Well, it was a busy day with somebody in the shop all the time. ALL the time. Not much in sales but 9 transfers of which only 3 were not delayed. Delays? They are running right out to the maximum on time. People are getting really ticked. I don't blame them.
What has apparently happened is that the State Police made a conscious decision to cut costs and meet their budget by way of abrogating civil rights (the right to keep and bear arms) rather than cut into their money-maker, the State Troopers. Consequently the staff that vets those delayed by the computer has been cut in half while ticketing for speeding continues. Some might think I over simplify the situation but, let's put it this way. Would you be happy if the government closed churches because they didn't have enough people to review their true spirituality? Would you be happy if your right to free speech was limited because there was nobody to observe you to make certain you spoke responsibly? As it is, 1-2 THIRDS of applicants are delayed and those delays are now taking multiple days to resolve rather than a couple of hours. Of those delayed, perhaps 1/10th of one percent are actually denied but I think that would be a high figure. I don't think we had more than 3 people denied in all of last year (2011).
One interesting thing is that a regular reader of this journal/blog called the shop today because he was interested in a gun we had on Gunbroker.com and realized that I worked there. First, I hope he enjoys the gun and second, I apologize for not getting back on the phone. Sadly, my employment is for the benefit of my employer and not myself and, as noted above, we had customers all day. I am not going to mention your name but if you want to, you are free to comment.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Gun show...
Gun shows around here aren't what they used to be. I suppose that's true most places. It is especially true this time of year. It seems that the junk knife & jewelry dealers, coin and watch guys come out more so this time of year. I guess I shouldn't forget the food vendors... It is sad. The gun guys all want the beginning of hunting season prices for used rifles (which some bought to use at the beginning of hunting season and sell now) as well as best prices for some bubbafied milsurps. One good thing, for some, not so much for me, is that the ammo dealers are out in force. Lots of ammo, some hard to find stuff, on the tables.
To be honest, the best part of the show is that I met somebody I knew about every 30-40 feet of table space. Unfortunately, even this being used to stretch out my time only kept me in the building for 1½ hours. For me, that is no time at all. The highlight was one fellow who had 4 Colt Pocket Positives. I would have gotten a photo but...
This promoter doesn't want photos taken. They also don't want CHP holders to carry in the show despite the fact that this is a public venue. Both policies are their misguided reactions to "accidental" discharges at previous shows and the resulting scrutiny from news "reporters". In one case I'd believe that the individual came into the show to cause an incident and deliberately loaded and fired the gun. In another, I believe that the gun was deliberately loaded by somebody during the show before it was handed to the fellow who was holding the gun. I understand the promoter's insurance underwriter expressly made the policy a condition of insurance and insurance is required by the venue. Of course, the "reporter"s and his/her editor(s) don't know enough to correctly report the facts much less discern any nefarious activities.
Ok, enough digression. The truth is that the show was very well attended. I'm told that yesterday was extremely busy and I know that the Sunday morning crowd was well above the usual numbers, probably DOUBLE what is usually in there between 10 when they open and 12-12:30 when the church attendees start to show up. I heard that this was also true at a recent show in Raleigh. I suppose that with the election coming, a number of people are looking at the Republican candidates and starting to fear that Obama will be re-elected. This is driving sales.
To be honest, the best part of the show is that I met somebody I knew about every 30-40 feet of table space. Unfortunately, even this being used to stretch out my time only kept me in the building for 1½ hours. For me, that is no time at all. The highlight was one fellow who had 4 Colt Pocket Positives. I would have gotten a photo but...
This promoter doesn't want photos taken. They also don't want CHP holders to carry in the show despite the fact that this is a public venue. Both policies are their misguided reactions to "accidental" discharges at previous shows and the resulting scrutiny from news "reporters". In one case I'd believe that the individual came into the show to cause an incident and deliberately loaded and fired the gun. In another, I believe that the gun was deliberately loaded by somebody during the show before it was handed to the fellow who was holding the gun. I understand the promoter's insurance underwriter expressly made the policy a condition of insurance and insurance is required by the venue. Of course, the "reporter"s and his/her editor(s) don't know enough to correctly report the facts much less discern any nefarious activities.
Ok, enough digression. The truth is that the show was very well attended. I'm told that yesterday was extremely busy and I know that the Sunday morning crowd was well above the usual numbers, probably DOUBLE what is usually in there between 10 when they open and 12-12:30 when the church attendees start to show up. I heard that this was also true at a recent show in Raleigh. I suppose that with the election coming, a number of people are looking at the Republican candidates and starting to fear that Obama will be re-elected. This is driving sales.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Stuff to Hoard
I was minding my own business and got an e-mail that urged me to watch a video that would tell me the 37 essential items I should hoard. So, I watched, rather listened, to it and did a little searching on the internet as I listened. Here's what I found. A bit more than 37 items. Let me tell you, you will need many of the things listed OR at least you will come to appreciate just how luxurious those things are if you don't have them.
