knightfan26917

You are welcome, Mike! Anytime in the spring/summer/fall months, once I get 'em out, you are more than welcome to come by for a look! As for the pics of the Charger with the various MCs, in each one that I posted here, those MCs are owned by friends of mine. Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Never knowing where these roads are going" __ Zero Ground __ 'Twenty and Something'

* A new year is HERE! What are you anticipating? I'm expecting these milestones... ...throughout the year = nephew time ...01/06/2012 = 9th anniversary of my 3rd open heart surgery, the same day I return to work following my 4th OHS ...March = 25th anniversary of my 2nd OHS ...June = 20 years since my HS graduation ...July = 148K miles on my '72 MC ...September = My 9th "major" & well-documented road trip, my 12th "major" road trip overall ...September = My last birthday of my 30s ...November = 35th anniversary of my original OHS ...November = over 160K miles on my 1979 Caprice Classic ...November = 195K miles on my '81 MC SC ...November = 175K miles on my '87 MC LS ...December = 25th anniversary of my original best friend's death ...throughout the year = (hopefully) radio shows Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Take a ride, look around" __ Jason Aldean __ 'Tattoos On This Town'

Ohhhh....gorgeous pictures, Dave. Now I want to go back to Oregon and Washington, but I'll be heading east this year. Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "I want to see the world before I die" __ Dan Seals __ 'Big Wheels In The Moonlight'

Certainly hope so! I still chuckle when I think of that. For me, one of the best stories of the opposite of that situation ... is meeting Bob Waldmire at Laurel's Afton Station during my Route 66 trip, September 2009. I wanted to meet Bob, but figured I wouldn't, since several people had told me was on his way to IL. So, when Laurel's face suddenly lit up when she looked out the window and announced that Bob had arrived, I was thrilled! Sounds like a plan, Mike! I'll probably post my TENTATIVE/proposed 2012 road trip in the next couple weeks. Nothing wrong ... saw it perfectly! That is a GORGEOUS '72 MC ... wow. Congratulations!!!! Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "All the places I have yet to go" __ Luce __ 'Good Day'

LOL! Not busy at all, I tell ya..... I'm not sure, really. Just try to live as full as I can. Heh ... in some ways, I don't feel like I did much at all this year, if that makes sense..... I appreciate you noting this, Dave. I've let the station know, as you weren't the only one to experience this, but they tell me that it is not an issue on their end. So, I'm not sure. I do know that this is the first time that several people have told me about this. All other broadcasts (except one ... where NOBODY heard it because of a transmission issue at the station) have been heard by everyone with no issues reported. So, not sure. I do apologize. Hopefully the playlist I posted gave you an idea of what I played.... The Natchez Trace is one that I need to do yet, too. Not sure I'll get to it in 2012, but ya never know, I suppose! Since you were on US 20, you drove right through my home town ... Elgin IL. Wish I had known; it'd be great to meet you along your travels. I did a 9,000 mile trip, too, as you can see from the pics in my first post ... just went a few different places than you! *grins* Not a difficult decision for me ... the 1972 Monte Carlo, of course! Do you have any pics of your newly-acquired '72 MC, by chance? Sounds like a great story, Dave, when you can. Thoughts/prayers for your family member.... Denny ... don't forget your stop in Amarillo TX ... the SAME night I was there on my road trip. "So close, yet so far away" ... dangit! Someday I hope we meet! * 2011 IN PICTURES February Blizzard: April Meet'n'Greet, including my 1979 Caprice Classic: June-July Road Trip, Oklahoma City OK, rental 2011 Dodge Charger w/3rd gen MC: June-July Road Trip, Medford OR, rental 2011 Dodge Charger w/4th gen MC: June-July Road Trip, Portland OR, rental 2011 Dodge Charger w/2nd gen MC: June-July Road Trip, Seattle WA, rental 2011 Dodge Charger w/1st gen MC: June-July Road Trip, Sycamore IL: July Cruise Nights: November Nephew Time: December Decorations, w/my 2011 Dodge Charger HW model: Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Can you believe what a year it's been?" __ Savage Garden __ 'I Don't Know You Anymore'

