice President

---gopherguts1218-> commented, "Wonderful commentary! Brilliant work." on Kathleen Sebelius To Be Named Obama Vice President


---badbadivy-> commented, "Kilroy60 is making sense here. :D" on Kathleen Sebelius To Be Named Obama Vice President

---laffarsmith-> commented, "And insightful perspective on modern political views." on Kathleen Sebelius To Be Named Obama Vice President

---sassyrojo-> commented, "Always compelling to get another writer's take on the upcoming VP announcement. The upcoming week will reveal all, no? Great writing on the upcoming election." on Kathleen Sebelius To Be Named Obama Vice President

---Machione-> commented, "Kilroy_60 has a great original quote in this post which reads in part, 'Living in the NOW provides for more WOW.'" on The Value Of A Moment Should Never Be Under Estimated

---taylor39-> commented, "This man is a joy! straight to the heart........... A breath of fresh air.......... And he even has a little humor..." on Meg Whitman, Former Ebay CEO, Winner Of Republican Veepstakes

---Machione-> commented, "Well reasoned commentary predicting John McCain's VP choice. All too often logic doesn't play very well into politics so it will be interesting to see how things work out." on Meg Whitman, Former Ebay CEO, Winner Of Republican Veepstakes

---anjamerret-> commented, "I must say, I am looking forward to the end of the American elections." on Meg Whitman, Former Ebay CEO, Winner Of Republican Veepstakes

---sassyrojo-> commented, "Yes, just what this country needs: a VP who used to be CEO of a fee-heavy organization that now penalizes sellers more than providing the initial plan of an easy facilitation of a buyer/seller relationship. Huh - sounds like standard Republican policy!" on Meg Whitman, Former Ebay CEO, Winner Of Republican Veepstakes

---Machione-> commented, "There's an interesting narrative to be read...It takes some concentration to keep from getting distracted." on There Are Few Things In Life More Attractive Than A Beautiful Woman

---mikoto1610-> commented, "An incredibly hot post - yet nothing happens! There's a lesson to be learned here." on There Are Few Things In Life More Attractive Than A Beautiful Woman

---Robyn-Moondancer-> commented, "Great post! An 'interview' with Hunter S. Thompson. I highly recommend it!" on Hunter S. Thompson And The Death Of The American Dream

---sassyrojo-> commented, "Having associates who also worked at Cantor Fitzgerald that day, this blog is a tribute to another lost on the day that will never be the same again. Great blog - add to your RSS reader." on A Tribute To Elizabeth Claire 'Beth' Logler, One Of The 2,996 Lost In The Attacks Of September 11, 2001

---mikoto1610-> commented, "Is Sarah Palin the right choice for McCain and is she being protected from any media blitz and negative publicity? Interesting and thoughtful look at the issues really at stake in the McCain camp." on McCain Campaign Officials Give Palin High Marks While Insulating Her From Criticism And Hiding The Truth About Her From The Public

---Machione-> commented, "Sarah Palin has become the wild card in the 2008 Presidential election. It's interesting how she is being handled by the McCain campaign." on McCain Campaign Officials Give Palin High Marks While Insulating Her From Criticism And Hiding The Truth About Her From The Public

---anjamerret-> commented, "Gorgeous flowers. I also have a red rose bush (name unknown) that is still giving me flowers. What a star!" on What Better Way To Say Good-Bye To Summer?

---NerdGirl-> commented, "Unfortunately, in modern politics, men and women are not equal, and women will be judged more harshly (hopefully this will subside eventually)... in these situations one needs to channel Jackie-O and have extra class and carry oneself with dignity... not step on your opponents in stripper heels to climb the ladder up to the glass ceiling in a short pleather skirt. If you don't want to be called "pretty" then show us some substance. Or shush up, step out of the race, and pose for your conciliatory photos." on Cult Of Personality Surrounding Palin Is Seen By Campaign Officials As A Blessing, Her Record Is A Problem To Be Managed

---anjamerret-> commented, "I think you have a serious problem when you need somebody like Palin to win the battle for you." on Cult Of Personality Surrounding Palin Is Seen By Campaign Officials As A Blessing, Her Record Is A Problem To Be Managed