1. Toothpaste and Toothbrushes - clean teeth=good health
1. Toothpaste and Toothbrushes - clean teeth=good health
2. Gun Cleaning Supplies -cotton pads, Hoppe’s, Rem Oil, etc - clean guns work better
3. Duct Tape - you have to ask?
4. Cooking Oil - one of those things that might be impossible to get and hard to do without
5. Shampoo - cleanliness=good health
6. Deodorant - some might disagree
7. Laundry Detergent - clean clothing is healthier for you
8. Books or other reading for enjoyment materials - how to books are good
9. WD-40 - displaces water, limited lubrication, reduces squeaks (and silence can be golden)
10. Sewing Supplies - for repairing that which you can't replace
11. Bolts, Nails Screws - same for your house and equipment
12. Games - to pass the time
13. Paper and Pencils - to record all sorts of things
14. Spare Parts for any and all gear - if it is important enough to have it is important enough to take care of
15. Musical Instruments - to pass the time
16. Lantern Mantles - gotta have light
17. Hand Tools - the right tool makes the work better and easier
18. Broken window fix/replacement/cover (plywood or plastic panes) - you'll miss this if you don't have it
19. Bleach - not just for cleaning but also for water purification
20. Household Cleaning Supplies - clean house improves your health
21. Sponges - dittos
22. Towels and Wash clothes - have you lived without them?
23. Gold Bond or Baby Power - when you walk a lot you'll come to appreciate how they reduce friction and make life more bearable
24. Baby Supplies – diapers etc - if you've got kids
25. Aloe - an old standby for treatment of burns
26. Sunscreen - because sun poisoning can be just as bad as anything
27. Bug Spray (wearing kind) - keep 'em off of you and stay healthy
28. Bug Spray (killing kind) - defense in depth
30. Chains and Locks - keep others from your stuff
31. Isoprophyl (rubbing) alcohol - disinfect
32. Mouse Traps - mice will destroy your stuff and carry disease into your home
34. Lice Shampoo - HEALTH
35. Salt - you need it to preserve food
35. Liquor - might be a good anesthetic but will always be good trading material
37. Glasses – Prescription and OTC - you've got to be able to see
UPDATED:
38. Alcohol Wipes - disinfect and remove oil
39. Eyedrops - irrigate eyes to remove debris OR protect your eyesight
40. Pet Food - got to feed man's best friend
41. Fertilizer - for your garden not your lawn
42. Coolers - keeps things the right temp and insects on the outside
43. Buckets - useful for carrying all sorts of things and all sorts of liquids
44. Clothes Pins - might have to dry the laundry on the line
45. Childrens clothes in sizes larger than they wear
46. Superglue - for fixing more things
47. Wash board - for washing clothes
48. Spray paint in black, white, green, brown and black.
49. Zippers, buttons, snaps, knee patches, velcro - back to repairing what you can't replace
50. Patches for tents and tarps - keep the weather out of your stuff
51. Garbage bags
52. Lime - to break down wastes
53. Charcoal/lighter fluid - to start fires
54. Birth control -
55. Vitamins - maintain your health
56. Razor blades - might have to trim hair before surgery
57. Saw blades - because nothing is ever the right size
58. Garden tools - grown that food
59. Spark plugs - keep those motors running
60. Motor oil - dittos
61. Manuel Air/Tire pump - be sure you can fill
62. Bird seed to attract wild birds (food source)
63. Fire extinguishers
64. Wire
65. Q-tips
66. Cotton balls
67. Corn Starch
68. Thermal Wear
Another list:
1. Generators
(Good ones cost dearly. Gas storage, risky. Noisy…target of thieves; maintenance etc.)
(Good ones cost dearly. Gas storage, risky. Noisy…target of thieves; maintenance etc.)
4. Seasoned Firewood. Wood takes about 6 – 12 months to become dried, for home uses.
6. Coleman Fuel. Impossible to stockpile too much.
7. Guns, Ammunition, Pepper Spray, Knives, Clubs, Bats & Slingshots.
8. Can openers, & hand egg beaters, whisks, kitchen utensils.
9. Honey/Syrups/white, brown sugar
10. Rice – Beans – Wheat
11. Vegetable Oil (for cooking) Without it food burns/must be boiled etc.,)
12. Charcoal, Lighter Fluid (Will become scarce suddenly)
13. Water Containers (Urgent Item to obtain.) Any size. Small: HARD CLEAR PLASTIC ONLY – note – food grade if for drinking.
16. Propane Cylinders(Urgent: Definite shortages will occur.)
(Urgent: Definite shortages will occur.)
17. Survival Guide Book.
18. Mantles: Aladdin, Coleman, etc. (Without this item, longer-term lighting is difficult.)
19. Baby Supplies: Diapers/formula. ointments/aspirin, etc.
20. Washboards, Mop Bucket w/wringer (for Laundry)
21. Cook Stoves(Propane, Coleman & Kerosene)
(Propane, Coleman & Kerosene)
22. Vitamins
23. Propane Cylinders and Handle-Holders (Urgent: Small canister use is dangerous without this item)
24. Feminine Hygiene/Haircare/Skin products.
25. Thermal underwear (Tops & Bottoms)
27. Aluminum Foil Reg. & Heavy Duty (Great Cooking and Barter Item)
28. Gasoline Containers (Plastic & Metal)
29. Garbage Bags (Impossible To Have Too Many).
30. Toilet Paper, Kleenex, Paper Towels
31. Milk – Powdered & Condensed (Shake Liquid every 3 to 4 months)
32. Garden Seeds (Non-Hybrid) (A MUST)
33. Clothes pins/line/hangers (A MUST)
35. Tuna Fish (in oil)
36. Fire Extinguishers(or..large box of Baking Soda in every room)
(or..large box of Baking Soda in every room)
