RA1

They left out a few such as, should the scout master lead the boys in a circle jerk? What is the real role of the scout master and who are the slaves? Basically the whole thing is a version of, have you quit beating your wife, gf, bf or so? Lukerspeaks suggestion would certainly open a few eyes, I am sure. Best regards, RA1

I can't load "flirt for free" from this site which I am all but positive is my firewall or other "protection" not set by me correctly. I have just not bothered to "fix" it after installing new software. This or something like this may be your problem. Best regards, RA1

I am not in favor of awarding any "combat" medals to operators of drones unless they are actually in close proximity to the "battlefield" and in imminent physical danger. "E" for efficiency or the like, if deserved, but nothing more. Best regards, RA1

Like everthing else, perception it paramount. How would you characterize (in many years past) a household servant who also had children out of wedlock or in any case with the owner of the house. Was that master-slave? In some cases, yes, in other cases, mutual attraction that "got out of hand" but the household generally was still maintained with the wife and childen. Many other variations possible. I have never had a house boy but I can easily imagine a young man hired to do house hold chores being paid a salary + room + board and sometimes or often that proceeding into a sexual relationship of some sort. Eventually this was formalized into the "houseboy" job description. However how the various members viewed and participated whatever transpired would be individual decisions and, of course, as previously described, nowdays, something "better" discussed in advance. Suppose you had a college student who was living in your house with room and board. In exchange he agreed to do some light household chores. Now suppose you struck a "new" deal that involved him being "more friendly" with you and you now paid him for taking care of things. Does that make him an escort? Again, it depends upon how each of you view the situation and how prehistoric your attitudes are. There are so many variation and permutations of these kinds of situations it boggles the mind. Best regards, RA1

My barber had a "cozy" knitted like this by his gf but in his size. It remained a conversation piece in his shop for many years. Best regards, RA1

These kinds of arguements and suppostitions have been at the forefront ever since the invention of weapons that can kill from afar. Probably the most powerful and recent is the atomic bomb being dropped from a flying aircraft. However, the B-29, the Enola Gay, that dropped the first A-bomb was still at risk from the Japanese aircraft or anti-aircraft artillery. I have no idea that the operators of drones are at risk from any others except possibly terrorists or sereptitious foes. Likely they go home to their families every night. I have personally known several survivors of WWII as well as the Korean Police Action and the Viet Nam conflcit, among others. I feel very sad for those among them who are suffering from PTS or the like. I think this is a "real" problem. However, many have managed to put aside their difficulties with being in conflict. They are not unmarked but they have dealt with whatever demons have tried to invade their psyches. I applaud them for the effort and result. We all are the products of our life experiences and have to deal with them however. Some are more difficult than others. I can only offer comfort and sympathy for those who are having difficulty dealing with their demons. Best regards, RA1

But what does the back of the hotel look like? I am thinking of a time when I was in Bangkok and looked out of the back of my hotel and saw what I assume was an apartment of several stories filled with locals. The only problem that I could observe from a distance was that there was no wall on the side of the building that was facing my hotel room. In other words I was looking into the living area of many apartments or rooms in that building. I was not close enough to observe activities but was a little nonplussed by what I could see. I have no idea if this was very poor folks or something that was quite normal in BKK. The weather was quite warm so they were in no danger of being cold and they were pretty much sheltered from rain and the like but it was still a bit bizarre to see this sight. I did and now only wish them well. Best regards, RA1

Does that make her a lesbian? Best regards, RA1

Are you expecting that Lucky is lurking and will PM you? He "signed off" of this site some time ago, although as mentioned at the time he is welcome back at any time. Best regards, RA1

I am excited thinking about what you will do with your "hands down". Best regards, RA1

One reason most aircraft have two pilots is so the captain has someone else to "blame". Best regards, RA1

I am going to have to teach you how to pan. I know you don't treat your boys like this. However, thanks for the pix. Best regards, RA1

NP. The reason that happened is because very often I have to start a post, enter it and then edit it to finish it. That is because it many times will not post, just stall in mid-ether, unless I do it that way. Best regards, RA1

Indeed this is scary. Not only does the "automatic" system "drive" the car like a little old lady but it seemingly abuses such as the tires by turning the wheel when the car is stationary. Basically only possible with power steering and very hard on the tires. What exactly is the advantage of having the car drive off to a parking spot on its' own and what is the cost for that technology? I suppose one of the broader questions is who should drive and under what circumstances? Most of us look upon driving as a right when it is a privilege. I am not trying to remove this privilege from anyone, only upgrading our ability to use it. If we removed those from the roadway that had many tickets or other infractions obtained from driving their cars, the roads would be fairly free of traffic for those among us who are careful and without legal restrictions. Of course, this would reduce the amount of fuel burned and eventually reduce the price thereof. How bad would that be? Best regards, RA1

