Arriving by train, we got on at the end of the line in Poughkeepsie, and took it to the other end. It was about 10:30 when we disembarked at Grand Central Station. It was the first off-peak train that morning and it wasn't particularly crowded.

Jeromy commented that people don't make eye contact. I said, "It's something I've noticed too." "Well, people like to keep to themselves," commented Ali, "it's rare for someone to meet your gaze. I don't think people are being unfriendly; it's more of a protection mechanism."

We didn't have an agenda for this trip; we just thought it would be fun to walk around. Ali said, "What do you guys think about heading over to Rockefeller Center? I thought it might be fun to ice skate. And we could always do the Top of the Rock; I've never been up there." "I'll do whatever you guys want," Jeromy piped in, "I'm the one visiting." "Lead the way," I said. We started making our way to 5th avenue. I quickly donned my orange North Face beanie and buttoned my coat. The wind was cutting through the buildings making for a very chili morning.

My brother finally came to visit late last month. It was a quick trip; he got in late Wednesday night and left Sunday afternoon. Thursday we just hung out around the house, and did some chores, like stacking firewood.

Friday was Ali's birthday; Ali and I took the day off and we all went to The City. We went to the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center (it was our first time doing this). There is an amazing view of Manhattan, but in particular of Central Park. I want to go back in the summer and fall with a good camera to try to get some good shots of the park.

Saturday we went skiing at Belleayre Mountain which is about 5 minutes from Ali's Mom & Dad's house.

Sunday we went over to the PT clinic and Ali did traction on Jeromy's back, and she gave him some exercises to do to try and make it feel better.

After lunch I drove him back to the Airport.

View the photo album for this entry.

I've really had an urge to write lately, but somehow I keep squandering all of my free time (usually doing nothing).

Ali has recently started another class at UIndy, and now she is spending her evenings studying, so maybe that'll be the catalyst I need to actually sit down and do something.

I realize my biggest problem is I'm lazy. Writing is not something I'm good at in the first place, which means it requires even more work than most things. It usually comes down to concerted effort just to produce something that I usually consider mediocre.

All of that is to say: I'm sorry for the lack of content, but I am just too lackadaisical to get over that hump. I am actively thinking about how I can get over, or around this impediment -- I usually think of something sooner or later ...

Hulbert named vice president of Anniston market for Wachovia Gabe Hulbert has been named Wachovia’s new vice president and community banker in Anniston.

Hulbert has more than eight years of experience in the financial services industry; most recently he served as a financial specialist in Atlanta, Ga.

"As a native of Anniston, Gabe understands the needs of local customers," said Jim Robbins, Anniston market president for Wachovia. "Gabe brings a broad background in both commercial and retail banking to his new role and will deliver the full range of Wachovia’s products and services to the Anniston community."

Hulbert is a graduate of the Anniston High School and received his bachelor’s degree in business and economics from Auburn University. He is a certified accredited asset management specialist through the College for Financial Planning.

He and his wife, Jana Hanvey Hulbert, also of Anniston, are actively involved in a number of community organizations, including the Georgia Green Industry Association, Johns Creek Baptist Church, the American Cancer Society and the North Fulton Community Charities.

- Matthew Korade

Source: Anniston Star, 20060203