37. First aid kits
38. Batteries (all sizes…buy furthest-out for Expiration Dates)
39. Garlic, spices & vinegar, baking supplies
40. Big Dogs (and plenty of dog food)
41. Flour, yeast & salt
42. Matches. {“Strike Anywhere” preferred.) Boxed, wooden matches will go first
43. Writing paper/pads/pencils, solar calculators
44. Insulated ice chests (good for keeping items from freezing in Wintertime.)
45. Heavy Duty Work Boots, belts, Levis & durable shirts
, belts, Levis & durable shirts
46. Flashlights/LIGHTSTICKS & torches, “No. 76 Dietz” Lanterns
47. Journals, Diaries & Scrapbooks (jot down ideas, feelings, experience; Historic Times)
48. Garbage cans Plastic (great for storage, water, transporting – if with wheels)
49. Men’s Hygiene: Shampoo, Toothbrush/paste, Mouthwash/floss, nail clippers, etc
50. Cast iron cookware (sturdy, efficient)
51. Fishing supplies/tools
52. Mosquito coils/repellent, sprays/creams
53. Duct Tape
54. Tarps/stakes/twine/nails/rope/spikes
55. Candles
56. Laundry Detergent (liquid)
57. Backpacks, Duffel Bags
58. Garden tools & supplies
59. Scissors, fabrics & sewing supplies
60. Canned Fruits, Veggies, Soups, stews, etc.
61. Bleach (plain, NOT scented: 4 to 6% sodium hypochlorite)
62. Canning supplies, (Jars/lids/wax)
64. Bicycles…Tires/tubes/pumps/chains, etc
65. Sleeping Bags& blankets/pillows/mats
& blankets/pillows/mats
66. Carbon Monoxide Alarm (battery powered)
67. Board Games, Cards, Dice
68. d-con Rat poison, MOUSE PRUFE II, Roach Killer
69. Mousetraps, Ant traps & cockroach magnets
70. Paper plates/cups/utensils (stock up, folks)
71. Baby wipes, oils, waterless & Antibacterial soap (saves a lot of water)
72. Rain gear, rubberized boots, etc.
73. Shaving supplies (razors & creams, talc, after shave)
74. Hand pumps & siphons (for water and for fuels)
75. Soysauce, vinegar, bullions/gravy/soupbase
76. Reading glasses
77. Chocolate/Cocoa/Tang/Punch (water enhancers)
78. “Survival-in-a-Can”
79. Woolen clothing: socks, scarves/ear-muffs/mittens
80. Boy Scout Handbook, / also Leaders Catalog
81. Roll-on Window Insulation Kit (MANCO)
82. Graham crackers, saltines, pretzels, Trail mix/Jerky
83. Popcorn, Peanut Butter, Nuts
84. Socks, Underwear, T-shirts, etc. (extras)
85. Lumber (all types)
86. Wagons & utility carts (for transport to and from)
87. Cots & Inflatable mattress’s
88. Gloves: Work/warming/gardening, etc.
89. Lantern Hangers
90. Screen Patches, glue, nails, screws, nuts & bolts
91. Teas
92. Coffee
93. Cigarettes
94. Wine/Liquors (for bribes, medicinal, etc,)
95. Paraffin Wax
96. Chickens
97. Chewing gum/candies
98. Atomizers (for cooling/bathing)
99. Hats & cotton neckerchiefs
100. Livestock
Yet another list:
1. Toilet Paper
, and other sanitation items such as feminine hygiene products, diapers for infants, etc. These are items that should be mass stored if possible.
, and other sanitation items such as feminine hygiene products, diapers for infants, etc. These are items that should be mass stored if possible.
2. Paper Towels
. Too many uses to mention, store as many as you can.
. Too many uses to mention, store as many as you can.
3. Coffee Filters
. For those drinkers of coffee of course, but these are excellent filters for many other purposes.
. For those drinkers of coffee of course, but these are excellent filters for many other purposes.
4. Trash Bags
. All sizes. You can also store many free plastic grocery bags from the store every time you get them after shopping. Important for bagging up refuse and preventing disease.
. All sizes. You can also store many free plastic grocery bags from the store every time you get them after shopping. Important for bagging up refuse and preventing disease.
5. Zip type Freezer Bags
. Lot of uses.
. Lot of uses.
6. Coolers
, various sizes. If you have room, can be used to keep things cool or cold, but also used to keep items from freezing in very cold weather.
, various sizes. If you have room, can be used to keep things cool or cold, but also used to keep items from freezing in very cold weather.
7. Shovels
. All sizes from small garden type to those used for digging. Very important to have after a disaster.
. All sizes from small garden type to those used for digging. Very important to have after a disaster.
8. Soaps and Cleansers. Sponges and other scratchy pads. You are likely not going to have a dishwasher after a disaster and you have to have some means of cleaning pots, pans, dishes.
and Cleansers. Sponges and other scratchy pads. You are likely not going to have a dishwasher after a disaster and you have to have some means of cleaning pots, pans, dishes.
9. Cotton Rounds
. First aid uses, Excellent Fire-starter (mixed with Vaseline).
. First aid uses, Excellent Fire-starter (mixed with Vaseline).
10. Paper to write on. This includes note pads, index cards.
to write on. This includes note pads, index cards.
12. Rubber bands. This also includes hair bands. Used to keep items organized and from flying apart.
. This also includes hair bands. Used to keep items organized and from flying apart.
13. Tape. All kinds from duct, masking, electric, to scotch. Many uses.
. All kinds from duct, masking, electric, to scotch. Many uses.
14. Sewing Kits. Threads, needles, buttons, zippers, you are going to need them.
. Threads, needles, buttons, zippers, you are going to need them.
15. Matches. Keep them dry and store lots of them.
. Keep them dry and store lots of them.
16. Salt
. You won’t believe in certain areas how hard it is to get this necessary mineral for survival. Store as much as you can.
. You won’t believe in certain areas how hard it is to get this necessary mineral for survival. Store as much as you can.
17. Aluminum Foil Wrap
. Good for cooking and many other uses.
. Good for cooking and many other uses.
18. Candles. All sizes. Not only for light at night, but can be used to heat small items up in small cookware.
. All sizes. Not only for light at night, but can be used to heat small items up in small cookware.
19. Can Opener. Without many of these you will have a bad time trying to get your canned food out.
. Without many of these you will have a bad time trying to get your canned food out.
20. Basic Tools. This includes hammers, screwdrivers, saws, axes, utility knives, scissors. Anything extra that you can store from your
tool chest.
21. Handyman’s Hardware Assortment
. Assortment of screws, nuts and bolts, wire, nails, etc. Store in clear jars with lids or in original packages.
. Assortment of screws, nuts and bolts, wire, nails, etc. Store in clear jars with lids or in original packages.
22. 5-Gallon Gas Can Containers
. These can be used for gas or other fuels as well as for water that are durable. Obviously, never use for drinking water if they’ve ever been used for gas!
. These can be used for gas or other fuels as well as for water that are durable. Obviously, never use for drinking water if they’ve ever been used for gas!
23. Round Magnifying Glass
. Use to see small items (optical glass is best), or to start a fire if matches are wet or out of them.
. Use to see small items (optical glass is best), or to start a fire if matches are wet or out of them.
24. Envelopes
. All sizes for storage. Smaller for seeds you can get from the wild as one example. Tough postal envelopes are also good for storage after a disaster.
. All sizes for storage. Smaller for seeds you can get from the wild as one example. Tough postal envelopes are also good for storage after a disaster.
25. Boxes
. You are really going to need this if you have to suddenly move somewhere quick for clothes and other items. Many grocery stores will give you free fruit boxes that are sturdy and have lids. Also large plastic boxes with lids.
. You are really going to need this if you have to suddenly move somewhere quick for clothes and other items. Many grocery stores will give you free fruit boxes that are sturdy and have lids. Also large plastic boxes with lids.
26. Shoe Laces
. Many people have shoes that are still wearable and need shoe laces. Shoe laces are also good for tying off material with other purposes.
. Many people have shoes that are still wearable and need shoe laces. Shoe laces are also good for tying off material with other purposes.
27. Paper plates
, plastic eating utensils
, disposable drinking cups
. IF you can store enough, excellent way to save your soap supplies by not having to wash the dishes.
