Wow! This is absolutely amazing.

If any of the old, old timers are left that remember me, HOWDY!
 
It's been so long that I fear some have crossed the threshold of the hammered bracelet (the asteroid belt in current terms) and have take up residence in the outer universe. Lucky for them if they have.

You that I know from the old board and also any of you that are newer to the site leave a short message and tell me about yourselves. Don't be shy.

Since last checking in I have circumnavigated the South Pacific by sail. Completing the journey without using one ounce of fossil fuel. My carbon footprint has been nil. And upon my return here, what do I find? I find yet another systems upgrade. It's great to see some folks are still employed and stying clear of the current 6.2 percent unemployed.

I guess the best option for me now is to go ahead and mail my ballot for the November elections and get ready for my long planned trip by foot across the Gobi desert following the ancient trade route from Ankara, Turkey to the heart of China. Gee. I'm not getting any younger here at the advanced age of 60+ so I better do it now. Do you think by the time I get done with that trip this place will finally be operating up to the standards of my wife's special ed. computer systems?

I know I know … Ouch!

And... while I'm packing for the trip and before I leave I may check back in and see how much slower this site is operating.

Like they say in the Navy ... If you have nothing better to do make yourself "look busy."

Good Luck Andrew.

Bye bye ...

~OGD~

ps: Now -- I'll post this and await to see what surprises are in store. Will the fomatting be screwed up? Will it actually post? One can only try and place their message in the hands of the gods of the innertubes.