* PRIOR RADIO SHOW PLAYLIST/COMMENTS... ...April 2006: http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/radioshows/200604.html'>http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/radioshows/200604.html ...April 2007: http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/radioshows/200704.html ...January 2008: http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/radioshows/200801.html ...December 2009: http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/radioshows/200912.html ...March 2010: http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/radioshows/201003.html Hoping to get my regular CD SHOWCASE back on the radio at some point, either with WRMN, or perhaps, WSDI...: https://www.facebook.com/pages/WSDI-Chicago/105488346201285 Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Maybe next year I'll give it to someone special" __ WHAM! __ 'Last Christmas'

HAPPY NEW YEAR, Becky! And, to everyone! Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "You can say there's no such thing as Santa" __ Elmo'N'Patsy __ 'Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer'

* HOLY COW! A "heart"felt THANK YOU from me to ALL who listened &/or... ...Emailed me ...wrote on my FB wall ...commented/replied to statuses/posts ...wrote on WRMN's FB Wall ... scroll down through it: https://www.facebook.com/pages/WRMN-Radio/147178015304898 I hope you enjoyed the radio show as much as I had a blast broadcasting it! From the Emails, posts & comments, a great number of you did. It's amazing how people's words/actions affect how you feel. After my Christmas Eve radio broadcast Saturday afternoon, I had rather low energy. But, seeing all of the posts & Emails about my radio show ... & talking to people at the Christmas Eve service, along with a short drive to see Holiday decorations ... really re-energized me. I wish I could be on the radio AND on road trips 24/7/365...! LISTENERS MENTIONED ON AIR Kelly ... TX Derek ... central IL Scott ... MI Steve ... OH Kim ... NJ Laurel ... Afton Station OK, Rt 66 Chris ... Kingman AZ, Rt 66 Mary ... MO Katrina ... VA Dawn ... Crystal Lake IL Mary ... WA Brian ... GA Harveys ... Greensburg PA Cathy ... central IL Uncle Joe/Aunt Verna ... PA Dad & Mom ... IL relatives ... MN Mel ... NY Traci ... upstate NY Paul, mcss ... CA Allan ... FL JMD ... AZ Steve ... NY Tony ... NJ Ross ... OH Mike ... Mesa AZ Randy ... MO WickedRides Members ... NJ Anthony ... Byron IL Niki ... TX Greg ... Bakersfield CA Aunt Chris/Uncle Carl/Ben/Brenda/family ... IL Ken & Liz ... FL Dennis & Kay ... Pleasant Prairie WI Gina ... OH Phil ... IN Facebook Posts! COMMENTS Brian, Atlanta GA: "If the local stations played Christmas music like this, I'd listen to the radio a lot more." (&) "Cort's CD Showcase is what radio SHOULD be!" Katrina, VA "One of your best shows yet...I really liked the mix of music this year." Niki, TX: "You're playing great songs. I get so tired of hearing the same ones over and over on my local station." PLAYLIST 12/24/2011 noon-1p CENTRAL - wrmn 'wake-up/brad b' ID - cd showcase "song remembers when" OPENING BING CROSBY = it's beginning to look a lot like christmas ... Bing had a country hit w/the Andrew Sisters in 1944; it spent 5 weeks at #1 - cd showcase "bring to life" SEGUE - cd showcase "why haven't i heard from you" SEGUE DEBORAH ALLEN = rockin' little christmas ... Allen's songs include "Baby, I Lied", "I've Been Wrong Before" & "I Hurt For You" CHARLEY PRIDE = let it snow ... Pride's songs include "Kiss An Angel Good Morning" - cd showcase "rt 66/airwaves' nostalgic highway" SEGUE - wrmn 'facebook' PROMO ELVIS PRESLEY = blue christmas GEORGE JONES = jingle bells [sPECIAL request, my Nephew James] ... Jones' songs include "He Stopped Loving Her Today" - cd showcase "summer" SEGUE - wrmn 'dave' PROMO JERRY REED = christmas time's a coming ... Reed's songs include "East Bound & Down" & "She Got The Goldmine (I Got the Shaft)" THE COMMODORES = do you hear what i hear? - cd showcase "wheels" SEGUE - wrmn 'tradio christmas' PROMO TANYA TUCKER = what child is this? ... Tucker's songs include "What's Your Mama's Name" ROBERT DOWNEY JR = river ... From the christmas soundtrack of TV's Ally McBeal - cd showcase "dive in" SEGUE - cd showcase "life is a highway" SEGUE HANDEL'S MESSIAH = for unto us a child is born ED BRUCE = christmas started with a child [sPECIAL request, Dr. Dave, WRMN] ... Bruce's songs include "You're The Best Break This Ole Heart Ever Had"; Bruce was on TV's "Maverick", which starred James Gardner, also of "The Rockford Files" - wrmn 'super dave' PROMO - cd showcase "who's gonna fill their shoes" SEGUE MANHEIM STEAMROLLERS = deck the halls COLIN RAYE = what if jesus comes back like that? ... Raye's songs include "My Kind Of Girl" & "Little Rock" - wrmn 'dave & dave christmas/2012' PROMO - cd showcase "don't wait on me" SEGUE MORMON TABERNACLE CHOIR = here we come a caroling FRANK SINATRA - white christmas 1p-2p CENTRAL - cd showcase "broken arrow" SEGUE - wrmn 'wake-up/brad b' ID - cd showcase "song remembers when" OPENING RICKY SKAGGS & JAMES TAYLOR = new star shining - cd showcase "bring to life" SEGUE - wrmn 'dave w/music' PROMO EAGLES = please come home for christmas THE STATLER BROTHERS = no reservation at the inn ... Statler's songs include "Flowers On The Wall" - cd showcase "why haven't i heard from