Novo's Golf Adventures: Trust But Verify

Novo's Golf Adventures: Trust But Verify:   Ok, here's a funny story for you... Every new golf season I take my own advice and get the loft and lies checked on my forged Mizuno i...

Novo's Golf Adventures: Ramblings Of An Old Golfer

Novo's Golf Adventures: Ramblings Of An Old Golfer:  Have you ever questioned why you play the game of golf? I have, especially now that have officially become a senior golfer. I have this imp...

Novo's Golf Adventures: Purchased With Skepticism - My New Launch Monitor

Novo's Golf Adventures: Purchased With Skepticism - My New Launch Monitor:  Well, I finally did it! I bought myself a new launch monitor. The reason is simple, I needed something to train with. It seems that the old...

Novo's Golf Adventures: An Affordable Laser Range Finder

Novo's Golf Adventures: An Affordable Laser Range Finder:   Well, I finally found what I was looking for - An affordable golf laser range finder and I think I've fallen in love with it! I've...

Novo's Golf Adventures: Novo's Golf Adventures: Review of the Top Flite Ga...

Novo's Golf Adventures: Novo's Golf Adventures: Review of the Top Flite Ga...: Novo's Golf Adventures: Review of the Top Flite Gamer Golf Ball : The Top Flite Gamer golf ball is marketed to provide a good distance w...

Novo's Golf Adventures: The Stress-Free Golf Swing - Excerpt I Want To S...

Novo's Golf Adventures: The Stress-Free Golf Swing - Excerpt I Want To S...: Here is a small sample from The Stress-Free Golf Swing... First I want you to imagine... - Swinging without a million and one swing tho...

Novo's Golf Adventures: Do You Know How Far Your Clubs Carry?

Novo's Golf Adventures: Do You Know How Far Your Clubs Carry?: Knowing how far your clubs carry may sound trivial, but it could make a difference in your game! Have you ever watched a tournament on ...

Novo's Golf Adventures: Reflections on a Golf Season! Where to begin? 202...

Novo's Golf Adventures:  Reflections on a Golf Season! Where to begin? 202...:   Reflections on a Golf Season! Where to begin? 2020 was a difficult year for us all  - Covid 19 bashed many a dream. The plans that were ma...

Novo's Golf Adventures: The Golf Swing

Novo's Golf Adventures: The Golf Swing: The golf swing. It's probably the most analyzed, dissected and debated movement of any sport. One person likes Tiger Woods' swi...

Novo's Golf Adventures: Stop Trying To Hole Putts!

Novo's Golf Adventures: Stop Trying To Hole Putts!: - Do This Instead... Stop trying to hole putts. Isn't that what you're meant to do? Well, yes and no. When you're putting y...

Novo's Golf Adventures: Do Muscle-back Irons Have Relevance Today?

Novo's Golf Adventures: Do Muscle-back Irons Have Relevance Today?: Although my gamer irons have the name Mizuno affixed to them, they are not bladed muscle-back irons. While still a forged iron, my Mizuno&#3...

Overcoming The Grief Of Losing A Pet...

Well, I'm finally coping well with the loss of Lucy. It took me almost two and a half years to finally come to grips with her loss. For a while, I didn't even realize I was grieving... My mood changed, it was almost impossible to write anything other than for work. I found myself not wanting to do the things I used to do. I was truly attached to my friend and companion Lucy. There was something missing and I just didn't want to admit that losing a pet can devastate you!

Part of my recovery process came from an online book that I found in an advertisement online. It talked about how it was ok to grieve over the loss of a pet. It provided me with some coping techniques as well. I found that I was dealing with many of the myths that pet owners have when coping with their loss and how to overcome these myths. And most of all, the book showed me how to move on and accept another pet into my life.

If you have lost a pet recently, I highly recommend that you give this author's book a try. You'll have instant access to the book and you may find that it can help in your healing process... If you are interested in the book please click here.

“Depression could surely be described as quicksand. It is a natural reaction and justified by the nature of your loss. But if you feel the symptoms of depression taking hold of you to the extent that they interfere with your day-to-day life, you need to make every possible effort to break out of it before it becomes a trap.”