, plastic eating utensils, disposable drinking cups. IF you can store enough, excellent way to save your soap supplies by not having to wash the dishes.
28. Bedding. Blankets, sheets, pillows, pillow cases. Just because you are in emergency does not mean you have to live like a refuge.
29. Bathroom towels. All sizes from hand to bath. You will be very grateful to be able to dry yourself off with something you are use to.
30. Fishing line and string. Lots of uses.
31. Nylon rope, cord, clothes lines. Do not be without.
32. Dental needs. Toothbrushes, dental floss. Even without toothpaste you can still keep your teeth healthy.
33. Q-tips. Not only personal use, but uses for fine detailed work.
34. Honey. Lasts practically forever and a good sweetener for many foods.
35. Spray bottles. Use to disperse insect repellent as one of many uses.
36. First aid kit. Most items such as bandages, gauze, tweezers, nail clippers, scissors, wrapping tape, etc. can be stored without rotating.
37. Newspaper. Yes, newspaper for starting fires, wrapping delicate items, insulation. Keep dry and preferably in sealed boxes.
38. Safety pins. Fastening of almost anything that has broken. Bobby pins also good.
39. Cheap plastic sunglasses. You will really need to protect your eyes after an emergency, glare is something that people forget about
if they have to be outdoors for extended periods of time.
40. Hats. One size fits all baseball type caps, scarfs, ski caps. A lot of heat is lost through an uncovered head, also sunburn.
41. Gloves. So important from keeping hands warm to protection of your hands from hazards such as broken glass.
42. Extra clothes that you will not wear other than after a disaster. Don’t forget the extra comfortable shoes, socks, underwear, warm
jackets.
43. Small hand held mirrors. For signaling but also for personal grooming and seeing what your eyes can’t without a mirror.
44. Cloth grocery bags with handles. A very good way of collecting usable things such as food from the wild.
45. Stapler with plenty of staples. Also paper clips to seal off small items and fastening paper. Your package of survival seeds as for
example.
46. Electric extension cords. You may actually still have electricity from some source such as a generator. Can be used as a substitute for light duty style rope also.
47. Brushes. From nail, paint, to hair brushes. One good use for a hair brush is removal of ticks, fleas, burrs, from clothing.
48. Measurement devices. Tape measurers, rulers, very important to know distances, how big, how small something is rather than guessing.
49. Games. Boredom is awful, and a simple deck of cards, boardgames, something to take up time if confined after an emergency.
50. Books, Books. Anything that will give you information and instructions on survival, cooking, plant identification, map books. Your bookcase may not be around after a disaster, store information you will need someday.
51. Wind up clocks and watches. Your battery operate clocks and watches or other time telling instruments are someday not going to
work. Wind up clock better than using a sundial.
52. Snap top plastic containers. Ziploc, Tupperware, anything that can air seal something. All sizes.
53. Stick on notes. Use to label what you have after the disaster. Secure it better with scotch tape if you want.
54. Money. If you can store it somewhere and forget about it and not spend it other then in emergency. Cash money may be the only way to buy anything after a disaster that has not taken out the monetary system.
55. Plastic tarps. Many sizes and inexpensive. Cannot emphasize how many uses these have, and can be folded up and stored in smaller spaces.
FEMA's recommendations:
Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Survival Kit:
- Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
- Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
- Local maps
- Cell phone with chargers
Additional Items to Consider Adding to a Survival Kit:
- Prescription medications and glasses
- Infant formula and diapers
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container
- Cash or traveler’s checks and change
- Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
- Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.
- Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
- Fire Extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
And this:
100 Items to Disappear First
1. Generators (Good ones cost dearly. Gas storage, risky. Noisy...target of thieves; maintenance etc.)
2. Water Filters/Purifiers
3. Portable Toilets
4. Seasoned Firewood. Wood takes about 6 - 12 months to become dried, for home uses.
5. Lamp Oil, Wicks, Lamps (First Choice: Buy CLEAR oil. If scarce, stockpile ANY!)
6. Coleman Fuel. Impossible to stockpile too much.
7. Guns, Ammunition, Pepper Spray, Knives, Clubs, Bats & Slingshots.
8. Hand-can openers, & hand egg beaters, whisks.
9. Honey/Syrups/white, brown sugar
10. Rice - Beans - Wheat
11. Vegetable Oil (for cooking) Without it food burns/must be boiled etc.,)
12. Charcoal, Lighter Fluid (Will become scarce suddenly)
13. Water Containers (Urgent Item to obtain.) Any size. Small: HARD CLEAR PLASTIC ONLY - note - food grade if for drinking.