you" SEGUE - wrmn 'dave & dave christmas/2012' PROMO SUZY BOGGUSS = i'll be home for christmas [sPECIAL request, Ed] ... Bogguss' songs include "Drive South", "Letting Go" & "Hey Cinderalla" AMY GRANT = hark the herald angels sing - cd showcase "rt 66/airwaves' nostalgic highway" SEGUE - wrmn 'tradio christmas' PROMO THURL RAVENSCROFT = you're a mean one mr grinch DOLLY PARTON = hard candy christmas ... This song debuted on the country charts 11/06/1982, spent 17 weeks on the charts, topped at #8; Parton's songs include "I Will Always Love You" & "9 to 5" - cd showcase "summer" SEGUE - wrmn 'facebook' PROMO JOHN DENVER & THE MUPPETS = we wish you a merry christmas JOSE FELICIANO = feliz navidad - wrmn 'super dave' PROMO - cd showcase "wheels" SEGUE ALABAMA = christmas in dixie ... Alabama had a string of #1 songs in the 1980s ANDY WILLIAMS = it's the most wonderful time of the year - cd showcase "life is a highway" SEGUE - cd showcase "who's gonna fill their shoes" SEGUE BRENDA LEE = rockin' around the christmas tree [sPECIAL request, Mary, MO] GARTH BROOKS = silent night (w/1987 reference) [sPECIAL request, Cathy, IL, in memory of her son, Jason] - cd showcase "broken arrow" SEGUE - cd showcase "don't wait on me" SEGUE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA = carol of the bells [my favorite song to play w/bell choir] RONNIE MILSAP = it's christmas ... Milsap's songs include "Prisoner of the Highway", "Still Losing You" & "Stranger In My House" 2p-3p CENTRAL - wrmn 'dave' PROMO - wrmn 'wake-up/brad b' ID - cd showcase "song remembers when" OPENING JOHNNY CASH = joy to the world [sPECIAL request, Ed] ... Cash's songs include "Ring Of Fire" & "One Piece At A Time" - cd showcase "why haven't i heard from you" SEGUE - wrmn 'dave & dave christmas/2012' PROMO LACY J DALTON = silver bells ... Dalton's songs include "16th Avenue" LEE GREENWOOD = o holy night [sPECIAL request, Mike] ... Greenwood's songs include "Fool's Gold" - cd showcase "rt 66/airwaves' nostalgic highway" SEGUE - wrmn 'tradio christmas' PROMO NAT KING COLE = o come all ye faithful - cd showcase "bring to life" SEGUE - wrmn 'facebook' PROMO THE HARRY SIMEONE CHORALE = the little drummer boy TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA = christmas eve/sarajevo 12/24 [sPECIAL request, NJ WickedRides members] - cd showcase "life is a highway" SEGUE - wrmn 'dave' PROMO - cd showcase "wheels" SEGUE BARRY GORDON = nuttin' for christmas KENNY ROGERS = christmas is my favorite time of the year ... Rogers' songs include "The Gambler", "Scarlet Fever" & "20 Years Ago" - cd showcase "summer" SEGUE - wrmn 'dave' PROMO - cd showcase "who's gonna fill their shoes" SEGUE THE JUDDS = who is the babe? ... The Judds had a string of hits in the 1980s EDDIE RABBITT = have yourself a merry little christmas ... Rabbitt's songs include "Driving My Life Away" & "I Love A Rainy Night" - cd showcase "don't wait on me" SEGUE - wrmn 'dave & dave christmas/2012' PROMO - cd showcase "dive in" SEGUE ELMO'N'PATSY = grandma got run over by a reindeer SYLVIA = reflections ... Sylvia's songs include "Nobody" - wrmn 'tradio christmas' PROMO - cd showcase "broken arrow" SEGUE WILD ROSE = star of bethlehem TAMMY WYNETTE = away in a manger - wrmn 'dave & dave christmas/2012' PROMO NICOLETTE LARSEN = the greatest gift of all 3p-4p CENTRAL - wrmn 'wake-up/brad b' ID - cd showcase "song remembers when" OPENING JUICE NEWTON = christmas needs love to be christmas .. Newton's songs include "Sweetest Thing", "Queen Of Hearts" & "Angel Of The Morning" - cd showcase "why haven't i heard from you" SEGUE - wrmn 'dave' PROMO EDDY RAVEN = santa claus is coming to town why can't you? ... Raven's songs include "Joe Knows How To Live", "Bayou Boys" & "Sometimes A Lady" JOHN DENVER & THE MUPPETS = little saint nick - cd showcase "bring to life" SEGUE - wrmn 'dave & dave christmas/2012' PROMO LOUISE MANDRELL = i've got what you want for christmas ... Mandrell is Barbara Mandrell's sister OAK RIDGE BOYS = the most inconvenient christmas ... ORB's songs include "Dream On", "Elvira" & "Lucky Moon" - cd showcase "wheels" SEGUE - wrmn 'tradio christmas' PROMO THE VINCE GUARALDI TRIO = linus & lucy RAZZY BAILEY = peace on earth - cd showcase "rt 66/airwaves' nostalgic highway" SEGUE - wrmn 'facebook' PROMO HARRY BELAFONTE = mary's boy child RANDY TRAVIS = god rest ye merry gentlemen ... Travis' songs include "Hard Rock Bottom Of Your Heart", "I Told You So" & "Diggin' Up Bones" - cd showcase "summer" SEGUE - wrmn 'dave' PROMO WILLARD SCOTT = the night before christmas THE MCCARTERS = a baby just like you - cd showcase "life is a highway" SEGUE - cd showcase "who's gonna fill their shoes" SEGUE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA = we 3 kings DAVID SEVILLE & ALVIN & THE CHIPMUNKS = all i want for christmas is my 2 front teeth - cd showcase "don't wait on me" SEGUE - cd showcase "dive in" SEGUE JOHN DENVER & THE MUPPETS = 12 days of christmas [sPECIAL request, several people] - wrmn 'dave & dave christmas/2012' PROMO BURL IVES = santa claus is coming to town VONDA SHEPARD = what are you doing new year's eve ... From the christmas soundtrack of TV's Ally McBeal - wrmn 'wake-up/brad b' ID Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Welcoming in the new year" __ Vonda Shepard __ 'What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?'