Who is my lackey? Obviously you understand almost nothing about airlines or aviation but that is your perogerative as an ignorant poster. Here is my advice to you so that you can remain happy. Don't fly. Don't travel on any American transporatation venues. In fact, just stay home and live your life out without any regard for having adventure or fun. That also is your perogerative. I wish you well but please keep your negative opinions to yourself. Best regards, RA1

The "problem" with this cocktail recipe is it is OK for a "starter" but NOT a cure for a "real" hangover. If one would triple, at least, the recipe, then one might be on the road for a "cure". Best regards, RA1

The picture reminds me of a local story. A local pilot had a tiger that he kept in his home. That was mostly his business until and unless he had invited guests over for one reason or another. One of my friends and frequent fliers in my aircraft once went to this house for a visit. Upon entering he was immediately "mauled" by the tiger but in a very friendly way. I suppose it was friendly. I am not so sure about being "greeted" by the in house tiger upon entering a friend's house. However, everyone survived although there was conversation about not going there again. LIkely a smart alternative. Best regards, RA1

Great report. For some reason, it reminded me of the Hotel Atlantis on Iraklion, Crete. A nice place (several years ago) to stop for rest when flying around the world. It offered reasonable rates and rooms + fairly fast and reasonable laundry service (something required by now). The in house restaurant offered one price meals (included) where I (as always willing to try new things) was offered squid for lunch. I was doing OK until one squid decided to extract revenge and squirted purple ink all over my clean white shirt. That ended that meal. The best part of this hotel was the rooftop bar which not only had a swimming pool (and bar) but also a magnificient view of the harbor to include cannons placed thereon by previous governments. It also provided a very nice afternoon breeze to complement your afternoon drink. Best regards, RA1

Is the "huh" for me? Best regards, RA1

One needs to be paid for one's work, not only so one can "continue" the economic cycle (pay one's bills) but also as a guage of how others feel about what one is doing or trying to do. Whether music and other performing arts should be available "free" (included in the taxes most pay) or not is an entirely different question. I have observed and enjoyed many "street performers" over the years and while their performances are free to any and all who so choose, they will not survive without some form of either compensation or "welfare". If I stopped to watch, I always contributed I hope in accordance with my enjoyment thereof but always a contribution of some amount. I have seen some amazing performers to include "statues" and one very memorable "cat show" where the cats jumped through flaming hoops. I consider this very "uncatlike" activity and was suitably favorably impressed. Regardless, as mentioned before, I always contribute. As BBB suggests, I find it "unusual" when those who have no economic needs suggest that others who do follow their life pattern. Best regards, RA1

gloats- I fully realize this so called request is a version of have you quit beating your wife or bf or so. Therefore I shall not usurp your right to use Google and form your own opinion however wrongly you may interpret the facts. Fortunately Boeing has not so far had a "Comet" to come out of their factories. I suppose my question to you is, will you fully admit how wrong you were when the 787 flies and is successful? Best regards, RA1

And, all this time I thought running around barefoot as a kid and getting stung periodically by bees was a negative. Amazing what we continue to discover and hopefully use for our benefit. Thanks for providing this thread. Best regards, RA1

The Valsalva Maneuver is the one I prefer to use to "clear my ears" when flying or they otherwise do not equalize. This involves holding your nose and very gently blowing. For some reason some people are unable to learn how to do this; for others it seems to come naturally. This has always worked for my ears even if I have the beginnings of a cold or some such and it can be used repeatedly as necessary. It may not work on stopped up sinuses. There are several other methods but I find chewing gum and the like to not be effective. However, whatever works for you should be continued. lookin- You are prefectly welcome to use my "line". You have already given me credit for it. Best regards, RA1

It really sucks to be out of the country and ill. I once spent 3 days in a bath tub in Glascow when some hemorrhoids were acting up. But, that treatment worked and I then went on to Iceland. Any chance you could continue your journey by land? If you ran into any ill mannered passengers on the train or bus, you could breathe on them and get at least some revenge. Otherwise, rest and get well. Best regards, RA1

I hope you don't mind if I retire to my 1960 bomb shelter. Best regards, RA1