14. Mini Heater head (Propane) (Without this item, propane won't heat a room.)
15. Grain Grinder (Non-electric)
16. Propane Cylinders (Urgent: Definite shortages will occur.
17. Survival Guide Book.
18. Mantles: Aladdin, Coleman, etc. (Without this item, longer-term lighting is difficult.)
19. Baby Supplies: Diapers/formula. ointments/aspirin, etc.
20. Washboards, Mop Bucket w/wringer (for Laundry)
21. Cook stoves (Propane, Coleman & Kerosene)
22. Vitamins
23. Propane Cylinder Handle-Holder (Urgent: Small canister use is dangerous without this item)
24. Feminine Hygiene/Haircare/Skin products.
25. Thermal underwear (Tops & Bottoms)
26. Bow saws, axes and hatchets, Wedges (also, honing oil)
27. Aluminum Foil Reg. & Heavy Duty (Great Cooking and Barter Item)
28. Gasoline Containers (Plastic & Metal)
29. Garbage Bags (Impossible To Have Too Many).
30. Toilet Paper, Kleenex, Paper Towels
31. Milk - Powdered & Condensed (Shake Liquid every 3 to 4 months)
32. Garden Seeds (Non-Hybrid) (A MUST)
33. Clothes pins/line/hangers (A MUST)
34. Coleman's Pump Repair Kit
35. Tuna Fish (in oil)
36. Fire Extinguishers (or..large box of Baking Soda in every room)
37. First aid kits
38. Batteries (all sizes...buy furthest-out for Expiration Dates)
39. Garlic, spices & vinegar, baking supplies
40. Big Dogs (and plenty of dog food)
41. Flour, yeast & salt
42. Matches. {"Strike Anywhere" preferred.) Boxed, wooden matches will go first
43. Writing paper/pads/pencils, solar calculators
44. Insulated ice chests (good for keeping items from freezing in Wintertime.)
45. Work boots, belts, Levis & durable shirts
46. Flashlights/LIGHTSTICKS & torches, "No. 76 Dietz" Lanterns
47. Journals, Diaries & Scrapbooks (jot down ideas, feelings, experience; Historic Times)
48. Garbage cans Plastic (great for storage, water, transporting - if with wheels)
49. Men's Hygiene: Shampoo, Toothbrush/paste, Mouthwash/floss, nail clippers, etc
50. Cast iron cookware (sturdy, efficient)
51. Fishing supplies/tools
52. Mosquito coils/repellent, sprays/creams
53. Duct Tape
54. Tarps/stakes/twine/nails/rope/spikes
55. Candles
56. Laundry Detergent (liquid)
57. Backpacks, Duffel Bags
58. Garden tools & supplies
59. Scissors, fabrics & sewing supplies
60. Canned Fruits, Veggies, Soups, stews, etc.
61. Bleach (plain, NOT scented: 4 to 6% sodium hypochlorite)
62. Canning supplies, (Jars/lids/wax)
63. Knives & Sharpening tools: files, stones, steel
64. Bicycles...Tires/tubes/pumps/chains, etc
65. Sleeping Bags & blankets/pillows/mats
66. Carbon Monoxide Alarm (battery powered)
67. Board Games, Cards, Dice
68. d-con Rat poison, MOUSE PRUFE II, Roach Killer
69. Mousetraps, Ant traps & cockroach magnets
70. Paper plates/cups/utensils (stock up, folks)
71. Baby wipes, oils, waterless & Antibacterial soap (saves a lot of water)
72. Rain gear, rubberized boots, etc.
73. Shaving supplies (razors & creams, talc, after shave)
74. Hand pumps & siphons (for water and for fuels)
75. Soy sauce, vinegar, bullions/gravy/soup base
76. Reading glasses
77. Chocolate/Cocoa/Tang/Punch (water enhancers)
78. "Survival-in-a-Can"
79. Woolen clothing, scarves/ear-muffs/mittens
80. Boy Scout Handbook, / also Leaders Catalog
81. Roll-on Window Insulation Kit (MANCO)
82. Graham crackers, saltines, pretzels, Trail mix/Jerky
83. Popcorn, Peanut Butter, Nuts
84. Socks, Underwear, T-shirts, etc. (extras)
85. Lumber (all types)
86. Wagons & carts (for transport to and from)
87. Cots & Inflatable mattress's
88. Gloves: Work/warming/gardening, etc.
89. Lantern Hangers
90. Screen Patches, glue, nails, screws,, nuts & bolts
91. Teas
92. Coffee
93. Cigarettes
94. Wine/Liquors (for bribes, medicinal, etc,)
95. Paraffin wax
96. Glue, nails, nuts, bolts, screws, etc.
97. Chewing gum/candies
98. Atomizers (for cooling/bathing)
99. Hats & cotton neckerchiefs
100. Goats/chickens
From a Sarajevo War Survivor:
Experiencing horrible things that can happen in a war - death of parents and friends, hunger and malnutrition, endless freezing cold, fear, sniper attacks.
1. Stockpiling helps. but you never no how long trouble will last, so locate near renewable food sources.
2. Living near a well with a manual pump is like being in Eden.
3. After awhile, even gold can lose its luster. But there is no luxury in war quite like toilet paper. Its surplus value is greater than gold's.
4. If you had to go without one utility, lose electricity - it's the easiest to do without (unless you're in a very nice climate with no need for heat.)
5. Canned foods are awesome, especially if their contents are tasty without heating. One of the best things to stockpile is canned gravy - it makes a lot of the dry unappetizing things you find to eat in war somewhat edible. Only needs enough heat to "warm", not to cook. It's cheap too, especially if you buy it in bulk.
6. Bring some books - escapist ones like romance or mysteries become more valuable as the war continues. Sure, it's great to have a lot of survival guides, but you'll figure most of that out on your own anyway - trust me, you'll have a lot of time on your hands.
7. The feeling that you're human can fade pretty fast. I can't tell you how many people I knew who would have traded a much needed meal for just a little bit of toothpaste, rouge, soap or cologne. Not much point in fighting if you have to lose your humanity. These things are morale-builders like nothing else.
8. Slow burning candles and matches, matches, matches
So, why do the people think they need to make such lists? Because we live in a world changing from what we know at a rate as well as in ways that cause us to sweat and periodically fall to our knees in fervent prayer for forgiveness. We see the good world we know ending and we want to hold to it. I'm sure the Britannic Romans felt much the same way. We had such a good life. It is going to crap and, apparently, there is nothing we can do about it. But, we can make lists. We can hoard our luxuries. Maybe we can stave off the wolves another 4 years.
1. Generators (Good ones cost dearly. Gas storage, risky. Noisy...target of thieves; maintenance etc.)
2. Water Filters/Purifiers
3. Portable Toilets
4. Seasoned Firewood. Wood takes about 6 - 12 months to become dried, for home uses.
5. Lamp Oil, Wicks, Lamps (First Choice: Buy CLEAR oil. If scarce, stockpile ANY!)
6. Coleman Fuel. Impossible to stockpile too much.
7. Guns, Ammunition, Pepper Spray, Knives, Clubs, Bats & Slingshots.
8. Hand-can openers, & hand egg beaters, whisks.
9. Honey/Syrups/white, brown sugar
10. Rice - Beans - Wheat
11. Vegetable Oil (for cooking) Without it food burns/must be boiled etc.,)
12. Charcoal, Lighter Fluid (Will become scarce suddenly)
13. Water Containers (Urgent Item to obtain.) Any size. Small: HARD CLEAR PLASTIC ONLY - note - food grade if for drinking.