*grins* So do I! Seems like just yesterday......and yet, a lifetime ago. Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "The children want to know why we hung the mistletoe" __ Ronnie Milsap __ 'It's Christmas'

* Hard to believe TwentyEleven is nearly over. What has characterized this year for you? For me... ...Blizzard: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1856562576045.2113227.1300282613&type=1&l=80bcdc8ced ...Attending cruise nights on a regular basis for the 1st time in YEARS: https://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/2011CruiseNights ...Coast-to-Coast road trip: https://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/CoastToCoastRoadTripFri06242011Mon07112011 ...Final meet'n'greets/gatherings posted/promoted: https://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/2011MeetNGreets02 ...driving my MCs less than the previous 2 years: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2118627487504.2132734.1300282613&type=1&l=f7e0236632 ...4th open heart surgery, 11/11/2011 (& 11/12/2011) ... POST-SURGERY PARTY TBD: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2636895683885.2152619.1300282613&type=1&l=7f835748ff ...nephew time (hard to believe he is 3 years old) ...deaths of a few relatives and several close friends ...witnessed 2 Chicago team "arch rivals" win respective championships (Green Bay Packers; St Louis Cardinals) ...favorable feedback received during/after my Christmas Eve radio show ...connected w/more friends/family on FB and switched up my "daily themes": Sunday Bulletin Monday Madness Tuesday Twist Wacky Wednesday Thursday Query Friday Philosophy Saturday Twin Spin/Smorgasbord ...songs (available on YouTube), not all from 2011, but heard on my road trip &/or re-discovered &/or associated with an event: One Republic ... Good Life Adele ... Someone Like You Dan Seals ... You Still Move Me (remembered b/c of Adele's "Someone Like You") Jake Owen ... Barefoot Blue Jean Night Sugarland ... Something More Jim Glaser ... Man In The Mirror Steve Wariner ... The Weekend Sawyer Brown ... This Missing You Heart Of Mine Ronnie Milsap ... Still Losing You Don Williams ... Old Coyote Town Bellamy Brothers ... Crazy From The Heart TG Sheppard ... You're Going Out Of My Mind Tom Wopat ... A Little Bit Closer John Schneider ... Take The Long Way Home Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Another year comes to a close" __ Sylvia __ 'Reflections'