– Moira Anderson Allen, M.Ed.
Coping with Sorrow on the Loss of Your Pet

The readings and coping techniques I found in this simple book have allowed me to move forward. 

I now have a new pet, "Robert the Bruce" an eighty-pound Chocholate LaB. Bruce hasn't replaced Lucy, he has guided me past the loss, however. I have found that it is ok to love another pet. Let me change "pet" to a new "family member." And best of all we are starting new adventures, together! And yes, Lucy is still in my heart and memories forever! 

Questions and Answers - continued

Part 3

The Test Drive

Jason jumped into the driver's seat and the couple assumed their places in the vehicle. John got into the front passenger position and Sarah sat in the right rear seat position with her oversized handbag. They proceeded out of the dealership and up the street to the change out the point that Jason used on every test drive. As usual, while driving Jason discussed a few of the features and benefits of the new BMW - and it appeared to him the couple seemed to be very attentive. He thought to himself that this is going to be a great test drive and perhaps an easy sell!

Pulling into the change out area, Jason was once again prepared to demonstrate more features of the vehicle that his clients had said they were interested in during there first meeting. After butterflying the vehicle (a form of opening up the vehicle for inspection including all the doors, trunk and hood) and going over the items - Jason asked the couple who would like to drive first? With agreement amongst the couple, John said that Sarah should be the one to drive first. With this agreement, Jason closed up the vehicle and instructed Sarah and John to take the front driver and passenger positions and he would get in the rear seat. Sarah was very careful to hand her handbag to John, electing not to leave it in the rear passenger seat. 

Jason went over his normal test drive area, pointing out that he preprogrammed the Navigation system with the route. The couple then asked if they could take the vehicle on a longer route to make sure that the vehicle was right for them. Jason took a pause, then stated it was ok, but he needed to be back at the dealership in about an hour for another appointment. Jason really didn't have another appointment, but he didn't want to be on a test drive forever either. The couple said no problem, they just wanted to try the vehicle out on the highway as well as a bit of city driving. And off they went... 

The couple headed toward the freeway. 

Once established on the freeway, Jason notice that Sarah was a very capable driver. The car just seems to fit her in every way. It's like the car was a part of her with the way she drove. After a few miles, John turned to Sarah and said, we want to get off at the next exit. Jason didn't think much about it, he was beginning to enjoy the different route and watching Sarah drive. 

The group exited at the next exit and proceeded to a parking lot. Jason thought to himself that Sarah was now ready to turn the car over to John. This couldn't be further from reality. 

Pulling into the parking lot, John opened the handbag that Sarah had given to him to hold for her. A moment later John revealed a modest-looking handgun, it looked to be a small .380 pistol. John turned to Jason and stated that if he did exactly what he was told, all would go well for him. Next, John pulled a harness out of the bag. Pulling into a parking spot, John turned once again to Jason and stated - this is for you, please put it on. Jason immediately asked - "what's going on?" John replied, don't worry, everything is going to be ok if you just do just what you are told. With some reserve and a bit of fear, Jason did as he was told and began to put the harness on. 

As he was placing the apparatus on he noticed that there was a rather large package enveloped in canvass attached to it. Jason was starting to get very nervous as things were starting to become very clear to him. My life is about to get very interesting, he thought to himself. How do I get out of this situation?   

To be continued in Part 4, Question and Answers... "Reality Sets In"

What to write?

Well, it's been over a year since I've posted into this blog. Since we lost Lucy last year it has been tough for me to write anything constructive here. Especially, with the title and main theme beginning with a dear friend as the title character of the blog.
I want to continue to write to this blog and honor my old friend's memory, but should I and what should I write about?

When Lucy was still with us, she would sit by my side while I would hammer away at the keyboard. Without her here, it feels strange! I could post almost any topic that popped in my head while she was here. I guess I still miss her company! Every boy needs a dog and as my wife often reminded me - I was definitely Lucy's boy to take care of...