14. Mini Heater head (Propane) (Without this item, propane won't heat a room.)
15. Grain Grinder (Non-electric)
16. Propane Cylinders (Urgent: Definite shortages will occur.
17. Survival Guide Book.
18. Mantles: Aladdin, Coleman, etc. (Without this item, longer-term lighting is difficult.)
19. Baby Supplies: Diapers/formula. ointments/aspirin, etc.
20. Washboards, Mop Bucket w/wringer (for Laundry)
21. Cook stoves (Propane, Coleman & Kerosene)
22. Vitamins
23. Propane Cylinder Handle-Holder (Urgent: Small canister use is dangerous without this item)
24. Feminine Hygiene/Haircare/Skin products.
25. Thermal underwear (Tops & Bottoms)
26. Bow saws, axes and hatchets, Wedges (also, honing oil)
27. Aluminum Foil Reg. & Heavy Duty (Great Cooking and Barter Item)
28. Gasoline Containers (Plastic & Metal)
29. Garbage Bags (Impossible To Have Too Many).
30. Toilet Paper, Kleenex, Paper Towels
31. Milk - Powdered & Condensed (Shake Liquid every 3 to 4 months)
32. Garden Seeds (Non-Hybrid) (A MUST)
33. Clothes pins/line/hangers (A MUST)
34. Coleman's Pump Repair Kit
35. Tuna Fish (in oil)
36. Fire Extinguishers (or..large box of Baking Soda in every room)
37. First aid kits
38. Batteries (all sizes...buy furthest-out for Expiration Dates)
39. Garlic, spices & vinegar, baking supplies
40. Big Dogs (and plenty of dog food)
41. Flour, yeast & salt
42. Matches. {"Strike Anywhere" preferred.) Boxed, wooden matches will go first
43. Writing paper/pads/pencils, solar calculators
44. Insulated ice chests (good for keeping items from freezing in Wintertime.)
45. Work boots, belts, Levis & durable shirts
46. Flashlights/LIGHTSTICKS & torches, "No. 76 Dietz" Lanterns
47. Journals, Diaries & Scrapbooks (jot down ideas, feelings, experience; Historic Times)
48. Garbage cans Plastic (great for storage, water, transporting - if with wheels)
49. Men's Hygiene: Shampoo, Toothbrush/paste, Mouthwash/floss, nail clippers, etc
50. Cast iron cookware (sturdy, efficient)
51. Fishing supplies/tools
52. Mosquito coils/repellent, sprays/creams
53. Duct Tape
54. Tarps/stakes/twine/nails/rope/spikes
55. Candles
56. Laundry Detergent (liquid)
57. Backpacks, Duffel Bags
58. Garden tools & supplies
59. Scissors, fabrics & sewing supplies
60. Canned Fruits, Veggies, Soups, stews, etc.
61. Bleach (plain, NOT scented: 4 to 6% sodium hypochlorite)
62. Canning supplies, (Jars/lids/wax)
63. Knives & Sharpening tools: files, stones, steel
64. Bicycles...Tires/tubes/pumps/chains, etc
65. Sleeping Bags & blankets/pillows/mats
66. Carbon Monoxide Alarm (battery powered)
67. Board Games, Cards, Dice
68. d-con Rat poison, MOUSE PRUFE II, Roach Killer
69. Mousetraps, Ant traps & cockroach magnets
70. Paper plates/cups/utensils (stock up, folks)
71. Baby wipes, oils, waterless & Antibacterial soap (saves a lot of water)
72. Rain gear, rubberized boots, etc.
73. Shaving supplies (razors & creams, talc, after shave)
74. Hand pumps & siphons (for water and for fuels)
75. Soy sauce, vinegar, bullions/gravy/soup base
76. Reading glasses
77. Chocolate/Cocoa/Tang/Punch (water enhancers)
78. "Survival-in-a-Can"
79. Woolen clothing, scarves/ear-muffs/mittens
80. Boy Scout Handbook, / also Leaders Catalog
81. Roll-on Window Insulation Kit (MANCO)
82. Graham crackers, saltines, pretzels, Trail mix/Jerky
83. Popcorn, Peanut Butter, Nuts
84. Socks, Underwear, T-shirts, etc. (extras)
85. Lumber (all types)
86. Wagons & carts (for transport to and from)
87. Cots & Inflatable mattress's
88. Gloves: Work/warming/gardening, etc.
89. Lantern Hangers
90. Screen Patches, glue, nails, screws,, nuts & bolts
91. Teas
92. Coffee
93. Cigarettes
94. Wine/Liquors (for bribes, medicinal, etc,)
95. Paraffin wax
96. Glue, nails, nuts, bolts, screws, etc.
97. Chewing gum/candies
98. Atomizers (for cooling/bathing)
99. Hats & cotton neckerchiefs
100. Goats/chickens
From a Sarajevo War Survivor:
Experiencing horrible things that can happen in a war - death of parents and friends, hunger and malnutrition, endless freezing cold, fear, sniper attacks.
1. Stockpiling helps. but you never no how long trouble will last, so locate near renewable food sources.
2. Living near a well with a manual pump is like being in Eden.
3. After awhile, even gold can lose its luster. But there is no luxury in war quite like toilet paper. Its surplus value is greater than gold's.
4. If you had to go without one utility, lose electricity - it's the easiest to do without (unless you're in a very nice climate with no need for heat.)
5. Canned foods are awesome, especially if their contents are tasty without heating. One of the best things to stockpile is canned gravy - it makes a lot of the dry unappetizing things you find to eat in war somewhat edible. Only needs enough heat to "warm", not to cook. It's cheap too, especially if you buy it in bulk.
6. Bring some books - escapist ones like romance or mysteries become more valuable as the war continues. Sure, it's great to have a lot of survival guides, but you'll figure most of that out on your own anyway - trust me, you'll have a lot of time on your hands.
7. The feeling that you're human can fade pretty fast. I can't tell you how many people I knew who would have traded a much needed meal for just a little bit of toothpaste, rouge, soap or cologne. Not much point in fighting if you have to lose your humanity. These things are morale-builders like nothing else.
8. Slow burning candles and matches, matches, matches
So, why do the people think they need to make such lists? Because we live in a world changing from what we know at a rate as well as in ways that cause us to sweat and periodically fall to our knees in fervent prayer for forgiveness. We see the good world we know ending and we want to hold to it. I'm sure the Britannic Romans felt much the same way. We had such a good life. It is going to crap and, apparently, there is nothing we can do about it. But, we can make lists. We can hoard our luxuries. Maybe we can stave off the wolves another 4 years.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
On the range... (by way of Hoot Gibson)
A cowboy named Bud was overseeing his herd in a remote mountainous
pasture in Montana when suddenly a brand-new BMW advanced toward him out
of a cloud of dust.