* Still in "recovery mode" from my 11/11/2011 open heart surgery, I hope to have enough ENERGY to broadcast all 4 hours of my Holiday radio show. Guess we'll find out! CD SHOWCASE Christmas Eve broadcast DETAILS in 1st post or this FB EVENT: https://www.facebook.com/events/238294392906740/ I PAID the broker fee to WRMN... http://www.wrmn1410.com/ ...& re-familiarized myself with the studio & board, 12/21/2011. COMMENTS, 12/24/2009... ...Dave (twomanymontes), NY: "I was just watching the Muppets Christmas Carol last night! This is great! Now we just need to figure out how to get you a full time gig!" ...Bill, RacingOne: "You sound great, keep up the great work!!! Thanks for the show cort, nothing better to do on Christmas Eve then to listen to some great Christmas music while getting ready for Christmas!!!" & KUDOS for COMMENTS on WRMN's FB WALL, 2011... https://www.facebook.com/pages/WRMN-Radio/147178015304898 ...including... ...Anthony/Limey, IL: "I would really like Cort Stevens to host the Holiday edition of "CD SHOWCASE", 12/24/2011. I really enjoy the music and look forward to it!!" ...Kathryn S, Australia: "I'm excited to hear that Cort Stevens is doing another showcase. I live in Australia and loved listening in last year when he did his show - he 'introduced' me some music and artists that I hadn't heard before - It was a great afternoon of music!" ...Scott B, MI: "I would love to hear Cort Stevens' Holiday Showcase on your station for the third year. His show has become a holiday tradition for me and my family." ...JJ/Lisa, Las Vegas NV: "We love listening to Cort Stevens Holiday Showcase via online. Looking forward to another wonderful broadcast." MAYBE a NEW home for my regular CD SHOWCASE radio shows? http://www.wsdichicago.com/ Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Remember that fat boy, bring that kid, if you want to see New Year's Eve" __ Mona Abboud, native/resident of Sleepy Hollow IL __ 'The Pretty Little Dolly'

* ROUTE 66 STORY ... TO BE CONTINUED...! Past Christmases: Caprice Classic, 2010: Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic * Radio.HolidayCDshowcase | 12.24.2011 | Noon-4p.CENTRAL | www.wrmn1410.com * "Rockies are calling, Denver snow falling" __ Steve Wariner/Alabama __ 'Tennessee Christmas'

Indeed, Dave! MERRY CHRISTMAS and hope everyone has thrilling and safe travels the rest of this year and the coming year. I just wish I was one of the ones hitting the road sooner rather than later...! Denny and Mike ... have fun!!! Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic * Radio.HolidayCDshowcase | 12.24.2011 | Noon-4p.CENTRAL | www.wrmn1410.com * "No store bought gifts to open, but there'll be Christmas just the same" __ Kenny Rogers __ 'Kentucky Homemade Christmas'

* For the 3rd straight CHRISTMAS EVE, I will PAY (~$260 this year) to host a HOLIDAY edition of my radio show, CD SHOWCASE. Listen LIVE via... ...1410 AM, WRMN, Elgin IL ...ONLINE all across the world: http://www.wrmn1410.com (click "listen live" at the top right-hand corner) SATURDAY, 12/24/2011 1p-5p ... Eastern ... Detroit, Pittsburgh, NYC, Charlotte, Orlando, etc. Noon-4p ... CENTRAL ... St Paul, Chicago, STL, Oklahoma City, Dallas, etc. 11a-3p ... Mountain ... Boise, Salt Lake City, Cheyenne, Denver, Santa Fe, etc. 10a-2p ... Pacific ... Seattle, Portland, Reno, San Francisco, Los Angeles, etc. Like the past 2 years, I'll play a MIX of Holiday/Christmas favorites from various artists, including John Denver & The Muppets, Alabama, a handbell choir & MANY more...! Before, DURING & after the broadcast, WRITE to me via this Email: wrmnshowcase @ aol.com On Facebook? Post to WRMN's Wall that you will/are listening: https://www.facebook.com/pages/WRMN-Radio/147178015304898 Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Have a happy holiday" __ Brenda Lee __ 'Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree'