---nicky187-> commented, "Yeah. This is how I want other world leaders to view us. Like we're led like someone dressed like a strip club hostess, if not one of the strippers. (Apologies to all the strippers in the audience.) " on Cult Of Personality Surrounding Palin Is Seen By Campaign Officials As A Blessing, Her Record Is A Problem To Be Managed

---mcgroovymama-> commented, "NEVER should such a horrific & godawful thing as this happen to ANY human being. WAKE UP WORLD! " on Return Humanity To Darfur

---Robyn-Moondancer-> commented, "Great post, it is a shame though that it ever had to be written!" on Return Humanity To Darfur

---ettarose2002-> commented, "Billions of dollars spent to help the rich get out of trouble and we cannot help the helpless. Shame on the United States and the United Nations!" on Return Humanity To Darfur

---mikoto1610-> commented, "We can spend billions on a phony war for oil; we can pay CEO's of failing companies millions to effectively fail at their job. But we can't spend a dime on the real victims in the world? For shame, humanity..." on Return Humanity To Darfur

---novus-questus-> commented, "Yep, I have a picture of dead and dying people in my blog now. Yes, I could have just said that this site was about Darfur, but I want everyone to look at this. This is what the world is ignoring, what the world is failing to call a crime against humanity. This is genocide, and it has gone on for far to long." on Return Humanity To Darfur

---nomadicmatt-> commented, "great photos of the fall. i miss living where the leaves change" on Fall Foliage Tour 2008

---Robyn-Moondancer-> commented, "Fall is in the air and Kilroy captured a little of the color for us :)" on Fall Foliage Tour 2008

---sitasaysgo-> commented, "I would love to take a road trip with kilroy60" on Fall Foliage Tour 2008

---Ideas500-> commented, "I just don't think I'd be voting for her... I don't think she's ready now...Maybe by 2012, she will be... However, I think Obama's in for the next 8 yrs. Did you see the wide-eyes and the camaraderie at the victory party? The United States will be in love with Obama and his family as they did with JFK and his fam... Kimberly :) P.S. Awesome photos Kilroy!" on Palin Set For White House Run In 2012

---anjamerret-> commented, "Heaven help the world!" on Palin Set For White House Run In 2012

---maxismax-> commented, "I should be surprised...yet I'm not." on Palin Set For White House Run In 2012

---allen-taylor-> commented, "I'm not a bit surprised by this, but it's a good reason not to vote Republican ever again." on Palin Set For White House Run In 2012

---GetSmartGal-> commented, "She just wants to be on SNL again..." on Palin Set For White House Run In 2012

---novus-questus-> commented, "I almost took up one of the campus fliers and volunteered as a GOP intern, but my free time has been too short. As it is, I wear my original Richard Nixon pin with pride." on Volunteering For the McCain/Palin Presidential Campaign

---rodneyj43-> commented, "Now that, My friend, *is* a true gonzo Story. You should do a follow up on what the Nader-Neighbor does when he gets the phone calls and mail." on Volunteering For the McCain/Palin Presidential Campaign

---Robyn-Moondancer-> commented, "Volunteering for the right side ... and that works on every level." on Volunteering For the McCain/Palin Presidential Campaign

---demonveen-> commented, "I love the JFK idea -- it would be fun to make up a whole bunch of traditional looking JFK signs and paper a whole neighborhood." on Volunteering For the McCain/Palin Presidential Campaign

---mikoto1610-> commented, "Irony and wicked mischief are two wonderful bedmates in this great post from my buddy Kilroy :)" on Volunteering For the McCain/Palin Presidential Campaign

---jakrose-> commented, "too funny. you should have let them sign you up for canvassing a neighborhood and hit it up for Obama. still, very funny" on Volunteering For the McCain/Palin Presidential Campaign

---Machione-> commented, "Kilroy_60 was feeling mischievous so he accepted an offer to sign up to volunteer for the McCain campaign. I'm not the only one left shaking my head and laughing." on Volunteering For the McCain/Palin Presidential Campaign

---nicky187-> commented, "Gratz on the anniversary. Please keep writing like you have been. Much appreciated." on Autumn Colors And My Three-Year Blogiversary

---Canyon317-> "Great fall pic by Kilroy60. Check out his blog, which just celebrated its 3rd anniversary. " on Autumn Colors And My Three-Year Blogiversary