In the past, I felt free to post short stories and excerpts from projects that I was working on, perhaps this is the way to go with this blog? I'm not sure? But I would like to continue the blog!  Additionally, I would like to retain the title... I trust that this would be acceptable as well? These are just some of the things that are running around in my head at the moment.

If anyone still follows Lucy the White Boxer Dog, I would greatly appreciate your input.

Thanks!

Today at 2:07 this afternoon, Mountain Daylight Time, Lucy the White Boxer Dog entered doggie heaven. As a tribute to Lucy, I must say that she was the kindest and most gentle companion anyone could wish for! She was an old spirit.

There was never a car ride that she would turn down and no hike in the hills was ever to big for her! She was my friend and she will be missed more than anyone will ever know!

Lucy was with Terri and I for 12 and 1/2 years... A gift from our daughter Lauren. In some ways, I attribute Lucy with bringing Terri and I even closer together. She was always there for both of us. Thank you, Lucy, for finding us!

Lucy, I trust that you are chasing every rabbit in heaven at this very moment! You deserve it girl... Thank you for demonstrating to me how to live and die with dignity. Pals forever from your humbled and flawed human! You will be missed! Love you beyond belief...

Your resting place at the starting point of the trail is a tribute to you and a reminder to us that we were lucky to have you in our lives. I pray that we will meet again in the great unknown... Goodbye for now and rest in peace!

Question and Answers - Continued

Part 2

The Appointment 

2:00 pm came and went… Jason thought that he had been stood up on the appointment when suddenly his phone rang. Hello this is Jason, how may I help you? The voice on the other end of the line came back - hi, Jason, this is John Ramsey. I’m running a bit late. I’ll be there in about thirty minutes. Will you have the car ready when I get there? I’m looking forward to seeing and driving it.  Yes, I’ll be here responded, Jason. The car is parked in front of the dealership and is ready to go. Thank you for calling and letting me know that you are running late.

Jason prepared himself for the appointment, he even went out to the car to make sure there was gas for the test drive and also reassured himself that the car was looking its best. This just may be a great day, after all, Jason thought. 

It was 3:45 pm when the black sedan pulled into the parking lot. A tall dark-haired man in a black suit wearing sunglasses emerged from the driver’s side of the car. A moment later the most striking tall redheaded woman exited the passengers' side. They walked up to the dealership entry together and upon entering the building the man stated that they were here to see a salesman by the name of Jason. 

The desk manager instantly got on the intercom and announced that Jason’s customer had arrived.

Jason was up on his feet in a flash. Upon leaving the bullpen, Jason made an examination of his appearance and readied himself to deal with his appointment.

Rounding the corner Jason first saw the tall man with the sunglasses. Hi said Jason, I’m assuming that you are John Ramsey. Yes, and you must be Jason, the man started putting out his hand to shake Jason's. I’m sorry about the late arrival but I had to stop and pick up my wife Sarah. That’s OK stated Jason. Hi Sarah, Jason said with a smile – it is nice to meet both of you. The woman smiled but did not say anything. 

I have the car parked right out front and ready to go. Both of you will want to see and drive the vehicle, it’s a real beauty of sports car. Step this way Jason said with a smile. The man and woman followed Jason out of the building.

Exiting the building Jason noticed how strikingly handsome the couple were together. He also noticed that the woman was carrying a rather oversized lady’s bag.  Would you like to leave your bag inside the building Jason asked her, no one will bother your stuff. She instantly responded with no, I think it must come with me. OK, said Jason.

The couple walked around the vehicle displaying an interest in all that Jason had to say during his demonstration. The usual questions and answers were being relayed back and forth between the salesman and the customers. Finally, Jason asserted, let’s take her out for a test drive. The couple instantly smiled and said okay. I’ll have to drive the car off the lot and then we’ll switch out drivers Jason said, the couple nodded in agreement. Let me get a dealer tag and we’ll be on our way. Oh and one more thing, I’ll need a copy of your driver’s licenses. The man’s expression dimmed for a moment.