* NEW CHAPTER, RT 66 STORY I've written another chapter, #24, Surprise Meeting: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/12/16/_thats-the-highway_-15/ All chapters for _THAT'S THE HIGHWAY_, in order... ...1-4, Potential Sale; Arriving; Goodbye; Preparation: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/03/29/_thats-the-highway_/ ...5-8, The Letter; An Idea; A Return; Research & A Test: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/03/31/_thats-the-highway_-2/ ...9, The Drive & A Revelation: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/04/03/_thats-the-highway_-3/ ...10, Stall Tactic: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/04/06/_thats-the-highway_-4/ ...11-12, To Make Connections; Plans Verbalized: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/04/19/_thats-the-highway_-5/ ...13, Road Trip Rush: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/05/12/_thats-the-highway_-7/ ...14, Late Night & A Whistle: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/05/12/_thats-the-highway_-8/ ...15, Awakening: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/05/25/_thats-the-highway_-9/ ...16, Train & Memories: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/05/25/_thats-the-highway_-10/ ...17, Shopkeeper: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/06/21/_thats-the-highway_-6/ ...18-19, An Answer; Return Visit: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/08/11/_thats-the-highway_-12/ ...20, The Picture: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/10/17/_thats-the-highway_-11/ ...21, Shaping History: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/10/31/_thats-the-highway_-13/ ...22-23, Rebuilding Idea; Planning Stage: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/12/09/_thats-the-highway_-14/ DECORATED VEHICLES Story + pics of my cars... ...1979 MC Landau (1996/1997/1999) ...former 1988 MC LS (1996/1997) ...1976 MC Landau (1999) ...AND 1979 Caprice Classic (2010)... http://www.motorgnomes.com/2011/12/decorating-vehicles/ ...& I found these 3 additional examples at the Kuipers Family Farm, Maple Park IL, 12/15/2011: Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic * Radio.HolidayCDshowcase | 12.24.2011 | Noon-4p.CENTRAL | www.wrmn1410.com * "Take my way, it's the highway, that's the best" __ John Mayer __ 'Route 66'

Yep, 4th. First was November 1977, second was March 1987 and third was January 6, 2003. All 3 of these were relative to the pulmonary valve I was born without. Pig's valves used instead. This fourth one (11/11/2011) was to replace my aortic valve which had become way too large. I have a cow valve in place of my aortic valve now. More great photos from you!!! Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic * Radio.HolidayCDshowcase | 12.24.2011 | Noon-4p.CENTRAL | www.wrmn1410.com * "He came to town on a cold dark night" __ Collin Raye __ 'What If Jesus Came Back Like That?'

LOL! Now, she may have more of a social life than me! Or not. But, good to know that she isn't quite as lonely as it seemed originally. Thanks, Denny! Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic * Radio.HolidayCDshowcase | 12.24.2011 | Noon-4p.CENTRAL | www.wrmn1410.com * "It's a pudding made of figs ... and bacon" __ Gonzo to Miss Piggy/John Denver and Muppets __ 'We Wish You A Merry Christmas'

Thanks ... at least I have the energy to post ... LOL! Oooo....I like that fried chicken quote; course, the box of chocolates one isn't bad either. * 1 MORE QUOTE: "Try to look at the optimistic side of life, but be realistic enough to know that life is a complex matter." Those of us with chronic health issues and/or who've endured some type of surgery (open heart surgery, knee surgery, back surgery, etc.) know very well the difference a POSITIVE attitude can have for recovery/survival. Yet, we can lose sight of that at times, particularly when we're not feeling well or are frustrated with different aspect(s) of recovery or the financial strain or just feeling all alone. It's not always easy, and sometimes what others perceive as a "positive" attitude ... doesn't feel that way to us.... Some of what helps me keep things in perspective (including the SONG QUOTE in my sig below)... ...music ...road trips/meeting people ...writing: Charging Forth... http://www.motorgnomes.com/2011/03/charging-forth/ Sparks That Tie... http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/04/15/sparks-that-tie/ Rt 66... http://whenthegoingisgood.com/category/route66/ ..."Nephew Time": 12/06/2011 10/2010 10/16/2011 11/05/2011 11/05/2011 ..."Car Time": L-R = 1979 Caprice Classic, 1972 MC, 1976 MC L-R = 1979 MC, 1981 MC, 1987 MC WHAT KEEPS THINGS IN PERSPECTIVE FOR YOU? Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Happiness is something we create" __ Sugarland __ 'Something More'