---NerdGirl-> commented, "Love Kilroy's gorgeous colors... HAPPY BLOGIVERSARY!" on Autumn Colors And My Three-Year Blogiversary

---eyeflare-> commented, "Great colors, and congrats on getting to three years of blogging" on Autumn Colors And My Three-Year Blogiversary

---Machione-> commented, "An interesting narrative on an attraction to Autumn color vs. Spring..." on Autumn Colors And My Three-Year Blogiversary

---CHRON-> commented, "I can almost smell the Autumn fragrances drifting through the air. The beautiful leaves on the maple tress are absolutely a gift of beauty. The silver leaf maple is my second favorite tree, next to the southern magnolia. Great photos. BTW -- Happy B-Day!" on Autumn Colors And My Three-Year Blogiversary

---AmusedOne-> commented, "Happy 3 year anniversary my friend... a well deserved congrats!" on Autumn Colors And My Three-Year Blogiversary

---anjamerret-> commented, "Wow. Those are some pictures." on Autumn Colors And My Three-Year Blogiversary

---kevinmn-> commented, "Autumn being the richest season of the year is full of beauty, especially if the turning of the leaf is soft and balanced as depicted in the photos on this page, wonderful!" on Autumn Colors And My Three-Year Blogiversary

---bygracenotmerit-> commented, "Beautiful photos of fall foliage and The Gonzo Papers three year anniversary! Happy Anniversary and here is to many more!" on Autumn Colors And My Three-Year Blogiversary

---moocowbell-> commented, "Fantastic way to celebrate a blogiversary, congrats! " on Autumn Colors And My Three-Year Blogiversary

---Robyn-Moondancer-> commented, "It is his 3rd blogiverary! Stop by and help him set a record for visitors! " on Autumn Colors And My Three-Year Blogiversary

---mikoto1610-> commented, "An introspective and highly enjoyable look at what makes us who we are online - why we blog, do we crave company or not, and more. Enjoy. :)" on The Life We Live Comes From The Choices We Make


---TheLovableRogue-> commented, "The article offers an insight into why one man chooses to blog. An interesting piece which highlights the importance of the human connection afforded by blogging." on The Life We Live Comes From The Choices We Make

---jpearce01-> commented, "What is important to you?" on The Life We Live Comes From The Choices We Make

---laffarsmith-> commented, "A blogger shares his thoughts on life and blogging. :-)" on The Life We Live Comes From The Choices We Make

---amosgoh-> commented, "A great insight on self development" on The Life We Live Comes From The Choices We Make

---michaelwong38-> commented, "karma for the rest of us...great article. thanks" on The Life We Live Comes From The Choices We Make

---GiantRiverOtter-> commented, "A blogger talks about which election bets he won, and also there is some nice artwork and a cool quote about politics from Hunter S. Thompson." on Buy The Ticket, Take The Ride

---Machione-> commented, "It was a good day to be a Democrat and a gambler..." on Buy The Ticket, Take The Ride

---novus-questus-> commented, "Gorgeous colors. Kilroy has been my go to guy for good fall pics this year." on Autumn Exultation!

---anjamerret-> commented, "Aren't they fabulous, the forests." on Autumn Exultation!

---mattgUP-> commented, "Leaf peep'n " on Autumn Exultation!

---kaolelo-> commented, "excellent photos of the glory of fall . . ." on Autumn Exultation!

---mcgroovymama-> commented, "my kind of blogger!" on A Long Weekend That Turned Into A Week, Thanks To The McCain/Palin Ticket

---QuentinsOnTheWay-> commented, "a great rambling post that manages to touch on the election (national and alaska's), golf, and general debauchery...definitely thumbs up" on A Long Weekend That Turned Into A Week, Thanks To The McCain/Palin Ticket

---amosgoh-> commented, "A great trip and experience" on A Long Weekend That Turned Into A Week, Thanks To The McCain/Palin Ticket

---sitasaysgo-> commented, "Kilroy gets a fabulous week away thanks to McCain and Palin. Dang, I wish I would have made a few bets..." on A Long Weekend That Turned Into A Week, Thanks To The McCain/Palin Ticket

---maxismax-> commented, "Kilroy's living the life of Reilly and has the pics to prove it." on A Long Weekend That Turned Into A Week, Thanks To The McCain/Palin Ticket