The driver, a young man in a Brioni suit, Gucci shoes, RayBan sunglasses and YSL tie, leaned out the window and asked the cowboy, "If I tell you exactly how many cows and calves you have in your herd, will you give me a calf?"
Bud looks at the man, who obviously is a yuppie, then looks at his peacefully grazing herd and calmly answers, "Sure, why not?"
The yuppie parks his car, whips out his Dell notebook computer, connects it to his Cingular RAZR V3 cell phone, and surfs to a NASA page on the Internet, where he calls up a GPS satellite to get an exact fix on his location which he then feeds to another NASA satellite that scans the area in an ultra-high-resolution photo.
The young man then opens the digital photo in Adobe Photoshop and exports it to an image processing facility in Hamburg, Germany ....
Within seconds, he receives an email on his Palm Pilot that the image has been processed and the data stored. He then accesses an MS-SQL database through an ODBC connected Excel spreadsheet with email on his Blackberry and, after a few minutes, receives a response.
Finally, he prints out a full-color, 150-page report on his hi-tech, miniaturized HP LaserJet printer, turns to the cowboy and says, "You have exactly 1,586 cows and calves."
"That's right. Well, I guess you can take one of my calves," says Bud.
He watches the young man select one of the animals and looks on with amusement as the young man stuffs it into the trunk of his car.
Then Bud says to the young man, "Hey, if I can tell you exactly what your business is, will you give me back my calf?"
The young man thinks about it for a second and then says, "Okay, why not?"
"You're a Congressman for the U.S. Government.", says Bud.
"Wow! That's correct,", says the yuppie, "but how did you guess that?"
"No guessing required.", answered the cowboy. "You showed up here even though nobody called you; you want to get paid for an answer I already knew, to a question I never asked. You used millions of dollars worth of equipment trying to show me how much smarter than me you are; and you don't know a thing about how working people make a living - or about cows, for that matter. This is a herd of sheep. Now give me back my dog."
The driver, a young man in a Brioni suit, Gucci shoes, RayBan sunglasses and YSL tie, leaned out the window and asked the cowboy, "If I tell you exactly how many cows and calves you have in your herd, will you give me a calf?"
Bud looks at the man, who obviously is a yuppie, then looks at his peacefully grazing herd and calmly answers, "Sure, why not?"
The yuppie parks his car, whips out his Dell notebook computer, connects it to his Cingular RAZR V3 cell phone, and surfs to a NASA page on the Internet, where he calls up a GPS satellite to get an exact fix on his location which he then feeds to another NASA satellite that scans the area in an ultra-high-resolution photo.
The young man then opens the digital photo in Adobe Photoshop and exports it to an image processing facility in Hamburg, Germany ....
Within seconds, he receives an email on his Palm Pilot that the image has been processed and the data stored. He then accesses an MS-SQL database through an ODBC connected Excel spreadsheet with email on his Blackberry and, after a few minutes, receives a response.
Finally, he prints out a full-color, 150-page report on his hi-tech, miniaturized HP LaserJet printer, turns to the cowboy and says, "You have exactly 1,586 cows and calves."
"That's right. Well, I guess you can take one of my calves," says Bud.
He watches the young man select one of the animals and looks on with amusement as the young man stuffs it into the trunk of his car.
Then Bud says to the young man, "Hey, if I can tell you exactly what your business is, will you give me back my calf?"
The young man thinks about it for a second and then says, "Okay, why not?"
"You're a Congressman for the U.S. Government.", says Bud.
"Wow! That's correct,", says the yuppie, "but how did you guess that?"
"No guessing required.", answered the cowboy. "You showed up here even though nobody called you; you want to get paid for an answer I already knew, to a question I never asked. You used millions of dollars worth of equipment trying to show me how much smarter than me you are; and you don't know a thing about how working people make a living - or about cows, for that matter. This is a herd of sheep. Now give me back my dog."
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Notes from the gun shop...
Moderately busy today with mostly the regular stool sitters in attendance and the boss man gone to Texas to a show, the work day passed quickly. However, the only notable guns were a pair of AYA doubles, apparently unfired, in their leather case for only $8000. A deal, as the guns sold new for over $11,000.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Two years ago today....
...Nana and I stood next to my mother when she passed from this world to the next. She was a great person and we miss her. I can only hope that our children will miss us half as much as I miss my parents and my in-laws.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Just an update...
Not much shooting lately as we've been preoccupied with work on the back porch. The deck had gotten very bad in a couple of places. There was no rail as we'd taken down the trellis in anticipation of work on the porch. We've had to work around weather (rain) and cold and the normal interruptions. Now I'm at work and the contractor should be back at work this morning.
In my spare time I've been trying to resolve some questions and problems I have with certain family "lines" in the genealogical record. One of those was with brothers Ephraim and Adam Parslow and their sons, David Harmon Parslow and Harmon H. Parslow (respectively). Some researchers have concluded that these two cousins are the same person, which they are not. I'm not quite sure where this started but that's the case. In the 1860 census, one can see that Ephraim, Adam and another brother, Abram, are neighbors in Middleburgh, Schoharie County, New York and to whom each of the children belongs. The census also shows that their father and mother (previously recorded as dead prior to this date) are living with Abram. It also shows that Abram is some 34 years younger than previously reported, I think. I don't want to do what others have done and confuse those of different generations but with the same name so I'm going to carefully continue this research.
I have also been researching current generations of Parslows in the United States. Some are in fact descendants of Henry (Henrik) Parslow of Ulster County, New York (b. abt 1740) but many others are descendants of other, later immigrant Parslows. Some of these families are large and spread out over the country. Some are confused by multiple marriages and not even fully aware of half-siblings. However, many/most of us seem to be related at some point prior to immigration. It will probably be left to somebody else to resolve that as it is quite a job just to keep up with living Parslows and Parslow descendants.
That brings us to another subject, the volatility of the modern American family. For the genealogist, this is a problem. There are several families where the Parslow parent has "gone missing" because there is no apparent link between even the parent and the children as well as no link between the two parents. The extent of this problem is such that, in one case, I was contacted by a Parslow descendent looking for her father's half-siblings. Apparently, he wasn't certain that any children resulted from his father's last marriage. That means that he and his siblings must not have had any contact with his father since about 1950 (in this instance) OR that they would not speak of it to their own children.