Why do you need a copy of my licenses, don’t you trust me, he asks? It’s company policy, that’s all Jason stated. Just in case we get in an accident or you guys decide to kidnap me or something, the company will have a record of whom I’m with on the test drive Jason said with a smile.  The man’s expression lighted and he opened his wallet and produced a temporary license. We just moved out to California about three weeks ago the man said. Oh, that’s OK said Jason; this will work while examining the temp license. Just one of those boxes I have to check off if you know what I mean... and Jason left to get the tag. 

Returning to the couple with the dealer tag in hand, Jason was now ready for the demonstration ride and the adventure that awaited him. 

Coming Soon!

Part 3

The Test Drive

Questions and Answers

A Short Story

"Questions and Answers"

By

Bob Novotney

Part 1

Jason the now 57-year-old car salesman pondered his situation quietly as he gazed out the window of the car dealership. How did it come to be that he was here? What bad deed did he do that brought him to this point in his life? Was God punishing him?  Or, was it something else?

I have always been a top performer in everything that I have ever attempted in my life, he thought to himself.  Is this what remains available to me for the remaining eight thousand days I have left on earth?  Am I to make my living based on the buying and selling of others Am I being served a slice of humble pie for taking the life that I have lived for granted?  These were just a few of the thoughts running through Jason’s mind.

While having sold cars to work his way through college, Jason knew that this was not what he had planned for his life.  Life had come full circle he thought to himself. What was once old and out of mind had become new and unfamiliar.

Suddenly, a gentle voice came out of nowhere interrupting Jason’s thoughts. What’s up partner? Jason turned to find his deskmate and friend Carole was there, greeting him with a warm smile. So how are things going today, she said?  Oh, hi there. Things are going okay I guess was the response that he gave while holding back his true feeling. I’m just trying to figure out how I’m going to get a car out today.  In his mind, he was really thinking about how and why he had been downsized out the job that he really loved a few months ago.

Things are kind of slow today, he said. I’ve called all of my prospects but I don’t really have anything cooking at the moment. How’s your day going? Carole replied with I’m having a great day! I have two appointments set and it looks like I’m building some momentum today. That’s great Jason replied. Go get em’ tiger!  Then his desk phone rings.

Hello, this is Jason, how may I help you today? The voice on the other end of the conversation sounded deep and dark. Yes, hi, this is John Ramsey and I am doing some research. Oh, said Jason, how may I assist? Yes, I’m looking for a new BMW 325i the voice came back saying. Well, you’ve picked a great time to be interested in a new BMW, Jason replied. What specific questions do you have about the 325i?

My main question is what is the price on the 325i convertible you have listed online equipped with the full navigation package the voice said. Is the navigation package something that must be on the car Jason asked? Yes, the voice answered back. Well, you are lucky; we have a convertible version in stock. What’s your favorite color Jason asked automatically?  Well, I prefer red the voice answered. Great, we have exactly what you are looking for. When can you come in to take a test drive Jason asked? I’ll be down at your place in about an hour, will you be available the voice answered?  Yes, do you need directions to our locations Jason answered? No, I know where you are located and besides, I have a GPS. Great! Jason responded. I’ll see at 2:00 o’clock then, but just in case I miss you what is your cell number?  My number is 555-2314 with a Memphis area code of 901. I’ll see you at 2:00 pm the voice stated. Great, I’ll see you then Jason stated and hung up the phone.

Wow, Jason thought, maybe today will be a better day after all.  Keeping busy and selling a new car will certainly keep my mind off of past glories and indiscretions.   I’d better get the red Beemer ready for a test drive.  Let’s see, what was that stock number again?

A Short Story

A Successful Landing

by Bob Novotney

The command was “Eject – Eject - Eject!”

It seemed like an eternity after pulling the handles for the ejection seat to fire. Time slows when you’re having fun the pilot thought to himself! Watching with great interest, the pilot observed his feet drawn in by the stirrups and the seat slammed back. The canopy that was once protecting him from the elements disappeared from view. Suddenly the force of twenty-one G’s pressed him to his seat as the blast of the veneer rocket sent him upward and away from the aircraft. This is a once in a lifetime ride; I’d better make the best of it the pilot thought.

Everything was working as advertised in training.