---vengeancenow-> commented, "Great post. I'm glad you did well off the election. The republicans can afford it :>" on A Long Weekend That Turned Into A Week, Thanks To The McCain/Palin Ticket

---QuentinsOnTheWay-> commented, "written like a true golf fanatic" on The First Snow Of The Season Marks The End Of Golf For 2008

---shepherd101-> commented, "I usually prefer to shout at people, then put my fingers in my ears and shout 'I can't hear you lalalalalalalalalalalalalalalalala!'" on Resolve To Evolve

---mattgUP-> commented, "I wish these were common sense." on Resolve To Evolve

---SpiralsShadeaux-> commented, "Clear, Concise and logical. Now the key here is to be able to initiate communication that generates this response. One's ability to communicate effectively, does not only fall within these concepts of good communication, but also the ability to inspire communication.on Resolve To Evolve

---FlavorsOfItaly-> commented, "Something for everyone to strive for!" on Resolve To Evolve

---harrystottle-> commented, "my problem's always been with number 5. Can't argue with the list though..." on Resolve To Evolve

---QuentinsOnTheWay-> commented, "in my opinoin, the first one is the most important...people who think they know what you're going to say and, instead of listening, are busy formulating their answers, are incapable of having a conversation.on Resolve To Evolve

---MrChampion-> commented, "Kilroy promotes dialectic reasoning - which is lacking completely in the main stream media, with the blogshere faring little better." on Resolve To Evolve

---kgirl77-> commented, "If only these simple skills were taught in schools or by parents... THIS is the change we really need." on Resolve To Evolve

---fredhetz-> commented, "It's a blog. It's a carnival. What more could you want?" on Help Wanted: Hosts For The Gonzo Blog Carnival Series

---yeeaauuh-> commented, "Blog Carnival coolness going down soon." on Help Wanted: Hosts For The Gonzo Blog Carnival Series

---novus-questus-> commented, "Wanna get the word out about your blog? Here's how to do it..." on Help Wanted: Hosts For The Gonzo Blog Carnival Series

---pseudopsycho-> commented, "Want to get more visitors to your blog? Check out the Blog Carnival!" on Help Wanted: Hosts For The Gonzo Blog Carnival Series

---nicky187-> commented, "I think that Kilroy60 has done something unique. He's found and promoted a talent in someone else, selflessly. The Special One has a good eye, and has composed some beautiful shots." on Photographs By TheSpecialOne

---terrie212-> commented, "Brrrrr! Love these pics from the gonzo papers Click to get the huge file. I did and now have a loverly backdrop on my desktop!" on Photographs By TheSpecialOne

---allen-taylor-> commented, "Beautiful photos of the snow." on Photographs By TheSpecialOne

---GlobalPatriot-> commented, "The quote says it all...the cycle of giving and receivership." on The Game Of Life As It Should Be Played

---Machione-> commented, "A blogger's image can be spoiled by posts like this." on The Game Of Life As It Should Be Played

---fredhetz-> commented, "Kilroy60 says a lot in a few words" on The Game Of Life As It Should Be Played

---ToeCracker-> commented, "This is why I am so into Pay It Forward." on The Game Of Life As It Should Be Played

---moocowbell-> commented, "About reaching out to help others..." on The Game Of Life As It Should Be Played

---cameronh1403-> commented, "Very good thought..." on The Game Of Life As It Should Be Played

---evaj06-> commented, "lovely image.." on The Game Of Life As It Should Be Played

---novus-questus-> commented, "Yum... Need to try this with oven-blasted cauliflower." on In Praise Of Marinades

---allen-taylor-> commented, "Hmm ... hmmm good. Makes me want to jump in a vat of vegetable oil. Emeril will be proud." on In Praise Of Marinades

---antranik-> commented, "mmmmmmmm looks delicious!" on In Praise Of Marinades

---Maxismax-> commented, "I can't believe Phil Simms didn't make the cut again. Great post and a pretty impressive 48% pick ratio from Kilroy60" on Look For A Contingent Of Black And Gold Welcoming Two Steelers To Canton In 2009

---Bloblaw-> commented, "The Hall of Fame is still kind of screwy." on Look For A Contingent Of Black And Gold Welcoming Two Steelers To Canton In 2009