In one case, this volatility began about 3 generations ago with the father leaving one wife and marrying another woman. The first wife had to go live with her parents, and later remarried. However, this began, in the gentleman's first family a pattern of multiple marriages for both the men and women regardless of the number of children. In one branch this devolved into actual criminal behavior ranging from assaults and theft to drug dealing. After 3 generations we now see the family "turning around" and becoming law-abiding citizens and attaining great success in certain corporations.
This isn't quite what I expected. When I was growing up the family mantra was that there weren't many of us, we weren't anyplace but upstate New York and we were generally farmers or low level government functionaries. Every Parslow I knew was a Republican and Protestant and I was once told that there probably weren't over 50 living Parslows in the whole world. That is hardly true. While there are pockets of Parslows, family members live just about everywhere in the English speaking world. I think that I can account for about 300-350 living Parslows (by that name and spelling) just in the United States. A quick search of the internet shows that States with the most people named "Parslow" are:
1. New York (136)
2. Massachusetts (81)
3. Florida (49)
4. California (48)
5. Utah (33)
Political beliefs run the gamut from hard-core socialist to libertarian. We have artists, engineers, linguists, doctors, lawyers, laborers, musicians, and even farmers. Many have their own businesses. Many have a college education. While there are born-again, evangelical/charismatic Christians there are also a large group of Mormons, Episcopalians, Catholics and atheists. I think that there is a Wiccan or two out there as well.
In other words, Parslows are just like other families, as one would expect.
Of course, I do all this research at home, using the internet. When I was a kid and my Aunt Virginia and distant-cousin Henry were doing their genealogical research there was no internet, no electronic social media (except for party lines for telephones!), and more isolation. Some would be surprised as to how much information is out there just floating around in "the cloud". For the researcher it sure beats the time and expense of actually traveling to the records archives and physically having to read every page of multiple census and other documents. It also saves the time in laborious recording of that data. Where Aunt Virginia must have worn out many pencils and filled notebooks with scribbling all my data is recorded in bits and bytes. Henry's book "Who the Heck are We" was an immense effort which can be nearly matched by me, now, with the click of my mouse and entering a bit of credit card info.
I don't think that Nana quite understands why I do this. I'm not sure that I do either. I have to admit that finding hidden history on the family gives me a great sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. Every time I find out about somebody who passed with no family left to remember them, to record their lives, I feel good about that. My research has also been a source of pride in the accomplishments of family members and particularly direct ancestors. If only I had known about my Great-Great-Great-Grandfather William Hathaway Van Cott's involvement in baseball before I sold his 1853 (?) book on the history and rules of cricket (Somebody got a treasure there.) for Mom. Maybe that could be reason enough, but I don't think it is.
I have also been researching current generations of Parslows in the United States. Some are in fact descendants of Henry (Henrik) Parslow of Ulster County, New York (b. abt 1740) but many others are descendants of other, later immigrant Parslows. Some of these families are large and spread out over the country. Some are confused by multiple marriages and not even fully aware of half-siblings. However, many/most of us seem to be related at some point prior to immigration. It will probably be left to somebody else to resolve that as it is quite a job just to keep up with living Parslows and Parslow descendants.
That brings us to another subject, the volatility of the modern American family. For the genealogist, this is a problem. There are several families where the Parslow parent has "gone missing" because there is no apparent link between even the parent and the children as well as no link between the two parents. The extent of this problem is such that, in one case, I was contacted by a Parslow descendent looking for her father's half-siblings. Apparently, he wasn't certain that any children resulted from his father's last marriage. That means that he and his siblings must not have had any contact with his father since about 1950 (in this instance) OR that they would not speak of it to their own children.
In one case, this volatility began about 3 generations ago with the father leaving one wife and marrying another woman. The first wife had to go live with her parents, and later remarried. However, this began, in the gentleman's first family a pattern of multiple marriages for both the men and women regardless of the number of children. In one branch this devolved into actual criminal behavior ranging from assaults and theft to drug dealing. After 3 generations we now see the family "turning around" and becoming law-abiding citizens and attaining great success in certain corporations.
This isn't quite what I expected. When I was growing up the family mantra was that there weren't many of us, we weren't anyplace but upstate New York and we were generally farmers or low level government functionaries. Every Parslow I knew was a Republican and Protestant and I was once told that there probably weren't over 50 living Parslows in the whole world. That is hardly true. While there are pockets of Parslows, family members live just about everywhere in the English speaking world. I think that I can account for about 300-350 living Parslows (by that name and spelling) just in the United States. A quick search of the internet shows that States with the most people named "Parslow" are:
1. New York (136)
2. Massachusetts (81)
3. Florida (49)
4. California (48)
5. Utah (33)
Political beliefs run the gamut from hard-core socialist to libertarian. We have artists, engineers, linguists, doctors, lawyers, laborers, musicians, and even farmers. Many have their own businesses. Many have a college education. While there are born-again, evangelical/charismatic Christians there are also a large group of Mormons, Episcopalians, Catholics and atheists. I think that there is a Wiccan or two out there as well.
In other words, Parslows are just like other families, as one would expect.
Of course, I do all this research at home, using the internet. When I was a kid and my Aunt Virginia and distant-cousin Henry were doing their genealogical research there was no internet, no electronic social media (except for party lines for telephones!), and more isolation. Some would be surprised as to how much information is out there just floating around in "the cloud". For the researcher it sure beats the time and expense of actually traveling to the records archives and physically having to read every page of multiple census and other documents. It also saves the time in laborious recording of that data. Where Aunt Virginia must have worn out many pencils and filled notebooks with scribbling all my data is recorded in bits and bytes. Henry's book "Who the Heck are We" was an immense effort which can be nearly matched by me, now, with the click of my mouse and entering a bit of credit card info.
I don't think that Nana quite understands why I do this. I'm not sure that I do either. I have to admit that finding hidden history on the family gives me a great sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. Every time I find out about somebody who passed with no family left to remember them, to record their lives, I feel good about that. My research has also been a source of pride in the accomplishments of family members and particularly direct ancestors. If only I had known about my Great-Great-Great-Grandfather William Hathaway Van Cott's involvement in baseball before I sold his 1853 (?) book on the history and rules of cricket (Somebody got a treasure there.) for Mom. Maybe that could be reason enough, but I don't think it is.