Although traveling at more than 350 knots at the time of the ejection, he had hardly noticed the violence of the windblast or the loss of his flight helmet. Even with the distraction of the loss of his helmet, his training took over.

Once kicked free of the ejection seat, he started the routine taught to every pilot who finds themselves in the situation after getting a good chute. The routine came automatically – Canopy, visor, four-line and finally, prepare for landing.

At the end of every flight, there is a landing. In this case - a parachute landing! The PLF (parachute landing fall) as known to many), is designed to reduce the shock of hitting the ground. It distributes the load of impact to multiple points of the body. 

In reality, most pilots look at the termination of a flight in this situation as having two possible outcomes. You can make a PLF or you can make a PFL (poor f*@king landing). The real difference here is, the PLF is taught in training, the PFL is how you should not accomplish the task, as something always manages to get your attention when you come to a full stop. 

The C-9 canopy (parachute) is not noted to be the most maneuverable parachute in the world and today was no exception. While the pilot did not attempt to steer the chute at first, some rather rough looking terrain was coming up fast.  Trees and fence posts are not the most desirable of landing areas! 

Turning the chute into the wind, the now first time parachutist managed to miss the trees but hit the fence line at about twenty miles per hour. The sudden stop was not the most welcomed of outcomes but the pilot realized that he was alive on the ground.

It is kind of funny how the human body works. You can sometimes suffer some rather significant injuries and still function in a rather normal capacity. Adrenaline and survival instincts are hardwired into each of us and today was no exception.

The pilot actually completed his post-landing checklist by detaching himself from the parachute by releasing the quick disconnects on the harness. He also took stock of where he dropped the seat kit that was attached to him while coming down. The seat kit holds some rather important items – a radio, food, water and in this case a rather useless one-man life raft. Basic stuff when you think about it, but even in a peacetime training environment these simple items may make the difference between living and dying.

Taking stock of his location, the young pilot realized that he had two options - He could go get the seat kit and use the radio to call Rescue or he could walk over to the nearby farmhouse and try to use the phone to call the base and have someone come get him. Since it didn’t appear that he was hurt, he elected to do both.  But first, he needed something to drink.

He felt as if he had cotton in his mouth and he could feel some of the effects of shock starting to take hold of his body. And then there was this streak of pain in the lower back that was starting to take over his conscious being. After retrieving the seat kit, the young pilot decided that it was time to take a seat and let everything from this point forward come to him.

Finding a cool place to sit, the pilot began to reflect on what brought him to this point in time…

So, you want to become an Air Force Pilot! The odds are not with you the recruiter told the new recruit. Only about two out of two thousand that apply actually make it to a flying position. But since you are transferring over from the Marine PLC program you may have a shot at getting a flying slot with us. But you’ve really got to want to succeed to fly airplanes in the military.

These words were to hold true in the coming months.

The real truth of the matter is, the military has to have use for you, i.e. want you! There are only so many flying slots to go around. It helps if you graduate from the Air Force Academy, but even this is no guarantee of successful completion of pilot training. Some very bright and accomplished students have washed out of pilot training and some not so bright and underachievers have gone on to fly some rather great aircraft. The only thing that holds true is that if the Air Force wants and needs you and you have the desire and discipline to stick with it, you’ll succeed the recruiter went on to say.

This sounds like a “Catch Twenty Two” the recruit thought to himself. School was always easy to him he thought. There will be no problem with graduating from college and flight-training academics should be no problem as well. After experiencing Marine Corps basic training, anything the Air Force could throw at him physically should be a breeze he thought. With nothing but positive thoughts of how he would succeed at this challenge, he was ready to sign up!

Awaking from his thoughts of the past, the young pilot could hear the sound of rescue vehicles in the distance along with the sounds of rotor noise from a helicopter coming toward his position. He readied his survival radio and made the call. “Rescue, Rescue, Rescue - This is Mustang three-two, I’m on the ground and ok.” My location is in a field next to a fence line about three-quarters of a mile west of a farmhouse just off of what I think is Highway 50.  Ready to pop smoke to mark my location.