---downgoesfrazier-> commented, "Tough to argue with that list, isn't it?" on Look For A Contingent Of Black And Gold Welcoming Two Steelers To Canton In 2009

---shirl420-> commented, "That is a great idea ~ I don't drink alcohol anymore as it gives me a tummy ache, but it will be nice for my friends who do :o) Thanks Kilroy!" on ...But, Then, I Drink

---dani1108-> commented, "What a neat idea!" on ...But, Then, I Drink

---tbhurst-> commented, "Big fan of the Crown and Ginger, myself. Fantastic idea to freeze the ginger ale. I'm on it." on ...But, Then, I Drink

---Bloblaw-> commented, "Okay, this is kind of brilliant -- ginger ale ice cubes + whiskey." on ...But, Then, I Drink

---JoelBittle-> commented, "This opens up all new drink possibilities" on ...But, Then, I Drink

---ideas500-> commented, "Hey, great idea Kilroy! I haven't thought of this before! Awesome tip for flavored ice cubes! Kimberly :)" on ...But, Then, I Drink

---GlobalPatriot-> commented, "Equal measures of humor and reality are present in the current trend to offer our president a new pair of shoes." on Flingin' It For Freedom

---aStorygirl-> commented, "I'm wearing boots too if you need help!" on Flingin' It For Freedom

---Machione-> commented, "People around the globe are "celebrating" the end of George W. Bush's Presidency in a unique way." on Flingin' It For Freedom

---nomadicmatt-> commented, "these shoes are for you george!" on Flingin' It For Freedom

---gruelin1-> commented, "very tacky" on Flingin' It For Freedom

---LadyCeara-> commented, "Grow up" on Flingin' It For Freedom

---charistsevis-> commented, "Politics with shoes...?" on Flingin' It For Freedom

---VengeanceNow-> commented, "There are so many kinds of shoes I'd fling at Bush. Some filled with poop." on Flingin' It For Freedom

---CHRON-> commented, "Yum! I am definately going to be making this one! That looks YUMMY!" on A Chrishanukwanztivus Celebration

---shirl420-> commented, "YUM! thanks Kilroy, great recipe :o) Happy Merry Chrishanukwanztivu to all!" on A Chrishanukwanztivus Celebration

---barrie501-> commented, "This is cool! The season of Chrishanukwanztivus according to Kilroy60." on A Chrishanukwanztivus Celebration

---GlobalPatriot-> commented, "Always cooking up something delicious for the holidays...that Gonzo is a great chef!" on A Chrishanukwanztivus Celebration

---Margir-> commented, "Ooh my goodness, thank you Kilroy for the wonderful recipe. And a happy Chrishanukwanztivus to you, too!" on A Chrishanukwanztivus Celebration

---sitasaysgo-> commented, "Almond chocolate chip, pistachio, white chocolate and cranberry biscotti made by an articulate and intriguing blogger? Have mercy!!!!" on A Chrishanukwanztivus Celebration

---allen-taylor-> commented, "This guy really ought to quit teasing me with his kitchen antics. It's not fair!" on A Chrishanukwanztivus Celebration

---Machione-> commented, "It doesn't look like there's a whole lot of Fear and Loathing at the La Alegría plantation in Costa Rica."on Happy New Year!

---shirl420-> commented, "This is Glorious! Kilroy you my friend have a beautiful place to relax. I enjoy your words every time I read you :o) 2 Thumbs up Peace buuuuudy"on Happy New Year!

---AmyVernon-> commented, "Sounds wonderful." on Happy New Year!

---timnull-> commented, "Two thumbies downwards, since you didn't invite me along!
Boo, hoo, and crocodile tears galore. ;o) Photo credit: Kilroy_60" on Happy New Year!

---allen-taylor-> commented, "This plantation in Costa Rica, La Alegría looks absolutely beautiful. I wish I'd been there." on Happy New Year!

---shirl420-> commented, "I just adore the ground ya float above Kilroy :o)" on The Year That Was

---aStorygirl-> commented, "Great collection of thoughts and meditations." on The Year That Was

---anjamerret-> commented, "A lot of effort goes into blogging." on The Year That Was

---barrie501-> commented, "This is fabulous reading. Thanks to Kilroy60 for this one." on The Year That Was

---GlobalPatriot-> commented, "Celebrating three years of blogging, Gonzo is an asset to the world of social media and a stumbler to be honored. Here's to many more years of your wisdom." on The Year That Was

Photograph by Kilroy_60

The Year That Was

Photograph by Kilroy_60

At the end of October I celebrated my three-year blogiversary.