* ROUTE 66 STORY I've written a couple more sections, #s 22 & 23: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/12/09/_thats-the-highway_-14/ Entire story here: http://whenthegoingisgood.com/category/route66/ HOLIDAY DECOR More (+ pics) here: http://www.motorgnomes.com/2011/12/decorating-vehicles/ So, how 'bout it? Do you decorate your vehicle(s) for the holidays? If so, how? And, what is the oddest and/or most-creative vehicle decoration you've seen? Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Maybe I'll drive so far they'll all lose track" __ Dolly Parton __ 'Hard Candy Christmas'

*nods* Thank you, Dave! I'm trying ... . * FINALLY! I'm starting to get a BIT more energy ... and finding some comfortable sitting/sleeping positions, even with the pulled/aggravated muscle near/at my left breast. Slowly, but surely, despite the frustrations ... and hopefully soon will DO a few things.... My next APPOINTMENTS... ...12/22/2011 w/regular doctor (PCP) ...01/05/2012 w/cardiologist, including an echocardiogram & pacemaker check I doubt I will have a POST-SURGERY PARTY; too much with the holidays and returning to work. My Aunt Chris and I finished a puzzle she gave me for my OHS in 2 afternoons, 11/30/2011 & 12/09/2011. "Winter" side of the puzzle, w/clockwise, Fall, Summer & Spring: Also on 12/09/2011, Aunt Chris, Uncle Carl and I went for a walk in Hawthorne Hill Nature Center, Elgin IL. Pics I took there can be seen (whether you are on Facebook or not) w/other OHS-related photos, including my PRE-SURGERY PARTY; the Nature Center walk pics are the last 5: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2636895683885.2152619.1300282613&type=1&l=7f835748ff I've appreciated VISITS from friends... ...12/04/2011 = Jonny, who drove his 1978 Ford LTD Country Squire wagon to take me for a cruise: ...12/05/2011 = Drew, who was in town on business from Pittsburgh PA: ...and, of course, "Nephew Time", pic from 12/06/2011: Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "When you kiss your little baby, you've kissed the face of God" __ Kenny Rogers/Wynonna __ 'Mary, Did You Know?'

Woops ... sorry! OHS = open heart surgery. Just had my 4th, 11/11/2011! Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Yuletide carols being sung by a choir" __ Nat King Cole __ 'The Christmas Song'

Wow ... that does look a bit ... lonely. BUT ... it does sound as if this is a safer place to actually visit up close and personal.... Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "My world is changing" __ Faith Hill __ 'Where Are You Christmas?'

LOL! Yeah, Dave, I'm not known for my short posts, am I? I know it doesn't look like it, but I try to keep 'em short'n'to the point. Problem is ... the shorter I try to make them, the longer they become. Irony rocks! Awe, thank you, Denny! * It feels good to still be among the living; guess I'm here for a reason. Now, I just need more energy, sooner rather than later! Course, more energy means less "online" time.... It'd also be nice if I could find some COMFORTABLE sitting/sleeping positions.... DRIVING ... RETURNS 12/12/2011...! Oh, how nice that'll be! FOLLOW-UPs My parents and I endured the Monday-morning-after-Thanksgiving rush hour traffic to go to my checkups at Chicago's Northwestern Memorial Hospital, 11/28/2011. The chest Xrays and EKG showed all well. I also met with Dr Russell's nurse practitioner, Amy, and my cardiologist, Dr. Mendelson. Both said that I looked good for all I've been through and that everything seems to be healing well. KUDOS As I mentioned, I don't think any quantity or quality of time is sufficient for me to express my appreciation for all the support through this latest OHS. But, a special thank you to 2 groups in particular. 1st Generation Monte Carlo Club... ...started an online card for me, which was shared w/other message boards: http://www.groupcard.com/s/CyMQyBizahW/ee&ec=lpEbc5Zit0I ...AND sent a care package, including a smiley face mug, 2 cookies & a few other candy treats! Hot Seat, formerly CarNuts... ...sent balloons for my PRE-SURGERY PARTY and a box of chocolates. It was supposed to be a surprise, but Steve had to call me the day of the party because the delivery was made in the morning, when the people that knew about the party were not at the restaurant! It all worked out...! UPDATES As in 2003, my sister kept people posted about the progress of my surgery. This time, she sent Emails AND posted updates to my Facebook wall. For me, it's surreal reading through some of them (noted times are central/Chicago).... 11/11/2011 SURGERY: RETURN TO OR, ~24 HOURS LATER: Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "I can't stay on your morphine, cause it's making me itch" __ Pink __ 'Just Like A Pill'