In truth, internet time is better measured as dog years are than by a conventional calendar. I've read that people consider anywhere from one to four months on the web to be equivalent to one year.

Take into account how many blogs you find abandoned and that point of view isn't difficult to understand.

There were just short of 200 posts here in 2008, 191 to be exact. Needless to say, it's easy to lose track of what you've been blogging about, regardless of the tags assigned to each post. {Yes, that's when I remember to plug them in.}

This is the third time I've done a review of what I was blogging about over the previous year. Actually, it's more a sampling than a review. The way it's done is to pick out the first sentence of the first post that was published each month.

A rather small snippet of a large picture and yet, at the same time, very enlightening I think.

Looking back over 2008 this is what you get:

January...

The true measure of blogging success is that it's worth your time to do. - Kilroy_60

February...

I have 361 messages sitting in my Inbox.

March...

Tuesday, 4 March, voters go to the polls in Texas, Ohio, Rhode Island and Vermont.

April...

I was checking out the news at Yahoo and couldn't help but notice the advertising.

May...

I met The Master Baiter Monday morning for breakfast.

June...

I had my IT guy came in yesterday to see if he could diagnose why my machine has been running slower than normal.

July...

I really wanted to enter last time, but I missed the deadline.

August...

I received a most interesting email from TheSpecialOne.

September...

I had lunch one day at MarthaStewartLite's house with TheSpecialOne.

October...

I got back to town early Saturday morning.

November...

Professional Football Hall of Fame classes in recent years have been dominated by the Washington Redskins, Buffalo Bills, Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers.

December...

I'm celebrating my first year as a member of the social media site StumbleUpon with a blog carnival.

Happy New Year!

I couldn't think of a better way to close out 2008 than spending a week at my plantation in Costa Rica, La Alegría.

It was, I thought, a great way to celebrate the end of George W. Bush' reign of terror. Being out of the country for any portion of this month, though, when Barack Obama will be sworn in as the 44th President of the United States, was never an option.

We flew into Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose Christmas Eve morning and left there yesterday afternoon.

There was nothing I wanted to do more than relax and enjoy the fruit of my gardener's labor, a hydroponically grown hybrid we call K60 Bud.

What I enjoy most about La Alegría is, The Sanctuary....


It was here, on this balcony, where each day I read the outermost HOUSE - A Year Of Life On The Great Beach Of Cape Cod by Henry Beston.

This book is a literary masterpiece. That, I think, is reflected by these excerpts...

>>> A year indoors is a journey along a paper calendar; a year in outer nature is the accomplishment of a tremendous ritual. To share in it, one must have a knowledge of the pilgrimages of the sun, and something of that natural sense of him and feeling for him which made even the most primitive people mark the summer lights of his advance and the last December ebb of his decline." (page 59)

>>> "The three great elemental sounds in nature are the sound of rain, the sound of wind in a primeval wood, and the sound of outer ocean on a beach. I have heard them all, and of the three elemental voices, that of the ocean is the most awesome, beautiful, and varied." (page 43)

>>> "It is not easy to live alone, for man is a gregarious creature; especially in his youth, powerful instincts offer battle to such a way of life, and in utter solitude odd things may happen to the mind." (pages 93-94)

>>> "Dwelling thus upon the dunes, I lived in the midst of an abundance of natural life which manifested itself every hour of the day, and from being thus surrounded, thus enclosed within a great whirl of what one may call the life force." (page 94)

>>> "Study your birds on the ground as you will, but once you have thus observed them and studied their loveliness, do not be afraid to clap your hands and send them off into the air. They will take no real alarm and will soon forgive you. Watch birds flying." (page 98)

Downstairs I have a sitting room commonly known as The Fortress of Solitude. Looking out the window, or down from The The Sanctuary, you see a portion of the garden....


We live, undoubtedly, in interesting times. I wish for you much joy, good health and prosperity in 2009.

As much as anything I'm looking forward to President-elect Obama's inauguration, That comes 19 days from today.

Cheers!