Indeed, it was, thank you! Lots of "nephew time" ... which has helped the recovery from OHS tremendously!!!! Another great shot. Really enjoy your pics. Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "It's snowing in the pines" __ Alabama __ 'Christmas In Dixie'

* WORD MATH: Not having enough energy + drugs = too much thinking time My energy level is starting to increase (as evidenced by a 3-day stretch where I had 2 days of "Nephew Time" and 1 day "out" at my Aunt/Uncle's house for the midday hours), so I can HOPEFULLY get a few things done soon, before I go to work in about a month. Which also means ... less "online" time. It's not good to wonder "what if" OR torture oneself with "if I only knew then what I know now" OR consider what you might do given a "do over" chance. Yet, sometimes the mind just wanders to those ... and it's hard to stop it, particularly when the drugs are doing most of the talking. I don't have any regrets, per se, though I could name things I'd do differently or just DO, for that matter, if given the opportunity. AND, it's NO secret that I'm unhappy with the financial strain my health issues have me in, perhaps for my entire life, but I do the best I can.... One of the more frustrating questions an interviewer asks is, "Where do you see yourself in 5 years?" I've no idea. I'm not even where I'd thought I'd be when I envisioned my life 10 years down the road, back when I was in college, some 15 years ago now. Irony rocks! Even though my life isn't like I thought it'd be by this age, perhaps I'm where I'm supposed to be. But, that isn't much comfort when I look at the lives of my peers and see how much "farther" along they are, than I am. But, maybe we are all just as far along as each other ... just taking different paths. That sounds better, at least. I know (and have been "preaching") that LIFE IS TOO SHORT, but even I lose sight of that sometimes. I have so much on my list of WANT TO DOs, but not enough time OR energy OR money to actually DO all, let alone some, of that list ... a very frustrating situation. And, that doesn't include hopes and dreams.... Also ... now that my "big heart" is gone ... I'm not taking crap from companies OR people, especially companies. Flame wars? Life is too short, or is that not through your THICK SKULLS yet? Untruthful slogans? We have laws against false advertising, so why aren't slogans included? IGNORED technicalities and facts are NOT acceptable, either. And, yes, we DID start the fire.... Who knows what life will cook up next. I'll just keep moving along as best as possible, hopefully traveling the road less taken while laughing and having "too much fun" along the way. How about you? FEW MORE QUOTES: "You roll with the bad, you savor the good. It is the waiting that is the hardest part." "With so much stress and hurry in the world, smiles and kindnesses go a long way." "Happiness looks small while you hold it in your hands, but let it go, and you learn at once how big and precious it is." "We must slow down to a human tempo, and we’ll begin to have time to listen." "You begin to move mountains when you start carrying away small stones." "The best/most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or touched; they must be felt within the heart." "Don't spend so much time trying to choose the perfect opportunity, that you miss the right opportunity." "You will never get ahead if you spend all your time trying to get even." "Pressing harder on the remote when you know the battery is dead will not bring the battery back to life." "Cherished happy moments make a fine cushion for old age." "Everybody is nobody to somebody." "I'm not sure if I have a clear conscience or a bad memory, or maybe the drugs are talking...." "When something doesn't work out the way you thought/hoped, see it as something that went unexpectedly well, but for reasons that are not yet apparent." "Winning does not always mean coming in first; real victory is arriving at the finish line with no regrets because you know you’ve gone all out." "I'd bet, on any given Friday or Saturday night, more kisses begin with alcohol instead of Kay." Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Maybe next year I'll give it to someone special" __ WHAM! __ 'Last Christmas'